#well at least I got some sea tea-

[rabbitvixencowgirl]

(Oh credit for boxes go to the website Demirramon, Tarabi's sprites were designed by me! :D)

[moonstruckme]

Hi! I was wondering if you could do poly!marauders with a clumsy s/o? Thank you!

Thanks for requesting love!

cw: blood

poly!marauders x fem!reader ♡ 1.4k words

“I’m going to purchase one of those leashes for unruly toddlers,” James says, thick lashes nearly touching as he squints down at your hand. “And I’m going to keep it around my wrist at all times.” 

“It won’t be as good at catching me as you are,” you point out. You do your best not to wince as he picks a piece of gravel out of your palm, but his eyes flick up to you anyway, an apology in them. 

“No, but at least I’ll be able to keep you close.” 

You laugh a little. “I trip whether you’re nearby or not.” 

“Beg to differ.” He sounds bitter, but James has always had a terrible poker face and the uptilt of his lips betrays him. He spreads ointment over the cuts on your hand before bandaging it. “If I was with you, this would’ve never happened. Guaranteed.” 

“Yes, it’s all your fault.” Remus comes in from the kitchen, maneuvering carefully so as not to get the hot mug he’s carrying anywhere near James. He sets it next to your thigh on the bathroom counter. “Jamie,” his tone is chiding, a bit tired, “why have you started with her hands? She’s bleeding down to her ankles.” 

“It’s nearly dried anyway,” you say, looking down at your shredded knees. Remus feels too bad for you to give you one of his worse reprimanding looks, but his eyes convey tremendous exasperation nonetheless. 

“Because I knew she’d need her hands to hold her tea,” James replies, bumping Remus’ hip lightly with his. “Ease up, I’ve got it. Did you make yourself some tea too?” 

Remus glances towards the kitchen the way an old captain might gaze at the sea. “I thought about it…” 

“Do that,” James says. He finishes up with your other hand, bandaging it carefully. “Actually, would you mind just putting a kettle on? I’ll have a cup, and Sirius might want one too.” 

You frown at that, but neither of your boyfriends see, Remus going into the kitchen with renewed purpose and James smiling slightly to himself as he finishes wrapping your hand. 

“One of these days,” he whispers, backing up a bit so he can work on your knees, “you’re going to have to sit on the couch and feed Remus chocolates for all you put his heart through. We’ll be lucky if the next time you fall he doesn’t have an attack.” 

“What’s Sirius coming here for?” you ask. 

“Well, he does live here.” 

You give him a look, but he doesn’t glance up from cleaning the blood off your shin. “He’s supposed to be shopping with Marlene.” Accusation and betrayal line your words. “You texted him?” 

James looks up at you now, sympathetic if not quite sorry. “You know I had to. He would’ve murdered me if he’d come home and seen you all bandaged up and nobody had told him.” 

“You could take him,” you grumble. 

He laughs. “I don’t know, sweetheart. He fights dirty.” 

You laugh too, though it’s more a humorous huff. “He can’t come home every time I trip,” you say, twisting the string of your tea bag around your index finger. “It’s not like I need to go to the hospital.” 

James works a larger piece of gravel out of your knee, eyebrows knit together by compassion. “He worries,” he says simply. “He wants to come home every time you hurt yourself, though if you recall, I didn’t tell anyone about you banging your head on the microwave door yesterday, or about when you fell on the stairs last week.” He looks up, grinning when you shrink, abashed. “But when you fall this bad, it’s a bit harder to hide. Sorry, lovie.” 

It’s a double apology, for ratting you out and for the sting of the ointment he smears over your knee. You hiss through your teeth. “Fair enough,” you say. James smooths a large band-aid over the series of shallow cuts, kissing the skin just above it for good measure. “I just don’t like to worry him. Any of you, if I can help it.” 

He shrugs. “I don’t think you can,” he says. You get what he means. Remus is a worrier, Sirius even more so, protective by nature and nurture. And each of your boyfriends cares about you too much to ignore how often you hurt yourself, even if you really think they should be desensitized to it and annoyed with you by now. “But I’m trying to get you cleaned up before he sees you, so hopefully that’ll help.” 

Like James has just issued a summons, the rumble of Sirius’ bike comes from outside. James grimaces as it slows to a stop. 

“I hate that fucking thing,” Remus growls from the kitchen. 

James shoots a sad smile in that direction. You think that you might not single-handedly cause Remus’ heart attack if Sirius gets there first. 

“Where is she?” Sirius calls as soon as he comes in the door. “I assume there’s a blood trail for me to follow?” 

James chuckles. “I told you it wasn’t that grim,” he shouts down the hall, and a second later there are heavy footsteps coming toward you. You brace yourself. 

“Fucking hell.” He halts just in the threshold of the bathroom, then seems to change his mind, striding over to you. His eyes are glued to the bloody mess of your uncovered knee. “Darling, what did you do?” 

You knew what to expect from him, and still your voice comes out smaller than you mean it to. “I missed the curb going out to get the mail,” you say. 

Sirius’ eyes lift to yours, widening. “You fell into the road?” You nod. “You could’ve been hit by a car!”

“There weren’t any cars.” There are almost never any cars on your street, and he knows that. 

“You’re lucky there weren’t,” he says anyway, holding his hand out. You place one of yours in it obediently, palm up. There’s a bit of blood marring the beige bandage, and Sirius makes a terribly soft pitying sound. “Your poor, lovely hands.” He runs a careful finger over the covering. “How bad was it?” he asks James.

“I told you, not horrific,” James says, finishing with getting the debris out of your knee and twisting the cap off the ointment. He looks up to be sure you’re ready before he starts smoothing it on.

“Stitches?” 

“Oh, tons. She’s held together more by thread than skin at this point.” 

You roll your eyes, but Sirius coos, “My poor sweetheart,” and grabs hold of your face to plant a kiss on your lips. You must look as pleasantly surprised as you feel, because he does it again, bending forward to avoid bumping his hip into your knee. 

His thumb sweeps across your cheek as he pulls away, brows furrowed. “Does it hurt?” he asks, and now the mirth has disappeared from his tone. You don’t know how Sirius does that, going from teasing to not in a blink. 

“Not so badly,” you tell him. 

He hums, stroking your face again. “Would you tell me if it did?” 

You feel your lips twitch, and Sirius’ eyes narrow like he knows your answer before you’ve spoken. “Probably not,” you admit, “but it really doesn’t.” 

He stares you down for a minute, murky eyes scanning yours for traces of untruth, his dark brows lowered. You reach up to slot a piece of hair behind his ear, and he cracks, mouth kicking up at the corner. 

“Alright, drink your tea before it gets cold.” 

“I’ve actually made tea for everyone,” Remus calls, not from the kitchen this time but from the living room. “And snacks, so please come eat them.” 

James grins, touch moving up the back of your knee to your thigh as he stands. “Excellent,” he says eagerly. “You’re all fixed up, m’love. Let’s go take care of Rem now.” 

You start to hop down from the counter, but Sirius says, “Wait, wait!” and grabs you by the hips, keeping you in place. “Can you walk?” 

You nod, because duh, your legs are scraped, not broken, but Sirius looks to James, the both of them frowning thoughtfully. 

“Best not to risk reopening them,” James decides, scooping you up off the counter. 

You huff a laugh, rolling your eyes. “Thank you,” you say, rather than this is deeply unnecessary and you’re being ridiculous. James seems to hear both anyway, planting a sloppy, smiley kiss on your cheek. Sirius, satisfied, follows you down the hall. “I didn’t mean to make you my manservant, I swear.” 

“Happy to do it,” he says. “Now drink your tea, it’ll make Rem feel better.”

[jrreigns]

Letters from the Other Side

The sea washes over the sides of the steamship, taking with it the algae stuck to it. You almost hope the waves can take you with it, the nerves getting the better of you as you leant over the rail. Come see me, you read the letter over and over again, your stomach fluttering, I want to see you.

CW: Post-war Levi x fem!reader, civilian!reader

A/N: Some post-war Levi goodness after the angst I’ve posted this past month. ~2.5k words of fluff and romance. If this does well, I’ll probably write the super romantic smut next.

Credit to @cafekitsune for the dividers!

Three years after the Rumbling and things were starting to return to a sense of normalcy in the Stohess district. At least as normal as things can get when the twisted mentality of the Yeagerists and their seizing control of the military dominated the news. Your mother and father tell you not to worry, but you’ve been worried ever since the walls disappeared and the Survey Corps regiment disbanded.

Or rather, you have only really been worried over a single person, the man with the raven locks and the dull gray eyes, dull eyes that glittered when you spoke to him. You were still a woman, and a woman has intuition for those sorts of things like attraction, and Captain Levi couldn’t help how flustered he got whenever he saw you. Your father was the owner of a blacksmith company, and you often bumped into Levi along with Commander Smith several times a month.

Humanity’s strongest, you’d think in awe, where you had imagined a big brute, now you saw the man for what he was.

Why’d he come along was always unknown to you, but as your father and the commander spoke privately in another room, you offered small conversation and tea while he waited. Where small talk began, somehow a deep appreciation for the other bloomed, and the visits began to feel like the visits of the suitors that bombarded your home on occasion. He’d gift you single flowers, it’s all I can afford, he’d say meagerly. You’d thank him with a kiss on the cheek each and every time. And each and every time a ferocious tinge of red would adorn his face.

The timing never seemed to be right with either of you, it always seemed like when one was ready to take the leap, the other had other obligations waiting. Wait for me, were his selfish last words to you and you nodded your head as you gave him a final good-bye.

It had already been three years. You were already on the cusp of giving up.

It had been a nice breezy morning when you received his first letter. The unfamiliar stamps had caught both you and your parents off-guard, but nonetheless they gave you the privacy to open it. There, in the small garden of your home, tears welled up in your eyes as you skimmed through it.

It was a letter from Captain Levi.

Or rather Levi, just Levi, as the letter so said. I have told them to stop calling me captain, but these brats never learn. You giggled inwardly at his words, tears welling up in your eyes. You read it one more time, much slower this time, familiarizing yourself with his handwriting, the slant in his letters, his signature, everything. You familiarized yourself with the names Gabi and Falco, children you did not know but instantly loved with the way they cared for Levi.

At the very bottom, a hopeful wish that you will respond, signed next to his name.

Of course you will.

Your father stood confused as you gathered parchment and a pen to write, finding it odd that his moody daughter was suddenly so lively. Perhaps it’s the engagement, he thought, and let you be.

Your ring twinkled under the summer sun, and yet nothing has caused more glee than the very letter you were responding to. You wrote about the situation in Paradis, you wrote about the kindness of the queen, and you wrote about how business was booming for your father, despite the war having been over. The thought saddened you, but you quickly sign the letter and add a note that you excitedly await his next letter.

It’s not that you fail to mention your engagement, rather some deep part of you didn’t want to mention it. Your betrothed was a good man, hand picked by your father, you had accepted to keep his worries at bay that you wouldn’t end up husbandless and with no children.

How quickly Levi’s letters can have you questioning your familiar duties.

We restored some of the land ruined by the war, Levi writes, many foreigners are starting to settle here again.

You can’t help the sense of admiration that fills you up. It filled you up when he’d visit with the commander, and it still filled you up now. A military man, you wonder if he’s still as strong as when you met him. Humanity’s strongest, you wondered if he still thought about you and the flowers he’d gift you.

I’d like to visit it one day, you write, perhaps a change of scenery would be nice. All this yeagerist talk has me going mad.

I’d like to visit you one day, you will yourself to write, but you don’t. You had been lovestruck years ago, perhaps the captain no longer harbored the same feelings. Perhaps the captain has found someone new, perhaps the captain has married.

Sadness consumes you. After all, you were just friends back then, right?

You trash your letter and write a plainer one instead. It hadn’t even reached half a page when you sealed it, wrote his address on the front of it and set it aside for the postman to pickup tomorrow.

“Honey,” you can hear your mother call, “James is here to see you.” You force your best smile to greet your husband-to-be.

It’s weeks before the next letter arrives. The pretty orange and red tree leaves were beginning to fall, a cozy chill running through the district. Your wedding preparations were already underway when the postman calls out to you, a single letter in his hands, the stamps it bore already familiar to you.

More talk of restoration, recovery, Gabi and Falco’s shenanigans, when finally you reach the last bit of the letter. I don’t mean to bother you, Levi writes, your last letter felt abrasive. I understand if things have changed. Everything has changed.

You wonder what goes through Levi’s mind when he writes to you.

No, things have not changed. Things still felt the same, at least they did to you. Still, you couldn’t ignore your engagement anymore as you saw your mother debate through wedding ribbons in the distance and you finally will yourself to write and tell him the news.

I’m engaged, it feels awful to write it, my engagement is a long one, though, and so I’m sorry if the letter was short. I must’ve been busy.

You write of other things, of the rising tension amongst good folks like your family who didn’t want to fuel another war, and the yeagerists. You write of how the talks of peace by the ambassadors (who you found out were actually part of the same regiment as him) were falling on deaf ears.

I’d like to see you, you finally write, I’d like to see what the other side looks like.

You add the last bit in a final moment of hesitation, sign your name and set it aside, a deep breath falling from your lips.

“You’re changing the wedding date again, and to a later date might I add,” your father bellows out to you.

“Father, please,” you reply, exasperated, trying to escape the dining room and into your own, a new letter in hand, “I will get married in time, what’s the rush?”

“The rush is that you’re not young anymore, I beg you to reconsider.”

You shut the door behind you, shaky fingers coming to pry the letter open. You force yourself to read slowly, absorbing every single inked word coming from Levi’s fingertips.

You skip his polished words of annoying governmental policies being implemented on his side and go straight to the heart of the letter, his real response to you.

Congratulations on your engagement, he begins, I’m surprised you haven’t even married yet.

That? That is what he has to say? You scoff, a slight irritation blooming.

I don’t look like before—I’ve lost an eye and my right hand is destroyed, his letter continues, I look awful.

I’m not humanity’s strongest anymore.

You don’t know why these words strike you deeply. Years and a great distance separate you from what Levi is or was for that matter, yet it isn’t Levi’s exterior that ever affected you in the first place. It was the small talks and the small gifts, it was his tinged cheeks and his intrepid way of speaking around your people who have only seen the refined things in life.

You could never look awful to me, you write in your response, a wave of heat flaring up on your cheeks, you’re just trying to get me not to go.

Levi’s letters continue well into the deeper part of winter, the leaves have long since fallen, snow beginning to gather amongst the branches. The winters where he lived were harsh, and he writes of how they were causing the ache in his knee to worsen. You spend some of your money to send him some ointment you purchased from a local medic.

He writes to you of how the snow reminds him of when the Survey Corps would serve hot chocolate on the off chance. You send him chocolate you bargain off a local vendor.

The signs of Levi’s homesickness don’t escape you, even if he doesn’t admit it.

I could send you Stohess’s entire stock of goods if I can, you respond to his letters of thanks.

What would I do with all that, he responds to yours, breaking you into a fit of silent laughter.

I’ve missed your awful humor, you write casually. You wonder if you should trash this letter and begin a new one, but you don’t. I’ve missed you, you finish writing.

The budding roses in your garden remind you of your predicament.

“As much as I respect you,” James begins, “I won’t accept any other change to the wedding. If you won’t marry me then I’ll find someone who will.”

You comprehend his irritation, even if you don’t fully understand it.

He leaves you on your garden bench, exiting through the gate, just in time for the postman to arrive. Your feelings don’t subside, in fact they linger as you read Levi’s next letter.

Upon opening it, nervousness hits you as you see just how short the letter is. Policy change, annoying policy change.

The ambassadors have told me that postage to Paradis will be barred soon. Your eyes widen. Despite the nice spring breeze, your body suddenly feels so cold.

If I don’t hear from you again, I wanted to wish you a happy marriage. Your eyes well with tears, but it’s his next words that move you.

Unless you change your mind. Come see me. I want to see you. Just as you’re about to trash the envelope, a small flower catches your eye. It was dried up and rather lonely, but you hold it close to you as small tears slip down your cheeks.

The next morning, you try to give the postman your next letter but he just shakes his head in response.

“Apologies ma’am, the military has ordered a full stop for all international mail.” You thank him anyway, despite how distraught you feel.

Your wedding is within two weeks. The white dress in the corner of your room haunts you. Although lace with spring flowers were added to match the season, it only made it look like the kind of dress you wore on your deathbed.

There was no more rescheduling your wedding date, there were no more letters to look forward to, you could only look over the last letter, his final request.

You longed for Levi. Did he long for you?

Come see me, I want to see you.

Despite the spring air, a heat that resembled summer humidity burned through you.

“It’s a one way trip if you decide to head to the other side,” the hefty man tells you, “military has barred all incoming and outgoing mail, I wouldn’t be surprised if they bar incoming ships soon.”

This was it, the point of no return. You had written your last letter addressed to your parents—an apology for doing what you are doing. No, your heart hasn’t seized its rampant beating since Levi’s last letter. You need to see him.

You board without much of a glance back.

For days, sea sickness threaten to put a damper on your good (albeit nervous) mood, your only fuel the letters stored in your small suitcase, rereading them every night as the darkness of the ocean tormented you.

Finally, the crewmen announce that you will be arriving in the morning. The sun was setting off in the horizon—you clutched his last letter as you take a brief moment to absorb this feeling of resilience that surged through you. You’d get to see Levi soon, you’ve waited enough. Here, near the rails of the ship, you long for him, nerves filling your stomach.

The sea washes over the sides of the steamship, taking with it the algae stuck to it. You almost hope the waves can take you with it, the nerves getting the better of you as leant over the rail. Come see me, you read the letter over and over again, your stomach fluttering. I want to see you.

Past the plethora of persons disembarking, past the many political volunteers ushering about far-off dreams of peace that were unachievable, you navigate through unknown territory in an effort to find him. Fingers pointed, people spoke foreign directions as they glanced at the address on your envelope. It has all brought you here.

Face to face with a young girl, too young to be married.

“Ah—sorry,” you begin, “I was told Levi Ackerman lived here.”

“Yeah he does,” she begins suspiciously, “I’ll get him.” The door closes again and already you feel out of your element. Perhaps this was a mistake, you wish the ground can swallow you whole. Peering eyes look at you through a nearby window, ones that belonged to the young girl who just spoke to you, and another who you haven’t met.

“That’s her? No way,” you can hear them say. Suddenly the door opens, and dull gray eyes that bore a hint of annoyance soften and make way for a familiar glitter that reminded you of simpler times.

“Levi.”

He whispers your name, suddenly hiding his maimed hand, trying to get you to see his good side, the side with his working eye. But you don’t see that. You see the man who gifted you flowers, you see the man whose cheeks you once kissed.

You will yourself to move and you do, grabbing the hand behind him and crashing into him in an embrace. Levi’s face is red, and he glances at the window to see Gabi and Falco gawking at them. He waves them off annoyingly and they give him a thumbs-up as they pull away.

Hands come to wrap around you, lips kissing your forehead.

“You came,” he whispers into your hair.

“Of course.”

[anonymousewrites]

A Not-So-Disastrous Romance (Book 1) Chapter Nine

Kusuo Saiki x Reader

Chapter Nine: Mothers and Meetups

Summary: Saiki and (Y/N) get stuck as Saiki's house, and (Y/N) ends up in an awkward discussion with Yumehara and Teruhashi.

            “Soon, the world will turn into a sea of blood,” said Kaidou cryptically as he walked down the street with his friends.

            “At least red’s a pretty color,” said (Y/N), always seeing the positive side of things.

            “The time of awakening is fast approaching, Saiki,” said Kaidou.

            “Why don’t you wake up?”

            “Well, then, Saiki, (L/N). See you tomorrow,” said Kaidou. “That is…assuming there is a tomorrow.”

            “Oh, hi, Shuniekins! Are you going home now?” asked a grey-haired woman in front of Saiki’s house.

            “W-Welcome home, mama!” stuttered Kaidou.

            “Is that your mom?” asked (Y/N) excitedly.

            “I am, Shun, are these friends of yours?” questioned Mrs. Kaidou.

            “Well, never mind them! Let’s go home!” squeaked Kaidou nervously.

            “What’s the matter? Our house is close by. Why don’t you invite them over for tea?” asked Mrs. Kaidou.

            “What?! W-Well, they’re busy. Right? Isn’t that right?” Kaidou was practically begging his friends to say they were.

            “Yeah, I do have some stuff I was gonna do today…” said Nendou.

            “Come on, get the picture.”

            “Actually, it was nothing important,” finished Nendou.

            “I would love some tea!” chirped (Y/N).

            “And you?” Mrs. Kaidou addressed Saiki. “Are you busy?”

            I think I’ll pass.

            “I got some coffee jelly from the neighborhood association earlier.” Mrs. Kaidou smiled.

            “I’m sure he’s free,” said (Y/N) teasingly before Saiki even responded.

            “Please take us to your home.”

            “Please, come in.” Mrs. Kaidou opened the door of a huge house. She led them to a bedroom. “This is Shuniekin’s room.”

            “What a big room!” exclaimed Nendou.

            “Wow!” (Y/N) grinned as they looked around.

            “You can do somersaults on the floors!” Nendou began to roll around.

            “Yeah, but there’s no good reason to.”

            “He’s lively, isn’t he?” remarked Mrs. Kaidou, smiling. “No matter, I’ll go prepare tea.”

            “Th-Thanks!” Kaidou called after her.

            “Hey, runt! You call your mom ‘Mama,’ huh?” teased Nendou.

            “You had to bring that up, didn’t you?”

            “Are you a goody-goody at home?” joked Nendou.

            “I know the nickname attack very well.”

            Kaidou switched to his eighth-grade syndrome persona. “She’s an ordinary citizen. I’m trying not to drag her into this since my identity in this world is Shun Kaidou, not the Jet Black Wings! As for ‘Mama,’ in this case, it’s the characters for ‘true’ and ‘demon’ combined. In the world I come from, that’s how we address our mothers.”

            “Calm down, Shuniekins,” teased Nendou.

            “You’re a big mama’s boy,” cooed (Y/N).

            Nendou began looking under Kaidou’s bed.

            “Ah! Hey! What’re you doing, you jerk?!” cried Kaidou.

            “Looking for dirty magazines, what else?” replied Nendou.

            “Blech,” said (Y/N), sticking out their tongue at the idea.

            “Huh? I don’t have stuff like that!” said Kaidou.

            Nendou found a box and dumped out some journals. “Oh? This looks suspicious. What’s this?” He picked up a paper labeled “contract.”

            “Don’t touch that notebook!” squeaked Kaidou. “I’ll never forgive you if you open it.”

            “Put that down, Nendou. That’s not a game to him.” Saiki was serious.

            (Y/N) nodded fervently. “Leave it alone.” They snatched it from Nendou and gave it back to Kaidou.

            “What’s the big deal?” asked Nendou.

            “Those with eighth-grader syndrome have notebooks that they never want others to see.”

            “You’re no fun. I’ll check out these other shelves,” said Nendou.

            “How dare you mess up my sanctuary, you jerk!” said Kaidou.

            His mother entered the room with a tray of tea and sweets. “Thank you for waiting.”

            Kaidou immediately became quiet and polite again as everybody began to eat and drink.

            “I know it can be tough since he’s so shy, but please continue to be his friends,” said Mrs. Kaidou.

            “S-Stop it Ma—I mean Mom!” cried Kaidou.

            “She’s quite different from my mom.”

            “And mine!”

            “So, you three, what college would you just kill to get into?” asked Mrs. Kaidou.

            “Ma—Mom, it’s too soon for that sort of talk!” exclaimed Kaidou.

            “What are you saying? It’s important to start thinking about that now,” his mother said, frowning. “You three are second years. You must be studying for your college exams, right? So which school?”

            “What’s this ‘killer college business?” asked Nendou.

            “I really haven’t thought about it all that much. Besides…right now this is all I can think about.” Saiki began to eat his coffee jelly.

            “I haven’t narrowed it down quite yet,” said (Y/N) brightly, sipping their tea.

            Those were all the wrong answers.

            “Just how lightly do you three take your future?” demanded Mrs. Kaidou. “College prep begins the moment you enter high school! Shuniekins goes to cram school three times a week and studies at least three hours a day at home! You three at least prep before all your regular and after school classes, right?!”

            “I’m not disregarding my future, but…” (Y/N) trailed off. They felt like it was a bad idea to continue.

            Nendou and Saiki were silent (mostly because the sweets were too distracting).

            “Shun, come with me!” commanded Mrs. Kaidou. She dropped a ton of workbooks on the table. “You three work on workbooks! You can have snacks when you’re done!”

            (Y/N) sighed and slumped in disappointment. “Aw, man…” They sighed and picked up a thin worksheet. “Maybe if I get a little done, she’ll let me have something…”

            Saiki nodded and, when they weren’t looking, made the rest of the work finish itself with his abilities. “Finished,” he said. Please let this be one of the times you’re not observant.

            “Let’s eat then!” cheered (Y/N), not questioning anything.

            Good.

            Mrs. Kaidou opened the door and saw the pair eating while Nendou played videogames. “What are you three doing?! I told you to study!” She began to flip through a workbook. “I don’t want you to hang out with my Shuniekins any—What? Can’t be…They’re finished?! It hasn’t even been ten minutes!” She was astounded. Could these three really be…geniuses?!

            “Hold on a sec, Mama! I know what you said earlier, but I really—What?” Kaidou frowned in confusion as he entered.

            Mrs. Kaidou was happily giving out more tea and sweets to (Y/N), Nendou, and Saiki. “Please continue to be friends with Shun! Oh, Shuniekins, what good friends you’ve got!”

            (Y/N) leaned over and whispered to Saiki. “I’m really glad she didn’t press the whole college thing. I don’t think she’d really take to the idea of going to culinary school instead of a college for academics.”

            “You want to be a cook?”

            “Confectioner, actually,” said (Y/N). They grinned teasingly. “Yes, that means I could make coffee jelly.”

            “Are you an angel?” blurted Saiki.

            (Y/N) just laughed.

            Saiki found that he liked that sound.

l

            (Y/N) was heading to Café Mami, simply thinking about the snacks they wanted. They were broken from their thoughts when she bumped into Teruhashi and Yumehara.

            “Teruhashi? Yumehara?”

            “(L/N)?”

            “(Y/N)?”

            They ended up sitting together inside Café Mami.

            “I think this is the first time we’ve seen each other outside of school,” said Yumehara.

            “Now that you mention it, you’re right,” said Teruhashi.

            “I didn’t know you two came here,” said Yumehara.

            “It makes the best tea and sweets,” said (Y/N), smiling.

            “I come to study and read,” said Teruhashi.

            “I see…” Yumehara trailed off.

            All three took a sip of their drinks.

            This is awkward. We don’t talk much at school, thought Teruhashi.

            I called them by their first names. Do we know each other well enough to do that? wondered Yumehara.

            This tea is really nice, thought (Y/N).

            “Ah, come to think of it, our school trip is coming up soon, right?” remarked Yumehara, making conversation.

            “Okinawa, isn’t it? I can’t wait,” said Teruhashi.

            “Yeah, I’m really looking forward to it.” Yumehara began to fantasize about Saiki complimenting her (extremely unrealistically).

            “Yeah…” Teruhashi began to daydream Saiki saying “oh, wow” (also extremely unrealistically).

            “I’m excited!” chirped (Y/N). They imagined Saiki as well, but their mind pictured just traveling Okinawa with him (though they also wished for a moment with him. They did like him, after all).

            “I can dream, right…” breathed Teruhashi.

            “Huh? Were you thinking something just now?” asked Yumehara.

            “What? No, nothing!” said Teruhashi hurriedly. “What about you two?”

            “I-I wasn’t thinking about anything,” stammered Yumehara.

            “I was thinking about what I want to do on the trip,” said (Y/N) honestly.

            “Um, do you have someone you like, Kokomi?” asked Yumehara, trying to create conversation again.

            Teruhashi spit out the tea she was drinking.

            “What?! You do?” asked Yumehara excitedly.

            Oh, yeah, Teruhashi likes Saiki, remembered (Y/N).

            “N-No, I don’t,” denied Teruhashi, “You suddenly asked the question, so I was surprised.”

            “Sure…” said (Y/N). No point in exposing her to someone else who likes Saiki. Especially since it would cause him trouble.

            “Well, I guess you wouldn’t right? It seems love worries are foreign to you,” said Yumehara. “What about you, (Y/N)?”

            “Nope,” chirped (Y/N), lying easily.

            The other girls nodded uncertainly. They didn’t believe them (mostly because they assumed that (Y/N) liked Saiki as they did since they spent so much time with him).

            “What about you, Yumehara? Do you like someone?” asked the blue-haired girl.

            “Y-yeah,” said Yumehara, blushing.

            “Wow! Who is it?” questioned Teruhashi.

            Saiki again, thought (Y/N).

            “Well…don’t tell anyone, okay?” asked Yumehara.

            “Of course not,” said (Y/N).

            “Someone in our class?” asked Teruhashi.

            “Yeah,” admitted Yumehara.

            “Ahh, now I’m curious!” Teruhashi smiled brightly.

            “My psych—,” began Yumehara.

            Oh, wow, is she really going to be truthful? (Y/N)’s eyes widened.

            Teruhashi spit out her tea. “What’d you just say?!”

            “What? Oh, I said my psycho ex-boyfriend is finally out of the picture, so…” said Yumehara.

            Oh, oops, thought (Y/N).

            “Oh, psychO…psychO, right…” mumbled Teruhashi, relieved.

            “It’s someone I liked before I went out with my boyfriend,” said Yumehara.

            “Uhm…to tell you the truth, there is someone I’m sort of interested in,” said Teruhashi.

            Is Teruhashi going to admit it???? thought (Y/N). “Wow, really?”

            “What? No way?! Who’s that?!” questioned Yumehara excitedly. “In our school?! A French guy?!”

            “H-Hey, you’re too loud,” said Teruhashi.

            “She’s very curious,” laughed (Y/N).

            “Well, since so many guys hang out with you, I can’t figure it out,” said Yumehara, shrugging.

            “No, that’s not true. The last time I hung out with guy friends was when I went to Saiki’s house with (L/N) and the other guys on New Year’s Day,” said Teruhashi, smiling.

            Yumehara spit out her tea. “O-Oh, I see.”

            Uh, oh. They’re realizing that they both like Saiki… thought (Y/N).

            They were completely unaware of the two girls who were also thinking about how (Y/N) might like Saiki. Luckily, they were all distracted as a straw wrapper popped over the booth divider.

            “Oh, sorry. It went to your side,” said Nendou, appearing over the divider. “O-Oh, Teruhashi!”

            The trio looked over at the other booth.

            “Hi, guys!” (Y/N) waved and grinned.

            The other two began to blush as they realized Saiki could have heard them talking. Seeing the other blush, their suspicions were confirmed. Strangely, though, Kaidou bumped into Yumehara, who turned completely red. Nendou then accidentally jostled Teruhashi, who also blushed. (Y/N) could tell that from Teruhashi and Yumehara’s wide eyes that they probably thought the other liked Kaidou and Nendou, respectively.

            (Y/N) grinned and whispered to Saiki, “Lucky break for you. Now they won’t be fighting over you.”

            “Yeah. Just lucky.”

            Unfortunately, (Y/N) wasn’t as lucky, and as they spoke to Saiki, they remained right in the line of fire of Teruhashi and Yumehara’s suspicions.

            Yare yare.

            Saiki decided to ignore them and order another coffee jelly. With (Y/N).

Taglist:

@elaemae

@painstakingly-juno

@characterreaderwriter

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@sleep-7372

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@paastaboi

[genshingorlsrevengeance]

Yeah I got a request. Cuddles with mommy characters of your choice would heal me of my ailments, like a victorian child who would be soothed by seeing the sea one final time before the affliction takes hold

(Genshin Impact/H:SR/GFL) Cuddling with Lisa, Yae, Yelan, Himeko, Natasha, Springfield, and RO635

That's...oddly specific.

Lisa cuddling with her S/O is comfortable and very lazy.

Whether it be reading a book, drinking tea, or simply enjoying each other's warmth, there will be nothing productive done that day.

But in order to achieve such heavenly bliss, they will have to work doubly hard right before, so that way they can lounge about with no risk of worrying about work.

That, or she'll find excuses. If it's raining, then oh well! Nothing to do but relax at home.

With her eyes slowly fluttering open, her head rests into the crook of S/O's neck, latching onto them with both her arms.

(Lisa) yawn "It's so early in the morning..."

S/O's eyes glance over to the wall before sighing.

(S/O) "It's ten."

(Lisa) "Hm...still too early, cutie..."

Though cuddling with Yae can lull S/O a somewhat sleepy state, somehow they feel like that's exactly what she wants.

Yae's smile seems to indicate she has something up her sleeve.

(Yae) "Oh? Why are you getting so antsy of all a sudden, S/O?"

(S/O) "I know that look, Miko..."

(Yae) "Do you now? Is it truly so mind-boggling that I too, can enjoy just some regular affection?"

...A moment of silence gives her the answer.

With a flick of their forehead, her hand playfully mimics a fox with her fingers.

(Yae) "Sorry to disappoint dear, but I just wish to spend some quality time today.~"

She of course, jumpscares them later to which she laughs endlessly about.

Yelan rolled the dice, and have dictated to her that she take a break.

And she wasn't really feeling like finishing the rest of work anyway, so this works out.

(Yelan) "Not planning on moving anywhere for a while, S/O?"

(S/O) "Guess not with you laying on me like this."

(Yelan) "Perfect, don't mind if I do.~"

Yelan rests her head on S/O's stomach and dozes off for a while.

S/O smiles as one hand brushes against her hair. Having her relax with them was a rare treat.

And though they didn't know entirely what she did, getting her to sleep with someone in the room meant she trusted them completely.

Plus, they knew Yelan would want to get dinner at some point tonight, no need to rush things, as she would say.

As the Astral Express is travelling through the stars, Himeko spends a good chunk of her time with S/O, close together on the couch.

Sometimes its drinking coffee together, sometimes its talking with the other crew members, and sometimes its even just sitting together in silence.

As much as their expeditions were ways for everyone to bond, it was the quiet moments like these that Himeko cherishes with her S/O the most.

After all, no one quite knew where their final stop could be, and-

(S/O) "Himeko?"

Himeko snaps out of her mini reverie and feels S/O grab her hand, turning to look at them.

(S/O) "You alright? You were spacing out a little there."

(Himeko) "Ah, don't worry, I'm okay."

Himeko lets S/O's head rest on her shoulder and she closes her eyes, committing this feeling to memory.

(Himeko) "I just want to stay this way for a little longer..."

Natasha lets S/O hold her after a long day, a feeling she very much welcomes.

(S/O) "Hey Nat, feeling tired?"

She hums in response, her body relaxing as their hand brushes some strands of hair out of her face.

(Natasha) "As always, my dear..."

S/O chuckled at that, and let her ramble on about her day, ranging from the state of patients or whatever shenanigans the Moles got up to.

Though she'd be right back to doing more tomorrow, for now she could at least enjoy the company of someone she loved.

It was nice to be pampered every now and then.

No objections from her when it comes to being looked after, instead of always the other way around.

Springfield's smile grows wider the moment she sees S/O come into her cafe.

(Springfield) "Welcome back, love."

(S/O) "Thanks. Mind if I get the usual?"

(Springfield) "Already in a cup."

Making S/O sit in a nearby booth, she finishes cleaning her cups before joining them, both of them snuggling into each other.

Though she was a T-Doll, the warmth she gave off was just as real as any human.

(Springfield) "Work around the base busy as always?"

(S/O) "Psh, especially when Kalina and the Commander have me running around!"

A soft giggle escapes her lips as one hand barely moves to cover it, letting S/O continue and listen intently, all while her arm wraps around theirs.

RO sighs when S/O asked to hold her.

She was still in the middle of processing some reports, but she supposed it wouldn't hurt.

At least no one was watching this time.

(RO635) "You have been working hard lately...Okay okay, come here..."

With a blush creeping onto her face, RO holds S/O tightly, and not giving them space to wiggle their way out.

Assuming they even would.

Hopefully, she wouldn't have to say out loud how much she loves them and that the blush on her would do all the talking.

(S/O) "RO, you're head is burning hot, you alright?-"

(RO635) "A-Ah! I'm fine just...j-just a little embarrassed."

(S/O) "I thought you'd be used to this by now-"

She turns to them pouting, but her hold on them has gotten tighter.

[magics-neptunes-things]

She dares me

Hello everybody!

I had a lot of request for Lucy Bronze, so here am I trying one with her :)

I have some other writing in my draft tho, I try to decide which one I will post first but I have to admit that I write for the one who inspires me the most according to my mood of the day x)

I hope you'll like it anyway ♥

Resume : You take care of you stubborn and childlish girlfriend.

TW : None

____________________________________________________________

"Lucia Roberta Bronze, this is the worst idea you’ve ever had"

"But baby, she dared me"

You roll your eyes when you hear Lucy whine, before she gets an impressive coughing fit. Sighing, you hand her a tissue so she can blow her nose and you patiently wait for her to be able to speak again.

Sitting on her bed, in her room of her apartment, it’s been an hour now that you’re trying to take care of her. When she missed practice today because she was sick, you knew it wasn’t just a little cold. Lucy isn't the type to miss training for nothing or even to be fragile in terms of her immune system. She warned you in the morning that she was not feeling well, so after finishing your training, you hurried to find her.

After having assured you for a few minutes that it was nothing, she finally confessed to you that following a challenge from Mapi, she found herself all dressed in the Mediterranean Sea. In the middle of winter. Obviously she didn't have any spare clothes and had to make the way back wet from feet to head.

"In the meantime, Mapi only got wet to the calf, so I won."

You sigh again, looking at her with a distressed air. You are obviously in love with this woman, more than anything else in the world. But sometimes you have trouble understanding how she can be so spontaneous and childish.

"She also has a cold and I now understand better why Ingrid was giving her black looks every time she sneezed."

Lucy sneers at the news, probably playing the scene in her head. Despite yourself, you can’t help but smile too.

"But between Ingrid and me, she’s definitely the winner. Her girlfriend is not about to die of pneumonia."

"Not going to die of pneumonia" Lucy mumbles sleepily as she pulls up her sheet under her chin.

"How is it that in our both couples it's the youngest who are the most mature?" you ask rhetorically by putting your hand on her forehead, trying to find out if her temperature is starting to fall.

"Dunno. Maybe because you both aren't fun" Lucy mumbles before yawning.

"Maybe I should ask Ingrid to get in a relationship with me, at least we would be both not fun but happy and healthy?"

You pull your tongue out at her and Lucy slaps your hand, frowning at you.

"Hey! Don’t laugh with that"

"I’ll go out and get you some medicine. Try to get some rest."

Sulking, Lucy gets on her side to turn her back on you and you watch her do it with an amused smile. You kiss her shoulder covered with the sheet and slowly come out of the bedroom. You take the opportunity to tidy up some of the things that the English left behind during the day before going out towards the pharmacy.

The air is fresh and the night begins to fall, making you shiver. You make the round trip with a quick step, the face completely masked by your scarf and the hood of your jacket. It's with relief that you find the warmth of Lucy’s apartment and you decide to make both of yourself tea. You to warm up, Lucy to ease her throat.

A quick passage through Lucy’s room learn you that she sleeps deeply and you decide not to wake her. After preparing a soup in addition to tea, you sit on the couch with your hot cup of tea and your phone. After like one hour, your hear her cough again and made your way to her room.

"You ok?" you ask when you see that she’s awake.

Lucy nods and turn for her nightstand to take her bottle of water. You let her do it, making a quick trip to the kitchen to put on the tray that you prepared and the medicines. With your foot, you push the door of the room to open and you put the tray on the other night table. Then you lie down next to her, on the sheet.

"How are you feeling?"

"Terrible" she answers by dropping on her back on her cushion.

With an empathetic smile, you clear her face of the few strands of hair that block her eyes.

"I’m sorry I said you weren’t fun"

You laugh slightly before you lean over her to put a kiss on her forehead.

"I know, baby." You smile at her again before you put the tray between you two. "Your meds. And I think it would be nice if you ate a little"

You nod at the soup bowl and Lucy looks at it thoughtfully for a few moments before resigning herself to sit in the bed. Once she’s settled, you hand her the bowl and let her eat, telling her a few things that happened during training.

Then, when she’s done, you help her take her meds and drop her half-empty cup of tea on her nightstand.

"Where are you going?" she whines as you come out of the room.

"Do the dishes?"

"Fuck the dishes. I need hugs to get better, it was written on the leaflet of the medicines"

"Of course, I didn’t have to read the little sentence in the end"

You laugh and rest the tray to climb on the bed next to her.

"Exactly"

Her big smile when she answers you goes straight to your heart and you spread your arms so that she can cuddle up against you. After offering to watch something on television, you find yourself stroking her hair while watching Malcolm. When you found out it was Lucy’s favorite show, you were surprised at first, but you got used to it.

Not used to seeing Lucy so clingy, you take full advantage of having her for you in this state. Usually, you're the needy one between you two. But that's ok because Lucy never refuses you a kiss or a hug. And the best part is, you don’t have to feel guilty because the meds seem to be working and she feels better.

And her health will continue to get better, since after three days she is fully on her feet and back to training. The only thing that’s changed is that with Ingrid you promised yourself that you’d never let the two women go out by themselves again.

[screaminglygay]

KINKTOBER day 1

pairing: siren! natasha x reader

summary: working on a boat sounds like a fun, but what if there is a cold weather?

word count: 3.6k

warnings: heavy manipulation!!!, mind control, toxic dynamic, humping a tail, dirty talk, just smut!, badly written description of what sailors do

an: so the time is here!!!! I’m exited and also anxious, aghh. I’d appreciate any of your feedback and don’t be scared to send me some thoughts! If there are any typos, i sincerely apologize, just let me know and I’ll fix it!

an2: there is a part that was inspired by hp and goblet of fire, i’ve changed most of it, but left some parts, since natasha is siren. felt like it was fitting. and it’s exactly how I imagine natasha’s style of singing.

(italics = your thoughts)

!MDNI!

Enjoy this spooky time and be safe!

Working on a coast was an incredible experience and for such a long time you were happy to have the oppurtunity to see new things, but most imporantily feel new things.

This spontanious work trip helped you with your mental health more than your therapist in years. You didn´t even mind working alone somedays, since your coworkers had some days shift off. You enjoyed those quiet days, where you didn´t even overthink, you just let your thoughts peacefully be and surprisingly they did the same thing to you.

Seeing things, the old things but with a different font was something you never get tired of. Everything was bigger and prettier. Colorfull sunrises and sunsets, bigger and shiny stars. But when the warm and fuzzy wind was changed by heavy rains and scary thunderstorms, you were really changing your opinion and wishing you were back in your comfy king sized bed, watching another stupid show on Netflix. Not everything was so colorful all the time.

Especially when the weather got cold and nothing was so warm and fuzzy as in the summer. When the first storm came you thought that you can hadle it, alone. You did, but barerly.

But from todays morning, you knew something big is coming and nothing could prepare you for that. You woke up and checked your phone, like you did every signle day and noticed you have one unread message, saying that your coworker, Tobias, can´t make it, because he got sea sick, from all the sailing he did this week. Which is little weird since you´re positive he´s been sailing the day he was born. But even the best of us can get sick sometimes. So youre all alone. You let out a big sigh. You werent mad, no. You were just little scared of the storm that might and most probably will come today.

When you finally got up and looked from the window you could feel that the wind was freezingly cold. Goosebumps begin to form on your arms and neck. The cold feeling seeps through your skin deeper, like a stealthy intruder, sending shivers down your spine. It's an icy touch that grips your body, making your muscles tense.

It´s gonna be a long day.

As always you packed your stuff, fuzzy socks, warm coat, another shirt just in case youll get wet. Lastly you took some snacks and a big amout of soup, hoping your heater wont let you down. And last but not least a lots of tea. As your boss always says "Tea and rum is better than a warm coat." Well you dont have the rum, but the tea will do, at least that´s what youre saying to yourself.

When you got to work, you checked all the papers from yesterday, made sure to know what your tasks will be today. And of course you had to check if the boat is in a good shape to sail the next day. It´s a lot of work, but at least you have a job to do. Not like a week ago, where you just sat and watch as the waves hit the rocks for 12 hours. You noticed that even waves have a simple patterns, its was so hypnotic to watch it hit the big rocks again and again and again.

You slowly checked all the papers to not miss anything important and undeerscore everything that you need to do today. You checked your watch and made a mental note to put the kettle on soon.

Youre working here for about a 5 months now and you still havent figured out your routine. Even though most of the times youre still doing the same job all over again, checking something, writing what needs to be fixed, checking the load, or just watching over the boat, you still do everything at the same time. So sometimes (read it as most of the times) you just forget to do the simple things as taking care of your basic needs. When you and Tobias have shift together, you two kinda take care of eachtoher, but when he´s not there it´s just so easy to forget about it.

But today you did quite good job, after checking the lower deck you came back up to unlock the kitchen and put the kettle on. When youre water was getting ready for your favorite and only tea you had here, you wrote some documentary about the first ship load you had to check. Everything was correct and you were happy that you didn´t have to unpack it and count it manually. Your first break of the day fly past very quickly as you finished your tea, that didnt make you feel warm at all. You put the cup in the sink and went on another round of checking the boat lower deck.

As you stood up something red caught your eye in the distance, you took a few steps closer to the window, hoping you would see better at what it is. It was weird seeing something so bright in the distance, where only the gray waves were moving. But to your disappointment, you didnt got the answer, it was probably some coral from the shore. You shake your head slightly and moved to another task.

When you came up you noticed that it was already dark outside, shockingly it was the same tempetrure as throghtout the day. Which was a positive thing.

How long have I been downstairs? What time is it? I didn´t have lunch... again.

As many thoughts at the same time speed through your mind, you heard something under the boat. You just closed your eyes, taking few deep breaths to calm your nerves. You put down the paperwork and the pen you were holding. Making your way to the kitchen, youve notice that you didn´t even drank much water. Cursing yourself, you drink a half of the bottle right away. The fresh water finally hitting your needs. Refreshing shockwave going through your body. Every cell awaken and all of your sences light up. Already feeling better, taking a moment to make soup and overall just refresh yourself. As you´re finishing your food, you hear it again.

Bang.

This time is was way louder, so you took all of your courage to go out and look what it was. Sometimes you were tought, or maybe you just act before you think things through. You were terrified of the dark and most importantly what´s in it, but this time something made you go out. You were surprised by yourself, but you didnt question it, much.

When you got out you checked the boat, slowly analyzing if something is wrong.

Was it an animal? A fallen brench into the water?

"Hello?" You immidietly cursed yourself. "Im an idiot." You mumble as you walk around. "There is no more pathetic and stupid way to die then just say hello to the dark." You mumble under your breath.

After a while walking around the boat a big strike apeared on the sky. And after few second of a complete silence there was a big thunder coming, that made you run back inside. There it was the big storm you were so terrified of. It was way worse than the last time and you were hoping to survive it.

That´s a little bit dramatic, but your heart was pounding fast, your hands started to shake and even in this cold you very still incredibly sweaty, like if you just ran a marathon in the desert. After few hours of tinkinkng you´ll die, the storm suddently stopped, leaving you all tired and scared at the same time. Until youve heard another sound, it wasnt another bang, it was more like a humming.

Maybe someone from the sailors is here? But they are all men. Maybe someones wife? Again, your thoughts are running milions miles per hour.

The humming sounds so warm, like the old days, back in summer, where everything was colorfull, fuzzy and it felt generally so good in your ears. You stood up and without second guessing you step outside. There was complete silence, not a single person outside, The sun slowly coming out, trying to fight those stromy clouds that were showing the only evidence of heavy storm.

As soon as your hand laid back on the door handle a beautfiul voice start to sing a melodic song. You didnt understand it, it was some language you never heard, but you liked it, your brain might not understand the words, but your body understood the melody. And suddenly you didn´t felt cold, it was the other way around actually. Your cheeks were on fire, like you were running a fever, but you didn´t feel bad, no, you actually felt the best you ever did.

When you turn around you saw her. Unbeiebly beaitiful, goddess looking woman. Her hair was red, not like an apple red, more like a bright fire that is keeping you warm at the coldest nights. Each strand seemed to catch the sunlight that was finally going up, setting her aglow with a vibrant, fiery aura. Her green eyes were pierced at you, she was looking at you, waiting for your move. But you just stood there and watched her, your breathing started to speed up. You tried to remeber evertything about her, but as soon as your eyes fell lower, you noticed how light her skin looked. It reminded you of a fresh marble that was just ready to be cast in. But what caught your off guard the most, was her tail. You´ve never seen aynthing like that and it was very obvious, because youre face made it very well known. It was mixed feeling between shocked and amazed. The siren's tail was a fluid masterpiece, a shimmering blend of oceanic blues and greens. With each sinuous movement, it created a mesmerizing scene.

"Hey sailor." she smirked, her voice sound way raspier than it did when she sang.

"I- I- I´m not a sailor. This is uh not my uh- boat... I just work here." You stutter out, cursing yourself for seeing the prettiest woman your eyes have ever laid on and you ramble out this sentence.

"You just work here? Oh what a pity, I wanted to ask for some help." The red haired frown, which made you feel sad right away.

"I can help! I just... not my boat." You awkwardly chuckled out.

Her eyes immidietly fell back on you. "Oh really? I don´t want to bother since you´re not the sailor of this boat." Her voice sounded so soft, yet harsh at the same time. It was luring you, by every word she said, you felt different emotion each time. A good emotions.

"I mean I´m on a shift now, so teoretically I am sailor of this boat." You smiled, youre pupils were so big and you felt like you were in euhporia.

She smiled softly. Her smile could make a whole army fall to their knees. You knew it, but most imporatnly she did too. But there was only one person she want to fall on their knees. And that person was you.

"Okay then, sailor..." her raspy voice now coming lower to your body, slowly eletrucing you. "I just need a little favor, my tail..." She let out a little whine, completly changing her body language. She didn´t seem so confident, she looked so fragile and sad. And you have to help her.

"Are you hurt?!" You imidditetly walk closer to her. Crouching so youre on the same eye level. She place her hand on yours, looking at you and finally, she bonded. Her touch made you feel cold and warm at the same time. Butterflies flying everywhere not just in your stomach and her eyes. Her captivating eyes has already read you like a whole book. Her eyes were an entrancing shade of emerald, deep and captivating like the hidden depths of the sea. They held an enigmatic allure, with a hint of mischief and ancient wisdom that drew you in, ensnaring your heart and mind.

"A little-" she sigh and looks away. "-maybe you can help me get back, to safety, where no one can find us." The soft spoken woman look at you, making eye contact again, while her hand is still on yours.

"Us?" Your words caught her off guard.

"Yes, us, darling. You know, not all people are kind as you are. Youre the only one who ever made me feel safe. Youre the only one i can trust now. Youre-" she blinks a few times, leaning closer to you. "-youre my saviour. Will you help me, darling? Help us to get to safety? The world is too cruel and we need to decide right now."

This was the task you were waiting your whole life on here. Make sure she is safe, there is nothing else that is more important than this. You nod, still making eye contact.

"I will. Of course!" You nod again, taking this job very seriously, as you felt like you were born for this.

"Say it. Say what you were made to do, darling." Raspiness was now the only thing that you´ve heard. You were less and less interested in your work and your tasks before her.

Before her there was... was there anything before her?

"I will help you. I will help us get to safety." Your eyes scanned her face, hoping these words will help her.

"Thank you my darling, will you follow me? Please?" her eyes were watery, she´s holing back tears and that tears your heart.

"Yes." You say without hasitation.

"Yes, what, darling?" She asks.

"Yes, uh-" suddnely you feel this sensation, your head feels fuzzy and your view is more and more bright. Your words are caugh up in your throat, when you looked at her lips you can see them moving, but your ears cant catch the word she´s saying. But your mind does.

"Yes, mistress." you whisper back as it´s the only thing you can say.

As you closed your eyes for a second, the world around you seemed to blur and fade. The warm feeling never leaving your side.

Time itself shifted, as if you were wrapped in a comforting cocoon. The soft, rhythmic sound of waves crashing against the shore became a lullaby and there is it was again. Her singing. Her soft and heart warming singing.

When you finally stirred, it was as if you had awakened in a dream. The dimly lit cave, adorned with iridescent seashells and many other decorations, that suited the cave. And there, before you, was a siren of unparalleled beauty, her emerald eyes reflecting the cave's soft luminescence.

"Hello, darling..." she slowly moved towards you "...slept well?" her smirk grew wider as she saw your hand immidietly going between your legs as there was some unbeliveble aching you were feeling.

"I- uh huh" You only nod, not realizing that your hand is going lower on your body.

The siren´s hand falls on your cheeks as she tuck some of your falen hair behind your ear. Not even for a second breaking eye contact. Without second thinking you grab her hands and put them on your body, that was covered in your wet clothes.

"P-please!" Was all you could have said. She just chuckled and squeezed your breasts.

"You don´t even know my name and you want me to fuck you? Aww darling, youre way easier than I thought you would be. So so so easy" She tsked and suddenly, you didn´t felt her hands on you anymore.

"I don´t care!" You yelp as the aching was even worse now. Is this what drugs do to you? You just want more and more and still it isn´t enough.

The siren looked at you shocked, her hand was placed on her chest as a sign of being offended. "Darling, you don´t care what my name is? That´s rude." She pout. Tears immidietly filling her eyes. "And I thought you don´t want to hurt me, yet you´re just like the others." She looked away.

"Wait- No, no, no! Im not like the others, Im sorry! Im so sorry! I want to know your name. Oh gosh I didn´t want to be so selfish!" You grabbed her arm. "Please, tell me your name, I bet it´s beautiful just like you!"

"You think Im beautiful?" Her green eyes falling back on you.

"Very." You nod.

"It´s Natasha." She wiped her tears.

"Okay, Natasha. Im sorry for being selfish, It was really mean, let me make it up to you, please." You felt so sad, like every joy just left your body forever. Like you didn´t even experience a single happy thing in your life. Like everything was just dark.

"You´re right, you did act very selfish and mean. And you should definetly make it up to me, (Y/N)." Natasha seems so small right now, like a small fish in a big dark ocean.

"Anything you want, just please- forgive me." You basically whined at this point.

"(Y/N), you truly hurted my feelings, I don´t know. How can i trust you not hurting me again?" The horrible feeling of guilt is forming not just in your stomach, but also in your head now.

Natasha looked really hurt by your words. And you felt like if you´ll lose her, you´ll lose yourself, forever.

You squeezed her hand. "I will never. How can i prove it to you? Please..." You knew this will work. "... mistress, let me prove to you, I won´t ever hurt you and Im truly so sorry!"

Her eyes shifted, her pretty green color in her eyes just dissapeared and turned into black.

"Take of your clothes. They´re wet, you will get sick. Aren´t you cold, darling?" At her words you did feel the cold breeze. Actually you were freezing.

"Y-y-yeah, Im freezing." You said while your teeth chattered.

"Oh, darling! Clothes off, righ now!" She ordered and you did as she told. "I don´t want you catch a cold!" Her voice was caring, so caring you didn´t think you deserve it, after how mean you´ve been acting towards her.

As you stand there, completly naked the shivering didn´t end, it got even worse and your nipples could cut dimonds now.

"You´re still cold? Oh, darling, come here." She pointed at her tail. "My tail is warm, it´s gonna keep you from freezing to death." Her smile could cure everything negative thing in this world.

Without second guessing you almost jumped at her, your hand wanting to touch her tail, but you stopped yourself. "May I? Mistress?" Natasha just nodded. You hand immidietly touching her tail.

It´s so soft, oh my god and warm! So so warm.

"Sit on it, darling." She take your hands and guided you on her tail. "It will make you warm, so warm, it will end the shivers, I promise."

So you did. You sat on her tail and if you felt tingles everywhere before, then now there are tignles even in places you don´t have. Running your fingers along its sleek, supple surface was like caressing a piece of heaven. Its velvety texture and gentle, soothing warmth enveloped you in a sense of euphoria, as if you were touching a living embodiment of comfort and enchantment, a sensation that melted away all of your less important other thoughts.

Natasha noticed you´re still shivering and put her hand on your hips. "Darling, if you start to move you will stop shivering. Fast friction makes heat and you really need to be in heat now, darling." Natasha was right, her words were exactly what you needed, but you just didn´t know how.

How can I do this? I don´t want to hurt her tail.

"You won´t hurt my tail, darling. I will guide you, okay?" Her strong hands squeezed your hips and slowly made you move back and forth. "Just like that, you´re doing so good."

After a little while you start to get the hang of it and you felt that amazing friction again. Everything started to feel so good, all the lost joy, all the good feeling are back. All the happy thoughts.

"Oh my god- it´s really working!" You screamed.

"I know, darling. I can feel you on my tail. Keep going." She wispered in your ear.

You did. Oh boy, you did. You moved your hips back and forth faster and faster. And at the same time it got easier, maybe it´s the tail, or maybe it´s the fact that your juices were all over Natasha.

You definetly felt the heat.

Few moments before you came and let all of your juices on the siren´s tail, she started to sing again. In the same language you couldn´t understand before, but you can now. It´s like you know the song all your life.

"Come seek us where our voices sound,

We cannot sing alone in the dark,

And while you're searching, ponder this:

We're gonna take what you'll sorely miss,

But not for long you gonna think,

Let us help, and you won´t sink.

Your life might have been so perfect,

Too late, it's gone, it won't come back."

After the red head stopped singing, she looked at you and finally closed the gap between you two. Your first kiss was a moment of exquisite tenderness, a meeting of souls that overlap the boundaries of land and sea. As their lips brushed together, it was a gentle, captivating exchange of warmth and desire. In that soft, lingering kiss, they found a connection that was as deep and boundless as the ocean itself, a love that defied all expectations and left you utterly in her arms.

"I forgive you, darling." Natasha said and you knew, you found your life task. As she holds you close on her tail your eyes fell back into the warm fuzzy feeling, you didn´t mind be in forever.

Hope you enjoyed first day of KINKTOBER!

Thank you for reading!!!

[dunmeshi-darlings]

Hello

Can I request a laios x reader, with the reader as laios ex-fiance, since their arrangements was broken off when he ran away without explanation reader have been sad and mad about it. But then someday laios mother told reader about laios become a new king after defeating a demon, reader decided to go there, because reader want to know why he ran away

I'm sorry if this is difficult to understand, English is not my first language, thank youuu

Oh you got no need to apologize its all ok. i understand what you meant. id be happy to do this. thank you so much for sending an imagine in.

Even though its been many years since laios cut off the arrangement and disappeared you still found yourself getting upset at him. He just cancelled it all and ran off to not be heard from again.

Of course over the years that anger and frustration faded greatly but every so often your mind would wander and you would feel your cheeks heat up at the thought of being abandoned like that. but over all you figure it was probably for the best anyway, you dont mind your life and that touden was always...strange to say the least even if he was a looker.

One day though as you are going about your day when laios mother approaches you, asking if she can come in. You agree and let her inside, despite your feelings about laios you had no bad blood with her. you get the both of you some tea as she starts speaking. "Did you hear about the rise of the golden kingdom?" she asks, you nod and say of course you had. it had been the talk of the entire world ever since it rose up out of the sea, seemingly out of nowhere one day. Apparently some group of adventurers defeated the mad mage and seemed like those rumors about becoming the new leader of it was true. You say casually as you take a sip of some tea. "yeah well apparently Laios was the one that defeated the mage and rules the golden kingdom now." she says so casually causing you to spit all the tea you were drinking out, shouting in confusion you ask her if you heard that right? she nods and explains what she had been told from letters from falin, you knew that falin had stayed in touch with there parents but laios had apparently cut them off a decade ago much to your surprise.

You decide to pay a visit, you feel like you almost HAVE to. you need to know why he just left you like that, why he did what he did all those years ago. It took you a bit to get to the new golden kingdom, laios definitely had travelled a far distance since your last time you saw him. By the time you reach the kingdom a full month has passed, you ask the guards to message the king telling him that "Y/N from his arranged marriage wanted to see him." of course you werent sure he would even respond, i mean why would he. he didnt want to marry you obviously so why should he care about seeing you, especially now that he is a KING of all things. However you were surprised when the guard came back and agreed to take you to the king.

When you entered you saw him sitting on a throne. To his left you see a young elf woman with twin braids beside him, This must have been his royal advisor maybe? you werent sure. However you did notice his sister beside her chatting with her...except she was different, she wasnt a tall man anymore..atleast not fully. you noticed a plume of fluffy white feathers poking out of the opening on her chest and down her arms. It was clear she had been changed by some form of magic.

As you walk closer laios asks if everyone can leave the room for a moment, he wants to talk privately with you as they agree and leave leaving only you and him. "So Y/N, how have things been?" He asks awkwardly, its clear he is uncomftorable and doesnt know what to say. You had thought of the things you would say to him for years now, over and over you had gone over in your head what you were going to say to the man that just up and left you like that. you would be furious and scream, sob and cry, all the words you planned to say just dissapear and all you can say is a single word. "why.."

He sighs as he rubs his neck and begins to explain, He tells you how he had began to despise his parents for how they let falin be treated, and how instead of supporting her and her talents they sent her away to the magic school on a different continent. He had grown to hate his parents (more so his father but he had no fond feelings towards his mother either) even though falin kept in contact with them. He also explained how he never felt comfortable around people, that he had always felt more comfortable around monsters...and that in truth he hated people. Plus he admits he wasnt the richest person in the world so would have been able to give you a proper dowry. All of these together made him feel like he wouldnt have been able to give you the life you deserved, he didnt want you to be stuck with a man that hated everyone around him and hated where he lived and wanted to leave and get as far away as he could. He figured that wasnt fair to you, and he didnt know how to properly convey this and let you down easily so...he ran.

The weight of his words hit you harder than you expected...all this time you thought he just didnt like you or hated you ever, or he didnt care about you at all. All this time you hated him for what he did and that you swore you would get answers one day...but these werent the answers you were expected. It would have been so easy to continue to be mad at him, if he said he just didnt like you or hated you that would have been fine..you expected it at this point, but no...he did this because he didnt want to subject you to a miserable life with him..he knew you would be miserable with him if he had stayed there and he didnt want to put you through that...god this was so much harder than you were expecting. "You know....now that im king of the golden kingdom money isnt an issue..and ive made sure the kingdom is a kind place that treats everyone with kindness." you see him slump down a bit. "and since monsters come nowhere near the kingdom...if you want, we can get to know each other better..and see how we feel about each other then?" he says softly, damn that man he was a looker. you sigh, almost relieved its turned out that way. saying you would like that

[artemish]

Sous chef: part 2 | opla!Sanji x fem!Reader

word count: 3.8k

genre/tags: Sanji x reader; first-person pov; fluff; pining (but is it mutual??); angst; hurt/comfort; friends to lovers

warnings: brief anxiety mention

summary: following their late night kitchen heart to heart, things become more complicated when the other Strawhats take notice…

a/n: thankful for the support for the last part! ♥️

Continuing my low key self indulgent series hehe.. 🤭 It took me longer than I wanted to write this next part but I was determined and here we are lol 😅

taglist 💕 @vespidphoenix @dark-academia-slut

𝘏𝘰𝘱𝘦 𝘺𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘦𝘯𝘫𝘰𝘺, 𝘱𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘣𝘭𝘰𝘨 𝘪𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘥𝘰!

(。･ω･｡)ﾉ♡

“Nami, we are just friends.”

I stated this as matter-of-factly as I could.

“Right, and Zoro likes tea with his lunch instead of beer. Cut the shit, y/n.”

Our sweet navigator hadn’t budged from the spot she was judging me from.

Her eyes were determined to pierce through my shield, but I held fast. I flapped my arms up, exasperated by the fact that she kept pushing.

“Look, I couldn’t sleep so I came to the kitchen, I fell really hard and Sanji helped me feel better, that’s all.”

She smirked, “Oh, I’m sure he did.”

“No,” I scoffed in disgust, “not like that. He was also awake, taking note of our supplies, before I came in, got knocked by the swell, and he patched me up. Then we were talking for some time, and I guess we were both more tired than I thought. Just fell asleep, right then and there.”

“Look,” she said, standing up, placing her hands on her hips, “as much as I love him, I would love him even more if I didn’t have him flirting my way. So if he’s into you now, well that makes me a very happy woman who can finally navigate this boat in peace. That being said, I would still like to know what’s going on between you-“

“There’s nothing going on,” I snapped, “and there never will be.”

I didn’t intend to come off so aggressively and I saw her step back when she heard the anger in my voice.

“Sorry,” I breathed, “didn’t mean to get worked up like that.”

But she took no notice of my apology and pointed at me saying, “Does this have to do with the thing you still won’t tell me about? Is that what’s been holding you back?”

I rubbed my forehead with my hand, “yeah, it is.”

She shook her head and crossed her arms, as her frustration reached its peak.

“You know,” she said, this time with a knowing smirk, “secrets come out. They always do. With time and through fate, they always come out. I mean just look at me. I thought I had it all worked out, thought I could keep my secrets to myself.

“But what Luffy taught me, what this whole crew taught me, is that you shouldn’t have to carry your burdens alone. Secrets are better shared with those who can share the load.”

“I know, Nami,” I sighed, “but I can’t tell you, nor the crew, least of all Sanji. You know how he gets.”

“You know you can trust us, but you still don’t want to tell us? Why?”

“I can’t answer that.”

She looked up at the ceiling, as if asking the gods for help, but of course she got no reply.

“I’m not going to get anywhere with you on this, am I?” she sighed. I shook my head.

She paced about the room as I sat back down on my futon, bringing my knees up to my face. She sat down next to me, letting out a big sigh as she did.

“I’m sorry, Nami, but I promise when the time is right I’ll tell you.”

She glared back at me and looked like she was about to say something, but was cut off from a voice outside our door.

“Nami, have you seen y/n around? I’m trying to- oh. You’re here”

Sanji stood in our doorway, looking a bit flustered but still managing to flash us a wide grin.

“Morning ladies, you’re both looking as lovely as a golden sunrise on a calm sea.”

Nami and I rolled our eyes in unison.

“Morning Sanji, had a good sleep did we?” Nami poked, and I felt my cheeks flush red.

“It was good,” he sighed, “until the chill set in and I realised I was alone in the kitchen.”

“Oh,” she said, “were you with someone last night?”

I could have strangled her right then.

“What, oh no, I was ugh, counting beans and I must’ve dozed off. Didn’t realise I wasn’t in my cabin, you know with the others, yeah.”

“Counting… beans?” I could see her fighting every urge to cackle at his pathetic explanation.

“Ugh, yeah,” he stumbled through his words again, “the beans in the barrel. Coffee beans, green beans, soy beans-“

“Well, you should borrow a blanket or a shawl next time to stay warm, in case you fall asleep again. Y/n has a spare one, you should ask her for it.”

I shoved her shoulder and saw her biting down hard on her lip.

“I might,” he said, looking at me then, “as long as I know she’s keeping warm too.”

I couldn’t take this back and forth any longer, and I couldn’t stand the sight of him in the doorway, looking like a lovesick puppy dog waiting for a bone.

“Sanji,” I said finally, “hi, hello, good morning. Why are you here?”

“Oh well, madam, I was actually looking for you.”

“Me? Why were you looking for me?”

“Well, I’m taking you up on that offer, since breakfast is a big one today.”

“Offer? What offer?”

“You being my sous chef, remember?”

Shit, I thought, I’d forgot, I’m screwed!

“Oh of course, yes, just let me ugh change into something more chef-like. Yeah.”

“Alright, my swan, I’ll start prepping while you get ready.”

He flashed us both a grin and walked back to the kitchen, completely missing Nami’s face of pure joy.

It was as if what she had just witnessed between us was better than any treasure she could ever imagine to find in all the four seas and no amount of berry could be used to describe how much she enjoyed that.

Nami stretched out on my futon, exhaling loudly. She rested her head on my lap, and stared wistfully up at the ceiling. I was numb to her and everything around me.

I felt like I was losing my mind.

Ever since we met him at the Baratie, she noticed how he would go that little bit further with me, how his hugs lingered longer, and how his words were kinder.

And she had constantly reminded me of this fact.

“Even if I never get to know all your secrets,” she said quietly, “at least I can hold this one against you. You know, he only cuts your carrots into heart shapes, when he makes us soup.”

“Really?”, I lied, “I hadn’t noticed.”

“Can you even cook?” she asked after another silent moment had passed between us.

I looked down at her. She knew what I was going to say.

“No.”

I changed into some black slacks and a t-shirt, and headed over to the kitchen.

The room was alive with the sounds of rashers of bacon sizzling intensely on the pan, the crackling of flames within the stone oven and the soft, rhythmic thumping of metal on wood. Smoke rose from the stove and the oven, hanging in the air and carrying the sweet scent of bread, the earthy aroma of mushrooms, butter and thyme, and salted meat to every corner of the room.

Sanji had his back to me as he sliced through potatoes in halves then quarters and then smaller still, probably for hash browns.

He moved the knife intently, with a ferocity that seemed barely human, and yet the potato pieces did not come out mangled or broken as one would expect from such intensity, but instead in perfect little cubes, each evenly portioned to form the hash shapes. To say I was intimidated was an understatement.

“Doesn’t really look like you need my help here.” I had moved back towards the doorway unconsciously, perhaps hoping I could get out unscathed.

“On the contrary, y/n,” he said over his shoulder, “I’m swamped this morning and your help would be invaluable.”

I couldn’t let him see how deeply underprepared I was, or how concerning it was that I had gotten this far in life without ever making a real meal or that I lacked any and every culinary skill there was. But it was too late now.

“Oh, ugh, are you sure? I mean you look like-“

“Grab that apron over there and come over.” He pointed to an apron hanging near the doorframe, without looking back at me, and continued to make his way slicing through various other vegetables he was adding to the meal. I begrudgingly put it on.

“Can you please crack those eggs over there into that bowl?”

He pointed to a large silver bowl that was on the counter, right of where he was dealing with the vegetables and meats.

“We’re going to make omelettes and everything else will go with them. We have to get as much as we can from this batter since we also have to eat, not just Luffy, so don’t worry about adding an egg or two extra.”

He smiled, and I melted like butter in a pan at the sight of him.

I stood beside him and stared down at the eggs in the carton, and at the other cartons stacked against the wall.

It was then that I felt my palms tingle and swell with moisture, as I tried to move my hand to pick up an egg. In an instant, I felt my throat dry up, and I felt a rising surge of heat from within me flush over my cheeks, and panic pulse through my chest.

Thump, thump, thump, THUMP.

The sound of my own heartbeat flooded my ears and nothing else.

My breath quickened and I became acutely aware of it. I tried to take in air in small, quick breaths. I didn’t even notice that Sanji had stopped cooking and had turned me to face him, holding my shoulders and calling my name.

“Y/n, are you alright? Can you hear me? Hey, it’s okay, you’re okay, y/n.”

But I couldn’t hear him. My vision blurred over, as my eyelids flickered sporadically. He stopped calling out to me, perhaps realising that it was no use in this state, but continued to hold me steady, rubbing my arms as he did.

My mouth still gaped wide, trying to take in breath but as he held me, my breathing began to even out.

Gods, I thought, this is what I panic about?

“Sanji,” I felt my mind returning, “Sanji. Oh, my gods, Sanji, I’m sorry.”

“Hey,” he said, “don’t apologise. Are you okay?”

He stepped back, keeping one arm on me still, and reached for a glass of water. I faced the floor, too quickly perhaps. My head felt hollow.

“I should’ve told you upfront,” I began, “that I don’t know how to cook, that I’ve never learnt or tried, or rather had the patience to. I’ve just survived on the cooking of others. I shouldn’t have offered to be your sous chef last night, I don’t know what came over me.”

“Woah, hey, it’s alright, y/n.”

“I’m sorry, oh my gods. The truth is… I’m terrified.”

I could see a slight smirk appear on his face as he listened to me.

“Of me or of cooking?,’ he chuckled, “and please, don’t say me.”

“What if I said both?” I said, sheepishly.

“Well, then I’d say you have nothing to be afraid of and I can teach you how to handle both.”

I felt my breath catch again as butterflies began to flutter and whirl violently around inside me, and I thought about how he could probably use my face to light the pan again with the heat that radiated off my red cheeks.

“Sanji, stop that, I-I really know nothing about cooking. I don’t even know what to do with these eggs.” That seemed to get a genuinely worried reaction out of him, as he furrowed his brow in confusion.

“You don’t know how to crack an egg?”

“Oh, I didn’t even know that's what you wanted me to do with them.”

“How else would you make an omelette? How else… would they get in the bowl?”

I was silent. He inhaled deeply as he studied me with those sparkling blue eyes. A moment of realisation seemed to seize him then, as he guided me to the bench and sat me down.

He handed me the glass of water, made a motion with his hand for me to drink, and as I tipped the cooling swell down my throat he said, “I’m sorry if I made you anxious. I didn’t know you couldn’t cook, m’lady.

“Please, if you’re not comfortable, don’t feel like you have to stay here or like I’m forcing you to be here, it’s alright really, but just know that… well I do like your company all the same.”

Before I could speak, he put his hand up to gesture to wait, stepped away quickly to grab the bacon and mushroom mix in the pan off the stove, and put out the flames from the oven before coming back to squat down on his haunches in front of me, holding the bench to keep him steady.

He must’ve noticed how big my eyes looked staring at him.

He reached out his free hand hesitantly but I took it in both my hands, perhaps a little too eagerly, as he wobbled from being surprised by my grip.

“Sorry,” I said, helping him balance, “I-I’m sorry. I didn’t tell you because, well, I was embarrassed. You’re such an incredible cook and everything you make is so brilliant and delicious, I just couldn’t say no to you last night. But I feel like an idiot now, I should’ve just told you.”

I could’ve sworn I saw his cheeks turn pink as I spoke. I fidgeted nervously with his hand, feeling the coarseness of his fingertips and how soft his palms were in comparison.

“You know,” he began, “if you wanted to learn, all you had to do was ask, madam. But tell me, how’d you survive without cooking anything then?”

“I mostly ate whole foods,” I said, “things like bread, all sorts of bread, fruits, wheels of cheese and dried meats, things I knew would keep or could be eaten quickly. And if I had a pot, anything I could just chuck in with a bit of salt and pepper. Better to survive on that then nothing at all.”

He smiled a soft smile and brought his other hand to where our hands were and pulled me up to stand as he did. I had to look up as he said, “Well today I’m going to teach you how to crack an egg, and maybe make an omelette.”

I sat on a stool to face him, opposite to where he was cooking on the benchtop.

“Now watch carefully,” he said, “you hold the egg like this.”

He took the egg in his right hand, the bowl in his left.

“Crack it against the rim of the bowl, so that the break is clean.” With a deft hand, he tapped it firmly against the bowl, and split the shell with his fingers so the yoke fell out perfectly into the silver crater below. He made it look so easy.

“Now you,” he said, beckoning me to come to him. “Don’t worry, I’ll help you.”

I stood in front of the bowl and eggs and he stood behind me. Taking my hands, he guided my left to hold the bowl and my right to hold the egg.

“Hold the bowl firm now,” he said and I nodded in reply. “Keep the egg sideways in your hand, so it’ll make a clean break in the shell.”

His mouth was so close to my ear as he leaned in and whispered his instructions, I felt the heat of his breath against my neck.

Goosebumps rose and trickled all across my body as I felt the strength of his hands against mine. Holding the top of my hand, he moved my arm to make the action.I suppose it made sense for a chef to have as firm a grip as he did, but I hadn’t thought about it before. And I also hadn’t thought about how that grip was making me feel.

“And now we just tap it firmly but still with power on that edge.”

As he brought my hand with the egg down to crack against the bowl, I was more aware of how good it felt to be touched by him, and that his face was only inches away from mine, and the goosebumps, and how if I just turned to the right, just a little…

CRACK!

The egg split and I jolted a little, as he guided my hand over the bowl and let the yoke fall out to mix in with the previous yoke.

“You’ve done it, madam, you’ve officially cracked an egg.”

I nudged him with my elbow as he laughed, and I hoped he didn’t see me blush.

He showed me how to whisk then, when we had cracked the amount he needed, and when to add the rest of the ingredients. He showed me how to butter the pan, told me oil was good too, showed me how to pour, and wait and flip, and how to watch the colour, how to make sure it didn’t burn.

He broke off a small bit, let me taste it, and I remembered tasting his finger a little too.

At the very end he showed me how to serve the dish and make it look beautiful.

“Almost as beautiful as you” he said, which forced me to bury the urges I felt even deeper down or I would’ve abandoned my oath right then and there.

I took it all in as best as I could but I found that I had made the most effort to memorise his touch, his breath, his smile, his sparkling eyes as they looked at me, and how it felt to be guided by those hands knowing I couldn’t guide them the way I wanted to. Or where I wanted.

By that time, everyone else had made their way to the kitchen and we seated ourselves around the bench. Usopp told tales of his daring adventures while Luffy reacted with wows and shouts of awe, and Zorro sat silently eating as much as Luffy it seemed. Nami gave me a wry smile as she sat between Sanji and me.

“Well done, sous chef,” she whispered, and I glanced up at Sanji to see if he heard her. He met my eyes with a grin.

“I hope you all enjoyed your omelettes this morning,” he said cheerfully, “you have the lovely y/n to thank for them today, I was merely her assistant.”

Luffy gaped, “you made this y/n?”

“Yes but-” I began, but he raised his goblet and said, “A toast to the best omelettes I have ever eaten in my life and the best cooks in the East Blue!”

Everyone raised the mugs in agreement and cheered and drank and laughed, and I could only blush and think how lucky I was to find this crew, even if it may only be for a short while longer.

* * *

I found Zoro on the lower deck, napping against the mast, as I made my way down to mop the deck. With one hand placed on his hilt and the other behind his neck, he slouched lazily, unbothered, as I began on the floor in front of him.

“So you like the waiter huh?” He said after I had been at it for some time.

He didn’t open his eyes.

I stopped and leaned on the mop. “I just asked him to teach me how to cook, that's all.”

“I don’t know what you see in him.”

“There’s nothing there, I just-”

He let out a loud “ha” sound and opened his eyes.

“Here I thought you were gonna stay low, keep your guard up and stay on until you needed to, like you told me in Shellstown, but now you're drooling in your soup over the waiter, who’s so eager to serve. So much for that plan of yours.”

I gripped the mop handle so hard I thought it would splinter into my hand.

I moved close to him so that my words came across as a whispered growl. “You know nothing.”

“I know that I risked my ass to bring you with us,” he growled back, “and that keeping you with us is an even greater risk. I know that if the others knew you were a swordsman, a hunted one at that, they’d ask more questions than was good for them or you. And I know I’m the only one you can trust out here and the only one who can help you track that Baroque works shithead before he gets you too. So please, don’t try to bullshit me.”

He was still slumped lazily against the mast but his eyes betrayed no sign of weakness. I crouched down so that I was eye level with him, holding the mop to steady myself.

“You don’t think I can keep my own feelings in check?”

“I’m not trying to piss you off, y/n,” he said, his demeanour unchanged, “but I can’t be quiet either. You said to call you out if I saw you get distracted.”

“He’s not a distraction.”

“But he won’t be safe either way.”

“Why are you so concerned all of a sudden,” I scowled, “it’s not like you give a shit about him. You two are such best friends, aren’t you?”

Zorro made a groan of frustration as he got up, his swords clinking against each other like bells. I rose to meet his eyes, still clinging to my mop.

“You swore to me that nothing would get in the way of you avenging what you lost and that you would lose nothing and no one else on your path. I swore that I would help you see it through to the end.” He clinked his swords as he rested his hand on top of the hilts. “So I’m warning you now,” he continued solemnly, “if you’re not more careful, you may keep that oath but lose something after all.”

He held my gaze for a moment, his eyes a fiery dark amber in the sunlight, before walking away slowly and down into the bowels of the ship.

My heart pounded in my ears.

My hands ached from where I had strangled the wooden mop handle.

As Zoro walked out of my view, I looked up to the balcony on the mid deck above and saw Sanji standing there, brooding it seemed.

No… watching me.

Swirling grey tendrils of smoke coiled in the air as he pulled a long breath and puffed out.

The glow of his cigarette reflected like fiery embers in the darkness of his glare.

[short-honey-badger]

Peppermint Tea 13

Another part so soon! I'm on a roll and already have start the next couple chapters! I hope you enjoy. This was was just kinda indulgent.

Warnings! SMUT! Mihawk knows what he is doing with his tongue. Fingerfucking. Kissing. Some dirty talk. Mihawk is a pervert.

Masterlist

It is 29 days later, you know, because that's how long ago you planted your strawberries, when you decide that you are tired of beating around the bush. Sure, the two of you kissed, and Dracule liked to touch you and explore you, but ever since that one delightful morning, the well-groomed man never went very far. He always pulled away at the last second when you were just on the verge of begging him for more. You were sick of waiting for Mihawk to make the first move, but you definitely weren't brave enough to make it yourself. 

So that left you having a conversation with him. One that made you embarrassed just to think about. Dracule had phoned earlier that day, the snail phone was the best gift he'd ever given you, and let you know that he would be arriving soon, so you had at least two hours before he got here.

The bedroom was first on your list. It needed a good cleaning, and that would take the longest. Time was running out by the time you finished fluffing the quilts and pillows, and you dashed to the bathroom to wash and shave in the appropriate areas. You knew what you wanted and had to be prepared for it. 

You are still wrapped up in a towel when you hear the front door open, and Hank gives a happy woof to the only man who can just waltz inside your home. You curse yourself for not remembering to grab any clothes and peek out the door of the bathroom. Just as you are trying to creep to the bedroom across the small hallway, a looming shadow blocks the light, and you are caught in a yellow-eyed gaze. 

“Catch you at a bad time, Snow Angel?” Dracule teases with a mean twist of his lips. You blush and quickly retreat to the bedroom, but the warlord is right on your tail. 

“I was trying to finish up before you got here,” you tell him as Mihawk follows you inside and shuts the door behind him. You round the bed, putting the queen-size between the two of you. “You are early.” 

The warlord scoffs, “I am never late or early, Darling. I always arrive precisely when I mean to,” he eyes you from over the bed, and you gulp when you see his gaze darken a shade, “And what a treat it is to arrive home to see you in nothing but a towel.” 

The word home catches in your brain, leaving you stalling a bit. He's said it once or twice before, and it always leaves you a mess. How can he call this place home so casually when Dracule himself has told you that the sea has been his home for most of his life? It left you reeling every time you realized how much you mean to him. How much he meant to you. 

A warm hand landing on your arm knocks you from your thoughts, and you jerk your head up to see Dracule giving you a look of concern. You smile at him, feeling bold in his boat of playfulness. 

“Maybe you should take it off?” You suggest and are treated with the rare sight of taking Mihawk by surprise. His eyes widen, and you watch in fascination as his golden eyes turn molten. A mean smirk curls his mouth at the side. 

“Is that what you want? Do you want me to touch you, sweet thing? Do you want me to show you all the ways I could make you come?” Dracule snarls the filthy words, pushing himself closer to you at the end of every question. Mihawk expects you to back down at his aggression, at showing you how much he desires to have you, to taste you.

A whine leaves your throat, and your hands grasp the edges of the long coat that Dracule still wears. It isn’t often that your warlord stayed dressed in his rather flashy regalia, and it made you ache all the more for the pirate. You force your thoughts into order and lock eyes with his molten gaze. You need him to know that you are being truthful, “I have been wanting you to touch me for a long time, Mihawk. I just didn’t know how to ask.”

The warlord is quiet as he searches your eyes for any hint of uncertainty. When he finds none, Dracule takes a half step back, and his voice is rough when he speaks.

 “Lay on the bed, on your back,” Mihawk orders and looks down at you under the wide brim of his hat. He looks dangerous like this, and you are reminded that Dracule is so much stronger than you are. He clicks his tongue when you take a beat too long, “Don’t keep me waiting, Angel.” 

You turn to hop up on the bed, shimmying back so that your head lies against the pillows. A shiver wracks your body, and you swallow harshly when Dracule follows you up. He rests on his knees, and you can’t help how your devil fruit reacts when he reaches for the edges of your towel. It’s one thing for Mihawk to see your upper half, you liked when he laved your breasts with attention, but he has never seen you naked before. 

“Relax, sweet thing,” Dracule rumbles above you and leans down so that he can kiss your brow, “I will stop when you ask me.” 

“Okay,” you whisper and sigh heavily when you take a deep breath and relax into the bed. Dracule kisses your cheek, and then he pulls away to take hold of your towel, easing it away from where you have it tucked around you. A low, pleased sound escapes him when you are revealed to him. 

“Beautiful, every inch of you,” Mihawk praises and then proceeds to pinch your left nipple. You hiss at the prick of pain, though a soft groan follows when he rubs your sensitive nub between his thumb and forefinger. His other hand follows the curve of your body down to your hip where he rubs gentle circles there, and you relax further into the bed, eyes fluttering closed as you give up control of the situation to Dracule. 

Mihawk soaks in every reaction you have to his touch. He experiments, smoothing his hands up and down your body, seeing what you enjoy best. When you like it soft, and when you like when he gets a little rougher. He scoots down, ringed eyes raking down your body until he spies the apex of your legs and the neat thatch of hair that hides your most sensitive parts away. 

The warlord grasps your legs and lifts them from the bed. He gently opens your legs, pushing them up so that your feet rest on the bed and your knees sway in the air. Mihawk kisses your knee, smoothing his calloused hands down your thighs, and curls one around the inside of your leg, keeping you spread for him. 

Frost has begun to creep up your legs, and the cold of your devil fruit and the heat that Dracule puts off make every unexpected touch feel like a live wire against your skin. One hand moves to skate down your leg and dusts the frost away.

“I’ve got you, Darling,” Mihawk croons above you, and then his middle and ring fingers are sliding through the folds of your cunt. Your eyes fly open and you look up only to lock eyes with the entranced look that the warlord sports. He looks in a trance as he gently rubs his fingers back and forth, humming in content when slick gathers on them. 

You watch, eyes tracking his hand, as Dracule brings those two fingers up to his mouth and wraps his lips around them. He cleans his fingers and gives you such a lewd grin afterward that you have to look away from him. Who knew that such a sophisticated man was such a pervert?

There isn’t much time to think about it, not when Mihawk slides those same fingers back through your folds, stroking you in a perfect rhythm that has you arching off the bed. 

Dracule's other hand holds you down, making sure you stay still for this, and crooks his middle finger, slowing to a stop. He had made sure to get you significantly wet just for this, and he sighed in delight when he sank his digit inside of your throbbing hole. Your pussy sucks him down to the last knuckle, so wet from slick and his saliva that it is an easy stretch. 

You suck in a sharp breath at the intrusion. It doesn’t hurt. You’ve touched yourself before, but having someone else do it is an entirely new feeling of bliss. You whine when Dracule begins a slow pace, and it isn’t long before he is pressing his ring finger in along with the other. Pleasure builds, and you lose yourself, hips rutting against his hand as heat coils tight in your stomach.

Mihawk’s thumb suddenly catches your clit and the sharp press against the over sensitive button has you hiss his name as you come, walls clenching around his fingers and you see spots with how hard you've clenched your eyes. 

Dracule smirks, satisfaction curling hot in his chest. His cock aches in his pants, and he longs to shuck them off and slip inside your inviting warmth. But he holds himself back, instead gently pulling his fingers from your fluttering cunt and sticking them right back in his mouth to clean off. 

“Is that all you want, Dear One?” Mihawk murmurs above you and dips to press his cheek to your own, lips ghosting over your ear as he speaks, “Or do you want more?” 

While he waits, Mihawk presses chaste kisses and sucks gentle hickies along your skin, the hand on your hip rubs soothing circles there, occasionally dipping down to touch your swollen clit teasingly. 

You roll your head, lips seeking his in a kiss that is more tongue and teeth than anything else. Dracule licks into your mouth, spit leaking down your chin as the messy kiss continues. You shift your hips, making his hand fall between your legs, and you break the kiss long enough to plead for more. 

“Don't stop, Dracule, please.” 

The warlord doesn't need to be told twice. He kisses you one last time before sliding down and taking a nipple between his teeth. His thumb finds your clit and presses harsh half circles into it, sending shocks through your body. Your hands find his hair, weaving through the dark locks and scraping your nails along his scalp. Mihawk growls low in his throat at the blunt pain, and bites your nipple in retaliation. 

You yelp and send a glare down at him, but Dracule is already soothing the hurt with a sweet lap of his tongue that has you sighing. He moves to the other nipple, giving it the same attention as the first before he shuffles further, trailing a hot line of kisses down past your navel. You open your eyes, licking your lips when you realize how far he's moved down. 

“What,” you swallow harshly, “What are you doing?” 

The look you receive is one of pure want, his ringed eyes blazing as they lock with your own, “I want to taste you, sweet thing. I've not had my fill of you quite yet.” 

The sound that leaves your throat is a mix of a squeak and a moan, and you drop your head back to the pillow, “O-okay,” you stutter out. You weren't about to argue with him. 

Dracule smirks and presses a kiss right below your belly button, and then down he goes. He shoulders your thighs open, and then looks up to watch your expression when he lolls his tongue out and swipes the hot muscle along your puffy folds. He watches your mouth drop in a silent moan, hips stuttering in his hold as he does it again. 

Mihawk swirls his tongue, saliva pooling in his mouth and dripping down to join the slick clinging to your pussy. It's lewd, and messy, and your cheeks are on fire as you listen to the wet sounds of Dracule eating you out. 

You curse when his lips find your clit, nails digging into his scalp when Mihawk sucks on the nub, tongue lapping until you are jerking your hips and accidentally forcing his face in your cunt as you come. You hear him groan as you gush around his face, and you shake when you feel his tongue probe forward to lap at your hole, making sure not a drop of your essence was wasted. 

You release his hair, and when Dracule rises, the warlord looks thoroughly debauched. Slick and spit are smeared along his face, and his usual perfect facial hair has been mused this way and that. Mihawk looks devine like this, and arousal is already stirring in your gut, just looking at him. He wipes his mouth and then shuffles up the bed to lay beside you. 

Dracule pulls you into his arms, curling them around you and tugging until you lay splayed across him. He hums as your weight settles across him, hand sweeping into your hair to gently massage your scalp.

“Are you okay, dear one?” He asks quietly and peers down at you, yellow eyes seeming to glow in the low light of your bedroom. 

You nod easily, “Better than okay, Dracule,” you assure him and place a loving kiss on his chest. The two of you still needed to have an actual talk about this, but that could wait. The two of you would have plenty of time later. 

@writingmysanity @kenkenmaaa @foggyturtleknightangel @browneyedhufflepuff @goth-mami-writer @myradiaz @djbumblebee @fluffybunnyu @bookandstar

[aqua-the-smiter]

Healing takes a long, long time. Who knows. It may never come. Cato Sicarius x female reader you are his only solace PART 3, APPARENTLY. I DON'T KNOW HOW THIS HAPPENED. Divider by @squishyowl . I'm sorry I keep @ing you but Cato is living rent fucking free in my head Song - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0z53F9I-93M

Fall with me, come on and fall with me, into the dark and scary hole inside the bottom of the sea ------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Things weren't perfect. But they seemed to be better, at least. Even if only marginally.

Cato was happier than you'd ever seen him in the weeks since you got together. At least, when he was with you. He was a surprisingly affectionate man once you got past his shell. He was still lonely, still in pain, but he had you, and he loved you. And he wasn't ashamed to show it either.

Some Ultramarines congratulated him on it. A few seemed a little envious. That one ambassador that Cato had had less pleasant dealings had glared at you like you insulted her mother. Overall though, the reaction was positive. Even Lord Guilliman seemed pleased, laying a hand on Cato's shoulder.

Astartes getting girlfriends wasn't common, but it wasn't entirely unheard of either. Most kept quiet about it. While he didn't trumpet from the rooftops about you, he wasn't afraid to kiss you or let you kiss him in public when you accompanied him, or allow you to hold his hand, or slip your hand around his elbow (as best you could) so the two of you could walk arm and arm together.

And flowers. You loved flowers, and every day when he came to you he'd present you with some, weaving them into your hair or tucking them behind your ears. You got the impression he enjoyed finding and giving them to you as much as you enjoyed receiving them, and you were filling out a whole book full of pressed and dried blooms.

He even had a pet name for you. Peahen, after the female of the numerous peafowl that inhabited Macragge. They had been brought over by early settlers and found a very comfortable niche for themselves. The males were especially pretty, with cobalt blue bodies and magnificent, long tails of green and iridescent eye spots that could spread out into a huge fan of feathers. The females were less showy, with plain brown and white feathers, but even they had a splash of bright blue and green on their necks. And the chicks were absolutely adorable.

The name always made you giggle. You supposed Cato was a like a peacock with his bright blue armor and plumed helmet. Your peacock.

For your part, you made up for things by being equally as affectionate as possible. It was pretty clear that he needed it. Giving it to him as freely as he did to you. You would let him scoop you up and carry you around just because he felt like doing it, or rest his head in your lap when he was particularly frustrated or put out. Stroking his hair, whispering to him softly that things would be just fine. He didn't seem like he believed it, but it made him happy to hear from you.

But...it was still pretty clear he wasn't doing well, and that irritated you to no end. You wanted to help him. You want to scream at everyone who made him feel like he had nobody to talk to about his troubles. And you would, too. You felt fiercely protective of him.

It was like he was in a hole. A deep, dark pit in his own head that he couldn't climb out of. Or he'd just gotten used to sitting in the dirt. Sometimes misery and pain could be awful comfortable if you lived with it long enough. Even if you didn't want it to be. Or if not that, then extremely hard to crawl out of. Like a tar pit.

And you weren't the only one who noticed his poor state, either.

Roboute Guilliman leaned back in his chair. In one hand was a mug of steaming mountain laurel tea. On a very small clear spot on his desk was a small plate that held some Eldar sweets Yvraine had brought for their weekly chat over tea. She held her teacup in the toes of her left foot, a plate in her right hand, and her gryrinx Alorynis tucked under her left arm. He kept trying to fling himself into Guilliman's lap, which he seemed to prefer because it was bigger.

He loved these meetings with her. They had become a weekly thing under the guise of "negotiation", and she was an accepted sight around the Fortress of Hera. It was nothing short of a relief to have her to talk to.

"Let him sit." Roboute said, amused as he watched the feline struggle.

"He'll get your lovely blue toga covered in sheddings." Yvraine said, sipping her tea. Placing Alorynis in his lap anyway. The gryrinx immediately curled into a happy ball, purring.

He stroked the creature's back, smiling. Although she could see it didn't reach his eyes. "I don't mind. I like cats."

"Robu, you're frowning again." She poked his wrinkled forehead. "What's on your mind this time?"

"Nothing unusual. I am concerned about one of my sons. Among other things."

"Which one?" She said, amused. "You have so many. I'm jealous."

He snorted. "Very funny, you unbearable xenos witch. It is Cato Sicarius."

"Ah yes. The one who never smiles."

"Most Astartes don't smile too often." Roboute pointed out.

"He only has two expressions from what I've seen. Grinding his teeth behind his lips, and a thousand yard stare."

"He's been happier recently. But that's because of his serf, I believe. The root problem is still there."

Despite her teasing, her expression was sympathetic. "What do you mean?"

"He used to be a very...arrogant man. He has gone through much humbling since, but I do not think all of it has been beneficial. I think he is as bad as he was in some aspects, but in the very different way. Instead of pride, it is pain that guides his actions. Although he adamantly refuses to talk about it to anyone."

"Have you tried asking him directly? He wouldn't refuse you."

"No, but forcing him to speak will do no good either. It will make him more evasive and mistrustful." He sighed. "I have asked, but only vaguely. I do not want to be overbearing to my Astartes, but I am worried about Cato. He pulls away from his brothers, and from me. He isolates himself, and wanders around in the night. There is no light in his eyes."

"Do you have any idea as to why?" Yvraine asked. "Maybe he just prefers to be alone."

"No. Some years ago, a ship he was traveling on got lost in the Warp. It was trapped for five years, aimless and constantly being invaded by daemons and Warpborn horrors. Many of his men died. I believe it has traumatized him."

Yvraine's ears flicked up in surprise. She looked sober. "I didn't know that was even possible. What does an Angel of Death need to see that will scar his mind so deeply?"

"It is very possible. Nobody likes to talk about it, but it is. Granted, it is also not common. In that you are correct. It takes a special kind of hell to leave that kind of scarring."

"But I suppose being lost in the Warp for five years is as special kind of hell."

"It is."

"He also doesn't seem to popular with your boys. I've heard some...less than flattering remarks."

"You probably hear everything with those ears." He said with a small smile. She snorted a laugh. "He is...a divisive figure. Many respect him. Many cannot stand him. I know one of my ambassadors really dislikes him."

"I've heard people calling him sexist."

"He is not. That rumor is stupid." Roboute said, thoroughly tired of it. "I thought my sons were more mature, but apparently not."

"Boys will be boys Robu." She pinched his cheek.

He sighed. "I wish to help him, but I don't know how. And..." He trailed off, uncertain of how much to share.

"Go on Robu. You know I won't breathe a word of it."

She read him like an open book. He loved that woman. "The mission I sent the Redeemed on. It is a success so far. If all goes well, I will be off to Medusa soon. If that goes well, I will need Cato then. And I will need him at his sharpest. Beyond, even."

The Redeemed were a...peculiar chapter of Astartes under Roboute's direct control. They were perfectly normal, except for the fact that it was entirely made up of former Chaos and traitor marines. He had a soft spot for them, and they were by far his best weapon against daemons and Warp spawn of all kinds.

"Ah. The thing with your brother?"

"Yes." That was the end of that train of discussion. "I know I cannot rush his healing, but I do not believe he has even begun to heal. His wounds still bleed. I fear if I try and intervene I will make things worse. I do not wish to hurt him."

"You said he had a serf he's fond of. It seems he's not entirely without comfort."

"He loves her. And it is good he has her. He does not trust his brothers with this. He does not trust me with this. Let him have her. Someone."

"I think you could reach out to him too. Don't force him, but merely inquire. Tell him you've noticed his change in behavior and be honest about your concerns. You are still his father, after a strange fashion. Maybe he could use some kind words from his Primarch. His Primarch certainly needs kind words too from time to time."

He smiled at that. "Not inaccurate. I will see what I can do. Maybe talk to his serf as well."

"See? There's the Robu I know. Always making plans." She patted his head. "And you are still as infuriating as ever." "Shut up and drink your tea before it gets cold." ------------------------------------------------------------------------------

It was a beautiful evening. The light of the setting sun was golden, the day was warm and the breeze was cool. It was nice enough that even the Ultramarines took notice, spending their small amount of free time outside in snatches.

Cato sighed. The wind made his robes ripple and flutter. He'd received a note inviting him to share a jug of wine and some small talk with a few other officers. His first instinct was to refuse, but then he remembered he was trying to retain some semblance of normality. So now he felt obligated to show up. He would have brought you with him, but you were fast sleep in the sunshine. Instead he'd covered you up with his cape and let you nap. You were cute like that anyway.

He found the others sitting in the shade of an old willow tree, the wind rustling the long branches. It sounded like rattling bones. Marneus, Uriel, and Demetrian were scattered across the benches around the trunk. They all looked unusually relaxed and in good spirits.

"Sicarius."

"Cato."

"Cato."

He sat on the edge of the bench Titus was on, who promptly handed him a clay cup. The liquid inside was a dark red, dry and sour tasting.

"Chapter master, Uriel, Titus." He nodded to each. "I wasn't expecting an invitation. Did anything special happen?" He asked, keeping his tone neutral.

"Can't we just want to enjoy your company?" Titus asked, smacking his shoulder.

He snorted. "Nobody enjoys my company. I thought that was established."

"That serf of yours seems to enjoy it. Congratulations on that." Uriel smiled at him. "I never would have guessed you to be the type to seek out something like that."

Titus nodded. "It's very rare, but not unheard of. I know the Chapter Master had a girl once, when he was young and attractive."

Calgar raised a grayed eyebrow. "What do you mean was?"

"Well...you are old." Uriel offered.

"Brilliant observation Ventris. It's that tactical genius that made you captain of the fourth."

Uriel and Titus both snickered at that. Cato offered a small smile at the Chapter Master's witticism. He took a sip of the wine to offset the fact that he wasn't laughing. A small one, though. It was starting to look a bit too much like blood for his comfort.

Then Marneus's gaze turned squarely on Cato. "But I'm not so old that a replacement needs to be considered yet. Sicarius."

He nearly choked on his wine. "Who, me? Absolutely not. I don't want to be Chapter Master. Keep your chair."

The thought was utterly laughable. He had aspired to it. Once. Not anymore though. he'd already proved himself too incompetent for that seat.

That earned him three raised eyebrows.

"What happened to you, Cato?" Uriel asked. "I thought you were counting down the days until Calgar was unavailable."

"I was. When I was young, and still had hope." He replied, then seeing the looks he was getting, "But it doesn't look like our venerable Chapter Master will be abdicating anytime soon." He added, forcing a joke.

"1st Captain Severus will be pleased to hear it." Titus told him with a grin.

"Seems I get a break from young upstarts for a while." Calgar said wryly.

"And when the time comes may someone worthy take your place."

He held up his cup in salute to the chapter master. Hoping that they believed his words were true. Because they were. Someone worthy. Not him.

The others raised their cups in return before taking a swig.

"Maybe one of you two." He added.

Titus shook his head. "I think I'm happier where I am."

"I never considered it." Uriel admitted. "I try to keep my aspirations reasonable."

"You would be a good pick though." Titus mused, agreeing with Cato.

He nodded.

"You have the track record." Calgar nodded slowly. "If you're not dead by the time I am, and if Agemman doesn't want to job for some reason."

"You're a hero, Uriel. The things you have accomplished go beyond even our line of duty." Cato said. "I believe you have a lot of qualities the Primarch likes to see in us as well. That might make you more a favorable choice."

"Don't sell yourself short Cato. You have done a lot of good too. Lord Guilliman wouldn't have made you captain of the Victrix for nothing."

The wine was starting to acquire an oddly metallic taste. Like iron. "Everything I have done has come off the heels of a spectacular blunder."

"I got sent off to Medrenguard because I didn't follow the Codex Astartes. Remember?"

Cato shook his head. "You did what needed to be done. I sent my men to their deaths."

"The Emperor's Will was not your fault, Sicarius." Calgar interjected. "Blaming yourself accomplishes nothing."

"And what about the losses at Damnos? Or Black Reach? I have proven time and time again that I am not a good commander."

"There is no leader of men who has only victories. Not even Lord Guilliman can claim that. You have failed, and you have failed hard. That is certainly true. But you have learned from it since. I doubt you would make the same mistakes again. Would you?"

"Of course not."

"There you have it then."

He felt a warmth in his chest for a moment before the doubts he held to be truths reasserted themselves. He had missed this. This fellowship. It was like he had been gifted a taste of the brotherhood he had lost, and he hadn't realized how bitterly he had missed it.

"That is something easier said than applied." He countered, and before he could stop himself, added. "Some things still haunt me."

It eve smelled like blood now.

Uriel nodded sagely. "I still think about the things I saw on Medrenguard sometimes. Although time has sanded the edges a great deal."

"Yes, of course." He said, a little too quickly. "It always does. But it's still unpleasant."

It didn't. He thought. Everything is still as sharp and painful as ever. Do you still smell the charnel reek? Do you still hear the screaming and moaning of the poor wretches of the Daemonculaba? Is your sleep full of daemon music and rot? Do you see Tyranids in every shadow and Iron Warriors in every doorway?

Time hadn't healed any of his wounds. He could still feel them, deep in his mind, pulsing with pain and oozing infection. That's how he felt. Like an infected wound. He had simply gotten worse and worse over time. That's why he was in this state now. Both his honor and his mind in pieces.

He wondered why they had asked him here in the first place. His hand shook, and he put the wine cup down. It all tasted like blood anyway. He wasn't like them. They were all heroes. They were everything an Ultramarine was supposed to be.

Maybe that's why he was here. So he could see everything that he wasn't.

He fell silent for the most part after that, listening to the other three and occasionally answering yes or no to some question or another. As quickly as that moment of warmth had come it was gone, and he felt hollow again.

Eventually he stood up to take his leave.

"Wait." He turned to see Titus holding out a few long sprigs of mountain laurels. Clusters of beautiful, star shaped white, pink and red flowers.

"Take these to your lady. I notice you've been bringing her flowers all the time." He said with a smile. Cato took them with a nod of gratitude.

"She likes them. Thank you."

"Good luck with her." Titus called after him, before his expression turned stony.

He was going to have to talk to someone about this. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ "Peahen." Cato called softly, opening the door to his quarters.

You were awake, sewing up a few ragged edges on his broad red cape. Looking up, your face broke into a wide grin when you saw him, and the gorgeous flowers he had for you. Putting your sewing down, you sprung into him like a rabbit into a trap. He gathered you up in his arms and held you tightly. Tucking the laurels into your hair.

"They're beautiful Cato. Thank you so much." You beamed at him. Cupping his cheeks in your hands, you pressed a soft kiss to his lips.

He smiled. Feeling all his earlier distress draining away as he held you close. You could see his expression soften, the tension drop from his shoulders.

"One of my brothers suggested them." He said.

"He has good taste." You ran your fingers gently over the petals. "You know you don't have to bring me flowers every day." He sat down, pulling you into his lap. "Maybe not. But seeing your eyes light up every time I present you with some makes it worth doing. I like making you happy."

You snuggled against him, as content as a cat with a stolen fish. "I appreciate it. You know I've saved every single one. I'm filling a book with them."

"Really?"

"Yep." You nodded. "I dry and press them. It's like a record of sorts. Since we...became and item."

He took your small hand in his and squeezed it.

"I want to make you happy too." You told him.

"You make me happy just by being here."

He kissed your cheek.

"You are my solace."

You pulled one of the springs of laurel from your hair and tucked it behind his ear. "You look so handsome Cato."

"I love you." He whispered. Holding you close. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ "Titus." Roboute greeted his son as he walked into his office.

"Lord Primarch." He returned. "Am I interrupting anything?"

He sighed. "Nothing out of the ordinary, lieutenant. Is something wrong? You look troubled."

"Forgive me if this is nothing, but I felt that I needed to speak to someone about this." Titus began. "I...believe there is something going on with Cato."

To his surprise Roboute's expression darkened almost immediately. "Tell me." ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Hole-dwelling, hole-dwelling, hole-dwelling, you’re just like me

[pls-hold-me-im-justa-weeb]

Hello 👀 I see your asks are open and u write for One Piece so I'd like to ask for my 4 favorite strawhats, Sanji, Brook, Usopp, and Franky with a reader who is very romantic and likes to take them on dates and do really romantic gestures like buying flowers or randomly hugging them from behind and being generally flirty like a sort of Casanova but is not used to the same type of affection towards themselves so whenever it does happen they get sort of flustered or choked up.

For Sanji he cooks the reader a special dinner. For Brook he writes them a song. For Usopp he makes them like a matching ring. For Franky he maybe he puts on a special show of fireworks for them. And the moment is very special for both of them.

Thank u 💗💗

Yes my lovely!!! I'm honestly the same as the reader, so this was a fun thing to write and I think I fell in love with these characters a lil more.

G/n reader, and neutral nicknames. No use of Y/N.

Warnings: Cheesy, sappy romance. Reader crying from happiness from a romantic gesture. (these aren't really warnings but whatev) It's a lot of fluff y'all.

No spoilers, and all characters can be either pre or post timeskip. (except in Franky's version, because Usopp has his plants and seeds but that's it, and really you can pretend it's pre timeskip)

Brook

"Hey there, handsome. I brought you some tea" you said, winking at your boyfriend as you set the tray down.

"Ah! Thank you so much, I love you down to your bones! YOHOHOHOHOHO!"

You giggled at his bad joke, and curled your arms around him for a hug. You breathed in his scent- sea salt and paper, with an underlying scent of whatever he used to polish his violin. You nestled your face in his afro, letting it tickle your nose.

"Well I love your music" you whispered, pecking his cheekbone. He stiffened, and you could've sworn he was blushing, but it may have been a trick of the setting sun.

"Th-thank you" he answered, wrapping an arm around you as you sat beside him. You noticed scrapped paper crumpled into balls nearby, tossed carelessly behind the skeleton's shoulder.

"Whatcha workin on?" you asked. Brook spluttered on his tea, and you thumped his back.

"Ah! Nothing, nothing!"

You tilted your head in confusion, frowning. He never hid songs from you.

"C'mon babe, you know I'll love it even if it's bad"

"...I want it to be perfect before you hear it."

You looked at him, blinking. He was acting odd.

"Fine. But I'm taking you on a date tomorrow" you said, shrugging.

"Alright... Wait- that makes no sense!"

You laughed. In your mind it made perfect sense. He was working so hard on composing a song that he needed to be perfect even for you to hear- the person he trusted with his worst and best songs. If it needed to be perfect for you, it must be really stressing him out.

"Let me treat you since you've been working so hard on this" you said gently. Brook sighed, looking defeated as he slouched.

"Just... would you be so kind as to come see me tonight? Perhaps on the balcony of the crows nest?"

"Sure, the usual time?" you asked with a smile. He nodded, looking at you softly. Or at least you thought so, sometimes it was hard to tell, but usually you could read his emotions pretty well. You kissed his cheek as a goodbye and got up to go bother Sanji as he prepared dinner, hopefully sneaking bits of food when he wasn't looking.

Dinner was as delicious and chaotic as usual, but you noticed your boyfriend seemed a little out of it. Was that song bothering him more than he was letting on? Was something else going on? You decided to ask him about it when you met with him later. Dinner ended, and you decided to join Chopper, Luffy, Nami and Usopp in the aquarium for dessert and tea while playing a card game. You were surprised Brook wasn't joining, he always seemed to be around when tea was served.

You played a few rounds of the game, throwing down your cards in defeat as you groaned.

"Well losing is great and all, but I got a date with my lovely boyfriend. Have fun, guys!" You left with a smile and a wave. You climbed to the deck and then scaled the ropes up to the crows nest. An odd light was coming from the direction of the balcony, and you furrowed your brow. You entered the crows nest. Moonlight streamed in through the windows, silver pooling on the wood of the floor. It smelled nice for once, not like the usual sweat and booze of Zoro. You looked around, and gasped when your eyes fell towards the balcony.

A trail of rose petals lined by candles led to the balcony door, which was propped open. Cushions and blankets were deliberately placed to make a sort of nest, and more candles lit the area in a soft glow. The stars above shone bright, the full moon adding to the delicate light. Brook was standing looking out into the night. You took a few tentative steps forward, soaking in the floral scent of the rose petals.

Brook turned around, holding sheets of paper in his hand. If he had lips, you knew he'd be smiling softly at you.

"Brook..." you whispered, trailing off.

"Come here, my love." He held out a hand, and you followed the candle-lined trail into his arms. You held him tightly, crushing his ribs. He chuckled painfully.

"Please, sit down. I wrote this for you." His voice was deep and smooth, sending warmth cascading over you like a warm blanket.

"W-what is all this? Why?" You let go of him, bewildered. He eased you down to sit on the cushions and wrapped a blanket around your shoulders. His feet shuffled him away behind two music stands you hadn't noticed before, each holding a piece of paper. He picked up his violin and bow, letting it hang a little in his grip.

"You do so much for me. You take me on dates, bring me things, listen and adore my music, and so much more. I wanted to do something for you, just because... well, you deserve it. I wrote this for you, but I'm still not sure I captured how just beautiful your soul is. So please, bear with me."

You tried so hard not to cry. Your throat was burning with the effort, and you could feel your eyebrows scrunched upwards. You looked at him with wide eyes, chin wobbling.

He chuckled at you, and brought up his violin to his chin, readying himself. He took a breath in, and began to play. It was beautiful, pure, and sweet. It had a slow tempo, but slowly increased as he opened his mouth to sing.

It was dark, all alone.

A promise I kept, but I yearned for death.

I met a man, who accepted me and took me in

and I thought I had a reason to live again.

But you. You stole my breath.

If I had a heart, you would've stolen it too.

The promises to keep living were almost forgotten

'cause when I'm with you, darlin

I could never wish for us to part

I may not have a heart, but I have a soul.

And that, I give you entirely.

Accept my love, because you've shown me yours.

Please, my angel.

Be mine, forever.

Tears were streaming down your face by the time the first word came out of his mouth, and by the time he ended the lyrics, you had to clamp a hand over your mouth to stifle the sobs. You wanted to listen to him, but you were so overwhelmed with love, you could only cry.

The music faded off with a gentle, smooth note, and you finally let yourself let out a sob. You heard shuffling from your boyfriend, and he grabbed one of your wet hands to place a handkerchief in it. You stuttered out a thanks and he brought you to his chest.

"Please tell me these are good tears" he murmured in your ear. You nodded frantically, and threw your arms around him.

"Please sing it again sometime. I can't handle it right now but another time? I just... I just love you s-so muuuuch!"

"Oh my angel. I love you too"

Note: I wrote the lyrics myself so if you don't like it don't tell me because I'm a baby

Franky

There were strange sounds coming from Franky's workshop, luring you to the belly of the Thousand Sunny to wonder what the hell your boyfriend could be doing. You approached the door, ignoring the 'keep out' signs that you knew weren't aimed at you. Muted voices you recognized as Usopp and Franky floated through the crack at the bottom of the door. You pressed your ear against the cool metal, picking up words here and there.

"...gotta be... for her... can you... shavings or would... better?" Franky's gravely voice muttered.

"Hmmm... be loud... but there's this that'll... does that sound alright?" Usopp responded. Obviously they were planning something, but what? Nobody's birthday was coming up, at least that you were aware of. Maybe Nami asked for some improvements on her weapon? You knocked, curious.

"Babe? It's me!" you called opening the door. You heard quick shuffling and a fearful squawk from Usopp.

"Oi! Careful! That stuff's explosive!" he hissed at your boyfriend.

A small smile curved your lips as you raised a brow. Franky was obviously hiding something behind his broad frame.

"Thought I told you to include me in projects with explosives" you teased, crossing your arms.

"I-I... Uh... It's not what it looks like!" Franky stuttered, waving his hands in front of his face. You giggled.

"Relax hon. I don't know enough about Nami's weapon to be of any help. I just heard some weird noises and wanted to see what was going on"

"Nami's-?" Franky was cut off with a loud exclamation from Usopp.

"Oh! You wanted to see my plants, right? See what they can do and how I harvest the seeds?"

That effectively caught your attention, despite the obvious tactic, and your eyes lit up in curiosity. His plants were much more interesting to you than the complexities of Nami's weather science.

"Oh right! I forgot I said that!"

"I have some spare time now, want me to show you?" he asked, with a smile as he crowded you towards the door. You glanced at your boyfriend over his shoulder. He just sent you a small wave with a grin.

"Bye my love! My sweetie! My genius cyborg! My-" Usopp cut you off as he shut the door, leaving you with an imprint of your boyfriend turning more into a blushing mess with each exclaimed pet name.

"Gross" he muttered. You stuck your tongue out at his back, but didn't say anything. You didn't want to ruin your rare opportunity for him to explain the weird plants he cultivated on board. The two of you talked for hours, getting distracted easily when the captain pulled the two of you into a weird game that you ended up winning, much to your confusion.

Eventually it was dinner, and Franky showed up late before promptly chugging some cola. He seemed... off. Nervous? Excited? Whichever it was, he was preoccupied. He barely spoke during dinner, and gave short answers when he was addressed. Dinner finally ended, and you were tasked with helping Sanji do dishes, but knew the cook would understand if you wanted to check on your boyfriend first.

"Franky?"

"Hm?"

"You okay?"

"Huh? Oh yeah. I'm fine" he said easily. You tilted your head, keeping eye contact.

"You seemed preoccupied during dinner."

Franky sighed, "I am. The project I'm working on... can you meet me tonight?"

You smiled and nodded eagerly. "Sure thing, I'll meet you after I finish helping Sanji out. How can I say no to my Superrrr hero?" you struck the pose he often did, wrists above your head and a wide grin on your face. It drew a laugh from Franky's broad chest, and the sound washed over you like a warm wave.

A hand gently ruffled your hair as he passed by. You caught it, and raised his knuckles to your lips. He smelled like metal. His cheeks tinged red as you let go of his hand and walked back into the kitchen, swaying your hips just a little more than usual to grab his attention. You looked over your shoulder, catching his gaze flicking up from your ass to meet your eyes. A blush tinged his cheeks and ears, and he quickly spun to walk out. You snorted, and exchanged a knowing look with the cook.

You talked pleasantly with Sanji, discussing each other's day. He asked about what you learned with Usopp, and you gladly filled him in. You asked him about his professional opinion as to whether he would change any of the dishes he served today at all, and he told you his plans. It was easy conversation that accompanied your dish washing system, making it seem to go by quickly. Soon enough, the dishes were washed, dried, and put away. You dried your hands, grabbing some cola from the fridge for you and Franky to share while he showed you your project. You happily said goodbye to Sanji, who sent you a knowing look. You blushed with a chuckle.

You made your way to the deck, searching for Franky.

"Oi! Up here!" he called. Your head whipped around towards the sound of his voice at the helm. You smiled, jogging up to him.

"I brought us some Cola!" you announced proudly, holding up the jug. He took it in his large hands and placed it on the ground with a soft smile. You cocked your head. Normally he opened it and offered you the first sip. What was he doing? He stepped back and gestured behind him.

"Come here. I want to show you something."

You were confused, but trusted him whole heartedly, so you stepped towards him. Once close enough, he put a hand on your shoulder and turned to reveal a cozy setup- a wide, freestanding hammock with pillows and blankets for optimal comfort. The hammock wouldn't curl up and around the person, but rather was held open by wooden slats at the short ends of the hammock that had holes drilled in for the many ropes that tied back to the wooden frame. The hammock material obviously had a high thread count according the the gentle sheen you could see in the moonlight. The wooden frame was carved into swirls, suns, and moons. You gasped. It was beautiful craftsmanship.

"This is the project? It's... amazing" you whispered.

"This? No. Just took a couple hours. The real project you haven't seen yet. Now sit down and get cozy!" he urged with a nudge on your lower back. You needed no further encouragement. You sunk into the hammock with an appreciative sound. He sat next to you, and you let yourself fall into his embrace under the blankets.

"So what's the real project?" you asked. Your new pillow rumbled as Franky laughed.

"You'll see." He pulled out a tiny den-den mushi and called someone on it. As soon as the person on the other end picked up, he said a simple order, a handsome smirk curving his lips.

"Light it up"

"Roger" Usopp replied from the other end. You gawked at your boyfriend. What in the-

BOOM

You flinched reflexively as the sound cracked through the sky, and you swung your gaze towards the direction of it. Beautiful colored streaked down in a sparking sphere before fading to nothing. You gaped at the sky, frozen in awe.

BOOM SHHHH BOOM

Firework after firework was set off, shape after shape. They slowly got more intricate. A blue star, tangerine, kitchen knife, katana, straw hat with a red ribbon, skull, slingshot, flower, pair of antlers, and finally, as the finale, a portrait of you. You gaped at the glimmering lights falling through the sky, painting a line drawing of what was undeniably, you. You looked beautiful though, smiling happily into the distance as your form faded into the stars.

"Franky..." you breathed. You clutched a fist over your chest, trying to fight down tears. He did this... for you? His large form shifted so he was looking at your face.

"Baby, now you see how I see you. You're the day to my night, the moon to my star. I love you with everything I am, but you fluster me too much for me to say much, and we're so busy every day that I can't find the time like this very often to show you. You deserve everything you could ever want. I love you."

His confession broke the weak dam that was holding back your tears, and you sniffled as you looked at him, gripping onto his unbuttoned shirt. You finally thudded your forehead against his hard chest, and he chuckled, running a hand up and down your back soothingly.

"Frankyyyyy!!!" you wailed. He held you closer, picking you up and letting you lay on top of him.

"It's okay. I know you love me too."

You nodded your head, unable to speak through the overwhelming emotions of love for your boyfriend.

(yes the carvings on the hammock and what he said were on purpose)

Sanji

You crept into the kitchen quietly, sneaking up behind the cook as he hummed to himself standing before the stove. There was only a single pan sizzling. You quickly wrapped your arms around his lithe waist, startling him.

"Wha-? AHN~~ MY LOVE!" he swayed dangerously on his feet, hearts in his eyes as he comprehended the situation. You giggled, and pecked the back of his neck. He turned in your arms, and hesitantly wrapped his own around you. The relationship was still somewhat new, and despite your assurances that you loved when he touched you (in any way), he still seemed hesitant. You had a hunch that he was so used to rejection that it was strange to be flirted with so blatantly, but he was adjusting.

"How's the best chef on the Grand Line?" you cooed. He tensed a little at the compliment.

"Best chef on the Grand Line, huh?"

"Of course! But I had a question for you"

He pulled back slightly, his ear twitching towards the pan behind him. He spun the two of you around so your back was facing the stove, and he stirred the ingredients.

"Yes, mon amour? Do you need a snack? Or want me to try a recipe? or do you need a drink? I got some fresh fruit at the last-"

"Sanji!" you said, laughing as you looked at him. He blushed, realizing he was rambling again.

"Sorry! What did you want to ask?"

You cradled his cheeks in your hands, looking deep into his eyes, a smile curving your lips.

"Have you thought about it? What you'll cook when you find the All Blue?"

His blue eye widened, and his jaw was slack. His hands froze behind you, stopping his precise movements.

"Y-you... I don't... mon... Mon Ange" he stuttered and whispered. You cocked your head at the French phrase, not having heard it before.

"Hm?"

In response, he shifted one hand to rest on the middle of your back, and the other curled around your hand that was on his cheek. He swung you to the side, dipping you as he kissed you deeply. Your squeak in response was swallowed by his lips, and a quiet moan squeezed from his chest. You kissed him back desperately, your free hand gripping his flexed bicep as he held you up. He tasted of tobacco and the savory dish he was preparing. He pulled back, licking the connecting string of saliva from his lips with a devilish smirk. He still held you at an angle, hovering above the ground. He placed your hand he was holding gently onto his shoulder, and traced a finger down your arm and held the back of your neck. His thumb brushed over your jaw, and he brought his hand forward to run the back of his index finger down your cheek. You were so sure he could feel the heat of the blush radiating from your skin.

"My Angel" he whispered. You blinked at him. He huffed a small chuckle and pulled you back onto your feet so you were in the same position as before. Your knees felt weak from the sudden display of affection, but he held you steady in his arms.

"Yeah... what?"

"Mon Ange means My angel. That what you are to me."

"O-oh... thank you?"

He smiled, and pressed a kiss to your forehead.

"Don't thank me for telling the truth, darling"

You giggled almost deliriously and hid your face in his chest as he resumed his movements stirring the food on the stove. You stayed there a few more moments, basking in his radiating warmth and adoration. You finally turned your face up to his, a smile curving your lips.

"I came in for a glass of water. Luffy decided that he's going to teach me one of his made up games."

Sanji hummed, smirking.

"Let me know if you need anything stronger than water to get through it" he teased. You rolled your eyes. It couldn't be that bad right? Luffy was... simple.

"I'll let you know" you said, pecking his cheek. You tried to slip from his grip but a hand caught your wrist gently. You looked back, curious. His pale cheeks were tinged a soft pink, and his blue eye flicked between the pan and you, as if he couldn't decide what to look at.

"Sanji?"

He cleared his throat a little.

"Tonight... would you do me the honor of having a private dinner with me?"

You felt your face heat, and you looked to the side, hoping futilely to hide your flustered expression.

"O-of course!"

His hand slid to cradle yours, and he brought your knuckles up to his lips. He placed a gentle kiss on each one before flipping your hand to kiss your palm and the inside of your wrist. You couldn't help but stare at his movements, entranced in the feeling and the pure adoration emanating from is actions. His one visible eye finally met yours with a soft smirk.

"Merci, Mon amour"

Your stomach swooped with butterflies, and you were frozen in place, too flustered to look away or move. You felt your lips start to curve in a dopey lovesick smile.

The door to the eating area suddenly banged open, startling you out of your daze.

"SANJI!! I'M HUNGRY!" Luffy whined. You jumped back, snatching your hand from Sanji's grip. You were usually fine with the PDA he showed you, but the moment felt too intimate to share with anyone else. You could only giggle as the cook turned to glare threatening at your captain.

"Food'll be done soon." he replied in a clipped voice. Luffy blinked at his tone, but was quickly distracted with the scent of the snack Sanji was cooking. You watched as deft, elegant hands plated the food and shoved it towards the ever-hungry captain.

"Thanks for the food!" Luffy chirped to the blonde. He turned to you.

"C'mon! Help me prank Usopp!" He grabbed the plate and bounded out the door without waiting for your response to the sudden change in plans.

"Bastard's a pain in my ass" your boyfriend grumbled under his breath. He handed you the glass of water you had came into the kitchen for. You giggled at his crankiness towards Luffy.

"He can be. I'll see you tonight though, okay? Let me know if I can do anything to help. I'll even wrangle Luffy and Zoro for you"

Sanji rolled his eyes at the name of the swordsman.

"I appreciate the sentiment, but the damn marimo would only sully your hands"

A shout of your name from the deck called you into action. You pressed a quick peck to both of Sanji's cheeks, his forehead, and finally his lips before parting with a final kiss to the back of his hand.

"I'll be waiting for you, my prince!" you cried dramatically as you exited the door. Hearts danced in Sanji's eyes and he swayed as he clutched at his chest.

"AHN~~ MY LOVE!" He collapsed to his knees dramatically as you closed the door.

"Disgusting" rumbled a deep voice from nearby. You rolled your eyes.

"Oh shut the fuck up and go wash your stank, hairy ass, Zoro" you griped. He nearly choked on his sake at your language. You cheerfully ran off to make mischief with the captain, ignoring the swordsman's indignant "Oi!" from behind you. You hoped Sanji heard your remark. Loud laughter from the kitchen made you think he did.

~~~~

It was hours later when you finally were getting ready for the date. You had a busy day, between pranking Usopp, saving Luffy when he fell overboard from Usopp's retaliation, and trying to get Franky to teach you more about the mechanics of the ship. Your brain hurt from the cyborg's lecture, and you finally gave up and decided that you probably just wanted to tinker around with things like Usopp does. That ended rather quickly after you had to make a trip to visit Chopper not even five minutes of working with Usopp.

You dried off the rest of your body from the shower, looking through your clothes for an outfit. This was obviously a date, so you wanted to look somewhat decent. You finally decided on an outfit that was appropriate for the warm weather, and knew highlighted Sanji's favorite features of yours. You stepped out of your room, wondering where on the ship the cook set up.

"Ready?"

You looked to the side. Leaning against the wall, smoking a cigarette was just the man you were looking for. You smiled, nodding.

"You look amazing." He stepped forward to kiss your cheek, and pulled back to look into your eyes

"You said you'd do anything for me right?" he murmured. You nodded.

"Close your eyes for me, my love."

You looked him, curious. He held up a silken tie with a smirk.

"It's going to be a surprise, so close your eyes please."

Your heart skipped a beat, but you followed instructions. The silken strands of the tie tickled your cheeks and eyes. He tied it loosely enough so it just barely touched your lashes, but still somehow stayed up. You felt him step away, as if admiring his work. Strong arms suddenly swept you off your feet, and you just about swooned with the pure strength that was hidden under his typical long sleeves.

He carried you through the ship, and you felt somewhat ridiculous like this, but you wouldn't change it for anything. Keeping your eyes closed made you feel more aware of your surroundings. You could guess as to where he was taking you, but you didn't know for sure.

He finally came to a stop and lowered you to a standing position.

"Keep your eyes closed while I take off the blindfold" he warned. You nodded slightly, anticipation whirling in your gut. His hands dragged up your arms, behind your ears, and finally drifted to the knot behind your head. The silky material released easily, caressing your face with a cool touch. You heard him take a deep breath, as if to calm himself.

"O-okay. Open your eyes"

You blinked a few times to let yourself adjust to the light, and gasped in awe. You were in the aquarium bar. Fairy lights draped from the ceiling, adding a soft light to the area. A table was set up in front of the aquarium glass with a crisp white cloth, fancy plates and bowls and silverware, and a rose placed with obvious care over one. You looked to the side, noticing what looked to be a portable cooking station nearby. Fresh seafood sat in an ice tray nearby. What-?

Sanji cleared his throat, obviously nervous at your lack of response.

"I-I can change a few things, of course. But since you asked earlier, I thought I'd show you what I'd want to cook once we find the All Blue... will you cook and dine with me?"

Overwhelming love and affection washed over you. He was letting you intimately see and experience his passion. You couldn't help but get choked up.

"S-Sanji!" you all but slammed into him, hugging him desperately. His arms wrapped around your back hesitantly.

"Is this too much? Is this bad? Why are you crying my love? Please, I'll do anything"

You let out a wet chuckle at his frantic response. His arms tightened around you.

"It's g-good tears, love. God I'm so in love with you I can't help but cry. Of course I'll cook with you!"

He pulled back, holding you so your hips were still flush but he could look into your eyes. All he could see was unbridled joy and happiness through the tears, a genuine grin puffing your cheeks. He quickly swooped in and kissed away the tears with tiny pecks, tickling you. Your laughter sounded like the bells of heaven to him.

"Mon Ange, I love you."

hhhhhnnnggggg i love this man so much he's such a romantic and so am i and just sdkljlkdfjdfsfdsjil

Usopp

"Usopp! My love! My dearest boyfriend! Captain of 8,000 men!" you called liltingly as you waltzed into his workshop. You snapped your gaze over to him as you heard sudden fumbling and a muttered curse.

"O-oh hey!" he responded, obviously hiding something behind his back. You furrowed your brow. He was always begging to show you his inventions, no matter the failure. He always showed you what he learned.

"What uh... what you got there hon?" You were almost fearful of what he was hiding. You had experienced his slingshot ammunition first hand, and knew he was a prankster. Put those together and you had no clue what you could be in for.

"N-nothing!" he squeaked. He was turning into a really bad liar. You raised a brow, highly skeptical.

"Uh huh. You know better than to prank me in certain ways, right?"

"I do, I do!"

You narrowed your eyes at him. His gaze flicked around the room, avoiding yours. He cleared his throat exaggeratedly.

"So did you need something?"

You sighed with a smile and a shake of your head. If he pranked you, he knew the consequences.

"Oh yeah! Sanji has lunch ready if you're hungry."

His gaze lit up at the mention of food, and immediately turned back around towards his desk. He rummaged around for a second before turning back to you with a wide smile.

"Let's go before Luffy eats it all!" he said, dragging you with him to the deck.

Lunch was great as usual, but Usopp delved back into his workshop after eating enough to make him full. You kept yourself occupied during the afternoon by playing a game with some crewmates. It was obvious he wanted to keep it a surprise for you, and you respected that, but you couldn't stop thinking about it. What would it be? How would he prank you? Was it even a prank? Was it something bad? Why did he want to keep it a secret?

A tap on your arm grabbed your attention again, and you turned towards Chopper.

"It's your turn again. Are you okay? You keep zoning out"

"Hm? Yeah I'm fine. Usopp was just acting a little strange earlier but I'm sure it's either another prank or something like that" you shrugged, grabbing the dice to roll. Chopper hummed at you, quickly absorbed back into the board game.

~~~~

Dinner rolled around, another amazing meal courtesy of Sanji. Usopp showed up late, but you had protected his plate fiercely from the hungry captain.

"No! My boyfriend has been working really hard on a project ALL DAY and needs some food! Take Zoro's or Nami's food!" you chided. Luffy pouted, and you ignored Zoro's and Nami's sounds of indignation. Sanji finally stepped in with an extra plate just for Luffy.

The door finally opened, and your expression changed quickly to a grin as you laid eyes on your long-nosed lover.

"I saved your plate!" you exclaimed, patting the seat beside you. Usopp returned your smile, and eagerly sat next to you. Everyone on the crew knew what it meant to keep a plate untouched from Luffy.

"How was your day?" he asked around a mouthful of food. You started chatting away about the games you played. You started describing how you kept zoning out because you were so curious about his creation.

"That's what I love about you though. Your curiosity and imagination" he murmured in your ear. Heat flooded to your face, and his words effectively shut you up. He looked at you after you were silent for a minute, staring at your now-empty plate. You saw him smiling sheepishly out of the corner of your eye as he shoved the last bite of food into his cheeks, puffing them out. He leaned forward, and booped the tip of his long nose on your temple, almost in place of a kiss.

Dinner finished quickly after that, and your boyfriend gently grabbed your wrist and guided you out of the eating area. He lead you onto the deck, and brought you up to Robin's flower garden. His hand shifted to cup yours, palms touching as he held your hand up. His palms felt clammy, and he shifted anxiously.

"You okay babe? What's going on?" His nervousness was affecting you.

"I had a whole speech, but for once... it doesn't feel right for the moment."

He took a deep, shaky breath and exhaled slowly as he stared at your joined hands. You waited patiently, curious but not wanting to press him. He looked into your eyes determinedly.

"You... I love you. So much. I love what you do for me. You take care of me all the time, and profess your love every day. You love me for who I am, all of me. I just- I want to show you. I don't feel like telling you like this is enough. I want you to be reminded of my love for you every damn day like you show me every day, so... I made something for you."

His free hand reached into his pocket bringing out a pair of matching rings. They were stunning, smooth, and shiny; simple, but intricate. You loved it.

"Usopp..." you whispered in reverence. Tears pricked your eyes at the sentiment.

"I want to promise you that I love you, through my bad days, through my cowardice, through anything. I made these rings so we can always know the other loves us. One day, I'll make you a better ring and propose to you with it, but will you accept this for now? As a promise for my love?"

You blinked, tears streaming down your face, framing your grin with wet trails.

"Of course, I'd be honored to accept your love" you repeated the line you said when he first asked you to date him. He grinned in response, tears shining along his long lashes.

He put the ring on, and you couldn't help but notice it fit perfectly. You stared at your joined hands, now decorated with matching rings that promised a future. You laughed wetly, and jumped into his arms. He laughed and spun you around once before he placed your feet back on the ground and kissed you. He nipped at your lips gently, smiling into the kiss. You couldn't help but return his grin, and you both had to pull back so your teeth wouldn't clack together.

"I love you, Usopp"

"I love you more" he answered.

I actually liked writing for Usopp more than I thought I would!

I'm so sorry this took me forever to get out! I've been swamped with my depression and my job with hellish hours but I loved writing this, and wouldn't mind doing more fluff for more characters :)

[bloodbagcutesy2112]

Mister Morningstar

Context: You go to your good friend Lucifer Morningstar to get an answer to your biggest question; was he really a fallen angel? Content: Angst, some slight fluff (Yes, I wrote this. No, I do not own the series. The Lucifer series is a Netflix original TV show.)

Lucifer Morningstar was a longtime good friend of yours. Of course, it had been years since you had seen him, but you remembered the day you met like it was yesterday. Falling from the sky onto the hood of someone's car is certainly a way to meet someone. However, what stuck with you was that there wasn't a cut or bruise on his body. Not a scratch, and he got off the then disheveled hood of your car, only responding with "Are you okay?".

His sultry voice combined with his proper British accent shocked you just as much as his perfectly uninjured body.

You only responded with a nod, which he, of course, thought was humorous. In the years to come, he couldn't help but voice his opinion on that every time someone brought it up. It was slightly annoying but for some strange reason, he always seemed to win the arguments about that subject.

Granted, it was always by seducing you, and you always seemed to fall to his charm, but he still won every time. This, in turn, made you think he was something other than human. Of course, at the time, that was only a joke. Emphasis on "at the time."

The fact that you saw his eyes turn fiery red when he was angry many a time, and the strange burn marks or scars on his back weren't helping to discourage your doubt. Once, he was about to get into a pool with you, and you saw his scars. You were curious and went to touch them, only for Lucifer to spin on you, grabbing your wrist as fast as inhumanely possible. It scared you, and his response did not help. He only said…

"Don't touch me.".

A low growl in his voice sent shivers down your spine. Your hand was visibly shaking when you moved it away, immediately apologizing.

Quickly shaking your head to clear it of these thoughts, you pulled up at the fancy nightclub he owned. It was called Lux, and it looked stunning in the moonlight of L.A. You could hear the partiers inside, and it made you nervous. However, you decided to get over your fear and walked inside.

As soon as you stepped inside, you had your eyes on the bar. They almost locked on to it as you maneuvered through the sea of party-goers. It was slightly hard, but eventually, you made it there, seeing the familiar face of Lucifer's stone-faced bodyguard, Mazikeen. "What can I get you?", she said. "Oh, I don't want anything. I need to see Lucifer.", you responded, looking around slightly nervously.

"He's busy.", Mazikeen said, not even maintaining eye contact. "Well, I'm sure he can't be that busy.", you responded, adjusting your outfit like a VIP guest in a movie. Maze looked up, making eye contact with you, in turn making you nervous. "He's busy.". At this point, it was obvious that she didn't recognize you. Doing a mental facepalm, you spoke up. "Maze, it's me! Y/N.", you said with a chuckle. "Wait… no damn way!", she laughed, playfully hitting your shoulder from behind the bar.

"Oh god, it's been how long?", she smiled. A familiar warm smile made you feel at home, even in this sea of partiers. "Two years, at least!". "Yeah… it's been a while.", you responded with a low sigh. "Now will you let me see Lucifer?", you chuckled. "Sure. If you pay me.", Maze winked. You laughed, hitting her shoulder and heading to the stairs. Heading into the elevator, you waited, letting your mind drift away again. The jazzy elevator music melted into your thoughts as the finest honey does into tea.

As you drifted off, your previous conversation with Mazikeen sunk in. Did she seriously not figure out it was you? You hadn't changed that much. Perhaps it was the skimpy dress you wore to fit in since you usually dressed more modestly. Perhaps it was the bold smile you wore? She always knew you weren't a very confident person. You weren't allowed much time to think about it, since you saw the elevator doors open and a very familiar figure stood on the balcony, facing the beautiful full moon. The figure was 6'3, had dark hair, wore a black suit, and had a cigarette in hand. A goofy smile spread across your face as you walked towards him

"I know you're here.", he said, stopping you in your tracks.

Your eyes widened and your breath hitched, but you quickly regained your composure, wondering why he frightened you. You smiled again, simply saying "Sorry. I tried to be quiet.". He turned around with a smile. "Y/N L/N, as I live and breathe!", he said, walking towards you. "Hello, darling.". "Hello, Lucifer.", you chuckled. Your eyes met, and you reveled in his deep obsidian eyes that you missed so much. "You've missed me, haven't you? I can see it in your eyes. You know, the ones you are burning a hole into mine with?", Lucifer said with his iconic smirk.

"I'm sorry, Luci. I've just been really busy, and-". "Don't apologize! I can survive without you for a year or two. I've gone without you for literal centuries.". You raised your eyebrow, still not fully believing his whole fallen angel persona. "Oh, right. Have you spoken to your brother in a while?", you said. "Oh, Amenadiel?", he asked. Lucifer opened his mouth to speak but quickly stopped and looked off to the side, seemingly confused about the question. "Do you know what? I don't think I have. Do you want me to call him?". "O-oh, no! I'm fine. I just… wanted to talk to you," you said nervously, trying your hardest to maintain eye contact. "Oh? Me only?", Lucifer chuckled.

"Lucifer.", you pouted. "Yes, Y/N?", he cooed, not helping your nervousness. "Are you… really a fallen angel? Like, s-seriously?", you stuttered. Lucifer chuckled, still with that iconic smirk of his, but when he saw your concerned or melancholic expression, it faded. "Oh, you're serious? I thought we confirmed this already.". "Lucifer!", you repeated, raising your voice slightly. Lucifer looked saddened by this, briefly glancing away from you. "I can prove it.", he said, a low growl in his voice that sent shivers down your spine. Now, of course, you were nervous about this. Who knows what he was going to do to "prove it"? In all honesty, although you had been friends for about two years, you knew nothing about him. The real him, below that fallen angel persona. If it even was a persona, of course.

"Now, let me-", Lucifer started to speak before he was interrupted. He looked around, saying "Oh, lovely.". "W-what? What's wrong?", you said, slightly scared. Lucifer rolled his eyes, dropping his cigarette, watching it slowly fall to the ground, eventually stopping about three inches from the balcony floor. You looked at it in terror before looking at Lucifer to see someone behind him. A tall, handsome man in a long black cloak. "Y/N, meet Amenadiel.", Lucifer sighed. You let out a sigh of relief, realizing you had never met him before this moment.

"Lucifer.", Amenadiel said in his low voice, walking closer to his brother. "Listen, brother, I am not in the mood right now, so tell Dad that I'm not coming back, and that's final.", Lucifer angrily sighed. "Why are you discussing this in front of her?", Amenadiel responded. "Why did you teleport in here in front of her?", Lucifer shot back. "Discussing- huh?! A-am I missing something, guys?!", you said, raising your voice even more. "Y/N, you should go.", Amenadiel said, moving even closer to Lucifer. "I'm not leaving until I get an explanation!", you said, standing your ground. Lucifer looked down with a sigh before continuing eye contact with you. "Please, leave. I need to talk with my brother in privacy. I'll… explain this later.". You gave him sad eyes before swallowing the lump in your throat, nodding, and walking away. As you walked away, your mind flooded with questions, theories, and so many different ideas and such. However, your devilish friend cut through the white noise, saying "I hope this is enough proof for you. Y/N!". You let a single tear fall from your eye as you stumbled into the elevator.

You were now in the elevator. As you stood alone, you let more tears fall. And more fell, and more, and more until you were full-on crying in the fancy elevator, cutting through the jazzy music of the room. Immediately, your mind flooded with more questions. All, if not most of them, remained unanswered. Where did Amenadiel come from? If this was a facade, why would they go so far as to change their name? And the most curious one; why were you crying in an elevator? You were able to chuckle at this before the doors opened and you were greeted by the sea of partiers from earlier. Deciding you wanted nothing more to do with this place for now, you made your way through the dance floor, before someone grabbed your arm.

"Hey, what's wrong?", Mazikeen said. "O-oh, it's nothing, Maze. It's just… I came in with a few questions and left with more.", you said, wiping some tears from your face. She nodded, responding "I get it. That happens a lot, especially with Luci. Want me to walk you to your car?". "Y-yeah, I'd appreciate that. Thanks, Maze.", you said, walking out of the building with her. You got in your car, only for Maze to knock on the window that you soon after rolled down. "Drive home safe, yeah?", she said with a slight smile. "Okay. See you later!", you said as you drove off. Although that display from earlier was significant proof, it seemed you had to get the answers to your other questions sometime later.

[the-plantlikefishie-dafi-writes]

Agreement with the Sun

An Arataki Itto x Reader Fanfic

Tags: Arataki Itto x Ruler!Reader, Fake Marriage, Made-up means of governance for Inazuma haha, SLOW BURN (At least I think it is <3), Reader is reserved but a little arrogant, Workaholic Reader, Himbo! Arataki Itto, Sunshine Arataki Itto, Eventual Fluff

Author's Note: Wow I actually gained the courage and posted this fic! Constructive criticism is much welcomed! Take note, I got too silly...

First Sunrise, First Moonfall - A Child of Ame-no-Uzume

🎶 O, Sunkissed Moon, beloved by the Sun, Its rays kiss your face, love questioned by none 🎶

He didn’t know what he expected. But, definitely not this.

If only he could get into a spar right now. Bust some bad guys with a jab, left-right, and a 'kapow!' that would be sure to wake him! But instead, the insanely boring stacks and stacks of papers made his eyes heavy even though he usually slept with his eyes open. Like, dude, what were these even for? It was a waste of good trees if you ask Itto.

If only he could catch some awesome beetles, he would have some fun with a bunch of kids by now and finally break his ridiculous losing streak which has been a major headache! However, two out of three cups of tea got cold from the incredibly long conversation by nerds who he would rather not upset unless he wanted to live in a nightmare.

Without having anything fun to do, he just spaced out. After all, Itto was surrounded by walls made of the finest purple silk and materials. Its design resembled the gentle waves of the sea and the eloquent color of electro. He eyed the gifts of foreign jade trinkets, placed proudly on quality wooden tables and the illuminating lanterns crested with Inazuma’s proud element. The scent of fine sakura perfume wafted through the air in the dim yet well lit room in Tenshukaku.

Man. He shouldn’t be spacing out like this! He is Arataki Itto for archon’s sake! The Arataki "Above All, Bold-Blooded" Itto! He can do whatever he wants… So why couldn’t he do all those he would rather do?

Well, it was because of you, The reigning ruler of Inazuma. He didn’t realize there was another ruler other than the Raiden Shogun. He didn’t really care who is in charge of Inazuma as long as he can live life as much as he wants, but maybe, you were also the reason why the humans became friendly to the onis and the rest of the yokai. He huffed, only a little as to not interrupt the conversation you and Shinobu had.

If only he wasn’t so awesomely charming and handsome that night!

You were just looking around that night. You were tiny, small compared to him, maybe, a little shy. With your cloaked figure, were you possibly a traveler?

"Hey, man! You look like you ain't around here!" he chirped as he tapped your shoulder and his hand returned to his hips. "Enjoying the festival so far?"

"Oh. I actually live in Inazuma. I just don't come out often." "An introvert! Hey, gotta respect that. You know, a lot of cool people I know are introverts like the renowned golden-haired traveler! Savior of Dragons, Conqueror of the Abyss, Teyvat's hero! Too bad, they ain't here though. Miss 'em." You nodded at his words as you dropped your hood down. And here it is, Itto always knew he was talented since birth at making friends! You finally lowered your guard, and you even gave him a smile.

…Hm? Pretty?

"Haha. I did meet them. I'm glad they reunited." Oh, so you knew the Traveler’s goals too? You’d have to get pretty close to them to do that. Just who are you, small mysterious person? "I haven't enjoyed the festival yet. I don't really know what to do," you added with fingertips pressed together and an awkward smile.

A smile curled up and a loud boisterous voice emerged from Itto, "Hahaha! Well, you are in luck, my compadre! I, Arataki the "Festival King of Fun and Revelry" Itto is here to serve you! When there's fun to be had, I am most undoubtedly there!" Oh, he could feel that adrenaline pumping into his veins! He has to get the gang into this! He looked over at his growing gang and shouted, "Hey, guys! Let's show 'em how to rock a real Festival!"

That was how the great Arataki Itto managed to get the seemingly-uptight you to a night of holler and laughs. What surprised him the whole night was not during the height of the clinking drinks and shared enthusiasm, but during the distant singing of an old man and the diminishing hype of the night. Shinobu had just pointed out your status as ruler, as the esteemed sun of Inazuma.

No way. No way.

You know how to party, he'll give you that. But, he can't believe he has been picking up, carrying you, oni-handling the second-in-command from the Raiden Shogun like a bunch of boxes… For the whole night no less!

He was also crazy loud, and he hoped he didn't say a joke that was offensive that could ruin his 150-day streak without getting into jail.

He began to shove the feeling of cold sweat in the backroom of his mind, and Itto smirked as his pointer and thumb framed the chin of his gorgeous face, "Heh, looks like Arataki the "Festival king of Fun and Revelry" served a hotshot tonight! Was my service just as awesome as you expected, esteemed sun?"

You let out a laugh. "Mister Arataki, you are adorable."

Shinobu and Itto flinched and widened their eyes. A hoot of laughter was so unusual to see from someone who is deemed stoic by the public. And, a compliment? Surely, Itto has greatly achieved many things tonight compared to everyone else in Inazuma. Of course, it is expected of the oni king! And, "Mister Arataki"? Prissy and pretty name to add to the long list of titles and all, but where did the sudden politeness come from? He just remembered that you were calling him "Itto" as the whole gang hollered while you were trying to scoop some goldfish.

"Of course, I had fun," you grinned.

Phew. Good thing you aren't nitpicky. He bowed exaggeratedly as he chuckled, "I am glad to be of service."

Itto knew you could see how his head was getting bigger than his body now. You smiled a little wider, "I enjoyed it so much that…"

Huh. There's more? Well, he was ready for you to compliment his entertaining charm.

"I wish to be your betrothed. Arataki Itto, will you marry me?" Itto witnessed you shine and sparkle to coax him to agree— you placed your hand on your chest as you knelt down on one knee, staring into his eyes with eager glee.

….HUH?

You met eyes with your day-dreaming future husband, and gave him a welcoming smile in the midst of an important discussion, cold tea, and stacked papers. It was a little forced, but the way he smiled back was so genuine and infectious, your true eloquent smile appeared. His infectious aura and presence was what made you enjoy that night and what made you choose him.

Good. He is the perfect candidate as a husband for you: an intimidating resting face everyone will cower in fear from, then the friendliest smile that knows no inequality, inclusive and outgoing personality, the leader of a gang that has been giving itself a good name in recent years, and no true influence to the government of Inazuma.

You were glad to have met him that night.

It was your time to rest in the stuffy yet plain room. Tired eyes fluttered to the beautiful sights of the Festival. Dancing sakura petals of the wind waltz with the lights of the city. The hustle and bustle sang and harmonized with the music of Inazuma. Culture of games, masks and silk infested the streets to satisfy the people and Yokai. Commissioner Kamisato was right; the Shirasagi Himegimi outdid herself this time. The night was too alluring to stay in your room as warmth started to bubble in your heart. Maybe, you won’t spend your night in your stuffy room today.

Indeed, those elders would criticize and lecture you, but at the very best, those grimy sons or selfish daughters of theirs will have no room in your work and your thoughts. At the very least, in your marriage with Itto, he wouldn’t do much for Inazuma other than some minor inconveniences. He would do his own things, and you would do yours. He wouldn’t have any problems with money, shelter, and clothing, and you wouldn’t have any problems with annoying suitors. Now, you have a reason to turn them down.

You also gave your husband his freedom to love whoever he wants.

In the lengthy contract that cited rules and regulations and written agreements between the Arataki Gang Leader and the Esteemed Sun of Inazuma, there, you have written: “The Esteemed Sun of Inazuma, □⁠□⁠□□, agrees for the Arataki Gang Leader, Arataki Itto, to have a romantic or sexual relationship outside of the contractual marriage between the two parties.”

“Hm, are you sure you want this part to be in the contract? Won’t it cause some kind of scandal? It might not jeopardize you, esteemed sun. But the Arataki gang will face grave repercussions." Kuki Shinobu voiced out.

How lucky was Arataki Itto to have a jack of all trades like her? You got a little envious, but the feeling hid behind the curtain. "Dear Kuki, is someone with the likes of Itto even interested in romance?" you whispered.

She actually pondered on your joke, but you pressed on with a grin. "Either way, please notify me if he plans to have a lover. I will make a scandal wherein I have another lover as well as make the narrative sympathize with Itto. Now, they won't be so rude if they think with their little heads. To kill the attention on me, I will announce something beneficial to Inazuma’s-"

"Wait," Itto tapped in, long fingers playing a rhythm to the dark wood. "You're going to sacrifice your reputation? For me to have my own lover?" He raised his brow.

"Of course? My "love life" won't affect my service.”

“Aren’t you technically my lover according to this contract?”

“Well, do you love me?”

“Uh…”

“Think of this as a marriage for convenience, Itto,” you gently smiled, mostly because he was cute, but slightly you placed him at a corner. “We don’t have to love each other.”

"Heh! Well, think again, sunshine!" He crossed his arms and widely opened his mouth. "I'm not gonna be some kind of cheating jerk and fail this marriage! I ain't gonna fall in love with anyone or ain't gonna make out with anyone else but my future spouse! I am gonna be an awesome and committed husband as granny oni taught!"

Honestly, you stifle a laugh. "Is that so? It isn’t really cheating since we don’t have feelings for each other, and this relationship is obviously one of empty commitment. You will get bore-"

Before you could add anything, you could feel Itto's hand grab yours as he brought it to his lips. "Then, I'll use my good ol' Arataki "The Handsome Oni" Itto charm to make you fall for me" he winked.

You pondered. Does he read those cheesy light novels?

DON’T PLAGIARIZE, REPOST, OR TRANSLATE ANY OF MY WORKS.

Thank you and God bless!

[shoku-and-awe]

Got a red bean tea chuhai and my otoshi was a little veggie dish! The slimy stuff is called mekabu, which until recently I thought was a type of sea vegetable. And it is, I wasn't exactly wrong, but it turns out that it's actually just the flowering part of plain old wakame seaweed! The texture is so different that I never realized.

There's a lot of slimes in the Japanese diet. Some of them are nice, like this one! The flavor goes well with the sweetness of the vinegared carrots and cukes. And slime is supposed to have good properties not only for anti-aging but also chronic pain! At least according to the local conbini mama, who is always in my business. And I do trust her implicitly, for whatever reason 😂

[pinksugarscrub]

The Pirate Princess

Pirate! Hobie x princess! reader

Inspired by @the-kr8tor 's Between the Devil and the Sea and the anon who came up with princess! reader

Part(s): Prolouge, ???

Word count: 1,616

~

You fidget with the handle of the blue teacup in your hand. Gold embellished in the rim. It’s cold, unnaturally so, but it’s finally stopped raining. The sky is clear except for a few puffs that look like balls of cotton the royal gardener grows. It’s peaceful inside the walls you call home.

“If you hold the thing any tighter Princess, I’m afraid it will break.”

Instinctively you loosen your grip at the sound of his voice. So familiar you might as well hear in your head at all moments in the day. Your palm stings from how long you held it to the porcelain but you hide it well to avoid being scolded.

You smile as you bring the steaming cup of tea to your lips. Your second, or third since this morning. “Harry, you’re late.”

He chuckles, brown curls shielding the roll of his eyes but you know him well enough to know he’s done it. When he sits you kick at his leg with your heel. Not hard but enough to annoy him but you can hardly do anything to get on his bad side. Everyone finds the need to tell you that aside from Miguel, Harry has a severe soft spot for you.

He yelps, nearly falling off of the garden chair across from you. Dramatic of course, what kind of General would he be if a measly kick brought him to his knees. “That damn hurt Princess I was only a few days off!”

You laugh as you lean back in your chair. Harry already moving to place your legs over his lap. It’s become routine everytime you see each other. Which is rare nowadays.

“Well, you never leave a lady waiting.” Placing your tea back on the table to pour one for your friend (the maids would disagree). The action is a bit difficult given your position and the exceptionally puffy dress you’re wearing but you make do. “Especially your future queen.”

Harry doesn’t protest. Watching you with a look that he wouldn’t be caught dead giving anyone else. His fingers softly caressing the skin of your ankle.

“Yes, well…” Taking the cup graciously once you extend it to him. “If her majesty was more inclined to act properly she would be more understanding.”

He recognizes the flavor as soon as it hits his tongue. Rose, your favorite. You’re worried. He doesn’t push. Opting for you to voice your concerns if you deem it necessary. “Pete was showing me some more of his contraptions.”

You gasp, nearly dropping the sugar in your spoon. “Peter is here?”

You’re ready to slide out of your chair and run into his study. He left weeks ago with his apprentice. Something about metal? Vibranium? You can’t remember.

Harry catches your legs before they can hit the ground. Laughing as he holds you still. “Yes yes but let me have a moment with you before we have to listen to his regular tangents.” You whine which is unbecoming of a princess but that only makes Harry's smile grow wider. “Oh come on, I know you prefer Peter over me-”

You look absolutely appalled as you try to swat at him. Harry catches your hands with ease and kisses your knuckles to turn your expression into a happier one. Your laughter fills the garden and for a moment, just a moment, you forget about the war. Forget about tonight and…forget about how you’re going to break Harry’s heart.

At least you got to see him before you left.

An hour earlier

Your head is pounding and everything is so loud. Words leaving lips, left and right. Squeaky and demanding.

Curling your fingers into the tulle of your skirt you stare blankly at the map at the center of the table. Black splotches of ink on familiar shorelines and townfronts you’ve only seen in paintings. Crossed out with a single flick of a wrist.

You gasp softly as a hand lands on your shoulder. Firm yet kind, you recognize it instantly. “Miguel,” you exhale. The bouncing of your knee ceasing.

The man doesn’t answer. Just purses his lips. Your stomach drops as he clears his throat, loudly and unabashedly. All eyes shifting and conversation coming to a halt. “This meeting is adjourned. It’s a quarter passed twelve. Return to your homes.”

The men go to protest but a hand raises. An emerald ring on the pointer finger. His voice is gruff, mostly from the smoking he used to indulge in with your father. The memory causes some tension to leave your shoulders. “Gentlemen, we have taken most of the day already. I do not see what is wrong with ending early. We may come to an even better resolution by morning with the proper rest.”

These men are ancient well, aside from Miguel and Lord Osborn. They take ages, centuries even, to shuffle out of the small room. Grumbling like children it’s almost comical.

You sigh. In relief or exhaustion, you don’t know. Your body aches from sitting so long on your father’s old desk chair. You don’t have to look back to know you’ve left an impression on the seat. But then again, with how thick your petticoat is you might be nonexistent to the velvet.

Miguel extends his hand out to you and you take it. Offering him a quick nod before walking over to the entrance of the study. The senior Osborn’s eyes piercing your own as he waits for you. His irises as bright as the ring on his finger.

“Lord Osborn,”you chuckle,“thank you. I must owe you a million debts of gratitude by now.”

He laughs and you smile wider. “Please (y/n), I’ve known you since infancy. Norman is fine. Unless you want to move ahead and call me father.”

You laugh nervously. Cheeks heating up as you fumble with your gloves. Struggling to make a coherent response you miss the look your Captain gives the noble.

“Don’t worry dear, just teasing.” The wrinkles in his face growing more defined as he smiled. “Speaking of which, Harry arrived earlier this morning. His platoon was thankfully successful in removing those ghastly pirates threatening a nearby port town.”

“Oh,” you stutter. Feeling the heat in your cheeks subside. “Oh how wonderful! Please be sure to send him my way.”

“Of course. Enjoy the rest of the afternoon. We’ll reconvene tomorrow yes?”

A knot fills your stomach as you nod. A strained smile on your lips. You want to say ‘Unfortunately Norman, I won’t be here tomorrow because I’m stowing away on a ship!’ Well, not stowing away. You had paid a fee to take you to the front lines. “Yes, tommorow. Thank you again.”

Eventually the man fades in the long corrodior of portraits and paintings. The tension in your body leaving along with him. You tilt your head and without a hitch your tiara falls into your awaiting hands. The jewels glaring back at you. You can finally breathe.

Miguel calls your name out with a sigh. His grip firm on your shoulder again and that brings you back to the present. “You don’t have to do this.” His eyes staring deeply into your own. Despite his words Miguel knows there’s no turning back for you. You’ve made your choice.

You pull your shoulders back, determined as you set the tiara back on your head. The gold weighting almost as heavily as your heart. “It's been six years since father passed and my coronation is only months away. How can I see myself as a queen when I can’t even help my own people now?”

“I can do this.” You repeat the phrase to yourself in your mind before continuing. “I’ll leave and come back in less than a month.” Your heels clicking with your movement as you look outside of the castle walls. The banners of your family crest fluttering in the wind. “Just having you believe in me to allow me to do this is more than I could have asked for.”

Miguel chuckles, uncharacteristic to anyone except to you. “I sincerely doubt you would have taken no for an answer.”

“How encouraging,”you huff. Smiling as you playfully hit his side. “I couldn’t have asked for a better mentor.”

He smiles before going back to his usual stoic demeanor. It’s almost cold the way he stares down at you but you know him enough to see he’s hiding his pain. That’s what made him reach his rank as your right hand. “Your kingdom has no other option beside annihilation if you leave them in the hands of these arrogant fools for too long. Find Gwendolyn, and quickly.”

You feel a cool piece of metal in your palm and it takes you a second to realize Miguel is the one who’s placed it there. The situation feeling more real as you twirl the ring inbetween your fingers. Your father’s ring. Newly polished. The engraving in the metal so much more defined you can’t help but trace your fingers over the letters.

It’s a parting gift, you realize and as optimistic as you’ve been about your journey. You know there’s a chance you won’t come back. Miguel must see that too.

“The boat leaves at sunrise. You have everything you need to succeed. It’s up to you to live up to the potential I know you have.” He surprises you by kneeling. The suit of his armor clinking together as the sun shines through the stained glass windows. The color makes him look almost ethereal. You feel less like a royal and more like an equal in that moment.

"I have served no one nobler. Good luck, princess.”