#what was chances that author is going to be one of them

[creamecafe]

hii could u write something for Dae-ho set in the mingle game and its basically just him protecting reader and always keeping them at his side. 🫶🫶🫶

"As long as I'm here, no one can hurt you"

Summary: What the request says

Pairing: Dae-Ho x GN!Reader (No pronouns used)

Warnings: fluff, comfort, pining

Word Count:

Author's Note: Thank you so much for requesting. I hope you enjoy!

Want a request for a Squid Game character like this one? Check out my latest post, read my request guidelines and send a request!

Read on Wattpad & AO3 here

It's a miracle that you have made it to the third game. You were sure you were going to die in the second game, but thanks to the team you had, you were more than determined to still stay alive

Out of all them, there was one that you kept looking at. Dae-Ho. You couldn't help but find him cute. This certainly wasn't the place to have feelings as you could die before telling him.

It was the same for Dae-Ho, trying to make sure everyone is ok and that the team survives. But it was something with you.

He felt safe with you, and wanted to protect you. Even if it meant giving his life for you.

The announcement for the third game came, you were worried, but wanted it to be over it. Dae-Ho noticed you being anxious and asked if you okay

"Are you okay?"

You stopped zoning out and looked at him with your heart pounding.

"What? Y-yes I'm ok thank you." Nodding trying to reassure yourself.

"I think this might be the last game I play in." You chuckled knowing deep inside you dreaded the idea

"Hey look at me."

You did as he said. "Don't say that, you have us."

He held out your hand to hold it. You looked at it and hesitated putting your hand out but you held it. A tight squeeze was given but not too rough. It was a sign of reassuring.

He gives you a smile and you did too not of full happiness but someone is here to care about you.

All of you guys were called for the game. You got up and stayed close to Dae-Ho. He looked back at you and nodded. You did the same.

It was the same, climbing up those colorful but dreading stairs to the next game. Every minute or two, Dae-Ho made sure you were right behind him.

You finally reached the game and saw a carousel in the middle with horses and so many doors of different bright colors for a Pre-K setting.

"Welcome to your third game." The woman's voice from the previous games you heard came on the speakers.

"The game you will be playing is Mingle. Let me repeat. The game you will be playing is Mingle."

Turning your head to look at Dae-Ho, he's already looking at you.

You quickly look away not to make the situation worse. He didn't want to make you uncomfortable as well.

"All players, please step onto the center platform. When the game starts, the platform will begin to rotate, you will hear a number. You must form groups of that size, go into the rooms, and close the door within 30 seconds."

"Oh this game? We used to play something similar on school trips. We formed groups by hugging." Jung-bae exclaimed.

"Yeah. Instead of hugging, we go into those rooms" Dae-Ho mentioned.

"If the number is bigger than six, we'll get the additional people we need." Gi-Hun

And if it's less than that? You thought in your mind

"But what if it's smaller than five? Like three or four

You turned your head to Dae-Ho. It's like he read your mind exactly.

"No matter what happens, don't panic. Let's stay calm," Young-il nods. "We'll make it out together. Here."

Those words echoing in your mind, there wasn't enough time to doubt if your group would stick with you.

You've seen how quickly people are to turn against each other especially in the Red Light, Green Light.

But you're more than determined to stay alive, just to see Dae-Ho's face every chance you get.

Young-il puts the back side of hand out to form a truce. One by one, everyone is putting their hands on top of each other. You were the last one.

"Y/N. Are you in?" Gi-Hun asks.

Dae-Ho looks at you with worry in his eyes. You had no choice and no knowledge of trusting others in this game, so you put your hand out on top.

Dae-Ho becomes relieved at this.

"One, two, three. Victory at all costs."

Sighing at this with relief, you guys begin to spread out. The carousel is starting to spin

People scream out in fear. Lights go out and the light in the middle where horses out lights ups and music plays.

Children are singing about holding hands and ringing around.

Dae-Ho holds your hand lightly. He grazes your hand with his thumb. You don't look at him, as you fear you'll die doing so.

It suddenly stops. The number is 9. People are running out frantically pairing in groups of 9. Dae-Ho doesn't let go of your hand.

"We need 3 more." You said. Your group ran looking for 3 more.

A old lady, her son and another woman goes up to you guys.

"Are you guys 3?" Young-il asks

"Yes we're." The old lady nods frantically.

"Quickly we got to get into a room" Gi Hun exclaims

Your feet were starting to move, but the grip of Dae-Ho holding your hand made you move even faster.

All of you guys rushed into a room and closed the door. The room was filled with heavy breaths. There was a click on the lock meaning that the room was closed and nobody can get in or out.

Right now, you have never been more grateful to be alive in playing a game

It wasn't long before you heard gunshots, and it was safe to assume it was those who didn't pair up or get into rooms in time.

Now that you're safe, you look at Dae-Ho and he does too.

"Is everyone ok?" Dae-Ho asks

There was a lot of yes. That answer might change throughout the game seeing how long each of us might last.

The door lock clicked and you guys were allowed to come out. There were bodies on the floors and blood splattered. "Take off your mind off those bodies or you'll be one of them" Your mind was telling yourself.

"We got this" Dae-Ho talks to you

"We do" You smiled. Don't know how many smiles it will take to keep going, but you're ready to prove his point.

The game started again and the carousel spins. You hold out to Dae-Ho's hand.

Now the number was 4. Young-il grabs Jung-Bae and goes to find two more people. That's left Gi-Hun, Jun-Hee, Dae-Ho and you left.

There was no time to waste. All four you ran to a room and locked yourself in. Gi-Hun was looking around for Young-il. You pulled him back in.

The gunshots came again. The lesser the number, the more likely people will betray each other.

How long this game will last, you don't know. All you know is that you have people here to help you. Even if it's just one person, it makes all the difference.

The doors clicked and it was time for another round. The panic and adrenaline of it all keeps coming back. But Dae-Ho is making sure you're by his side, even if he may die in the game as well.

Six the group was. Dae-Ho said you and him were going to go and find another group. Luckily you did and you managed to still be alive locked in a room.

Now it all came down to the very last game. There were less people than the game started. You wanted to finish this for once and for all. While the carousel was spinning and music playing, you place yourself in movement ready to run and holding Dae-Ho's hand.

"2" The voice said.

It felt like time was going slow once it announced the number. Everybody is rushing to get into a room. Time's running out.

You felt a hand pull you back and you fell to the ground. Dae-Ho heard your scream and saw someone trying to stop you from going into a room. Someone else was already in the room that you guys were planning to go into.

Dae-Ho could go into the room and that would already make it two. But he's made it too far to leave you.

He ran and punched the guy that pushed you. He put you back on your feet and dragged the other guy out. He slammed the door shut and the timer just came to zero. The guy on the other side begs and bangs on the door.

A pink guard shoots him and the noises stop.

"Are you ok?" Dae-Ho rushes to you.

Still shaken at what happened, at the fact you almost died if it wasn't for him to save you, you nodded.

"Yes I am. Thank you."

There was a moment of silence between you too as you were catching your breaths.

The door clicked and you both came out.

"Y/N! Dae-Ho!" Both of your names were being called

Gi-Hun, Young-il, Jung-Bae and Jun-Hee run up to you guys and you all hug each other.

"I'm so glad you guys are ok." Jun-Hee smiles

You're also relieved that everyone else is fine and made it out alive. You could return back to the dorms.

Walking down back the stairs and into the dorms, everyone was mostly silent but some talked.

You ran up and tapped Dae-Ho on the shoulder.

"Hey Dae-Ho?"

"Yes Y/N?"

"You could have gone into the room where the other guy before you dragged him out, why didn't you?"

Dae-Ho took a pause before responding.

"I have lost many people when I was a marine, seen people get killed in front of me. I can't let it happen to you."

He starts to become close to you but not too close.

"As long as I'm still alive, I'll make sure you're fine. That's a promise I tend to keep Y/N."

Those words stuck with you. You could die in the next game, but right here at this moment is a reason to keep going.

Navigation | Main Masterlist | Squid Game Masterlist | Kang Dae-Ho Masterlist | Join my taglist!

[everestgale]

Whatever you're trying to do right now, you don't have to do it alone.

------

Happy New Year's Eve, Slay the Princess community!

A long, long message and credits to the designs are under the cut.

[Please excuse any awkward sentences, weird repetitions, and grammatical mistakes, I've been awake for 20 hours or so]

I cannot describe how much joy I feel right now, finally getting this drawing done. I feel nothing but joy when I think about Slay the Princess, and I feel nothing but pure adoration when I think about and spend time in this community. This game and this community truly brought a lot of happiness to me and made this otherwise unremarkable, maybe even depressing, year that much brighter. I wish I had more and better words to describe what I'm feeling right now! Genuinely, I don't have words to describe how much gratitude I feel right now.

And so for my final piece of 2024, I wanted to make a thank you drawing to this community and hopefully express the fraction of love and gratitude I feel right now. And I decided to make that drawing a group photo of 30 different Heroes! It ended up being 29 Heroes and one Opportunist, but I promise there is a reason for that-

If I had more time and energy, I would've included even more people, there are so many skilled artists, writers, and wonderful people in general who ended up excluded, especially due to this drawing being a voice-centered piece. But I'm glad I at least get to highlight some of the wonderful creators and artists in this community! Please check them out and support their work! They are all amazing <3

If you wanted to know who is the author behind each design, I made an annotated version! Sorry if the text is too small, I tried my best to write it as large as I could T-T

------

Now onto the message to the people in the drawing:

First! I sincerely apologize if I missed some details with your Hero design, or if I used an outdated version of it. I wanted to keep this a surprise, and for some of these, I had to dive into the depths of Tumblr to find (hopefully) relevant references. And yes, if you've received a DM from me about your Hero in the past few weeks or so, this project was the reason why! And if you've received an anonymous ask about your Hero, there is a quite good chance it was from me, too <3

And second! I have a message for each and every one of you:

@acethekenku: Your designs are so well-made and awesome! Especially adore your Broken and Contrarian, there's something about them that just immediately catches my eye! Your Contrarian's fashion and DIY skills are also immaculate :]

@artificial-radiance: Your art is absolutely wonderful, whether it's Slay the Princess, Destiny 2, or sonas! I wish I had a better word to describe your art, but the best I got is "delicious" /lh

@beartitled: I adore your StP comics! I adore your drawings of male!Princesses! I adore your non-StP work! Everything you make is so charming, and it's always a joy to see your work <3

@bubblybloob: One of my favorite fanart memes, to this day, is your old "I do not control the speed at which princesses die" meme. I still go re-read it sometimes when I'm not feeling great, it always puts a smile on my face (yes, this is my kind of humor). Though, your new voice designs are SO creative and unique! Love the fluffy Para and the prophetic cage Skeptic especially, but they are all so good <3

@coldranger: Your lads! So simple and yet so well-designed and expressive! That roadrunner Hunted you shared yesterday is so adorable, I can't with him! It is always wonderful to see more of your drawings. Also thanks for gushing with me over mod Owl's designs <3

@cookiealchemieart: I recently mentioned that you are one of my first Tumblr follows, and it's for a good reason! You made a lot of wonderful illustrations, and your three fan princesses are some of my favorites of all the ones I've seen before! And your voice designs, gosh, I am hugging your Contrarian-

@dampfur: Your art is unbelievably charming! And when I saw your Burned Bridges post with redesigns for Cold and Smittten, I absolutely fell in love with them. I will use this space to gush about just how simple and yet adorable and recognizable they are!

@glitchh1337: Always love seeing what you are up to on Discord! Whether it's design concepts for voices or little pixel art animations, they are all wonderful :]

@justcherryqwq: Your animations!!! Cherry, your animations are pure gold. The way you draw voices as little guys flying around the scene/the Long Quiet is just too perfect. I am also grabbing and petting your Paranoid, gently, of course!

@occatorcreator: You have one of the most unique voice designs/representations I've ever seen! Especially in that one post where you drew voices taking over Long Quiet's body, the way you drew the "possession" is just... so unique, so cool! I wish I had better words!

@orcatnip: I cannot describe how much delight your sketches bring me whenever they show up on my dash! And the way you wrote about voices appearing as fractures in Long Quiet's soul! Oh! Genuinely obsessed!!!

@pareidolla: Your voice designs are very pretty and very adorable! As you can see, I immediately had to try drawing your current iteration of Hero because he is SO PRETTY! I couldn't help myself. Sorry if I was too hasty in my decision to include an in-progress design, but I wanted you to be included here-

@remaking-machine: Rema!!! Your voices!!! They are so precious and charming! Love your Cheated, love your Hero, love your Skeptic! You were one of the first people I found & followed on Tumblr, and it's been such a joy to see what you're up to <3 [Also, I still would like a tray of Hero cookies-]

@salty-an-disco: Your writing, at least from what I've seen of it, is awesome! I genuinely wish I had the attention span to read your Heathens AU because whenever I see you talk about it, or draw anything for it, I love it a lot! Hopefully one day I will, but for now, I am here to admire your art :]

@sorry-not-feeling-it-right-now: Hey, who let this bird-fox into this gathering of Heroes-

Jokes aside, I am absolutely obsessed with your voice designs, and I really, really wanted to include you in this drawing, despite the fact that you are still working on your Hero design. Thank you for letting me include your Opportunist in this drawing, I cannot WAIT to see your Hero design <3

@tai-janai: Your drawings are so delightful, and I love the way you draw your voices! Your voice shipping sketches are also so adorable, and your HeA-inspired ParaHero sketch sometimes decides to show up in my head and not pay any rent (I love it a lot)!

@voiceofthebroken: Remember how I mentioned that your Cheated post inspired one of my upcoming projects? Yes, it was this one. You are responsible for this /lh

Don't want to repeat myself too much from the ask I sent yesterday, but I will once again say that I love your voice designs, and I will once again compliment your Cheated and Hunted. They are precious! <3

@wysteriaisapenguin: Your art is so charming and so recognizable! Your most recent HeA drawing is absolutely stealing my heart in a way that I cannot describe!!! I also really like your Hero design, he was an absolute joy to draw <3

------

Oh look, there's more, too!

@sonjalikestodraw: Sonja! Oh Sonja, everything you make is just SO PERFECT, your pieces are always so stellar and carefully crafted, and your voice designs are so thoughtful and so iconic, I love it every time you make a post with a little write-up of your design notes! It's always such a joy to read!!

0th: To say that your designs and your writing inspired my own would be saying nothing at all, they were some of the first I've seen! They will always have a special place in my heart as "the designs" that greatly contributed to my own final designs! And your Swap AU still is one of my favorites in the whole fandom, love all the unique designs you made for it!! Noble my beloved <3

@itsonlypolite: The way your voices ingrained themselves in my brain, I cannot describe it! Your designs are truly some of the most unique, most recognizable designs in the fandom. You deserve every single positive comment and compliment on your art and designs!!! I also love how you reply to people's asks with little drawings of your own. It's so charming and welcoming <3 It's also always pure joy talking to you!

@cammie-yammie: I am very glad that I got over my anxiety and started talking more and hanging out in your thread! I love your art, always so charming, so distinctly you, just such joy to look at, and I'm glad I got to engage with it more, and with you as a person!!! Damn, these sentences are confusing lol Long story short, love your art, love talking to you, and it's just pure joy either way <3

@lavb-b: I am not kidding when I say that your Businessman animation rewired something in my brain, whenever I watch it, I cannot stop myself from laughing, even though at this point I've seen it like 20+ times already. Besides that, your art in general is just such high-quality work, and I love talking to you on the Discord server! Welcoming you with open arms to EG's Yap Central Station /lh

@phantasmatoucan (mod Owl): OWL HOW DO YOU KEEP GETTING AWAY WITH THIS- You have no idea how obsessed I am with your art, you have SUCH a distinct, awesome style, and the way you designed your voices brings me so, so much joy. And not only are you a skilled artist with amazing voice designs, but you are also just such a positive person, too!!! How is this possible!!! What's your secret!!!

@hello-universe-lovers: Your reblog comments always make me happy, and I absolutely love chatting with you!!! The little interaction you wrote between our Cheateds brought me so much joy as I was finishing this project <3 And even besides that, your art is so charming, and also apparently you are a wizard who draws everything with your finger- I cannot understand such witchcraft /lh

@neverpathia: You are the reason I QPR-ship ParaHero! You got these birds in my brain, and I can't get them out, how dare you (/lh). Jokes aside, I really like your writing, especially the way you write voices, and your art is also very pretty, I love it a lot! It's also such a joy to have you hang out in my art thread, thanks for doing that :]

@disarraydoodlez: Jam! And Kiri! Your art is so iconic, Kiri's desire for perfection never goes unnoticed, and Jam's chaotic silly ideas are always such a highlight (I'm still waiting for you to finish that one Den idea. The one we kept laughing about for like 30 minutes. That one). Thanks for inviting me to the PotC one-shot, I had a lot of fun playing it, and I'm glad we still hang out and chat sometime! Love everything you make, regardless of the fandom, and I can't wait to see what you both will make next <3

@s3viien (they mostly exist on BSky, check them out there!): Sev! My partner in crime! One of my biggest cheerleaders, you have no idea how much how dearly I appreciate it. I love sharing all my random ideas with you, and I love hearing about all of yours! Your art, your videos, and your music are all PEAK, and I'm always happy to see what you've been up to! To our friendship for as long as it lasts <3

@inkedout: And last but certainly and absolutely not least, Ink, my friend, you are one of the big reasons why I feel as comfortable writing all of this right now as I am right now. I cannot put into words just how much I appreciate you as a friend!! it is always such a joy to talk to you, whether it's about StP, or ATR, or a different fandom, or just life in general! I love seeing all your art, your OCs, and anything else you might have <3

Also voice shipping. There are certain ships, you probably know which ones, that are now stuck in my head because of you. I blame you /lh

-----

I believe that should be all I have to say! Happy New Year's Eve again, and I will see you all in 2025!

[pitchsidestories]

Everything I know about female friendship II Arsenal Women x Reader

romantic masterlist | platonic masterlist | word count: 2136

summary: Everyone in your flat share has moved on, except you. There used to be five of you, Alessia, Victoria, Laura, Laia and you, and now you think you're celebrating New Year's Eve alone in a flat that, if the pictures on the wall were anything to go by, was once full of friendship.

author's note: Dear readers, we hope you'll have a fantastic New Year’s Eve and a great start into 2025; however you choose to celebrate it.🫶🏻🫶🏻

This New Years’ Eve felt significantly different from all the others before. This year you weren’t out partying, dancing until the early morning hours and you also didn’t spend the night with your housemates and a bottle of champagne in your shared living room.

For the first time since you moved to London you were alone. Everyone that had shared the house with you at some point, had already moved out again. There was no Laura, no Victoria, no Laia and no Alessia anymore. Just you.

You really thought you had made peace with the idea that you would end the old year and start the new year alone. But sitting there, waiting for the hours to pass, the emptiness started to feel weirdly heavy. To counteract the silence, you put your favourite record on and opened a bottle of wine that you had saved for this night.

While you were pouring yourself a glass, a sudden ringing on your doorbell made you jump and almost spill some of your wine.

“I’m coming!”, you called out. Leaving your glass on the table, you slowly walked towards the door. As soon as you opened it, Victoria beamed at you: “Surprise!”

You didn’t know what to say. Victoria and Laura stood in front of you, their arms linked. Laia and Alessia appeared right behind them with multiple bags in hand.

“Wow, I thought…”, you stammered but Alessia didn’t let you finish.

“That we’re all celebrating somewhere without you?”

You nodded hesitantly: “Actually, yes.”

“Wrong!”, Laura clarified quickly and pushed past you into her old home without waiting for you to beckon them in.

You let the other girls pass without protest as well. Laia was the last one. She looked up towards the clouded sky one last time before going inside: “I wish the weather was better though.”

You almost snorted. Whenever she had the chance, Laia would bring up how bad the weather in England was compared to Spain.

Victoria rolled her eyes: “You will survive, Laia.”

”Would a hug help?”, you asked to which the Spaniard nodded immediately.

“Yes.”

“Knew it.”, you laughed before pulling her towards you. With your chin resting on Laias shoulder, you forgot for a moment that she didn’t live here anymore.

You stayed there until you heard Alessia yell from the kitchen: “Oh my god, we need to upgrade your dinner for tonight!”

Laia and you followed the others into the next room. You shrugged nonchalantly: “What’s the problem with wine and crackers?”

“With wine, you need Italian food.”, Alessia stated.

“And a spanish dessert.”, Laia added before turning to the other two Arsenal players that were too busy with their lips on each other to care about any kind of food. “And no, Vicky and Laura, you cannot each other up. Respect the single ladies here!”

“And we want to contribute some Dutch and Austrian food.”, the defender explained with a cheeky smile on her lips.

You couldn't help but get a little sentimental as you watched your friends teasing each other, reminding you of the time when you all called these four walls your home. The melancholy hit you out of nowhere and your heart was torn into a million pieces, but the presence of your friends managed to put the many shattered pieces back together again.

“Man, how I missed you girls.”, you sighed whole-heartedly.

There was an amused sparkle in Alessia’s eyes when she replied to your comment: “We still see each other in training. We’re not completely gone.”

“Yes, just because we moved out doesn’t mean we’re not your friends anymore you idiot.”, Victoria reminded you with her direct Dutch manner.

Instead of looking into anyone’s eyes you focused on the flickering candlelight in front of you, while you admitted: “I know that. It just sometimes feels a bit lonely. I miss the random talks in the living room and stuff like that.”

 “No wonder you’re a bit down the music is depressing.”, Laia observed, making her way to your beloved record player.

Maybe because the Spaniard herself went through dark times in her football career she was the one who was able to find the lightness in every moment so easily it was an art the defender perfected over time.

“Don’t turn that off!”, you protested smiling weakly.

“Can anyone help me to top the pizzas or not?”, asked the blonde striker.

Luckily for her the Austrian was the first to offer her help as they swiftly went to the kitchen to give the food the last finishing touches before it was put into the oven.

Alessia's face was one of pure concentration: “What do you think more cheese?”

“Of course, more cheese!”, Laura declared.

The half-Italian nodded in agreement: “Alright.”

“Laia put on something more.”, Victoria began but was confidently interrupted by the Catalan woman.

She assured her grinning: “You don’t have to tell me, I’ve the best playlist for that.”

“Excuse me!?”, you formed your lips to a pout which could almost compete with Leah Williamson’s one as Laia switched to Latin dance music.

Laia's brown eyes twinkled mischievously at you, her hips starting to swing to the rhythm of the beat: “Just trust me on this.”

“Fine, but I won’t dance.”, you quickly clarified.

She shrugged unimpressed by your statement: “You don’t have to.”

“Good.”, you replied.

“But you will later.”, Laia stated firmly.

A soft smile was playing on your lips: “I’m unsure about that.”

“Girls, the pizza is done.”, Alessia chirmed, the delicious smell of the Italian dish which was made by her family recipe filled up the room.

When she and Laura placed the finished pizzas fresh from the oven on the table, Victoria clapped excitedly:” Amazing.”

“Come try it.”, the Austrian said, waving Victoria over to her.

While the midfielder sat down, Laura cut her a piece of pizza and held it in front of her face so she could take a bite.

Victoria chewed happily: “It’s so delicious.”

One after the other, you all joined the table, pouring each other wine and trying the pizzas.

You watched all your friends crowded your kitchen like they used to do a few months ago.

“At least you’re all happy now.”, you grinned.

Laia turned to you with a raised eyebrow: “You should be happy too.”

“I am.”, you replied a little too quickly. A half-truth that came too easily and that was hard to describe to other people.

Alessia shook her head. As usual, she looked right through you: “She is not.”

“Rude.”, you said. You weren’t offended but a little taken aback by how quickly she caught on to your lie.

The striker remained unimpressed: “At least you haven’t told your face that yet.”

You raised your eyebrows in surprise, you hadn’t realized that you were frowning. Your eyebrows had begun to knit together, creating a small crease on her forehead, and her molars were clenched together. A bit longer and you would have given yourself a headache by the end of the evening.

Victoria refilled your now empty wine glass with a gracious smile: “Yes, so how are you really.”

You took a deep breath, preparing yourself to let your guard down: “I’m okay.”

“You’re sure?”, Laura asked for confirmation.

“Yes. I just get a bit sad and nostalgic around the end of the year.”, you finally admitted.

Your friends went quiet. It wasn’t an uncomfortable silence but rather a thoughtful one which was quickly ended by Laia looking at you incredulously: “But you can be proud of yourself.”

“Proud? Are you serious?”, you laughed.

“Obviously I’m serious.”, the Spaniard nodded, glaring at you sternly.

You shook your head, the crease between your brows making a reappearance: “Of what?“

“Oh my god, are you kidding?”, Victoria suddenly burst out.

“No.”

The dutch midfielder heaved a frustrated sigh. “Remember when you moved in here? Look at you now.”

The memories came back with force like a ball hitting you right into the face during a football game. It was one and a half years ago and you should have been overjoyed to have just signed your first contract for Arsenal, but all your thoughts were preoccupied with your recent break-up. Your move to London was the last straw for your ex, she ended the relationship via text. The majority of your first few weeks at Arsenal were only made bearable by your housemates.

You bit your lip, trying not to laugh about your past self: “Vicky, I was a heartbroken wreck back then.”

“That’s what I’m saying! You’re so over it! You’ve grown so much as a player and as a person!”, she disagreed with you passionately.

You let your gaze wander lovingly over the faces of your beloved friends before concluding: “I grew only because of all of you.”

“Hey, no. With us all.”, Alessia corrected you promptly with a knowing smile playing on her pink lips.

She was right about that when you thought back fondly on the development of the friendship between the five of you.

The sense of togetherness you all developed on and off the pitch was nothing short of remarkable. Even at hard times when things with the head coach got difficult you stood together. Yes, you had befriended teammates in the past, but the true power of female friendship was evident in your former roommates.

“You’re right, Laia’s English improved so much since she moved to London.”, you remembered smirking.

“Excuse me?”, the Spaniard huffed playfully.

Laura patted her shoulder sympathetically:” It’s true.”

“Yeah, yeah, okay.”, Laia admitted.

You gratefully squeezed the striker's hand: “Thanks for the pizza, Lessi. It was great as always.”

“You’re welcome. I tried to perfect the recipe in the past year.”, Alessia proudly raised her chin.

With curiosity in her voice, the Austrian wanted to know:” Is it originally from your Italian family side.”

“Of course.”, the blonde replied, her laugh warming even the coldest of hearts.

Meanwhile Laia rose solemnly from her chair:” You know what, girls?”

“What? It’s not midnight yet.”, you remarked after you checked it on your phone.  The time really flew by when you spent it with your friends. While the conversation and the wine flowed.

The defender rolled her eyes in annoyance:” I can read a clock, y/n. Thank you very much.”

“So?”, you looked at her with anticipation.

“Yes, what are we doing?”, Laura questioned matching your excitement.

“It’s time for dancing.”, Laia announced grinning roguishly.

“No.”, you objected.

“Yes.”, she answered, her voice full of enthusiasm.

“Laia”, you warned her as the Catalan pretended not to have heard the warning and took your hands to lift you from your chair.

“Come on, y/n.”, Laura interjected.

“Ugh.”, you groaned while the fellow Arsenal players started to dance around you.

Slowly you began to move your body to the music as well, feeling the weight of the year being lifted from your shoulders as Alessia chirped in your ears:”You’ll feel better afterwards.”

The promise which the sentence held turned out to be true. The melancholy wasn’t gone entirely, but there was a lightness in your steps now which was new tonight.  

“We’re such bad dancers.”, you laughed out loud.

“Who cares?!”, Alessia asked, flailing her arms as she spun in circles around the room.

You thought about if for a second and then nodded: “Good point, actually.”

Victoria who almost knocked a small golden table lamp from one of the dressers while doing the robot, reminded you: “It’s just us!”

“And that’s more than enough.”, you said fondly as you watched your friends doing silly dance moves in your living room like they used to.

They didn’t hear you though. Instead, the music stopped, and your teammates suddenly scrambled through your apartment. A glance towards the clock revealed why. It was five minutes before midnight. Victoria and Laura ran out on the balcony, carrying snacks while Alessia and Laia frantically filled champagne glasses.

You met on the balcony exactly at midnight, quickly clinking your glasses together.

“Happy New Year everyone!”, Laura yelled into the night sky, right as the fireworks started around you.

Victoria pressed a quick kiss to the Austrians cheek before turning back to the group in front of her: “Happy New Year, girls!”

Your heart felt like it was going to burst out of your chest as you just stood there on the balcony, watching your former housemates and current teammates sip on their champagne and light some sparklers.

The nostalgia was still there but less sad and heavy. It started to transform into something that filled you with hopefulness and excitement for the new year. You felt at peace knowing that no matter what, the girls would always be by your side.

You blinked at them one more time: “Can’t wait for another year with my girls.”

gif and image source: https://www.tumblr.com/stargirlsfc/746487956612775936/lets-fucking-gooooo?source=share, https://pin.it/3K5c1msTJ

[hahaifolded]

Good... Really? - Simon "Ghost" Riley x POC!GN Reader Drabble Part 2

Part 1 - You go on a really bad date with Ghost (Angst) Author’s Note: I don’t know if y’all will find this funny but I did. Let me know if you want a part 3. This was really just for shits and giggles…

“Lieutenant, we need to talk?”

Soap knew Ghost wasn’t the best with people but he didn’t think he was this bad. Now with a clueless Simon in front of him, Johnny takes a deep breath.

“You know that date you went on?”

“With my future spouse? Yes.” Johnny nearly busts out laughing with that. There is not a single thought behind those eyes.

The Scottsman just takes a deep breath. “And it went well, right?” Ghost’s eyes crinkle as he happily nods his head.

“And do you mind telling me how?”

Simon looks up, almost reminiscing that “perfect” date.

“Well, I did exactly what you said.” And with that, Ghost goes through Soap’s advice.

“Don’t talk about work.” Yeah but that didn’t mean to ban it all together when they brought it up.

“Don’t say anything stupid.” By not talking to them…

“Make sure they feel comfortable to eat whatever they want.” Well that comment was not comforting AT ALL.

“If you can’t think of anything to talk about, talk about the weather or something.” Emphasis on SOMETHING.

“Speak honestly.” Way too honest there buddy.

Damn, and people think Soap is the dumb one.

“And Lieutenant, you don’t think there’s a chance that… I don’t know… that date didn’t go as well as you think it did?” Johnny could see the neurons trying to fire in Ghost’s head at that. But unfortunately due to the lack of activity in that head of his, they come back with nothing.

As Ghost shakes his head, Soap was at a lost. Did he not think yelling when you lightly touched him was not bad? How has Ghost made it this far?

“Lieutenant, I hate to tell you this but,” and with that, Johnny bursts the poor man’s bubble. The more he explained Ghost’s pitfalls, the more he saw the big guy deflate. This was supposed to be funny but as the light in his Lieutenant eye’s dimmed, Soap couldn’t find any humor in this (right now).

Once Soap finishes, the two sit in silence for a bit. Johnny patts Ghost’s back, trying to soothe Lt’s broken heart. This is just sad. While Soap tries to find the right words to comfort the heartbroken man, Ghost shoos his hand away and stares at the Scotsman. Before Johnny can say anything, Ghost swings.

“Woah woah woah, what the fuck,” cries Soap. He stands up, arms out, trying to maintain some distance between him and Ghost.

Ghost remains seated, eyes locked on Johnny. He points a finger at him and asks, “how are you going to fix this?”

“ME! FIX THIS? WHAT THE FUCK?” Soap yells. He couldn’t believe his ears.

“Well, this is your fault. I followed your advice.”

“NO YOU DIDNT!” Soap spins and scans the room. There had to be a camera recording this. “Ghost, I don’t know how but you literally did and DID NOT follow my advice at the same time.”

Thankfully, instead of attacking Soap again, Ghost slumps down in his seat. “How do I fix this?”

Johnny freezes. He’s never heard his Lieutenant so broken before. Damn, this man is in love. He slumps in the seat next to him.

Johnny genuinely didn’t know what to say. That date was bad. And you’re not going to take “nerves” as an answer. You respect yourself too much for such a shit answer. “Honestly I should have just let you be yourself. There’s no way you could have fucked up as bad as you did here,” the sergeant admits mindlessly.

Before Soap could think more on the matter, Ghost shoots up from his seat and practically sprints out the door. Johnny lurches forward before slumping back down.

John MacTavish was done playing cupid.

Word Count: 623

Thanks for reading! — Folded’s Page Guide + Masterlist

[glitch-but-ya]

The echo of who I once was.

"Let your memory of me fade with time" II

TAGS: Mentions of violence and death, dysphoria, mental health struggles.

WORD COUNT: 2,543 words Tag list: @withering-dream , @moonlight-inthe-sea A/N: For better understanding, I’d recommend reading Sylus’s anecdotes.

PART 1

!THIS STORY IS HEAVILY DEPENDENT ON "BEYOND CLOUDFALL" AND MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS!

Memories are both a curse and a blessing, don’t you think? That which gives us strength to push through the darkest parts of our lives can also be the one to drive us to the very edge of the cliff. The weight of them feels like a chain coiled around your throat, binding you to your past. Neither of us can escape destiny. But still, I wonder what would happen if neither of our memories were restored. Would you love me then? Or was I destined to never be yours?

Sylus didn’t know the answer. He kept reading.

When you told me that you loved me, I felt happy. I know how mundane that sounds. But when you said that I was yours, I felt as if my life suddenly had purpose. All my years of hardship had led me to you, and I was content. For the first time in my life, I felt like I was worth something—worth someone’s attention, worth living for. That’s why I couldn’t let you go—I couldn’t let go of the chance to live. I’m sorry.

He knows.

My selfishness, combined with this newfound sense of euphoria, led me to cling to you desperately and overwhelm you with my presence. I completely overlooked the obvious hints you threw at me occasionally, all because I wanted to believe that you loved me. I was scared. I thought that if I were to take notice, you’d abandon me, and I’d lose you. This is not an excuse, but simply an explanation. Whether you forgive me or not, well… I wouldn’t know anyway.

Sylus took a sip from his glass.

I don’t expect us to meet again.

He doesn’t either.

And that’s why, I want to tell you everything, so I can leave without regrets. Forgive me. This is the last selfish act I’ll perform.

Sylus set the envelope down, sealing it back with admirable precision. He threw his head back against the headboard and sighed. He couldn’t believe he let the aether core slip away. And he couldn't believe he couldn't find it in himself to reshape you into another form. In every possibility, you'd come around eventually. So why did he feel as helpless as a sculptor standing before his own crumbling statue? A part of him knew that you couldn't be changed. You loathed your former self, he could tell.

And to add to his frustration, he simply did not have time for this. He was due to a ‘business’ trip within the N109 zone—his presence was required at a seemingly ordinary auction trafficking illegal protocores. The leader of Onychinus was a busy man, after all. How could he let emotions overwhelm him when so much in his life depended on his nonchalance? He was a fool for thinking he could reform you. He had mistaken you for gold. Unfortunately, as softhearted as you were, you couldn’t be molten and hammered into what he wanted you to be. But he couldn’t deny that it was also partially his fault because he knew.

‘Please kill me.’

From the moment he used his aether core to listen in on your desires, he knew that you’d already lost what made you his sorceress. The heart that once yearned for bloodshed and vengeance was now reduced to a blubbering mess, waiting for the day it’d stop beating. The voices that once wished to claim his authority were replaced by a feeble, pitiful voice. You were weak and untainted, like the humans he hunted down for a couple of gold to add to his collection. And yet, a part of him held on. He didn’t know what it was. Denial, he assumed. The inability to accept that his beloved was no more. Or perhaps it was the guilt of injustice being done upon you. He had barely scratched the surface of your desires, after all. Perhaps there was more that lay beyond your wish to die. But whatever it was, it wasn’t her. Listening to your voice for longer wouldn’t bring her back. Even so, letting you go wasn’t the wisest choice either.

After all, his relationship with you served two purposes: love (formerly) and the aether core. Now, he’d lost the chance to claim both. All because he let his emotions take hold. Sylus felt pathetic. And for the first time, he doubted his own abilities. He was torn between the choice of taking the leap and bringing you back, and staying on the other end of the crumbling bridge to wait and see how things would unfold from here. The chance of another aether core existing on this planet was slim.

But not entirely impossible.

Sylus’s form loomed over the city below, his crimson eyes gazing into its depths. Lights dotted the cityscape in irregular patterns. A full moon hung proudly in the sky, almost as if welcoming his arrival. There was a crow perched on his shoulder. The crow had ruby eyes, quite similar to his own. Behind him stood two smaller, masked men, ready to obey his orders. A familiar wind howled past them—a dry breeze lacking warmth and life, carrying nothing but dust, reminiscent of the way you had hollowed out something within him. He stood, eyeing the crowds below. Not long after, he raised his head, gazing at the sky awash in hues of red. This auction was an incubator for human desires—greed, gluttony, and lust.

“Is everything ready?”

“Yes, boss!”, they chanted in unison. A slight smirk tugged at Sylus’s lips. Of course, he wouldn’t have attended such a low-class auction if something hadn’t caught his watchful eye. This time, what appeared was exactly what he sought. A valuable gem, a treasure eclipsing the finest of its kind—a certain aether core had been passed around insignificant auctions under the guise of an ordinary protocore. It had caught the attention of several other corporations, excluding his own. This time, the stakes were high, and failure could have severe consequences. He could lose everything. But did it really matter anymore? The only reason for his stay in this world was you. If he simply wished, he could start over on a planet far from yours, where he could live his life as a relentless conqueror, unbothered and undisturbed by your curse.

Sylus's hand unconsciously traveled to his eye—the very eye 'you' wished to claim so dearly. He grazed it with his fingers.

Sylus... I curse your soul...

He clenched his eyes shut.

Only I can grant you a true death.

He knew that the aether core in your heart wasn't the only one of its kind aside from his own. Surely, there existed another one somewhere across the cosmos. But that was the problem. Throughout the endless tapestry of planets, universes, and possibilities, where would he search? And amidst the legion of life forms across worlds, how could he be sure that his sovereignty surpassed all others? Earth was, by far, the easiest land to graze. So he couldn’t let go of this opportunity. Not yet.

If it were him a few months ago, the mere idea of leaving Earth would have torn him apart. But now, if the aether core slipped from his grasp, he would wander aimlessly until he caught wind of a new sighting. Perhaps, it was all a grand scheme of his own to escape you. Sylus had never fled from anything before.

His hands gripped the railing. It wasn’t the time to daydream. There was an opening laid out for him in plain sight. One rightfully timed strike and the aether core was his. His gaze scrutinized the large building before him, where the auction would take place.

May your memory of me fade with time.

Your words both held him back and urged him forward. A lovesick side of him cried out, begging him to open his eyes and try to understand the changes that had occurred. But his wrath would not let him. How dare you? After all these years of searching, after all the sacrifices he'd made, after all the pain he had endured in your place—how dare you betray him like this? Eventually, one arose triumphant. Very well, then. If you were going to leave, then so be it. He would let you have your way.

Taking a sharp breath, Sylus descended.

A sigh escaped your lips. You eyed yourself in the bathroom mirror, your hair falling like a veil over your face. Tracing the dips and curves of your body, you felt alien to yourself—flawed, unfamiliar. The incessant drip of water trickling down played monotonously in the background of your thoughts. You felt flawed. You couldn’t recognize yourself in the mirror.

Your hand shot out. Your fingers caressed your own figure, who stared back at you. "Who was I before this?" you whispered, your head tilting slightly. "You were me, weren't you? Then why…" Your hand stilled. The finger pressed down on the reflection of your face with increasing pressure. "I hate you. So why do I wish to be you?"

That night, you couldn’t squeeze in even a second of sleep. Something within you ached. You didn’t know if it was the wrathful throb in your head or the melancholic sting in your heart. Every time you shut your eyes, a figure emerged from the darkness. A white-haired woman with scarlet eyes and sharp features. She looked nothing like you. The mere sight of her formed a lump in your chest. Her face radiated mock cruelty and greed, like a simmering pot of rotting wine; disgusting and bubbling. Her form was hauntingly elegant, almost ethereal—if not for the maggots writhing beneath her skin. An ever-present source of desire seethed from within her soul. It stank like the decaying flesh of a dead rabbit. Her soul reeked of the miserable fixations of humanity, the same delusions that transformed humans into harbingers of destruction. She was the type to bring death upon those she deemed unworthy, to burn whoever she pleased, and to warm the few who stood by her side. She was like a blazing, crackling fire that emerged from a hearth set alight by its own gluttony and greed. She was utterly human. There was no other word to describe it. She was exactly who you loathed: an usurper wrapped in a cloak of fragile beauty.

She didn’t just occupy your sleep. Even at work, you found yourself subconsciously drawn to the thought: How could she ever be you? You couldn’t fathom it. Even in a past life, the thought of yourself turning out like her seemed inconceivably alien. You figured that if there were a past incarnation of you, she would resonate with you as if she were an extension of yourself. But every time you lingered on her memory, you felt increasingly isolated. The harder you tried to reach out, the further she drifted—like a small boat being pushed farther from a warship. The larger ship's mighty waves pushed the boat farther and farther, no matter how desperately the boat rowed toward it. Although, the main concern was staying afloat. Your main concern should’ve been the aether core. Wasn’t that why you stayed? Was it truly because of love, and not the opportunity to extract information about the aether core from Sylus? You couldn’t believe yourself. For a moment, you wondered, how could you let the aether core slip away?

Your grip on your desk tightened, your knuckles turning white. The voices around you blurred into one until the only thing you could hear were the whispers of your own destructive mind spitting venom into your ears. Captain Jenna’s voice diminished in importance, and you found yourself focusing more on the thought of her.

After experiencing the dream of your past, her sight plagued your mind. Sometimes, she was clad in jewels (all while she reeked of greed). Other times, she was driving the greatsword into the dragon's chest. You couldn’t deny that if she hadn’t fought back, she probably wouldn’t have lived long enough to become the dragon's beloved. Whereas you would’ve been killed taking a different approach. You are grateful for her unwavering will to live, and you are grateful that she brought Sylus into your life.

But what you could never forgive was the image of herself she carved into his heart. The powerful ‘sorceress’ feared by all, the young dragon fledgling whose horns had just begun to sprout—how he could worship that, you wondered. She was just a weaker version of himself. Perhaps she possessed something you couldn’t see. Either way, what was the point of lingering on this matter? There’s no use in assigning blame. No matter how ferociously you loathe her, she will always occupy his heart. Revenge has no purpose. It only initiates endless suffering and a cycle of inflicting pain. All you could do was move on with your life. You weren’t going to meet him again, anyway. Or so you thought.

"And you will be going to the N109 zone," Captain Jenna began, breaking your trance with a simple sentence and jolting you awake. "Any queries?" she concluded. You weren’t sure how you looked. Looking back, you probably should’ve asked Tara to hold a mirror to your face. You must’ve looked aggravatingly stupid. Like an imbecile who had just hopped into the wrong room. Perhaps Sylus's talk about "destiny" and "fate" wasn’t just to sound wise and philosophical. You were seriously wondering how fate could’ve stabbed you in the back like this. Your vow to Sylus would be broken due to a silly mission. How comical.

But you couldn’t just accept this, of course. So, after the meeting had ended, you walked into Jenna’s office.

"There is nobody more capable of pulling off this mission than you." Fate must really be playing games with you, huh? "But, Captain…" you opened your mouth to protest, but were quickly silenced by Jenna’s sharp gaze. "You’ve been to the N109 zone, haven’t you? And you came back alive. This isn’t just any mission—it’s critical. We need someone who can handle the pressure. Someone familiar with the dangers." Her gaze scanned your form. "This mission is not only dangerous but extremely vital. That is why I will be pairing you with Xavier. Only the two of you can execute this mission flawlessly." You tilted your head curiously. You zoned out during the meeting, so you could only assume it was something related to the aether core. What else could be so vital as to require the best hunter on board? But if Xavier is with you, perhaps you can find an excuse to steer clear of Sylus. Not that you expect him to show himself to you openly, but letting him know that you’re here with a hunter only accentuates that you are here strictly for business. Although you don’t want Xavier to be caught up in this, this mission may lead you to crucial knowledge about your very own aether core. You looked down and placed a hand where your heart would be. You couldn’t let this chance slip away.

"So, I believe the two of you won’t disappoint," the Captain said, turning to you, her chin raised high. You immediately straightened your posture and cleared your throat. "Yes, ma’am."

Hello!! I wanted to say: thank you so much for your votes regarding the previous fic! Although I’d intended to keep it as an ‘angst-with-no-comfort’ oneshot, I decided against it due to some people commenting on how a part two would be great (I couldn’t resist writing the story anyway. I had a plan for it in my head beforehand which I’d intended to keep to myself. The comments only fuelled that desire further). I do hope this doesn’t end up becoming a major flop. I apologize for the time it took to write this much. I’ve been very busy lately; unfortunately, I do not see myself having free time in the future either. But I’ll try my best to keep up with this! Oh, and, for the people who want to keep viewing the initial ending as it was, you can! I understand that some people may not be happy with this series. So, you are free to interpret it as you wish! I had multiple endings planned for this anyway. And, YES! The title of the series has officially been changed.

[meetinginsamarra]

Fanfics I Really Liked in November 2024

So. Since I keep a list of what I´ve read anyway (there´s always a list), I will rec all the fics I´ve wholly enjoyed on a monthly basis. Old and new, canon or AU, big or small authors, long or short but nearly always Johnlock (-ish).

++++

Sine Nomine by SilentAuror @silentauroriamthereal

As Mycroft reviews the footage from Culverton Smith's morgue, he revisits his original question: whether John Watson would be the making of his brother, or make him worse than ever. He's come to a conclusion, but decides to give John one last chance. So he gives him a choice.

A suspenseful S4 fix-it with a fearsome Mycroft, John's redemption arc and some surprises. Happy ending, of course!

Shallow Grave by SilentAuror @silentauroriamthereal

Starts as Sherlock's plane is taking off at the end of His Last Vow. When he finds out that Moriarty is alive and that he's being recalled from his mission, Sherlock decides that he should have told John how he felt before he left. So he walks off the plane and kisses him.

HLV fix-it with lots of pining and misunderstandings and a happy ending!

My, She Was Yar by blueink3

YAR: adjective (nautical term, of a sailboat) agile, quick, easily manoeuvred

Or, the exact opposite of what Sherlock Holmes is when he stumbles into John Watson's cinema and turns his life upside down.

Lovely different first meeting with a bit of hurt/comfort!

The Skin Over My Heart by standbygo @blogstandbygo

Sherlock and John are still trying to adjust to Sherlock's return from his hiatus when John's friend Bill Murray brings them a case. Someone is targeting the LGBTQA+ members of Bill's unit. John and Sherlock go undercover at the unit, but when they end up having to flirt to flush out the suspect, Sherlock realizes he's in over his head.

Fake boyfriends for a case is always a good start for friends to lovers. LOL

Whispers of Highgate by standbygo @blogstandbygo

During his hiatus, Sherlock is chased into the Paris Catacombs, with unexpected consequences.

A little bit of spookyness and a twist at the end!

Christmas Lights by emma221b

It's tough being homeless, especially at Christmas. When Sherlock finds himself cold and alone on the streets of London, he can see no way back. What he needs now is one more miracle, and he might just be about to find it - even if it's not the one that he thinks that he wants.

I love this young Sherlock and the tragic backstory that made him go homeless. Mycroft is a good big brother. Hurt/comfort.

[queenofhawkins]

Love As Pure As This

Main Pairing: Steve Harrington X Reader Summary: You've just given birth and Steve admires you and your newborn Author's Note: Hi guys... It's been a while. I'm sorry about that. I was finishing school and going through life. I actually wrote 95% of this last year and literally finished it 5 minutes ago so if it seems kinda odd, that might be why. Hope you like it because I honestly kinda do. Warnings: Pregnancy

Steve never thought he could love as strongly as he was right now. As he held your son in his arms, the baby sleeping softly nestled in a blanket, and as you laid sleeping in the hospital bed, Steve knew that love like this was pure. Steve looked down at your son, Isaac Harrington. When he was born, he looked a bit like a potato, squishy and pale, but a few days later he was shaping up to look more like a baby. He had a tuft of dark hair atop his head and Steve loved the smell of him. He smelled so fresh and beautiful, untainted by the horrors of the world. 

“I promise to you,” Steve whispered into Isaac’s head. “Nothing will ever hurt you. Not as long as me and your mama are here.” His voice was soft and gentle, not wanting to wake either of you. Isaac stretched and whined before Steve caressed a finger over the baby’s chubby cheek. He had been waiting for this moment since he found out you were pregnant. Waited for the chance to hold his child and love them dearly and strongly. 

“You know, your mama is one of the strongest people I’ve ever met. She was always strong, pretty too.” Isaac yawned and Steve felt his heart burst full of love. This little boy that he had helped make was finally here in his arms. This little boy who had been kicking Steve’s hands through your stomach. It made tears fill Steve’s eyes and he sniffed so he wouldn’t wake you or Isaac. 

There was something surreal about holding his son, his son who had been in your stomach just a few days ago. Steve could remember every kick Isaac had made, wanting his mommy and daddy to know that he was there, that he could hear them. That he loved them. 

Steve looked up when he heard the door to your hospital room open up. One of the nurses that had been so nice and sweet to you walked in with a bright smile on her face. She held a small blanket in her hands and she placed it on the armchair in the corner of the room. 

“Hey, Dad. How are we this morning?” She asked quietly. She approached slowly, seeming to know that Steve didn’t want to not have Isaac in his arms anymore. He smiled back at her and glanced down at Isaac. Isaac cooed softly and shifted before settling down, nuzzling his body into Steve’s.

“I think we’re doing okay.” Steve’s voice was light an airy, a portrayal of his emotions. The nurse smiled as she walked over to your side, careful to not wake you. Steve watched closely, because while he trusted the nurse, you were his wife. His gorgeous wife that gave him the best thing of all. He needed you to be safe. 

“I’m just going to let you know that the doctor is thinking about keeping her just a little longer. She’s having some blood pressure issues. Nothing too serious but we just want to keep an eye on it.” The nurse said quietly as she rounded the bed, pulling the clipboard out of the foot of your hospital bed and jotting down a few notes. Steve nodded, still slightly rocking Isaac. The baby stretched and yawned, making Steve look down and smile. 

The nurse placed the clipboard back and went to the hand sanitizer propped on the wall, rubbing it over her hands before opening the door. 

“The doctor will be in in about 15 minutes.” She said with a smile. Steve nodded as she closed the door. He looked over to you, smiling softly. This was what he wanted all the time. A gorgeous wife, and a beautiful child. A family he could love for eternity. And he had that. 

And Steve was content.

[mejaemin]

como te quiero yo - h.js

chapter one ˖⁺‧₊˚✦

wc ✿₊⊹ 1.3k

synopsis ✿₊⊹ the relationship between rising artist joshua hong and you, popular beauty influencer, has finally come to light. this story follows you and your lover, living life happily despite whatever anyone says in the outside world.

warnings ✿₊⊹ established relationship, angst, hurt/comfort, mentions of hate/criticism, this is not an idol au, allusions to breaking up, it doesn’t happen tho !!! i love love and writing this made me feel single

author's note ✿₊⊹ happy birthday to shua !!! ఇ ◝‿◜ ఇ i love this man so bad its not even funny. i couldn’t put it into words even if i tried. here’s a little something to celebrate his day ♡ it’s a little sad for a birthday gift so maybe (maybe) i’ll write smth happier for a proper one ??? until now enjoy this !!!

main masterlist | ctqy masterlist

⊹₊ ˚‧︵‿₊୨୧₊‿︵‧ ˚ ₊⊹

it’s been just under two weeks since you and joshua have publicly announced your relationship and he’s already gone offline. it took months of discussion and procrastination out of fear, but with the support of both your teams, you decided to go public. it’s been almost a year since you got together, and it only feels right to say something. not everyone was happy, but you backed the decision up with the very unapologetic fact that you both were adults, fully developed ones at that, and to say either of you to really be single at this age would be a lie.

to say that joshua’s nerves were completely under control, you’d be lying. it’s not that he’s worried about disappointing anyone (though that’s still upsetting for him to think about), it’s more about the chance of fans not accepting it. they can whine and complain all they want, but for them to do so and then additionally ignore or stop being a fan would break his heart. it was already iffy for him to do something like this so early in his career, so for him to try something like this was quite dangerous.

don’t even get him started on you. you’ve already been popular on the internet for a while, and had millions of supporters across all platforms. you were loved by many, enough to feel comfortable with sharing the news. you waited for joshua to be ready, however, out of respect. when you first got together you revealed that you were no longer single, and for his own comfortability you kept it at that. ever supportive of his feelings, you stayed patient and waited for him to be ready to reveal whatever else he wanted to.

contrary to him, you were handling it well. with lots of experience, you were able to keep calm and ignore everyone’s negative comments. there were a few times where you were upset by comments towards your relationship, but again you weren’t afraid to clap back. joshua stayed silent, still afraid of upsetting anyone, but through the many couple photos and replies on live streams, you made sure everyone knew you weren’t quitting because a few people were unhappy.

enduring the past few weeks of this is what led you to where you are now, sitting across from each other at the dinner table of your shared home in silence as you eat. joshua’s non-dominant arm is stretched across the table holding your hand, his thumb leaving comforting strokes on the back of your palm. when you look at where you’re connected, the silver bracelet matching your own glimmers under the soft lighting of your dining room.

you’re really trying your hardest to stay strong for your lover, but it’s hard when you worry so much, especially with how he has yet to let you in. this is why you stay dead silent while eating, sacrificing your regular chitchat to make sure you don’t break. however, joshua puts his fork down and speaks up, calling your name in a soft whisper.

when you look up, he continues. “do you think we’re doing the right thing?”

you’re about to ask what he means when his eyes flicker to your bracelets and back up. the tears pool on your waterline as you respond. “us? of course we are, joshua. are you really thinking what i think you are?” the hurt in your voice couldn’t be hidden even if you tried.

his eyes widen and he immediately begins shaking his head. “n- no, baby, of course not. i just.. was now the right time?” when you finally manage to clear the tears in your eyes and look at him, he’s got a troubled look in his eyes as he bites at his lip.

you let go of his hand so you can get out of your seat. walking over to stand between his legs, you cradle his face in your palms and pull his lip from his teeth with your thumb. on instinct he wraps his arms around your waist and rests his chin on your stomach. you run your finger over his bottom lip, gliding over the teeth marks and reddened spots from being bitten at. you lean down to kiss his forehead, returning to your previous position to run your fingers through his hair.

your face is so full of love, trying so hard to show him how real your feelings are. your hands caress his skin with utmost care, knowing him well enough to be sure of the fact that there’s so much doubt and anxiety in his head that needs help being removed. he’s still new to this lifestyle, and so you coddle him that much more as he makes his adjustment. unfortunately, the start of his career was not so kind to him. you can only hope it gets better.

after a few beats of silence, joshua hides his face in your stomach, and you keep quiet to continue massaging his scalp. just a minute later you feel water begin to seep through your shirt, and his body shudders as he cries silently. you pull away, kneeling in front of him.

the sight in front of you makes your heart hurt, seeing the way he’s avoiding eye contact as tears continue to run down his cheeks. you bring your hands to either side of his face, thumbs gliding across his skin gently while wiping tears away.

“oh, love…” you start. just hearing your words has his head dipping down into his hands, his emotions getting the best of him.

you get up, leading him to your shared bedroom. laying down first, you invite him into your arms before covering your bodies in the comforter. he lays there on your chest for a few moments before clearing his throat, having calmed down.

“i just.. can’t stop reading comments, and i’m-“ he pauses, taking a deep breath. you return to stroking his hair, holding him close to your chest. “i’m worried that they’re right.”

you kiss his crown. “about what?”

“they think you could do better. that you could find someone bigger than me.” he speaks softly, almost mumbling.

“that’s not true, you know that.” you’re immediately shooting the idea down, refusing to let it even become something bigger.

“but seriously. i’m an inconvenience to you. if you were with someone who was as popular as you, you’d probably get support. but everyone’s mad because i’m just some random guy.” he’s sitting up now, looking into your eyes. it’s always been a thing for him to speak with you directly about serious things.

you grab his hands, holding them tightly in your own. the little magnet attached to the end of your bracelets comes together, and you can’t help but smile at it. “you’re not just some random guy, you’re my amazing boyfriend who could never ever be an inconvenience to me. i don’t care about how popular you are, because you make me feel so happy. you’re literally everything i could ever ask for, and truthfully, i’d rather have you than anyone of my status because they’re all assholes.”

he nods, choosing to stay silent. you squeeze his hands in silent reassurance, and he does the same. you speak up once again, “you don’t inconvenience me. you make my life infinitely better, shua. please don’t listen to them, okay?”

he takes one hand away to wipe his eyes one last time before looking at you, smiling softly. “okay.” he pulls you into a hug, your heart-shaped magnets splitting, your real ones connecting in your embrace. “thank you so much darling, for everything. i’m very lucky to have you.”

you pull your head away to kiss him, soft and full of love. “of course, love. i’ll always be here for you, and we’ll survive this. i’ll make sure of it.”

he hums, not responding in favor of keeping you in his arms. you stay just like that for the rest of the night, in each other’s arms. it started out rough, but ended so much better. words of affirmation are all that were needed to begin the process of healing wounds, and it proves that you’re right. nobody is being inconvenienced, and your love runs deep enough to prove that this is only a minor road bump, and everything will smooth out in the near future.

⊹₊ ˚‧︵‿₊୨୧₊‿︵‧ ˚ ₊⊹

taglist ✿₊⊹ empty… 💔

[aspoonofsugar]

Hi

A lot of people keep saying Sera from Hazbin hotel and Satan from Helluva Boss are quite similar of how they run Heaven and Hell and personality wise. Would it be possible if you can do an analysis of how similar they are and how heaven and hell isn’t much different from Sera and Satan running both places.

Hi!

Sorry for the wait and thank you for the ask because I have been wanting to discuss this since the episode first came out!

SERA AND SATAN: KNOWLEDGE AND JUSTICE

Sera and Satan are superficially opposites:

Sera is an angel, who presents herself as virtuous, merciful and understanding. She is polite towards Charlie and acts as if she is gonna judge her Hazbin Hotel idea fairly.

Satan is a demon, who presents himself as strict, violent and scary. He is dismissive towards I.M.P., openly racist and all he wants is to find someone to punish.

However, neither is exactly what they seem, as both are wearing a facade.

Sera isn't interested in hearing Charlie out. She manipulates events, so that the Princess of Hell has no chance of succeeding. Moreover, she uses Adam's malice to present him as Charlie's opponent, when she is the one getting in the way. In other words, Sera is the mastermind behind Charlie's failure.

Satan isn't really that much in control. He is easily manipulated by different people, as Andrealphus, Blitz and Stolas all trick him. Moreover, he can't really hide the growing tension among the Sins, no matter how much he tries. In other words, Satan is really no mastermind nor leader of Hell.

What is the point of Sera and Satan both wearing masks?

Both Sera and Satan try to fit the role of leader they are given. Sera is the High Seraphim of Heaven, so she must be perfect and rightful. Satan is instead the Leader of the Deadly Sins, so he must command respect and instill fear.

Most of all, Sera and Satan believe Heaven and Hell can keep going only if the status quo is uphold.

This idea permeates all their actions, including their role as judges. Sera is in charge of a "questioning", whereas Satan presides a "trial". However, neither of them is a good fit.

A questioning is about knowledge. It is about questioning the status quo to discover if there is a new way to do things. It is about pursuing truth and understanding. Still, Sera herself has knowledge she doesn't disclose:

Lute: SHHH. Sir, what was the Seraphim's one rule? Adam: Uuughhh, "No one but the exorcists can know about the exterminations". I know, fine. 

Not only that, but she doesn't want the other angels to ask difficult questions:

Sera: This questioning stops now. We know when a soul arrives, we know when they pass divine judgment, it is our job to ensure these souls are safe.

She uses ignorance as a weapon to keep the system in place.

A trial is about justice. It is about judging if a person is guilty or innocent. It is about giving retributions, which are proportionate and fair. However, Satan is "accuser", as his name implies, "jury", as he manipulates the other demons' votes:

Satan: Why don't we take a vote. Who wants to listen to hours of testimony? Who wants to kill this imp bastard and get home for lunch?

And "judge", as he makes the final decision:

Satan: So you see Next to me, your master plans all look so small Little mice When you break my rules You pay the price!

He embodies a draconian law system. In this sense, he himself is "the law". He is an unjust justice, which strikes fear in people.

Ignorance and fear are what Sera and Satan use to preserve things as they are. They do so because they both believe "order" is necessary to prevent chaos. And yet, both their authorities are challenged during "Welcome to Heaven" and "Mastermind". This happens because two characters choose to stand up against them.

EMILY AND STOLAS: UNDEXPECTED OPPONENTS

Emily and Stolas are respectively a Seraphim and a Goetia. So, they are members of the groups Sera and Satan are doing the interests of. In fact, both Emily and Stolas are powerful, sheltered and at the pinnacle of their respective hierarchies. All they have to do is to stay in their place to keep indulging in their privilege. And yet, both decide to side with respectively Charlie, a demon, and Blitz, an imp.

Emily, differently from Sera, is curious about Charlie's idea and she is interested in discovering the truth about how souls get to Heaven:

Emily: Yeah, why isn't he here?

She is genuinely pursuing knowledge and virtue:

Emily: To think that I admired you Well, I don't need your condescension I'm not a child to protect Was talk of virtue just pretension? Was I too naïve to expect you To heed the morals you're purveying?

Stolas, differently from Satan, doesn't want I.M.P. to die, so he uses the classist ideology Satan understands to manipulate him into showing mercy:

Stolas: I came down just as soon as I heard of the imp Stood accused of a devilish crime Could it be that a worm such as this half a brain Could concoct such a plot so sublime? Does this fool deserve the flame? Or is someone else to blame?

He is acting out of personal feelings, rather than political ideology. However, he is protecting lower demons at a high personal cost:

Stolas: I am the mastermind, the hand that holds the strings! No simple imp of mine could master the disaster Oh it stings! That you thought You had caught the schemer of the schemes I wrought! I confess! It was me and I have no regrets!

Emily and Stolas's "rebellion" is interesting for two reasons.

1) It leads to a moment in You Didn't Know and Mastermind, where Emily/Charlie (directly) and Stolas/Blitz (indirectly) challenge Heaven and Hell.

Charlie and Emily: If Hell is forever, then Heaven must be a lie  If angels can do whatever, and remain in the sky The rules are shades of gray when you don't do as you say When you make the wretched suffer just to kill them again

Here Emily and Charlie have the higher moral ground over Sera, as they sing a reprise of Hell is Forever. They are calling out the High Seraphim of Heaven on her hypocrisy and daring to say Heaven itself is turning into Hell.

Stolas: You're my light Blitzo: You're my heart Blitzo and Stolas: Only death can rend our love apart!

Here Stolas and Blitz are having a metaphorical wedding. They affirm their love with a formula similar to "until death do us apart". Moreover, this exchange happens in front of the embodiment of law (Satan). Stolas and Blitz's relationship is symbolically disrupting the balance between the higher class and the lower demons. They are challenging Hell's bigoted views.

2) It forces Sera and Satan to deal with Emily and Stolas's resistance.

On the one hand Sera insists Emily should ignore what just happened and keep going with the duty Heaven assigned her. She tries to enforce "ignorance" on Emily:

Sera: It is my position as the head Seraphim to protect our people at all costs. And it's your position to keep them happy and joyful. Emily: How can I bring joy when I now know we are bringing misery to thousands of innocent people?

On the other hand Satan makes an example out of Stolas, so that none of the other Goetia will dare to challenge the status quo. He "frightens" the rest of Hell with Stolas's punishment:

Satan: No. Ooh, ooh. No, no. You still definitely fucked up, we just need to figure out a fitting punishment for you.

What's interesting is that both Sera (directly) and Satan (indirectly) compare Emily and Stolas to Lucifer:

Sera: Please.... if you start to question... you could end up like Lucifer: Fallen. I couldn't bear to see you suffer that fate, so please, let me worry about this, ok?

Sera does not want Emily to end up fallen, like Lucifer.

Satan: STOLAS! I hereby strip you of your status, your power, and your title for the next hundred years. You will have to live amongst the citizens of Hell and revel in your failings!

Satan banishes Stolas, just like Heaven banished Lucifer.

Why is the fallen angel so important?

LUCIFER'S FAILURE

Sera: Well, you failed to control the demons' unrest, and now Lucifer is involved, setting up an audience for his misguided daughter. 

Satan: I've ruled the endless dark Since long before the golden angel's fall

Sera and Satan know Lucifer personally and used to share their political role with him:

Sera and Lucifer were both Seraphims, at the top of Heaven's hierarchy

Satan and Lucifer are both Deadly Sins and Lucifer used to be the leader in Satan's place

However, Lucifer ended up disappearing from both of their lives. First, he fell and left Heaven forever. Then, he got more and more depressed and became uninvolved in Hell's ruling.

It is unknown what Sera and Satan's personal relationship with Lucifer was, but right now they both seem to resent him and are trying to erase his memory.

Sera is annoyed by just mentioning Lucifer's name and she clearly projects her unsolved feelings for him on Charlie. She sees the Princess of Hell as just an extension of Lucifer (daughter of the Morningstar) and is biased against her project because she sees it as an echo of Lucifer's past dream.

Satan is angry at Lucifer and is using his absence to take over his Kingdom. He even changes their shared past by presenting himself as the first rightful rule of Hell. He also imposes a policy, which ironically punishes people for sins similar to Lucifer's original one.

In short, Sera and Satan represent Lucifer double failure:

Sera is a Seraphim, who upholds Heaven's "order" and thinks changing Heaven in any capacity is impossible and dangerous. All because Lucifer's attempt ended up in a disaster, which broke the world. She embodies Lucifer's failure to reform Heaven.

Satan is a Sin, who imposes in Hell a law very similar to Heaven's. He upholds a hierarchy, whcih is just a mirror of Heaven's one. He is Sera's parody, in a sense. He represents Lucifer's failure to rule Hell and to make it an alternative to Heaven.

So, Lucifer failed twice. He failed to create a better universe and he failed to live as happily as possible in Hell. Moreover, as King of Hell he failed both at foreign policy (the exterminations) and at domestic policy (Hell's classism).

CHARLIE AND BLITZ: PICKING UP THE PIECES

Charlie and Blitz are meant to pick up Lucifer's pieces and to help both the universe (Charlie) and society (Blitz) to change.

Charlie will deal directly with Lucifer (and Lilith)'s original sin and fix the universe they broke. When it comes to Hell's politics, she is going to grow into a political leader, a true princess in a sense:

Charlie: 'Cause right now, we need a leader And it seems to me that Destiny has picked me to be that If you'll permit me So who's with me?

In particular, she is gonna gain more power and influence in the Pride Ring and is gonna take charge of foreign policy (the relationship between Heaven and Hell).

Blitz will disrupt Hell's hierarchy thanks to his business and relationship with Stolas. He will break free from the system:

Blitzo: All I was trying to do was rise above this stupid fucking place YOU ALL FORCED US INTO!

In particular, he is gonna show new paths for imps to advance their statuses and is gonna impact domestic policy (Hell's classism).

Charlie and Blitz's respective "court episodes" are key steps in their parallel journeys, both on a personal level and on a political level.

On a personal level, they both have a revelation about their love interest:

Charlie discovers Vaggie is an angel and sees her darkest side. She needs to go through this because she must realize the world is gray and more complicated than what she thinks.

Blitz realizes Stolas's feelings for him and admits his own for Stolas. He sees Stolas's light, in a sense. He needs to go through this because he must understand the world can be warmer and more beautiful than he thinks.

On a political level, both Blitz and Charlie manage to mess Sera and Satan's "order".

Charlie highlights Sera's hypocrisy and for a moment she gets through to the other angels. Even if she loses, she is eventually proven right by Sir Pentious's rebirth as an angel:

Blitz survives Satan's judgement and shows other imps things can change for the better. He gives hope to the lower demons and inspires them not to let Hell define who they are:

On a final note, it is interesting that everything Sera and Satan do to keep things as they are actually backfires.

Sera approves of the exterminations to make sure demons won't upraise. However, this leads Charlie to lead Hell's resistance. Sera dismisses Charlie's Hazbin Hotel project. And yet, precisely because of Sera's refusal to look for a peaceful solution, Sir Pentious dies in the battle and becomes an angel.

Satan spends the trial trying to come up with a punishment, which will strike fear in the hearts of the citizens of Hell. He first decides to kill all I.M.P., but then changes his mind when Stolas tells him this would just turn Blitz into a martyr. The end result is that Satan broadcasts Blitz's struggle and victory throughout all of Hell and makes him a hero.

These are my main thoughts on Sera and Satan's foiling! Of course things may change as the two stories unfold.

In any case, thanks you for the ask and a happy new year!

[emisafan]

I hope you don't mind me adding my thoughts to this. It's really intressting to see someone else bring this up.

I actually thought quite a bit about the "calling out player behaviour" thing. And I think it's interesting you bring up Undertale to compare to Disco Elysium, because I had a conversation about these specifically in the same context. There's selfawareness in both of these games.

Not only with the shops but in DE specifically for example the game calling out player behaviour like useing the fastest mode of travel ("What's with all the running?"), checking everywhere for anything to pick up and wanting to get every little piece of information out of conversations (players being courious and nosy). I think it's handled quite beautifully, in the way that it's explained as parts of the world or character traits. For example finding out that the behaviour of scavenging containers is also named "Jamrock Shuffle" and seems to be normal for people having grown up in Jamrock, looking for shiny things. The running seems to be something Harry's always done, as well as pressing people to spill the tea ("can-opening" as they call it.) Finding explanations and reasoning weird player-behavior into the world, normalises it as "that's just Harry" and we get to learn about him. Think about it. Do you jog *everywhere*? Do you crack open containers and go through peoples belongings like a street cat looking for scraps of food? I doubt it, but for Harry here, given his past as a kid on the streets, a former gym teacher, and professional can opener, it's all normal, apparently. Or for you, playing another RPG, having the need for talking to and stealing from every NPC you can ingrained into your soul.

I feel that Undertale is more direct about it, by actually doing the Earthbound thing and calling You - the player - out directly. It's not as.... "self contained" as DE is because it literally calls out reloading, saying "I know what you did" which feels deeply illegal, because it shouldn't know. Also, we don't know who the protagonist is. A self insert, maybe, but to me it was hinted that Frisk is actually their own person. We don't know much about them. Is there anything about them? They are just a kid. Did we just posess them?(I'm going to be honest, it's been a while I played the game so maybe I'd have more to say here) But also, the 4th Wall thing is a big part of Undertale. You are your own entity, kinda part of the game. You don't play the game, you play "with it". (If that makes any sense I don't know)

Both games seem to be very aware of the players and have solid knowledge of their "target audience" and the audiences knowledge of the genre, in the way they try to predict certain behavious. When playing these games, they know what seems like the most appealing choice would be. (The moment authority admits that the options next to putting the gun in your mouth pale in comparison comes to mind. Undertale being aware of player greediness "take just one" candy bowl and the snowman, calling you out immediately. Essentially they try to present you with an option you are unlikely to refuse.) You could say it's manipulative. Getting the player where they want them, making them think they have much of a choice. (I think this part is even more present in Deltarune, since it just tells you upfront, if we want to add it to the equation)

(Having brought up the "Just take one" candy bowl from Undertale, makes me wonder if interactions that get you Honour Points in DE are kind of equivalent. Like returning the pin to René instead of taking it. Also greediness also called out in not giving away Kim's hankerchief because "it's too precious", though, you don't get called out much otherwise. Also, bringing up Earthbound again, it's like the moment you steal all of the cookies from Jeffs Friends birthday presents - absolute guilt trip. I don't know how well you know Earthbound, but chances are, if you like Undertale, you might like it too.)

Trying to conclude:

I think they both have a similarity in how they are aware player behaviour that would be strange in real life. Both are manipulative, attempting to "know" you as their target audience. They are different in how they deal with the knowledge, making it either a You (the Player) thing or a you (the Protagonist) thing. Also, I'd argue Undertale makes you feel more guilty for your actions than DE, maybe because you are more seperated from Harry than from 'You'. (They are also different in how they treat the relationship between the player and the protagonist and placing the Player in the world, but I can't put it into words right now.)

Woah that's a lot of text. I have no idea if any of that was understandable, it's not easy getting my thoughts on this in order. I think there's more I could say, but before it takes overhand I need to stop for now. (I spent a long time here already)

Remember in Undertale when you try to sell your items to the bunny girl and she's like "This is a shop, not a pawn shop." And that becomes a bit at every shop (minus the tem shop) and we're all like "Wow! It is kind of strange how normal it is in games for you to be able to just sell things wherever to whoever. What a funny running gag based on the absurdities of video game tropes!" Okay well do you also remember in Disco Elysium when you're at the Frittte shop and you keep asking the clerk to explain things to you and it's obvious you're annoying her and she doesn't know or care about the lore behind the items she's just the clerk who sells stuff? It's the same kind of fun jab at the genre, and a fun jab at You for having certain expectations, that's part of why I think these games are comparable, equal and opposite. They're two sides of the intersection of "Video Game" and "Real Life", but also about relationships. The comparison is at time dubious, at times a little stretching, a little too vague and too broad, but I think there's something to comparing the two, because they both represent two very different kinds of story driven computer RPG's. One has more of an emphasis on world building, one has more of an emphasis on character building, but they both use both aspects to compliment each other by connecting characters to the world, it's a fun study and I could just go on about it. I'll bite the bullet and get a video editing software sometime, I got a fresh new computer with storage to work with so maybe I'll get on that sometime. Once I've made a coherent and compelling point about it I won't have to think about it ever again.

[iovebarca]

Back To Friends? - Pau Cubarsi

Authors note: I know i havent posted in a while and i honestly haven't been on this app at all mainly cause of this dumb situationship i had, but i dont want to get into too much details haha. I'm defo not going back to regularly posting cause my creativity is really low but i want to try and be active more often :)

WC: 1000+

warnings: incorrect grammar (probably), my first language isn't english so if you notice any mistakes please tell me, fluff!

The sunlight was merciless, streaming through the thin curtains of your room and landing squarely on the bed. It chased away the comforting shadows of the night, and with them, any chance of pretending this wasn’t real. You blinked against the brightness, a dull ache blooming in your chest as you shifted beneath the covers.

The other side of the bed was cold. Empty. You turned your head and saw him: Pau, sitting on the edge, his back to you, one hand gripping the edge of the mattress and the other scrubbing through his hair. His shirt lay crumpled at his feet, and he hadn’t put it back on yet, like he couldn’t bring himself to move beyond this moment—but couldn’t stay in it, either.

You hesitated, your throat dry, before you broke the silence. “Pau?”

He stiffened, his shoulders tightening. “Yeah?” His voice was low, like he was bracing for something. He still didn’t turn to look at you.

You pushed yourself up to sit against the headboard, clutching the sheet to your chest. “Are you okay?”

He let out a short, humorless laugh, his head tilting forward. “Am I okay?” he repeated, more to himself than to you. Finally, he bent down, snatched his shirt from the floor, and began pulling it on. “I should go. I have training.”

“Training doesn’t start for hours,” you said quietly, watching as he avoided your gaze. The way he moved, so deliberately, so carefully, like he was trying to hold himself together—it stung.

He slung his bag over his shoulder and stood, still facing the door. “Yeah, well... I need to clear my head.”

“Pau, wait.” Your voice cracked, and you hated how vulnerable you sounded. But you couldn’t let him walk out like this, like you hadn’t just spent the most intimate night of your life together. “Are we just... not going to talk about this?”

He stopped mid-step, his hand hovering near the doorframe. Slowly, he turned back to you, and the look on his face made your stomach twist. It was a mess of guilt, hesitation, and something deeper—something he was trying so hard to hide.

“What’s there to talk about?” he asked softly. “It was... a mistake.”

The words hung in the air, sharp and cold, and they hit you like a slap. You stared at him, trying to process what he’d just said. “A mistake?” you repeated, your voice barely above a whisper.

He looked away, unable to meet your eyes. “We’re friends,” he said, like he was convincing himself more than you. “We can’t... This can’t happen again.”

Your chest tightened, anger bubbling beneath the hurt. “Right. So that’s it? You’re just going to pretend last night didn’t happen? Pretend I don’t mean anything to you?”

“That’s not what I—” He stopped himself, running a hand through his hair. He looked so torn, so conflicted, and for a brief moment, you saw the truth in his eyes before he looked away again. “This isn’t fair to either of us.”

You laughed bitterly, shaking your head. “What’s not fair is you deciding this for both of us. I was there too, Pau. I know what I felt. And I don’t believe for one second that it didn’t mean anything to you.”

He froze, his jaw clenching. The room was so quiet, you could hear the steady tick of the clock on the wall. Seconds passed, dragging on like hours, and then he finally spoke.

“I’m scared,” he admitted, his voice barely more than a whisper.

You blinked, caught off guard. “Scared of what?”

“Of losing you,” he said, his eyes finally meeting yours. They were filled with so much emotion, it nearly took your breath away. “Of ruining everything we have. If we try this and it doesn’t work... I don’t know how to go back to being just your friend.”

The vulnerability in his voice broke something inside you. For all his confidence on the field, here he was—Pau Cubarsí, standing in your room, looking like he’d just handed you his heart and was waiting for you to crush it.

“And if we don’t try?” you asked, your voice soft but firm. “If you walk out that door and we pretend this never happened... do you really think things will go back to normal?”

He didn’t answer, his silence speaking volumes.

You stood, the sheet falling from your shoulders as you stepped closer to him. “Pau,” you said gently, “you’re not the only one who’s scared. But I’d rather take the chance than spend the rest of my life wondering what we could’ve had.”

His eyes searched yours, desperate and uncertain. For a moment, you thought he might turn and leave anyway, the fear too much for him to bear. But then, slowly, he let his bag drop to the floor. His hands were trembling as he reached for you, his fingers brushing against your cheek.

“I’m in love with you,” he whispered, the words tumbling out like a confession he’d been holding onto for far too long. “I’ve been in love with you for so long, and I didn’t know how to tell you. Last night... It wasn’t a mistake. It could never be a mistake.”

Your breath caught, tears welling in your eyes. “I love you too.”

He let out a shaky laugh, relief washing over his face. And then he was pulling you into his arms, holding you like he never wanted to let go. His lips found yours, and the kiss was everything—soft, tentative, but filled with all the emotion he’d kept bottled up for so long.

When you finally pulled back, you rested your forehead against his, both of you smiling through the tears. “No more running away,” you said, your voice steady.

“No more running,” he promised, his hands still holding you close.

[wardensantoineandevka]

Midst is about a murder the exact same way that Disco Elysium and Pentiment are about a murder.

[daughterofhecata]

.

[einpressens]

Ok ok ok ok ok ok okokokokoklbhghxn jvxhidycungzhfzudutsutxmbcuhiginlbnj *ultrasound scream*

You don't understand how your answer made me feel. Like no words can describe. For me your reply was emotionally equal to meeting Steven King and Jesus in one person at 5 am at convince store, while I wear a custom shirt with Devil smooching it from "it". I very much glad that it happened but how. What the chances. I was literally going around my room in circles throwing around random objects because I couldn't calm down myself. I still can't stop smiling, even tho my face is hurting a little.

I don't even know how to describe it properly. I'm not a writter. It's just like, understand me, I'm very small artist. Like literally all my active followers in all of my social media combined can be counted using one hand. There's two at insta. There's one on twitter. And two mutuals on Tumblr. My art don't do well, and that understandable, I'm not drawing much, don't post often and don't chase trends even if I find them interesting. Just don't have much time right now.

And then a very cropped drawing of my wip that has 2 tags, it even doesn't have "my art" tag that I use to make search for my artworks on this blog easier. I didn't expected it to do better than any other. It's even miracle that it even was posted at all.

I long ago decided to post something at least onece a week. What to post didn't mattered, just something once a week, wip, sketch on napkin. Just post something to kill perfectionist in myself. And I kinda missed a lot of weeks and forgot about it. And then I go to a planer that I didn't Opened for more than a month and it Is time to post something to my socials. And there's yet nothing to post. Lineart was barely finished. So I move to next day. And then on next day I have this. And just post it without much care. Just quickly cropped out 90% of the work post it, and just continue working as if didn't happened at all.

I did such bare minimum for it and then it kinda blows up. It has almost 1000 views on twitter alone which is kinda crazy for me. Even if most of them prob scrolled past it without paying much attentio. They have seen it. And then author themselve noticed it. Noticed the work that was two (ok one, smpard did heavy lifting here ngl) tag away from being untraceable, you prob wouldn't have see it if I just tagged it as just wip like I first planned.

It feels like I'm in some cheese success story movie right now. Just look how my day went from my perspective. I posted my wip in the middle of the night in my timezone 'cuz I have unhealthy habit of monitoring notes for one hour after posting. I wake up and there's 18 notification in my Tumblr. They all but two are from my year old drawing, which is resurfaced a little. "Neat" say I to myself and go to college, don't touch social media the whole day and just reread your fic in a little bit of spare time that I have (which wasn't a lot today). Then came back open Tumblr and I blasted by notes, it's one of my most interacted with drawings of this half of year (which mostly as most number of my notes can be without problem be converted into a binary code which reads as "0"). And better of all I got one reply where in the tags a person was as unhinged about them as me. Of course I reply back cuz I'm overjoyed and then this person is actually author of the work for which I do my fan art. Like I probably should have expected you look for sampard fan art at least a little bit. But to find my artwork. And on Tumblr nonetheless.

Also you probably don't fully understand how much your fic mean to me. It was not only my first ever sampard fic it was the fic that hooked me on this ship. Your work is the reason I currently have 5 sampard wips and another 10 ideas written down. Before this fic I wasn't interested in this ship at all. The only reason I readed it was that I started to get overwhelmed by renheng and decided to read something easy, something I'm not so invested in. And then it consumed me even more that renheng. And now I'm here. Your fic fas so good that it me obsessed sampard shipper. And tbh before reading it I didn't like the ship. I always thought that it was kinda silly because they have 0 interactions in canon, so I thought there's wasn't a lot of chemistry between them and can't be. Well you proved me wrong. How much you proved me wrong. Thanks. Genuinely. I love how you characterize them not only together but individually, how you write intimate moment's between them. I wanna praise your work for hours I love it so much. But I kinda need to sleep right now so. You so so so good. Love your work.

I'm so happy that my silly wip of fan art made you feel the same way as your fic made feel me.

P. S. Sorry for long text and prob broking English in a couple of places it's isn't my native language.

P. P. S. Can you give me the name of your mane Tumblr blog so I could tag you when I post finished art. At first I planned to send you a link to fan art on my twitter into your AO3 dm's (?I don't AO3 much. Is it even have those), and still can if you prefer it.

P. P. P. S. Glad you did like hands position and emotions. It took a lot of time to figure out how to properly position them. Also about clothes, I like drawing genshin of star rail character without their overdesigned nightmare of clothings or simplifyed versions, so your fic descriptions were kinda perfect for me. Also I did a little bit of diversion from your description. I didn't touch Sampo's clothing for the most part. But I decided to make Gep's coat muted blue as blue one of main colors in his design and The scene was supposed to be dark so I need to make him stand out.

P. P. P. S. I wanna read next chapter very strong but I hope that you will take your time. As an artistic that once got burn out so much I couldn't forse myself to do any kind of drawing it's better to take relatively short break then burn out for long period of time. I don't know you and how much you need this advise. I hope you don't need it at all. It's just kinda was on the back of my mind and I decided to write it in p.p.p.p.s.

Colors are hRD but bois are Sotf

[mantisgodsdomain]

We are just now realizing that still being on the short list of kitten fosterers means that we're going to be having to handle weaning five 3-4 week old kittens that need to be fed every few hours while also having university four to six hours a day and honestly, that's not going to be very fun. We'd say "maybe we should have taken on less art challenges this year" but honestly we've been having a great time with the art challenges it's just the 4-6 hours of school that's been rapidly eroding our soul

[heniareth]

It's interesting to note how the Tabris Origin, which involves a wedding, kidnapping and attempted sexual harassment, and fighting your way through an estate full of guards, is the Origin where gender plays a huge role in what story you experience. M!Tabris will always storm the castle coming to the rescue of his cousin and his betrothed, while F!Tabris will always have to fight her way out because the men in her life can't fully protect her (Nelaros dies, Soris literally hands her the sword, Cyrion is powerless to stop the abduction. Okay, this may be a little unfair to Soris who does fight side by side with Tabris and counsels caution the same way regardless of Tabris's gender). I'd go so far as to say that Tabris is the only Origin where the gender of your PC has a definite impact on the story.

TLDR to the rant in the tags: Tabris is constrained on all sides by being an elf, by their gender, in part by their family, and by society at large (both the Alienage and the wider city).