#why would you go through all of that trouble if it doesn't even serve a purpose

[starpros-sunshine]

To be honest I never really understood the "Eichi started the war because he liked Wataru and couldn't be normal about it" thing because like??????????????? What's the war going to do about that?????? What is Eichi getting out of antagonising Wataru and his only friends to the public and almost working himself into an early grave???? How would Eichis relationship with Wataru benefit from holding public executions for half of the eccentrics and turning them into scapegoats and actively declaring his unit as an "enemy" of theirs???? In what world would that be a successful courting ritual I mean I understand Eichi can be extra and Wataru is the definition of the word but genuinely how does that entire train of thought make sense???? Eichi is a lot of things but he's not stupid. The man has the common sense to not do All Of That just for the sake of getting closer to one individual in a way that would never ever work on anyone with some semblance of common sense. The Tomoya Sanctuary incident happened because Eichi was jealous and couldn't be normal aboout it.

And not even to mention how, if the aforementioned was the case, that would also never have worked with Wataru because the reason Wataru was so in on his role was because he knew it was serving a greater purpose. He's not the type to go along with a plan like that simply to satisfy some other guys strange ways of showing his admiration via turning the object of his affections and aforementioneds friends into social outcasts. He's not the type. And neither is Eichi.

That entire train of thought would make absolutely no sense if taken beyond the "haha funny joke" stage

[avcdgrdn]

── .✦ [ FIC ]: can i really stay here? ( ꩜ ᯅ ꩜;) 

mullet stanley pines x innkeeper reader

tags: angst, hurt/comfort, sfw

word count: 1426

˙✧˖° ༘ ⋆｡˚

nothing could have prepared you for the man who walked through the front door of the inn that day.

he looked like death, his chocolate hair tangled, his square jaw riddled with bruises and dirt. heavy eyes fixed themselves upon your figure.

"you got a spare room?"

that voice, gravelly and low, betrayed the exhaustion that plagued this mysterious stranger. you couldn't help but stare for a moment, lost in thought.

"i ... ah, yes, of course. just a room for one?"

your hands swiftly moved to ring him up, pressing a few buttons on the cash register. the man visibly reacted to the metallic sounds of the register, an expression of mild panic settling in.

"yeah ..." he dug through his pockets, patting himself over until he secured a grip on his wallet. pulling it out, he flipped it open, revealing nothing but an ID and a few sticks of gum. he clicked his tongue, defeated. "... this is embarrassing."

it was evident that something wasn't right with him; he looked as if he could collapse at any given moment. should you just deny him service and let him leave? what if he just got himself into deeper trouble? was he even in his right mind?

there was a fleeting moment of awkward silence as the two of you avoided eye contact. you took a sharp breath in.

"... tell me, sir, what's your name?"

his bushy brows rose in surprise. "er ... stan. stan pines." stan gave you a once-over, pulling a sly smirk despite his run-down appearance. "why? ya like what you see?"

a sort of scoffing chuckle left your lips. "this isn't really the time for jokes ..." your eyes trailed down to his stained jacket, torn-up jeans, and over worn shoes. at that, he laughed, which quickly turned into a painful cough. the concern became more evident on your face.

"-ah, you're right, of course. nobody would really want a guy like me, yeah?"

you couldn't bring yourself to respond to that. you could see the storm in his eyes.

turning your back to the counter, you picked up a key that was hanging from the wall, holding it out to him as you met his confused gaze.

"room 34. your stay will be on the house tonight, sir."

"... you're pullin' my leg."

"no, i'm perfectly serious."

hesitantly, he reached out his hand to take the key. your fingers brushed against his rough skin briefly before you pulled your arm back.

stan simply stood there, still processing what had just been given to him. he'd tried this before with numerous other places, and they'd all shut him down. he'd been through ... how many, four, five different states by now? finally, a night where he doesn't have to sleep in his car. the notion of spending a night in an actual bed ... seemed unreal.

"well, i ... damn. th-thanks, toots." he murmured, rubbing the back of his neck with his free hand. a faint shade of pink rose to his cheeks, which he attempted to play off by staring at the ground.

how long had it been since anyone had shown him this kind of generosity?

unsure of what to do, he decided to make his way over to his room, locating the staircase and climbing up, stealing a glance back at you. you watched him ascend the stairs, leaning your arms against the counter.

your mind continued to race. the man looked like he'd just been in a fight. did he have wounds that needed treatment? did he have any place to go? ... of course, those were all personal questions that you knew you shouldn't ask about. he is only a customer ... at least you could offer him somewhere to crash for the night.

it had been two hours.

two hours, and yet, you still couldn't get him off your mind.

you figured you might be able to offer him some dinner.

or was that just you trying to come up with an excuse to see him again? you didn't think about it too hard.

making your way over to the kitchen, you had the chef prep a single serving of food, laying it out on a tray which you picked up and began to walk with. the carpeted floor softened the sound of your footsteps.

arriving at the end of the hall, you stood in front of the door labeled "34", hesitating. you steeled your nerves and knocked gently on its wooden surface.

a few moments passed. you could hear the sound of rustling fabric and footsteps as stan made his way over to the door, opening it and observing his visitor. he was dressed in a bathrobe, his hair damp and his face looking much cleaner than before.

"sorry if i came at a bad time. i just figured you might want a bite to eat." you averted your eyes by glancing to the tray of food you held, a faint blush rising to your face.

twinkling lights began to glisten in place of the dark storm you'd seen in him before. his expression softened in disbelief, and he opened his mouth to speak, but no words came out.

eventually, he spoke.

"why are you doing this?"

"... what do you mean?"

"i mean, you're wastin' your good food 'nd room. you deserve your money-"

he cut himself off, swallowing back a bitter feeling in his throat.

"-i ... i need to ... pay it back."

oh. is he ... crying?

you could feel your heart wrench in your chest. "s-stan. it's okay."

he furiously blinked back tears, taking a deep breath and putting on a weary grin. "will ya keep that food hot for me? i'm just gonna get dressed. i think i'll eat it downstairs."

"oh, of course."

"thanks a bunch." he winked at you, then shut the door, leaving you to stare at the room label again. you blinked, then turned around to head back down.

after some time of waiting in the kitchen, you caught the sight of him descending the staircase and walking over to you. he was wearing a different shirt, although his jacket and jeans were the same. his hair was dry and much poofier now that it was clean. you caught yourself staring at his mullet.

"didja wait for too long?" stan pulled out a stool from the bar, taking a seat and watching as you put his plate of food in front of him.

"nah, you're okay." you offered a small smile. "feel free to dig in."

and boy, did he dig in. this man hasn't had a proper meal in forever. his daily diet has consisted of strictly rationed cheap snacks and the occasional stolen burger and fries. you swore you've never seen a guy so happy to eat something before in your life. somehow, watching him was making you feel warm inside.

"this ... is the best food i ever tasted." stan mumbled, looking up at you in between bites. all sorts of different emotions were raging inside of him, and the feeling of being properly nourished was bringing them up to the surface. his brown eyes began to overflow with tears, and he cursed underneath his breath, eating more aggressively to try and distract himself.

"uh, stan? are you alright?"

that was the last straw. his brows knit together and he swallowed his food, dropping his fork onto the plate. the tears were flowing freely now.

"no. dammit, i'm not alright."

stan covered his face with one arm, his broad frame trembling as he choked back bitter sobs.

"it's just that ... m-my parents, and i ... s-see- and my brother-"

he hunched over, shifting to cover his face with both hands. everything was crashing down.

"oh, God, my brother ..."

you walked out from behind the bar, making your way over to where he sat and taking the seat next to him. you didn't really think at all, you just slid your arm around his back and-

the instant he felt your touch, stanley clung onto you desperately.

onto somebody who was showing him hospitality. onto somebody who cared enough to worry about his health. onto somebody unlike anybody else he'd met these past few years.

burying his face into your shoulder, he pulled you closer against him.

"'m sorry ... don't leave me alone."

the wetness of his tears soaked into your shirt, but you didn't mind. here in your arms was a little boy who just needed a hug.

you barely knew each other, but you had a feeling that was going to change.

"don't worry, i'm not going anywhere."

end

[ part two ]

[kbbueckers]

house party

characters: caitlin clark x reader

overview: caitlin punches your homophobic and toxic ex boyfriend, tiny bit of fluff at the end

warnings: tiny bit of angst, tiny bit of blood, violence, homophobia from ex

caitlin has been your girlfriend for about two or three years, you and caitlin were at a house party because you begged her to go with you for weeks, and she finally agreed. turns out the begging wasn't even worth it, you weren't having fun. the music was bad, there was no food, and your ex was here. 

"i'm gonna go get a drink, kk?" you laid her down on the couch as she whispered something you didn't really hear. as you were refilling your cup, the one person you've been trying your best all night to avoid came up to you. 

jay was your boyfriend back before you even knew you were a lesbian. once you realized, you broke up with him because "the spark was gone." atleast that's how you worded it. he really never got over it, and still tries to hit on you every now and then. 

"you've been avoiding me, haven't you?" he asked, leaning against the door frame. you at first thought to not even reply, but you knew that would only make the situation worst. "if you know someone's avoiding you, why come up to them?" you went to walk away before he grabbed your arm, convincing you to stay.

"i've missed you." he attempted to touch your hair before you slapped his hand away. without your knowledge, caitlin had followed you through the crowd and saw the whole interaction with him.

caitlin was extremely overprotective, she has always made attachments to people easily, especially you. ever since you started dating, caitlin wouldn't let you out of her sight. either following you everywhere like a little puppy dog, or dragging you everywhere she went, you thought it was cute. 

"is he bothering you?" she asked. coming up behind you, and grabbing you waist to pull you back from him. caitlin knew your history with him. you always used to tell her whether you found out you were gay or not you still would've eventually ended things with him.

he treated you horribly the whole relationship. when you used to live with him in his apartment, anytime he got the slightest bit of angry, even if it wasn't your fault, he would kick you out. there were many nights where you had to knock on friends doors asking can you stay the night.

caitlin was one of those friends. you would cry to her many nights about how you couldn't do this anymore, and how bad he would make you feel. she always thought you deserved better, and now you had better.

you shake your head no. saving jay the trouble, knowing she could, and would, beat his ass. "this is none of your business." he starts to get defensive with caitlin, deciding to start trouble even though she's about a foot taller than him. 

"i'm her girlfriend, and it seems like you're bothering her, so it is my business." caitlin starts to get louder, and all up in his face. not sure if it was the alcohol or what, but she was ready to fight.

"oh so you're kissing girls now?" he turned to you in surprise. "that's none of your business." you replied. "man just leave her alone, she clearly doesn't wanna speak to you." caitlin brushed him off, turning around back to me as we both started to walk away. before we were able to walk away fully, jay muttered something.

"whatever, fuckin' homos"

what. the. hell. 

you and caitlin both stopped in your tracks, before you could even turn around to stop caitlin from doing whatever she was about to do, she turned around quick, serving a punch to jay's nose. he made a loud sound on the ground from falling, taking a few chairs with him, and the whole keg of beer, causing everyone to turn around in shock.

"come on baby, let's go." caitlin tugged your arm a few times before pointing to the door, turning around like she didn't just punch your ex boyfriend in the nose.

you nodded as you turned around to see jay's friends helping him up off the ground, his nose bleeding bad, and a puddle of beer forming around him. everyone around us was staring at caitlin, muttering and whispering, but she didn't care as we walked out of the house and into the cold. caitlin's arm around your shoulders, holding you tighter than when you first walked in.

caitlin was driving home in silence with her hand resting on your thigh, you couldn't help but notice the small red spots on her knuckles.

"are your hands okay?" she shook her head. "i'm good baby, thanks."

even though caitlin told you her hand was fine, once you got home you insisted on putting some ice on it and wrapping it. you were sitting on her lap and holding her fingers while dabbing the ice on them lightly.

"i'm sorry for punching him." she spoke up. you shook your head. "no, no. i wanna thank you. he definitely won't mess with me anymore." caitlin nodded. "why didn't you tell me he was bothering you?" caitlin wrapped her arms around your waist as she pulled you closer. you shrugged your shoulders in response "i didn't want this to happen." 

once you were finished wrapping her fingers, caitlin got both you and her ready for bed before you cuddled up against each other,  resting from the long night you just had. 

this kinda sucks but i've been working on it all afternoon and im tired, really hope you enjoy.

tips on how to improve my writing are greatly appreciated

-kbbueckers💋

[helluvathings]

It's interesting that the episode description straight up warned for Stolas lacking self-awareness. It's more or less a confirmation that Stolas and his character arc aren't finished, and between that and the content of the last couple episodes, I ended up going back through the series and looking at the path he's taken so far. Warning now, there's a lot of 'deconstructing' Stolas at first, but I do think he's on a positive trajectory and the set up serves as foundation for future character development.

Anyway for anyone interested in a from-the-beginning rundown of Stolas's arc, full post is below.

From his first conversation with Blitzø, you have Stolas in his bath making the favors for favors offer, while Blitzø is working and in a life-or-death situation. The language Stolas is using is too formal; it causes communication issues, and Blitzø has to tell him to stop using "rich person talk." The scene that sets up their whole dynamic is 1. Stolas establishing the transaction (given he could've straight up punished Blitzø for stealing or just taken back the book, this isn't bad; it just is), 2. Stolas at leisure while Blitzø's job has him in danger, and 3. the class/education difference resulting in Blitzø having difficulty understanding what Stolas is saying.

Move forward to Loo Loo Land. The language Stolas uses with Blitzø gets a lot of attention already, as does Stolas's rather poor grasp of social cues/difficulty seeing outside his own perspective causing him to clash with Octavia. One point I don't see raised as often is that Stolas hiring Blitzø to spend time together, when he doesn't need a bodyguard, and then sexualizing Blitzø while he does his job, is both condescending, and doesn't show much respect for what Blitzø actually does. He pays him more or less to put on a show, so Stolas can indulge a fantasy of them having a relationship (not because he's evil, because he doesn't know better).

Then you've got Stolas in the newest episode, getting annoyed with Blitzø for saying he thought Stolas couldn't be hurt because he was immortal. That if I.M.P. could handle Striker, Stolas surely could. Stolas's sarcastic, "It's not an imp's place to protect a Goetia, is it?" comes across different when considering Stolas literally once hired them as mock bodyguards. It just... escapes him, why Blitzø would think the idea of Stolas needing their help is outrageous. Never mind how clear Stolas's rescue in Truthseekers made their power disparity. Stolas often has trouble putting himself in other people's shoes, and it shows here.

The Harvest Moon Festival brings in Striker, who's basically a "class problems" mouthpiece, exaggerated for emphasis. He even remarks directly on how Stolas's treatment of Blitzø can look from the outside. There's also the episode's opening bedroom scene, where Stolas's idea of flirty talk is copious use of microaggressions, plus the later scene with Blitzø snapping about Stolas not using his proper name. It's likely not an accident that these things happen the same episode Striker appears.

Truthseekers has "impish little plaything," with honorable mention to Stolas pinching Blitzø's cheek and scolding I.M.P. like children. But it also has Blitzø's vision all but screaming how Stolas makes him feel. On the one hand, it's Stolas who brings him back to himself. He washes away the muck. He's something beautiful amidst the ugliness. But he's on a pedestal, he has Blitzø in chains. He has shadow Blitzøs fanning him like servants, and Blitzø stumbles away from him blind and mute, smothered by feathers.

Ozzie's is actually good for Stolas's development, because he gets his first reality check when Blitzø makes it clear he thinks Stolas only wants sex. (It also shows how Stolas feels about Blitzø behind the bad erotic-novel scripts he's been using, which is the first time the audience sees this outright). After that, Stolas realizes his relationship with Blitzø was problematic. He sees the transaction and gets rid of it, and he senses something off with his behavior that has him start calling Blitzø by name and stopping with the 'plaything' type remarks.

But the past two episodes have made it evident he'd made those realizations in a vacuum. His broader class awareness is basically nonexistent, and when Blitzø tries raising the issue, he groups Blitzø with Striker by default, as if any criticism of his status/wealth/privilege is unreliable and antagonistic toward him specifically. He refuses to sincerely consider that Blitzø isn't merely judging him, and that he might be saying something with legitimate basis.

The Circus is especially interesting. Aside from the commentary underlying the 'buying Blitzø' plot, the episode shows Stolas getting scolded by Paimon like a dog for showing respect to an imp; that likely wouldn't have been an isolated incident. It's played somewhat for humor ("I'm so good at daddying"), but it also shows why he'd have so much trouble with things like microaggressions. He has literally been trained to hold himself above others. And just going off the way Stolas is framed at Stella's party, isolated and alone, being laughed at by Stella and her friends, I suspect Stolas may see himself as a "good rich person," because he doesn't seem to fit well with the Goetia either; he's laughed at and bullied, he lacks privilege in his own ways. He identifies more with other demons than his own class--and it blinds him, I think, to the fact that he is still part of his class, and isn't immune to the problems that come with that.

Even in Seeing Stars, there's the moment with Stolas all but strangling that poor butler and hardly seeming to notice. In an episode that's almost entirely focused on father-daughter relationships, that still gets tossed in. Regarding the Octavia plot, Stolas lacking self-awareness comes up again; it's understandable that he's distracted with the divorce, and we do see him try to resolve the issue, but it feels like a quiet alarm indicating hey, you might have a recurring problem where your daughter is concerned.

Western Energy is another 'Striker shouting that class issues matter in this show' moment. While I think Stolas going the 'well, you're part of the system, so you can't complain' route when Striker tries bringing it up is loosely relevant, I also don't blame him for that one. Poor guy is being tortured, he deserves some slack. Oops, in my opinion, shows Stolas at his best; he's just been turned down by Ozzie, but he still sticks around and helps. We even see how sincerely happy he is when Fizz returns. It's a good example of how decent Stolas can be beneath it all, as well as his sense of romance appearing in a healthier way.

Then come Full Moon and Apology Tour, where most of the Stolas subtext gets screamed and/or bitterly snapped in his face by Blitzø. It's stated directly by the main character that those things matter, in a way that imo portrays Blitzø as at least partially sympathetic. And of course the Apology Tour episode description, yelling it for the folks in back.

What all this is trying to say is: 90% of Stolas's time on screen has set him up to have a 'getting more self aware' arc. I see a lot of accusations of the show babying Stolas, but I think it's more that it hasn't gotten around to doing what it wants with Stolas. There are 4 seasons. We're in the second. We've had Stolas's post-Ozzie's revelation, and now he's getting a lot more "you're part of the problem" feedback thrown his way. It's implied Octavia is going to contribute to that as well.

Anyway!! My personal guess so far is that if the "loses his powers and/or titles" theory that's been going around has any merit, that's going to instigate the start of actual, substantial change. Will that actually happen? No idea. But Stolas's flaws have been as articulated and developed as Blitzø's, and at this point, if the consequences aren't explored in the same way, it'll be dropping a ball that's already well in the air. I also think this isn't going to be a "fixed by the end of season 2" thing. Stolas problably won't appear again until Mastermind, and then there's just Sinsmas. There isn't time for him to change in two episodes. There is, however, time for him to have some big realizations, and for the change to happen next season.

[ghostiequill]

Sanji x anxious eater reader

No, shut up this is not me projecting (but i know he'd be so sweet about it)

You have a troubled relationship with eating your whole life

No one was the pinpoint cause of it, but seeing all the other people with their ripped abs and perfect hourglass figures caused hesitation everytime you decided to indulge yourself in food

With your sweet tooth, it was even more difficult. Everything delectable delight you would indulge yourself in, you felt a tsunami of guilt afterwards staring at the empty wrapper, devastated at your lack of control

When you decided to join the Straw Hats, you were shocked to see how forward the cook was, despite how you felt about your figure. He would constantly gush over you, how well you fought, bending to your will and would lather you in constant compliments 

The problems came when he tried to spoil you with his cooking, he would go out of his way to serve you first, despite the various teasing protests by the rest of the crew . Every bite was sinful in every sense of the word, the flavors dancing on your tongue as you swallowed both it and the anxious feelings threatening to bubble up. You could feel your stomach rebelling against the contents as you excused yourself early from dinner, not the first time

Unknownst to you, Sanji was hyper aware of your presence on board. He would notice every time you would leave the table early and the smaller portions you would give yourself compared to every else’s, your furrowed brow and anxious looks when he would cook something more decadent for you

He finds you alone one night after he finishes tidying his kitchen and kicking out Luffy for attempting to steal leftovers. He walks up to you gently laying a hand on your shoulder to try not to spook you.

“Hey, are you ok?” He asked

You forced a smile, “Yeah, why wouldn't I be?”

“If there's anything you want to talk about, you can come to me. We’re a crew, we can confide in each other, you know that right?” Sanji’s eyes are full of concern as he squeezes your shoulder 

“Of course, I know that. You've always been so sweet to me, I really feel like we’re a family here” You claim

“I've just noticed you seem really anxious around food, anything I can do to alleviate that pain for you I will do in an instant” Sanji says, his voice eager to please and full of care 

“…It's just been really hard sometimes. I can't help but feel every calorie that passes my lips and I feel like I haven't done enough to earn it”your eyes looking anywhere but his as you force out the confession

Sanji looks taken aback, grabbing your shoulder and gently making you face him.  “You don't have to earn food. You need calories to do things you love. Your body deserves to be nourished and cared for. You don't earn the right to eat. Every meal is an opportunity for self care. There's no conditions to self love. Food is a vital source of life and love that we shouldn’t take for granted. It is my sworn duty as your friend to help protect you from any enemy, including yourself. If you’ll allow me, I can do my best to help” 

Your eyes are full of tears as you finally break down, head in your hands as you start crying. Sanji doesn't say anything else as he rubs your back

The next day for breakfast, he prepares for you an easier meal of eggs and sausage, healthy but still getting in vital calories. It’s like that for every meal, just for you. He would gently introduce richer ingredients in your meals, easing you in with words of affirmation, small touches and toothy smiles

You couldn't help but feel the love prepared with every meal prepared specifically for you and witness Sanji’s affection and see his smile with every bite. 

The following days were filled with nothing but affection, tender gestures, and thoughtful culinary choices. Through his actions, he conveyed a deep love of your body and soul, easing you into a life of indulgence.

[atopvisenyashill]

that bit about joffrey is FASCINATING have you ever written about this in depth? I've always loved his character but I would never be able to like. Describe why exactly he is the way he is so I really appreciate your analysis of him loving BOTH parents and incorporating only their flaws - I always just assumed that he hates his dad and is annoyed by cersei (still loves her) but then the way we sexually humiliates and abuses sansa etc is so robert-coded like of course he emulates the bevavior of his father.

Also slightly off topic but i always forget that Joffrey is like canonically so good at all the proper princely things (thinking of that scene at Sansa and Tyrion's wedding when she's so upset that a monster like Joff could be so good at dancing) and - not to go on about GOT again - but I wish we had actually gotten to see that and him being charming etc. Huge props to the show for giving Joff the perfect wardrobe (the only thing they did right) but also f them for waiting all that potential

yes, they really said joff gets to have all the swag and then the moment he died they put cersei in that fuck ass bob and no one in the lannisters was allowed to serve again smh. and thank youuu i actually had to stop myself from rambling over him before haha, but i'll go into more detail here! so this was the comment from the other post-

joffrey is a kid just ruled by his first, most base instinct. his instincts, his core emotions, tell him to love and trust both robert and cersei, and imo he twists himself into a MONSTER to try to appeal to both of them. no one else matters - not his siblings, not his uncle, not his grandfather, not the realm. he needs to be the sort of vicious person they could both be proud of, he needs to be better than them both at violence, so he absorbs all of their faults and none of their virtues.

i definitely do see very often that people feel he only loves one or the other parent and while I do understand that reading, I don't think it's quite how Joffrey operates. I think he does love them both, and holds them both in high esteem. I do agree that he's annoyed by Cersei but that doesn't mean he doesn't value her opinion (as much as Joffrey puts value on anyone else's opinion, I mean).

Joffrey and Cersei

Joffrey relies on his mother more than almost any other male character we see in the series. We see him call for Cersei basically every time he's hurt, in trouble, or wanting to whine about something. Not only that, but you have everyone from Robert to Renly to Tywin himself saying that Joffrey is doted upon and inseparable from his mother. A few choice quotes:

"Fear is better than love, Mother says." Joffrey pointed at Sansa. "She fears me."

He takes Cersei's lessons to heart, however flawed they are. Her opinion matters to him, he wants her to see him as strong.

Nine cases out of ten seemed to bore him; those he allowed his council to handle, squirming restlessly while Lord Baelish, Grand Maester Pycelle, or Queen Cersei resolved the matter. When he did choose to make a ruling, though, not even his queen mother could sway him.

It's Cersei he listens to the most. We know that if a little King, even with his mother as Regent, doesn't want to deal with her, he can simply ignore her - that's what Jaehaerys does with Alyssa, after all. But Joffrey doesn't do this; he'll fight with her, he'll insult her, and he's not shy about doing it in public but he never disregards her out of hand.

Joffrey lurched to his feet. "I'm king! Kill him! Kill him now! I command it." He chopped down with his hand, a furious, angry gesture . . . and screeched in pain when his arm brushed against one of the sharp metal fangs that surrounded him. The bright crimson samite of his sleeve turned a darker shade of red as his blood soaked through it. "Mother!" he wailed.

His instinct, every time, is to turn to her for help. He loves her. He adores her. She's the only person around who tells him he's strong and smart and will be a good king. He leans on her for guidance, for comfort, he talks to her about fucking whores. He shares everything with her because he doesn't have a single friend. She models anger and violence for him constantly, she excuses his disturbing proclivities, so he molds himself to be the person she wants him to be, the king she wants him to be. People - including Tyrion and Tywin! - are always wondering why Cersei is blind to his cruelty, but the reality is she knew he was cruel and loved him for it.

Tommen did as he was bid. His meekness troubled her. A king had to be strong. Joffrey would have argued. He was never easy to cow.

For Cersei, cruelty is strength and in her eyes, Joffrey is as strong as they come. This isn't by accident; just like his constant cries for her are reinforced by her rushing to coddle him, his cruelty is reinforced by a mother who sees it as strength. It's almost like what Coldhands says to Bran - Joffrey is a monster, yes, but in Cersei's eyes, Joffrey is her monster.

Joffrey and Robert

Joffrey had never had a close friend of his own age, that she recalled. The poor boy was always alone. I had Jaime when I was a child . . . and Melara, until she fell into the well. Joff had been fond of the Hound, to be sure, but that was not friendship. He was looking for the father he never found in Robert.

From Cersei's point of view, I think she knows very well that Joffrey is searching for love, acceptance, and himself in Robert. She doesn't like it, but she seems to accept that it's natural for Joffrey to search for some sort of father figure, and doesn't seem to begrudge him that - imo, I think because she knows Robert is always going to reject Joffrey for his cruelty.

“Why would he [care]? Robert ignored him. He would have beat him if I’d allowed it. That brute you made me marry once hit the boy so hard he knocked out two of his baby teeth, over some mischief with a cat. I told him I’d kill him in his sleep if he ever did it again, and he never did, but sometimes he would say things…”

Whenever they interact, the few times they do, there's violence. People always take this as Cersei not allowing Robert to "teach" or "properly discipline" Joffrey but, well...does the above seem like helpful discipline? Knocking out your child because he freaked you out? Punishing extreme violence with more extreme violence? And it's not just Cersei that this moment sticks with, because Stannis brings it up as well-

"Joffrey . . . I remember once, this kitchen cat . . . the cooks were wont to feed her scraps and fish heads. One told the boy that she had kittens in her belly, thinking he might want one. Joffrey opened up the poor thing with a dagger to see if it were true. When he found the kittens, he brought them to show to his father. Robert hit the boy so hard I thought he'd killed him."

Since Cersei says Robert would "say things" and we see him threatening Cersei (the "or I'll honor you again" line), I don't think it's a stretch to say that Robert threatened to beat Joffrey nearly to death several times over.

And yet...Joffrey compliments his father, especially in comparison to his other relatives.

He wrenched free of her. "Why should I? Everyone knows it's true. My father won all the battles. He killed Prince Rhaegar and took the crown, while your father was hiding under Casterly Rock." The boy gave his grandfather a defiant look. "A strong king acts boldly, he doesn't just talk."

And Cersei believes this came from Robert-

"Father, I am sorry," Cersei said, when the door was shut. "Joff has always been willful, I did warn you . . ." "There is a long league's worth of difference between willful and stupid. 'A strong king acts boldly?' Who told him that?" "Not me, I promise you," said Cersei. "Most like it was something he heard Robert say . . ."

And of course, Jaime is the one who pieces together why Joffrey sent the catspaw-

“Yes, I hoped the boy would die. So did you. Even Robert thought that would have been for the best. ‘We kill our horses when they break a leg, and our dogs when they go blind, but we are too weak to give the same mercy to crippled children’ he told me. He was blind himself at the time, from drink.” Robert? Jaime had guarded the king long enough to know that Robert Baratheon said things in his cups that he would have denied angrily the next day. “Were you alone when Robert said this?” “You don’t think he said it to Ned Stark, I hope? Of course we were alone. Us and the children.” Cersei removed her hairnet and draped it over a bedpost, then shook out her golden curls. “Perhaps Myrcella sent this man with the dagger, do you think so?” It was meant as mockery, but she’d cut right to the heart of it, Jaime saw at once. “Not Myrcella. Joffrey.” Cersei frowned. “Joffrey had no love for Robb Stark, but the younger boy was nothing to him. He was only a child himself .” “A child hungry for a pat on the head from that sot you let him believe was his father.”

When you put it all together, you have a child who is ignored by his father unless he's being threatened with a beating, who is constantly calling him a monster, who watches his father harm and humiliate his mother day in and day out, who has no other paternal figure around but this violent, angry man who he is supposed to model himself off of, and a mother who encourages his cruelty because she believes it's the only way to protect herself, to protect her son. He's not just emulating his mother's cruelty, he's emulating Robert's violence specifically when he humilates Sansa at court, when he openly talks shit about Cersei - it's what he's seen modeled for him as kingly behavior!

The Abuse And Jaime Of It All

King Joffrey's face hardened. "My mother tells me that it isn't fitting that a king should strike his wife. Ser Meryn."

He knows Robert is abusing Cersei and he takes her dislike of it seriously even as he doesn't make the connection that she means he shouldn't be striking his wife period. Whether it's because Cersei directly told him (which could make sense; she's purposefully hiding it from Jaime but perhaps she confided in Joffrey) or because he witnessed it himself, he's aware of the abuse enough that he takes his mother's comments about not personally striking Sansa to heart.

"No," [Robert] thundered in a voice that drowned out all other speech. Sansa was shocked to see the king on his feet, red of face, reeling. He had a goblet of wine in one hand, and he was drunk as a man could be. "You do not tell me what to do, woman," he screamed at Queen Cersei. "I am king here, do you understand? I rule here, and if I say that I will fight tomorrow, I will fight!" Everyone was staring. Sansa saw Ser Barristan, and the king's brother Renly, and the short man who had talked to her so oddly and touched her hair, but no one made a move to interfere. The queen's face was a mask, so bloodless that it might have been sculpted from snow. She rose from the table, gathered her skirts around her, and stormed off in silence, servants trailing behind. Jaime Lannister put a hand on the king's shoulder, but the king shoved him away hard. Lannister stumbled and fell. The king guffawed. "The great knight. I can still knock you in the dirt. Remember that, Kingslayer." He slapped his chest with the jeweled goblet, splashing wine all over his satin tunic. "Give me my hammer and not a man in the realm can stand before me!" Jaime Lannister rose and brushed himself off. "As you say, Your Grace." His voice was stiff. Lord Renly came forward, smiling. "You've spilled your wine, Robert. Let me bring you a fresh goblet." Sansa started as Joffrey laid his hand on her arm. "It grows late," the prince said. He had a queer look on his face, as if he were not seeing her at all. "Do you need an escort back to the castle?"

I think it's pretty clear that Joffrey is dissociating here which also explains his very detached way of looking at Robert's abuse of Cersei. It freaks him out enough that he uses Sansa as an excuse to leave (giving her the Hound, then running off himself) but he doesn't show it. He's not even particularly upset during this scene, not throwing a tantrum or making whiny remarks like he does when he's usually upset. He only has a "queer look" - the stress of trying to reconcile his adoration of Robert and his love of Cersei just makes him fully shut down instead of confronting it.

Joffrey gave a petulant shrug. "Your brother defeated my uncle Jaime. My mother says it was treachery and deceit. She wept when she heard. Women are all weak, even her, though she pretends she isn't. She says we need to stay in King's Landing in case my other uncles attack, but I don't care. After my name day feast, I'm going to raise a host and kill your brother myself. That's what I'll give you, Lady Sansa. Your brother's head."

I think people often take his comments about how women are weak to mean he doesn't view his mother as a competent advisor. But you notice a pattern here - he gets shitty with her when it's about Jaime specifically.

"A great many people are sorry for that," Tyrion replied, "and before I am done, some may be a deal sorrier . . . yet I thank you for the sentiment. Joffrey, where might I find your mother?" "She's with my council," the king answered. "Your brother Jaime keeps losing battles."

"She's with my council" he says, because he sees no reason to not let Cersei run things without him, something Robert never lets her do. But "your brother Jaime" not "my uncle Jaime" which is a shift because he doesn't stop calling Renly or Stannis his uncles even after they rebel. He knows, he suspects, and what he resents is not Cersei fucking Jaime but Jaime fucking Cersei.

My read on this is that Joffrey sees his mother as weak for allowing herself to be seduced by Jaime, and sees Jaime as a lecherous seducer who is the cause of all his problems. If only Jaime hadn't seduced his mother, maybe his parents wouldn't hate each other. His claim wouldn't be under question. His mother should have just taken the abuse and bided her time instead of putting herself in danger and having bastards.

He loves his mother. He loves his father. And that's the human heart in conflict with itself that resides in Joffrey. Does he honor his mother, the only parent he has, or does he honor Robert, the patriarch he is supposed to emulate? If he has no other example of what strength looks like, is he even capable of figuring out a different path for himself?

[mj-iza-writer]

Whumper glanced down some of the aisles Whumpee normally gravitated towards.

"You better not be in the toys", Whumper whispered to themself as they peaked down one more aisle.

Whumpee gave an uh-oh look the moment they locked eyes with Whumper.

"No", Whumper scolded.

"Please", Whumpee held something up, "it's so cute."

"You don't need anything else", Whumper frowned, "especially not a toy."

"But, but, but", Whumpee sputtered as they looked at Whumper longingly.

"No buts, that will not serve you any purpose", Whumper looked around to see if anyone was watching, "I'll let you pick two snacks out if you drop this silliness, and put the toy away."

Whumpee looked at the toy, then at Whumper.

"Why do you even want that one?", Whumper eyed them, "out of everything here you want that."

Whumpee nodded and gave puppy dog eyes.

"No, you don't get to act cute right now", Whumper scolded in a whisper, "we are in public, you don't get - you don't get to do that."

Whumpee let out a low whine and puffed out their lip.

"Whumpee", Whumper sighed in a low grumble.

"I'll get down and crawl if you'd like me to", Whumpee smirked, "I know you'll melt if I bump my head into your leg."

"You are so unfair", Whumper frowned.

Whumpee started to get down.

"No, no don't do that", Whumper hurried, "fine, you know what, fine. You can get it, but you better put on that charm later at home."

"Deal", Whumpee smirked.

"Did you mention snacks", Whumpee walked to the cart.

"No, no. You're pushing your luck now", Whumper started to go farther into the aisle, "you get your normal treats, and that's all."

"Okay", Whumpee giggled, "worth a shot."

Later Whumpee happily played with the toy while they waited for Whumper.

"Okay you", Whumper came in, "time for you to hold up your part of the deal. Come here."

Whumpee gently placed their new toy on the couch, then crawled to Whumper.

"I'm not exactly happy with you and being blackmailed like that", Whumper frowned, "you know better than to use the public eye against me. You also know that a pet doesn't ask for things. They wait until their master says they can get something."

Whumpee cowarded back, fully frightened by Whumper, "I'm sorry Master, please forgive me. I thought maybe..."

"Maybe you'd get away with it", Whumper sat down in front of the kneeling Whumpee.

"No Master", Whumpee gave a startled glance, "just that I could get-a-toy", Whumpee started to whisper in fear.

"Why would you get a toy?", Whumper frowned, "what special occasion would allow that?"

Whumpee fidgetted with their shirt shyly.

"Answer me pet", Whumper spoke through gritted teeth.

"My gotcha day.... Master", Whumpee whispered as they kept their eyes on the floor.

"Gotcha day?", Whumper leaned back, "it's not", they pulled out their phone, "it's not your gotcha da...y....oh!"

Whumpee bowed their head to the carpet, but then nudged into Whumper's shoe.

"I'm sorry Master", Whumpee whispered, "please train me and punish me accordingly. I want to be good for you.... show me how, please."

"Whumpee why didn't you remind me?", Whumper frowned, "I totally forgot."

"I thought you remembered, and was messing with me Master", Whumpee kept their head on Whumper's shoe, to scared to look up, "I wasn't trying to blackmail you Master, I thought you were playing a game."

"Whumpee", Whumper sighed sadly, "no I wasn't even paying attention to the date. I am so sorry."

"I'm sorry Master", Whumpee whispered.

"No I'm sorry", Whumper reached down and pulled Whumpee up, and had them fall into their lap to pet their head, "that was very mean of me to hurt you like that. I was not paying attention at all."

Whumpee leaned into the touch, "am I... still in trouble, mmm" Whumpee closed their eyes, "Master please keep scratching my head just a few more minutes before you punish me."

"You're not in trouble", Whumper continued to scratch Whumpee's head, "I only wish you had said something at the store to remind me."

"There were too many witnesses... nearby", Whumpee leaned into the touch more, "hmmmm", they moaned.

"Well I guess I need to make it up to you tomorrow", Whumper chuckled as Whumpee seemed to relax, "your gotcha day is supposed to be special, not filled with fear and pleading."

"Master you don't have to. The toy is enough", Whumpee looked up slowly, "and the head scritches."

"No, like I said, it needs to be special", Whumper stood, "we'll start now, then celebrate into tomorrow."

"Really master", Whumpee looked up excitedly, "you mean it."

"I do", Whumper smiled, "how about we order some food from your favorite restaurant. I have some ice cream. We can watch a movie. Tomorrow we can get you a cake, pick out a few treats to enjoy at the candy store, and you can pick out a few more presents. How about we look for a new blanket and something to wear. Yes, we can also look at toys."

Whumpee shook excitedly, "thankyou, thankyou, thankyou", they rested their head on Whumper's lap, "I'm so excited."

"You're welcome Whumpee. Like I said your gotcha day is a big deal, and needs to be celebrated", Whumper patted their head again, "thankyou for being such a good pet."

Whumpee smiled up at Whumper.

"Alright go get comfortable, your day is starting now", Whumper went to grab their phone, "I'll order in the food."

"Okay", Whumpee scampered off.

"My silly pet", Whumper sighed to themself.

Taglist. As always please let me know if you want to be added or taken off of the list. It's not a problem at all.

@villainsandheroes @the-beasts-have-arrived

@sacredwrath @porschethemermaid

@monarchthefirst @generic-whumperz

@bloodyandfrightened @freefallingup13

@notpeppermint @cyborg0109

@idontreallyexistyet @painfulplots

@whumpbump @everythingsscary

@skittles-the-whumpee @expressionless-fr

@theforeverdyingperson @legendarydelusiongoatee

@candleshopmenace @whumpanthems

@lavndvrr @ivymyers

@starfields08000 @a-living-canvas

@lumpofsand @watermeezer

@indigoviolet311 @whumpy-mountains

@3-2-whump @risk606

@electrons2006 @paperprinxe

@whumprince @kaz-of-crows

@mis-graves @decaffeinatedtimetraveler94

@sausages-things @sunglasses-in-the-bentley

@isikedmyself878

[asiuapng]

The Heart Wants What It Doesn't Have - Stanley Pines and His Undeniable Want for People to Want Him Back

Stan's strength doesn't lie in the streets. We have a whole decade of him not catching a break, getting banned by majority of the states, and even served time more than once. No, I believe his strength is his innate interest in people.

In their childhood, Crampelter told Stan that if it weren't for the company of his brother, he'll be alone. In that instance, we immediately saw that that is his true fear. He loves people but they don't seem to love him back, so he clings on to the person he knows who does: Ford. The idea of together forever brought comfort to him. It didn't matter if he fails, so long as he is standing with someone, then he never failed to begin with.

I'd like to think that his parents knew about this. And I'd like to think that that was Filbrick's main motivation to kick him out. You saw how Stan's tough love was a direct copy from his father, and that no matter what he's been through, he can't bring himself to completely hate the man who worked so hard to provide for his family. Again, Stan loves people—he wants them around. But Filbrick had other ideas. He knew his sons love each other, believed that Ford will get over it, and knew that Stan knew that too. But that would mean he wouldn't face the consequence, and Filbrick didn't want that. He wanted Stan to actually learn from his mistakes, and that those mistakes, no matter how much of an accident it was, will always have consequences. The world is cruel, and it's the father's job to make his children be above it.

What Filbrick did made Stan's fear into a reality. Believing that will toughen him up, believing that he'll rise up, believing that he'll finally become a man. But he doesn't know his son. He didn't know that what he's done was the complete ruin of Stan. That he was the nightmare Filbrick also had trouble sleeping when he was a kid.

I believe Filbrick never hated his son, just frustrated. Caryn knows that. Why would he never wiped of '#1 Dad'? That pride and ultimate shame of being his father, no wonder he didn't attend his youngest son's funeral.

Anyway, back to Stan. After getting kicked out, he tried to put a brave face. He may be Caryn's son, but the man can only lie so much before crashing down. Everything Stan did was just to go back home. He took every shortcut he can, but he can't bring himself back at the porch empty handed. He loves his father way too much.

As years has gone by, he finds himself getting further and further away from the glass shard-ridden beach. The sounds of waterbirds are just as muffled as his judgement, and all Stan wants is to get things over with. From illegal work to downright immoral, somewhere along the lines Stan might've gave up. He allowed himself get drowned not by the sea of salt, but all of his problems. He never stood a chance; and giving up his name seems to be easier than staying alive. But no matter how many time he has betrayed himself, Stan just can't get rid of the heart he thought had died years ago. No matter how much he runs aways, the whole entirety of him just wants to stay. And his soul is stuck, anchored and haunted by the presence of a payphone.

No matter how many years has passed, there's a part of him that refused to grow up. As if he is saving it for the same boy he believes will welcome him back in open arms. Even after heart break after heartache, Stan still stands—and he's so, so tired.

When Stan got ahold of the postcard, his heart started bumping. Like he's been lifted from the depths of the watery deep, and he couldn't be any more thankful. No storm can stop him, no goons can scare him, it's just him and his second chance of together forever. But that didn't work out, and he realizes that Stan is indeed just a boy. Tried to burn his journal? What was he thinking? Maybe he did deserve everything, and another thing for not learning. What was wrong with him? And now he lost his brother again. His father was right, mistakes, no matter how accidental it may be, bears consequence, and he had become his brother's executioner.

A life a for a life. He threw everything away just to get him back. He was ready to betray himself once more. He'll stop running away, stop trying to go home, stop trying to find a spot for himself in other people's hearts. It's what killed him after all. But, life has a sense of humor to them, because it's now keeping him alive. For the first time, he hears a laugh and his heart melts. They like his jokes? Now that was something. It would've meant something, but his lifeline isn't his anymore.

Stan swore on his breath that everything he has been through will all be worth it if it meant saving the first person who was there for him. A life for a life, right?

You'd think that after forever had passed, they'll be too old for this. Turns out, all wounds are fresh if it came from the person you love the most, and Stan is reminded yet again that no matter how much of an accident a mistake is, consequence will follow. He didn't mean to endanger his family, but that doesn't matter anymore.

So yet again he has stripped, lied, and bore his heart. Yet again, another act of self-betrayal. And yet again, Stan tricks himself that this time, it will surely be worth it.

The heart wants what it doesn't have, and he'll gladly offer it to the world if it meant another chance for together forever. Stanley's love for people is what killed him. But it was also what brought him back to life.

[aishangotome]

Azel Radwan: Chapter 16

Chapter 15

Thank you @passthechloroform for providing the video for this chapter!

♡———♡

The next day - two visitors walked through the bustling Tanzanite market with familiar steps.

Luke: Hey, are you really going?

Clavis: They said they wanted to meet us. There's no reason to refuse, is there?

Luke: But, you know, their intentions are pretty obvious...

The building in front of the two men, who had stopped walking, was the headquarters of the trading company that controls Tanzanite's tourism industry...

Luke: Aren't we going to get scolded?

Clavis: Haha, don't be so scared. We just entered the building without permission the other day, right?

Luke: After kicking down the "no entry for non-personnel" sign.

Clavis: Don't worry, just relax. I'm a professional at apologizing.

Luke: That's not something to be proud of.

Sighing at his brother's boisterous laughter, he heads towards the entrance where people are coming and going.

As they enter the lobby, crowded with tourists, the person they are looking for immediately comes running over.

Kumush: Thank you for coming. My name is Kumush, and I am the president of the Tourism Association.

Kumush: Please, come this way.

-- At the same time.

Silvio: You...

Emma: It's a misunderstanding!

Silvio: What is?

In the middle of the pure white hallway of the royal court, filled with a sacred and solemn atmosphere, Silvio, whom I happened to pass by, stopped in his tracks instead of walking on.

The people passing by were also glancing at us, and cold sweat trickled down my cheeks.

(How did this happen?)

Silvio: You're the one who made them kneel and cry, aren't ya?

Emma: As I said, it's a misunderstanding!

Aisha: Lady Emma, I will serve you with all my heart and soul, so please give me another chance!

Nadia: We will devote our lives to you, Lady Emma!

(...This is troubling.)

Prostrating themselves before me, foreheads pressed to the floor, were the two maids who were previously punished by Azel.

They seem to have regained their sanity more than back then, but the moment they pass me in the castle, they assume this position faster than a gust of wind and repeatedly apologize.

Emma: I really don't mind, so please raise your heads.

No matter how many times I say it, my words don't reach them.

I'm at my wit's end, feeling like crying.

Silvio: Jokes aside...

(It was a joke...)

Silvio: Look at how frightened they are. God must have done somethin', right?

Emma: That's true, but I don't know what he did...

Silvio: You know, don't ya? As you can see, they were threatened.

Silvio: Imagine this. If God told ya, "You'll die if you don't do good deeds tomorrow," what would you do?

Emma: ...Even if I was doubtful, I might try to do good deeds.

(Because God's prophecies are a "guaranteed reality.")

Silvio: They were subjected to the same thing. The prophecy of a tragic future turns reality into a nightmare.

Silvio: I don't know what the condition is to wake up from the nightmare...

Silvio: But the fact that they're eager to serve you with all their heart and soul... doesn't that mean something?

(Now that you mention it...)

Silvio: Ha, you're really favored by that greedy bastard, aren't ya?

Silvio's words made my heart leap for some reason.

Emma: Why do you say that?

Silvio: I don't know what these two did, but it means he's set them up to be your absolute allies, right?

Silvio: Even if he does this, it ain't worth a penny to him.

Silvio: The fact that he's doing somethin' that doesn't make him money clearly shows how he values you.

(...)

*flashback*

Azel: I remembered I had an urgent matter. It's extremely troublesome, but...

(...I still don't know the true meaning of that urgent matter.)

(But, if in fact he was just doing everything he could so I wouldn't be humiliated again...)

When my perception changes, my heart also sounds the alarm.

Emma: --Perhaps, that's not it.

Emma: I think it's not for my sake, but for revenge and to protect himself.

Silvio: What's that about?

Emma: I can't tell you the details, but...

(To prevent me from going crazy with the aphrodisiac and attacking Azel.)

(There must be no other meaning.)

*flashback*

Emma: Is it wrong to fall in love with the Living God?

Azel: It's absolutely forbidden.

Azel: Because it's troublesome.

*flashback over*

I let out a small breath and turned to the trembling maids.

Emma: If you have time, there's one thing I'd like to ask of you...

Silvio's guess seemed to be correct, and the two, raising their heads, had their eyes shining as if they had found hope.

Emma: I wonder if you could request an audience with His Majesty the King?

Nadia & Aisha: "We'll call His Majesty right away!"

The two regained their energy like fish in water and disappeared in an instant.

It's normally impossible for a mere book merchant to take the king's time, but they made an immediate decision.

Silvio: They might grant ya any wish, if it's yours.

Emma: I've learned to be careful with my words.

Silvio: If it's bestowed by God, use it without hesitation.

Silvio: By the way, are you goin' to do business with the king?

Emma: No, there's something I want to ask him.

-

Enis: I apologize for the wait.

Before long, I was ushered into the throne room, and His Majesty Ennis welcomed me warmly.

(...The fact that I can summon even the king immediately is scary.)

Enis: Prince Silvio, it's good to see you too.

Silvio: Sorry to interrupt. I'm just an escort.

Silvio: I was curious about what this woman wants to ask the king.

Enis: Oh? I'll answer anything I can.

The silver-haired king smiles cheerfully, not seeming offended by the sudden summons.

Emma: I apologize for taking your time during your busy schedule.

(This might not be something I should ask for an audience and take your time, but...)

Emma: About the prophecy of the end left by the first Living God...

Emma: Prince Azel said it would be good to ask Your Majesty Enis, so I came here.

Enis: ......

Enis: ...I see, the Living God...

(His face changed color...?)

Just like the diviner woman I met in the alley before, it was a reaction as if he wanted to avoid "touching the end."

Enis: Any diviner or member of the royal court knows the prophecy of the end...

Enis: The fact that you specifically named me must be a divine order to give you information that only I know.

Enis sits deeply in his throne and looks up at the ceiling.

His appearance, as if he is thinking of a distant place, is filled with anguish, and I exchange glances with Silvio.

Enis: Of course, I will answer your question.

Enis: But before that, would you listen to one request of mine?

Enis, his gaze back on me, gives me a sincere look.

I don't know what the "request" is, but I don't feel any malice in it.

Emma: I'll be happy to accept if it's something I can do.

Enis: Thank you. Actually--.

-

Azel: I refuse.

Back at the temple, Azel's first words as he was repairing the outer wall were not "welcome back."

Emma: I haven't said anything yet.

Azel: The fact that you came back in a hurry at this hour speaks for itself.

Azel: You have two choices: give up, or have the wealthy gentleman next to you pay me.

Silvio: Why the hell should I pay ya when there's no profit in it for me?

Azel: Prince Silvio, I hear there's a custom of offering coins in Kougyoku.

Azel: It's a wonderful system of faith where you offer money as a thank you for God's blessings...

Silvio: That's what he says, woman.

Emma: I don't want to be squeezed dry anymore.

Azel: Then there's no room for discussion. I'm busy, so...

Azel skillfully applies a glue-like substance made by adding water to lime, as if filling the gaps in the crumbling stone wall.

Emma: It's a request from Enis.

Azel: Why should I listen to the words of a mere king?

Emma: Please, just this once... You just need to show your face at the evening party for a little while.

Tonight, an impromptu evening party hosted by the king will be held at Tanzanite Castle.

The party, which will be attended by influential people from the Land of Illusions, seems to have the intention of gathering information on the unstable situation following the recent riot and showing that God's protection is still in place to build peace of mind for the people.

Emma: I heard that you don't really like parties, Prince Azel...

Azel: Yes. The reason I don't want to attend gatherings of people... Surely you understand, intelligent as you are?

Emma: It's because the participants get restless, right?

Azel: ...What kind of reason is that?

Emma: If you were to attend the party, Prince Azel, the people around you would surely be distracted.

Emma: They wouldn't be able to enjoy chatting, and the party meant for enjoyment would turn into a gathering to worship God...

Emma: I thought that you wouldn't want that to happen.

(I've noticed while spending time with you that despite your mean personality, your kindness shows through here and there.)

I felt that my guess that he was intentionally not participating out of consideration for others was accurate.

Azel: The me in your mind is quite compassionate, isn't he?

Azel: Unfortunately, I have no such noble purpose. It's just bothersome.

Azel: However, it was unexpected that Enis would ask you to do an errand.

Azel: The fact that he's resorting to such a poor way to buy time means that he still hasn't come to terms with the prophecy in his heart...

Azel: It's pathetic that he still can't let go of his emotions even though he's become a puppet.

(Puppet...?)

As if to say the conversation was over, Azel continued his repair work silently.

It seemed he had no intention of listening even if I brought up the king's name, but this was within my expectations.

(When asking Azel for a favor, payment is an absolute condition...)

(However, I don't have an endless supply of wealth like Silvio.)

(I'm glad I prepared a secret weapon before coming here.)

Emma: Prince Azel.

I take out what I had in my pocket and hold it out in front of his mystical eyes.

His work stops.

Azel: ..."Special Service Ticket that grants any wish"...

Silvio: ...!

Ignoring Silvio, who suddenly burst out laughing, I offer the ticket to Azel with both hands.

Emma: This has a monetary value equivalent to repaying all the debt I owe you.

Azel: ...Are you stupid?

Emma: But as a special offer! If you grant my wish, I will give you this ticket for free.

Azel: ...

Emma: Please don't look at me with pity.

Silvio: My stomach hurts... A "do anything you want" ticket for a God... I'm impressed... Haha...!

Emma: You're laughing too much, Prince Silvio!

(I knew it... I knew the chances were slim... but I'm starting to feel embarrassed.)

Azel: ...It's embarrassing, isn't it? Trying to bribe a God with a cheap, childish ticket like this.

Emma: It's a... luxury ticket...

Azel: It has no value to me. In the first place, you still have a huge debt.

Azel: Above all, I am a God who grants people's wishes--aren't you giving it to the wrong person?

(...I want to rewind time right now.)

I cover my flushed face with my hands, but peek at the God's face through the gaps in my fingers--

Azel: Only a fool like you would think of such a ridiculous thing.

(...)

For just a moment--in a fleeting instant that I almost mistook for an illusion, a soft, moon-like smile appeared on his face.

(No, I... I seem to be weak to this face.)

I quickly averted my eyes, feeling as if I had touched something forbidden.

Silvio: Woman, you couldn't seduce the God?

Emma: ...He was too tough.

It seems Silvio didn't see it, so I pretend nothing happened.

Silvio: Well, the king also said "it would be difficult," right? There's no point in givin' up.

Silvio: If you have time to deal with the God, why don't ya go back and prepare for the evenin' party?

Emma: You're right. I think the maids are waiting for me--

As I try to give up and leave Azel, he grabs my hand.

Azel: Why are you attending the evening party?

Emma: His Majesty the King invited me.

Silvio: You wannna gather information for the Rhodolite guys, right?

Emma: That's part of it.

Azel: You, who are drowning in debt, should have the important task of making my dinner.

Emma: There are leftovers from yesterday, so you won't have any trouble with your meal, Prince Azel.

Azel: ...

Emma: Is it... not okay?

(I was invited to the evening party and ended up replying, but maybe that was too hasty.)

Although he doesn't have his usual frown in front of Silvio, I feel pressure from his gentle smile.

Azel: Have you forgotten that you are a debtor? You must prioritize God above all else.

Emma: Prince Azel, could it be that...

Emma: ...are you lonely?

Silvio: ...!

In contrast to Silvio, who burst out laughing again, Azel's smile stiffened.

Azel: You... you have some nerve to insult a God?

Emma: It wasn't an insult, it was an observation.

Azel: That's not something to be proud of. I'm actually relieved that you won't be here.

Emma: Well then, I'll be off to the evening party.

Azel: ...

Emma: Ah, I finally understand. Actually, you're worried-- Ow!

In the end, as always, he pulled my cheek and forcibly silenced me.

Azel: Maybe it's time to consider imprisonment for blasphemy. After paying the fine, of course.

(Not good, not good!)

Silvio: Ha, don't worry so much. I'll accompany you.

Silvio: An escort is essential for Tanzanite evening parties, right?

Silvio: If God isn't coming, I have no choice but to be your partner.

Silvio was grinning broadly, and it was clear that it wasn't just out of goodwill.

(But I'd feel uneasy going alone, so I'll take advantage of his offer this time.)

Azel: ...You're quite the curious one, Prince Silvio.

Silvio: I don't want to hear that from ya, the one who's lettin' an unknown woman live here.

Silvio: If you ain't happy about it, you can come along. You love free meals, don't ya?

Azel: A God cannot easily be involved in worldly affairs.

Silvio: What's that, you money-hungry bastard?

Azel: In the first place, Miss Emma, do you really intend to go?

Azel: Your little head seems to have already forgotten what happened at the royal court.

(He might actually be worried about me.)

(...This is awkward.)

Emma: I'll be careful.

Silvio: I don't know what happened, but I'll be there, so it'll be fine. You owe me one.

As if to rescue me from Azel's clutches, Silvio puts his hand on my shoulder and casually pulls me closer.

Azel: ...Well, fine.

Azel: I don't care at all, not even a little bit, where you go or what you do.

Azel maintains the smile of a merciful God.

But his eyebrows were faintly furrowed.

As if he had seen something unpleasant.

-

Clavis: --Now then, Kumushu. What is this matter that we must discuss away from prying eyes?

Unlike the bustling lobby, the reception room upstairs was filled with silence.

Kumush: I don't like beating around the bush, so let me ask you directly.

Kumush: Are you familiar with the world's calamity, the beast of ruin, the renowned figure known as the ever-victorious general?

Clavis & Luke: "................."

Clavis: ...Of course, we are.

Luke: Why is his name coming up?

Kumush: Actually, there's something I'd like to consult with you about.

The lump that was taken out of the wooden box placed under the table changed the atmosphere of the room.

Clavis: ...This isn't a funny joke, is it?

.

.

.

Chapter 16 Letter

If you’d like to support my translations, feel free to leave me a tip here or buy me a coffee through the "Leave a Tip" button on my navigation bar!

I just wanna say, I love Silvio in this route. I love that he's kind of an acquaintance and not just a full-on jerk to Emma. And I love that he's making Azel jealous LOL.

[spotlightlowlife]

Personality over power hazbin a helluva lie

even in the real world, those who have power and influence don't need to be smart or charming to be heard around the world, yet someone from nothing is highly likely to go unheard always.

One thing I do appreciate about Hazbin and Helluva is the awful relationships serving as a reminder (with multiple examples) that there are a lack of good depictions of stable couples from rich and poor backgrounds in fiction.

You can't tell me that these relationships don't have a massive power imbalance.

'They just want positivity and therefore they are in the right'

is the message pushed when depicting the party holding all the cards, but being a jerk does not level the playing field.

Both Blitzø and Fizz have certianly been sassy dicks to others, but it just so happens that both become desparatre at realising that this could all be over or is entirely down to their sugar daddy ending it because they're bored of them.

They're not just getting sex and the chance to hang out in luxury, they're getting the opportunity to work, Blitzø is supporting others and Fizz has a supply of artificial limbs to replace his missing ones.

Both are highly performative in trying to prove themselves which suits their background of being used for money, yet they've been out there achieving and are grown adults, but still getting guided by a superior, another sort of daddy, there to subtle coercion or aggressively throw put downs.

Oops and the Mammon mid season don't make a lot of sense if you're trying to understand Fizz's actions and mindset stripped back of Ozzie's influence, everything was fine in Oops, for some reason Ozzie didn't want Fizz going out into this dangerous area alone, but Fizz wanted space from a smothering partner (who interestingly enough attends the pageant rehersals) and is happy to set out while Ozzie is exceptionally busy. Makes sense. Fizz uses a driver but then does a runway walk down the street. Doesn't make sense. Blitzø, Crimson and Striker all happen to be a few meters away. Convenient but this sped up his reconciliation with Blitzø, so progress. By the end of the episode, shaken up and damaged Fizz who is entirely dependent on Ozzie for a repair doesn want to go out again, so Ozzie was right, isn't this trauma bond is cute.

Next episode Ozzie wants Fizz to quit his other job, by the end, that happens. Nevermind that the previous episode had Fizz stand out intentionally and get into trouble for his love of fame when he could have used a crystal to teleport to the rehearsal, nevermind him undermining Ozzie's fear of this area which had been the only issue that episode which could have sparked a grown convensation about mortality and powerlessness, let's just nuke the job that brings him that fame, blame that and takes him away from his other life, freeing up time for we know what...

Next time we see Fizz, he's at home, promoting Ozzie's work.

Why did we see this scene? Because Blitzø would approach Fizz (who already undermined his experience with 'dating' royalty) in a desperate attempt to impress Stolas, who's recent behaviour reads boredom and regret at their transactionship. So important is what Blitzø has with Stolas that all of the other people he screwed over and whatever the beef, it's all trivial, he's even willing to face them in order to prove to Stolas his decency, like decency was ever a thing in this.

Stolas not only didn't let Blitzø have a say when he cornered him with an ultimatum, but masked himself of wrong doing by giving Blitzø a replacement for the grimore that was easily attained through ptivalge. He went on to gaslight him by denying tue stuff he was just into and negging by attending the anti Blitzø party that is supposedly for ex's yet what reason do we have to believe these all past relationships and not a bunch of flings thrown in? Why is Stolas viewed as an ex when he and Blitzø were supposed to be sneaking around? When they were out in public it was Stolas who looked ashamed, so anyone who crosses paths with Blitzø is the innocent party who is in the right?

Stolas being at the party was no big deal to anyone, how does he not stand out as royalty being the latest addition to the club? Blitzø's ability to piss people off has him ranking up there with the same royalty people secretly hate.

Fast forward and just as we have seen Stolas think about the family he never really had, we know have Blitzø aligning with him and seeing all that they could have.

Moving on from the invested into..

Nobody can tell me Vortex doesn't get the shitty end of the stick in working as a lackey in a world where his kind have few options and can be reduced to pets

before getting the chance to let his hair down and hang out with his girlfriend, a leader of hell who poses as a normie

and benefits from others 'letting their hair down' by binging at superficial parties that may allow them to forget how trash things are for the night.

One thing about Bee's character's that works is ironically the lack of effort spent on the female characters. There is zero forced toxic romance between her and Vortex, combined with her being immortal, very shallow and her description claiming she empathise and caters her parties to impress, he easily could be a fad for the moment. Fair enough.

Lastly Vaggie who was thought to be a banged up sinner.

Revealed to be an angel in a twist (which didn't matter in the slightest, is this less of or more of a big deal than dating the lowest class of demon?), what followed was Charlie disappointed that she had bee lied to all these years, so what conversations were they actually having? Seems a lot like Blitzø and Stolas's breakfast together where they realise that they don't really know one another, only difference being Charlie x Vaggie have years together. Did Charlie ever learn a backstory because there's nothing to make us believe Vaggie gave a false one? This makes Charlie reading the storybook of her parents and hell's creation even more placey because why now?

Not only was Vaggie cast out and homeless when she was maimed and abandoned, but as far as angel's go, her type seem to be bottom of the pack? The imps or hellhounds of heaven.

Vaggie goes on to be a loyal sidekick, bruiser, chemistry deficient girlfriend and keeper of Charlie's who keeps her mouth shut of any opinion on Charlie's endeavours, it's not even clear that she agrees.

But again, the lack of time that went into the ladies has Charlie as a childish bimbo who is bad at this job she invented, isn't really a people's person and seen running the hotel at the very least, but even sulked to her daddy for help, which helped what should be a bigger deal slide.

It would make sense to work more on the powerful to powerless devide. Those sitting right at the top being so oblivious to how their behaviour affects others because they don't realise that they do see those lower than them as subservient regardless of how 'nice' they are. Those at the top having little idea what being beaten down on in life feels like and not developing a gloomy outlook. There are ways these characters can too be empathetic dispite being a fantasist troublemaker by not realizing their privilege. On the opposite end a number of characters have been the guilty and wrong party for being desperate and going into deals.

[mak-be-ghouled]

Pits to Pack

1.2k words of Rain ghoul angst

Hurt/comfort ft. Mountain under the cut (happy ending)

Rain’s life in the pits really wasn’t too bad, in some ways it actually could be considered better than his life topside. 

For one, Rain’s body was better suited for his pit life, sure this is true with most ghouls, it's quite a challenge to fit a hell beast into a human-adjacent vessel, but water and air ghouls typically had the most trouble adjusting, and Rain was no stranger to the sometimes excruciating pain that came alongside being a water ghoul on Earth.

In the pits, Rain really was the top of the food chain, he thrived in the deepest depths the pit had to offer, but he was alone. He never really had a pack, the only memories he had in regard to a pack in the pits were ones he’d rather not relive. 

And so, Rain got used to the silence, to the security, to the protection that being alone offered him. I mean all he had to compare it to was his birth pack, and this was so much better than anything they ever had to offer, so surely Rain was thriving, wasn’t he?

When Rain is summoned however, everything gets flipped on its head. He is still alone, he doesn’t know anyone, but he’s surrounded, and somehow this is so much worse. 

Rain can't help but shrink into himself when the second largest figure in the room crouches down in front of him. An earth ghoul if his memory is serving him correct. 

The earth ghoul reaches around Rain and drapes a blanket around his shivering form. When did it get so cold?

Rain wants to flinch away, to curl into himself more, to do anything to protect himself, but he just…can't. He's so tired and so cold and everything hurts.

This earth ghoul though, he doesn't have any of the heat behind his eyes that Rain is used to seeing, his body isn't screaming at him that he's in danger, and the blanket is just so nice, and warm, and soft and-

Rain doesn’t remember much from his summoning day other than the burning pain that ran rampant through every fiber of his being.

At first Rain tries to keep his new ‘pack’ at arms length. He never had a real pack, why did he need one now? Why did he deserve one now? But most importantly, if he doesn’t let them get too close, then he can’t get hurt, right?

But somehow this gentle, loving pack manages to worm its way into his icy little heart, to fill gaps he didn’t even know were there.

And now? 

For the first time Rain is a part of a pack. A pack that he loves and a pack that loves him even more than he’ll ever really be able to comprehend. 

For the first time Rain belonged to something that wasn’t the deepest depths that water could provide. 

For the first time Rain understood what he had been missing out on in the pits, how lonely he was, how much he craved attention, craved affection, craved love. Rain had been bitten by the bug, had been intoxicated, and now there was no going back. He couldn’t imagine a life without his pack mates by his side. 

Rain is quickly and affectionately nicknamed ‘princess’, but that's only because the pack just loves spoiling their princess so much. And can you really blame them? They're just making up for lost time and making sure their princess knows the extent to which their love goes.

Sure, maybe Rain's life was “easier” in the pits, and sure it would be nice not having his vessel actively fighting against him day in and day out, but still, he’s not too sure he’d survive going back.

Not without his pack.

However, Rain is no stranger to the ministry’s history regarding water ghouls. He is all too aware of their track record. 

Water ghouls don’t last. 

They get replaced, sent back, banished, or changed. 

What makes Rain think he is any different? 

So now that tour is over, now that his time should be up judging by the previous timelines, Rain is terrified. 

There’s already going to be a new front man, what’s stopping them from replacing a subpar water ghoul too?

Before Rain even realizes what he's doing, he's isolating himself again. Maybe, subconsciously, he's trying to distance himself from the pack again, maybe he's trying to protect himself, or them, he’s really not sure. And even though Rain is doing this to himself, knows he is the only one to blame, he can't help but wish someone would join him. He knows it's not fair to ask that of them, knows he’s not going to be pleasant to be around, but fuck does he need someone.

And almost as if on command, there's a small knock at the door. Light from the hallway floods the room and disappears as quickly as it appeared. 

“Rain, baby, are you awake?” Mountain whispers as he moves towards the vaguely Rain shaped lump of bedding.

As much as Rain wants to respond, wants to reach for Mountain, to be held in those sturdy arms, the only thing his body seems to allow him to do is to pull his blanket tighter to his shaking body. 

Mountain gets a hand on Rain's shoulder and all of the fight drains from his body, he can't help but be reminded of that little water ghoul splayed out on the summoning circle all those years ago. 

“Rainy, Baby, what's goin on? We’ve been missin you today” Mountain says softly as he pulls back the blanket to reveal his water ghoul.

Rain wants to speak, he does, wants to yell at Mountain to go away, wants to beg him to stay, to hold him and to never leave him, but he just can't, can't find the words floating around in his head. 

“Can I join you, love?” Mountain asks, cupping Rain's jaw in his hand and running his thumb along his cheek. 

Rain just nods and leans heavily into Mountain's hand.

Mountain clambers into Rain’s bed, attempting to untangle the water ghoul as much as he can from the bedding so he can hold Rain close to his chest.

Rain just allows himself to be ragdolled onto Mountain’s chest.

“Its not true Princess, whatever's goin on in your head, it's not true. We love you so much, I love you so much, you're not going anywhere, ‘specially not if I have anything to say about it. 

Rain wants nothing more than to be able to say something to Mountain but he just can't get the words to come out so he just nuzzles into Mountain’s neck and hopes he’ll understand.

And of course he does, he always does.

“I love you Baby, more than the stars in the sky and the waves in the sea. Get some sleep my love, you're safe, I'm not going anywhere, I promise.” Mountain says, placing a kiss to the crown of his princess’s head.

Later, when Rain wakes up from an actually restful sleep, they'll talk about what's going on in his head, but for now both he and Mountain are content to share each other's company.

[sickfictropes]

I just read a comic where one of the traumatized characters suddenly flinched and looked behind him while talking to his friend. Aforementioned friend said "is something wrong?" and traumatized character went "I felt like I was being watched... meh, false alarm."

(for context, it was a moringmark comic and the characters were Hunter and Gus from TOH respectively)

Two things about this. A, Traumatized Character (Hunter, but to avoid this turning into an analysis of TOH let's keep it anonymous in wording if not spirit) gets the feeling that he's being watched (and in this case, someone is watching him because Chekhov's Gun), which means he can tell when someone is watching him. B, he immediately backtracks on this, hinting that he has feelings like this regularly and that they're usually benign. What he thinks is a useless trauma response is actually a sharp instinct that serves a purpose.

I'm sure you're wondering where I'm going with this, and why I'm in your askbox about it.

It made me think, what if there was a whumpee, supernatural probably but could also just have really good instincts, has a sort of "spider sense" and can miraculously know when danger is afoot? The team uses this to their advantage, frequently checking in and going "Whumpee, everything good?" / "Hey Whumpee, think this path is safe?" because Whumpee's miraculous ability hasn't failed them yet and has gotten them out of a few scrapes. Whumpee relies on this ability too to navigate the world—and to help to their beloved team.

So. What would happen if this ability went haywire?

Whumpee is unwell somehow, but their symptoms are either ignorable or mild enough that they haven't even been noticed yet. So they haven't told the others, of course. At one point, something happens.

Now, I'm imagining this as high fantasy / travel whump, historical time period, maybe a bit inspired by The Dragon Prince on Netflix. ANY genre could work but I'm just gonna write out my ideas with this in mind

Here are the options.

Whumpee's danger alarm goes off. One minute everything is good and mellow, the next the hairs on the back of their neck are spiking and adrenaline floods their veins. Everything in their body is on high alert, and they know what that means—something's coming, something big. So they warn the team. The danger sense doesn't usually have this strong an affect on them, so it must be really bad. Their panicked tone and the way they're shaking wakes the whole team right up, and Leader is suddenly pushing the others behind them, looking around for any sign of trouble while interrogating Whumpee on what they think they could be sensing. They're too shaken to answer the questions all that well, and the sense is always vague anyway. They just know there's danger. But as the team goes into a frenzy, ready to defend themselves or run away if necessary, time passes. But like I said, Whumpee's ability hasn't failed them yet, so they trust it. If they say there's danger, there's danger, don't lower your weapons. But then Whumpee realizes that there are sensations they aren't used to—they usually don't feel this warm or dizzy during a "danger's approaching" moment. So... what's going on?

On the other end of the spectrum, there is danger, and Whumpee doesn't sense it. They're calm as ever, if feeling a little under the weather for reasons they can't place. They chat with their teammates, laughing along to their stories and acting like nothing's wrong. But something is wrong. Because something happens—a monster comes barreling through the trees, followed by a whole pack. A hostile monster. Everyone knows Whumpee should've seen it a mile away, so as everyone scrambles for a fight they didn't prepare for, some teammates try and focus on the task at hand while others scream at Whumpee, "Why didn't you warn us about this?!". But there's at least one who looks heartbreakingly concerned and just asks "you didn't sense this? are you alright?"

It might also be interesting if Whumpee's senses weren't going haywire in the sense that they were wrong, just that they were affecting them so strongly they couldn't really do anything.

Say there's something dangerous—really dangerous. Maybe the world is ending, even. I mean, we are talking high fantasy team whump, so it's within the realm of possibility. Everyone is trying to keep their heads together. But Whumpee's never had to physically feel impending danger this intense before, so they have the worst anxiety attack known to man and probably pass out.

Or maybe it hurts every time, no matter how mild the danger. Usually the focus isn't on them since when they sense danger, that means the whole team needs to focus on that. But someone asks, after the fight is over, "what does it feel like?" and Whumpee struggles to explain the acid in their lungs, the fire in their stomach and ice in their hands. The reason why they can hardly breathe when they so much as look across the tavern at someone with their hand on the hilt of their sword. They can't afford to focus to themself, though. So they swallow down and take it.

SORRY FOR THE WALL OF TEXT I JUST GOT REALLY ENTHUSIASTIC

OMG THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THIS NOVELLA I LOVE IT!! you were so thorough that i don't have much to add but i'll say i love when powers become unseless when they're sick. i used this trope a lot in my TMA fanfics on my AO3 and fic blog because it's just so so good!!

[syndrossi]

the daenerys replies got me thinking of a resonant AU where dany also gets blasted into the past (maybe she goes to summerhall to look for jon after he goes missing?) but instead of being jon and rhaeger's sister, she reawakens as saera targaryen's 8yo daughter (perhaps with a volantene noble?). now this will probably have big effects to the volantis shenanigans, the evil ppl who are ecstatic that a prophecy baby and possible TPWP being born so close to home and saera is wary of all these wizard ppl who are suddenly so interested in her baby girl but oh look they just gifted dany three dragon eggs, wait hold on her daughter just hatched three dragons?? how is that even possible... and dany being dany is like well idk what's going on but it's time to fix volantis' sociopolitical structure with my cool new mom

i think dany would eventually get suspicious of the wizard people and decide to escape volantis and go back to westeros, especially if her dragon's grow as fast as they did in canon, then within a year or two they would be large enough to carry her and saera across the narrow sea. meanwhile in westeros, daemon and viserys worst fears are realized when they start getting reports about a valyrian girl in volantis with the control of three dragons. and she's headed straight for them?? but hold on is that aunt saera with her??

just them reacting to this little girl with three enormous dragons and daemon's immediately suspicious as to why dany looks more like she could be rhaegar's twin than jon, and hold on jon and dany seem to know each other?? what is going on... and poor viserys is in panic mode bc aunt saera has a prophecy baby??? with three balerions???? I need to get this girl betrothed immediately!!!!! and jon and dany are happy (if confused) to reunite and once dany realizes that rhaegar's here too she def gets emotional bc that's the brother she looked up to all her life and named a son and dragon after ;-;

Saera would have been so smug about bringing dragons to Volantis through one of her children! (She'd be an older mama, though--in her early forties at the time of birth if Dany is meant to be the same age as Jon and Rhaegar, and close to fifty by the time Daemon finds them.) Given that she had a bastard son with one of the Triarchs in the early 90s AC, it's not far-fetched to imagine Dany's father is the same man.

The nature of the sorcery that brought them here is such that Dany would be in some pretty big trouble that close to Volantis, though, so probably best that this wasn't the case! Otherwise, Saera would have needed to get her daughter out of there quickly/early, and I don't think her ambition would have allowed her to.

But in the event that Saera decided to forgo her "kingdom" in Volantis, Dany's own hatchling would have been too small to carry them away, so my guess is they would have done their best to hide the hatchling and secure passage via ship.

Which still serves as quite the surprise to those in King's Landing! Aunt Saera alive and back in Westeros after all those decades? Only Rhaenys and Viserys were even old enough to really remember her! Rhaenys would have been around 10 when she fled to Essos.

And Viserys's WTF WHY IS EVERYONE ELSE HAVING PROPHECY BABIES reaction? And the immediate dilemma of what's he's supposed to do. Do you wed two prophecy children together? Dilute the prophecy by marrying them back into the main line? HELP.

(Awwww, Dany reuniting with Jon and finally getting to meet Rhaegar. And he does look just like her, just as everyone had told her. And her immediately agreeing with Jon that he must be protected from all things Baratheon and Trident. And Rhaegar being like omg this is the Dany? The one who brought the dragons back? And Dany immediately spilling the beans about Rhaegar being Jon's dad because she doesn't know that Jon's been trying to keep that from him.)

[hcfiles]

Once in a while, someone asks me to prove my thoughts about this shenanigan (The ones believing in this circus are a minority). Aren't the last four years enough proof? From day one, this circus was seen for what it was and the efforts done to try to prove the fake was real, in my opinion, was the main confession that it was only staged circus:

a) The insistence in continuing staging the plot.

b) The unscrupulous and amateur strategies resulting in a bigger disaster.

c) The obvious and immoral move of motivating hate on the internet to crack the fandom so they would go against each other - intentionally having two possible reasons:

- a fuss to call attention to herself by repeating what she did on the MTV show and have the attention she wanted (what could have been an intention he didn't know of, catching him by surprise),

- a move to "neutralize" the bad publicity he was having by putting fans against each other to deviate attention and justify the mess as toxic fans' reaction, instead of assuming it was a result of a massive management disaster.

d) The obvious way he was suffering, while she was pleased taking advantage of the situation and how he looked uncomfortable on several public occasions by her side - totally unnatural and against the idea of the couple "happy in love and in life" - before surrendering to the plot and having pleasure with it.

e) The lack of a single natural picture showing both together in natural moments - What it seemed is that he refused to take more pictures with her after the only ones they apparently had together - the one in front of the house (which seemed manipulated) and the one at the woods (used in one of his posts saying she would have gotten injured).

f) The obvious and APPARENT control loss he had of his IG page - Was it a loss or he surrendered and allowed it?

g) The use of the dogs to mock and tease the fandom so as to promote the fake plot and hate on the internet.

The entire time this plot screamed fake all over and indicated a gigantic and absurd management mistake. But, if the goal was to promote her image and name, they might have taken advantage of those mistakes. That's what it seems. It surprises me, taking into consideration how he had always been successful promoting his image, despite having troubles with PR stunts before, specifically with the women chosen. But, nothing had been that messy before.

The precedents in this area indicated that it was a matter of time until they screwed big time. How do they make that selection? Is it ordered by a production company? Or is the actor' s choice by being vain? Does the woman in question pay to be the next on the list? It doesn't matter. It's escorting, a fancy and glamorous pros*******n activity serving the brothel called Hollywood.

Some actors are completely against it. Others do it, but not that much as Henry did during his professional life. He made it a parallel business going through so many PR stunts he got sloppy. My God! Any dude can see this is management damage. You don't have to be a professional in the area of PRs to see that his team did him a major disservice. The question is: Why? What the f**k happened?

Apparently, they weren't expecting this woman to have such negative feedback. But, didn't they check her background? Possible is that some who know her from her past, the ones she once bullied and humiliated at the time, came to hunt her. Well, being a fake show or not, she exposed and humiliated people on National TV, while bragging to be a rich brat and now, she had what she deserved - Karma!

And he, indirectly, paid for that, because he accepted going on a PR with a woman of a promiscuous and disgusting past. Didn't he know about his brilliant love and Godsent's past? How is that possible? How could he even suppose that announcing a date with such a figure would be good for his image? Being a private person and, if in a real relationship with this woman, wouldn't it be better if he kept it far from the spotlight?

Oh! But it was necessary to be exposed. Why? Isn't he private and that, his private life? So, I'm sorry! This "romance" is not real life. It's a PR terribly managed. But, that's not the worst. The worst is what came later: a fake plot including a pregnancy followed by a paternity. Getting out of a terrible PR plot is easy by announcing a breakup. But, getting out of a plot in which they use a fake baby belly and fakes a paternity?

It's a professional suicide and there's no way he can turn it back. So, I am curious to see how he's gonna get out of this mess after going that far to compromise his integrity and credibility.

[jakes3resin]

gosh!! magic au!! theseus! chaos of having at the base and it’s like two bucky. gale would definitely be shocked!

That au really hit me like a fever dream, my dear anon. I was thinking about the Twin Cleven AU and the Blond Bucky bit I added when I remembered I tacked on a tiny Theseus Easter egg. 30 minutes later I had Magic AU in my drafts with no memory of writing it.

But I've sketched out some thoughts for you and for those who are interested (please keep in mind the last time I watched Fantastic Beasts was a few years ago so I don't remember much):

Bucky's a Scamander by his father (Theseus and Newt's uncle) but goes by his mother's maiden name as he was taken in by her brother and his wife.

Both his parents were magic, but they died near the end of the First World War. Bucky stayed with the Scamanders for a little while before eventually going to America before he turned 4. Theseus was very close with him, and they were occasionally mistaken as father and son due to the age difference (Theseus was a war hero during the First World War if I remember correctly?) (Also that could be an AU now that I think about it but not rn)

He has a bit of a British accent, comes out more when he's using magic. Or when he's around his cousins. First time Buck hears it, he just about faints.

Went to Hogwarts solely because his parents went there, and he wanted to feel close to them. Not sure what House but leaning Hufflepuff. He seems like he'd be happy there.

Enjoyed the school somewhat, but he dealt with some bullying due to his American upbringing as well as some of the students still remembered Newt and bullied him for that connection.

His favorite animal is still the unicorn. It's just not extinct like he said to Buck. What can I say? Every Scamander is good with magical animals.

Had an accidental falling out with the Scamander family who wanted him to move permanently to England and stay with them during his schooling, but he prefered spending his summers in America and winter holidays in the castle.

Came home before he turned 18 (I guess started Hogwarts young for his grade? Idk.) And decided to blend in to Muggle/No-Maj society by going to college and later joining the Air Force.

After Bucky's revelation to the RAF pilots, one of them writes home saying he met Theseus Scamander's cousin! This gets passed through Wizarding society until it lands in the ears of Theseus who didn't have a clue his cousin was in England, let alone serving in a Muggle unit. And after hearing about the death toll, he gets scared.

Theseus resolves to pop down there and check in on his cousin. And unknowingly reeks havoc upon Thorpes Abbotts.

Looks like this:

(This is in a nebulous point before Curtis' death because he deserves to be alive my baby boy)

Literally everyone that sees him is flabbergasted because 1) Major Egan is handsome but he never dresses like That and 2) Major Egan is supposed to be flying back from a mission right now. Word travels through base, and it's alight with rumors.

Theseus gets dragged to Kidd's office because literally everyone is freaking out, and he's quite confused why everyone keeps calling him Bucky. He tries to explain that he's Theseus and that he's here to see his cousin John, but every time he speaks the people around him all jump (its cause his accent spooks them. That accent should not be coming from someone who looks so much like Bucky in their mind. Boy are they in for a rude awakening.)

Bucky flies back in, and after interrogation, he doesn't even get a chance to change clothes before he's being dragged to Kidd's office. Buck and a few of the boys follow utterly confused. If Bucky's in trouble, Buck's not just gonna stand by.

Theseus happily greets Bucky when he walks into the office, and the pair have an okay reunion before Theseus states that he's here to check on his younger cousin, heavily implying that he's here to transfer Bucky to a British outfit as he's a British citizen and their family connections want to keep him safe (really a Wizard one but among Muggles he's better at speaking around the issue)

Thus an argument breaks out. Bucky's accent also comes out, and nearly everyone around him loses their minds.

Buck really, really does not want to talk about what that accent does to him. It's confusing and concerning. (Clegan are together, but when your partner busts out the London Accent, well that's a gamechanger)

Anyways idk where it goes after that, but now everyone has to deal with the fallout that Bucky is British and has a nearly identical cousin who pops in to check on him.

[ofstarsandvibranium]

To Have & To Hold: Part 2

Fandom: Marvel - Moon Knight (Mafia AU)

Pairing: Marc Spector x F!Reader, Steven Grant x F!Reader, Jake Lockley x F!Reader

Summary: To ensure you’re always safe even after his passing, your father, a mob boss, makes you marry his right hand, Marc Spector. You don’t necessarily hate Marc, but you don’t get along either. Therefore, this marriage of convenience may be a bit difficult for you.

Series Masterlist

You and Marc sit across from each other at a restaurant. Your father had made a reservation for the two of you in a private room. You slump back, arms crossed over your chest, glaring at the bubbles in your champagne.

Marc sits up, back straight. He's alert but his eyes are on you, watching you. It's been fairly silent between the two of you since you both arrived to the restaurant.

He finally speaks up, "You gonna speak or somethin'?"

"Why would you agree to this?" you look at him in disbelief, "I mean, besides being my dad's successor in the business, what could you possibly gain marrying me?"

"Is it hard to believe that I care about you?" he responds with his own question which makes you snort.

"Marc, yes, you've worked for my father for a long time. We see each other a lot, but I wouldn't necessarily count us as friends."

A server comes and refills your glass, even though you've barely had a sip, and refills Marc's whiskey. Marc gives him a nod of thanks and when they're gone, he looks back to you. He leans forward, resting his arms on the table, "Listen, I owe your father a lot. He's done a lot for me. You wanna know why I'm marrying you? Because I owe him and, despite your belief, I care about you."

You scoff, you seem to be doing that a lot since earlier today, "Right, sure. Whatever. If we're actually going through with this, I get to plan ninety percent of this wedding. Got it?"

Marc holds his hands up and leans back in his chair, "Whatever you want, sunshine." He proceeds to open the menu and take a look, "I don't know about you, but I'm starving and I'm tired of waiting for you to get out with this mood," he waves his hand in your direction.

You roll your own eyes and take a look at the menu. This is going to be a long dinner.

_______________

Plates empty, stomachs full, and three glasses of champagne later, the dinner was finally over. You and Marc made, surprisingly, good conversation. He asked you about your charity organization. Throughout the entire time, Marc kept his focus on you, nodding and occasionally pushing for you to share more.

You asked about him, however, he wasn't very keen to talk about his past. You understood. You remember when he started working for you dad. All your father told you was that he's had a troubled past, but he gets stuff done. So your father took him under his wing. From what Marc told you, he was a former Marine and mercenary.

"I wanted to serve my country but...in the process, I hurt a lot of people." You could see the regret in his eyes.

"No offense, Marc, but if you don't like hurting people, getting into the mafia business isn't necessarily a way to-I don't know-cleanse your soul?"

He shrugged, "I learned to turn that all off. I don't always rough people up, like you may think. I do reconnaissance sometimes or, ya know, trail after Miss Sunshine," he nodded towards you and you stuck your tongue at him. He smirked and his eyes darkened. You suddenly felt a little uncomfortable under his gaze and began to down more of your champagne.

Now, the dinner is over and you're sleepy.

You stand up and collect your things. Neither of you had to pay because the server told you that your father handled it. As the two of you exited the restaurant, Marc's hand went to your lower back as he guided you to the sidewalk.

"Did you drive here?"

You shake your head, "Nope. I took an uber. They should be here soon."

"Cancel it." Marc doesn't ask but demands.

You wave away his demand, "I'll be fine."

"Y/N," he gives you a warning tone, "Cancel. It."

You glare at him and say with as much ferocity, "Make. Me."

He swiftly pulls your phone from your grasp and you're immediately trying to get it back.

"Wah-hey! Marc! Give it back!" your pleads are deaf on his ears as he manages to unlock your phone, go to the Uber app, and cancels your ride. As soon as he does so, he pockets your phone.

On cue, the valet drives up with Marc's car, "Get in." He opens the passenger door for you and waits.

You sigh in defeat as you climb into his Rolls Royce Cullinan. He closes the door behind you and hands the valet some cash before thanking him and getting in.

He snorts when he sees you checking out his car, "What's wrong?"

"Didn't expect you to have a car like this."

"Seatbelt on," he reminds you. After he sees you buckle up, he explains, "I never had anything super nice. Figured since your dad paid me so well, I'd buy a nice car."

"You seemed like a Tesla guy to me."

"Fuck Tesla," Marc says and that makes you laugh for some reason. His own smile makes a way on his face and he quickly glances your way before focusing back on the road.

A part of you wants to compliment his smile but...is that weird? Is it weird to tell your future fiance that you're being forced to marry that his smile is nice? Maybe?

Too many mental gymnastics made you eventually decide not to say thing. The rest of the ride is silent, but not an awkward or tense silence like before dinner started.

He doesn't say anything until the car rolls up to your apartment building. He quickly rushes out and helps you out, guiding you to the door, where your doorman, Stan, opens it for you.

Before you enter, you turn to Marc, "Um, tonight was...nice?"

He nods, "I know this is gonna be hard for you. But I would like to be friends if we're marrying each other."

"Right. Yeah, that-that makes sense."

"You'll probably be seeing more of me too."

"Of course," you're suddenly unsure of what else to say Marc and he could probably sense this.

"Good night, sunshine. Sweet dreams."

"Yeah, thanks. You too." you give him a small wave before walking into your building. Through the window, you watch him drive away.

When you're finally in your apartment, you get into your jammies and launch yourself into bed. You recall how tonight and...wait...why do you feel all fluttery inside???