#wild or four-legged/winged pals | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

muffindaddystyles · 4 years ago

Note

prompt 1 with older brothers best friends!harry 👀

1. “Everyone keeps telling me you’re the bad guy.”

8. “I said stop staring at me.”

23. “I have a name and it’s not sweetheart.”

Third wheeling could never be fun. Not when you’re basically not even a wheel but an invisible person on a vacation watching couples kiss and yada yada.

“For fuck's sake.” Y/N grumbles changing a side snatching the blanket that got stuck under her and sandwiches her face into a pillow when she hears the steel roof atop her creak furiously accompanied by high pitched obnoxious moans.

Y/N's brother brought her along to their Italy trip, his wife’s bestfriend and his own bestfriend tagged along too leaving only Y/N to grump about their wild sex rendezvous.

She’s sleepless, homesick and probably about to get a stomach bug for living in yacht for four days atleast!

What’s so fun about jiggling in your sleep? None perhaps and the waves crashing at night that threatens you to swallow you down to the pit of ocean --- my pal, nothing is entertaining about it. Atleast for Y/N. She’s more of a hill station going person with her pup Frankenstein that oogles out from his small globe like window, comfy in his lil bag that Y/N moves around on her shoulders everywhere.

When the fracas of whatever’s taking place up doesn’t comes to halt, Y/N had enough, she isn’t very versed in coping with such situations since her dorm-mate is very nice.

So, she’s throwing the lid away to pop her head through the square like space and spreads her elbows up the roof, “Aish.” She immediately covers her eyes upon the sight of his brother and his wife doing it.

Their expressions comically panicked as they embarrassingly scrambles to clutch the flimsy sheets over them.

“Who does it all naked under an open sky?” She squeaks out, feeling her pulse tick and she peeks out towards the darkness from the slight gap of her fingers which are barely helping her avoid the scene that’d haunt her for life.

“Them bunnies and monkeys, ‘n many of our kind, Sweetheart.” She rolls her eyes at the familiarity of deep slow rumble that’s a bit slurred, probably from the Tequila they took with them. The voice never fails to froth bubbles in Y/N's tummy and it always involuntarily makes her nails dig into her palms.

Harry and Tina’s bestfriend went out to roam around Italy, or they told so and Albeit Y/N very well knows their intentions were more to exploring the city she didn’t butt in.

“I’ve a name and it’s not, Sweetheart.” She dismisses him with a grumble and his smirk shines through the shadow aggravating Y/N to an extreme she slips down shutting the door (like lid) at the them.

Harry Styles. Y/N's brother’s bestfriend. He’s everything Y/N loathes about. Bright green eyes, silken features and that dopey pearlish smile that makes everyone fall in love with him in nano-seconds.

To Y/N. He is an incubus. A witch that allures people without even knowing.

He’s a narcissistic asshole and Y/N's bad boy dream, unfortunately.

She hates herself for having a puppy crush on him for years now.

That friggin, Asshole.

He’s with everyone but her. It seems as if he’s getting stung by bees upon the mere closeness between them. A lamb ready to bite her down his stomach if she steps a foot near him.

At the moment when she’s sitting with her knees pressed to her chest, swollen eyes and puffy lips from not getting sleep last night.

She’s really hating that Harry looks so hot from the swim he just took as he dries himself sitting opposite to her. The droplets twinkling on his tanned thick body, his trunks wrinkled and bunched up into his thighs baring the tiger tattoo on front, his hair wet and oh so fucking tug-able – Y/N feels like Rachel from friends thinking all of that.

“Stop staring,” She mutters out loud when he wouldn’t stop licking the saltiness from his pink bottom lip keeping his intense gaze on her.

“What did y'say?” He pretends that we too engulfed in something else.

“I said stop staring at me.” Y/N grits. It’s annoying because it’s making her belly feel funny and loopy.

“The hills behind y'are just s'admirable.” He elevates his shoulders a bit panicked from inside and Y/N forced herself to not to twitch her eye when his chest muscles flexes due to his action.

Bamboozled she takes a glance from her shoulder to where he diverted his sight once she caught him. Her nose scrunched up and chin butted in disgust at the scenery, “That’s literally a heap of dead fishes!”

“Better than starin’ into a dead soul.” His lips down turned into a careless grimace and Y/N gasps out loud pushing the strands of her hair sticking to all of her face because of the breeze gush, “Why would you say that!?”

“’Cos you’re so mauve, that’s why?” He just wants to take a piss out of her. Nobody’s around and he’s finally getting time to talk to her even if it just to sit cross legged on her nerves and sip tea.

He’s actually lying. He thinks she’s more than mauve. She’s all those colours that usually macarons have, all those hues that butterflies wings have and all those tinctures that one find in gems then keep them safe.

She’s the colour he misses in his life.

“And you’re so fucking blue!” She grumbles and that slithered a deep wicked smile on Harry’s lips, “Like this deep ocean yer afraid of?” Her eyes widens at that and she almost lunges on her knees.

How did he know? Ofcourse, he'd. He’s everywhere. In every damn picture of wherever they went for recreation.

“I’m not.” She scoffs, her tone inconvenient and hazy as she shrinks into herself.

“Then take a dip,” She wishes that she could wipe that beautiful stupid smirk off his gorgeous stupidly lame face.

“Kiss my ass.” She spat out throwing a cushion towards him that lands on his lap, “I’d love to.” He barks out a laugh that rings through the waves.

“You’re such a stinky asshole.” She hits him with another that dumps against his chest, “Ow!” He feigns hurt with ridiculous comical expressions and throws the cushion back towards her which she successfully dodges, but, it falls behind her into the water.

“Shit.” She complains ducking around the edge of the yacht and stretches her arm to the plausible extent to grab the floating cushion.

Though when the tips of her toes leaves the seat she was on and she’s bending too much for her own sake Harry’s standing upright, “Hey stop —-" But. It’s too late as with a high pitched squeaky shriek Y/N's rolling first and falling into the water leaving Harry frozen for a second.

Panic chokes her throat and she moves her limbs around everywhere splashing water vigorously. Mouth gasping for oxygen but all that comes is salty water filling her mouth and lungs too, maybe as she sinks deeper and deeper.

“Fuck, Y/N!!” He shouts out jumping to save her immediately knowing she doesn’t know how to swim and he’s wrapping his palm around her neck and pulling her from her waist to himself under the water as she watches him with frightened fading eyes.

He comes back to surface quickly and presses her to his chest. She too clings to him for dear life feeling herself drift into a state of unconsciousness and hard to breath while he grabs the deck and lifts her with himself to it.

He doesn’t risk a chance and lays her limp body down and clasps his hands together pushing them against where her heat beats feebly, winces when she spurts out water painfully.

“Baby...fuck.” He pats her soaked pale cheek anxiously when she still remains unresponsive to him, breathing wearily so he does what has to be done.

He grabbed her chin, squished her cheeks making her lips pucker out and wrapped his mouth around hers sucking the water out and spat it out once his mouth was full.

His eyes slip shuts and he slumps with relief when Y/N coughs out loudly into his chest and he brings her into him murmuring assurance into her wet hair.

“You’re okay darling,” His whisper wavers from the trembling of his lips and his fingers divots into her softest of skin when he hugs her tightly, “’M sorry ‘s me fault, Sweets.” He rubs the bridge of his nose to take the sniff of her scent to calm him down and she shakes her head unable to talk, hands bunched up against his tummy.

“You should rest, yeah?” His gaze soft with care and it’s baffling for Y/N that he ever had this side too. Before, she could be on her feet he slipped his strong arms under her and hoists her up and into him without any trouble.

If Y/N wouldn’t be feeling very droopy and breathless she sure would have fought with him, maybe blushed and hid her face into his neck but she’s already knocking out in his arms from the stingy feeling in her eyes that made her super duper sleepy.

Clouds. Y/N's merged into them and they cover every inch of Y/N, wait where am I? She feels real nice comforted around with such warm bedding and she sure knows it’s not hers. The blurry sight infront of her is enough to aware her and a perfectly calloused hand comes rubbing her shoulder when she tries to sit up.

“Not heaven, o'summat.” He chuckles airily. His smile small and a tad awkward, he’s changed into another pair of trunks that are yellow and his upper half now sadly is covered from a blue tee.

“How you feelin'?” Y/N let his question fly over her head and stutters out loudly, “Why you being s'nice to me now?” It etches a frown on his face but soon it vanishes into an expression that Y/N couldn’t pick point.

“You’ve always been such a meanie...” She murmurs glumly. White sheets tangling around her torso as she moves infront of him – their knees touching.

“I umm –-...like you, I guess?” He has never been this nervous and jumblish with words.

“You guess?” She asks and scared that he missed up he rushes out to hold her and to make her believe that his feelings are true.

“No, no! I’m sure. I like you very much.” That puts Y/N into silence where she stares the gleaming jewels onto his fingers and ponders over what he said.

Harry Styles. Her first kiss. Her very first candy love crush and her dream of bad boy actually likes her back.

She tries to ignore the party poppers going inside her body and the drums of happiness rolling around her heart.

“But ... Everyone keeps telling me you’re the bad guy,” She doesn’t meet his eyes smoothing out the crinkles of sheets and her palm halts immediately when Harry hooks his thumb under her chin and raises it gaze lovingly into her eyes with sincerity, “Just ‘cos I stole yer first kiss?”

He laughs out sweetly when she bobs her head vigorously, “C’mon we were just sixteen! I’d have made sure to tell y'to keep it safe fo’ your precious person if I knew back then.” His pupils gleaming with hope and a tinge of eagerness.

The next thing she said with a slight bubbly pout caught Harry off-guard and in awe that how to process what she said with so much liability and vulnerability.

“But you’re my precious person!!”

“Yeah, baby?” He grins with a dimple tutting in and grabs her small cold hands to pull her closer to him.

The sweet name shies Y/N away and Harry thinks she couldn’t be more endearing as he takes her soft looking puffy face in the warm embrace of his hands and bops their noses together.

“Then g’na make sure ‘m your last.” He murmurs feathering his lips to the corner of her mouth that flutters her eyelids like butterflies and she pants out for more with a sweet whine, “Shit. You’re still very candy like since I last kissed ye'.” He giggles stroking his thumb up her cheek and takes a lick of her jutted bottom lip.

“Harry....” She complains tugging his weary shirt, “Yes me baby?” He quips out with those fake surprised eyes he makes with raised brows and puppy gaze.

“Kiss me alre –—,” He's swallowing her words down with the tender smush of his lips against hers in a kiss that’s slow and comforting at first, hearing onto the noises that she creates from tasting him and it deepens into something ardent and red when Harry pulls her over his thighs and guides her arms around his neck.

Their foreheads comes touching. Their hearts in sync and beside eachother. Their tongues loving on eachother.

“Dunno if I could ever stop.” He whispers breaking the knot of spit that connects their mouths with the stroke of his thumb against her shinning lip and pecks that spot twice.

“Then don’t.” Y/N looses her brain cells and only butterflies to whoosh into her skull as she grabs his jaw never letting him go and kisses him harder and rougher this time.

She’s gonna be in oh so much love with this bad boy that’s such a softie for her and she knows that there’s no going back.

#IMMMMMM BACKKKK FINALLYYY #PLEASEEEEE FORGIVE ME MY READ MORE THINGY IS NOT WORKING #BAD BOIII HARRYYYY #harry styles smut #harry styles #harry styles blurb #harry styles prompts #cute harry #harry smut #harry styles fanfiction #fluff #harry angst #hsh #dom harry

263 notes · View notes

mayaflowerxs · 4 years ago

Text

STRAYKIDS AS PETS

(Hyung Line)

Pairing: skz x reader (gender neutral)

Warnings: fluff. Lots of cute moments.

Synopsis: How you and skz member meet and how it’s been going ever since. (Only dogs or cats as pets)

Chan:

Definitely a Golden retriever. You found Chan late at night, you and your ex boyfriend had gotten into a massive fight and you ran out the house to get a fresh breath of air. While you were walking, the sun had gone down and you ended up at the park. No longer feeling safe to stay out, you also didn’t want to go back to your ex’s place. As you bring your phone out to call your best friend, you kept looking around. Goosebumps trailing up your arm as the chilly wind blew by you. “Hey y/bsf/n, Me and him got in a fight again. I’m at the park and it’s really dark, come pick me up please?” While you were on the phone, you hadn’t realized the Golden dog start approaching you from behind. He had smelled you the second you stepped foot onto the premises. He’s been eating the scraps the kids leave by the tables. Seeing & smelling you intrigued him and he couldn’t help but want to get near you. “Thank you so much! Alright see you then.” As you hanged up, it had started to get pitched black, only the distant light of your neighborhood can be seen.

As you go to turn on the flash, it had flashed onto Chan. Squealing you fall off the bench and flat on your butt. Wincing as the sharp rocks scraped your palm. Chan immediately whines as he didn’t mean to hurt and scare you. With his nose, he nudged your palm for you to open it. Wanting to see how bad your injury was. “It’s alright buddy, see? No blood.” Chan breathes out, the sudden worry slowly dissolving. “You’re pretty cute.” You say as you go to pat his head. Chan couldn’t help but wag his tail, immediately feeling a strong connection between you and him. You knew you couldn’t leave Chan there and when there was no tag you knew you had to take him home. When your best friend came to pick you up, you guys went to the vet which was pretty hard since most of the ones near you were closed. No chip. Chan panicked when you put him back inside the car and started going to the route your best friend takes to get to her place. Not realizing that it was also the route the pound ends up at. Chan felt a strong wave of ptsd washing in and started whining. Barking and scratching the door. “What’s wrong buddy?” Howling as he nuzzled his nose in your neck, in a way begging you not to take him to the pound. That never happened. Now a year later you were in your small apartment with Chan. His bright blue diamond collar around him with his name shined brightly on it. Absolutely loves the time he has spent with you. Everyday is a blessing for him, he’s the comfort you always needed. When you wake up, he immediately gets up as well. When you go to work, he walks you to the door. Looking through the window until you drive out of your parking spot. Spotting you even when you guys are on the third floor. Making sure to park somewhere in his view, the last time you didn’t. You got a complaint about a barking dog 5 minutes after you drove off. When you’re sick, he uses his body heat to keep you warm. When you sleep he makes sure to not make as much noise to not wake you. 250/10 best boy.

Minho:

He’d be a Siamese cat. Now, now. Minho was actually a stray when you found him. His mother got killed by a coyote and his siblings were caught in a fire. He was the only one who survived and he was pretty traumatized, he was always wary with his surroundings and anyone really. Never trusted anyone or anything. When a pack of dogs started chasing him, usually he would fend for himself but given that he was outnumbered and had little to no energy. He used all that he had to run to the nearest house. Fitting himself through the small fence hole as the dogs barked at him. Baring their teeth at him, running inside the small vent the house had that led under the house. Staying there until he was sure no dogs were around. Feeling so tired, he had fallen asleep. He woke up when the slam of a car door was in his ear shot. Smelling the scent of chicken, he peaked his head out and saw you holding a bag of KFC, (if you don’t eat chicken or like KFC then imagine something else haha) His stomach grumbled as he licked his lips.

It’s been almost two days since the last time he had eaten. The rats he had caught had diseases and he really didn’t want to deal with infected rats much less, eat them. As you enter your house, you were engulfed by the hot heat pent up in your house. Opening the windows to let out the hot air and in the cool air, Minho slowly crawled out of his hideout. Peaking his head out to see inside your house. Instantly spotting the bag filled with the delicious chicken he craved dearly. He had a plan, while you were in the room. He’d go in, grab a wing and rush out. But it only backfired when he got in and got carried away by the great smell of the food. Not realizing you had closed the door and windows once cool air got in. Making your way over to the kitchen. Not even hearing your footsteps, he jumps when he hears your voice. Dropping the chicken in his mouth. “Uh...hi.” He hisses at you. Your guys first interaction was a mess. He hissed and threw his paw (with claws out & everything) at you. When you let him out, he quickly ran out. Running until he wasn’t near the house anymore. When he came to a stop, he felt this lonesome feeling in the pit of his stomach. The soft voice of yours ringing in his ear. He felt bad, you were being nothing but nice but he returned your niceness with hisses and scratches. By the next morning, you open your door to get your mail when you see him sleeping on your patio. After 5 months, he was officially named Minho. His grey collar around his neck with your address imprinted on it. Spending most of his time annoying the heck out of you. But you still love him. Sometimes his tree tower gets boring so he results in napping on your lap. When you’re not home he looks out the window. Smirking at the dogs who previously chased him. They’re the same stray dogs running around like wild animals while he had a home. He has amazing food, his water is always cleaned along with a litter box how cool is that?! And he has the best human to love him even when he was cold hearted to them at first. He really was glad that piece of chicken brought him a great home and human.

Changbin:

He’s a Rottweiler for sure. He met you at a dog park, his owner was a 7 year old girl. Terrible owner, she was in a family of seven. Four siblings who were very irresponsible and very ignorant. Poor parents, they were too nice which the kids took advantage of. While the youngest of the family was busy brushing Changbin’s thin fur very aggressively, he looked out to the other dogs. Wishing he was running around freely, ironic how they came to the dog park so he can run around freely and yet he still feels the same way as he always does when he’s back at home, encaged. Trapped. As he was looking at the other dogs, he saw one in particular walk in. Jumping in excitement as it’s tail wagged and looked up at its owner. When looking in the direction the dog was staring at. He froze in his spot. The most beautiful human stood there. As if an angel had appeared before him. Like his inner wild animal had just screamed, ‘MINE’ you really were one of a kind. He didn’t know what to do, but what he did know is that if anyone was going to keep wasting more of his time, it definitely would be you. The little girl got distracted when her mother had called her name. Using this distraction, he got up and jogged his way over. The male dog you came with had ran off in joy. As you were sat on the bench and smiling as Seungmin had joined his usually park pal, Felix. You didn’t realize Changbin had made his way over to you until he sat down in front of you.

“Oh! Hello there! Aren’t you a cutie?” You say as you scratch his chin. Changbin felt his heart flutter, getting up from his spot as he got closer to you. Nuzzling his head over your legs. He didn’t know what came over him, it was wrong. Especially when the human he felt so fondly of already had a pet. Changbin smelled the scent Seungmin left on you, he did all that he can to not growl at the thought of another dog scenting you. He knew that if Seungmin were to find out he would definitely not react nicely to a random dog scenting his human. But he couldn’t stop himself, he wanted you. He wanted to go home with you. Heck, he wanted to befriend Seungmin as well and become one big family. One could only imagine. But things did go for the better. Changbin spent most of his time with you and when you had to leave. You saw the family that pertained to Changbin. Seeing how annoyed the older kids looked and how much the parents weren’t doing anything to keep them from giving attitudes to the dogs that ran past them. You had enough when you saw the girl start tugging on Changbin’s collar practically choking him. Hearing his whines broke your heart. Walking over you got the attention of the parents. “That’s no way to let your daughter treat your dog like that. Don’t you see how much he’s hurting?” The parents already looked frustrated enough that their kids were being brats. The youngest started throwing a fit about how she can’t do anything right. Finally the father had enough and exploded. “You guys are all ungrateful! If this is how you guys are with him then you guys don’t deserve him.” Grabbing his lease and clipping it on his collar he walks over and hands it to you. “Keep him, please. He already looks happier with you, I know you’ll do a better job than we can ever do.” Walking off with his family. You stood there bewildered. Mouth agape, but to Changbin he was thrilled. Tail wagging as his mouth was wide, tongue out in content. Looking up at you with adoration. In the distance, Seungmin and Felix looked at the scene before them. A confused Min wondering what the hell had happened. Adjusting was a bit difficult for Changbin. Don’t get me wrong he loved every second with you but because he scented you over the scent Seungmin left on you. He didn’t exactly have a nice bond with Min. He couldn’t be in the same place as Min without him huffing and walking away. Over time, they had gotten closer. Getting used to the fact that they were now sharing their beloved human. Having the same interests, hobbies, and the number one common thing they shared of them all. The love they have for you. Very protective boy. Now when you guys go back to the dog park, he also befriended Felix. But after a while, he runs back to you and sits by your side. Glaring at any dog who dares get a bit too close to you. Nudging your leg when you scold him for being mean to the other dogs. Looking up at you with puppy eyes as a way for you to forgive him. You can’t resist his eyes and blow a kiss at him as you coo at his adorable self. ‘My human’ he thinks. The flutter in his heart still present.

Hyunjin:

He would be a Norwegian Forest Cat. In all honesty, Hyunjin hated your guts. He didn’t know why. Well actually he did. You see he was your grandmother’s baby boy. He was like her child and let’s just say he was SPOILED. You and your family are pretty wealthy. Most of your cousins grew up to be brats and think just because they have money they get to act however they wanted. Your mother although didn’t want anything to do with the family. Ashamed at how her siblings acted and how that affected their kids. The only family member she kept in touch was your grandmother who she loved dearly. Hyunjin had to face your cousins countless of times. They were either brats and hated his presence or wanted to break and shred his bubble and hug the daylights out of him. Either way, they never treated him properly. All the pampering the maids gave him each morning which was brush his hair, put him his nice outfit for the day. Give him a message and more, all went out the window once your cousins came to treat his relaxing day a living hell. So when you came to visit he only assumed you to be just like them. But your grandmother had fallen very ill. So he couldn’t worry too much about your presence, his only concern was his mama. That was until she passed away. He was devastated when he woke up and she didn’t. And if things couldn’t get worse, the day you visited was the day your grandmother had you promise to take care of her little Jinnie for her. You couldn’t say no to her.

But you were running out of ways to get Hyunjin to like you. Or to at least not to scratch the soul out of you. Not only was he grieving for your grandmother but he had to put up with what he thought was one of the many annoying bratty grand children. In the end, you gave up in making amends with him so you kept your distance. You couldn’t give him up and even if he hated you, you made a promise and you were going to stick to it. You tried to stay out of his way most of the time. Waking up early before he did, you cleaned his water and gave him his food. The fancy kind because your grandmother believed a ‘good’ boy like him deserved more than regular dry food. The money your grandmother had left, was given to you and a portion to Hyunjin as well. It was enough to not have you work for the rest of your life but that wasn’t you. You didn’t want to stop doing what you wanted to pursue simply because of money. You still wanted to go out and do what you loved. So yeah, you kept busy. And when you got a promotion, you had less time spent at home. Hyunjin should’ve been glad. Well, he was. That was until he heard you outside. Peaking through the window he saw you crouched down. Helping a stray cat who pretended to look very ill. Cooing at them, you fed them the last bit of your lunch. Rubbing their back as they purred. He couldn’t help but feel jealous. Why were you petting some random cat and not him? You were barely home and now that you are, all the attention is onto a damn cat that doesn’t live here. He knows it was wrong to think this way but he couldn’t help it. You weren’t the annoying brat he thought you were. You were this sweet angel that did nothing but try to make him feel as safe and comfortable as possible. When you entered the house, he felt himself frown when you completely ignored him standing by the door. You didn’t realize this but for the remainder of the day, wherever you went he sorta trailed behind you. Still keeping a distance. When you laid down on your bed, you heard his little meow just as he jumped on the bed. You stopped whatever you were doing and looked at him. Waiting for a hiss or bite about to strike at you. But it never came, instead he lend out a paw on your arm. No claws clawing your arm. Only the soft fur & pad touching your arm. Inching closer and closer, he climbed on top of you and laid there. You smiled softly at him. Hesitant, but pet his head softly. His tail wagging a bit as he took a nap on your chest. Maybe living with you wasn’t so bad. He still smelled the scent on that other cat so he didn’t forget in stretching so far out that every inch of your chest, stomach and neck got covered in his scent. That atta show that stray to stay away from his human.

#stray kids #stray kids imagines #stray kids scenarios #skz fluff #skz #skz hyunjin #skz scenarios #skz smut #lee minho #bang chan #lee felix #kim seungmim #han jisung #jeongin #seo changbin #hyunjin #skz imagines

223 notes · View notes

atc74 · 6 years ago

Text

Anything You Can Do

Square(s) Filled: Girl Power for @spnfluffbingo2019

Warnings: playground antics, flirting, fluff, ahhh, IDK, it’s fun! Implied sex as payment (it’s REALLY not what you think)

Summary: Jared opens his man-child mouth and it’s on! It’s a karaoke battle for the ages and the ladies are in it to win it! But, when this crew shows up, there are no losers!

Pairing: Reader x past OC, Rob x Reader, Jensen x Briana

Word Count: 4455

Written for: @spnfluffbingo2019

Beta’d by: @alleiradayne who was crazy enough to support this idea from the beginning and my dear @amanda-teaches, whom I would be lost without.

A/N: I wanted to do something really fun and who of us wouldn’t be up for some of this on a Friday night???!!!! All the songs were painstakingly chosen for reasons. There are also some shameless plugs for my boys Louden Swain.

Also a shout out to my friend Beth @brooksba, who took all the amazing photos found in the graphic below!

It was a rare convention weekend when all the guests showed up on a Friday. The green room was fuller than normal as Jensen, Jared, Rob, Rich, Briana, Kim, Y/N, Ruth and the boys from the band sat around shooting the breeze. The green room always had a relaxed and playful atmosphere and this time was no different.

“Oh come on! You cannot burp the alphabet!” Jared scoffed as Briana picked up a warm soda from the table and opened it.

“Why, cause I’m a girl?” she challenged him and the room exploded with the disbelief of all those in attendance that Jared dare say such a thing to her, or any of the women on the convention circuit.

“Well,” Jared looked around sheepishly, waiting for someone to help him.

“Nope. You’re on your own with this one pal!” Rich slapped him on the back. “You have awakened the beast.”

“I just mean, you’re little and…” Jared tried to come up with another reason. Christ, Gen was going to kill him when he got home.

“I may be little but I am fierce, Jarpad,” Briana grinned and chugged the soda. It wasn’t long before a symphony of belches in the form of the alphabet song erupted from her. “Anything you can do I can do better. I can do anything better than you.” She sang as she high fived Kim and Y/N.

“No, no, no. Not this again,” Jensen chuckled, shaking his head.

“Oh yeah! I am so down for this. And this time, a wager perhaps?” Rich went into full on emcee mode. “What do y’all say about a battle for the ages? A karaoke battle, if you will. It is Friday after all.”

“Yesss!” The women shouted.

“Winner picks the losers costume for the next convention?” Rich continued, knowing he had the ladies all in for this. “Fellas? You gonna back down from a challenge?”

“Hell no! I’m in!” Matt Cohen raised his hand.

“Yeah, I’ll do it. I mean, I am a professional,” Rob joined him, making eye contact with Y/N shyly across the room.

“Can’t leave my fearless leader in the wind. I’ll do it,” Mike Borja threw his proverbial hat in the ring, looking at the last three.

“Don’t look at me! I don’t sing!” Jared backed away slowly.

Jensen glanced to Jason, then back to the women, all with shit eating grins on their faces. “I’m probably gonna regret this, but okay. Jason and I are in.”

“Wait, how did I get wrapped into this? I’m not an idiot like Jared!” Jason defended.

“No, but you are a team player buddy and we need you if we’re going to stand a chance,” Jensen replied, looking to Briana with a wink.

“Splendid! The rules are simple. I, and only I, will pick your songs. No one else will know what you are singing but me. Now, go. Be gone. Out damn spot!” Rich grinned ear to ear as he pulled out his phone, making the most epic list of his convention career.

~*~

“Y/N, girl, are you gonna tell him or not?” Briana asked her pointedly when they got to Briana’s room to get ready for the Karaoke Party.

“Yeah, did you see the way he was looking at you?” Kim chimed in.

“You guys, I just ended a really bad relationship and he’s my friend,” Y/N said. “I don’t want to ruin what we have.”

“Then don’t. Just ruin him for all other women!” Ruth giggled.

“Oh my god Ruthie!” Y/N hid her flushed face behind her hands.

“And may I point out that you didn’t ‘just’ end that relationship. It’s been over for weeks officially,” Kim reminded her.

“And you gotta get back on that horse sometime. No time like the present I say!” Briana laughed.

“Come on, Y/N. You’re an overachiever! Just go out there tonight and be amazing; sing your rock song. This is real life, babe and if you’re lucky, you’ll get a leg up on him and he won’t know what hit him!” Kim encouraged.

“All’s fair in love and war and karaoke battles,” Ruth chirped. “This is how you’ll win the big one, Y/N, ready steady.”

“Okay, okay okay! I get it. Gosh, you all sure know a lot of their songs,” Y/N rolled her eyes as Briana dragged her in the bathroom to curl her hair.

“Aha! You know all the songs, too!” Kim shouted.

“Yeah, yeah,” Y/N smiled at Briana in the mirror.

“You’re gonna knock his socks off,” she smiled back.

~*~

“Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Friday Night Karaoke! Boy oh boy, do we have a special treat for y’all tonight! During some green room antics earlier, a challenge has been issued,” Rich paused, waiting for the audience to quiet some and let him finish his intro. “Tonight, with you good people as witnesses, will be a battle to battle all battles! The ladies versus the men

of Supernatural will battle it out for bragging rights right here on this stage!!”

The crowd exploded in cheers and applause. Rich drew a slip of paper from the bowl and the first few fans sang their songs to roaring applause. Briana, Kim, Rich, Rob and Matt all joined in on stage for the fun.

“Please may I get a warm welcome for Miss Y/N Y/L/N!” Rich announced.

Y/N walked through the curtain, kissing him lightly on the cheek and whispering in his ear. “I know what you’re doing Rich. I’ll get you back for this.”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about darlin’. Now go, sing!” Rich shooed her from his side.

The beat started and Y/N started rocking her body with its rhythm. “Yeah!”

“I’m coming up so you better get this party started!

I’m coming up so you better get this party started!

Get this party started on a Friday night

Everybody’s waiting for me to arrive

Sending out the message to all of my friends…”

The crowd was going wild, bouncing and singing along as Y/N worked them into a frenzy with her first song of the evening. If this was any indication of how the night would go, she didn’t care who won, she was having a damn good time, and she made sure the crowd was too as she finished her song.

“Well, well, well, I guess we really got this party started now!” Rich laughed, pulling another name from the bowl.

“Please give it up for Miss Briana Buckmaster!” Rich shouted as Briana walked forward.

Briana took center stage in front of the screen. She was holding her breath, praying Rich didn’t pick something lame. When the screen lit up and the music started, she gave it everything, knowing they had this shit in the bag.

“Step back gonna come at ya fast

I’m driving out of control

And getting ready to crash

Won’t stop shaking up what I can

I serve it up in a shot

So suck it down like a man

So baby yes I know what I am

And no I don’t give a damn

And you’ll be loving it up

Some days I’m a super bitch

Up to my old tricks

But it won’t last forever

Next day I’m your supergirl

Out to save the world

And it keeps gettin’ better…”

From the first word, the crowd was loving it and singing along with her. Jensen watched discreetly from the side of the stage, cursing Jared for opening his gigantic mouth, but loving the view. Man that girl could sing! And the way she moved…mesmerizing, and he couldn’t take his eyes off her. It definitely keeps getting better.

Briana finished off her song and Rich stepped up to announce the next name. “You know, Robby, we’ve been doing this for how long? Four, five, sixty years?”

“Oh about sixty I think, from how old I feel at the end of a convention weekend,” Rob quipped, the audience breaking out in laughter.

“And never, in all that time, has this next person ever, ever, graced us with his presence on a Friday night. Did you know that?” Rich asked Rob.

“Never, ever?” Rob repeated.

“Never. So without further ado, please welcome to the karaoke stage for the first time EVER, Mr. Jensen Ackles!” Rich stepped away, letting Jensen saunter on the stage. The crowd was deafening and could not believe that Jensen would not only attend the Karaoke party, but actually participate!

“Thanks buddy. Don’t make me make you regret this,” he chuckled as the music started and he shook his head. He looked to the side and made eye contact with Briana, a knowing grin on her face.

“Revvin’ up your engine

Listen to her howlin’ roar

Metal under tension

Beggin’ you to touch and go

Highway to the danger zone

Ride into the danger zone

Headin’ into twilight

Spreadin’ out her wings tonight

She got you jumpin’ off the track

And shovin’ into overdrive…”

Jensen was never one for karaoke, but loved to sing and did so with everything he had. The song, while not special to him in any way, held a new meaning after tonight. He looked out among the crowd and was energized by them.

“Out along the edges

Always where I burn to be

The further on the edge

The hotter the intensity…”

Jensen closed out his song with vigor, feeding off the fans, much like he does at a Saturday Night Special Concert. He tossed Rich his microphone and practically bounced off backstage.

“Robby, I think you know what I’m going to say,” Rich paused for dramatic effect.

“Rich, I might play God on television, but I don’t know what you’re going to say. I might actually be afraid of what you’re going to say,” Rob turned to face the audience, a knowing look on his face.

“Well Bobbo, we’re gonna turn it up a notch. Please put your dirty little hands together for the one, the only, Miss Kim Rhodes!” Rich roared and the crowd went nuts. Kim ran out onto the stage, a smile splitting her face from ear to ear. She was always a fan favorite at karaoke and Rich knew with the song he picked, this would be no different.

As soon as the music started, Kim threw her arms in the air and started stomping her feet along with the beat.

“County road two thirty-three under my feet

Nothin’ on this white rock but little ol’ me

I’ve got two miles till he makes bail

And if I’m right, we’re headed straight for hell

I’m goin’ home, gonna load my shotgun

Wait by the door, and light a cigarette

If he wants a fight, well, now he’s got one

And he ain’t seen me crazy yet

He slapped my face, and he shook me like a rag doll

Don’t that sound like a real man?

I’m going to show him what little girls are made of

Gunpowder and lead…”

“Come on! I can’t hear you!” Kim screamed. “Let’s make sure everyone knows we’re having a fucking good time tonight!”

“Well, it’s half past ten, another six-pack in

And I can feel the rumble like the cold black wind

He pulls in the drive, the gravel flies

He don’t know what’s waiting here this time

I’m goin’ home, gonna load my shotgun

Wait by the door, and light a cigarette

If he wants a fight, well, now he’s got one

And he ain’t seen me crazy yet

He slapped my face, and he shook me like a rag doll

Don’t that sound like a real man?

I’m going to show him what little girls are made of

Gunpowder and lead…”

The decibels were so high, it was a miracle anyone could hear anything after Kim finished, whipping the crowd into an even higher gear.

“Well, Kim really knows how to put on a show doesn’t she? You think she gets that from Zach and Cody?” Rich turned to Rob, who could only shake his head at his friend.

“I will end you Speight,” Kim’s voice carried through the PA system.

“Well Bobbo, I guess it’s your turn!” Rich quickly got back to business.

“Well this should be fun,” Rob commented, waiting somewhat awkwardly for the music to queue.

Now, the Black Crowes were a good band, a great band, but Rob wasn’t sure if this was the kind of message he wanted to send. But he undoubtedly knew it was exactly the message Rich wanted him to send.

“Baby here I am

I’m the man on the scene

I can give you what you want

But you gotta’ come home with me

“Girl, you have no idea how into you he is,” Briana cooed, her red lips just inches from Y/N’s flushed cheeks. “I couldn’t have picked a better song myself.” She just smiled, throwing her arm over her friend’s shoulders as she watched Rob work his magic on the crowd, and Y/N.

I have got some good old lovin’

And I got some more in store

When I get through throwin’ it on

You gotta’ come back for more

Boys will come along a dime by the dozen

That ain’t nothing but ten cent lovin’

Pretty little thing, let me light your candle

‘Cause mama I’m sure hard to handle now, yessir'am

Action speaks louder than words

And I’m a man of great experience

I know you’ve got another man

But I can love you better than him

At first Rob felt dirty singing this, knowing Richard’s intent behind it, but by the end, stealing glances at Y/N throughout the song, Rob threw caution to the wind. He ran to the side of the stage and sang directly to her. It was no secret to everyone that Rob had a giant crush on her. It was only lost on her. Maybe he could get her to notice.

Take my hand don’t be afraid

I’m gonna prove every word I say

I’m advertising love for free

So you can place your ad with me

Boys will come along a dime by the dozen

That ain’t nothing but ten cent lovin’

Pretty little thing, let me light your candle

'Cause mama I’m sure hard to handle now, yessir'am…”

Y/N was blushing furiously, her mouth agape as Kim and Bri led her backstage for her next song. She looked like she could use a stiff drink. Or two. Ruthie was headed out just as they walked in. She winked at Y/N and skipped behind the curtain as Rich called her name.

Ruth was a great entertainer and sang a fun filled rendition of Girls Just Wanna Have Fun, getting the whole crowd involved, even pulling a few fans up on the stage. Mike Borja even joined the fun, then followed it up with ZZ Top’s Sharp Dressed Man. The crowd went wild for Matt Cohen as usual when he came out rapping Macklemore’s Can’t Hold Us like a beast and Jason slowed it down a bit with Tom Petty’s I Won’t Back Down.

“We’ve got a few more songs for you good people tonight and I know I appreciate you letting these fools take over your karaoke party. Whaddya say we get Jensen back out here?” Rich addressed the screaming fans and it got even louder when Jensen made his way back through the curtain. “Oh Ackles, you’re gonna love this one!”

Jensen gave everybody the most epic bitch face that ever bitched when he realized what song was playing. But, ever the consummate performer, he rolled with it and knocked it out of the park in a way that only Jensen can do.

This hit, that ice cold

Michelle Pfeiffer, that white gold

This one for them hood girls

Them good girls straight masterpieces

Stylin’, wilin’, livin’ it up in the city

Got Chucks on with Saint Laurent

Gotta kiss myself, I’m so pretty

I’m too hot (hot damn)

Called a police and a fireman

I’m too hot (hot damn)

Make a dragon wanna retire man

I’m too hot (hot damn)

Say my name you know who I am

I’m too hot (hot damn)

And my band 'bout that money, break it down

Girls hit your hallelujah (whoo)

'Cause uptown funk gon’ give it to you

Saturday night and we in the spot

Don’t believe me just watch (come on)

Briana watched from the wings, her skin heating up as she watched Jensen dance his dorky self across the stage, high-fiving fans, slapping Rich on the ass and stealing Borja’s hat. He could never pretend to be grumpy for long, and she got the feeling he was loving the whole experience and getting closer to the fans that the normal concert allows.

Before we leave

Lemme tell y'all a lil’ something

Uptown funk you up

Uptown funk you up uh

I said uptown funk you up

Uptown funk you up

“You better go jump on that!” Kim pushed her out onto the stage just as Jensen made his way over to where they were standing. Briana stumbled right into Jensen, but he easily caught her with one strong arm and pulled her with him to center stage. Briana was never a shy one and she wasted no time doing her worst as Jensen finished the song out, his eyes never leaving her grinding body on the stage next to him.

Come on, dance, jump on it

If you sexy then flaunt it

If you freaky then own it

Don’t brag about it, come show me

Come on, dance

Jump on it

If you sexy then flaunt it

Well it’s Saturday night and we in the spot

Don’t believe me just watch come on!

“Well that was incredible wasn’t it? Watching two of the world’s most beautiful people get their freak on in front of a couple hundred people? But damn if it wasn’t a good time!” Rich laughed, his body rolling forward as Jensen and Briana made their way off stage. “Oh no Miss Buckmaster! You get that fine ass back here! Might as well bring him with.”

“Richie, can I at least pick?” Briana pouted, standing close enough so only RIch could hear her.

“Oh no sweet cheeks! The whole idea was for me to pick the songs!” Rich reminded her. “Besides, the ladies are totally killing it!”

“Yeah, we are!” she smiled. “Fine. Let’s do this.”

Briana killed Whitney’s I’m Every Woman, all the ladies coming out to join her, as they tormented the men, Jason even pulling Jared on stage, so he could see how they were getting beat down by a bunch of girls.

“Brother, it doesn’t matter the competition, women will win every day of the week and twice on Sundays,” Jason slapped him on the shoulder as he headed off stage. “I need a drink.”

“So Rich tells me I’m up for another one. Hit it Maestro,” Y/N smiled. The music started and she knew she had Rich to thank. This song had become her anthem. He had been a good friend and better listener over the last several months and she was grateful for him, grateful for all of them. She could never picture her life without the crazy family she had found.

“This is for every single one of you that has been through hell and came out the other side…like a Winchester,” she grabbed the microphone and readied herself.

“You know the bed feels warmer

Sleeping here alone

You know I dream in color

And do the things I want

You think you got the best of me

Think you had the last laugh

Bet you think that everything good is gone

Think you left me broken down

Think that I’d come running back

Baby you don’t know me, 'cause you’re dead wrong

What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger

Stand a little taller

Doesn’t mean I’m lonely when I’m alone

What doesn’t kill you makes a fighter

Footsteps even lighter

Doesn’t mean I’m over 'cause you’re gone…”

Y/N laughed as she danced around the stage, much like she did alone in her apartment or trailer. She finally felt like herself again.

What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger, stronger

Just me, myself and I

What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger

Stand a little taller

Doesn’t mean I’m lonely when I’m alone

Thanks to you I got a new thing started

Thanks to you I’m not the broken-hearted

Thanks to you I’m finally thinking 'bout me

You know in the end the day I left was just my beginning

In the end

Bouncing around the stage, Y/N closed out the song to a standing ovation and ringing ears. She had never felt lighter. She hugged Rich, giving back the microphone. “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome, but I ain’t done yet,” he winked at her. “Robbie, you’re up buddy!”

As soon as the title card hit the screen on stage, Rob groaned internally. The audience picked up the whistling for the first 45 seconds as Rob gave his best friend a piece of his mind, a smile on his face all the while.

“Rich! What are you doing? You totally set me up for this. I’m going to kill you in your sleep, just so you know!”

“Ohhh Bobbo, you’ll thank me in the morning and we both know it. Everyone knows it. Now focus and sing Axl!” Rich slapped Rob’s ass before ducking off stage. Rob looked around and caught Ruth and Y/N off to the side, slowly swaying to the tune.

“Shed a tear 'cause I’m missin’ you

I’m still alright to smile

Girl, I think about you every day now

Was a time when I wasn’t sure

But you set my mind at ease

There is no doubt you’re in my heart now

Said “woman take it slow, and it’ll work itself out fine”

All we need is just a little patience

Said “sugar make it slow and we’ll come together fine”

All we need is just a little patience (Patience)

Mm, yeah

I sit here on the stairs

'Cause I’d rather be alone

If I can’t have you right now, I’ll wait dear

Sometimes I get so tense but I can’t speed up the time

But you know love there’s one more thing to consider

Said “woman take it slow and things will be just fine”

You and I’ll just use a little patience

Said “sugar take the time 'cause the lights are shining bright”

You and I’ve got what it takes to make it

We won’t fake it, I’ll never break it

'Cause I can’t take it…”

Y/N left Ruth’s side and strolled to where Rob stood center stage, his hand wrapped tightly around the microphone, his eyes closed as he whistled the quick few notes. When he opened his eyes, he found her right beside him.

Little patience, mm yeah, mm yeah

Need a little patience, yeah

Just a little patience, yeah

Some more patience, yeah

I’ve been walking the streets at night

Just trying to get it right

It’s hard to see with so many around

You know I don’t like being stuck in the crowd

And the streets don’t change but maybe the names

I ain’t got time for the game 'cause I need you

Yeah, yeah, yeah but I need you

Oh, I need you

Ooh this time

Rob looked down at the end of the song, the ballroom booming with cheers and applause, to find Y/N’s hand clasped tightly in his.

“All you needed was a little patience,” she smiled up at him.

“If I can’t have you right now, I’ll wait dear,” Rob admitted, a blush creeping up his cheeks.

“Take it slow and things will be just fine,” she squeezed his hand and they rushed off the stage, only to be besieged by their friends.

“I knew it!” Kim threw her hands up in victory.

“Well that took longer than it should have,” Ruth giggled, sashaying back to the refreshments.

Y/N watched as Jared and Matt both slapped twenties in Jason’s hand.

“You bet on us?” Y/N asked, a mix of outrage and amusement as she looked among her friends, her hand still in Rob’s. His face was somewhere between pride, joy and shame.

“Hell yeah we did,” Jensen chimed in. “Now pay up Buckmaster!”

“I’m fresh out of cash, Ackles. Sorry,” she swayed towards him.

He grabbed her by the wrist, pulling her to him. “ I can think of plenty of ways you can work it off.” His deep timbre practically a growl before he kissed her.

Catcalls could be heard out on the stage no doubt. Rich poked his head through the curtain. “I missed it?”

“Told ya you would!” Kim hollered, holding out her hand. Rich, Mike, Y/N and Ruth all slipped her their payment. “Jas and I cleaned up. Come on folks, first rounds on us!”

“I guess it was a wager in more ways than one tonight, huh?” Rob chuckled, turning to face Y/N, a smile lighting up his face.

“Our friends may have bet on us, but I’m still a winner,” she grinned, lifting her chin to meet his baby blues.

“Yeah? How so?” he asked.

“Well, I’m pretty sure I got the guy, but I am still missing my winnings,” she stepped closer, mere inches separated them and she could feel the heat emanating from his lean body.

“What winnings are those?” he whispered, closing the distance even more.

“I still need your payment on the Buckles bet,” she reminded him.

“Oh yeah, what do I owe you again?” he feigned innocence.

“Let me think,” she murmured, wrapping her arms around his neck and pressing her lips to his in a sweet and slightly heated first kiss. “I think about a thousand more of those would be a good start.”

“Seems like a steep wager, Miss Y/L/N,” Rob quipped. “But I think I’d like to up the ante.”

“You’re on. Just remember, anything you can do, I can do better,” she giggled under his steady gaze.

“It’s going to be a fun weekend,.” Rob mumbled, grabbing her by the neck and kissed her harder this time, leaving her breathless and wanting more. He pulled away, her lips chasing his. “Patience, my dear. Just a little patience.”

Did you like it? The nicest thing you can do for a writer is reblog their work and tell them, and others, how much you like it!

58 notes · View notes

stagekiller · 6 years ago

Text

@craftedinsanity || Meme || accepting

DREARY HALLWAYS resonate with penetrating whirring of the mail cart. There's a pause, ever so often. Hardened rubber falls silent when the unhinged wheel sticks between Arkham's crummy tiles. Then, it begins anew; providing percussion to the choir of screams echoing from Screeching Sebastian’s cell. The only other cell in maximum security wing, purposefully housed near the jester’s in an attempt to deprive him of absurd luxury.

E-146's cell doors, meant to be sealed shut by means of heavy pressure, are wide open. The notorious criminal graces the mailman with a shrewd glimpse. Ginger brows quirk, mangled mouth twitches in a smirk. The hunched employee mechanically dumps a load of fanmail before the jester's door. He lingers a moment. When Jerome doesn't pay him much mind, the mailman walks away. The clown returns to scribbling atop a disheveled notebook to the sound of Sebastian obsessively chanting curses for his wife.

Soon, a tall shadow casts over Mt. Fanmail. Worn off white boots kick a few letters aside and a few give way to an avalanche. It’s a loaded pile, full of love confessions and drawings and little gifts that will go by unnoticed. He only tears them open if it will give him something to do. A peculiar shade of burgundy stands out; cursive writing adorns fine paper. Emeralds shine with curiosity.

“ I’M GONNA KILL ‘YA, YOU FUCKIN’ WHORE ! ”

In time with a desperate screech, gloved digits pinch the peculiar folder. Jerome returns to his seat with a kick to his step. He drops himself on the chair with a huff, clicks his tongues and puckers his lips, gaze never abandoning soft paper. It could be easily opened with the envelope left intact, but Jerome prefers to tear the side off. “ You go, Sebby! Get that bitch, get ‘er ! ” He steals a moment to call some encouraging words over his shoulder, eyes watching a stack of ripped yellowed notes being pulled out.

I still listen to the tunes you used to whistle.

Pause. Gaze widens when stumbling upon familiar handwriting. Jerome’s mirth diffuses, his expression sobering up instantaneously. Pinching the note with both hands, he brings it up to his nostrils for a whiff. Mature paper has soaked in the smell of coffee. Jerome closes his eyes. His mind paints a vivid image of a locked dorm room ( referenced from movies — he has no idea what these look like in real life ) He can trace the aftertaste of Jeremiah’s smell, subtle undertones tickling his nose. “ Hm-eeh ! ‘Miah, you lil’ weasel. ” Bitter chuckle is followed by a snort. Drawing a sharp breath, his fingers brace to rip the note apart.

I tried to do it too but it’s just not the same

The audacity. Blood boils. A mere rip is all he manages before a mix of bitterness, curiosity and well-buried glimmer of hope gets the best of him. What is he looking for in these pages, anyway ? It could be yet another lie, something his brother staged for the sake of attention alone. Oh, yes, Jeremiah loves to play with his feelings. Loves stringing him along, feeds off of earnest adoration; that traitor, that treacherous little minx. Fingers twitch with desire to feel his twin’s jugular pulsating wildly in his grip.

I met her today. She said you never mentioned me after I left. Part of me is relieved. That’s how it should be. so why does it hurt still ?

Ah, the sweet sting of betrayal. Lila sneaking out to meet up with her son behind his back. A pained chortle escapes him. Shoulders bounce with wry laughter. He tries to recall how liberating it felt to chop her plump tits, but somehow the memory feels plastic and distant; as if it never happened. It’s not enough. Foot taps the floor, a staccato that picks up the more he flips through his brother’s notes. Some of them carry stains. Jeremiah would never send him a stained letter. He’s meticulous like that. Clearly, he’d never meant for these to reach Jerome’s greedy fingers.

I wish we weren’t related. Life’s not fair.

Another bitter chuckle. He shakes his head this time. Without realizing it, both his legs are bouncing now. Back sinks into his seat, a wet glare burning into each word. Sebastian’s psychosis merely reaches his ears now. Muffled snickers spill as water from a tipped glass through his Glasgow grin; uncontrollable, erratic, explosive. Something bubbles in his chest and he ought to get it out, the only way he knows how. How cruel of his own blood to tell him now - NOW - when all is said and done, when he’s spent so long brooding and grieving and coming to terms with their tragicomic fate. Jerome seethes.

“ I WILL CHOKE YOU , SLUT, I’LL DRINK YOUR BLOOD ! ”

I miss you.

Breath hitches between bouts of blaring laughter. He has to pause, slam a hand on the desk beside him. Guards are staring from the corridor; watching him slowly come undone after each note. Eyes squeeze shut and the first few drops of warm liquid run down his cheeks. For all they know, some fan must have sent him a joke book, something blatantly hilarious. Sebastian continues to pour his heart and soul out, sentiment that will forever bounce around those clenching four walls. For Jerome, it only makes this funnier.

I’m sorry.

“ YOU’RE DEAD ! YOU’RE DEAD-YOU’RE DEAD TO ME ! ”

You’re not mine. I wish you were. I wish I could let you love me

Unhinged peal of laughter ends in a coughing fit. The jester folds over in his seat. Thick drool dangles from his scars. There’s several notes left, but one resonates in Jerome’s mind, repeating as a broken record. It takes a few moments for the unhinged peal of laughter to die down as the clown regains his composure in drawn out wheezing and raspy pants.

I hate me too

“ I WILL EAT YOUR HEART ! I WILL EAT YOUR HEART ! ”

Wild gaze regards the stack as it now lays on the floor, having slipped from his lap. A trembling breath is drawn through gaping mutilation. When Jerome speaks again, addressing his fellow inmate, his voice is a bit more scratchy than he would prefer it. A seething rasp, laced with painful adoration. “ Oh, me too, pal. Me too— pth-ha-hah! ” He only stabilizes long enough to utter that one sentence, then relapses in agonizing mirth.

#{ craftedinsanity }#💔 It was a monstrous love. And it made monsters of us all. || Jerome Valeska & Jeremiah Valeska//craftedinsanity 💔#incest //#You'd better not forget to clap! || {Asks answered}#// rip clownman's feelies

2 notes · View notes

hellohollydolly · 8 years ago

Photo

20 Things To Love About Our Albert Lea Community

im·prove·ment / noun. The action of improving or being improved.

1. We try hard, & we are persistent a bunch. We had the old Wal-Mart sit vacant for just a “few” years. Many whispers of new tenants floated around over time, & then one fine day last year, a 12 year lease was signed to Bomgaars. Thanks to efforts of Hoffman, ALEDA & I’m certain many other small & large working parts, shit got done, together. 2. The movement isn’t like wild fire, it’s more methodical. Wind Down Wednesday came to life about 5 years ago. Since then, it has grown & become a Summer event that’s marked on everyone’s calendar. It has spurred other events downtown, & continues to thrive. By hands, brains, time, & work of Albert Leans. Tami, Susie & everyone on deck thru the years, continue to break their backs on events like WDW because seeing Albert Lea thrive fills their hearts. When you really care, you take an active role.

3. Our restaurants are only as successful as their patrons make them, & we’ve got some awesome ones. Places like B&B, The Elbow Room, Taco King, 112 on Broadway, AND Crescendos have almost cult followings, I know this, because I “drink the kool-aid” from all of these places. These owners took chances on Albert Lea, took the leap, dove into OUR community head & heart first. In the first year of a restaurant business, they are more then 90% likely to fail. We know what we like, be it pancakes, tacos, or seared tuna, & thankfully they are just up or down the street! 4. A dog park! A splash pad! Holy crap! Sometimes the movement IS like wildfire. Sometimes people saddle up, grab the reigns & plow thru adversity for the better of the community. Sheila & others did this because our four legged pals needed to have a park for us to enjoy with them too! (In case you haven’t counted yourself, I think we are over 40 park/rec areas just in town!) And a freaking splash pad just around the corner for Summer?! The committee itself is filled with DOERS, but the outpouring of outside support has been an awesome example of what coming together can accomplish! I mean, there’s those tshirts & sweatshirts, that I know you either have a few of, or want a few of. And then there was a dunk tank, a 5k, & countless BIG donations. These things are perfect examples of needs being met. 5. LAKES! Please direct all excitement for our improvements in our local waterways to the fine folks down at the Shell Rock RWD, also, Laura & her crew with the Lakes Foundation. They are in the trenches, fighting for our water, YOUR water. 6. Oh, do you need something fun to do on the lake? The Boathouse has you covered! Canoes, kayaks, paddle boards for the Summer, & snow shoes in the Winter. Archery too! Scott has a passion for bringing new, different, & fun things into our hands. Could you imagine if everyone took that sort of initiative? In case all of those things listed above aren’t for you, there’s still ice skating, rock climbing, pickle ball, swimming, horse shoes, biking, tennis, fishing, ok, ok, I’ll stop...geocaching, roller blading, boating... you know, things you have to DO, actively. 7. There’s something going on every day, you just have to look. I’ve found the search for activities has actually gained me some pretty awesome friends, as well as activities. Did you know you can snag a game night weekly & monthly downtown at The Interchange & the Legion? Jenni always has her hands working on something for the kiddos thru the city, the theatre continues to expand it’s calendar beyond the great ACT performances, & volunteerism is a two way benefit, you could always try that, call Ann! 8. Our arts community is growing! Obviously the apple of my eye, the arts, are coming along beautifully! The feedback I get from families at my collective creative arts space (Meraki, yes that plug just happened), is a feverish “MORE”. Our families are flourishing, whether it’s guitar lessons, dance lessons (young & old), or our newly added cartooning courses. Our families did not just say thanks, they are asking for more. They are hungry, & this fuels my passion for fulfilling that need. Join me, in building our arts community. It’s in need of unity, but more so, it needs you. 9. Our streets are pretty! I’ve seen & heard the effort that has gone into making our downtown the beauty that it’s becoming. Through oppositions, & the normal set of barriers that change brings, it continues to get more friendly & glorious, from outdoor seating options at the coffee shop, Legion & 112, to all the blooming pots & colorful banners! It’s in the details, & sometimes we don’t appreciate how much time & money the little stuff takes! 10. Rock hunting; it’s a real thing Kari & Dori graced our community with this great, active, family AND budget friendly game! Anytime I see a painted rock hidden next to my studio door or by our flower pot, I smile. How many times has AL Rocks brought a little joy into your day? Probably more then you give recognition to! They saw a way to share joy & leaped at the opportunity to give it wings! 11. We’ve got a ton of really great community service peoples. You know at least 5 men & women that serve as a fireman, first responder, nurse, dispatcher, or policeman. They are real people, involved in countless other ways, besides the obvious, to help our community. Knowing that someone is just around the corner, any corner, willing to help with knowledge & heart, puts us all at ease.

12. Shred at the Skatepark I couldn’t find the birthdate of the skatepark, but over 10 years is a certainty. Anytime I drive or walk by the beach, there’s more action at the skatepark! This gives a place for our youngsters (how freaking old am I, that I’m using that word?!) to go and feel free. Not only a positive for the kids, but for everyone as they’re not tempted to trespass on other areas of town to get some boarding in. 13. Shop Local Yes, we don’t have the stores of Burnsville Center, BUT we do have fabulous clothing retailers that NO ONE else has, like Country Soule, Between Friends, & BG Loft. Toys R Us doesn’t hold a candle to the personal service Tami & her dolls will give you at Celebrations. The list goes on; Pet Authority knows it’s customers by name, The Color Wheel is filled with local artisan gifts & beautiful decor, and Junction Market allows us to pick up all our Pinterest-loving-ideas, without having to actually dip a brush in paint. 14. Our City wants feedback. It seems our city officials always have an ear to the ground, which is not as common as you’d think in other cities. They hold Mayor Mondays, & send out newsletters with events concerning citizens on a variety of levels, of the serious kind, or pleasure. You can even watch the council meetings on youtube from the comforts of your couch, if you can’t make the meetings in person. They care for their business owners, knowing that only together, can we do great things. 15. Everyone knows you, and that’s a good thing. I sometimes scurry out to Walmart or HyVee looking like quite the disheveled un-showered human, and ALWAYS run into at least 3 people I know. But I find comfort in that. There’s no cloak of mystery here, people I sit in professional meetings with during the week, are the same people I run into at Harold’s having a few beers on a Friday night. You can be real. People here really get to be themselves, & you’re never really alone. 16. Evolution of the mall. Remember not that long ago when Skyline was the dead zone for retail space? And now, it’s pretty cooking!? Yes, Northbridge has seen brighter days, but malls in general are having to completely evolve in order to make it “work”. I have no fear that over the next 10 years, it will get it’s groove back into something better then before. Showing patronage to the current stores doesn’t hurt either, so go grab a tan, get your nails done, then sip a margarita (or two), & catch something on the big screen! I feel like that could be a fun afternoon, add that to the activities list! 17. Area small towns, call this their town too I grew up in Alden, and I know anyone from Glenville, Geneva, Hartland, etc. will all say the same thing when you’re 50 miles from home and asked “where are you from”, response: “Albert Lea”. I mean, it’s where we get groceries, where we come to get our hair done, when we’re sick we come for help, it’s all of ours. That’s what community means.

18. 30 under 40 Our community is at the cusp of something pretty awesome right now, the next generation is stepping up, planting roots, investing in us. I know this, because my husband & I fall into this category, and so do a lot of our friends. While there will always be people, young AND old, that will shit on the work of others, we’ll still be here working our tales off for the better of the world. Millennials aren’t so bad, neither are the Generations Xers, or Baby-Boomers, there’s just rotten eggs in any age group. It’s our job to put our heads down, & keep putting in the work, together.

19. Perspective can alter the course of everything. While in the last few years I’ve found myself back on this soap box, my guilt is lessening each time I start to type or speak. No I don’t think it’s necessary to rebuttal in the effort I have here, every single time, but I do think the opposition to Albert Lea shaming needs to be felt at every negative word or comment made. Being silent, when someone is being bullied, has equal the damage. Stand up. Be proud. Make your voice be heard. Do great things here.

20. If you leave, you’ll most likely be back....I did. I graduated high school, was around for a year or so, and then took off to the cities. I stayed up there for about 3 years. I loved my job, but in the end, I couldn’t find a decent space for myself & my Louie dog to stay, so I came back. I was uncertain how I felt about it, but I did know, I always called it “Home”. And it continues to feel more like mine, each day I’m here. Each time I glance out my office window and see families walking the lake, or neighbors going to grab a bite to eat on their lunch break together. As the wings of Meraki catch flight, I realize that in order for it to be Meraki, it needed to be here. This is home. I chose it, & in return, it chose me.

#iamalbertlea

11 notes · View notes

dawnfletcherstuff · 8 years ago

Text

The sky was gray, rumbling in the distance as a faint drizzle began above the outskirts of Sylvanas Town. Two figures walked side-by-side – the taller of the two being a blood elf sporting an especially fancy pair of sunglasses to complement some rad horns as well as a split felstalker bone mask around his collar. On his back was a small brown satchel of books that bounced precariously over the two vibrant pink draenite axes that were hooked onto his hips. Between his blonde pompadour and his odd vest, it was clear that this fellow was one odd customer indeed! That said, the man walking beside him was equally unusual- Lush hair with small, dark mushrooms growing in it was the perfect accentuation to this necrolyte's jaw of solidified shadow and five glowing ochre eyes. For that matter- his arms were a hybrid of shadows and vines.

The two, Armaleonis and Canthar, respectively, plodded forward through the gray mist, looking ahead, determined, but in good spirits, both smiling as they traveled West. As the Amani crypt colloquially known as the 'Tomb of Mystery' drew closer into view with every step, the rumbling in the sky intensified, leading the friends to hasten their pace to the unconventional shelter.

It was much darker in the tomb than it had been the last time- no loa-magic lanterns, no torches or even glowing mushrooms- further, it was silent, save for the slow dripping of a water leak deeper in. Had something happened since their last visit? The atmosphere was completely different, that much was for certain. While some might see an attack that nearly cost the pair their lives as undesirable, there had been some good company, at least. This time, however, it truly lived up to its nature as a graveyard. The two looked to each other, confused as they began to explore. “HEEEEEEEY!” Arma yelled into his cupped hand, pointed toward the deeper interior of the stone catacombs. “WHERE YOU AT, MUMMY DUDE?” Turning, he flinched a bit when he saw Canthar's displeased expression. With five eyes, the necrolyte could give a withering glare that may very well have been able to kill the recipient.

Before Canthar could get the opportunity to give his opinion on the matter, there was a long, agonizing wet noise that culminated in a thud behind them. They turned instantly, looking at what appeared to be a troll mummy in the dark. “Oh, S'tanky, you scared us.” Canthar said, breathing a sigh of relief- that is, until their eyes adapted to the low light and they realized what they were looking at was no troll mummy. It was some sort of creature that most closely resembled a jellyfish, bending itself into a trollish shape. Its body was rippling and swirling as a kaleidoscope-like rotation of colors and patterns quickly emanated from its goopy form, along a cloud of pheromones of some kind. The patterns were quick, even at the start, but at least they had some sort of sense- lines, colors- they began to move at a speed that made all of Canthar's eyes spin. While wordless, there was an undercurrent of chanting in some odd pseudo-language that accelerated as fast as the patterns upon its flesh. The two had no chance and everything went black.

Armaleonis awoke in a cold sweat in the most comfortable bed he could ever remember sleeping in. He tilted his head as he wiped his eyes and yawned. Yeah, that was a bed. His bed? Wasn't he just in a tunnel or something?

He yawned again, gently tapping his forehead as he tried to make sense of the world. It was too early for this, he concluded. He lay himself back down and pulled up the covers, determined to look into it after another...oh, five minutes or so.

“WOOOOORF!”

He was not going to get that extra five minutes. On the one hand, he was mildly annoyed that he had to wake up at this moment, but on the other, he recognized that bark- the owner of which came running into the room with a wide open mouth and lolling tongue! “Roland!” Arma cried out, grinning as he sat up. Most people would have flinched when a giant timber wolf with rusty red fur leapt onto their bed and snuggled them, but not Armaleonis! No, he gave the big lout the biggest dog hug that he could manage. “I've missed you so so much buddy. Man....” “WORF!” The wolf was looking down at him as though he were crazy. Arma leaned back and looked at the big beast and canted his head, as though expecting Roland to explain himself. In that moment, however, the wolf hopped down, made a sharp “Yip!” of urgency and ran out of his room, turning to yip at him again when he was slow to follow. Scratching his head, Armaleonis got up and followed his four-legged friend, who led him through a home that was bigger and more beautiful than any he remembered. Everything fell into place, however, once he passed the West Balcony- and was able to look into a star-filled sky that looked onto the Twisting Nether with alabaster bolts of lightning that tore across the sky. “This is...home?” He said, tilting his head. Another, slightly annoyed yip down the hall reminded him that the wolf was not the patient type, and thus the young blonde elf had to run to catch up. As he did, he found himself entering a forum, in the center of which there was a small series of tables- and most notably, two figures with food on their plates- as well as a third plate! Squinting, he could recognize them- even if his brain took a few moments to catch up- The black haired woman with her hair in a bun and the beige regal priest robes was none other than his mother, and the blonde man in sharp red and gold civil attire was his...father? He looked more closely at his father, head feeling like it was swimming through murk. Don't I have a Dad and a Not-Dad?

He tried to figure this out for a couple moments before his father got up and started walking toward him with a smile.

“You coming to eat breakfast with your old man and your mother or are you gonna stand there til sunset, Leon?” When Armaleonis canted his head a bit, it looked on the one side like his father's hair was scruffy and cut short, but when he looked at him straight, it was as though his hair was perfectly in order and long. He shook it off, chalking it up to not being a morning person, and made his way over to the table, sitting down at the third seat. Roland was sitting next to his chair. He was a good boy. The best boy. His mother leaned on her left hand with a smile. “We thought you weren't going to be up til tonight with how hard you partied last night, Leon. You really ought to thank Roland- at least ONE of you remembered your date with that Ezekiel boy.” Armaleonis tapped his chin. “Ezeki.....Zeke?”

Suddenly, everything made sense to him! His face went red and he put his hands on his cheeks in near panic! “OH NO I'M GONNA BE LATE TO MY DATE! AAAAAAGH!” He immediately jumped up, grabbed a piece of toast, put the corner of it in his mouth and ran to his room to change.

His parents laughed as Roland looked on, panting in what may have been the canine version of a laugh.

As he rapidly changed from his heart-print pajamas into his favorite outfit- a long-sleeved shirt with a fantastic V-neck and fancy ruffles as well as ruffled wrists with slacks and sandals, something struck him as he looked in the mirror.

His eyes. They were...aquamarine.

Something about my eyes...they don't....well, I do have nice eyes.

He flashed himself a grin and nommed a bit of his toast. Mm, cinnamon. With a fist-pump of excitement, he leapt onto the railing and surfed it down to the ground, where he landed with a triple-flip. He waved to his parents and Roland with toast still in his mouth as he ran out to meet his date not too far from home!

Wy tidd feal zmy ydypylzid darvw za ittyez zmuw witruouty, za qujy zmy fdzupizy pyrth ul zmy flylvulq vryip. Gujy zmywy zsa zmy gryiz dirc myrth!

Armaleonis scratched the back of his neck, squinting for a moment. “What was that?” He looked around as he walked, but nothing seemed to be making that noise. He shrugged it off, dashing to meet his date! The tall sin'dorei who was waiting for him was the ultimate ideal of cool- his hair was both wild and expressive, black as night and yet the style was all natural- no hair products necessary! Two large wings stuck out of his back and the lime green tattoos that were on his body, as well as his wicked horns and dragonlike tail swishing behind him made it clear that he was something exotic- a demon hunter! Arma bit his lip, nearly jumping in place, excited to see his date and friend. He didn't know what to say, and luckily, didn't need to say anything as Zeke hugged him firmly.

“You're late, y'know.” The demon hunter couldn't help but snerk at Arma's nature, even if he was late. “Good thing I like you that much, huh?”

Arma's face was completely red as he gave the goofiest grin, fiddling his thumbs together. “W-well, yeah! Yeah! I owe you one! Yeah! So where did you have in mind that you wanted to go?” Zeke tapped his thumb to his chin and shrugged gently. “I was thinking we'd go to a nice place to look at the stars. I know you're gonna wanna stop by to check on your best pal on the way, though.” Armaleonis blinked a few times before nodding rapidly. “Yeah! Oh my gosh, you think of everything! That's why you're the best!” He then tapped his chin. “Well I mean you're the best for a bunch of reasons, from your considerate nature to your confidence and sense of humor and the fact that you're incredibly attractive and are a lot more wise than me and like spending time with me and such.” He babbled a bit, completely redfaced. Zeke merely rubbed the top of Arma's head and led the way. It didn't take long for them to get to their first destination- a large mansion with what looked to be a purple phoenix-print for the door. Tilting his head to look at the yard, he saw a young man who couldn't have been much older than himself practicing dance moves in the backyard. Recognizing him, he waved frantically. “PURPS! OH MY GOSH PURPS! PUUUUUUUURPS!” He waved, jumping up and down for visibility. His date couldn't help but snicker at his enthusiasm.

Across the fence, the young man froze up when Arma cried out, but instead of looking embarrassed, made a beeline right for the gate and opened it at a brisk pace, waving at Arma in return.

“LEON! HEY! BUDDY! PAL! BUD! MY BEST FRIEND! HEY!” His pal, Purps, was looking extra nice today- definitely alive, for starters. His hair was almost fuschia and he had the biggest grin on his face. “I am so glad you stopped by!” He said, hugging Arma gently.

Armaleonis returned the gesture and looked his best pal over. “You are looking really healthy and happy! I'm so glad that you're in one piece and have never fucked my father which means it's okay for me to have a mild attraction to you but not too much because I am your best friend and brotherish figure sort of it's weird but bear with me I'm glad you're you and that's what matters!” Purps nodded. “Yeah man! That's exactly right! Hey, I would love to stick around, but I'm gonna have dinner with my folks! They just got back from a trip and they missed me a whole bunch! I'll hit you up later, okay?” Armaleonis flashed Purps a thumbs up. “Tell me how it goes man!” And with that, he turned toward Zeke with a grin. “Man, you are the best! You made a great day even better!”

Kyye afr witruoutyw kaflv za zmy kditc pyrth! wy'ry qaulq za witruouty zmy aly lipyv cilzmir ourwz!

Armaleonis blinked a few times. Did Zeke say that? Nah. Couldn't have been. The two made their way to their favorite hilltop and lay down together to look at the stars. Getting comfortable and snuggling together with Zeke, Arma smiled.

“This has been the best day ever. I don't know why, but everything just feels...right. I mean, I feel comfortable here with you, and we got to visit my best pal Purps, and my parents are happy together, and I'm healthy and....man. I'm so lucky to be here with you.”

Zeke looked at him warmly and gently brushed a stray hair away from in front of Arma's face.

“This can go on forever, you know.”

Something about his voice sounded off, but Arma did everything in his power to not care. He was happy. This was all that mattered. This was...his perfect world.

As he was lost in thought, something blocked the stars. Shaking his head, he recognized it once his eyes adjusted- it was Roland. Gently moving the wolf out of the way, he sat up and looked into the wolf's eyes. The beast looked at him with a gaze that said everything, wordless as he was.

“Something just ain’t righ...oh Light. You...you died a while back, didn't you, buddy?” Arma asked, breath suddenly tight in his chest. Those eyes looked like they were apologizing to him, grateful to see him, but with a dire warning. The wolf gently set his head on Arma's shoulder and whined.

Gyz zmy clujyw ryivh! wuzm zmywy, sy sudd kulv Canthar za zmy bdulv ezyrluzuyw vorv qiul qryiz easyr!

Armaleonis looked up- it was as though, beyond the stars, in the sky, there was some sort of glass dome over his world that he could now see through. He saw several troll cultists standing overhead, knives drawn above his pal Canthar.

Dream-Zeke's hand gently rested on his shoulder.

“You don't have to go. We can be here, forever.”

Armaleonis looked to Roland.

“What do...I have to do?” He asked the hound tepidly.

The wolf gestured with his head to a shadowy area not too far away, where, when Arma squinted, he could see the form of Ghar'bygg, and behind him-- the demon hunter who made him truly feel fear. Arma took a sharp breath and lowered his head.

“You've done enough for everyone. Don't you think that you deserve to be the one that gets rescued? You don't need to suffer any more. Think of all the good things you've done- you don't need to take that shitty life back!” Dream-Zeke looked more upset than Arma felt, and that was an accomplishment.

Softly, Armaelonis took Zeke's hand off his shoulder and stood up.

“I want nothing more than that.” He said quietly, before looking up at the troll cultists. “But it's out of my hands. I wouldn't be the person you love if I didn't do the right thing. I'm gonna miss you.”

Taking a step forward, he gave the timber wolf one last hug. “You're the best dog a man could ask for.” He was crying now, holding that wolf and trying to lock it into his memories.

Slowly, he got up and walked toward Ghar'bygg, the hound demon. His hound demon.

Someone was about to have a very, very bad day.

As he approached, the form of the felstalker shrank into a red and black orb that hovered in the air in front of the silhouette of the Illidari monster that hurt him. Arma looked up at that monster defiantly and grasped the felstalker essence and closed his hands around it, taking it into his true self.

In a flash, his world was pure agony as he felt every Illidari memory he had been trying to run from at once- and the physical transformation ripping him to shreds- felstalker tendrils ripping out of his back, the mask forming on his neck, the tail jutting out from his spine- and the loss of his true eyesight.

And it was that pain that woke him up with a shriek.

–

The Twilight's Hammer Cultists hadn't intended to run into two adventurers in their looting of an Amani catacomb, but they were all too eager to unleash a new variant of Faceless One upon them- the Dark Mercy- a creature that would entrap its victims in their own fantasies. They had drawn their daggers to sacrifice their new victims, only to be interrupted when the blood elf roared back to life and covered the two cultists standing over him in shadowflame. They turned and ran, but were too slow. The demon hunter gave them a thrashing they would never forget, leaving them holding onto life by mere threads, before picking his friend up and carrying him back to the town they called home.

-Fin.

#ShortStoryPractice #Armaleonis #Arma #PerfectWorld #WoW #BlindedFate

1 note · View note

redscullyrevival · 8 years ago

Text

Dragon Haven: Rain Wilds Chronicles Rundown

@sonnetscrewdriver

Plot/Narrative/Setting

This was a fun time! HAHAHA

Okay, so with Rain Wilds it feels like a... I dunno, less extreme Liveship Traders or a less emotional Fitz and Fool? It isn’t lesser but it’s certainly different, and I think a lot of that has to do with the pacing. Rain Wilds is much faster - an advantage of switching narrative view points more often.

And since this wasn’t the setup book, Dragon Haven raced forward at a break neck speed (for a Elderling book anyways).

As such there has yet to be any long wallowing plot lines; most things propped up in the first book have been resolved or half resolved within this second book and there are two more books to go.

Amazing!

I love a slow burn, don’t get me wrong, but with such a big cast and a story devoted to travel it would have been agonizing to have Sedric and Alise and Leftrin and Jess circle each other and misunderstand each other one book after the other.

The keepers are changing faster; the characters are evolving past their starting perspectives quickly; so the story moves with agility. I like that narrative mimesis.

How about that stuff about rules though? Elderlings is all about CHANGE yes yes we know, but this series’ discussion of CHANGING RULES is an interesting avenue to wander.

The most obvious moment of EXPLAINING RULES was Jerd’s miscarriage and while it is a scene that seemingly plays straight forward it isn’t really about anything straight forward.

Its one of those scenes where you have a character making sense expressing their/society’s views and speaking truth on shared experiences (“the rules are here to project you and others”) but it doesn’t feel at it’s core as though the wider narrative entirely supports Bellin’s lecture.

Which is tricky!

Rules don’t belong to a physical place like Greft views them; rules aren’t guide posts like Thymara views them; rules don’t secure happiness as Alise learned; and Bellin is right that rules can exist for a greater good but that doesn’t mean they don’t also do massive damage - just look at Thymara’s struggle with her self worth and identity.

THE RULES change from group to group and as dynamics shift, but change can be come about by force as well; personally I think that’s what the flash flood was all about.

At first there was a Bingtown/Rain Wild distinction. Then Human/Dragon distinction. Then a Barge/Keeper/Hunter/Dragon distinction. Then a flood smashed them all together and blew them apart and now they’re beyond those boxes of identity and are making everything up as they go.

Hopefully they’ll get to a place where information and personal choice will replace or at least better guide THE RULES.

We’ll see.

Alise

Get it girl!

YEAH

I like how Alise’s entire approach is fake it until you make it. I can relate to that.

So glad she has time to heal.

Thymara

Alright we’re coming around, we’re coming around!

I enjoyed Thymara a lot more this book.

She’s still super serious and confused but she is growing. She can only go up from here!

Haha, I made a funny - SHE HAS WINGS.

Captain Leftrin

Captain Leftrin is great and stoic and blablahblah lets talk about Tarman!

I LOVE TARMAN

I. Love. Tarman.

I can’t get over this long low barge with old creepy painted eyes having this hidden dragon body thing, it kills me! I think he’s so cute! Like, I think of his displeased old face with this chubby lizard body and I die.

omg

If everyone and everything got off of him I wonder if he could plod along on the shore?

Envision this: An open field of Kelsingra, a young settlement in the distance. A fresh flock of sheep are grazing. Waddling along is Tarman, the unphased sheep moving parting to make way. Swarge is chasing after the liveship, winded from the run up hill. “What are you - what are you doing?! We need to - hey Tarman! Tarman! Turn around guy!”

BWHAHAHAHAHAHA

Sedric

Aw, I love Sedric. I love Carson too, although Carson my buddy, my pal, maybe hitting on someone who just tried to kill themselves isn’t like a great go-to move? Skeevy. Everything else seems in line though, so that’s good.

Get away from Hest! Burn his tiny picture! Be besties with Alise and live free!

Tats

Tats is slipping into The Nice Guy™ territory a bit, huh? Not a full blown situation going on here but it’s scuttling the line.

It doesn’t help that I only know Tats as through Thymara who doesn’t know what she’s doing - but the fact remains I’ve known her exact frustration/confusion/decisions in my own life with male friends so I instinctively side with her.

I’m keeping my eye on you Tats.

Rapskal

I was mad distressed for a while there y’all, I was mad distressed.

But my boy pulled through!

He had to! He was too perfect for guiding a new set of RULES to be dismissed from the narrative! And a part of me knew that, knew he’d be coming back sometime.

I’m just super stoked it was sooner than later!

Very excited.

Greft

Oh boy.

What a douche, right?

Felt bad for him in the end but only marginally if I’m honest.

All that disgusting talk about picking a mate and needing to choose and ugh. Massive barf.

He was just pushy and nasty in that alpha male way???

Jerd

I was so relieved when Jerd and Thymara talked to each other.

And I also like that they’re not super close friends suddenly.

Some people just don’t get along that well and don’t like each other, but at least they can be somewhat mature about it.

I want happiness for Jerd though, she’s lost like Thymara just in a different way - I wish we knew more about her.

Sintara

dis bitch need to figure her own shit out before she goes hootin’ and hollarin’ at everyone else

I kind of love her now but still

she is faking until she is making but way to slow and poorly lol

Highlighted Passages

I sometimes think that age is based more on what you’ve done and what you remember than how old you are.

Did she have to hold on to her hurt and anger? Could she just let it go and forgive him and have him back as her friend? For a moment, it seemed as if it were purely her decision; she could make what he had done an important matter or she could let it go as just something that had happened. Holding on to it was hurting both of them. Before she had known what he had done with Jerd, he’d been her friend. All that had changed was that now she knew.

Whatever it was that was chafing him, Thymara already wanted to defy whatever older, male wisdom he intended to inflict on her.

She was the one who had accepted those limitations and brought them with her. She was the one who lived by the restrictive rules.

“After a lifetime of being told that no one should touch you, that no one would or could touch you because you were born too much of a monster? Then a soft-skinned boy with a gentle manner doesn’t seem to think it matters…that just made me feel free. So I decided to be free.”

But when all was finished Tarman had what the barge had conveyed to Leftrin it most desired. Four stout legs with webbed feet and a long tail had been added to the hull. Tarman could now go almost anywhere he and his captain wished to go.

“But it still wasn’t enough to prove that I deserved to live. It was just what was expected of me. What would have been expected of any Rain Wild daughter.” She did look at him then. “Proving I could be ordinary, despite how I looked, wasn’t enough for any of them.” His hands, tanned brown, worked like separate little animals, stripping the fruit and loading it into his pack. She’d always liked his hands. “Why wasn’t it enough for you?” he asked her. There was the rub. She wasn’t sure. “It just wasn’t,” she said gruffly. “I wanted to make them admit that I was as good as any of them and better than some.” “And then what would happen?” She was quiet for a time, thinking. She stopped her gathering to eat one of the yellow fruit. Her father had had a name for them, but she couldn’t remember it. They didn’t commonly grow near Trehaug. These were fat and sweet. They’d have fetched a good price at the market. She got down to a fuzzy seed and scraped the last of the pulp off with her teeth before she tossed it away. “It would probably make them hate me more than they already did,” she admitted. She nodded to herself and smiled, saying, “But at least then they’d have a good reason for it.”

“Greft changes the rules, it’s no risk for him, is it? He’s not the one who’s going to go into labor out here with no midwife. He’s not the one who’ll have to deal with a baby who can’t survive. I don’t think he’s ever wondered what he’s going to do with that baby if Jerd dies and the baby lives.” “How can you think of such things?” Tats was aghast. “How can you not think of them?” she retorted.

She hated that her voice rose to a shriek and broke on the words. She sounded hysterical and frightened, when in truth she was angry.

“You’re asking me to make a big decision. I’m not playing a game when I say that I don’t think I’m ready to make that decision. I’m not waiting for you to do something or give me something or even be something. I’m waiting for me. There’s nothing you can do to change that.”

“You sound as if you are still angry.” “Yes. I’m still angry. I don’t hate you; I’ve decided that. But I’m angry in a way I’ve never been angry before. I think that if I hated you, I’d just hate you. But once I realized that only someone I loved could hurt me this badly, I realized I didn’t hate you. And that is why I’m so angry.”

“I was dazzled. He did buy me gifts. Clothing. Pipes. A horse. I look back and I think now, those things were not really for me. They were things he gave me so that I would look how he wanted me to look. So I would not shame him with my shabby clothing or my poor taste in horseflesh. I was like…like cloth. Like something he had cut and sewn into a garment that suited him.”

He cried for all the things he’d thought he’d had but had never possessed. Wept for what he’d let Hest make him, how he’d deceived Alise, for what he’d thought of doing to Relpda. He cried because it was suddenly safe to do so.

Who smiled like that? Not the sophisticated and urbane Traders who had once been Sedric’s companions. They muted their expressions, never laughing too loud, hiding smiles behind well-tended hands. Appearing to be disaffected or cynical was stylish. Why had he thought that was attractive and civilized?

“Sintara!” The bellow came from Mercor. “Close your jaws and fold your wings! Do not harm your keeper for speaking truth to you!” “Fight! Fight! Fight!” Spit was trumpeting joyously.

They spoke their minds to each other, and she found that didn’t displease her. After their last crisis, their relationship had resumed as it had been before. Thymara tended the dragon and brought her food when her hunting went well. She enjoyed Sintara’s beauty, just as she would have enjoyed living in a fine house, just as she had once enjoyed the art and music of her neighbors in the Cricket Cages. She didn’t confuse that beauty with Sintara herself.

#realm of the elderlings #year of book #fandom talks #Rain Wilds Chronicles

2 notes · View notes