#will I make a matching one for Shadow Milk once more?

[groovyfrog420]

Vanilly has a new CRK China skin, you know what that means!!

I wanted to draw him in a way that makes it slightly more recognisable as PV, but I hope I did this skin justice :]]

[syaolaurant]

I couldn't sleep last night my head hurts 🥲 (no I'm not stressed just drank too much milk tea yesterday haha...BUT I LOVE MILK TEA DAMN IT!)

So here you are my watercolor process for "Sun Light" as promised ~~

1 - Sketches: This is already the clean sketch. Before that I need to take in-game screenshots ⬇️⬇️ & brainstorm the characters and their poses in a separate sketchbook. I mostly use colored mechanical pencils for clean sketches because don't smudge much compared to graphite ones.

2 - Color the base: I started with painting a base color layer, using wet-on-wet technique and mixed a generous amount of water with yellow for the large area, light blue for the serpent and green for Seb & Omi uniform. Here I also use less paint for the sun light area. 3 - Use more color on darker areas: When painting I always try to think how the light source interacts with the characters and objects, and use thicker/darker color on areas that not exposed to the light. I have to wait for the first layer to be completely dry, and from now I use wet-on-dry technique otherwise the color will be blended everywhere.

4 - Add more layers: Here I just added more layers, with intense colors for details, pattern and shadows. I think the basic of watercolor is "applying layers" (sounds like digital but kinda different haha).

Step 4: finish all the details and lines.

5 - Line works : Once I am finished with the color I moved on to lining. I used my 0.5 brush with black color for the window (since the frame is also black in game) and other details with matching color but darker tone.

6 - Finishing touch: Here I'm almost done with everything, for the finishing touch I decided to add more highlights using white watercolor (white gel pen is also ok) on small areas where the light touches the characters.

.

I think I'll have to make another painting process sharing since this was done in a rush and the photos I took were terrible 😭😭 If anyone have any tips please feel free to share I WOULD BE VERY HAPPY TO KNOW oh and my ask box is still open 😭❤️❤️

[okminer07]

A Match Beyond Measure Pt 11

Rebecca met Cecilia in a room in the back that was mostly taken up by a large cylindrical tube, like what someone might see at a drive-thru bank, only much bigger. On the far side of the tube, was a slidable door that Rebecca pushed back, revealing at the bottom of the tube a stack of giant styrofoam cups. With the press of a button, a mechanical claw dislodged one of the cups from the stack before it was sent upwards and stopped where the rim was just below chest level.  

“What do you need?” asked Cecilia. 

“He asked for a hot chocolate, so get me what I need for that.” 

She nodded before hurrying away, returning a minute or so later, arms full of jugs of milk. Cecilia repeated this several times, running back and forth, dropping off armfuls of ingredients while Rebecca poured container after container into a massive pot in the far corner of the room where a fire burned below it. Once the pot was filled, she would haul it over to the tube and dump it into the cup. The first time she did this, she pressed a small button on the lower half of the tube that activated a system that kept the drink warm.  

After ten minutes of constant running back and forth, stirring, and pouring, they were almost finished. Cecilia hobbled back in for the final time, carrying three marshmallows, each of which was the size of a large pillow. She tossed them into the now full cup.  

“Alright,” Rebecca breathed, shaking out her arms. She stepped forward, about to press another button on the tube but turned back to Cecilia, “You promise me that you’re telling the truth when you say he’s not forcing you into anything?” 

She nodded, “I promise.”  

Her friend gave her a single nod before turning her focus back to her job. When she pressed the button, a small compartment further up inside the tube opened up. It pushed out a lid that slid down the tube before landing on top of the drink. Rebecca leaned forward and using all of her body weight, snapped the lid into place. She then pressed yet another button, causing the small door to shut and after a small hiss of air, the drink was sent rocketing upwards, disappearing into the ceiling.    

They both headed back to the front of the cafe. Cecilia was expecting to see Maddie and Sean waiting for them, but they were nowhere to be seen. It was only after Rebecca gestured outside that she saw them. Her stomach twisted itself into yet another knot, oh God. Garret was crouched down with Sean between his shoes and the two looked to be talking while Maddie was leaning up against one of Garret’s shoes, still somehow solely focused on her phone.    

When the two stepped outside, Garret looked up. He smiled down at Cecilia while also eyeing Rebecca with caution, “Hey, I forgot to pay for that,” he pointed at the roof of the cafe where his drink sat in the designated pickup area, “One sec,” Sean and Maddie both scurried away as the giant above them began to move, rummaging through his jean pockets, “Ah, here” he pulled out a crumpled up bunch of Lumins. After pulling out the right amount, he leaned down, holding the large slips of paper out to Rebecca. She snatched them up and tucked them under her arm, making them look like a couple who newspapers.  

“Oh, right. Let me run in and get your croissant” called Sean who had already started jogging back to the cafe.  

“Thanks,” Cecilia muttered as he passed her.   

Garret stood up and leaned down towards the building, completely encapsulating it with his shadow. As he straightened, drink now in hand, Sean came running back outside and handed Cecilia her food. 

“It was nice meeting all of you,” said Garret, glancing over at Rebecca sheepishly before he looked to Cecilia, “Ready?”  

Her fingers fidgeted with the paper bag in her hands. She spared one more look at her friends before she nodded, “Yeah, I’m ready.” 

The ground beneath her rocked as Garret fell to one knee, placing his open hand before her. She could feel the intensity of her friends' stares as she stepped closer. They could probably see that she was shaking. Could Garret see that right now? 

Just as she had done earlier, she clambered onto the fleshy platform, situating herself as far away from the edges as possible. Instead of straining her neck to look up at his face, Cecilia gave the surface beneath her two taps. Garret must have felt it because he began to move, bringing his hand closer to his torso as he stood.   

When everything stilled and Cecilia could open her eyes, she couldn’t stop herself from peering toward the ground. There was the cafe, looking like nothing more than a dollhouse, and all the cars parked out front looking like toys. From up here, her friends' features were all blurred together, too minuscule and far away to make out.   

Is this how he saw everything? Without detail? Without clarity?  

Garret’s palm shifted beneath her as he turned and began to head back into the city. Cecilia’s hands fumbled for something to hold onto once more and was surprised to see his thumb flex so that the top half hovered right in front of her. She stared for a moment, before wrapping one of her arms around it while a smile crept onto her face.

“They seem nice.” 

“Huh?” 

“Your friends,” said Garret, “They seem nice.”  

“Oh, yeah. They are.” she suddenly went red, “I’m s-sorry about Rebecca. She- she misunderstood the situation.” 

Garret gave a weak chuckle, “It’s fine. Sean said that she was just worried.” Cecilia looked up, opening her mouth to say something but stopped. Though she couldn’t see much other than the underside of his jaw, she could see that he was frowning, “Anyways, thanks for coming with me. Usually, I spend lunch with some of the other guys from work, but someone always ends up drunk and it's nice to have a break from all that.”  

“D-do you drink often?” 

Garret made a noise of disgust, “Me? God no. I hate how it burns your throat, and the ones that actually taste good are so expensive. You?” 

She shook her head, “Not really.” A drunk giant, that was an uneasy thought. A part of her felt relieved. 

“Yeah. My old man had a taste for the stuff. Nothing too bad” he assured her, “Just spent a good chunk of money on six packs.”   

“Mine too.” 

“Yeah?” 

Cecilia nodded, “Yeah, and I don’t blame him.” 

“Why’s that?” 

She shrugged, “He had to put up with a lot. He was a part of the military and often worked overseas. Often he dealt with g-” she stopped herself, peering anxiously up over her shoulder. “A….. good deal of things.”

The back of her mind began to buzz and soon spread like a swarm of static throughout her head. A foggy image unfolded in her mind’s eye. She shook her head, trying to rid herself of it, but it was no use. She was staring down a long sterile-looking corridor with dozens of doors lining either side. There was noise too. She could hear a voice. Her mother’s voice, sobbing.  

“I actually considered joining the military.” Cecilia was instantly thrown back into the present by Garret’s thunderous voice, “Though I didn’t love the idea of traveling all around and the strict schedule.” 

She didn’t respond, staring down at the palm beneath her as she began to tremble. No, not now! Please, not now. Stop that! 

A small yelp escaped her as she was brought up and closer to Garret’s face. He peered down at her, eyes narrowed, “You okay?”  

She timidly looked him in the eyes. Like every time before he had looked at her, there wasn’t an ounce of anger, irritation, or anything that a part of her expected to see. No, right now his bottom lids were wrinkled in concern, concern for her. 

Why? Why was that? Why would he be concerned about her? What reason did he have? For him to want to know if she was okay? What did he have to gain from that? It didn’t make sense to her.  

“Monstrous they are, coldhearted creatures.”  echoed a familiar voice. A voice for the longest time she thought was correct.

Her body began to relax. She tilted her head up at the giant one before her. 

“I’m fine.” she averted her gaze, “Thank you.” 

Garret lightened up slightly at her response, “Oh uh, yeah. You just seemed a little-” 

“And thanks for choosing a human cafe. It was….. Thoughtful.” 

“Well I…… I just thought it made sense.” 

She smiled up at him, not sure if her heart was fluttering out of nerves or something else, “Still, it was nice.” 

He stared back down at her, looking confused and honestly a little shocked. Cecilia was certainly taken aback when she noticed his cheeks begin to turn pink. Was he- he couldn’t possibly be…….

“I Uh, no problem.”  he stammered. She almost felt like laughing. Him being the one stammering seemed ludicrous. He cleared his throat, “So uh speaking of which. That cookie was awesome. How long have you been baking for?” 

[giggly-squiggily]

Spontaneous Headcanons #25

Been having a lot of thoughts lately about Gundham Tanaka

🐹: Once you get to know him, it's not too hard to translate what he's saying:

"Thou's familiar in this recorded quest; does he come to a terrible demise? I haven't obtained the runes necessary to prevent a terrible tide upon thee art so." = "Does the dog/cat/animal companion die in the movie? If so I'm not watching it cause I will cry and hate you forever."

"I have been through endless visits to the underworld and had many encounters with the devil himself. As the Lord of Ice and Darkness, I am not afraid to face him once more." = "Yes I am lactose Intolerant. No I don't care if milk will make me sick, I'm drinking it anyway."

"Do you wish to feast on the spoils of my trialing journey?" = "I made cookies, you want one?"

🐹: You can tell when he's genuinely laughing and smiling by two things: 1.) His eyes crinkle in the corners when he smiles and he has one dimple. Also he covers his mouth with a fist. 2.) His real laugh is deep and soft, very soothing sounding compared to his "Muahhahhaha!" laugh. Also he pig snorts. Alot.

🐹: He gives honorary titles to his friends when they get close enough. "Lord of Puzzles and Mysteries." (Hajime) "Heiress of the Sirens and Soundwaves". (Ibuki), "Queen of Shadows and Light" (Sonia) "...Souda" (Souda) (OI!-)

🐹: One time Sonia and Ibuki put little party hats on the Dark Devas for his birthday. At the time he was all: "My Deva's are not playthings for you to dress as you please!" but he still has the picture of them all wearing the hats as his background on his phone. They all knew he secretly loved it.

🐹: One time Nekomaru offered to give him a back massage after they trained together. Gundham accepted it at the time but all but gave up immediately after cause it tickled too much (He's used to incredibly light tickles due to the Devas. Harder/Squeezier ones he can't handle at all.) His "massage" turned into a full blown tickle attack akrjkarkjjkr

🐹: He's all talk and confidence until you kiss him on the cheek. Then he gets super flustered and hides in his scarf. Sonia loves doing this especially, but sometimes simple gestures like a squeeze to the shoulder or a hug from friends will make him fluster just as much. He's secretly into all that physical affection!

🐹: Speaking of- Gundham gives really good hugs. He's tall and he always smells good, despite working with animals all the time. When he hugs someone- especially when you're close- he puts all his strength in it (without hurting you) for maximum hug potential. He might be a bit flustered while doing so, but he'll put all his Dark Lord energy into it if he knows you need one.

🐹: A really good singer but horribly shy about it. You might get lucky and catch him singing along to something under his breath when he's taking care of his animals or studying, but if you flat out ask him to sing he'll laugh and tell you "When the world ends for good." (Might be slightly shaky in his declaration- again; he's shy lols)

🐹: Don't let his outer shell fool you- Gundham bleeds easily. Hurtful words and gestures stick around a lot longer than he likes to admit, and it's easy to tell when he's been stung by the softness in his voice and the droop to his shoulders. He'll never admit it though, he'd rather pretend he's merely angry at such remarks than wounded by them. Try to be gentle with him.

🐹: If if his words don't always match up to his actions, he does truly love his friends. He'll send his Devas out with little gifts for them (Guitar picks for Ibuki, a freshly picked flower for Sonia, a new screwdriver for Souda, etc.) or give them a boost of encouragement in his funny way of speaking. He's a little rough around the edges but there's no denying Gundham's a pretty grand person.

[stargirl1331]

Very Oddly Specific Vibes of (some of) my mutuals!(mainly if I interact with you a bunch)(I will be adding more this post will get so long)

@hauntedsuns (sunny!)

The smell of strawberry cotton candy, and the color of sunlight through a sun catcher tinted purple, the texture of a popcorn ceiling painted sky blue and the feel of when you are spinning in a flowy skirt and it’s not quite raining because there aren’t many clouds and it’s sunrise so all the clouds are nice colors. Pink and blue mica powder swirling in water, and the sound of pancakes getting made. And just have Aphrodite vibes.

@wyvrens (wyvren<- adopted child)

The crunch of a grape jolly rancher, the smell of air in the kitchen after snickerdoodles are made, a dinosaur shaped penutbutter sandwich. You are the sparks before the match lights, and the stim whre you hold your arms a little away from you and wiggle your wrists. Running fingers over a gecko that’s not quite cold but is cold blooded. The sky right before night in a city where it’s not dark but it is dusty, streetlights reflecting off a green house and Christmas lights up in October.

Izzie-re’pue:)

The minty taste of bubblegum icecube gum, the smell of squishmallows, the soft light when you shine a lamp through a scarf so it doesnt hurt your eyes. You are the stim where you are sitting criss cross and wiggle your shoulders and it turns down to your torso, happy and good. It’s when you see the stars and are sitting on the grass so you wiggle our shoulders and you feel it all the way down your torso, not anxious. Eating moss, but only if it was edible, and getting an obscure tattoo so that you can make up stories for what it means. Shadow puppets on the wall with the light of a phone screen, stirring a chocolate spoon in milk while rain falls in April. You are the smile when the first snow falls and the whole class runs to the windows to look, the quiet of a full house when everyone is sitting together.

@thedoctorandclaraforeverandever (Zoya:))

Firelight shining on stones(like the big blocky ones fireplaces are made of) and apple cider. the little bits of paper that fly up when you burn it, and cinder blocks painted orange. sharp ish thing is tree bark. white oak tree bark. it looks all rough and angry to touch but is actually soft and will fall off the tree easily. Waving to someone as they exit the airport and you meet for the first time, and an arm around your shoulder. The smell of popcorn half way through the movie, and music in headphones.

@wardofwinters (Pauhi Life)

Melted wax on a penny, and sunlight on pavement. leaves blowing through a doorway, scarves on lights, worms digging through the dirt, unseen by everyone. 27 candles burning at once but only 3 have sents and they are all warm smells. pine needles if anything sharp, pokey but actually not. Eye contact and giggling, shushing the other. Trading notes telling you to take care of yourself and staring until they open it. Excessive and unnecessary punctuation, but it’s fun. Bumping shoulders and knocking elbows. Post offices and the taste of envelope glue. Spinning in so many circles and staring at the stars once you fall.

[victorluvsalice]

-->And then, while I was distracted for just one moment seeing how Victor was coming along in the greenhouse, Alice and Smiler both ran off to Smiler’s party barn to play ping-pong again. *shakehead* Since they’d already taken care of the animals, I just let them go ahead and have their game – which was a pretty tough one! The two of them constantly slipped the ball past each other, seemingly very well matched indeed. But Alice end up winning in the end, four points to three. Smiler really just doesn’t seem to have much luck with the old ping-pong table at all these days, huh? At least they weren’t utterly steamrolled like they were at juice pong a few playsessions ago…

-->While those two were pinging and ponging, Victor finished up his garden tending – I had him grab everybody’s various cans of fertilizer and fertilize his oversized crops (super vitality for the lettuce and pumpkins, regular vitality for the rest), then get his beeswax and honey out of the bee box and check in on the bees (little irritated, nothing to worry about). I then had him super-sell everything in the greenhouse (Smiler has over SIXTY plasma fruits in their inventory and a ridiculous amount of herbalism stuff in the herbalism box, they’re set) while I sent Alice to finish the painting she started yesterday and Smiler ran off on their own to have a nice bubble bath. Once Victor was done super-selling, I had him take a moment to “open” the pile of feathers one of the pets brought him that’s been sitting in his inventory for ages (two finch feathers and a blue jay feather – I hung up the blue jay and one of the finches in the study and sold the spare), then join Alice in the study to work on the song in his inventory (though I think it’s glitched, honestly, since he never seems to make progress on it – might want to scrap it and start another one). Smiler joined them after they were done with their bath to do a little jamming on their guitar –

But of course, in the time it took for them to get down there, Alice had completed her painting and run off to shower in the rain. *sigh* I let her finish (her hygiene was getting slightly low), then had her play chess so I could get a nice shot of everyone in the study together –

-->Just in time for the mail to arrive! Just bills, nothing special. I had Smiler go and get the mail and pay the bills (turning on the cauldron laser light show along the way, because why not) while Alice got sent to clean more spoiled food out of the fridge while I used the “put away” option granted by Brazen Lotus’s “Core” mod to put away the eggs and milk she and Smiler had gathered earlier. (Seriously, SO fucking convenient!) She and Victor then had grilled fruit for lunch (again, the next thing liable to go off), while Smiler had a plasma pack (made from a freshly-bred spotted eggplant frog) and a plasma fruit with them. Because I like family meals, damn it – especially on a day like today. :p

Speaking of family meals, I got a notification that Shadow was very hungry right after the human-shaped Sims finished their food – I had Victor call Shadow to eat, then had Smiler and Alice call Shock and Kelly to eat too for good measure (Surprise was out having Free Spirit Cat Adventures). Alice cleaned the dishes as Victor wandered off to the bedroom to mold clay – she followed him up there to chat, but I had her watch the fish instead so I could send Smiler up there too and then have Victor propose a group date (I was going to have Smiler ask Victor, but then realized it made more sense to have Victor ask Smiler, as Victor is the one with multiple romances here) –

Cue Victor and Smiler wandering downstairs for no good reason, and the interaction canceling out as Victor gave up on the clay and put it in the downstairs bathroom on the sink. *sigh* Sims 4, I swear sometimes… Fortunately, my second attempt to set up the date worked fine –

[zarvasace]

It All Began (3/5)

We really gettin into the drama today, folks. Drama and lore! AO3 link here! angst and violence warning.

Eclipse

Shadow gladly supported some of Vio's weight as they headed back to their rooms. His heart beat in time with the pulses that he could feel from Vio squeezing his hand. "Your plan worked like a charm, Vio. I shouldn't be so surprised! They're trapped in there, now, it's only a matter of time before they're frozen, too. You were amazing."

"You, too," Vio said, out of breath, and Shadow almost glowed. 

The door slid away, and Shadow took Vio to one of the padded benches on the wall to sit down. He clutched at his leg, though he didn't touch the burned hole in his pants. Shadow winced. He could see a patch of blackened flesh past the hole, and a burn mark on his boot, too. Luckily, all the clothes he'd let Vio take were at least a little bit fireproof, so the damage could have been a lot worse. 

"That doesn't look good," Shadow said slowly. 

Vio shook his head and started to pull his boots off. "Just stings, a lot. I'll be fine. Will you grab the patches?" 

"The what?"

"The first aid kit."

"Right! Yes." Shadow went to the cabinet and grabbed the untouched first aid kit. He'd never needed it, but it came standard with the rooms. Once or twice, he'd thought of throwing it out to make more room… he just didn't have anything he needed more room for. 

He sat down on the bench and handed the box over for Vio to use. He had torn the pants open for better access, and muttered a thanks. Shadow watched in morbid fascination as Vio tended the wound—first he wiped off the oozing blood and dead skin with something medical-smelling, then he smoothed a dark skin-colored patch over the worst of the damage, and sealed it all with a liberal spray of something vaguely glittery. 

"Did that fix it?" Shadow asked when Vio closed the kit. 

Vio glanced at him with an unreadable expression. "Not quite. But it doesn't hurt as much, and it'll get better soon. Have you never used one of these before?"

"...people use them all the time," Shadow hedged. He grabbed the box and put it back into the cabinet. 

"You don't not get injured, though." 

Shadow stared at the cabinet door for a moment, then turned, smiling. "Of course not. You've seen the stuff I do, what happens. 

"You know what? You deserve some answers, after what you did today. I'm proud of you, Vio." 

That, finally, made Vio smile, though it looked a little tight. "For killing my brother?" 

"For sticking with me. Come on, I want to show you something." He offered his hand, and Vio readily took it as help to stand. Shadow let Vio lean on him again as they headed back out into the ship.

He took them down, down, and down some more. They traveled past the kitchen, past the storage, past the disposal level, all the way into the belly of the ship. Despite the seeming distance, the trip only took a few minutes. Shadow had it timed down to the second. The stairs were steep, but they took it slowly, and Vio handled it just fine. 

Shadow chattered the whole way there, unable to keep his excitement in. Vio undoubtedly knew more than him about the different kinds of ship propulsion systems, but he let Shadow talk like he was an expert, and Shadow milked the opportunity. 

"—my personal favorite, though, is a force exhaust engine," Shadow said as they got to the secure portal to the inner workings of the ship. His pendant flashed in recognition of the security measures, and unlocked them without any effort on his part.

"Is that what this ship has?" Vio asked. His head twisted back and forth to watch the security doors pulling back in various directions. 

"Yep, a very unique one. It doesn't just move us through space, it powers the whole ship. It's propulsion and generator all in one, which cuts back on space and bulk even more." They emerged into the engine room, where a massive pillar rose from ceiling to floor. It pulsed with cyan light. Shadow felt his heartbeat shifting away from matching Vio's to matching that thing. It only made him a little bit melancholy. 

The pillar dominated the room. It wasn't a very big room, all things considered. They were alone in here, and likely to stay that way for a long time. Nobody really came down here, so it made a great place for Shadow to hide from everyone and rest a little, when he wasn't doing something or bothering Zelda. A panel of controls blinked on one wall above the single desk. Empty force capsules lined shelves on the opposite wall, ready to be filled. 

Shadow led Vio to the engineer chairs across from the pillar. He took his second-favorite, letting Vio take the most comfortable one. He spun around in the chair a few times and picked at his nails as he considered what, exactly, to tell Vio. He had no question about Vio's loyalty, so really, there was nothing to keep from him. Besides, Shadow wanted Vio to know everything. 

"Huh." Vio looked up. "You mean this ship runs on large-scale physical force transference? Yes, I see the pipes. That's amazing."

"It's pretty cool. It powers the ship, and… it also powers me." Shadow stopped the chair spinning, which made him dizzy. He laughed as his eyes refused to focus on Vio's baffled face. "What, did you think I was perfectly, completely Hylian?" 

"No," Vio said slowly, "but I could never quite figure out what you are, instead." 

Shadow's vision settled. "You mean you haven't figured it out by now? I didn't think I was being subtle."

"The closest alien race I can think of is Twili, but you're not quite one of them. Half, maybe? What do you mean, it powers you?" 

"Vio, Vio, Vio, you need to think broader than that! Come on, what am I? Why did I say what I did when Link met me for the first time?" Shadow spread his arms wide and watched the light flood into Vio's eyes. 

"You're a clone," Vio said. "An edited clone of Link. How—why—I mean… that's supposed to be impossible." 

Shadow grinned. "Well, I'm here, so clearly not. But I'm also not entirely stable, if you know what I mean. That's why…" He picked up his glowing pendant and let a bit of force energy skitter over him. Vio made a noise of understanding. "This isn't… I mean, it's not weird, is it?" 

"I don't think so." Vio didn't say it too quickly, to Shadow's relief. "You're your own person, and it's not like you look exactly like Link did, anyway. You've always been you." His eyes glazed over a little as he thought, and warmth chased the fear of rejection from Shadow's shoulders. 

As Vio thought, Shadow turned around in his chair, sitting on it backwards with his hands folded over the back and his chin sitting on that. He watched as Vio mulled over the new information, taking it in, parsing it, and deciding what was relevant. 

Eventually, Vio returned to the present, and he still met Shadow's gaze unflinching. "Thank you for telling me."

"Yeah, sure." Shadow shrugged, but he had more in mind than just letting Vio in on that secret. He dug his chin into his fingers. "Vio. I think there's more in store for us than just listening to Vaati." 

Vio's eyebrows rose, and he glanced around. "Is it safe to say that sort of thing in here?" 

"Sure. I'm the one in charge of security in this room. I guess Vaati thinks it'd be funny if someone got in here to sabotage the engine and it was my fault. You know. If the engine goes down, I won't have much time to live, I'd destabilize pretty quickly." Shadow shook his head, remembering the brief flashes of fear he'd felt when imagining Vio coming down here. He had none of that, now.

"Oh." Vio stared at the engine, cyan light playing on his face and lighting up his eyes. 

Shadow spun back around on his chair. "Anyway, yeah. I can't go very far away from the engine, but with the whole ship to ourselves, going wherever we want, that doesn't even matter. We could totally do it—the security protocols already recognize me as in command if Vaati goes down. I might have messed with them a little." He smiled. "There's only one tiny issue with that plan."

Vio glanced over at him. "What issue?"

"Vaati uses the engine, too." Shadow gestured, wide and dramatic. "Not to stay alive, but if he gets seriously injured, to the point of death, then he can use the force energy to regenerate. It's limited, but still an issue."

"Is it something we could negate? I mean… how would we get around that?" 

"Mm… breaking the engine would do it. But that wouldn't be good for me, so let's avoid that." Shadow set his chair to spinning again, though slower this time. "He'd have to have something like my pendant on him, though knowing him, he made it almost impossible to get to, an implant or something. You could just hit him over and over, he can't keep up the regeneration forever."

"It's unfortunate that EMPs don't work on force energy." Vio said. "Maybe we can overload it in a different way, or cut him off from the power. Hm… throw him out the airlock? Trap him with metal grids?" 

Shadow pushed off of the desk to spin around again and grinned. "Yeah, there's a possibility one of those could work. I knew you'd have good ideas. We can take this ship from Vaati, and then we'd be free. What do you say?" 

"Say we do," Vio said in a slow tone that told Shadow he was contemplating it, "what happens when we have the ship?"

"What do you mean?" 

"I mean… won't Sorcerer Enterprises be upset and try to take the ship back from you?" 

Shadow laughed. "You're talking about Ganon, aren't you? Nah, I think he's almost expecting me to do it. He's the one who actually made me, you know." He leaned back on his chair and put his feet up on the desk at a precarious angle. "Can't do anything about him."

"But…" Vio hummed. "What if you could?" 

"I don't know if we can. He doesn't really leave SE's headquarters on the Plains, and you know how well-defended that place is. He always seems to see through me." 

"But he can't see through me. He doesn't know me." Vio leaned forward, smiling now. "I bet we could. Together."

Shadow smiled back, feeling light. "You know what? I think you're right. And then we'd have the whole Plains, not just one little prison ship. Vio, you're a genius, and the best friend I've ever had." 

The only friend he'd ever had. It felt good.

Embers

Red's fingers combed through Green's hair. He noticed his own fingertips turning purple, but that was nothing against Green's lips. The six silent Maidens loomed over the three of them, frozen in time. Red didn't even try to hold back his tears. 

"I c-can't believe it. Two of them. Gone like that."

"Vio's not dead, I saw that much," Blue muttered, pulling the blaster from Green's hand and powering it down. He moved slowly. "But he'll wish he was."

"He's still gone. He's not our… our friend anymore." Red wanted to throw up the feelings that mixed in his stomach right now, guilt and anger and despair. They'd continue their mission, but without Green or Vio, he didn't know if it could ever succeed. 

Blue took Green's hand, then paused. With sudden, harsh speed, he reached up to put his fingers against Green's neck. Red's tears dried up almost immediately. After a few moments, Blue took Green's shirt in two hands and pulled, ripping the fabric and exposing the chest. 

Like the rest of them, Green looked a little thin. A red patch darkened his skin over his heart, where the bolt had burned through the fabric.

But Red didn't see an actual wound, just two ends of a thin, flexible tube flying free. Green's air filter had broken. Was that… was that it? His own fingers scrambled for Green's jaw, feeling for a pulse. He trembled on his own, but after several seconds… There.

"He's not dead. Blue, he's not dead!" 

"I know. Put his head down," Blue ordered as he knelt a little closer. "The bolt might've stunned him too."

Red hurried to comply and get out of the way. "There's a way to get him to start breathing again, right?" He watched as Blue locked his fingers together and positioned them over Green's sternum. 

"Yes. You don't remember? Link definitely knew." Blue's lips tightened, and he began pressing down, hard, in a steady rhythm. "Find something to fix the tube with."

"Good plan." Red stood up, noting the way he couldn't feel his toes anymore. He ignored that in favor of looking around the room once again. 

Six cryo tubes, one platform with a chair… Red couldn't look at it. Luckily, behind the last tube on the left, he found a cabinet door, though the handle refused to do more than jiggle. 

Behind him, Green began to take shuddering gasps, though it didn't seem like any breath lasted very long. 

Well, Red would do anything to keep one of his brothers alive. He considered for a moment, then ran to grab the chair from the platform. It wasn't a heavy one, but it did seem like it would be comfortable to sit in. He held it awkwardly and positioned it over his shoulder when he got to the cabinet again.

"You got this, you got this," Red whispered to himself, then brought the chair crashing down on the handle. 

Both the handle and the chair cracked, but the cabinet swung open, and Red threw the chair to the side to loot around the emergency supplies. Thank Din, he found something useful. His fingers fumbled as he snatched up the roll of electrical tape. 

"Got it." Red fell back to his knees next to Blue, who had stopped the compressions and instead held Green's head gently, clearly hoping to open up his airways a bit better. Thin breaths hissed through Green's teeth.

"Good, fix it!" Blue demanded. "I am not losing him."

"I'm doing my best, don't snap." Red ripped off a piece of tape with his teeth and stuck it on one broken end of the tube, then matched up the other end with as much care as he could. He wrapped the join, then added more tape, closing up holes one way or another.

Green didn't sound any better, even after the air filter began working again. It occurred to Red that the filter wouldn't doing anything if Green was only trying to breathe from his mouth. With a wince, Red reached forward and covered Green's mouth. He supposed that it was the heat of Green's skin that made his fingers sting. 

Blue started to protest, but Green's breaths began to flow through his nose, finally taking advantage of the air filter. Slowly, his desperate breaths evened out, and Green's eyes slid open. He looked a bit glassy.

"There you are," Blue sighed. His shoulders slumped, and he flicked some sweat off of his forehead. What Red wouldn't do to feel that warm right now. 

Red pulled his hand off of Green's mouth and grabbed his hand, avoiding a hug, which would squeeze his lungs in a probably bad way. "We thought you'd died!"

"Vio's an awful shot with a blaster, if he had the setting that low." Blue shook his head. "It got your filter tube instead."

Green took one more deep breath before answering. "I'm okay. I'm…" His brow furrowed in thought. "Vio didn't kill me. Guys, that was on purpose."

"Him killing you?" Blue scowled. 

"No." Green pushed himself up. He winced and set a hand to his chest, but moved anyway. Red made sure he was nearby to support him if he needed it. "It wasn't an accident that Vio avoided killing me. He's getting on Shadow's good side. He has a plan."

"What makes you so sure?" Blue snapped, standing up. "He sat up there, mocked us, was all cozy with the guy who kidnapped us, don't forget about that detail, and shot you!" 

Green looked away, took another deep breath, and then turned back to Blue with a determined expression. "He crossed his fingers where I could see, but Shadow couldn't. I know"—He interrupted Blue's inevitable protest—"I know. But I also know what I saw and I know how I felt. He's on our side. Trust me, please."

Blue stared at the face of the closest frozen Maiden for a few moments, then sighed and turned back. "Fine. Sure. Not like I want him to be evil. If this goes badly, it's all your fault."

"And you?" Green turned to Red. 

"Oh! Of course I trust you. I don't want Vio to be evil, either, and if you say he's not, I'll believe you." Red smiled and squeezed his hand, then pushed himself to his feet and pulled Green up, too. He wrinkled his nose at Green's torn shirt. 

"So." Blue tapped a knuckle on the nearest cryo tube, making a dull ringing noise. "What next?"

Green shivered and gave the room a proper look. "As much as I want to free the Maidens right now, I think they can wait for a minute. They'll need care after being thawed, anyway, care we can't give right now."

"Mm." Red made a noise. He wanted nothing more than for everyone to just… not fight. For them to be free, be together, and go down to the castle on the Plains where Zelda lived. He wanted pies, video games, and peace. He would like to be warm. That would all have to wait. 

The plans working their way through Green's head were as obvious as the goosebumps on his shoulders. He nodded once. "We'll go sneaking around some more. We need to find shoes and whatever weapons or tools we can, make sure that Red isn't getting hypothermia, and find somewhere to wait."

"Wait?" Blue winced. "I don't disagree that we need supplies, but wait until what?"

Red saw that part of the plan. He answered. "Until Vio makes his move."

Rockslide

After an eternity of staring up at the ceiling and listening to the low hum of the ship, Vio sat up and put his feet on the floor. Only a few lights on the door panel broke the blackness, except for the glow of Shadow's pendant. He slept with it clutched in his fist, where it gave his peaceful face an ethereal cast. He looked like a fairy from one of the old legends that Vio remembered Link's mother sharing late at night, beneath the stars. 

As if activated by Vio's attention, the pendant pulsed gently. A faint wave of cyan light traveled through Shadow's veins—beginning at his hand, going down his arm, lighting his face from inside, and disappearing under his blanket. The glow did nothing to dispel his faelike aura. 

Vio looked away. 

He had a lot of options right now, theoretically. He'd already waited two days for the others to recoup, he could wait for a little while longer if he really wanted to. He didn't have to go through with his best plan, either, but he really couldn't let Vaati or Ganon gain more power than they already had. He could try to explain… Vio snuck a glance at Shadow again, then shook his head to himself. He ran a hand through his hair.

Shadow's existence had been short so far, and the closest thing he had to a family was Vaati. No wonder that he was lonely and dramatic. No wonder that he latched onto Vio, the first person to ever show him the respect of a peer. No wonder all he wanted was power and freedom. But for all his talk of "seeing the big picture," Shadow's worldview was unfortunately naive. Even if Vio could pull out just the right words, chances were, Shadow would never believe him. 

No, this plan would work out just fine. The guilt of killing Shadow like this would haunt Vio for the rest of his life, but it was preferable to leaving everything in the hands of Sorcerer Enterprises. He needed to do this, to give the others a chance at killing Vaati without worrying about his regeneration.

Vio pushed his feet into his boots, avoiding looking up at the boy sleeping in full view. He was so trusting. Slowly, Vio reached over to the night table and ran his thumb down the sides of Shadow's earpieces, reducing the volume and giving himself more time until Shadow came to investigate. 

…If he ever got that far. If everything went well, Shadow would fade away in his bed, hopefully without too much pain and never knowing that Vio had betrayed him. That would be the ideal situation. 

Without looking at Shadow again, Vio stood, grabbed his jacket from the chair, and left the room as quietly as possible. The lights in the hallway made him blink, but he turned on his annoyed face and stalked down to the steep staircases. He'd become known to the ship personnel, so nobody stopped him as he climbed down, down, down to the engines. His leg still ached, but he had bigger things to worry about. 

He stopped at the first door. As soon as he passed this, there was no turning back. Vio closed his eyes for a count of three, then moved forward with resolve. He waved Shadow's extra passcard over the sensor, borrowed and never returned, and the door slid away. He moved on. The door closing behind him sealed his decision. 

The engine room hummed louder in the dearth of Shadow's voice. If Vio thought hard enough, he could almost hear Shadow talking a mile a minute about this engine versus that, why force propulsion was so clearly the best option. He hadn't understood the cost of force propulsion, though. People didn't use it often because it cost so much to install.

Vio hadn't had much chance to investigate the engine room before. He only had the vaguest idea of how to disable the engine, but he sat down at the engineering station to figure it out. Several holoscreens popped into existence, blue and orange. 

It took another flash of the passcard to get into the system, but from there, Vio could see how to destroy the engine. All he had to do was send several conflicting emergency messages. The system would overload a few precious circuits, then quickly burn itself out until the decay was irreversible. He saved the program into a file, and then onto a chip that he shoved into a jacket pocket. Just in case. 

With the system primed to go, Vio's finger hesitated over the execution button. 

He didn't want to kill Shadow. He really didn't. There had to be another way to solve this. His hand lifted. 

"What are you waiting for?" hissed a voice, familiar but entirely unexpected. 

Vio startled. He looked up, and now that he was paying attention, he saw glints of metal behind the vent grate. "Blue?" he whispered. 

"Yeah, get on with whatever you're doing!" 

"Right." Vio turned back to the screens and the buttons. Blue was probably right. 

Bright red light filled the room. A harsh noise followed, grating on Vio's ears. He jumped up off of the chair in panic. With the alarm sounding, the system locked down. He'd waited too long and missed his chance. The screens shut down, leaving afterimages in his eyes. 

"What did you do?" Blue snapped from out of sight.

Vio just shook his head. The vent grate in this room had welded joins, and the doors were locked from this direction with or without the passcard, thanks to the alarm. He was trapped. He had a minute or two before Shadow got there, low volume or not. 

"Listen, Blue," Vio said, hooking his fingers into the vent's hexagonal pattern, "Shadow doesn't deserve to die. Shutting down the engine would kill him; he's dependent on its energy."

"That's what you're hung up on? That's what you sacrificed all of this for? Vio, this is Sorcerer Enterprises we're talking about. There's no question about whether they're evil or not."

"I know. That hasn't changed." 

"Then act like it!" 

Vio paused. He heard the outer doors opening and stepped away, but had one more question. "Is Green all right?" 

"Yeah." Blue's voice softened minutely. "He's fine. We all are."

"Good. Get out of sight." 

Blue retreated from the grate, and Vio leaned over the engineering screens again, putting a frantic look on his face and breathing hard. Perhaps he could still salvage this.

The final door slid sideways into the walls, and Shadow stood dramatically in the opening, hands curled into claws and fangs on full display. His eyes flashed, and it looked like solid darkness drifted up his legs. Several masked guards stood behind him. 

Vio met Shadow's eyes, and Shadow immediately lowered his guard, frowning.

"Vio? What are you doing here? How did you get in? Wait"—he shook his head as if dismissing errant thoughts—"Did you see the intruder?"

"I saw a flash of them," Vio lied, standing up straight. "I was up getting a snack in the kitchens, I borrowed your passcard. I saw someone running through, and I took the opportunity to come in and see if they messed anything up." 

Shadow scowled and entered the room to examine the physical engine. He touched a few buttons on the control pad, shutting off the alarm "Probably one of the other two."

"I could go out looking," Vio offered. He took a few steps that way, but the guards still standing there blocked his path, their masks expressionless. 

"They're long gone by now, don't bother. They can't leave the ship anyway." Shadow huffed and went to sit down in the chair Vio had evacuated at the sound of the alarm. He lounged back with a frown. "Why didn't we recapture them when we had the chance? Ugh, I'm so stupid. You were hurt and distracted, you didn't need to think of it. I should have."

Vio tried to look casual as he crossed the room to sit on the desk again. The chip with the meltdown program burned a hole in his pocket. "You're not stupid, Shadow."

Shadow shrugged, then paused. He put a hand up to his ear, and his face did something complicated. "He's what?" he said to whoever had spoken into the speakers in his ears. "Impossible. Vio got him." He scowled. "Fine."

"Everything okay?" Vio asked. 

"Green's alive somehow," Shadow snapped back. He sat up with a rustle and turned the screens back on. "Those idiots. Let's see if we can't get anything from the cameras in here, I guess." 

"There are cameras?" Vio leaned in, trying to sound excited rather than panicking. How could he have overlooked that possibility? Was there anything he could do? Anything at all? If it was all going to come out anyway, perhaps he could take the opportunity to try and explain. 

"Of course there are cameras. I'm not an idiot."

"But I am," Vio said insistently. When Shadow paused and looked at him with confusion, Vio reached under his jacket to adjust the dial on his shoulder. The coils in his suit whirred quietly, increasing the pressure just a little. 

Shadow's eyes frosted suddenly with suspicious dread. He knew that nervous tic. 

Vio barreled on. "I'm an idiot, Shadow. I couldn't—I'd planned—we just—" He couldn't spit out the words. Everything fell apart as he struggled to find the explanations he'd mentally rehearsed over and over again. 

It looked like Shadow was barely listening. He turned back to the screens, and in a few seconds, had the condemning video records playing. Shadow's claws curled into his palms as he watched past-Vio on one screen, and watched the program being written on a second. 

Shadow didn't know a lot, but Vio was sure he knew the force propulsion engine well enough to see exactly what was happening. 

The carefree Shadow who'd purposely made himself dizzy on these chairs just two days ago melted away. He stood up abruptly, and Vio took a step back. 

"Shadow, I just—"

"I don't want to hear it!" Shadow turned on him, eyes flaring red again. One of his hands grabbed his pendant, sending crackling force over his skin, while the other curled back into a threatening claw.

Vio swallowed. He bumped into the far wall, textured with grate, and Shadow advanced. 

"You know perfectly well what that would do to me! You were never on my side, were you?" Cyan sparks flew from Shadow's mouth as he continued to draw on force energy. "You were gathering information, huh? You betrayed your brothers, then you betrayed me! You're not loyal to anyone, are you? Stupid. Selfish. Childish! I can't believe…"

Was he still talking about Vio? Vio's eyes widened with each word. The comforting pressure of the coil suit almost felt suffocating, now, but he didn't dare so much as twitch to fix it. 

Shadow bared his fangs again, force energy all but glowing in his mouth. "You tried to kill me!" 

Apologies and explanations sat heavily on the tip of Vio's tongue, but all that came out was a weak—"Pull back on the force, Shadow, you'll hurt yourself."

The moment stretched as Shadow met his eyes again. Shattered glass stared out at him. A few pieces hung into place, and Shadow looked so desperate to just pretend that none of this had ever happened. 

Vio didn't know what Shadow saw on his own face, but after a second, Shadow's hope puffed into smoke. 

"Traitor." Shadow spun on his heel and stalked toward the exit. To Vio's relief, he did let go of the pendant, cutting off the flow of energy. 

Vio didn't resist much when two masked guards came forward to grab him. They turned him around, pressed him into the wall without sympathy, tore off his jacket, and cuffed his wrists. Even with the coil suit layers, Vio felt horribly vulnerable. He liked that jacket. It lay on the floor near the engine in a sad heap, and he kept his eyes on it for as long as he could, until the guards silently dragged him out of the room. 

Shadow's back didn't respond to anything he tried to say.

Inferno

"Shadow, please."

Red's head snapped up. The group marching below where he'd been exploring had Vio in it, and he didn't sound happy. Fumbling a little, Red pulled his communicator out to message his location to Green and Blue. They'd managed to find an unattended locker room for the guards, and kitted themselves out with sturdy clothing, weapons, and equipment. Blue had messily rewired these communicators to connect to only each other, and hopefully nobody else would tap into the weak signal. 

Both Green and Blue sent acknowledgements almost immediately, so Red channeled his focus into following the group from the vents and being quiet. He knew he wasn't the stealthiest, but he could manage. 

He caught glimpses of the group below him as he crawled over the slatted vents. Shadow walked in front, and Red couldn't see his expression from this angle, but he did not walk like a happy person. Five or six guards pulled Vio along next. Vio tried to speak to Shadow several times, but Shadow never responded, and Vio gave up, walking along in silence. 

The small group paused for a moment at a door Red didn't recognize. He watched Shadow pick up a necklace, which seemed to be the key to getting through. Red waited for them to disappear, then unlatched the vent cover and lowered himself down. He landed on the floor at the same moment that Green appeared from a security door. Blue climbed out of another vent, and Red smiled faintly at the sight of the others.

"They went in there?" Green asked, pointing at the door.

Red nodded. "Just a second ago."

Green cursed and jumped to the security panel. "That's the airlock."

"They're going to throw Vio out?" Red covered his mouth. His other hand tucked into his pocket, where he'd stashed several small-scale explosives. The feel of the smooth cylinders rolling over his fingers gave him confidence. They weren't helpless. 

Blue bumped Red out of the way with his shoulder. "Not if we have anything to say about it." His rather hefty blaster whined as it charged up, and he pointed it right at the doors. 

"I don't know if that will work," Green said, stepping back out of the blast zone.

"Never know unless we try."

Green frowned, but nodded. "When we get in there—Blue, you're on the guards, Red, you get Vio, and I'll try to deal with Shadow."

"Got it," Red said quietly. 

"Three," Blue interrupted, gearing up to try and burn his way into the room. "Two—" 

The doors hissed as the seam widened. Red tensed, and next to him, Green readied out a blaster of his own. 

Blur shot through the opening, seeing something that Red didn't. But Red trusted him, so he grabbed his weapon, too—not the explosives. He'd snagged a small pistol in that locker room, a pistol that he didn't use except to brandish, as if he could be intimidating. 

The door continued to open, revealing the guards who'd apparently wanted to walk through. Blue had blasted one of them, but the remaining few turned at the shot. Thick glass separated into hexagons by strong plastic made up the wall on the opposite side of the room, the only door still lit up green from closing. 

As Red had feared, Vio stood behind that glass, one button press away from being lost forever. He picked himself up from where he'd been tossed, having a difficult time due to the cuffs still on his wrists. Shadow whipped around at the sound of the door opening, his odd eyes bright and wide with anger—and, Red thought, hurt. He was not a happy person right now. 

The fight had already begun the moment Blue shot. All of the guards had their weapons put away, putting them on the back foot. Green slapped Red's back as he ran forward to engage Shadow, and Red nodded, hanging back to watch for a moment longer and see where he was needed. 

Blue attacked the guards straight-on. A second one fell, but then he had to go on the defensive. He scattered a string of cubes ahead of him, and a blue barrier shimmered into existence along the string. The barrier took a few hits before Blue started shooting back. Red knew it wouldn't last forever. 

Green wove through the fight, eyes trained on Shadow, who saw him coming and took the bait to move away from the controls that would kill Vio. Shadow bared short fangs at Green as he lunged, snarling about him being alive. Darkness gathered around him in an aura that was almost tangible. 

Their fight gave Red an opening to run in and get close to the door. Locked, of course. He gave Vio a smile, getting an admirable attempt at one in return, then turned to the control screen. 

It looked like Shadow had left it a scant few seconds before opening the outside hatch. Red's heart rate shot up as he realized how close they'd come, but the screen was still open, so he quickly reversed the pressure command inside the airlock and opened the door. It popped open, and Vio kicked it the rest of the way. 

"Hey, Vio," Red said brightly, reaching around him to look at the cuffs. "We're here to rescue you!" 

"I noticed. What's the plan?" 

Red found the release mechanism with a noise of victory. It needed two hands, so he put his pistol down to squeeze both switches at once. "Green distracts Shadow, Blue distracts the guards, I get you out."

"That's it?" Vio pulled his hands away as soon as the cuffs clicked open. "It's a wonder you got anything done without me."

"We were pressed for time. We missed you." Red ducked as a stray bolt singed his hair. "Grab my pistol there, I bet your aim is better than mine, since you managed to hit Green's tube thingy so specifically."

Vio took it off the floor and powered it up. He nodded. "We need a real plan."

Red pulled out a few of his smallest explosives, wanting to help but unsure how to do so. "Okay, but I don't have one."

"Oh, those are mini lava charges, aren't they?" Vio asked, looking down at what Red held. 

"Yes, mid-range ones with timed and remote detonators."

"Then the new plan is to throw one of those with a ten-second timer, get Green and Shadow out of there, and let the charge take care of the rest."

That sounded just fine to Red. He nodded, then fiddled with one of the charges as Vio took out one of the guards. Only three still stood, but they clearly were the smart ones. That might make this a bit difficult. Still, he set the timer on the little cylinder-shaped casing and rolled it out past Vio's feet. 

Blue noticed it, swore, and ducked behind his barrier to feed it a few more force capsules. It cost him precious seconds, but Vio's aim with that pistol actually was very good. The guard that had tried to take advantage of the opening had to turn around and face this new threat, instead. 

"Green!" Red called. Green didn't look over, involved fully with dodging Shadow's increasingly desperate attacks, but he did pull some attention away from his fight. He seemed to notice the charge rolling to a stop just a few feet away. He changed direction. 

Red held the detonator in his hands carefully. The charge did have its timer, but he could set it off earlier or later with this, if he needed to. 

Green shot out a pipe above his head, and steam billowed out. He dove away, landing on the floor next to Red. "Do it!" 

At his command, Red pushed the button with both thumbs. 

"Wait!" Vio snapped, just half a moment too late. 

Red remembered Link's first visit to Eldin. In his memories, he was warm even under the suit he and all the other non-Gorons wore so they wouldn't burst into flame. He'd been young, a new recruit to the Hylian army on his first batch of missions away from his father. 

While the Minish diplomat they'd been sent to escort spoke with the Goron elders, something about precious metals and handling, Link and Zelda, on video call from the castle on the Plains, visited the workshops nearby. He'd been mildly interested in the forges, but the explosives they'd been making fascinated him to no end. One of the craftsmen took him on a short tour through the facility, telling him about each different charge and how they worked. 

Lava charges almost cost more than they were worth. True to their name, little balls held actual, compressed molten rock inside, little bits of magic powered by force keeping it liquid and contained. When detonated, a small needle pierced the ball, releasing the compression. The lava burst out in splatters, igniting the cold gas that surrounded the ball. It quickly cooled, but the gas bloomed in a very predictable shape.

Their safety made these explosions unique—the gas burned hot, but not for very long, and one could stand very near the bubble with only a minor risk of lava splatter. 

A few bits of molten rock landed near Red's foot, but didn't actually touch him. He shielded his eyes with one hand. He could actually feel the rush of warmth, despite the implant, though the rush of sound blocked out anything else. 

Fire burst upward into a tall sphere, hampered somewhat by the steam from the pipes above, but the last two guards disappeared into the explosion.

But so did Shadow. 

Red didn't have any particular emotional attachment to Shadow. He would probably call him a mostly-enemy, someone he didn't trust but was willing to give a chance. He did have an emotional attachment to Vio, though, and the look of horror on his face tugged violently at Red's heart. 

The explosion cleared out after a few seconds, leaving a haze in the air, black smoke and white steam curling around each other like little Rito children taking their first flights. The ground and the walls blackened. Blue's barrier flickered out, finally spent. 

Red was glad that he couldn't feel temperature very well anymore. He was sure ice slid down his back and into his stomach as he watched Vio stumble forward toward the smallest of the charred corpses. He still couldn't hear much, though the temporary deafness began to fade, but he saw Vio's stony face. 

Slowly, Vio crouched and hesitantly reached out. He laid gentle fingers on the neck, as if to check for a pulse. Red didn't think he'd find one. 

Several things had not burned as badly. Shadow's jacket had protected some of him, though not enough to save his life. His boots stuck to the floor, the rubber in them half-melted. Bits of white bone poked from the mess of flesh like jagged rocks out of mud. 

Vio next reached for the necklace that still pulsed a weak blue on what was left of Shadow's chest. He picked it up, then dropped it with a gasp as it sparked. Where the pendant touched, more flesh sizzled, and it sank down through the sternum. 

Biting his lip, Red got to his feet. It smelled awful in here, like meat and burning rubber and ammonia. Besides Vio, he was the first to move, and he felt the eyes of both Green and Blue on him as he stood and made his way over to Vio, who glanced at him, barely frowning. Red sat down next to Vio, near but not pressing in. 

Red's hearing had mostly come back, enough that he heard himself whisper. "I'm sorry."

Vio shrugged one shoulder. "It's okay. It's not really your fault. I… I was planning on killing him, too."

"Still." Red let the silence hang. 

"We need to kill Vaati," Vio said, leaning back on his heels. "This is our best chance. Guards will be here any second, and he'll be distracted, I hope."

"Yeah." Red set his hand on Vio's shoulder, and didn't get pushed off, which he took as an invitation to lean in a little. "...are you okay?" 

Vio clearly didn't know how to respond. He stared ahead, then after a long few seconds, he nodded. "I will be." 

"We should go," Green said, breaking the spell. 

"Right. I did a lot of research that I should share with you." Vio stood up abruptly, turning his back on what was left of Shadow 

Blue ushered them out of the room. "And I have more weapons to grab before we take on Vaati, come on."

The only one to look back before the door shut was Red.

[soulmate-game]

New fic *test*

New Bio!dad Bruce story? I’m testing out this first chapter, and if I like where it’s going I might add it to my growing pile of WIPs. If I have inspiration, I might as well use it. Because of life events stressing me the hell out, I’m throwing any writing plans out the window and I’m purely gonna write to destress right now. Whether that means updating THG or not, or continuing Maribat March, we’ll just have to see how this all pans out. Things are subject to day-to-day change.

I got inspiration from this from rereading my day 1 story for Bio!dad Bruce Wayne month from last year. I’m just gonna change a few things.

—*—*—*—*—*

For once, an unfamiliar face attracted the attention of everyone who caught even a glimpse of them. It wasn’t even because of the person themselves at first, but their dress. The skirt like the most fantastical of storybook ball gowns, fluffy layers of satin over a luxurious petticoat, with a stunning pink floral pattern whose busy appearance was tastefully offset by a shorter, sheer layer of leaf green tulle artistically weaved and somehow sculpted over the floral in order to tame it. The effect turned what should be a grandmotherly pattern into something softer, sophisticated and youthful and yet also reminiscent of fairytale princesses. Over top the short layer of green tulle was an even shorter later of white tulle, almost invisible except for the elegant embroidery of crystal-white vines that twined all over it, connecting the green below it to the bottom-most floral pattern and oddly adding a layer of childishness instead of maturity. At the waist of the dress was a dark plum pink satin ribbon, to separate the elaborate ballgown skirt from the bodice. Attached to the simple ribbon was a large brooch of fabric flowers, with a single plastic ladybug in the center.

The bodice of the dress came up into a cheongsam neckline, but was sleeveless. It was a simple design, of half green and half dark pink, with a white border separating the two. The white border had expertly done embroideries in a soft silver thread that would only be visible close up, the images the thread made being that of fairies and ladybugs dancing around one another.

It was, all in all, a stunning display that made the small eurasian woman wearing them look like absolute royalty. Perhaps a long lost fairy princess. Her black-blue hair was even done up in elaborate looping braids and a braided bun, with silver and green pins that further completed the regal ensemble. And yes, while the expertly done dress was what initially captivated her current audience, it was not what kept them from leaving her alone. That was all her personality, bubbly and bright as her blinding smile. It was a sunny disposition that very few people present had any exposure to at all, and it drew them like a sunflower to the daylight. They could not help but flock closer, or even just stand back and keep themselves turned to her presence. Already she had been at the gala for two hours, but there was no issue. She just kept proving her generosity, admitting she had donated both a dress and a suit of her own making to the charity auction that would begin soon, one of the main attractions of the gala. She skillfully charmed the more snooty of the attendants, and artfully twisted her words so that they felt compelled to donate more money that they truly had no use for. Later, they would remember their donation and wonder what compelled it, but come up with no satisfying answer.

And yet she was entirely unaware of her more silent audience, who stood back and observed. Truth be told, every one of them was glad to not be the center of that attention for a change, to have room to breathe for so long at an event where usually that commodity was so scarce that it demanded a fierce competition for. Compared to her garden of color, they were all shadows in shades of blacks and blues and whites, with a touch of red here and there that was entirely too thematic for their home city. The one who sported a royal blue suit tilted his head at the scene they were all calmly witnessing, his bright azure eyes glittering.

“She’s like magic,” he mused, clearly enchanted despite having not said a single word to the woman. “Perfect socialite. She’s kind, generous, she made that dress and the ones she donated to the auction herself so she’s obviously got an intimidating amount of skill for her age. She even tricks those old fuddy-duddies into spending money. It’s like a dream come true!”

“I don't trust it,” the one to his right said, a man just a few inches shorter in a classic black suit with a red dress shirt underneath. He absently swept his bangs away from his face as he narrowed his eyes at the woman. “It seems too perfect. She doesn’t have any identifiable character flaw, except maybe being a little clumsy and too energetic. She does babble a little… but nothing that actually suggests any depth besides her just being— good. That’s impossible, and I don’t trust it.”

“Tt. I agree with Drake for once. She seems entirely too comfortable with this setting, despite her blushes and rambles,” the one who spoke this like was taller, clearly a teen in the middle of his growth spurt. He, too, wore a plain black suit but his had subtle charcoal embroidery and he wore an emerald-green dress shirt under it that made his matching eyes gleam dangerously. “It seems almost playacted. Expertly so, but nonetheless not entirely genuine.”

“Wow, not many pick up on that. I’m gonna give your observations a solid eight out of ten. They’re all perfectly sound, but not quite complete,” a new voice made all of the silent group stiffen— somehow they had been snuck up on. The newcomer smirked at them as if having fully expected their reaction but still being pleased at being able to evoke it. This was yet another stunner; far too much color in her outfit to be a Gotham native, and far too much skill in the construction for it to signify anything less than extreme influence. She had bright golden-blond hair that was coiled into a low bun, with her bangs artfully curled and arranged to display her crystal blue eyes.

In contrast to the garden-themed dress of the Eurasian woman who had garnered their attention at first, this newcomer was wearing a pantsuit. It was all in a dark honey-gold, in a stiff fabric with construction that made it lay entirely in perfect, straight lines and hug her form in the right places. Black embroidery decorated the long, flared sleeves and pant legs and dripped around the square neckline like a faux necklace. A cape made out of the same material as the rest of the pantsuit was draped on one shoulder. It started out as the same honey-gold color, but it became a gradient as it faded to a solid black at the ends. Gold thread embroidery decorated the solid black bottom of the cape in delicate, deceptively simplistic swirls. The top half of the pantsuit was clearly inspired by military garb, simultaneously rigidly constructed yet fitted, with circular onyx buttons going down the center of the chest and a thick metal belt, all in swirling silver and black, sat perfectly clasped around her waist. It was far more solid-colored and simplistic compared to the fairytale dress in the center, but no less show stopping and luxurious. It simply showcased an entirely different attitude, almost as if the two women could never get along if their personalities matched their outfits.

“And who are you?” The man who had been the center of the group of shadow-like adults spoke up, back straightening to milk every speck of his generous six-feet-and-three-inches of height. This was none other than Bruce Wayne, the host of this annual charity gala. And normally, his current stance would either intimidate or utterly charm whoever it was directed at— but not this pantsuit-clad blond warrior. Her smirk merely widened, and her blue eyes took on a slight shade of teal as if trying to mimic the dangerous ocean depths.

“I am Chloe Bourgeois, the daughter of Andre Bourgeois, the mayor of Paris, and Audrey Bourgeois, the Style Queen. It’s nice to meet you again, Monsieur Wayne,” she introduced herself imperiously. “I also happen to be the best friend of the girl you were just staring at.”

Bruce nodded, but had trouble reconciling this clear powerhouse of a woman with the bratty and entitled preteen he had met years ago, at the last gala she had attended with her mother. “Of course, I didn’t recognize you at first Chloe. You’ve grown a lot since the last Gala I saw you at.”

Chloe wrinkled her nose, clearly not appreciating the reminder. “I was a bitch,” she admitted easily, seemingly not at all bothered by the confession. It caused not only Bruce but also the oldest three of his sons, who had all also met her in the past, to blink in silent shock. “Things have changed. Paris is apparently the perfect chaotic environment right now to promote emotional growth and smack spoiled kids over the head with reality,” she shrugged. Part of the reason her and her whole class had even been able to come to the Gala in the first place was the fact that Bruce wanted to offer the most attacked group of Parisians a respite and some support from their crazy lives. The fact that even Gotham seemed sane in comparison to Paris was a bit of a hard hit for both involved parties, but in the end everyone understood that “more sane” didn’t always equate with “less dangerous.” Considering all that, Chloe had no reason to sugarcoat the situation in her home city. “But it wasn’t easy at all, and Marinette was largely responsible for my improvement too.”

“Marinette?” The heathen who somehow got away with attending a gala in a black leather jacket over a dress shirt and suit pants asked, raising a brow. Chloe nodded.

“The girl you were just goggling at. Marinette Dupain-Cheng, the class president and resident workaholic. Does she ever sleep? Nobody knows,” Chloe shrugged.

The blue-suited man, Dick Grayson, shot a suspicious glance at Tim, who was standing to his right, as if he was worried his brother had made a female clone of himself just so he could continue to work hard and never rest. Tim ignored him and sipped from the thermos of coffee he had somehow snuck in.

Bruce cleared his throat to bring the focus back onto himself, and shot his most charming smile at Chloe. “They would have known who she was, if they had read the brief information I gave them about your class. But they never do listen to me,” he complained with good humor. “But back to the original topic, Miss Bourgeois, do you care to correct us on how our observations are lacking?”

Chloe laughed easily, smiling and nodding to indicate Marinette, still stuck in a circle of socialites and not seeming the least bit worn out.

“Of course. First; She is not completely acting. She really is like magic sometimes— disgustingly kind, generous, far too willing to help just about anyone for just about any reason. She’s one of the best people I’ve ever met, as much as it pains me to admit it. But she is exaggerating her personality a bit and hiding the parts she doesn’t want anyone to see, so there is a little acting involved. Just not as much as you seem to think,” Chloe then waved her arm in a flourish as if she were presenting Marinette to them. “In short; behold Mari Dupain-Cheng, the ridiculously likeable, disgustingly cute, extremely philanthropic mask that she shows everyone at public events like this. You don’t see any of the insomnia, or the anxiety, or the self doubt. Just the parts she wants you to see, accompanied with a smile to blind you to everything else,” her all-too-deep blue eyes settled back on Bruce then, a knowing glint shining in them. “Don’t you think that’s ridiculously similar to Brucie Wayne for you, Monsieur? Utterly, ridiculously, similar?”

Bruce grit his teeth. He hadn’t expected anyone else to know about his exceptionally well hidden secret, not even his kids had caught on or found his buried evidence yet. Yet his heiress comes up, nearly flaunting her knowledge in his face with all too many unspoken questions and criticisms.

And her cryptic words had succeeded in making all of his kids look at him with extreme suspicion. Shit.

“What are you saying, Miss Bourgeois?” he cautiously prodded. She hummed noncommittally before dropping the bomb all too casually;

“I’m saying I’ve seen her adoption papers, and you won’t be able to run from her for long Monsieur Wayne. As soon as she gets an opening, she’s going to pounce,” Chloe’s eyes glittered dangerously again. “And nowadays, Marinette doesn’t ever let people escape her. Your problem with adoption has created a rather unique problem, you know. You’re at fault for a large majority of her self confidence issues, and I want you to know that I am not going to forget or forgive that anytime soon.”

“Bruce,” Jason’s voice was dark and threatening. “What is she talking about?”

“Something we don’t want getting in the tabloids,” Yet another new voice popped up, allowing Chloe to smugly sink back into the background.

Somewhere during their discussion, Marinette had ambushed them.

“Chloe and I are very good at locating all the reporters in a room and distracting them, but we’re not infallible and this event has far too much coverage,” Her smile reeked confidence and charm, but this close all the Waynes could see the doubt hiding in her bluebell eyes. “Since I’m about to turn eighteen, I figured this would be as good a time as any to finally confront you. I want to make it clear that I seek nothing from you, except the occasional contact. I would like to keep in touch, if nothing else. But if you are adverse to that… then at least answer my questions after the gala,” her eyes developed a hint of carefully controlled desperation. “Please.”

Bruce met her eyes evenly, trying to read her. But she was difficult, simultaneously too many emotions to sort through in her demeanor and much too little. After an extremely tense moment of silence, his voice came out barely above a whisper:

“You do not want anybody to know?”

And hell, if she didn’t recognize the hidden vulnerability in his voice as the very same she heard in her own far too often. In a much tamer version of her own rambling, he went on:

“I can keep it silent if that is what you want. But I want you to know that I will not be adverse to you admitting it anywhere. I don’t expect you to change your name, but I would not be ashamed of the truth getting out. I am not ashamed of it, of you.”

Marinette’s smile grew a little watery. She had to clear her throat to keep herself from tearing up. “Maybe eventually, but not yet. I… I want to stay a little more anonymous for now. It’s one thing to be a well known designer with good connections. It’s an entirely different thing to be…”

“A Wayne?” Bruce finished, ignoring the daggers that were being stared into his back. “I understand completely.

“Father,” Damian’s voice was all sharp edges and rapidly suppressed panic. “What. Is going. On?”

Marinette shot him an apologetic smile. “Apparently, eighteen years ago, his prerogative was to put the child he actually knew about up for adoption when the mother died in childbirth,” her voice was once again only barely loud enough for them to hear, since she didn’t want any eavesdroppers. “Imagine my surprise when I find out he completely flipped sides only months later.”

--*--*--*--*--*

Hey, so please share your feedback on this. This is just to test out a possible new bio dad, multichapter fic and this is the opening scene I'm trying out. If you like it, please tell me what you like about it and please suggest titles for the story! I love you guys' feedback so much!

[sugar-petals]

SuperM Fluff & NSFW Notes

↳ 🌹aka some of their romantic antics plus random 18+ imagines 👋

warnings ⚠️ rated (super) m, boyfriends hc, porn mentions, partial fem!reader, sex toys

FLUFF

since baekhyun knows how to make scented candles, he creates one for you as a birthday present with your favorite fragrances.

every entry in mark’s diary involves fond thoughts about you.

taemin kisses you more than his cat kkoongie on a daily basis so let that sink in. his smooch obsession is getting out of hand.

lucas, having giant fingers after all, learns how to knit in order to make you a warm scarf. he’s still a bit clumsy with it and had to call kun for advice, but the result is surprisingly proper and quickly becomes your favorite item. it’s a little huge but well, he thinks in his dimensions. lucas’ next project is a beanie.

ten overwhelms you with pet names. in fact, he seemingly seems to come up with a new one each day.

kai is a candlelight dinner, rose petals and music kinda guy. he does every old-school thing in the book.

taeyong can cuddle endlessly in bed. he just doesn’t wanna leave.

lucas gladly shares his sweaters. they’re ginormous so, perfect cuddle material.

baekhyun is already a fool. so — when he falls in love, he becomes an even bigger fool. or, the contrary happens: he becomes dead silent around his partner because he’s so enthralled. he can take this more seriously than you think.

mark likes to write little cards and many many texts to express his love.

lucas is the type who can help you put on your jeans when they were shrinking a bit too much in the dryer. he’s pretty sexy like that and things can get really touchy.

cheesy fucking kai, and there’s only one guy who would do this, has actually lowered himself over a puddle once so you would have a bridge. brushed it off like a daily workout rep.

not one shower missed without baekhyun joining you. yes, it’s not always sexy time, he likes it when you shampoo his hair and whisper sweet nothings. and obviously: it’ll all devolve to a laughing fit.

taeyong is the type who wants to be proposed to.

taemin will get a motorcycle license and take you for a frequent ride. he loves getting those kind of back hugs.

both ten and lucas are great at making bracelets. wayv’s dorm is fully equipped with charms, strings, and pearls, so expect matching ones for you.

we’ve seen it, that one’s his favorite move. kai wraps his hand around your shoulder when you walk together.

mark will ALWAYS share his melon.

making you swoon on a DVD evening is lucas’ favorite hobby. he will buy you the most sugary-sweet romance movies. he will often browse streaming sites to select the latest sentimental plots. all these dramas seem to have a male lead who is suspiciously tall and lanky.

if you allow him, taeyong customizes your white tees with his cute drawings.

since taemin swims in money thanks to his profession as the god of kpop (yes, this is a registered job name because i say so), he can fulfill you any wish. he’s stingy and pouty when the shinee hyungs can pay, and the motherfucker baekhyun is even richer since his albums have been taking off so he opens his mochi wallet when superm is gathered, but you... are a different case. taemin will humbly empty his entire pockets when he overhears you gushing over something. there’s a voice in his mind going: must splurge!!

mark loves christmas, you establish an annual tradition to stage a whole couple evening.

baekhyun likes to play charades and especially do karaoke with you. he’s always cutely wiggling his butt and dances like a drunk uncle. he hits the high notes anyway and makes sure you score 100 points.

taeyong can make out with you while at the same time making sure that the milk doesn’t get burned on the stove. kiss’n’stirr multitask tyong alert. gotta make sure the cocoa is served in time, you know.

all the members enjoy playing board games. yep, imagine the fun and sheer chaos.

lucas has the funniest laugh ever indeed. he’ll react to all your jokes, no matter how lame they might be. intensely reassuring.

taemin’s hand is basically glued to yours.

taeyong and mark are the kinds of boyfriends that spoil their partner with skincare. fancy a nice face massage with a nice fragrant oil?

baekhyun has been baking heart-shaped pizzas ever since you started dating. he just can’t make them round anymore.

mark will join you on anything you’re currently bingewatching. 

kai sometimes — only half-jokingly — goes down on both knees bowing forward with his hands on the ground just to show how much he wants to thank you. in case you didn’t notice: this guy treats you like a deity.

ten usually gets confused glances from the other members whenever he gets the current date wrong: he simply loses track of time with you.

lucas makes a habit of buying you flowers every other week. but on unpredictable occasions, and he arranges them in places you’d never expect.

taemin will build you a weird-looking snowman to make you laugh, and give it an even stranger name. ten will build one that looks like you. kai doesn’t build snowmen, he just stands there challenging you to throw snow balls at him.

mark will hang out with you at the beach constantly bringing his guitar. he’ll serenade you all the time.

returning from three months of touring, baekhyun has once climbed your balcony when your parents were in the other room. yep, he was that desperate to see you. somebody give this man a rope and helmet.

taeyong writes down heartfelt confessions on 365 folded slips of paper so you can open one every day. your reactions will range from ‘awwh!’ to straight-up tears.

ten does regular couple yoga with you. a mildly challenging form, not the circus acrobat version. he’ll do the difficult parts anyway. you can pretzel this guy up, he’ll do anything to make you laugh.

when it rains you hook your arm around his, and lucas always holds the umbrella. even the wildest gush of wind can’t make it turn inside out. you arrive home entirely dry. xuxi is so cute, he’s also a great source of cooling shadow in the summer without even trying.

taemin’s skinship overdrive doesn’t stop with endless hand-holding, back hugs and kisses. he wants to lay down in your lap whenever he can. he looks damn pretty with his hair splaying there. if you work on your laptop, you can pretty much count to ten and he’s already nestled there.

kai does pushups with you on his back. it’s a staple. each time he does one, he says ‘i love you’. he increases his count every day.

NSFW

it’s no secret that taeyong is great at acting or pulling off any outfit and costume. expect roleplay of the finest kind — literally. he looks good in a firefighter uniform. you’ll be burning up pretty much automatically.

taemin can’t keep his tongue in. it’s terrible. he’s always in the mood for head. his sloppy noises are the absolute worst, it turns you on way too fast.

lucas had some major problems finding condoms that fit him.

ten and taemin are so switchy, they have an unresolved power struggle going on. begs for a dominant third party to help them out.

kai owns expensive latex gear.

baekhyun may be the king of vocals and breath technique, but if you push him far enough he does get hoarse.

taemin often jokes how kai will one day break his dick from fucking too hard.

meanwhile, mark’s dick is already falling off – from fucking too often. this guy has some major hormones going for him. no surprise, a guy who can promote in four kpop groups at the same time is a stamina king.

taeyong likes eating pussy with another party involved. three’s a crowd my friend. sometimes it’s taemin who unleashes his spit waterfall power, sometimes it’s baekhyun who preoccupies himself with nibbling at the inner thigh while taeyong digs in.

taemin owns the most underwear.

mark takes valerian drops because he is so nervous in bed. it never really goes away, it’s his nature.

taeyong keeps a lube collection. a different flavor for all occasions. he likes associating certain scents with specific body parts.

kai has a heels kink. he literally goes wild over it.

taemin likes to have sex with favorite glasses on.

taeyong and kai are the most likely to cry during sex. baekhyun as well if you rough him up enough. 

mark gets rock hard the fastest, followed by kai. he’s a grower.

taeyong gets the best inspiration for a song when he gets a casual dick riding.

taemin watches extremely x-rated erotic thrillers and bdsm flicks that are heavy on the plot. he gets more invested in the characters and actors than you think. since his japanese is amazing? of course he also owns a giant 90s hentai collection. 

when he’s jerking off, baekhyun chokes himself. a) because he’d make too much noise otherwise and b) because asphyxiation is his favorite thing.

kai feels pleasure in his every cell. he cums the hardest. and, as you can expect, his body expresses it the most extremely, accurately, passionately. if you’ve seen it even once, you’ll never look at him the same again.

taemin has less experience than his discography claims, but more than you’d think. he researches sexual techniques as well. you can brace yourself.

mark has not just a tiger inside, but a freak inside, waiting to be unleashed.

sex while gaming is a go-to activity for baekhyun.

lucas has the best stamina when it comes to getting head.

taemin throws his head back during sex. and no, he doesn’t T-pose. i’m kidding — of course he does. but only when he’s on his back.

taeyong tends to grip a pillow when he cums.

or he humps one when he’s by himself.

ten has the best taste in sexy time playlists.

baekhyun has the best taste in singing his own playlist along.

oh, the things kai has bought at a gas station at 3AM.

baekhyun sucks strap the best. he can open his mouth the widest, drools a lot, and makes the best noises unsurprisingly.

how to turn on lee taemin? he likes getting slapped.

since he’s the most avid and most diverse eater, lucas’ sperm tastes the best. he’s shove 50 fruits into his system just to give you a sweet experience.

mark is absolutely a starfish. 

kai wears fishnet tops if you fancy it.

curiously, baekhyun out of all people doesn’t announce when he’s cumming. you’ll hear it, though.

taeyong’s dildo collection is one for the books.

taemin has visited a pro dominatrix a couple times. needless to say, he was the #1 favorite client at the dungeon. having fully submerged into a fantasy world, taemin was one whip crack away from falling in love with the mistress. but then covid happened and the venue closed.

mark’s dick looks really pretty.

taemin can grind on the strap at every humanly possible angle. he’s almost always ready to take it. he carries a prep kit.

kai — that fucker — knows how to make you wet the most with his bare hands. prepare for the thigh ride of your life, too.

taeyong, baekhyun, and taemin have the best arches. kai is coming for the top three as well. ten’s arch is so good, it can’t be considered one anymore.

baekhyun knows every adult movie out there. theoretically, nothing can shock him. in reality, he melts in your hands.

taeyong is so sexually active with you, he has quit eating garlic.

kai will exploit your muscle kink in any way he can.

taemin, being a devil, has that one button on his phone that he can press when you go out for dinner. he’s OBSESSED with getting you off. once you head home, it’s basically running down your thighs.

ten has once opened a condom with scissors to scare away a date that grew weird on him by the time it got to the do.

lucas is too tall for doing missionary normally.

this will surprise nobody: mark is great at constantly keeping up the dirty talk.

baekhyun’s car is sort of like a brothel on wheels. he can’t count how many times he got down and dirty in there. he cleans it all up by himself.

kai can technically grip you the hardest but he’s the gentlest and great at caressing the whole body.

taemin has the easiest time saying what precisely he wants. he is also the best people reader — most your wishes he can pretty intuit. taemin observes your interests well.

ten likes his hair pulled and makes angelic noises when you do so.

baekhyun likes camgirls and erotic chats with strangers online. he spends a lot of money for nsfw internet encounters.

[dakarimainink]

Brownies At 2 AM

WARNING: 18+, smut, explicit descriptions/depictions, fingering, fucking with a hint of roughness, orgasm, bodily fluids, lots of bodily fluids just sayin'

Pairing: Pedro Pascal x You (Reader)

Wordcount: 3.9K

Note: Not betad, all mistakes are my own. I've had this idea for a while and considered doing a fluff for it, but considering the hopeless slut I am, it became a smut instead.

Pedro wakes up to find you missing from your bed.

Masterlist

Ugh, just look at those eyes😩

Pedro rolls over and reaches to your side of the bed. His hand grasp at the sheets you share. His eyes snap open as he realises you’re not lying there. A sense of panic shoots through him.

It’s still night and a sliver of moonlight crosses the bed as he sits up. His eyes wander over the bed before glancing at the on suite bathroom. He feels his heart drop as he can’t see any light come from under the door. He wonders where you can be, before sliding out of bed.

As he bends down to pick up his shirt from the floor, he finds it missing from where he left it. He furrows his brows and looks around but can’t seem to find it. He walks over to the closet and pulls out a white t-shirt and puts it on. The cotton of the fabric feels soft against his skin. He glances at the bed to make sure he isn’t dreaming before leaving the bedroom to look for you.

He feels a slight tingle of worry spike through his gut as he walks down the dark corridor. He has never found you missing from bed before and his eyes dart to the cracks under each passing door, looking for a light that can shine through. Nothing. He swallows thickly as he picks up his pace towards the stairs.

He stops at the foot of the stairs as he sees the figure of your back and head sitting on the sofa in the dark. Your left side is gently lit up by the silver moon and he admires you for a moment. He feels relief knowing you weren’t gone or that you had left him.

“Y/N, what are you doing up so late?” He walks up to the sofa and places a hand on top of your head, stroking it softly. Your hair feels soft against the palm of his hand.

You can’t help but let out a sigh at his touch and your eyes close, revelling at his gentle strokes. “I just couldn’t sleep.” You explain as you open your eyes. They wander across the garden outside the windows.

“I was worried you had left.”

His words tear at your heart and you turn your head to look up at him. Your eyes immediately lock and you can see a hint of fear lingering on his gaze. “I will never leave you, Pedro.” You reassure him. You have been together for three years and the love between you keeps growing somehow. You find it hard to imagine a life without him now.

He bends down and softly kisses your lips. You straighten your back to deepen it and lift one hand to the back of his head. Your fingers tangle with his unruly locks as you feel a warmth envelop your heart.

He ends the kiss and presses his forehead to yours, his breath mingling with yours as you take a moment to just breathe. “Why don’t we go back to bed?” He rises his hand and presses it to your cheek, his thumb lazily swiping back and forth.

You bite your lower lip, having other plans in mind. “Why don’t we bake instead?” You suggest, a hidden smile spreading across your lips.

He stands back up and you can see his confused expression in the moonlight. You let out a short giggle that made a smile grow on his lips. He can’t resist the wonderful sound coming from your mouth and it makes him want to kiss you again.

“What are we going to bake?” He asks curiously.

You bite your lip again, already knowing what you want to make. You have been thinking about it for a long time, not the actually act of baking, but baking together at 2 AM in your underwear. It had been a reappearing fantasy of yours. You thought it would be somewhat romantic.

“Brownies.” You chime and turn around in the sofa. You stand up on your knees and lean on the back of the sofa, looking up at him.

He wraps his arms around you and pull you over the edge. “Brownies it is then.” He smirks as you squeal out in joy and following it with a giggle. He places you down on the floor and kisses your forehead. He stills, his hands on your hips as his eyes roam the shirt you’re wearing. “Is that my shirt?” He asks with a raised eyebrow.

“Maybe.” You tease and fiddle with the hem of the shirt. “It was conveniently on the floor when I got up.”

“Mhm.” He hums sarcastically. “Very convenient I must say.”

You know he loves seeing you in his clothes. Something in him burns whenever he finds you in any of his apparels, whether it be boxers, shirts, trousers or sweaters, he loves it all. Very often than not, he would end up fucking you in it, but tonight, it was honestly a coincidence you had put on his shirt.

“Go on then, lead the way.” He smirks and strokes his fingertips along your arm. It sends a delicious spike through your spin and goosebumps appear on your skin. You take a deep breath, trying not to fall for his soft touches.

You turn around and begin to walk towards the kitchen, your hips purposefully swinging. As he follows you close by, he gives your ass a light smack and a small yelp escape your lips. You look over your shoulder, giving him a don’t-you-dare-do-that-again look. He reaches forward to smack it once more, but you skip forward as he aims for your ass again.

“I don’t think so, Mr. Pascal.” You wink at him and give him a playful smile. He matches the same look and you know his intentions. He leaps forward to catch you, but you jump to the side and playfully run towards the kitchen as he chases you. Giggles and chuckling filling the silent room.

Rounding the kitchen counter, he grabs your wrist and pulls you to him. He spins you around and crashes his lips onto yours. His hands roam over your body until they settle on your ass and he pulls you closer to his own. He makes sure to squeeze and knead them as your tongues dance. You feel he’s already semi-hard and the dirty thoughts popping into your head makes you smirk.

You push yourself away from his grasp and bite your lip, taking a few deep breaths to calm down. “Brownies.” You remind him and a hint of disappointment flickers in his eyes, but he accepts defeat. If you want to bake brownies then brownies will be baked.

You turn around to the cupboard to find the ingredients you need. He steps over to the fridge and picks out some eggs and the milk carton. As he turns, he finds you have already managed to find all the other ingredients. All you need now is a bowl and a wisp.

“Can you turn on the oven and I’ll get the bowl?” You suggest and turn over to the cupboards again before he can reply. You open it up but can’t seem to find the bowl you are seeking. “Where is the bowl?” You ask.

Pedro stops for a moment to think as he turns on the oven. “Try the cabinet in the corner.” He suggests and walks to the drawers to get the wisp. The light from the oven leaves a warm glow and casting lazy shadows from your bodies.

You step over to the cabinet and open it up. At the very top, the bowl in question is waiting to be plucked down. You let out a sigh before getting on your tippy toes to reach for it. Your fingertips graze the surface of the bowl, but you are not in the mood to get a chair to stand on. You have done it before, you can do it again.

Pedro presses his body up against your back as he reaches over you and grab the bowl. A surprised gasp sounds from your throat. You feel his semi-hard erection press up against your back and a low moan leaves your mouth. Out of instinct, your body moves back against him, feeling his warmth envelop you. He tilts his head down and places his lips near your ear. “Brownies.” He whispers, sending an irritatingly delicious shiver down your spine. He gives your ear a nibble before he steps back, leaving you cold as he walks over to the counter with the ingredients.

He places down the bowl and looks over at you. He leans onto the kitchen countertop with a cocky smirk as he sees the irritation linger on your face. “Your words, love. Not mine.” He teases you before looking for a pot to place on the hob.

You lightly stomp your way over to him and pull out a cutting board and knife. You pick up the butter and cut it up in smaller pieces along with the chocolate. You lick your lips as you anticipate the taste of the brownie, making your mouth water and you swallow.

Pedro places the pot on the stove, halfway filled with water and he begins cracking the eggs and mixing it with the sugar in the bowl provided. He reaches for the last egg when your hands brush up against each other as you reach for the white chocolate. The touch sends tingles through your body and your eyes glimpses at each other.

As you continue to bake, barely saying a word, you brush up against each other, feeling each other’s heat and desires build up. His cock grows harder in his boxers with each passing moment and your cavern continues to drip, soaking your panties. This little dance of a foreplay has you both stepping on the edge, both at the verge of falling over. But you are both determined that this is only about baking and nothing else.

He pours the brownie mix in the form and you make sure it’s distributed evenly before placing it in the oven. The timer is set and now you only have to wait.

Tick. Tock. Tick. Tock.

You wipe the countertop as he washes the bowl. You stand on each side of the kitchen, glancing at one another. It feels like torture, this carnal dance is making you both pant, but neither wants to give in. You are determined, mostly out of stubbornness. If someone is to break, it has to be him. It is painfully obvious to the both of you that the burning desire is on full heat.

His cock is fully hardened in his boxers and it is desperately trying to break from its confines. Your inner thighs are covered in your own juices as it continues to drip down from your panties. It doesn’t help that you keep rubbing them together to get some relief.

He places the bowl on the counter to dry and turns to you, eyes roaming your body. He smirks to himself, finding you incredibly irresistible in your panties and his shirt. His eyes linger on your ass peeking from under the shirt every time you bend over to wipe the surface of the countertop. He licks his lips and imagine fucking you right there, but he didn’t want to be the one to break. He knows you will soon beg him based off of the shimmering juices between your thighs. He has smelled it the whole time you baked; it is an irresistible aroma that made him achingly hard.

You finish cleaning up and sway your hips as you walk towards Pedro to place the cloth by the sink. You make sure to brush up against his side as you fold the cloth and place it next to the bowl. You can smell his lingering cologne and musky scent. You inhale deeply and force yourself to not moan. You love the way he smells, it makes your head swim and all you want is to push yourself up against him.

You turn and lean on the kitchen island, standing opposite of Pedro. You see his eyes are roaming your curves and you know he will break soon. All you had to do, is to reel in the delicious bait.

You turn around and bend over the countertop, making sure your ass is sticking out as much as possible as you rest your head in your hand. You let out a heavy sigh, as if you are bored and lick your lips. You glance over your shoulder and see his eyes are fixated on your ass. You bite your lip and his gaze snaps to yours. The connection sends a tingle through your stomach and your mind is screaming for him to just take you.

He breathes heavily before closing his eyes shut and tilting his head back. He is not going to break. He licks his lips and exhales deeply. Not going to break. He chants it within his head like a mantra, to keep him from just fucking you.

You narrow your eyes at him, knowing fully well he is fighting against his urges. His cock is twitching in his trousers and you let out a shuddering breath. He will break.

You turn around again and unbutton your shirt, leaving it open, but still covering your breasts. You clear your throat innocently to get his attention.

When his eyes open and he looks forward, his gaze drop straight to your body again, trailing along the exposed flesh of your torso and he lets out a groan. “That’s not fair.” He mumbles as he continues to trail along your skin down to your panties.

You tilt your head to the side. “What do you mean? I am just…” You slide your finger along the opening of the shirt, biting your lip with a sly smirk. “Really warm.”

He pushes himself away from the countertop and saunters over to you. “Warm, huh?” He whispers as he places his thumb and index on the hem of your shirt by the collar. As he slowly drags down along the opening, his eyes are locked with yours. “Why don’t you take off my shirt that you’re wearing then?”

You hold his gaze as you feel his fingertips barely graze your skin. “I don’t want to take it off.” You reply breathy.

“No? You want to keep it warm?”

You nod as he lets go of your shirt and lowers his hand to your aching mound. He hovers a mere inch away from your panties. You feel the heat radiating from his hand and he can feel yours.

“Maybe even make it warmer?”

Your lips part as a shuddering breath leaves your lips. “Yes.” You whisper, wanting him to touch you. Your whole body is aching.

He bends forward and tilts his head towards your neck. You instinctively angle your head back, expecting him to kiss your neck, but nothing. He hovers just away from it and you can feel his breath on your skin. He inhales your sweet scent before placing his lips by your ear. Your heart is thumping against your chest as his lips brush against your skin.

“Then you have to break, my love.” His seductive whispers have your knees almost bucking right under you.

You have lost.

Your hips move forward, into his waiting hand and not a split second goes by before his palm is rubbing on your clit outside your panties. You moan out as your whole body is set ablaze and your head snaps back. Your fingers dig into the edge of the countertop as his fingers press between your clothed petals.

He presses his forehead against your temple as he breathes out. “You’re so fucking wet. I love it.” Your jaw trembles and a shuddering breath escapes you. “You’ve been craving this as much as I have.” He pulls your panties aside and slides two fingers into your aching cavern. You whimper as he massages you slowly inside. “Or perhaps even more.” He murmurs as he nibbles on your ear.

You rub your hand on the outside of his boxers, following the outline of his throbbing cock. He groans as you gently squeeze it and lick your lips. You turn your head and you press your forehead to his as your breath mingles. You can feel the faint ridges going across his member.

He is right, you have been craving this the whole time. You thought you could be the stronger one, but he knew exactly what strings to play in order for you to sing for him. If you are to be honest with yourself, you love it when he toys with you like that. It is a dance you had started, but he is definitely the one to lead it.

You lightly kiss him as you gasp for air, his fingers pumping in and out of your soaking cavern. He kisses you back a little harder, testing the urge within you and nibbles on your lower lip. It is all you need to truly make you break.

You throw your arms around his neck and crash your lips onto his. His fingers slip out of you and you let out a small whimper before he presses his body against yours. His hands entangle in your hair as your tongues fight for dominance. You both gasp for air between each kiss and you rub your hips against his groin.

A low growl vibrates in his throat. He grabs a fistful of your hair and pulls back, forcing your head to tilt. He kisses and nibbles on your jaw, down your throat and to your chest. You let out a hoarse moan as he pulls your shirt to the side with his free hand and captures your nipple in his mouth. He flicks it with his tongue before gently biting on it. You inhale sharply as he sucks on it and your hands travel up his shoulders until it reaches his unruly hair.

You pull him up by his locks and he lets out a low moan. You tug him to you as you fervently kiss him. “Fuck me.” You beg between kisses. You don’t have to say it twice.

He pulls his cock out and an aching groan leaves him. He pulls your leg up to his hip and position his tip by your soaking entrance. You press your foreheads together and you close your eyes, anticipating his entry.

He places his free hand on your cheek and you breathe faster at his touch. “Look at me.” He murmurs onto your lips.

You open your eyes and lock eyes with him. There is an ache in his eyes, almost a painful ache and you can see he wants to say something. It feels like time stands still as your gaze is connected.

He slowly pushes into you, letting your walls mould to his girth. The whole time, your eyes are connected and electric tingles sparks through your body. Your moans meld together as he stills inside of you, his tip kissing your cervix. You move your hands to the back of his neck and lick your lips.

His thumb brushes over your cheek as he scans your face. He moves his hips back and your walls try desperately to suck him back in. He slams into you with a growl and your breath is pushed out of your lungs. He slams into you a second time and a cry of pleasure seeps through your lips.

He moves his hips back and forth, his cock massaging your walls as it goes in and out of your cavern. He loves the sounds that comes out of your mouth as he fucks you. Those sweet moans and yelps of pleasure as a fire spreads throughout your body. A shimmer of sweat builds on both of your bodies, reflecting the moonlight peaking in through the windows and the warm light radiating from the oven below.

He slides his hand from your cheek and down to your throat. The palm of his hand lingers on your neck as he imagines squeezing it, but he moves it further down and palm your breast. He kneads it, making you writhe at his touch. A cry leaps out of you as he pinches your nipple between his thumb and index finger.

“I’m gonna come, love.” You gasp as your legs begin to tremble. A smirk grows on his lips as he darts out his tongue to dampen his lips. You press his head close to you and you claim his lips.

He pulls your leg higher up on his hip and his other hand grasp onto the back of your neck. He deepens the kiss as a growl vibrates in his chest. The fervent kisses leave your lips sore, but neither of you wants to lower the passion surging between you. He is so close, but he is determined to let you come first.

He knows exactly how to send you over the edge. He moves his hand from your neck and down your body. He ends the kiss and press his forehead to yours. Your eyes are closed, but you know where his hand is heading. Your whole body is burning and trembling.

His hand slides in between you and rubs circles around your clit. Your pelvic floor tightens and your legs begins to quiver. Your hands at the back of his neck trembles and you gasp for air. He flicks his thumb across your nub, pushing you over the edge you have been dancing along. You snap your head back as you cry out in pleasure and your whole body shakes. It is set ablaze and your toes curl. Your juices run down his still moving cock and down your leg.

His fingers dig into the flesh of your thigh as he continues to fuck you. Your walls tighten around him and he growls through each push until his cum paints your walls. It mixes with your own juices as it flows down your inner thigh and dripping down on the floor. He thrusts two-three more times, making sure to empty himself completely within you.

He stills and pants, leaning his head on your shoulder. His legs are trembling as well and he swallows thickly. He carefully pulls out of you with a groan, spilling the remaining of your juices onto the floor and tucks himself back into his boxers. He places your leg down and straighten his back, looking down on you through heavy eyelids.

You look up at him as you struggle to stand properly. You lean all your weight onto the countertop as you feel the warmth of his cum run down your skin. You are both soaked in sweat as you try to catch your breath.

The alarm on the oven beeps, alerting you the brownies are done. You both chuckle and you tilt your head back to breathe in. He bends forward and kiss your throat. “I imagined squeezing it earlier.” He whispers against your skin. His hands grab your shirt and readjusts it so it covers your breasts. He takes a step back and admire you before walking over to the oven.

You look over at him as he takes the brownies out. “I think I’d like that.” You confess. “Next time… do it.”

He looks at you with a raised eyebrow before smirking. He saunters over to you and catches your chin between his thumb and index finger. “How about round two?” He licks his lips and his thumb tugs at your lower lip.

“Yes please.”

A smirk paints his lips before he dips his head down and claim your lips once more.

(Wanna be added to my tag list for Pedro Pascal and his characters? Let me know and I will happily add you)

TAG: @cynic-spirit, @lililolli

[painless-innit-colourful]

Invisible

Potions of invisibility grant the user the ability to disappear, functionally: the concealment of one’s self through magic, distilled into a draught easy to swallow. For better and worse, Tommy’s familiar with the taste.

It tastes sour, primarily. 

Looking at the ingredient list, no wonder. Nether wart and fermented spider eye. Gross. There are some things a golden carrot just can't balance out. 

It's such a disgusting taste he doesn't notice the shimmering feeling, instead focusing his attention on scraping a thin layer of translucent brown sugar-mushroom-spider ick off his tongue. Not until: 

"Tommy?" "Y- Bleh- Yeah?" "Oh!" Tubbo waves his arms in a wild arc, smile growing, before his hand collides with Tommy's arm, and he picks up Tommy's wrist. "It worked!" "What do you- Ohhh..." 

If he blurs his vision, Tubbo's fingers circle around nothing. If he looks properly, he can just about see the edges of his wrist, the lines of his shirt sleeve. "Dude, how does that work?" "Which bit?" "Clothes. My clothes didn't drink it too." "Dude, I dunno... My turn!" 

They learn to spot the tiny signs of an invisible person. They learn to disguise them. Tommy tries to tackle Tubbo and misses completely, and both of them fall about laughing. 

Call that a drug van success story. 

--- 

He sprints past it, hoping they aren’t following, panic filling his bloodstream. He chugs the potion as he runs, drops spilling down his front, staining his navy coat with off-white shadows as he shimmers and disappears into thin air. 

Please don’t see me, please don’t see me.

He stumbles into the shallow waters of the lake, wading - disturbing the water, too many signs, you're gonna be seen - towards Tubbo's tunnel. He takes three steps and slips under the surface, landing on his hands and knees on the tunnel floor, waiting, waiting- Where are they? 

There's the sound of an arrow seeking its mark and hitting true, and for a split second Tommy sees an arm with deft fingers and a dark blue sleeve fall over the side of the entrance, and then the body is gone and shit shit shit- 

Tommy sticks his head back out- Who was that? Wilbur? Tubbo? He feels the shimmering feeling again - "a quick escape", where are the others - and slowly drops back to the tunnel floor. 

Make a decision, what if they find you, Little Laddy One Life? He walks away, opting to live to fight another day, hoping that his friends will join him soon. 

--- 

Funnily though, while clothes disappear with the potion, armour doesn't. He doesn't know why; he's not smart enough to. And right now, as he yanks the shoulder straps of his chestplate tight, he doesn't really care. 

"Stop!" They don't stop, voices mostly drowned out by the overwhelming sound of rushing water. Dream, his face also hidden, but by his signature mask as opposed to the magic of an invisibility potion, holds his hand towards Tubbo and tells him "I need the disc." Tommy crests the wreckage of the Community House, no longer attempting to stay hidden as the water thunders down around his ankles, pulling him towards the platform in the centre. It's a bizarre version of the Pit. It’s an arena. It's a stage. 

"No!" He screams, as Tubbo takes half a step back towards the ender chest. Heads snap to his position, looking at the empty suit of armour that's just appeared beside and above them. Tubbo stutters something in quiet disbelief, and between that and the sudden attention, Tommy falters. If he took off his armour now, could he get out of there? Or would the same fate that once befell Wilbur catch him? The blame for this building is on him, after all. 

He jumps in, landing on his feet between Dream and the cabinet of L'Manberg. He is caught in the crossfire of their questions: "Tommy?" "Is that Tommy?" 

He shouts, and he screams, and he revolves like a merry-go-round, trying to keep his eyes on everyone, not trusting that his armour'll be enough to protect him from the sheer amount of enemies about. So many people hate him, he realises, it's 30 v 2. Technoblade would like those odds. Technoblade, who's standing beside him, not invisible because he went to get milk. He likes the protection; he thinks. 

They don't listen. Tubbo keeps insisting he betrayed them all by teaming with Techno, that he betrayed L'Manberg, but they don't understand, he didn't have a choice, "You don't know what he did to me in exile." Tubbo has the disc in his hands, and without having an inkling of where Dream's eyes are, he watches him consider simply snatching it from Tubbo's hands. 

"You're not gonna give him the disc." Tubbo looks at him like it's a dare, and why can't he see? Tommy's practically crying with the effort and exertion of watching his best friend betray him in slow motion, of being this close to his abuser, of being blamed for something he didn't do, of being beaten down every time he gets on his damn feet. 

"I don’t need to prove myself to you. This wasn’t me. Trust me. Jesus— for once in your life, Tubbo, trust me." Tubbo's eyes are cold, his mind made up. What happened to us against the world?  "I did trust you. Once. The first time all of this happened. And I won’t make the same mistake twice." 

There's a little moment where time stops, and everyone draws nearer like a crowd at the coliseum, and Tommy feels his invisibility ripple slightly, warning him it's about to wear off. Who the fuck cares. 

Tubbo takes a step towards Dream, and Tommy lunges to put himself between them. "Don't you dare." Tubbo's hand goes to his axe. "You betrayed me, Tubbo, you- Did you just-" Both of their eyes are on Tubbo’s weapon, when he puts the disc away, staring Tommy down plainly with his one hand returning to the axe at his waist, and the other taking out his shield. "I didn't betray you." His voice is level, all business. Okay then, Mr President.

"You betrayed everything that you'd built with presidents prior." Tommy's anger, and hurt, and frustration, and pain finally boils over, so much so that it's visible in the way he shakes as he brings out his axe. "You know what?" He bites into a golden apple, feeling its effects drown out the rushing water and the shimmering sensation of his invis. "You've got your axe up." Technoblade’s tone is surprised but light as he tells Tommy to make this decision wisely, but he’s already gone, his safety and conscience be damned. He throws himself at Tubbo, brandishing his axe as the pigman taught him, like he once practised with the brown-haired boy he’s swinging at, thinking You say I betrayed you? I'll show you a traitor. 

Poetically, perhaps, it's less like a fight, and more like a dance. They are a whirlwind - a hurricane - clashing and blocking and pushing and shoving across the otherwise empty floor. Somewhere in the gushing water, Technoblade's bloodlust has seized him, and he's gone for the L'Manbergians and the festival-goers and the unrelated parties that came when they saw the destruction, and he's scattering them this way and that, but who cares about that? 

They are not equally matched. Tommy shakes too much: there is too much of him vulnerable here, not just his mortality, something that neither invisibility nor armour can keep from being scratched and damaged. He's losing. He's quite badly losing, despite Tubbo's inferior armour and weapons and allies, and he leaps into the nearest watery wall, letting the Respiration helmet Techno made for him protect him as the water drags him under and away from his attacker. His best friend. He bites into another golden apple, his pleas swallowed by the torrent. He still hears Tubbo's shout though, permeating the water and being relayed through his communicator from wherever Techno is. 

"Where are you?" 

He pops back up, shaking and soaking wet and sees a familiar sight: an old friend, a brother - once - staring him down with death in his eyes from behind brown hair. He was wrong, oh so wrong, all those weeks ago: at once he is Schlatt, alone at the end of his days, and there's Wilbur, old pals who'll be the death of each other. No. 

No. 

"I didn’t betray you, you teamed up with the very person that destroyed us the first time!" He feels his invis shimmer one more time, and the timing is immaculate, really. Cinematic, one might say. 

"I went for the discs— Tubbo, the discs— The discs were worth more than you ever were!" "No... Wh- Th-" The world stands still, and it feels so good, it's so good to finally say it, to watch Tubbo's face fall, his shield slipping from his hand, listen to the reactions around their little arena, watch as Tubbo shuts his mouth and yanks on the strap of his chestplate and lets it drop to the floor, leaving him defenceless and open to attack and wait- no- wait- 

Mutely, Tommy’s gaze drifts skyward, and it should feel good because they know now, they know how he feels, but it's not, it's not good because that- that wasn't true. That wasn't right. 

And he looks back at Tubbo, and finally, finally, his invis runs out, and he hopes it shows on his face, that he knows he's fucked up because Tubbo looks destroyed, and a shiver goes through him because he no longer looks angry he just- He just looks sad. 

He takes off his helmet, breathing heavily from the ache and exertion, heart burning in regret. 

‘The discs were worth more than you ever were.’

How do you fix that? For one crazy moment, he considers the invis again. Turning translucent and running, back to Techno- back to Technoblade who'd congratulate him on 'moving on' and tell Phil like he was proud and probably write that line on the fucking wall, how could he be such a monumental ass- 

"Tubbo?" Their eyes meet. Tubbo says nothing. 

"Give him the disc." 

He looks bewildered, "You want me to give Dream the disc?" He says, the tiniest sliver of something they used to have peeking through, the bearest hint of kindness, and bless him, it's more than Tommy deserves. It makes him want to go invisible again. 

He smiles softly, and it can't reach his eyes, but he pours every ounce of good left in him into it and desperately hopes it's enough.

"Yeah." And because he's fucked up, because he knows they can never go back from this: "I'm sorry Tubbo." 

--- 

He's done it again, he keeps fucking up. Sam's hand is holding him down by the shoulder, firm fingers digging into him, keeping him from reaching Ghostbur. 

He tried so hard. His throat is sore from not coughing. His muscles hurt from the pure tension and adrenaline coursing through his bloodstream, from his stubborn heart to the ends of his fingers and toes. He thought he'd gotten caught when he drank the potion in the waivers room, and his heart had been beating so loud that he'd thought Sam could hear it. 

Yet, they made it. But it doesn't matter, because he pulled out the axe too early, and now he's busted, and Sam's gonna kill him or Wilbur's going to come back or both, and it's all his fault. 

Every time he tries. Every time he tries to fix things, or do what's right, or have something for himself, it's taken away, destroyed and he's kicked to the ground. Every time. 

It's enough to make anyone want to be invisible.

[xginata]

Goodnight Moon

Prompt: After accepting to babysit your best friends kids, Keigo comes to terms with his feelings about someday becoming a dad.

Rating: Pure & wholesome fluff.

Wordcount: short drabble, 1.5k words.

Notes: Wrote this at 1am because I couldn’t stop picturing Keigo overcoming his fears. Keigo would be such a great dad, even if he struggled he would do anything for y/n and his kids. Also tried to keep this as non-binary, as possible because I do want many people to feel included in my writings. I used the term “titi,” when it came to y/n because at least how I used it growing up, it was meant for both uncle & aunt. I hope everyone gets to enjoy this little piece!

(*´꒳`*)

Hawks was uncomfortable, as two little kids ran around him, poking and prodding at his wings, one even grabbing a fist full and pulling them out, making Hawks grow irritated.

Hawks had been expecting for you to be slumped up on the couch, drifting into a nap. He planned to surprise you this afternoon since he was able to come home earlier than expected.

He did not expect to see you and two little toddlers whose sentences always seem to start with, “why, what, where, when, and how?”

He most certainly did not expect to get jumped and tackled by the two little monsters either.

You were in the kitchen, making snacks for the two little toddlers as you heard him call out your name. Not completely yelling for you but also his calmness wavered.

You came out from the kitchen holding matching pb&j’s and two sticks of gogurts.

“What is is baby?” You asked and your eyes widened, letting out a small laugh.

The twins somehow managed to tackle him to the floor, Hawks sprawled out, unable to get up thanks to the twins quirk. They could increase the weight, almost harden, any part of a persons body and unfortunately for Keigo, it was the wings.

“Uncle Keigo!” They shouted in sync, laughing and giggling at his uncomfortableness. They had seen him on TV but never in real life and when they found out that their parent’s best friend, was in a relationship with Keigo, they begged to see him.

Your best friend asked you to watch them so they and their partner could go out for a date, you didn’t hesitate to say yes and you both knew the chances of Keigo actually being there. You wouldn’t force him and neither would your friend but it was probably a rare moment for your best friend that the twins wanted to be away from their parents, at least for now.

“A little help please?” He huffed as the twins ran circles around him.

“Come on,” you called for the twins, “I have snacks!” You set their food on the small table and turned on paw patrol, their gazes instantly fixed on the screen and their yelling subsided.

Hawks was still laying on the floor.

“Undo your quirk please.” You said to the twins who in turn touched their pointer fingers together, undoing their quirk.

Hawks let out a puff of air, finally felt like he was able to breathe. He cursed underneath his breath, “little monsters.” He said, you giggled and kissed him softly on the cheek.

“No, where’s my real kiss?” He pulled you back and you pecked him on the lips. He groaned, “Kids always get in the way.”

Hawks wouldn’t be much help that night but it wasn’t something you were mad about, you were happy that he was spending time with you, even as the twins asked him a million and one questions.

You knew about his past and you assumed why he felt the way he did about children, having a hard time as one himself and his upbringing, it was a sensitive topic. The baby talk wasn’t something either of you spoke about, you were happy with him and if it happened then great, and if it didn’t you were still happy.

He returned from showering, entering with a smaller set of wings, probably because he didn’t want the twins to keep messing with him, either way it didn’t stop them from asking him how his wings worked, and, “if you only grow your wing on one side, it would be like a mohawk on your back. A backhawk!” Hawks snorted at the failed joke attempt from one of the twins.

“Sure, kid.” He said laughing it off.

The twins turned back to you, rubbing their eyes.

“Titi, can you read us a bedtime story, please?” They synced up their please at the end, warming your heart, and the nickname they gave you making you smile.

“Of course!” Your soft smile diverted Hawks gaze from the TV to you. He hadn’t seen you smile like that in a long time, your eyes beamed with happiness and his own heart swelled.

He saw as you handed them their sippy cups with warm milk and led them to the guest room. He stayed on the couch for a minute, blankly staring at the TV and telling himself he didn’t want to see you with the twins. He huffed, giving up and got up from his spot. The guest door was slightly ajar, a nightlight was plugged in next to the bed, displaying beautiful shadows of stars and planets dancing together.

The twins were underneath their blanket, the one your best friend had packed along with the nightlight, “nightlight plus blankie, plus milk equals night night.” You remember your best friend saying as she left.

Keigo rested his shoulder on the doorway, as he watched you flipped through the pages of “Goodnight Moon.” He listened along with them, your tone was delicate with every word. Your eyes were soft as you’d look up from each page, checking as the twins started to drift off into sleep. He knew how you felt about kids, having it mentioned it once he knew that you would be happy either way.

For a moment he imagined it be him sitting in that chair, reading them the bedtime story as you laid down on the bed with them. Images of little toddlers with his wings and your hair, and your smile and your laugh, with your beautiful eyes filled his thoughts.

He imagined you and your full belly carrying his baby or if you didn’t want that or you couldn’t have that, then checking up on a surrogate with you, or adoption. Regardless, whatever you chose, in that moment he knew that what he wanted was to have children with you.

Your children didn’t have to grow up like him, they didn’t have to feel the pain of growing up alone and confused, because even if they might not have him all the time, they still had you. He knew, as you closed the book, and tucked them in, that you would be the best parent to his children. He wanted to be a dad, deep down he knew it was something he wanted to do, especially if it was with you.

He hadn’t realized he was crying until you walked up to him, worried.

“Are you okay, love?” You asked as you wiped his tears.

“I love you,” he whispered your name as he wrapped his arms around you. You let your confusion subside and hugged him back harder.

Keigo let go of you, looking at the twins who were still sound asleep and closed the door slightly. He pulled you back into the living room, and sat you down on the couch, he laid on the L-couch with his legs extended and opened providing you space to sit between them.

His arms wrapped over your shoulder, hugging you to his chest.

“I want..” his voice softened, remembering the twins, “I want to have babies with you.” He said, and your heart jumped.

“I know what you said that either way you were happy and it’s your body and I’ll be happy with whatever you decide but I want you to know that I was selfish back then, in closing off the possibility to see you as a parent because I know you would be an amazing fucking parent.” He rambled, “I want to see a mini version of you running around, or adopting a kid. I want to be there for you and them and provide a better childhood for them. I want to be a dad.” He confessed.

You turned your neck slightly, looking up at him with teary eyes, it must’ve taken a lot for him to say that to you. “I want that too.” You said.

Tears rolled down his cheeks as you turned around and kissed him, “I love you and I know you’d be an amazing fucking dad.” You repeated his words with the same emotion he had. You felt it, you knew he would be an amazing dad.

“Uncle Kiego?” The twins cried from the room. Keigo jumped from the couch, as did you but he got to the room faster.

“Whats wrong, kid?” He asked as he entered, the twins were crying.

“Nightmare?” He asked them and they nodded tearfully. You choked up, seeing him interact with them so differently since this afternoon. You didn’t know what made him change his mind but you were happy that he would give himself a chance to be a parent.

“Don’t worry about it. You’re safe, Hawks will look over you both so you don’t have anymore nightmares.”

“Can you read us the story again?” One of the twins asked, to which he nodded. He tucked them both back in bed and opened the book, reading them to sleep once more with Goodnight Moon.

[kodzukyan]

the long way home (to you)

notes: happy belated birthday, rissa! cheers to our tokrev momster, the baby of group therapy, and the light of my life!! words can’t describe how much joy you bring to my life, and i’m thankful every day for you. thank you for putting up with all the dumb shit i say on the daily HAHA. i love you so much. 🥺💖 @seishue (also thank you to annette and ilayda for putting up with me as i overthink every thing HAHA 🥺) 

summary: the concept of home redefined through the years. - kokonui

wc: 1.6k

Home is an abstract concept, but it’s something Koko has always been able to define.

At eight, it was sitting in Seishu’s room and the sound of pencils scribbling on summer homework as the air conditioner hummed through the silence. At eight, it was the sound of his laughter as Seishu pouts about summer homework. At eight, it was Akane with her golden hair and sky-blue eyes as she brings in barley tea and snack cakes. At eight, it was the warmth that blooms in his chest as his heart thunders excitedly and recklessly at the sight of Akane’s pretty smiles and playful teasing.

At eight, it was the sound of fire crackling and tearing through the home he knew.

(All he sees is the painted reds and oranges of fire, burning, burning, burning through home as he knows it.

He runs into the fire anyway because he promised. He will save her, save love as he knows it. As if he’s running on autopilot, he just bulldozes through the building of burning wood and flaming memories because he purely has one end goal. He runs, runs, runs, and finally sees her, sees the promise he vowed to protect.

He doesn’t think because all he cares about is Akane, his promise, and he grabs her and runs. He sighs in relief as they make it. As he breathes in the fresh air, he sees light blue eyes staring right back at him, too light to be paired with the soft smile that flutters his heart, and he feels like he can’t breathe. He stares vacantly at Seishu, and as pain reflects back from his blue eyes, Koko hates himself for feeling upset that he saved his best friend instead of his sister.

His eyes drift from downcast eyes to the blazing building, and his heart stops. He’s breathing, but his body is frozen and his mind is dazed. The forbidding feeling in his chest swells into a looming shadow, and he feels crushed as it devours him whole.)

At eight, home burns. All he’s left with is Seishu’s hand clutching his as they stand in a white room. The love of his life laid still, and the steady beep of the heart monitor drowns out their cries.

-----

At fifteen, home was found through crimes and bonds built through money and blood. At fifteen, it was wistful thinking and forcing the image of Akane onto his best friend, hoping, praying that she will still smile at him all the same. But she doesn’t because all he recognizes is Seishu and his steady eyes as he looks forward. In contrast, Koko feels increasingly aware that he was the only one running in circles with no destination.

Seishu has constantly seen him, always looked at him as him. And despite conventional belief, while he still detects traces of Akane, he sees Seishu too. He cherishes him too, in a different way than how he loved Akane, in a way that reminds him that love is steady.

He loves Seishu in a way that he will always, always choose him. Like the consistent beat of his heart, love flows softly, tenderly, subtly. Unlike the blazing flutters of his heart he felt with Akane, it's more like the stars that twinkle night after night. With Seishu, he doesn’t have to be the Koko who exclusively knows how to break things and make money. With Seishu, he can completely just be Koko. A gentle lull, rest stop, a stronghold against the world where he doesn’t have to run, where he can finally sleep.

Seishu deserves better, though. He deserves someone who isn’t chasing after the image of a dead girl while being half in love with him. He deserves someone who isn’t running in circles, both mentally and emotionally. He deserves someone who loves him fully instead of his half-baked feelings that grow and surface with every moment, but he refuses to acknowledge.

(Because if he does, what will he have left? Who is he without money and his feelings for the one who commenced it all?

He’s a little more lost than found, so he just keeps on running, running, running in hopes to discover some answers, to finally reach somewhere he can just be.

(He doesn't know how to stop.)

Somehow, he thinks Seishu knows all along anyway with the way he still squeezes his hand and looks at him like he’s still worth it. He still enables him to lean in and tuck himself in between the crook of his neck and breathe in the scent of home.)

But home, Koko thinks, becomes a little more undefined when they part ways. Because he can no longer protect Seishu, who keeps on going and facing forwards while he’s still stuck on a repeated loop. Because he knows he’s gripping Seishu back from growing and becoming someone who can take on the world.

(Because he loves him.)

So, he lets go of home and wonders since when did it become so cold without Seishu’s hand holding his.

-----

At eighteen, he is completely lost. The sight of Akane’s smiling is long gone and the warmth of Seishu’s hand in his has gone cold. The looming shadow that has been following him is always ready to overtake him, but he fights on anyway because he has to see it through.

(See what through? He doesn’t know exactly.)

Ironically, it has incessantly been the bleakest moments when Seishu appears beside him. He’s still running loops on repeat, but he thinks an alternative path opens up when Seishu extends his hand out. He wants to take it, wants to altogether stop running because he’s so tired.

“Koko.” Seishu prompts as he holds his hand out, “I’ll give you half of my burdens, so give me half of yours too.”

He grasps Seishu’s hand, and Seishu pulls him up. Koko leans into the crook of Seishu’s neck like he did before, and as if all the years of exhaustion finally caught up to him, he cries. He cries for the loss of Akane, cries for the loss of what could have been, cries for the loss of home.

Seishu just stands still and supports him tightly in his arms as he breaks.

“I’m with you.”

He used to think he was the one who supported Seishu, but he thinks he’s been proven time and time again that it’s the opposite way around.

“We don’t talk about this,” Koko sniffles as he leans into Seishu’s hold.

“Okay,” Seishu promises and places a tender kiss on his temple.

Koko has never believed in God. God wasn’t there when he needed him; God still isn’t here when he needs him. But as their bodies press together, limbs tangled and eyes locked, he wonders if this is what heaven feels like.

("Koko," Seishu starts. A conversation that has been lingering in the back of his mind; a conversation that has to be said. He pauses, wandering eyes hesitant to confront black ones before he inhales sharply. "I’m not Akane."

Koko's teasing smile fades, intense eyes meeting crystalline blue ones that are slightly lighter than the girl he loved once. He used to imagine the boy in front of him as his sister, the one he swore he would protect, but he can’t even fathom the thought now. He can see her traces, but he thinks he never desires it to be her anymore. He just wants his best friend, his comfort, his home, him. "I know."

His callous hands reach for Seishu’s burn scar, caressing it gently before he trails down and brushes Seishu’s soft cheek. He cradles it for a moment before he presses his forehead against Seishu’s, softly, fondly. He’s earnest as his eyes staring straight into blue ones, a vulnerability in his gaze. A realization, a truth, something he’s long figured out but didn’t want to admit because he didn’t want to let go of all that he knew.

But he notes the man in front of him now, feels the warmth of his cheek and the softness in his glance, and Koko finally smiles and feels like it’s okay to stop.

“I only see you, Seishu. You, and only you.”)

At eighteen, he comes home after wandering the world, thinking maybe he can ultimately stop his journey to obtain something because he had someone all along.

-----

At twenty-one, home looks a lot like the one from his childhood. A modest one-bedroom apartment with an equally small living room and kitchen, but there’s still the sound of pencils scribbling as Seishu writes down the grocery list and the air conditioner still hums through the summer daze.

Life feels so calm that everything before this moment feels like a fever dream. He wakes up next to Seishu, drinks coffee — black for him, two sugars and heavy on the milk for Seishu — together before they part ways for work or whatever they have for the day. They take turns picking dinner or leave it to the roulette when they can’t decide, and sometimes they go out with their friends for drinks at night.

Within these four walls of the apartment, there are memories immortalized as pictures, and furniture far too expensive for a little place like this. Heels line up in the doorway, name-brand jackets fill the closet, a set of matching silverware picked out together.

A home meant for two, and love blankets every crevice in this small home and his heart.

Home, Koko thinks, perchance is a person all along as he stares at Seishu, who only smiles and holds out his hand as he catches his eyes. Koko reflectively smiles back and laces their fingers together.

“You ready?” Seishu asks, a grocery list in hand and his heart in the other.

“With you? Always,” he responds back with a grin, knowing he equally holds Seishu’s heart too.

Home, Koko thinks, is definitely Seishu all along. 

[critrolesideblog]

Some snippets from the Nein’s week at the Blooming Grove.

-----

There is a shadow of something between them. Something in the way their shoulders brush as they stand next to each other, in the way the Scourger's broad shoulders relax ever-so-slightly when Caleb is near, in the intensity with which he watches Caleb's face as he speaks, in the way Caleb's eyes travel slow, lingering paths up the Scourger's muscular arms when he thinks no one is watching.

Caleb has his back to Essek, standing over a desk, perusing a book the Scourger has lent him. The Scourger is next to him, arms crossed over his chest, leaning back against the desk with an air of ease and familiarity, as if he did not try to kill them all mere days ago. He is facing Essek, but not looking at him.

Until he is.

Brown eyes catch lilac ones in their stare, and a wolfish grin curls its way around the handsome features. He says something to Caleb in Zemnian, without breaking Essek's eye contact. It sounds like a question, to which Caleb replies casually.

It is foolish, Essek knows, to maintain eye contact like this. Any number of spells may be wrought thus, but he cannot find it in himself to look away.

The Scourger asks another question, his voice dropping an octave. He forfeits the staring contest to trace Caleb's form with his eyes, down then up, and there is still a wolfish edge to his playful grin as leans in past the boundary of Caleb's shoulder.

Without looking up from his book, Caleb places a hand on the near side of the Scourger's face and slowly but firmly extends his arm out. The Scourger, chuckling, allows himself to be pushed over far enough that he has to take a step away from Caleb to maintain his balance.

His eyes alight on Essek again. He says something to Caleb with a sigh, and then lopes out of the library, his eyes on Essek's all the while. Just before he floats down out of sight, he gives Essek a wink.

Once all is still, Caleb looks up, finally, toward the exit. His shoulder dips slightly as he turns to look at Essek, but Essek's eyes are already back on his own book.

------

"Anyway, it's a really good book, Essek. I think you'll like it."

"I am sure it is, but romance novels have never been my, ah, cup of tea."

Jester draws the small brush dipped in black laquer carefully across the final nail of Essek's right hand. "It's not just a romance novel, Essek. It's literature. You're missing out." She says the last part in a singsong voice as she leans back to survey her handiwork. "Are you sure you don't want me to put some little designs on them. I could make them very tasteful, you know, like some little stars or your favorite rune or something."

They are seated in front of the fireplace in Jester's room atop a make-shift bed of soft pillows and blankets. Fey cats sit among the pillows alongside them, some with tails holding aloft trays of milk, cookies, pastries, tea, and fruit, others merely there for their evening nap.

"I will likely be returning to Vurmas outpost soon, Jester. I do not want anything that will draw too much attention from the soldiers."

"Oh, alright," she says. Her tail sways slowly behind her like a disappointed shake of the head. "You do pull off the monochromatic look really well. Next time, through, we should try something different, just for fun, you know?" She gives him a bright, fanged grin.

"Yes, next time."

Essek thought, after a century of den politics, he could hide his heart from anyone (evidence shows even himself), but hiding it from Jester Lavorre is another matter entirely. She narrows her eyes at him suspiciously.

"There is going to be a next time, Essek. You're so smart -- I'm sure you can figure out a solution for anything. So there is going to be a next time, alright, Essek? Promise me."

"Jester--"

"Promise!" She holds her pinkie finger out toward him imperiously. The logical part of Essek's mind whirs with explanations, caveats, problems, but Jester is looking at him with such determination, such faith.

Slowly, carefully, he loops his pinkie around hers.

"I promise."

-----

Essek observes, a little wryly, that it promises to be another beautiful sunlit day, when a small but bright flash of light catches his eye painfully as he walks through the Grove after breakfast. He winces reflexively, and when he looks back, the glimmer is gone. Curious. He pauses, waiting, eyes carefully scanning the mist-clung leaves and gilded treetops. There is a distant rustling, a whisper of breeze, and -- there it is again! A flash and gone, but he sees the direction of its source this time.

Diverting from his usual path, he strikes off in search of it. He drifts into one of the wilder reaches of the grove, skirting mounds and headstones, overgrown with flowers of every color, shimmering with dew. Finally, the tall brush ahead of him clears and he finds...Fjord?

Fjord is lying on the damp undergrowth, the dawning sunlight glinting off the metal buckles of his armor. His limbs are thrown aside at funny angles as though he had fallen, but Essek's keen ears tell him his breathing is normal. From what Essek can tell, he is awake and uninjured.

"Fjord?"

"Mm?" One yellow eye opens to survey him coyly.

"What are you doing?"

"I have been ... grievously injured," Fjord rasps with great melodrama, his left hand moving slightly to bring Essek's attention to a wooden dowell a few inches from his knee.

The puzzle pieces fall into place.

"Ah." Essek murmurs, "This is a trap." A toothy grin spreads across the half-orc's handsome features, but Essek is already scanning his surroundings, ears straining, for any sign to give away his hunter. He does not want to make it too easy for him.

There is a rustle of leaves to his left.

He turns toward it, casting Shield with a little more flourish than is strictly necessary, and -- twang--FWUMP! He hisses as a dowell hits him hard in the back of his right shoulder. An orange cat with familiar blue eyes pops its head out of the flowers in front of him. Catleb tilts his head playfully as victorious giggles erupt from the tree branches behind Essek.

Essek looks down at his shoulder as though surveying the damage. "I am not sure a shoulder wound is instantly mortal."

"The arrows are poisoned," Fjord supplies casually.

"Ah, of course."

"And if you don't die with enough gravitas, you'll be made to do it again."

Essek suppresses a sigh and a smirk. He supposes he cannot have enough practice faking his death.

-----

"Alright, man, that's enough for right now," Beau says as she closes her notebook. "I think we both need some food and some fresh air." She rises from her seat, stretches, and claps Caleb on the shoulder as she walks by. "Let's go, dude. Don't make me come back in here for you, 'cause you know I will." And with that, she walks past the shadow, out of the Clays' kitchen, into the sunshine.

Caleb rubs his hands over his face and takes a deep breath. Eins, zwei, drei...

Constance Clay is seated to his left. She is a calm, abiding presence, listening without judgment, a witness, an anchor. Caleb gives her a nod, and she nods back, as has become their habit in ending these sessions. Finally, he rises and walks past the other witness in the room.

"Caleb," the shadow calls softly as he reaches the door.

Caleb turns back.

There is a moment of silence as the apology dies in Wulf's teeth, and Caleb is not sure if expecting no different makes it hurt more or less.

"I know," he replies. Wulf does not flinch. He never has. He never will. "I know."

He walks out into the sunshine.

----

Caleb wakes up on a warm, sunlit patch of grass. He stares at the cloudless, blue sky for a moment before his attention is drawn by the skritch-a-scratch-scratch of pencil on paper to his left.

Jester is sitting beneath a peach tree, her sketchbook propped up against her knees. When her candy-pink eyes look up to peer at him over the pages, she grins and beckons him with a single, curling finger.

Slowly, after a nice, big stretch, he ambles up and over to her and crouches down at her side. She holds her book out at arms-length, so they can both survey her work: an orange cat fast asleep on its back in the sunshine. It's curled around on itself like a doughnut, its fluffy tummy exposed, a look pure feline bliss on its face.

"I think I got your good side."

-----

"A lee-tle more to the left," Jester says, motioning for Essek to stand closer-still to Caleb. He cannot get much closer without falling into Caleb's lap (he'll thank her later). He stares at her for a long moment, floats in just a nudge, and then shares A Look with Caleb. She considers this a small match-making success.

Gardening, truth be told, is not Jester's strong suit, so she has been spending her week in the Grove doing something much more important: drawing, drawing, and drawing some more. She draws until her hand cramps, at which point she pauses to eat a pastry or two and goes back to drawing again: Caleb and Essek conversing in the shade of an apple tree; Veth chasing Luc through the flowers; Yasha returning a baby bird to its nest; Fjord and Beau sparring amidst a shower of jacaranda petals; Constance and Cornelius Clay, each with an arm around Caduceus' shoulders, resting their heads against his in turns as they drink tea; Kingsley flirting incorrigibly with Eadwulf; Eadwulf and Astrid tending, with great care and concentration, to a plant that was half struck by the Blight; Sprinkle napping among the flowers; and a hundred other little moments, until her trusty sketchbook is almost entirely out of paper. And she knows exactly how she wants to use the final piece.

Fjord, Veth, and Caleb are seated in the garden on a motley assortment of chairs from the Clays' home, with Caduceus, Beau, Yasha, Molly, and Essek standing behind.

"You know, Blueberry, there is going to be a problem with this portrait." Caleb says, and Jester frowns, considering the composition and the lighting.

"What do you mean?"

"You're not in it.” Ah, yes, that tender grin is the exact one Jester wants to capture.

"Of course she is!" Declares Veth, tilting her head left then right to regard the rest of the Nein. "Look at all these smiles!"

[frenchtipacrylics]

my updated makeup routines✨

i love love love makeup. my favorite thing to do is to switch it up and find new products and techniques that work really well with my features. since the summer has started and i’ve had much more free time, i’ve been playing around with my makeup styles and how i do my makeup for different occasions. as of right now, i have three makeup routines: my everyday “no makeup” makeup, my everyday glam routine, and my full glam routine. keep in mind, i have very oily skin so some of these techniques won’t work well for everyone!

“no makeup” makeup 

my grocery shopping/running errands look. if i had ten minutes to do my makeup, this is the routine i would go for. not long-wearing, but it helps me look more “put together” when i’m being a bum.

base:

my first step is to use a primer. for primer, i use the elf putty primer to fill in my pores so i look smooth, then over top i use a gripping primer to keep my makeup on my face. i like the milk hydrogrip and the elf watermelon primers.

next, i powder my face either with the maybelline loose setting powder or the fenty powder foundation so i have a bit more coverage but also so my oily skin won’t break down my base makeup as quickly.

for “foundation”, i use the glossier skin tint mixed with the covergirl matte bb cream. the glossier skin tint is not good if you have oily skin, but combined with the bb cream it is much more long wearing. i either use my fingers or a beauty blender. 

then i bronze, and i put that on my cheeks, forehead, nose, and blend it into my eye socket and under my eyebrows, flicking up once i get to my temples. this emphasizes my bone structure in a way that’s more natural looking than contour. i really like the covergirl queen bronzer.

moving on to blush, i use the milk cheek stick from sephora or the cream blush stick from colourpop. i put it on my cheeks, nose, and some on my chin and forehead to make everything look put together. 

eyes:

i prime my eyelids with my eyeshadow primer and swipe some of my blush onto my lids so everything looks a bit more “effortless”.

next I do my brows. i use the maybelline brow pencil in a shade that matches my real eyebrow hair color. i continually brush through them with a spoolie so they look natural, and rub my bronzer on the beginning of them so it doesn’t look as harsh.

for my lashes, i heat my eyelash curler, curl my lashes, apply a brown tubing mascara, and curl again. the mascara i use is the maybelline snapscara in the shade brown since it looks more natural than black. i also use a lash serum to promote growth.

lips: 

for my lips, i use a red chapstick to give my lips a “naturally” red look (either the dior lip balm or burts bees), a light pink lipgloss in the middle, and the fenty gloss bomb in hot chocolit as a “liner” that looks more natural and moisturized.

tutorials i follow: 

THE ULTIMATE NO MAKEUP LOOK | fake it til you make it... 👀

“NO MAKEUP” MAKEUP LOOK USING ONLY DRUGSTORE PRODUCTS

Makeup For Finessers!!! "No Makeup Makeup" Tutorial | Jackie Aina

NO FOUNDATION makeup routine

my no makeup tutorial

My "No Makeup" Makeup Look | Glowy Flawless Skin Tips + NO Foundation | Easy Summer Look

Minimal Makeup! Using 10 products | Jackie Aina

everyday glam makeup

very heavily inspired by the victoria’s secret angels. definitely more “high trust” than my full glam routine, kind of a “cute” look instead of a “sexy” one. plays with shimmer, pink tones, highlight, more of an effortless vibe. if you guys remember my fashion post, this ties into the girly & romantic aesthetic.

base:

my priming step is the same here, and i still set my primer with powder before going in with the rest of my makeup.

tinted moisturizer!!! to get my perfect shade and finish, i mix the covergirl matte bb cream for oily skin with the glossier skin tint like above.

for concealer i use the colourpop tinted moisturizer on the areas i want to highlight. for extra brightening, i use the maybelline fit me concealer in a shade thats way lighter than my skin tone and i put a small amount on the bridge of my nose to give it some extra depth.

instead of contour i use bronzer. bronzer is used to bring warmth to the face, so it is important to place bronzer in the places the sun would naturally hit/tan you. bronzer is not the same as contour; bronzer is always warm toned (hence bringing warmth/making you look tanner) and contour is always cool or neutral toned (because it is supposed to mimic shadows). putting bronzer where you put your contour can make your makeup look muddy, and a lot of bronzers contain shimmer which you don’t want in a contour. i put my bronzer on my cheeks and forehead with a big fluffy brush for a sun kissed look, and with a smaller brush i put a little at the top of my nose bridge. it adds depth and makes it look like i contoured my nose without me having to actually do it.

then i set my concealer. i use the maybelline fit me powder in the shade medium, press my beauty blender into the powder, dab the excess off on the back of my hand, and then i press the powder into my skin.

for this look, i prefer to look more youthful than snatched. so for blush, i like to put it on the apples of my cheeks and the tip of my nose. i use shimmery powder blush, and my favorites are the baked milani blushes or the elf blush palette for dark skin.

i highlight my skin with the shimmer color i put on my eyelid in order for things to look more cohesive. since i have some texture in the center of my cheeks, i keep my highlight closer to my temples, on the tip of my nose, and down the bridge. i then take a brighter glitter eyeshadow and, using a more precise brush, put that right in the center of the areas on my nose that i highlighted for more dimension.

eyes:

i do my eyeshadow before my eyebrows now. 

for eyeshadow, i usually put my bronzer in my crease and my outer v, and sometimes blend that out with a lighter/skin tone shade. on the lid, i put a light shimmer eyeshadow for contrast. on the inner corner, i use a very bright glitter eyeshadow, and lightly blend it onto the beginning of my lid. i also use the same eyeshadows on my bottom lid.

i use a tubing mascara since it’s gentle on the eyelashes, then i go in with regular mascara to make my lashes longer. my favorite regular mascaras are damn girl from toofaced (it has an antiflaking formula), the kush mascara from milk, and the maybelline lash sensational. all the mascaras i like are for lengthening. i also curl my lashes before and after putting on mascara.

this is when i do my eyebrows. i use a spoolie to shape them into a shape i like. using a pencil a shade or two lighter than my actual eyebrow color, i fill in the sparse areas and try to make my eyebrows as even as possible. 

for fake lashes, i usually use half lashes or wispy lashes. i like the ardell demi-wispies (i cut these in half and stack them), the kiss lashes in matte silk, the kiss lashes in teddy, and the koko lashes in queen bees. the idea is for people to still be able to see the eyeshadow despite me having lashes on.

lips:

since the base and eyes are the main focus of this look, the lips are always kept nude. i line my lips with a brown lipliner close to my skin tone (i use colourpop’s lipliner in BFF #3) and then fill it in with either a brown nude lipstick (sephora’s rouge lacquer lipstick in shade 43 be proud) and too with a clear gloss, or i fill it in with a pink/peachy nude and top with the fenty gloss bomb in the original shade.

tutorials i follow: 

THE ULTIMATE MAKEUP LOOK | Hindash

Victoria’s Secret Bombshell Glam w/ Marsha Hunt

Get The Victoria’s Secret Model Look – Makeup Tutorial | Charlotte Tilbury

Victoria's Secret Runway Makeup Look | Genelle

Victoria Secret Fashion Show Makeup ♡ Brown Girl Friendly

Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2018 Makeup Tutorial | Charlotte Tilbury

Glam Time with Romee Strijd

full glam

this is my full beat look. if i’m going out at night with my friends, or when i want makeup to be especially long-wearing, this is usually the routine i follow. 90s supermodel inspired, soft glam, fully matte, snatched/lifted, all nude/brown tones. lines up with my minimalistic & edgy style. 

base:

during the colder months, i like to use a pore-filling primer with a gripping primer on top, usually the elf putty primer in original or matte, and the elf watermelon primer or the milk hydrogrip primer like i said before. but during the summer, i have to use the becca ever-matte primer. it has a huge learning curve, but once you know how to use it, it’s a godsend for oily skin.

my first step is contour. i use the too faced born this way concealer in a color two shades darker than my skin tone and always with a cool undertone to mimic shadows. i put a small amount on my cheekbones to make them look higher, three lines on my forehead for depth, and i line my jawline to give the illusion of a smaller chin. then, i blend everything together with a beauty blender. to make it easy, you can use whatever concealer you like in a darker shade as a cream contour. 

next i conceal. i use the teint idole concealer from lancôme in one shade lighter than my skin tone, and i put concealer in all the places i want to highlight: under my eyes (a little by the sides of my nose, a line on the outside of my eye to lift), above my top lip, the middle of my forehead and chin, and a strip down my nose bridge. a little of this concealer goes a long way; i use less than half a pea-size for my entire face. for a little extra brightening, i use a really light colored concealer but only one dot in the inner corners of my eyes and a little on the nose bridge. for this, i just use the maybelline fit me concealer. before i add my foundation and blush, i make sure there are no harsh lines between my concealer and contour. 

i use a cream blush. to everyone who wears makeup, look into cream blush. it’ll change your life for the better. blush is an underrated but very important step in my makeup routine; blush can shape your face even better than contour. when i want my face to look lifted and sultry, i put my blush on my cheekbones close to my hairline and blend upwards. i use either the milk makeup cheek stick or the colourpop stick blush.

finally i go in with my fenty powder foundation. using a kabuki brush, i tap into my compact and then add the foundation to the parts of my face which have no concealer, blush, or contour first. then, i lightly go over my contour and blush, and around the edges of my concealer. this really saves you if you haven’t blended very well or went too heavy handed on the liquid products you used, since going over it with your skin toned powder tones the contour etc. down. i use the fenty powder foundation. it is very lightweight feeling in comparison to liquid foundation, and it never feels like i have a mask of product on my face when i use a powder. however, some of my favorite liquid foundations are the estee lauder double wear (full coverage matte), the too faced born this way (both the matte and regular versions), the fenty soft matte, and the anastasia beverly hills luminous foundation. at the drugstore, i like the nyx born to glow, the maybelline fit me, and the loreal infallible foundation.

setting powder is a must if you have oily skin. i prefer loose powders, but pressed powders also work, especially if you’re on the dry side. before setting my concealer, i blend out any creasing that happened. then i pour a small amount of powder into the lid, dip my sponge into it, then tap the excess off on the back of my hand (which evenly disperses the powder on the sponge too), then i press and roll the powder into my skin. i set every place that i put concealer with the laura mercier translucent loose setting powder in the shade honey, since it is lighter than my skin tone and is also a nice warm shade without being too yellow. because i use a powder foundation, i don’t have to set the rest of my face. the maybelline fit me loose setting powder in the shade medium is also a favorite of mine. 

after i set my makeup, i do bake the areas that i know will get very oily very quickly, so my nose, my chin, and my upper cheeks. if you have normal or dry skin, i wouldn’t recommend this at all. know what works for you and your skin type! i usually do my eye makeup while the powder sits. instead of wiping the excess powder away at the end i actually use a brush and press it into my skin in order to avoid any patchiness.

eyes:

my eyebrows are a pretty nice shape naturally (and i groom them weekly), so doing my eyebrows is usually pretty simple. i like to outline the bottom of my eyebrows with either a pomade or a darker pencil, then i fill in my eyebrows with a lighter colored eyebrow pencil, mimicking hairlike strokes so it looks natural. i then go over everything with an eyebrow gel. unlike base products, i would never pay a lot for eyebrow products. my favorite eyebrow pomade is the milani pomade, though the anastasia dipbrow is a classic. my favorite eyebrow pencil is the maybelline brow ultra slim, and the gel i use is the benefit gimme brow but i’ve been meaning to try the new nyx brow glue.

before i put on eyeshadow, i use an eyeshadow primer. i get really oily eyelids, so i need that barrier so my eyeshadow won’t crease. i put a very small amount onto my brush and blend it out on my eyelids. it also creates a blank canvas so my eyeshadows can pop more.

i won’t go in-depth with eyeshadow, but i will say my “formula” is usually as follows: a color slightly darker than my skin tone in the crease, a dark color on the outer v, and a really light color on the lid. sometimes i use a shimmer for my inner corner highlight, and sometimes i use a matte color instead. eyeliner isn’t necessary, but sometimes i use it in my waterline or by tightlining, and sometimes i use eyeshadow instead for a smoked out look.

for this look, i always use cat-eye shaped lashes, or half-lashes, or a few individual lashes on the outer corners of my eyes. it all adds to the “lifted” effect that i’m going for. 

lips:

since my lips are naturally very big, i almost never put color on them since it always comes across as trying too hard. i like to stick with a nude ombre look. i use a lipliner close to my skin tone first (bff #3 by colourpop), rub my lips together to blend the liner out, add a light colored nude in the center, blend again, line the very outer parts of my lips with a dark brown, and finally blend again. sometimes i add a gloss, usually the fenty gloss bomb in the shade fu$$y or i use a gold colored gloss to make my lips look more warm toned so they match my eyeshadow.

tutorials i follow:

What The Hell Is SOFT GLAM MAKEUP?!

90s Glam Makeup on Dark Skin | KeviKodra

MY FLAWLESS SOFT GLAM TUTORIAL AND A CHAT ABOUT FEAR | The Queen Hadassah

GRWM: IG Model Glam | Kevin Luong Inspired Makeup Tutorial | Gold Smokey Eye + Soft Beach Waves

90's MATTE MAKEUP TRANSFORMATION! | Hindash

Aysha Harun's Guide To Soft Glam Makeup | Beauty Secrets | Vogue Inspired

This New Too Faced Foundation...I HAVE THOUGHTS

[debbiebeary]

Disgust and Ecstacey

3

Hayden’s belly jiggled and wobbled violently in the dim, hippy light of the room. The combination of the incense and marijuana haze made the doughy expanse of his body appear even softer and more rounded. The curtains were slightly drawn and in the light was a smoky beam, the rest of the room was lit by red string lights and a few kitschy lamps.

In Hayden’s chunky arms, arms with those beautiful biceps that mushed up against his moobs into a cellulity pillow, he carried Ben and Jerries, peanut butter sandwiches, and some bananas (hey, digestion is important, ok?)

“Alright little britches” said Hayden, time to get to three hundred!” He said as his uncovered belly, lightly shined with sweat, surged forward even more as he added to the snacks already present on the table (chocolate, korean fried chicken and potato chips).

Dillon laughed.

“Oh come on I only reached two fifty yesterday!”

“Only two fifty!?” Cried a voice from across the swirling aromatic haze.

“Only two fifty?!” He repeated, standing up and revealing his own two hundred seventy pound form, he put his meaty paws onto his lightly dark furred, pear shaped body and gave it a strong jiggle, “That’s forty pounds since you arrived, it’s only been a month and a half! If you keep it up you’ll be bigger than me!”

Dillon looked down at his stretchmark covered gut and heaving moobs, which themselves had stretchmarks emerging near the armpits and also stretchmarks on his biceps too. His growth surely exceeded his own expectations. And it didn’t help that Garry, whom was the coffee shops resident chaser turned chub himself, was always feeding Dillon super creamy specialty coffees free of charge throughout his shift.

“Yeah. Who knows,” he began, a smug grin forming between his fattening cheeks and burgeoning double chin, both beginning to dominate his features even under his thickening beard, “perhaps I will hit three hundred.”

“Well it isn’t a matter of ‘if’, it’s a matter of ‘when’. And either way,” Hayden paused to toke the joint he just lit, stifling a cough before he continued, “either way, you gotta eat to make that happen, pig.” And without warning he took a peanut butter sandwich and crammed into an unsuspecting Dillon’s fattening maw. Garry wore a lascivious smirk on his face as he yet again watched Hayden work his gluttonous magic on Dillon.

“Remember!” the three hundred fifty pound blonde stud mumbled after tearing a massive chunk out of his own sandwich, “we match each other bite for bite, no matter what” he continued, swallowing the mouthful into his growling, churning tank, giving it an emphatic slap.

Dillon chewed and swallowed his own mouthful,

“Yes big bear-“

But he was interrupted by Hayden once again plugging his airways with the second half of the sandwich.

Dillon could feel the scale shattering beneath his feet already.

Again and again, handfuls of chocolate brownies, of chips, fried chicken (with an inspired melted Velveeta American cheese dip) were shoved into the awaiting Dillon's mouth by the bronze skinned, blonde haired hunky blob. Though Garry was the bottom, Hayden, a versatile boy who when he was a top, was a very dominant top. This extended to feeding.

Though Hayden was attracted to Dillon, he found force feeding him aggressively to be somehow even more… penetrating. More satisfying than the thought of fucking him ever could be. He was morphing Dillon’s body, potentially towards a permanent absolution. He may never go back to the way he was before the summer began.

Dillon could see the twisted thrill in Hayden’s eyes as he crammed in handful after handful and despite the overstuffed pain in his abdomen he kept opening his mouth, begging again and again for the ruin of his once athletic form.

Hayden had heard tales of the pretentious condescension of Brian. Of his prideful taste in skinny boys, his carbon-copied preferences. In this a dark desire lay, one in which to sever Dillon from his obnoxious fuckbuddy. All he would need were calories and time.

Of which he incidentally had both.

“Damn Hayden, you’re turning him into a blimp!”

“Bwaaap!” Was Hayden’s guttural reply, “ugh, fuck. S’cuse me! Turning myself into a blimp while I’m at it too, don’t ya think Gerry boy?”

Gerry was too busy drooling at them both with big horny puppy eyes to respond, but Hayden’s smile curled with smug deviousness.

Eventually the snacks dwindled until nothing was left and Dillon's already stretchmark laden gut was now bright red and itchy with swelling.

Hayden smacked Dillon’s belly, causing him to wince,

“Fuck!”

“Sorry fatboy, couldn’t help myself, you look like you got a full litter in there.”

“Yeah. A hundred food babies in one. Feel like imma puke.”

Hayden snatched a lit joint that Gerry was enjoying and popped it in Dillon’s mouth, Dillon sucked in frantically,

“Make yourself useful, Gerry. Rub his belly with some of that CBD/tiger balm concoction I made, can’t have him purging all these beautiful calories now can we?”

“N-no sir!” Said Gerry, Gerry always turned into a bitch when Hayden threw his weight around.

“Good boy. Alright Dillon, just hold tight,”

“Uuuuhh. Ok. No I can have that last drumstick then we’re done, I’d rather get this over with and just have some cuddles after.”

“Yeah alright, big dude.”

Hayden let Dillon sink his teeth into the glistening red drumstick, courtesy of the local fried chicken restaurant, Han Ten, Han for the name of the chubby korean bear who owned the pace, ten for ten different glazes. Toasted Perilla, butter honey, spicy, lemon, sweet and sour etcetera. They even had a Ghanaian spicy peanut butter based sauce that was a real zinger. But the one they had was the hybrid honey butter/gochujang ketchup, the K-Supreme with American Cheese Dip, toasted garlic chips and green onions to finish, Dillon’s favourite thing in the world besides Hayden’s succulent puckered-in belly button.

Dillon, after finishing the last bite, let out a rather meaty burp and panted out:

“That’s it, all done…” struggling to breathe, “but it isn’t as bad as last time, uuurap, I’m feeling waaay less sick now, Hayden?”

Hayden was in the kitchen, the fridge door shining it’s menacing white light upon Hayden’s summer- bronzed, food-speckled gut. When Hayden caught Dillon's eye reflected in it was his own evil scheming.

From the glowing gainers bastion of the fridge, like an amulet or treasure of untold power, Hayden withdrew a gallon of chocolate milk.

“Uurp! Fuck, no Hayden that’s pushing it too far! There is no way, mmmlf!”

“Hahaha, you like this funnel? Just got it,” but Dillon managed to spit it out

“Hayden no! Even splitting it it’s way too much for me! I’m too packed!”

Hayden’s face took on a demonic appearance as, with the sun now fully set, the red lights stretched the shadows across his face into l demented forms.

“Whoah, shit this is strong weed.” Dillon suddenly remarked,

“Yeah I cut it with a bit of salvia too, gives everything a nice… twinkle.”

“Well I’m not sure ooouhf!” Hayden shoved the tube back into Dillon's mouth,

“You didn’t let me finish… I’m not splitting this with you, you’re taking ALL OF IT!”

“Whoah, Hayden! You sure? He seems pretty full.”

“He’ll be fine once you get your lips wrapped around his cock, Garry.”

Garry grew quiet.

“RIGHT GERRY!?!”

“Yes sir…”

“Good boy… ok Dillon, open up your throat and GUZZLE! Garry. Uh. Do the same.”

As Garry face planted Dillon’s dick, Dillon was reinvigorated and began to suck down the sweet chocolaty goodness. Garry was a master, sucking Dillon’s meaty head, flicking his slit with his tongue, and deepthroating him like a pro, he never let Dillon get used to his w and was building up to a climax rapidly.

“Yeah you fat fuck, we keep this up you’ll be 400 in no time.”

Dillon moaned. The Gallon was now only half.

“Come on tubbs, you know you want it, you want to beach yourself on the couch and eat and smoke and drink until you’re nothing but a big fat whale.” The gallon was empty but still Dillon sucked on the tube.

“Greedy pig. You still want more?”

withdrawing the tube from Dillon’s mouth, his tortured stomach released a torrent of pressure as Dillon sprayed out a fat wet belch which rolled across the hazy apartment like thunder.

“UUURRRRP!”

In the same moment Hayden, smirking demonically, leaned down and pinched Dillon’s nipple, Dillon convulsed and shot his load, hosing down Garry’s throat with his seed.

“FUUUUCK!” He screamed in agonizing pleasure.

Garry nearly choked on Dillon’s load.

“Holy fuck. Looks like Dillon isn’t the only one that sucked down a gallon of sweet nectar, eh Garry?”

Garry let out a burp of his own before responding.

“I’d say it’s rather more savory but yeah. Basically.”

“Come on, help this fat fuck up, I wanna weigh him.”

“Urrp, fuck guys won’t you give me a second?”

“No fucking way, I wanna see the damage we did, let’s go tubbs!”

After laboring them to the bathroom, they made him stand unaided, swaying dizzily under his own strength after a few minutes of assistance, finally the scale read out its deliberation.

Hayden screamed in disbelief:

“FUCK ME! Two sixty five!?!”