#wonder what their actual escape plan could’ve been.

[howlsofbloodhounds]

i think that whenever killer is in stage 1, especially when he’s still held hostage by nightmare and color and he are working on a safe escape, that killer always makes sure to tell color that he’d understand if color left or gave up. that he wouldn’t hold it against him.

and color always firmly denies it and turns down the offer. he’d never leave or give up on him—and the danger and threat of the situation scares him enough that he knows he can’t leave killer alone with it.

[httpscomexe]

Forbidden Secret Desire 4

Summary: You finally put all of the pieces together and your pursuer tries to make a move, failing horribly, so you decide it’s the best plan to just escape.

(Find What I’m currently writing by checking my pinned post)

Parings: Logan Howlett x Reader

Warnings: (Individual warnings per chapter) Mentions of hidden camera, forced touch, clueless reader. Logan is an official warning as approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) because Logan is a DRUG. PLEASE BE AWARE that this will be a NON-CON fic. Do NOT get attached if you do not like non-consensual fiction. I will not change my fic plans because somebody decided not to read the warnings. Thank you.

Tags: @remmyj10 @sammyluvsfics @badbishsblog @dickmaster3000 @cellyx33

Word Count: 3483 (All other chapters here) Chapter 5

P.S. If you’d like to be tagged, ask in the comments, you also have permission to send an ask, but make sure it is NOT anonymous, so I know your username, don’t worry, I’m scared of confrontation too. But this is a SAFE SPACE where I will not judge. Thank you again.

Enjoy your Forbidden Secret Desire…

“Logan?” You call his name as you barge into his office without knocking, not bothering to have any boundaries since the matter seemed important. You were being watched through a camera for the last two days after all.

“Is Mr. Howlett in here?” You ask after being allowed in the lounge where some other teachers were having their lunch break. You had been searching for him all day, and you haven’t seen him once. You figured you would’ve seen him during third period, since he was supposed to be the substitute the entire week, but looked to no avail. You even asked around, wondering if anyone else had seen him. You were slightly hopeful when a few students claimed they saw him on hall duty during the first passing period, but then you were once again in the dark.

You skipped your fourth period also, hoping you might be able to find him outside in the garden or near the little park in the back of the school. Even searching the greenhouse, but of course. He was nowhere to be found. You knew he didn’t leave anywhere, his truck was still parked in the lot where it’s always parked, so eventually you just gave up on searching for him, and headed back to your room to catch up on any assignments you’d missed throughout the day.

As you entered your room and locked your door, you internally groaned. You weren’t sure what to do about the stupid bear, so you went into your closet to collect it.

“Oh! Mr. Howlett…” You yelp in surprise as you collide with Logan in your closet. “Uh what- what’re you doing in here?” You take a few steps back and cross your arms over your chest.

“I came to check on you, you’ve been missing all day.” He tells you, his voice seemed different, almost more tired or grumpier than usual.

“Oh, yea- I’ve actually been looking for you.” He sets the bear down on your desk, once again facing your bed. “Uh- I actually had a question about-” You look down at the bear, the little red light was gone. “Uh…”

“What is it?” He asks, his voice softening down to normal. But you don’t answer. Instead, you continue to look down at the bear. Its eyes were solid black and the whirring noise was gone.

“Never mind actually.” Your shoulders slump. If the red dot wasn’t there, then how would you prove to him that someone was watching you? Maybe he was the one watching you?

…

Nah. He wouldn’t do that. Right?

“Alright, well…” He crosses his arms, and looks down at you. “Are you sure? You look dumbfounded.” You see his hand in front of you but you pay it no mind, until you feel his index finger under your chin and he gently makes you look up at him and away from the bear. “Is it something about the bear? What’s going on?”

“No, no. Nothing’s going on, the bear is awesome. Everything’s cool.” There’s no fucking way he would’ve put a camera inside of the bears eye. Would he? He wouldn’t. He’s the only one that could’ve. No one else had been in your room before. Kurt has. Yesterday was his first time…

“You’re lying to me, pup. I don’t like it. Clearly something is going on.” Your eyes continue to stare into his, as if you were trying to connect to his soul.

“Nothing’s wrong, I promise.” You chuckle slightly. Maybe you shouldn’t bring it up to him… Just in case. “I would tell you if there was.” His hand moves, his index finger going from under your chin to gently caressing your jaw before his hand cups your cheek.

“I still feel like you’re lying to me, but okay.” He drops his hand down to his side and stares at you for a moment, now it was his turn to read into your soul.

But the bell rings just in time. “Anyways, I really have to finish some work that I wasn’t able to catch up on today. So I’ll see you tomorrow.” You force a soft smile onto your lips, trying to make everything seem fine instead of letting out your inner I’m being watched! Someone put a camera inside of my bear and has been watching me sleep! Also sometimes it would make this clicking sound so I’m pretty sure they’re also taking pictures of me when I’m getting dressed and undressed and I have NO idea what to do PLEASE HOLD ME!

That wouldn’t be very appropriate.

“Alright. Well, let me know if you need me for anything please. Anything.” He repeats, his finger making its way back under your chin as you freeze and he presses a kiss to your forehead. Well that’s not very appropriate either now is it? “Have a good night, Y/N.” He tells you, before leaving the room. And you stand still in place. For about a solid ten minutes.

Thousands of thoughts race through your mind. Your brain completely detached from what's in front of you as you stare at the wall and picture nothingness. What if he was the one watching you? He wouldn’t do that. Then why was he kissing you? It was just the forehead. It’s still not appropriate, maybe you should tell someone you trust. You only trust him. What about Kurt? And what’s he gonna do? Seriously, you were sure Logan was just being friendly. He’s just as awkward as you. Now if he started going further, then you would worry. But for now, you had other matters to deal with. Including emails and homework.

You sit on your bed and open your computer to once again, another thousand emails from “Erik Lehnsherr,” all asking about things you know everything about. Nanotech, electricity, (Which was a bit personal if you ask me, considering you produce it) and a bunch of other stuff. Sometimes it makes you wonder why he doesn’t just ask google.

After answering a dozen of them, a few of them he decides to send back with a secondary question, before you finally send one last email.

“I’ll get back to you tomorrow. This is a lot of typing, so maybe it would be better to ask me some of these things in person? I have a lot of work to do also. So, goodnight!” You tap send, and it takes a moment before the ‘sent’ message pops up on the bottom of the screen. Now you just had to finish your homework. You tell yourself, opening your google classroom and tapping the first assignment. Reading human body language. Great.

“So he was just standing there?”

“Yea, it was so weird…”

“How did he get in?”

“I don’t know, he’s a teacher, maybe he has a key?”

“Still doesn’t explain why he was in your room.”

“He claims he was looking for me, I guess worried?” You explain, shrugging your shoulders with your locker open, Kurt leaning on the one next to you as you both talk back and forth.

“He couldn’t send you an email or a text.” You shrug again and close your locker.

“Look, correct me if I’m wrong, but he’s definitely the one that put the camera in your bear, it’s the only thing that would make sense.” It was now his turn to shrug.

“Oh come on. He’s not like that.” Kurt just stares at you, his head slightly tilted. “Ugh, you’re unbearable. I mean what makes you think he’s smart enough to know how to use a camera?”

“Literally no one else has had access to your room.”

“That’s the only thing that gets me.”

“Okay, then who else is on your list for who could’ve gone into your room, put a camera in your bear, then left without being noticed?” Silence. You obviously didn’t have any other names on your list. It was Wednesday already, and you’d just discovered the camera two days ago, so regardless of who it was, you still had to tough it out for the rest of the week to be able to report anything to Xavier. He apparently has no phone reception in the mountains. “Exactly.”

“What’re you two lovebirds talkin’ about?” Alex and Scott bring you out of your thoughts, Alex with a mouthful of pizza as Scott does the talking.

“I thought you two were out for the rest of the week?” Kurt turns away from you, ignoring Scotts comment. “Something about being disruptive in class?”

“Yea, we’re supposed to be at home but he forgot some books in his room.”

“He forgot them?”

“Yea.”

“Then why are you here?” Kurt crosses his arms, the tip of his sharp tail moving to wag as it glides across the lockers. Why did you never realise he has a tail? Wait… “Looks more like you two are the love birds in this situation.”

“Aww, are you getting mad cause we’re talking about your little girl-”

“Boys!” A female voice booms from the other side of the hall. “I gave you five minutes to collect your- wait, is that a pizza in your mouth! Where in the world- No you get back here!” They both quickly scramble away, and the teachers' heels echo as they pass you and Kurt to follow them.

You sigh. “Okay you make a point, but we should-”

“Report it?”

“No, we should leave it be until Xavier gets back.”

“Okay, what if it goes further than the camera? What if your clothes start going missing..?”

“If my clothes start going missing then maybe I’ll consider doing something. But honestly, it just doesn’t seem like him. Not only does he not seem the stalking type, but he definitely would NOT be able to figure out how to connect the camera to his phone, computer, whatever it is.” You explain quickly, not catching a breath until you’re finished.

“Okay… just.” He takes his own deep breath, looking down at you with soft eyes. “Let me know if you need anything from me, okay?”

“Okay. Thank you, Kurt. You’re too sweet.” You smile softly, softly punching his shoulder before beginning to turn around. “I’ll be in my room, so call if you need to, I’m not busy.” Pushing your door open, you see him leaving the lockers from the corner of your eye before you actually step into your room. Locking the door and then immediately checking every corner of your room to make sure no one was in there, before you finally relaxed. Or at least your body relaxed.

Your mind on the other hand raced with thoughts. What if it’s not Logan, and it’s some creep student. You’d be reporting the teacher who helped you be friends with Kurt. That wouldn’t be nice. On the other hand, what if it is Logan? Then what? You have to prove it to Xavier that it was him. The app on his phone showing the camera and the pictures in his gallery would prove it for sure. You realise he probably would’ve deleted everything by now. As soon as he realised the bear was moved into the closet I’m sure he would’ve gotten rid of the proof.

Your mind races for hours, and before you know it, the sun is down. Your head still pounding with what could be the case and what would happen if you did what, each scenario runs rampant in your head, making you dizzy as you unconsciously moved until you were lying on your stomach, your pillow thrown over the back of your head in attempt to silence the thoughts.

Then you feel a hand on the small of your back, immediately causing you to flinch and sit up on your ass, reading to start kicking the damned asshole that's been- oh its Kurt. Wait…

“Are you okay?” You don’t answer him, you instead spring forward, falling into his arms as a few stray tears fall from your cheeks, his tail moving up in the most attractive way possible to wipe the tears off your cheeks, his arms wrapped around your waist as he squeezes you.

You both sit like that for a while, at some point he even moves to lean against your headboard, still holding you in his lap, then his hands move, causing you to sit up slightly, unaware of the way you were positioned on his lap as his hands cradle your face and he looks into your eyes.

“What’s going on?” He whispers softly, not exactly expecting an answer, but figuring your eyes would probably tell him anyway. You sniffle.

“Wait-” Your voice cracks, and you shut your eyes to think. “How did you- when- why?”

“Are you gonna finish any of those questions?” He asks rhetorically, his hands making their way to rest on your thighs. “I came in here like five minutes ago, You weren’t answering your phone and it’s only eight so I got worried.”

“And how..?”

“Honey, I can teleport.” He chuckles, his head tilting slightly, your brain completely ignoring the pet name he’s decided to give you.

“Oh… Yea…” You say softly, and you feel his tail move on your back before it pushes you carefully towards him, his hands moving to wrap back around your waist as he takes you in for another hug, and you rest your forehead on his shoulders. You weren’t crying anymore. Instead, new thoughts ran through your head. He can teleport.

He can teleport…

He can teleport…

He can… teleport?

You didn’t know that before. You snap back out of your brain to feel one of his hands on the bare skin of your back, which makes you sit up awkwardly, causing his hand to move across your waist until it's back on your thigh.

“I didn’t know you could teleport.”

“Really? I figured you knew that already.”

“No.” Your voice sounded more stern. He wouldn’t. Would he?

His hands gently move up. His left hand stopping on your wait and his right hand continuing up to your cheek, you also feel something wrap gently around your calf. Something felt wrong. And it makes you feel sick. You clear your throat a little, and try to count to yourself.

Shit… His right hand moves just slightly, his thumb moving softly over your bottom lip as you stare into his eyes, your brows quirked in confusion but they were devoured in tiredness. Then his hand gently cups the back of your neck, and his tail wraps just slightly tighter around your calf. Then he kisses you. Why is he kissing you? He’s supposed to just be your friend. He shouldn’t be doing this. You pull away slightly, but his lips just trail down from your lips to your neck, gently biting at your skin. You open your mouth to say something, but your voice catches in your throat. Then both of his hands gently move down to your waist before he softly pushes you onto your back. NOPE.

You scramble out from under him, but his tail tightens around your calf. “What’s wrong…?” He asks, trying his hardest to sound innocent.

“What do you think you’re doing..?” You finally choke out, pulling again before his tail finally loosens around your leg.

“I just thought-”

“Please get out.” You demand, not letting him finish. Your voice embarrassingly raises a few octaves as you speak. “Now.” Voice shaking, you sit up straight before he finally moves.

“Okay… I’m sorry.” He tells you softly, getting off your bed and making his way to the door, “Goodnight.” He says before finally leaving.

Then you actually catch your breath. What the fuck just happened. He can teleport. Logan. Logan in the morning. Logan…

“Logan!” You barge into his office, but this time he’s there, looking at his computer for a moment before his eyes shift onto you above the screen, barging in with red cheeks and a red nose, and a shaking body. Which is why he stands up quickly and walks towards you, letting him fall into his arms and sob quietly.

“There you go… you’re okay, pup. It’s okay… just breathe.” He whispers soothingly, pressing gentle kisses to the top of your head as his hand softly runs over your back, trying with his best effort to get you to calm down, and reaching behind you for a moment to lock his door, making sure no one else could barge in. “It’s okay, pup… I’ve got you.” He kisses the top of your head one final time before resting his chin there, his arms still wrapped around you as your own arms are squeezing around his waist.

“Okay…” He whispers again after a few moments of not hearing your sobbing. “Tell me what’s going on?” He gently moves his hands to rest on your shoulders, carefully creating a distance big enough for him to look down at you as you use the backs of your hands to dry your cheeks.

“There was a camera…” You start, actually debating whether or not to tell him. Fuck it. You tell yourself again. “It was inside of my bear's eye, and it was watching me, and at first the whirring sound didn’t bother me cause I thought it was my neighbours, I don’t have neighbours, and the clicking drove me crazy. I couldn’t think, every time there was a click. He said it was you, but you don’t know how to deal with simple tech, I told him that, you were the only other one to touch the bear, and he’s never been in my room before, but he can teleport, he teleported, I didn’t know he could teleport, then I ask him, and he kissed me and-”

“Okay, okay.” He interrupts you finally, placing his palm over your mouth. “So somebody put a camera in the eye of your bear?”

“Mhm, Kurt.”

“Okay…” He nods slightly, squinting his eyes as if to take in the information. “He was taking pictures of you, and whirring and clicking what’s with that?”

“See that’s why I know it wasn’t you… It was the camera making sounds.”

“And Kurt thought it was me?” You nod. “He said he’s never been in your room before?” You nod again. “But he can… teleport?” He finishes, making you nod hysterically.

“And then he forced me to kiss him…” You pout a little, your shoulders dropping as you remember what happened in detail. It disgusted you.

“He…” He clears his throat slightly. “Forced you to kiss him…” His voice deepens, but you don’t notice it as you nod some more. “Should I call him in here?” He shrugs himself a little.

“No, no. No, I don't want to see him.” You move away slightly, freaking out.

“Okay, okay. Pup, hun, come here.” He reaches out, gently cupping your face in his hands. “If you don’t want me to then I won’t. But you have to tell me what you want me to do.”

“Am I able to get another room?” His jaw clenches slightly as he thinks about it, then he lets go of you and moves to look at his computer. After moving his mouse and typing some things on his keyboard. “So I can’t. I can only see what room students have, you can request it from Xavier though and he will look into it when he gets-” You groan in the middle of his sentence as he moves away from his desk and you land your forehead on his chest. “-back from his mission.” He finishes telling you, gently wrapping his arms around your waist to pull you closer.

“I don’t wanna be alone in my room anymore at night though. What if he comes in while I’m sleeping? Or what if-” He silences you by placing his palm over your mouth again.

“The only thing I can suggest is not sleeping in the mansion until you get a room change.”

“But I’m not allowed to leave…”

“How is Xavier gonna know?”

“I don’t have a place to go…”

“I have a log cabin.” He tells you, making your eyes practically sparkle slightly. “If you’d like, I can take the rest of the week off and take you there. I can put in an excuse for you.”

You think about it, your eyes leaving his eyes as they stare past him.

“You don’t have to of course. It’s completely up to you. But if you really want to get away from Kurt, then come with me to the cabin. I’ll keep you safe.” He tells you, his left arm moving around your waist and his right hand gently tilting your head up so he could look into your eyes.

“Okay…” You whisper, moving closer again to fall into his arms and onto his chest as his arms snake back around you, as he presses one final kiss to your forehead…

[justwinginglife]

Always You, Part 1.5

I couldn't stop listening to "Don't Smile" from Sabrina's new album (yes, it is yet another fic based off of one of her songs LOL), so to prove to yall that I am actually thinking about the Always You series, and working on it, here's a short fic from our POV during the breakup. Sorry for angsting, this fic series has me in my FUCKING FEELINGS.

You hadn’t believed Soshiro had dumped you at first. 

You couldn’t have heard him right. If you had, he must’ve been joking. You wanted to touch him, to tilt his chin up so you could meet his gaze, search the depths of his eyes for some semblance of an answer -he had been unable to look at you through this whole endeavor- but you wondered if that was the reason he was leaving you, if you had selfishly claimed too much of him too many times.

Was he tired of you? Had he fallen out of love with you? Did he not feel the way you felt? Was your whole relationship just some fantasy you’d concocted in your head? Were your most precious memories nothing more than fiction? Was he never yours to begin with?

Before you could process the reality of the situation, before you could beg for some closure, he was gone. If you’d known he was going to leave that quickly, you would’ve chained him to the spot, forced him to face you. But then what? What would you have said? What would you have done? Got on your knees and pleaded with him to love you? Curse at him, tell him you hated him? Bawl your eyes out and hope he found some shred of sympathy for you? That he’d pull you into his arms and declare this all a bad dream? Was there even anything you could’ve done? Was this your fate? Was this what you were resigned to? How long had he been planning this? How long had he been desiring an escape? What had you done to deserve this?

You trudged home, numb and aching all at once. You couldn’t feel your feet hitting the ground but you could feel the pain of loss carving its way into your chest, threatening to stay there indefinitely. You couldn’t feel the tears spilling down your face, blurring your vision, but you could feel the churning in your stomach. You couldn’t feel your throat going dry but you could feel the acid that threatened to trigger your gag reflex. 

You thought your mattress might erode away as you settled yourself into its cushions and vowed never to leave. You thought your pillow might melt from the frequent onslaught of tears it endured. You thought you might just die here and nobody would know. 

You hadn’t even told anyone that Soshiro had dumped you; you hadn’t wanted to make the nightmare a reality just yet. But if you were in denial, your heart certainly did not feel that way. Your heart had accepted every harsh truth and it had the audacity to keep painfully beating in your chest. You wondered if you could beg it to stop. Would he care if it stopped? Did he care if you lived or died, or were those concerns only reserved for boyfriends? 

The days passed by, each one achingly slow, each one filled with crippling doubts and insecurities, each one a torturous reminder of the emptiness in your bed, of the deafening silence in your house. Then days turned into weeks and you learned how to walk again, if only to make it to the bathroom and resume your crying there. When the weeks turned into months, it became harder to deny that he’d left you, that he wasn’t coming back, that he wasn’t in love with you anymore. But you’d try to deny it anyway, drowning your sorrows in liquor, telling yourself when you reached the bottom of the bottle, he’d be yours again, and in between blackouts and hallucinations of better days, you’d find solace in the ghost of him. When the months turned into years, and you heard news that Soshiro had moved on with someone else, you felt the fresh pain of your breakup all over again. You felt suffocated by the memories of what once was and the dreams of what could’ve been. 

You already knew he was the one for you, anyone who came after would only ever be second place. Any semblance of happiness that you could scrounge up after him would feel superficial in comparison to the heaven you’d once had with him. You wondered if he felt the same.

Did he see you in her eyes? Did he picture you beside him when she rolled over in his bed? Did he taste you on her lips?

Or did he never love you at all?

You’d always thought that maybe the two of you would both stay single another decade or two before finally running into each other at your favorite cafe again and then you’d rekindle old flames. You realized just how pathetic that sounded when you heard that she was talking houses and marriage with him. You hoped that she was doing all the talking, that he was only half listening. But the problem was hoping for anything at all. 

How long could you keep doing this to yourself? 

How long could you keep holding on?

How long until it killed you?

[kfkr1ze]

[002-A16] Scissor Words

Summary — ✈︎ The egg that suddenly grew legs managed to escape Kiroku’s grasp and ran away. Kiroku chases it, but he quickly loses sight of it…

Characters— ✈︎ Kiroku, Akuta, Muneuji, Nanaki, Sakujiro

Location: Youkai Art Museum in Shodoshima

Kiroku: …………

Egg: ………

Kiroku: …… Ah…… there’s legs.

Egg: ………

Kiroku: ……Ah!

W-Wait……!

Kaede: (It’s around the time we agreed to meet up. 

… I wonder if Kiroku-kun had fun.)

Hm?

Kaede: Wow, what’s this? There’s an egg-like object with legs. Is it a youkai? Having something like this displayed at the entrance… It’s creepy but cute too!

I wanna take a picture. Where’s the camera app…

Kiroku: Hah, hah……!

Kaede: Wah!

Kiroku: Gh……!

Kaede: You surprised me…!

Why are you in such a hurry, Kiroku-kun?

Egg: ………

Kiroku: (Moving side to side) …………!

Kaede: (He’s panicking while trying to see what’s behind me…?)

Kiroku: Ah, wah…… Mn……!

(Please don’t look… over there……!)

Kaede: Eh? What is it?

Egg: ………

Kiroku: Uh……!

Kaede: … He ran away.

Huuh!? The egg-like object isn’t here anymore…!

Location: Maze Town in Shodoshima

Kiroku: Hah…… Hah…… Hah……!

(…I lost it… What do I do……)

(I have to tell everyone on the walkie talkie app……)

Dewawa: You sure you wanna tell?

You wanna be the one who tells everyone that you lost the egg that everyone tried so hard to take care of?

Kiroku: ………

Dewawa: They’re already gonna be upset won’t they?

And on top of that, you haven’t made any progress with the lantern art right?

Pinfu: Right～

They might think you’re so pathetic since you can’t do anything at all〜

Kiroku: …………

Rouzel: That’s not true! You should just contact them! I’m sure that everyone would be worried!

Ripris: It… doesn’t matter what you do…

Both chasing the egg… and contacting everyone… is such a pain… ZZZ.

KB: Personally, I believe the best solution would be to contact the rest of themーー

What will you do, Kiroku?

Kiroku: ………

……I’m not…… telling them.

Location: Otomari Chuuzaemon Inn in Shodoshima

Akuta: This olive soumen is SUPER good! I can munch on it as much as I want! Endless munching!

Muneuji: The fried soumen from the other day was good, but this soumen is good as well.

Nanaki: Is Chief here?

Akuta: Oh, nah he’s not here right now.

Muneuji: I believe he went out with Kinugawa earlier.

Nanaki: Yeah? Then I guess later will be fine. 

Akuta: By the way Nanaki, are you in a good mood? You’ve been all smiley lately. Did something happen?

Nanaki: Oh actually, I was just working on the song for the encore of the summer festival. The one that’s supposed to match the BPM of the fireworks, 

I just wanted to show it to the chief a little since I finished it. 

Akuta: EH!? Nanaki, you can make music!?

Nanaki: Well. Yeah I can.

Akuta: REALLY～～～～?! I also challenged myself to make music before, but I couldn’t do it y’know～～～～!

Man, I can’t even read sheet music. The notes just look like tadpoles dancing…

I really respect people who can make songs〜!

Meaning I really respect you, Nanaki～～～！

Nanaki: You’re going way too hard on the praise.

Akuta: You don’t gotta be humble! Actually, I really wanna make a song one day, so you gotta help me!

Nanaki: If I feel like it.

Akuta: Yayy!

I gotta make a plan to get you to feel like it soon～～～！

Muneuji: … By the way. 

Yesterday, Kinugawa was the one who got the egg, wasn't he? 

But I haven’t seen his face at all today.

In other words, that would mean he still has the egg.

Nanaki: Now that you mention it, you’re probably right about that.

Muneuji: And he hasn’t come online on the walkie talkie app at all today… If I’m being honest, I’m a bit worried.

Nanaki: You think something bad happened?

Akuta: Nahh I’m sure he’s all good! I mean that guy looks like he’s strong!

Muneuji: No… He could’ve been abducted by an alien. 

Nanaki: I-I’m not too sure about that.

Muneuji: I don’t think it’ll be a problem since Chief is also with him, but just in case, I’m going to look for him outside.

Nanaki: No, I’m pretty sure you’re getting too anxious. You should calm down. 

Muneuji: If he got abducted, it’d be too late to save him…! (Quickly runs away)

Akuta: Huh?

Kiroku: …… I finally…… found it.

(But… I think it got scared of a crow… and started clinging to the branch of a tree……)

Egg: …………

Kiroku: …… You can’t …… get off?

Egg: …………

Kiroku: (If I spread out my shirt… it can act like a trampoline.)

…… Come here.

Egg: …………!

Kiroku: …… You did it. That’s great.

Egg: …………!

Kiroku: (…Cute… Okay I have to… hurry and bring the egg to everyone……)

(But.)

(Looks around.)

Kiroku: (I don't know where this is…… And it’s getting dark. I should talk to the kids[1]… Ah.)

I… don’t have the finger puppets……

(No, before I look for them, I have to hand the egg over to the next person…)

(I’m getting a lot of notifications on the walkie talkie app… I should respond to everyone … No, but)

Dewawa: They’re already gonna be upset won’t they?

And on top of that, you haven’t made any progress with the lantern art right?

Pinfu: Right～

They might think you’re so pathetic since you can’t do anything at all〜

Kiroku: (I definitely can’t…… I need to do this… on my own.

I have to hurry and bring the egg home…!)

(But, I also can’t just leave those kids behind……

Especially on a trip to a place I might never come back to……)

(We’ve been together for practically my whole life……

Those kidsーー)

Ah……

Kaede: Kiroku-kun! Thank goodness…!

Sakujiro: So you were in a place like this.

Kaede: You did have a GPS with you, but I was really worried when you just up and left like that!

Kiroku: I… I’m… sorry……

Kaede: No, it’s fine. I’m just glad that you’re safe. But next time, don’t run around so much that you end up getting lost.

Also… Here.

Kiroku: ……Ah……!

Kaede: I found them on the side of the road. They’re yours, right Kiroku-kun?

Kiroku: …… Yes…… They’re… my friends……

Kaede: I thought so. Be careful not to drop them next time.

Okay, let’s go back to the inn!

Kiroku: …………

Kaede: ………

(Kiroku-kun… He’s been looking uncomfortable this whole time…

Almost like he wants to say something, but can’t.)

(Kiroku-kun is quieter than most people, but that doesn’t mean he’s not interested in his surroundings.)

(In fact, it feels like he’s more considerate about his surroundings than most people are. 

That’s whyーー)

(If only I could find a way to get him more comfortable…)

Oh right!

Kiroku-kun. Let’s use PeChat.

Kiroku: Eh……?

Kaede: If it’s hard for you to put something into words, maybe it’d be easier for you to put it down in writing. We can give it a try.

Kiroku: ……

Kiroku: ………

……My next message.

…… Is going to be…… a little longer……

Kaede: Got it. I’ll wait for you.

-

-

-

-

Kiroku: ………

(I’ll… open the walkie talkie app.)

Akuta: “Ahー Ahー Mic test! Testing, testing, one two three. 

Is Kiroku-san thereee? Go ahead.”

Kiroku: Ah……! He…llo…… Go …… ahead.

Akuta: “I’m glad we finally got in contact with you! Muneuji was really worried about you, y'know. He jumped up and ran out of the inn. Copy.

Kiroku: …… Co ……

Akuta: “So, so? How are things on your end? You still on planet Earth?”

Kiroku: I’m… I’m coming back…… Copy.

Previous — ✈︎ Masterlist — ✈︎ Next

Notes — ✈︎

“Those kids” referring to the finger puppets.

[likeburningcoal]

So I watched the first two episodes since they’re in English now. Live reaction:

LMK Season 5 spoilers under the cut:

Fun training session! Let’s go!

Tired MK is tired. Somebody get this boy the therapy he needs!

Wukong is trying to be responsible about the monkey form at least.

“I’m compartmentalizing!” XD me too MK, me too

MAC MAC MAC!!!! Also “Bud” not in a mocking way!!!!

“This mountain’s been by home just as long as yours” I’m screaming!!!

They’re working together! (Sorta)

Wukong confirming he didn’t know about MK!

Referencing Mac’s death and resurrection!

Ominous stone crack!!

Mei!! My girl!!!

THEY BUILT HIM A NEW HOUSE!!!!

Tang continuing the tradition of shirking the hard labor. Good to see he’s still himself.

THE PICTURES!!!

The origami!!

Even Mo gets a picture!!

HUG HUG HUG!!!

MK please chill, like even 2% calmer would be a major improvement. You need to rest and get therapy.

“Sleeping with the noodles”

Dadsy give him some comfort. Also send him to therapy. Or teach him cooking.

MK backstory! Noodles! Sleepy noodles!!!! That is so cute oh my god!!

MK is a heavy boi. Also sleepy.

“I love you, son” I am not emotionally prepared for the sheer amount of MK and Pigsy fluff in the last two minutes.

Mac sleeping with the little monkeys!!! At the tree!!!

Spooky goings on. References to Monkey King getting kidnapped to the underworld perhaps??

Stop blaming the monkeys for the things they’ve been trying to stop please. That’d be great. MK needs a nap. You could’ve waited for him to sleep.

Wukong throwing shade about the underworld situation. You tell ‘em!

Smug smile. Good monkey.

Mac canonically appears in the Monkey King Ace Attorney TV show? What?

Fillet?? Fillet??? Nezha?!? “Nezhie”?!??!?

Li Jing, hey, can’t say it’s a pleasure to meet you. Maybe take some parenting classes and then we’ll talk.

Mac trying to stop the fillet!!!

MK losing it a bit at that, love the concern for Wukong! They is a family!!!

Also Nezha trying to plea for them!

Underworld jail.

Grumpy Wukong and mopey Mac, I can just feel all the angst fics being written.

MK is trying so hard to free his mentor!

“It’s tense in here.” Gee I wonder why.

Secret plan with the fur? Secret plan with the fur? The nods?!

(I think I should interject here to point out, I rarely watch things without also doing something else to distract my hands, and yet my crochet has been forgotten because I’m having so many thoughts!)

Nezha providing exposition

Tang!Wukong, glasses is a must

Painted art style my beloved it’s good to see your return!

“My father is not the enemy” I mean he’s not exactly a pillar of goodness either my dude.

“I’m a clone”

Okay the running animation bit was actually pretty nice, love the movement. I like how they’re really trying to keep close to the original style of animation even though they’re working with a totally different tool set.

Mac, are you…are you Naruto running?

Wukong keeps doing the cutest smiles. I’m gonna have to go back through and grab some many screenshots.

Wukong and Mac just…knowing exactly how to fight together with no communication when they’re actually both on the same side.

Sandy got a new truck…

…And it’s gone, poor guy

MK worried that they’re just the harbingers of chaos when they have directly caused so few of the problems they’ve faced. Like, I get it, but maybe have some perspective. You know what would help with that? Therapy.

Just don’t explain anything. It’s fine. They’ll figure it out.

MK building powers!!

Fillet use!! Mac stepping in!! Mac sacrificing himself?!?!? Oh the angst fics will be legendary!!

“He always gets away, right?” Followed by sad face?!? OH THE ANGST FICS WILL BE LEGENDARY!!!

Monkey in pagoda. This feels familiar.

I’m sensing a later “boiling rock” style episode. Or else they all get trapped in there and have to bust out (Nezha helping them escape possibly?)

That was so good! I can’t wait for the actual proper release for better audio quality and more importantly MORE EPISODES!!

[shadowbriar]

Regulus Black - Supermassive Black Hole IV

Pairing : Regulus Black x (she/her) Selwyn!Reader Word Count : 4.2k Warning : Food. Height. Fluff. Synopsis : A simple arrangement turned into an everlasting one as two naïve children try to figure out their heart. Notes : I'm sorry it's taking forever for me to post this, I had a change of heart of how the plot should go and tbh I still dk how to end this story so bear with me please. If you'd like to be tagged for the next chapters, please comment or reblog so I can add you to the tag list. If you like this story and would like to support me, please visit my kofi page and perhaps get me a coffee?☕ Taglist: strikethrough means I could not tag you. @lostarc24 @hogwartshouse @milivanili99 @stelleduarte @40rimm @lilmaymayy @mischiefmanagers

↞ Part III

Regulus rolled over to the other side of the bed for the millionth time now. His eyes were staring at the clock by the bedside table, watching as its hands moved and ticks with every second passed. He knew that he had to get up, sooner or later, be it from the knock on his door or the unbearable hunger in his stomach. He barely ate last night. His head was spinning, heavy from the unpleasant memories and regret of his once again apathetic gesture towards her.

It must’ve been her worst birthday party. He spoiled it all the moment he walked in on her and Rosier. Perhaps he should have minded his own business. She has all the right to kiss Rosier if she wanted to, it’s the least bit of freedom he could give to her, but Regulus couldn’t help but feel a little bit triumphant when she seemed to be uninterested in him. That she too finds the idea of kissing Rosier to be baffling.

A loud groan escapes his lips when the next memory floods in. Regret beyond imagination is sticking to his skin like a muck. He wonders what would happen if he did what she asked him, if he would just lean in and kiss her. Would that be a great gift he could’ve given to her? Or would it’ve been a one way ticket to hell for him?

Reaching for his jumper, Regulus finally stood up and walked out of the room. He figures it would be worse to have her knocking on his door than to face her willingly. He could perhaps piece some words to meet her with a cool head than to have him caught red handed.

“Morning,” He greets her as he reaches the dining table.

She looks up to see him, her shoulders slightly tense and it makes Regulus bite his inner cheek a little harder, “Morning.”

Regulus kept his lips in a tight line. He took a seat opposite of her. His fingers locked to each other, an attempt to soothe himself as his brain tries to make some coherent explanation. It proves to be a harder task to do each day whenever she is in the equation.

“Listen, about last night—”

“You’re right,” She cuts in “I was drunk. I didn’t know what I was saying so if we could just.. Forget about what I said, I think that would be best for us all.”

Regulus opens his mouth, wanting to argue with her but finds himself nodding and turning silent, trying to ignore the loud cracking of his heart. Her words twisted a knife in his heart. Somehow he hoped that his words were lies, that she was sober and she really wanted him to kiss her. It wasn’t like he saw her drink anything, anyway. But who was he kidding? There would be no chance in this universe that she would want him to kiss her. No chance. None.

She flashes him a small smile before looking back down to her toasts.

Now what? Regulus thought. Where does it leave them at? He knew that he still owes her an explanation. About the Greengrass, about Rosier, about everything, but is right now the best time to bring it up? And what could he say about it? The truth? Would that do them better or worse?

“Do you have any plans for the day?” Regulus finds himself asking.

She pinched her brows, shaking her head, “I don’t think so, no.”

He hums in acknowledgement.

“Well actually, there’s this theme park I wanted to go to with Sirius.”

Regulus nods, finding himself to be more heartbroken, “Right.”

“But if you’d like to come—,”

“Yes.” He says, a little bit too excited for his liking.

“—I can cancel on Sirius.”

Regulus clears his throat, attempting to conceal his embarrassment as her brows rise. His excitement was surely out of character. Something the reserved, quiet, and collected Regulus never does. But then again, he could never be his usual apathetic self whenever it comes to her now, could he?

He wonders what her pinched brows and confused eyes mean. Was it really that appalling that he wanted to go to the theme park with her? Was it wrong of him to show excitement for her offer?

She blinks. Seemingly taken aback to his agreement but her smile slowly blooms. A sight that would be replayed in his head repeatedly before he sleeps tonight, “Alright.”

—-

She finds her teeth slightly chattering from the cold. The weather was playing with her. It was bright and hot when they first came out of the house, but now that the sun is slowly retreating, the wind blows stronger and colder. She was never good with coldness in the first place but she certainly didn’t think it would be this cold tonight. Her thin layer of flannel did not help to preserve warmth and she knew she was pretty much screwed for the rest of the night.

Her knuckles were turning white, body shuddering as she tried to gain some warmth. She could see Regulus glancing at her every once in a while but he never said a word. She knew that he could tell that she was freezing. Hands burrowed deep into the pocket of his coat, Regulus is warm and cosy under his thick layer of wool coat and it's surely shredding all of her dignity to say it but Regulus was right, she should’ve brought a coat.

“Quite the gentleman, you are.” She remarks between her chatter.

“One warm gentleman, indeed.” He says, snuggling into his coat as he sighs “The weather is so nice tonight.”

She glares, certainly not appreciating his sarcasm.

“I’ve told you to bring a coat,” He says as a matter of factly “I’m not going to give you mine, just because you’re cold now. Even if you’re freezing yourself to death and begging me for it.”

“Oh just how chivalrous of a man you are, Regulus.”

He shrugs, buttoning his coat and snuggling deeper to it.

“I am not cold and I most certainly will not ask for your coat.” She replies, her anger giving her the slight raise of temperature “Don’t worry your infuriating little mind about me, Reg.”

Regulus smiles jubilantly, nodding.

She turns to look away, finding herself conflicted once again with his charms. On one side she wanted to slap that enchanting little smirk off of his face but a bigger part of her wanted to take a picture of him and keep it in her pocket. 

Regulus has been smiling a lot today, so she noticed. He was beautiful. More beautiful than she remembered him. Perhaps it was due to the fact that she could stare on his face straight on instead of stealing glances like she used to or perhaps Regulus has just simply been enjoying their time, she couldn’t really tell. All she knew is that he looks beautiful this way and she hoped he would show this side more to her.

Now they’re standing in line, waiting for their turn to try on the rollercoaster. Regulus notes lazily that it wouldn’t be much worse than flying for quidditch. He’s played some of the most brutal games as a Slytherin quidditch player, but James said that rollercoasters are worse than flying and she told him exactly that. 

“You can hold my hand if it’s too scary for you.” Regulus said as they put on their seatbelt.

If he didn’t have that mocking smirk on his face she would have let herself blush and enjoy the butterflies in her stomach, but instead she rolled her eyes, “You wish.”

But boy, how right James is.

Regulus seemed to be having the time of his life through the loops of the track as she screamed her lungs and clung onto him for dear life. He was laughing, happy cheers escaping his lips. If she wasn’t fighting for her life she would’ve been hypnotised by the happy scream Regulus was shouting. Funny how the one time Regulus truly enjoys their shared moment is when she’s trying her best to not shat her pants.

When the cart stopped, Regulus turned to see how tightly she’s been holding his hand. He smiled at the sight but bit it down and turned the other way before she could see it. She was still panting from the adrenaline but a bright smile was evident on her face. She too seemed to be enjoying the ride.

“Shall we go for another round?”

“I’d love to, but I’m not a big fan of the queueing line.” She says, peeking out “It seems to be longer than before.”

“Well, that’s why we’ve got wands, isn’t it?” Regulus says as he takes out his wand from his coat pocket.

“Regulus, what are you doing?”

Before he could utter the spell, she hurriedly pushed his wand away, widening her eyes in disapproval as Regulus kept his nonchalant self, “What?”

“You can’t use magic in the presence of muggles.” She scolds “What on Earth were you thinking?”

“You said you didn’t want to queue. We could just do a little confundus charm and they wouldn’t know a thing.”

Her jaw dropped, completely horrified at his mischief.

“Just relax.”

“No,” She said before he could take out his wand again “You’re not going to use your magic here.”

He raised an eyebrow, “Why not?”

“Will you two get off? We have a long queue.”

Regulus' glare was certainly terrifying that it made the operator step back, looking intimidated. The boy didn’t look much older than them which made her feel even more sympathetic that she pulled Regulus' arm, dragging him out of the cart with angry steps.

He followed her, a small smile was still tugged on his lips as he watched her. She was evidently seething, for whatever reason he couldn’t understand. He only wanted to make her happy. She said she wanted to go for another round and didn’t want to queue, so what exactly is the issue with doing a little confundus charm? It’s not like anyone would know.

“Alright, ground rule for the rest of the night.” She says as they stopped, turning to face him “No magic. No matter how simple the spell is, or how insignificant it is in your eyes, no magic is allowed.”

“Why?”

She widens her eyes, appalled, “You know why!”

Regulus couldn’t contain his laughter now. Her reaction warms his heart. He finds it adorable how she’s so worked up over little mischief he’s sure no one would bat an eye for. It fascinates him how for once he’s finally the troublemaker instead of the voice of reason. Being in a trio with Rosier and Crouch, Regulus has always been the moral police instead of the third rascal.

“Fine,” He says, messing her hair “No magic for the rest of the night.”

She was stupefied then. His beautiful smile, the tender noise and his gentle gesture, it feels like the Regulus she’s always dreamed of is finally hers. Her cheeks were turning rosy, flustered by the enchanting side he’s showing at the moment.

“Don’t do that,” She says, slapping his hand away from her head “No messing my hair either.”

“You’re blushing.” He remarks with a satisfied smile.

“I most certainly am not.” She argues “It’s from the cold air.”

“Oh, so you admit you’re cold now?”

She glares, not saying a word.

“I’m still not giving you my coat.” He says.

“I did not say I was cold nor was I asking for it.” She spat with evident vexation “Has anyone ever told you just how much of a pain you are, Regulus?”

He shrugs, “Only on my good days.”

She rolled her eyes, taking steps away from him.

Regulus was toying with her, she knew it, and as much as she tries not to give the reaction he’s craving for, she couldn’t help but to give it. He was always right, always so perfect for her to ever be truly angry. The fact that he’s being so lovely tonight makes it impossible for her to hold a grudge longer than three seconds.

“So where to next?” He asked, matching his pace with her.

“We’ve ridden all of the rides,” She says, looking around the park “But one.”

The rogue on her cheeks turn darker as she stares at the Ferris wheel. The stories of her muggleborn friends about how romantic Ferris wheel rides are, echo in her head. She didn’t understand what was so special about the ride. They could certainly just get on their broom to go up and see the city lights but muggles seem to romanticise the ride a lot and she couldn’t help but to hope to feel such romantism with him.

“Alright, shall we go then?”

She turns to meet eyes with him, nodding.

Now they find themselves sitting in one of the cabins. She couldn’t find it in her to see his face because she knew she would be blushing hard once again. The excitement is building up, making her giddy and skittish. She could only hope that the tapping of her feet wasn’t that obvious for him to notice.

“You alright?”

She nods, not facing him, “Yes.”

“Okay.”

Regulus finds it odd how she’s suddenly looking away, not sparing a second to see him ever since they headed to this ride. Was she still angry about him taking out his wand? Was it about him messing her hair? Or was it about something else?

“It’s nice up here,” He comments, trying to break the ice.

She hums.

“Reckon we can see your house from up here?”

“Maybe.”

Regulus frowns. Her sudden coldness was something he didn’t expect to see. Everything was brilliant just a minute ago. He enjoyed their time, feeling as if it was a proper first date for them to have, and he thought that she felt it too. Now he wasn’t so sure.

His finger taps on the metal cart, biting his lower lip as he thinks of the moment things went downhill. She still had that smile when they began walking. It only disappeared when she pointed at this ride, a ride that doesn’t look half as interesting as the others. Compared to the rollercoaster, Regulus would argue that this ride is dull and dreary. Is that really the cause of her sudden change of demeanour? That she didn’t really want to go up this ride?

“Can I ask you something?” She asks, suddenly facing him.

Regulus nods.

“Do you have any muggleborn friends, Regulus?”

He frowns, shaking his head, “No, not really.”

“Right,” She nods, muttering to herself “That makes sense.”

“What makes sense?”

“Nothing,” She lies “I just remembered that I’ve only ever seen you with Rosier and Crouch.”

Regulus clenches his jaw. Is that it? Is that why she’s suddenly distant now? That she’s thinking of Rosier? 

And he thought she was having fun with him. Apparently not.

“Is there something you wanted to know about?” He asked, digging his grave deeper “Do you want to know about my friends?”

“If you want to talk about them, I’m listening.”

Regulus bites the inner of his cheek. It hurts to know that she wanted to know about his friends better, that she was even thinking about them, when they’re literally on a date. Well, she didn’t say it was one but it should certainly be called as. What else would you call this? This certainly goes beyond what a friendly hang out is.

At least in his dictionary.

“You gave a rule earlier, so can I give one too?”

She nods, her brows furrowing a little at his question.

“Can we not talk about anything else but ourselves for the rest of the night?” He asked “I know I owe you a lot but I really hope we could finish the night with just the two of us.”

Her expression changed. There was a hint of tenderness Regulus couldn’t really put a word on. As if she was touched over his words. Like she didn’t expect him to want to spend the rest of the night with just the two of them.

She smiles, nodding, “Alright.”

They turned silent once more. But the air is certainly different now. Tension and awkwardness no longer linger around them, only comfort and mutual understanding that they both wanted to bask in this moment while it lasts. It fills both of their hearts to know that they’re enjoying their time spent together. If only they would say it aloud, they would’ve amplified their happiness by tenfold.

But after a couple minutes of silence, as their cabin got to the peak, the wheel suddenly stopped. The sudden halt was making her panic, squealing in fear as Regulus put his arm protectively around her. The engine stopped.

“Looks like we’re stuck here,” Regulus said, looking down to see people trying to work the machine “Are you alright?”

“Yeah,” She said, still clinging on his arm “How long do you think we’ll be stuck here?”

Regulus shrugs, “How should I know? I’ve never been to these kinds of parks before.”

She frowns but remains quiet.

Regulus closed his eyes, feeling the light breeze of the wind as he relaxed his feet. It was refreshing up here. Quiet, calming, serene. It reminds him of his night flies around the castle whenever he needed to get some peace of mind and tranquillity. Perhaps he could go and find more of these rides some time.

One of the things he loved most about this moment is how she’s still holding his arm tightly. He smiles at the thought, how much more comfortable they are with each other over this date. Perhaps he should’ve done this years ago.

“This is nice.” He comments, still with his eyes closed.

Silence.

Regulus opened his eyes, turning to see her who has her head now resting on his shoulder, “Hey, you alright?”

“Do you think it’s still gonna be long until the engine comes back on?”

“I don’t know,” He says truthfully, pulling away to see her better “Are you okay? Should we just disapparate?”

“No,” She says fast, finally looking up to him “No magic, remember?”

“Well you don’t seem to be enjoying this ride.” He points out “Surely we can make an exception.”

“It’s not the ride that’s the problem,” She says, her teeth chattering a little “I’m cold.”

Regulus bites his smile. He wanted to rub it on her face, how he’s right from the beginning and she was just too stubborn to admit it, but the tormented look on her face made him think twice. She seemed to be really bothered by the coldness that to be fair, was nothing for Regulus, but still, he wouldn’t give his coat.

Instead, Regulus unbuttoned his coat and took off one side of it, gesturing to her to come closer.

“We both can’t fit inside, Regulus.” She notes.

“Well, I told you I’m not giving you my coat, so either we squeeze in or you freeze yourself to death.” He says with a nonchalant shrug “Your choice.”

She looks at him with disbelief. As if she couldn’t believe that the man sitting in front of him, acting cheeky and playful, was Regulus Black. Everything about him today just doesn’t make sense. From the moment he volunteered to come to the theme park, to asking her to snuggle close to him to share his coat now. Whatever happened to the apathetic Regulus Arcturus Black?

But she knew better than to complain about it. She enjoys every passing moment of the day. Every bicker, every annoyed remark, every feigned anger. She wouldn’t wish for any other way to spend the day.

And so she snuggled closer to him, encircling her arms around his body like a koala to a tree. His body warmth was comforting, along with the smell of his perfume. Regulus put the other part of his coat around her, trying to cover her as best as he could.

“Is this okay?” He asks. She could hear his heartbeat from the close proximity.

“Yeah,” She whispers, not looking up cause she knew her cheeks must be as red as tomatoes “Is this okay for you?”

Regulus hums, resting his chin to the top of her head.

“This is nice,” She says “I might actually fall asleep on you.”

He smiles, “Just don’t drool on my shirt.”

“No promises.”

—-

Regulus couldn’t recall the last time he woke up with such a light heart. The memory from last night still intoxicates him. How they spent hours waiting for the wheel to finally turn, to get them to the ground, yet neither of them were complaining. Matter of fact, he hoped that it would’ve lasted longer. He wouldn’t mind spending forever stuck in that cabin with her.

When he came down to the dinning hall though, a frown bloomed on his face. She was absent. Her plate was empty, cup cleaned as if she hadn't even used it. Only Sirius was present with a stack of toasts on his plate.

“Where is she?” Regulus asked.

“Resting,” His brother said “Where the hell did you go last night? Why did you come back so late?”

Regulus sniffled, taking a seat and fixing himself a cup of tea, “We just hung out, went to the park in the city.”

“Why did you come back so late then? There’s not much of a ride there.”

“We got stuck on the Ferris wheel for hours.”

Sirius raised an eyebrow, “Why didn’t you just disapparate?”

“She wouldn’t let us use magic. I don’t know, ask her.” He said, defensive “Why is she still resting? Isn’t it late already for her?”

“She’s sick, that’s why.”

“Sick? What do you mean she’s sick?” Regulu asked, feeling guilt to seep in “She was just fine last night.”

“She caught a cold. Fever and all,” Sirius said as he put a toast in his mouth, standing to leave for his room “Next time you go out with her, tell her to bring a coat, will you?”

Regulus rolled his eyes, “You think I didn’t tell her that?”

Regulus’ words were met by silence as Sirius entered his room. He begins to wonder if his banter of not giving her his coat was wrong, if their play stubborn was too far that it made her fall ill. It might just be one of those light colds, sure, but Regulus has never made anyone sick nor has he ever taken care of anyone unwell.

Should he even be taking care of her? Supposedly, yeah, seeing that he is her husband and the kind gesture she did the other week when she brought him his breakfast, but such action is strange for him. Where does he even start? How does he even do it?

—-

It was noon now and Regulus sprinted out of his room the moment he heard some noises in the kitchen. He saw Sirius left for whatever business he has so the only cause of such commotion would be her. He skipped down the stairs, feeling relieved to see her that is now enveloped under layers of blankets.

“You look awful,” He comments.

“Wow, thank you,” She retorts, sniffling “What a pleasant compliment, Regulus.”

Regulus bites down a smile, taking a seat opposite her, “Have you taken any meds?”

“Yeah, not much of a help so far, though.”

“Well, at least now you’ll remember to bring a coat whenever you go out.”

She glares at him, “You’re a prick, Regulus, do you know that?”

Regulus grins.

He watches as she fixes herself a cup of tea. One and a half teaspoon of sugar, no milk. He finds himself noting the small details of hers he didn’t know before. Like how she leans more on sweet kinds of breakfast instead of savoury ones, or how her brows are more often pinched than not whenever she’s thinking, or how the scent of rose from her was not from her perfume but her hand cream— her perfume was patchouli based.

“Do you not have any plans today?”

“No,” Regulus shakes his head “I prefer to stay in and read. I don’t normally go out.”

She hums in acknowledgement.

“Did you have plans for today?” He asked in return.

“Not really,”

Regulus nods, turning silent.

The only noise between them now was her sniffling. She taps on her cup, looking as if she has something she wanted to say but is still debating to utter it. Another thing Regulus takes note of— she fidgets quite a lot.

“Will you read for me?”

“No.” Regulus answers firmly.

“Oh come on, that’s the least you could do!” She whines “You got me sick!”

“You got sick because you’re too stubborn to listen to me.”

She huffs, “I wouldn’t be sick if you had given me your coat.”

“But then I’d get sick if I did.”

“Yes, but I’ll make you soup and read you a book, so you owe it to me.”

“You will not make me soup,” Regulus snorts, mocking “I doubt you even know how to turn on the cooker.”

Her mouth agape, offended, “That is beside the point, alright!”

“You don’t look sick enough for me to owe you a reading,” Regulus remarks, standing up from his seat “Feel better soon though. You look ghastly.”

“You—,” She said, throwing him a ball of tissue “And whose fault is that?!”

“Yours.”

“Regulus!”

Regulus chuckles, turning and heading back to his room. At least her anger is still intact. He could lose the bigger weight of guilt he’s feeling over her cold from the knowledge. Another thing to note, bring her coat for her the next time they go out.

↠ Part V

[domiforpresident]

Love to hate you, hate to love you ♡

|| Part 2

Paring: fem!blackreaderxRiriwillams

Summary: You and Riri have to work on an assessment together after school. Riri constantly tried to put up walls when around you, but you were willing to break them down. Though, Eventually she let them down for you.

Word count: 3.4k+

Warnings: slightly mean!riri, cursing, a little Riri angst (broke my heart to write fr)

This is briefly proof read so bare with me if there's any errors

Divider creds: @firefly-graphics

Dialog color coding: Riri, y/n, Maya, Riri’s Girlfriend

Tag list: @oceean @kya-rose @shahanaazsoumah @ririnator (if you wanna be tagged just lmk)

It had been a few weeks since you first encountered Riri. You couldn’t do your daily routine without thinking about her. You thought about her while in the shower and she even haunted you in your sleep. The only two places you thought you could escape the chokehold she had you in, she easily invaded. You barely even knew the girl but she was the only thing on your mind 24/7. Your notion to get back on Riri’s good side was still a priority of yours. You just didn’t know how to put it into motion. Riri had been skipping classes for the past few weeks. When you did see Riri The most interaction you had with her was when she would give you quick glance’s that came to an end as soon as she realized you were looking back. Today you hoped Riri would actually show up to class. You doubted she would though. Regardless, you got ready for the day like you usually do. You did your hair in twists, then did your edges. Next you put on a grey graphic sweater with light brown embroidered words on it, tan cargo pants, and your Jordan 1 dark mocha’s. You grabbed your tote bag and headed out the door, you would’ve eaten breakfast but you were too eager to see if Riri was going to show up to class today.

You were now walking down the halls headed to your class. You saw Riri’s girlfriend while turning a corner. This wasn’t anything new though you saw her quite often. But this time something was different, she looked worried, and she was coming your way. For god knows what you thought, maybe she had somehow found out you were plotting on her Girlfriend. Maybe she wanted to compliment your outfit, whatever it was you were anxiously anticipating what she was about to say to you.

“Hey y/n i was just wondering have you seen Riri” she muttered out fighting tears.

You thought to yourself how does she know my name if I’ve never spoken to her. In that moment though, the only thing you genuinely cared about was Riri’s well being.

“No, I haven't seen her yet, is she ok?” you asked.

“Yes she’s fine it’s just- never mind. If you do see her, let her know I just wanna talk to her.” Riri’s Girlfriend said while choking on her words a little as she walked away.

You remained standing there for a few seconds trying to brainstorm on what could’ve possibly happened as to where, Riri's Girlfriend would be fighting tears and asking where Riri was at. As well as why out of all people did she decide to ask you. At the end of the day It wasn’t your relationship issues, and even though she did tell you to let her know if you saw Riri you didn’t plan on doing so. You wanted a few moments with Riri to yourself. She would probably see Riri later on in the day anyway so you wouldn’t be hurting anyone by withholding that information you thought. you still needed to get to class so you headed down the halls once more.

Finally you had reached your destination, Now you were about to find out if Riri had skipped class again or if she was sitting in her designated seat right behind you. To your surprise there she was sitting down with air pods in. Riri had gotten her hair done in cornrows going straight back. She had on a black and white flannel, a white crop top that compressed to her body and revealed her abs, along with some baggy blue jeans that sat right on her waistline and a pair of black and white Jordan 4’s. You immediately perked up now knowing that she came to class today. You thought to yourself maybe today would be the day you could finally put your plan into motion.

You walked through the door with a big smile on your face and slid into your seat. The class was kind of chatty because your professor had stepped out for a second. You saw that as an opportunity to speak Riri and you took it.

“Hey Riri” you said with a small smile.

Riri ignored you. You thought it was because she couldn’t hear you over whatever she was listening to so you knocked on her desk. Lightly enough not to startle her but aggressive enough to get her attention.

"Huh?” Riri said as she took one of her air pods out her ear.

“Hey Riri” you said again with the same small smile in a sweet tone.

“What do you want that’s so important, that you had to interpret my music” Riri bluntly questioned.

“Well we do sit next to each other Riri, and you fr wanna go the whole year being rude to the person you’re sitting right behind??” you sighed out.

“So you didn’t have shit important to tell me. Made me cut off my music for nothing” Riri spat out at you.

“You should at least try to hold a normal conversation with me Riri, I’m gonna be here for the rest of the year. It wouldn’t hurt you to make a friend.” You said, trying your best to convince Riri to talk to you.

“and you should try to get off my-“

Before Riri could finish her sentence your professor walked in. She was still looking at you though. Instead of a look of irritation, She was looking into your eyes With that treacherous smirk on her face. At this point you couldn’t tell if Riri loved or hated you. She was so evil to you every time you and her talked and acted as if she hated you. But that smirk, her god awful Smirk said otherwise.

Your stomach was doing backflips and you felt yourself starting to blush. If you held eye contact with Riri any longer you knew you would say something to embarrass yourself so you turned around in your seat before you could. Riri let out a low chuckle. You were probably the only person who heard it. You thought her smirk was bad. But her laugh was worse, it made you feel like you were about to melt. It was so light and airy but so attractive at the same time.

“Ok guys we’re gonna be working on a project for the next few days, and you will be pairing up with your neighbors.”

Your professor then went on to further explain the assessment to the class. You were attentively listening, hoping to distract yourself from the way Riri made you feel. You knew that you liked Riri a lot, but nobody had ever made you flustered. It’s as if she knew ever button of yours to push. Riri got on your nerves, all while making you get butterflies in the same instance.

It was the end of class now and you needed to know where you and Riri were going to study. You turned around to face Riri again.

“So Riri…do you wanna study in my dorm or yours??” you asked her.

“My dorm. I don’t know what you got going on at yours.” Riri muttered the last part a little as if what she said had some underlying meaning.

“Well you’re gonna have to give me your number Riri, so i know what time to come over.” You explained.

“I don’t have to do anything. Maybe you should just read my mind and figure out when I’ll be ready to study ma.” She said mockingly as she threw that nick name at you again.

You found it corny coming from anyone else, but when Riri’s Chicago accent laced it, it sounded so smooth. However You were a soldier and you weren’t going to let Riri watch you fold that easily. Not yet.

“Riri I’m being serious” You picked up your phone. “put your number in my phone so i can text you when I’m on the way, and you can give me instructions to your dorm.” You spoke sternly trying to get your point across, and stand your ground.

“Hand me the phone y/n” Riri said as she rolled her eyes.

You handed her the phone and she put her number in it, then handed it back to you.

“Don’t try to come over after 10 though, My girlfriend is supposed to be coming over.” Riri said in a timid and exhausted tone.

You wanted to ask if she was ok, but you didn’t want to pry at her relationship problems, and risk the friendship with her that was slowly forming.

“Ok Riri that works for me, all i know is you better open the door when i get there.” You joked with Riri because you knew how rude she could be sometimes.

“I should keep yo ass locked out just for saying that” she joked back. In that low giggle that drove you insane.

“I’ll see you later Riri.” You laughed while walking out the door. Now walking in the hall’s, all you could picture was Riri’s low giggle, and how it danced off her tongue so smoothly.

You just made it back to your dorm. It was the end of the day now, all your classes were over. To your pleasant surprise, your best friend was there sitting on one of the beanbag chairs y’all had in the corner of your dorm. It’s been a while since you got a moment to talk to your bestie after she started spending the night over her boyfriend's apartment regularly. You needed a moment to catch up with her. So you dropped your tote bag on your bed and plopped down in the beanbag chair right next to her.

“Hey y/n, girl i was just about to text you and let you know i was here. I feel like we haven’t talked in forever.” Maya said while reminiscing on the conversation’s that you and her used to have.

“Maya so much has happened the past couple of weeks.” You began to explain. “You didn’t lie Riri’s lil butt is mean. I think that's one of the reasons why I like her.”

“You think you like Riri?? Need i remind you she has a gf." Maya tried warning you once again.

“I don’t think I know I like her. She’s literally all I think about, even if I wanted to stop thinking about her, I couldn't.” You tried to clarify.

“Well are you gonna shoot your shot or what? If you like her as much as you say you do, act on it girl.”your best friend tried to encourage you.

“Well it’s not that easy maya, I’m trying to build somewhat of a friendship with Riri. especially when thinking about the fact that the first time she spoke to me, she was yelling at me for scuffing her shoes.” You covered you face with your hand and blushed while saying the last part.

“You scuffed her shoes??” Maya couldn’t help but laugh.

“It wasn’t on purpose.” You blushed while laughing.

“Aww you really do like Riri huh??” Maya asked.

“I really do maya, and tonight I’m going to Riri’s dorm to work on an assessment with her.” You stated while smiling.

Your mind had now gone to the idea of being closer to Riri than what you usually were. You and her would possibly be inches apart, maybe even less than that. Riri was Making you nervous and she wasn’t even present.

Maya then got up from her bean bag chair. “Well good luck y/n I’ll talk to you later, and you better tell me how it goes with Riri.” Maya demanded in a playful manner.

Maya was now gone, probably at her boyfriends apartment. You were getting ready to go study at Riri’s dorm. You freshened up and took your hair out of the twist you put them in earlier today, and let your long thick 4-c hair fall to the middle of your back in a twist out. You now had on a white tank top, black sweatpants and your black converse. You texted Riri and let her know you were on the way to her dorm. When she texted you the directions, to your shock Riri lived right down the hall from you. So why hadn’t you seen her even if she wasn’t going to class? You had to save your thoughts for later though because now you were at Riri’s door. you knocked and she opened it.

“Hey Riri” you said while smiling. You were excited to see her and overjoyed that she opened the door the first time you knocked.

She had changed out of the clothes she had on in class and changed into a black wife beater, and black sweat shorts.

There was a moment of silence. She hit you with her extreme, and intoxicating eye contact again.

“So yo ass just gon stand outside all night, or you gon come in?” Riri grinned while giving you space to walk through the door.

You walked in her dorm. You would be lying to yourself if you said you thought Riri was going to properly invite you in. she welcomed you into her dorm without something extremely snarky to say. In your eyes that was progress.

“You can sit on the bed, I already started working, if you need help on anything I can explain it to you.” Riri told you.

For the first time Riri didn’t have something snarky to say to you. She genuinely wanted to get her work done. It’s not like she was in a rush though. When you sat down on her bed you saw she was practically done with the assessment. So why did she still invite you over, you thought to yourself.

Riri walked over to her bed and sat down right across from you, you and her notes were the only thing separating y’all. As you and Riri got to work you realized that you both work very well together, when she’s not trying to be rude to you.

An hour had passed, you and Riri were finishing your assessment, along the way you and her cracked a few joke's. As you and her were laughing a knock came from the outside of Riri’s door.

“Hold on y/n let me see who it is” Riri said as she looked at the door confused.

“Alright, don’t take too long though I’m starting to get sleepy, and we need to finish up.” You said as you smiled at Riri as she walked to the door.

You couldn’t help but be nosy and try to see who was knocking on Riri’s door at this time of night. It was a man. Specifically a white man. What the hell was a white man doing outside of Riri’s dorm room, especially at night!? You thought to yourself.

“I thought I told you not to come to my door anymore. If you want something done you gotta go to the website.” Riri said in an irritated voice.

Before the white boy could say anything else she slammed the door on his face. You couldn’t help yourself at this point you had to ask Riri what that was about.

“Who was that, your friend or something??” You asked.

“Nah just a customer” she put air quotations around the word customer, so now you were even more confused.

“Customer for what??” You asked once more.

“You came here to study, not be all up in my business” She argued.

“Oh come on Riri, we been playing and laughing this whole time. Now you wanna be rude again??” You rebutted.

You saw Riri break a little in that moment, she semi let down her walls for you.

“So basically…” Riri began. “I do people’s assignments and assessments, for a price of course. I make pretty good money off of it too.” She explained. “I figured, the work is mad easy for me so while I’m here i might as well get something out of it.” She added.

“No I get that, especially when thinking about the fact that you’re a black queer woman operating in a mainly white space, it wouldn’t hurt to have some extra money on the side.” you agreed.

“Exactly, these white people lucky to have me, not the other way around.” Riri proclaimed.

“Don’t say that too loud, they might hear you and come to get you, because god forbid a black woman have confidence in her intelligence.” You joked.

Riri was starting to blush. You were validating her experiences which no one had ever done for her before. It was definitely a sight you could, and planned to get used to.

“I’m glad you invited me over Riri, it was nice studying with you.” You said as you packed up your things.

“I guess it wasn’t unbearable to study with you either y/n.” She said with a subtle smile on her face.

Riri wasn’t smirking at you, she was actually smiling at you?? you managed to make Riri smile.

“Good night Riri” you smiled back while rolling your eyes and walking out her door.

You had made real progress with Riri today, you actually made her smile. Not only was she smiling but she was smiling at you. The sight melted your heart.

You were back at your dorm now, you Changed out of your sweatpants, and into some pajama shorts. As You were laying down in your bed drifting off to sleep, you got an unexpected text from Riri.

"Can I come over? I know it's late but I really need someone to talk to."

"Yeah of course Riri" you texted her back. If anyone else asked your immediate answer would've been no, but with Riri it was different.

You didn’t know what to expect when Riri got to your dorm. It was late as hell. What could Riri possibly want to talk about?

It had been 5 minutes since Riri texted you and you heard a knock at your door. When you opened it, to your shock Riri’s eyes were puffy and red. She had tears falling down her cheeks. You instinctively pulled Riri into a hug.

"Oh my God Riri what the hell happened." You asked in a concerned tone as you walked Riri over to your bed.

"Um- my…my girlfriend came over and we started arguing really bad, it got mad heated." Riri whispered as she barely got her words out.

"Riri calm down, take your time." You soothed her while rubbing her back.

"Whenever we're arguing she takes the lowest blows at me, and I don't know what I did or do to-"

You immediately cut Riri off.

"Riri, she's supposed to be your significant other, the person that's your peace. If she's going out of her way to make you feel bad about yourself then that's not your fault. Don't ever think it is." You said wholeheartedly.

All Riri could do was slightly smile at you. The real reason she chose to come to your dorm is because she knew that you would validate her feelings about the situation. With the short time shes known you she took note that you valued how she felt, and You genuinely cared about her.

"I really do appreciate that y/n." Riri said as she embraced you in a hug.

"It's the truth Riri, you should be with someone who respects you and doesn't make you feel this way." You told Riri.

"Y/n do you mind if I stay here for the night, I don't want to deal with her ass anymore for now." Riri asked.

You took Riris cheek into your hand and rubbed it gently.

"Of course you can my love" You lightly giggled as you answered.

Riri had eventually calmed down after talking for a little bit longer. When you and her laid down She nuzzled her head under your chin and sat it on your chest. You didn't position Riri to do it, she just did it. You could've sat there forever just soaking in the moment, you were on cloud 9. You couldn't understand why Riri decided to texted you and only you in her time of need but she did. She found security in you.

The next morning Riri was gone. She sent you a text before she left that read,

"I genuinely appreciate what you did for me last night y/n."

As you read it You were still high off the fact that Riri was nuzzled up under you. It was the next day but your heart was still racing a little. Riri made you feel a way no one else could. Whenever you thought about her you cheesed so hard your face started to hurt. Today's challenge was figuring out what last night Meant for you and Riri’s relationship. She had a girlfriend but it was extremely obvious that their relationship wasn't healthy. You also weren't too fond of the idea of being a rebound. You cared for Riri too much for your own good and You needed her like oxygen.

It broke my heart having to hurt Riri a little, but I hope yall enjoyed 😭💙, also this is gonna be a mini series so probably like 4 or 5 parts it really depends.

[kadextra]

I have thoughts about q!Bad taking the soul vulture outside earlier because that really surprised me

He was sitting, depressed on the church roof talking about missing his kids in full view with it leashed by his side. Just numbly monologuing and barely acknowledging it was there as it continually kept on attacking him. He made no moves to stop what was happening, then just put it back in the box.

First of all. why????????

Like I can see no world where this was a rational decision???? Dapper kept these creatures under extremely tight security underground for a reason, because if the Federation/Code found out what they were capable of it could spell the end for everyone. In their journal, Dapper wrote about a time when one did accidentally escape outside, and she panicked and ran all over the server trying to contain it… now we have Sadboyhalo here choosing to take one out in public, attached to himself. Any islander could’ve walked by at any moment and saw him, put two and two together that this is the thing that’s been hurting him, the Federation could’ve seen it. this might literally be something that Dapper may consider a leak/betrayal too?

Maybe, q!Bad took it out to feel closer to his son on their birthday in some kind of twisted way, because it was the last thing they shared together? But then he easily could’ve gone to the actual secret soul vulture lab, right next to the sign she left and not take it outside??????? was it simply more self destructive behavior in a particularly bad moment? then why have it so risky in the open? idk guys it doesn’t make sense….maybe it’s not supposed to.

We’ve had the thought that he’s been using the soul vultures to continue Dapper’s research on the soul hearts / soul potions. Yeah I do think that he might be, but do I think that’s all? No. It has gone way too far for it to be just that anymore. I’ve been wondering this for a long time but today kinda proves it for me, I’m 100% sure that the soul vultures are playing as a symbolism for q!Bad’s mental state at the same time as causing a physical plot effect on the character. it’s the self-destructive behavior, the drastic actions he is willing to take, his pov of being expendable

At first, they reflected his torn up grieving mind and he’d go down to the cage on purpose to hurt himself. The damage started to leave lasting impact on his body with the blue corruption that’s gotten worse and worse, along with his mental health. Then he released a vulture in the cage to torture Ron, showing how far he was willing to go in crossing the line. Now, post-psychotic breakdown he brings the vulture out in public, which directly precedes what? him suddenly opening his house to the public for everyone on the server to come celebrate Dapper’s birthday party, where they got front row seats to the delusions he’d only been doing in private. it was so weird from him because this man never invites people to his house like that.

What is he intending by doing all of this? is he intending anything? how much is all part of his big plans, and how much is driven by emotion or a lack of lucid decision-making? maybe this new behavior is because he thinks his delusions can no longer be contained in “safe places” like his home anymore (because are they even safe?) and so he’s not caring to show it. or maybe he wants people to pay more attention as a cry for help?

I really have no idea but everything is soooo obviously getting worse with him. and his friends might be seeing more of this from here on out

[cielie-voss]

Accidental encounter. ~ Eddie Munson x Reader

Summary: Eddie and you have a very accidental encounter at night.

Triggerwarnings: except for a bad suicidal joke none I think.

word count: 1.7k

Masterlist

If you want to be tagged in coming fanfics or if you want to request something, feel free to send me a dm or an ask. 🥰 Likes, comments and especially reblogs are always welcome. 🤗

Biggest thank you goes out to my lovely @violetmiroh for helping me with everything, encouraging me and dealing with my verbal diarrhea and absolute nonsense without complaining. 💕

It's a miracle he sees the body laying on the ground a few feet in front of him in time, so he has the chance to react and hit the brakes before something bad could happen. Outraged, he jumps out of his van and stomps in the little cone of light his remaining flashlight casts on the street, the one flashlight he didn't crash against the fence with.

“What the hell are you doing? I could’ve killed you!”

With a heavy sigh you try to cover the smile that creeps on your lips. What unspeakable joy spreads in your chest to be the one joking around, leaving him speechless.

“Yeah, but unfortunately you didn’t. So try again.”

He furrows his brows and cocks his head as he looks at you, a worried expression on his face.

“But you didn’t try to kill yourself, do you?”

"Tried to kill myself? On an empty road? Yeah, very effective.” You roll your eyes as you prop yourself up on your elbows. “I’m waiting for Merry and Pippin to pick me up so we can join the ents on overtaking Isengard.” With a deadpan expression you wait for his reaction, but Eddie is too stunned by your answer, he’s lost for words. He needs a moment to process what you just said before shaking his head and questioning confused “What?”

“I’m stargazing, dumbass.”, you confess a few moments later. “The stars are so wonderful tonight. Look,” you point up in the sky, eyes wide and mirroring the stars above your heads.

“see? Right there.” He follows your gaze and after a short while the sight of a bright shooting star enchants him. It’s the first one he’s seen in a long time. In years to be exact. How come he forgot the joy of just stargazing, watching the peaceful nightsky and clearing his mind?

A soft ‘wow’ escapes his lips as he turns back to you. Your gaze is still fixed on the sky but out of the corner of your eye you can clearly notice the smile on his face.

Satisfied you lay back down on the still warm pavement and cross your arms behind your head. “Awesome, right?”, you ask and take in a deep breath.

“Hell yeah.” Eddie is surprised by the warmth the ground still radiates hours after the sun already disapeared as he lays down next to you. More and more shooting stars light up the dark sky as you silently just lay there and watch the sky, count the endless stars, trying to identify the many starconstellations, making wishes each and everytime another comet crosses the sky above. Hours could’ve passed, days or even months, Eddie wouldn’t mind, as long as he can enjoy this little peace he found next to you. Next to you …

Like a lightning it struck him. He is actually lying next to you, not even a few inches seperates him from you. And all of a sudden Eddie feels his heart violently beating in his chest. What is it that makes him feel this way suddenly? That makes him feel so anxious? Is it the fact that he is all alone with you? You two have never been alone together. There was always someone else. Teachers or your little brother with his friends or other students. It's not like you are friends or something like this. You share a few classes, barely ever talked to each other outside the occasional group work. But he would be lying if he said he never tried to catch a glimpse of your cute face. He spent extra hours at the library instead of being home when he planned a new campaign. The way you always poke out the tip of your tongue when you're concentrating on your homework or when you frantically seek your pencil between your papers, the pencil you pushed through your braid moments earlier, never failed to make him smile like an idiot. But he's never been so close to you.

Maybe it's because he got to know another side of you? A soft and vulnerable side, not the quiet and reserved version you are at school? A side no one else in school can ever see?

A shiver runs down his spine as he secretly glances at you. His eyes catch a glimpse of you just for a split second, but the way your eyes are halfway shut and your soft lips form a pleased smile burns into his brain and he hopes he’ll always remember this picture.

Eddie can’t describe it, there are no words for this, but the way this moment makes him feel is better than anything he ever experienced. Grounded and satisfied, one with the world around him but at the same time soaring higher and higher on this happiness, as if nothing could go wrong or hurt him anymore.

But he knows he can’t lay next to you like this forever. Already knowing he has to leave this moment anytime stings like needles in his heart.

“Eddie?” Your voice breaks the silence you’re in and pulls him back out of his thoughts. Only now does he realize that he stares at you, his eyes glued to your face as if he was trying to memorize every freckle on your cheek, every lash that frames your beautiful y/e/c eyes, every curve your lips make wearing this kind smile.

“Oh, sorry, didn’t … I didn’t mean to … you know …“ What is this spell you cast on him to make him this … this … tongue tied?

“Stare like a creep?”, laughing you interrrupt his nervous rambling noticing how his cheeks begin to glow redder and redder the more he tries to talk himself out of this.

“Yeah, didn’t mean to stare like a creep, sorry.” He hufs to cover up the embarressment he feels creeping up. “I just - I never saw you from this close and I …” Again his ability to articualte vanished completely, leaving a big blank space in his brain. “Never noticed how beautiful you are.” The words tumble out of his mouth without permission of his brain. The second these words left his mouth he wants to punch himself. Well, now she thinks you’re a creep, Munson, he tells himself squeezing his eyes.

“I’m sorry, I don’t know what’s wrong with me, really. I think I should -” Before he could finish the sentence with the word leave, you grab his hand and squeeze it gently.

“Thanks.” Carefully he opens his eyes again and looks at you, finding you smiling at him. “By the way, I think you’re really handsome too.” Now it’s your turn to blush like a little kid.

Eddies lopsided smile only grows wider at the sight of the little dimples that now appear on your cheeks. Your smile is radiant, lighting up your face brighter than the sun could ever do and Eddie swears he has never seen a more beautiful thing on this goddamn earth.

“So you think I’m handsome?”, he begins to tease you with a smirk on his face. A whole heartedly laughter escapes your chest as you turn away from him.

“What's so funny ‘bout that?” His laugh is deep and vibrating as he joins your giggles, poking your upper arm in hopes you turn back to him, he already misses your eyes and your freckled nose.

“Nothing, Munson, nothing.”, you tried to assure him, but your giggles make your statement implausible.

“Yeah, sure.”, he sarcastically retort and sits up crosslegged, looking at you in a mock-pouty manner.

“Why can’t you simply take a compliment without making a joke out of it? Can’t you just accept the fact that I think you’re a handsome guy?” The giggling dies down in your throat, the smile remaining on your lips as you too sit up, hand behind your back for support. “Or do you really think I’m joking, because I’m not, y’know?” You cock your head as you look at him, scanning his face that’s framed by his wild curls, his dark chocolate brown eyes that reflect the stars. “I mean, I’m sure you may cross a mirror or two a day so you know how you look. And you must be an idiot to think you look - “ As you try to explain to this boy that he, in fact, is really handsome and that you’re not joking around with him, you suddenly feel his calloused hand pressed against your skin, cupping your cheek.

And before your perplexed mind has the chance to analyze the moment and prepare you for what's about to happen next, his lips already crashed on yours. Although all this happens so fast, faster than your mind could understand, the way his lips moved so smoothly with yours feels like slow motion.

You break the kiss and gasp for air. "What the actual fuck was that, Munson?" You have to admit, your question came out ruder than intended. With wide eyes you look at him, not knowing what exactly the kiss sparked inside of you, but you like it. You even like it more than you thought you would. And more than what was good for you.

"God, I'm so sorry really. I -" With shaking hands he combs the strands of hair away and rubs his hands over his face. "This is so embarrassing, I'm deeply sorry if I…"

"No." You stop him, your voice barely above a whisper. "No." More words than that just refuse to come out, your mind is completely blank, the only things that won't get out of it are his lips, his touch and the smell of cigarettes and cheap perfume.

To your surprise you had to find out that his hair is way softer and fluffier than it looks like as you bury your fingers in his mane, pulling him closer to you.

Your heart beats so fast and so loud, you ask yourself if he could hear it as you lean forward into another kiss.

_________

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[vclvetfleur]

Freak show Chapter 7

Buggy x fem!reader

Summary: Buggy has awoken to the betrayal and is determined to find you. You had quickly escaped the island in search of somewhere new before Vivienne requested a celebration back home.

WC: 3.5K

Notes; I had edited this chapter a bit, unsure of the exact sequences were going to play

Chapter 7: Hide and seek

Buggy’s crew had turned their heads to noises of things slamming and yelling. “Where the fuck is it? Where the fuck did that whore go!?” He screamed, throwing things across the room recklessly as he searched for the missing map. “That fucking bitch!” He stormed out of his quarters, face flushed hot red. “Listen up! The map was stolen last night! And judging that we had a few acquaintances just leave, we’re packing up and leaving!” Buggy announced. “But Captain- we set everything up…” One of the acrobats in Buggy’s crew chimed in. Buggy shot them a look, warning them to keep quiet before having to deal with consequences. “Get your shit. And pack up!” He slammed his hand against the pole holding their flag. The crew quickly fled and followed his orders.

Buggy ordered the rest of the crew that was responsible for navigation to sail in half an hour.  Once our ship was in view, they needed to prepare for war. Buggy felt foolish to ever let his guard down. To even trust you. This had to be your plan all along. Insecurities came through. Why would someone like you ever actually go out of their way to express some kind of attraction to him? What was he even thinking? If only he didn’t ask you to stay with him. This could’ve been prevented. But a mistake like that could not be brought up to the crew. He would look weak. Just a weak clown who fell for a whore’s tactics to rob him blind.

He locked himself in his training room, throwing knives and training his body for battle. He was determined.

-----------

You felt bad for tricking him. But it was for the best. You had no time to pick up a lover if you were gonna be Queen of the Pirates. You were too busy to even think about Buggy’s feelings. Plus, how badly could it of hurt? Maybe it bruised his ego. But definitely didn’t do much. Maybe it made him realize how idiotic he was.

Some part of you still felt some remorse. He was so careful of you after putting your body through all that. He let you bathe and held you all night. He made sure you felt safe in his arms. He was vulnerable. He fully revealed himself to you. It had to be an act. He had to have wanted you to put your guard down.

You laid on your hammock, your eyes watching the clouds dance through the sky. “You seem like you’re back to normal…” Vivienne interrupted your daydreaming. You turned your body to the side, shrugging. “Have I not been acting like myself?” You wondered. Maybe spending all your time with your crew was a bit strange to them.

“You never really cooked before. So yeah-pretty strange. Rumor has it Buggy snuck a knife into the cell and nearly killed you.” She revealed the details of this supposed ‘torture’.

“I just don’t wanna get into it…” You murmured. This was the best outcome. Slightly embarrassing, but it’d be more embarrassing if they knew the truth.

“We should celebrate.” Vivienne requested. Your lips curled into a frowned smile, suppressing the enjoyment of the idea. “Anywhere in particular?” You wondered. “Home.” Vivienne and you haven’t been back to your village since you left for sea. Parts of you missed it. It’d be nice to actually go back. You pondered on the idea before silently nodding. “Let the navigation team know…” You half whispered. Vivienne nodded, leaving you in your silence.

You sighed, going back to watching your clouds. It would be nice to lay low in your old village. Maybe give back to it to help the villagers. You and Vivienne often snuck away together to other villages on the island for weeks to months at a time to stay away from all the memories and overall status of the village, but once you both set sail it hurt to leave. You left your mom and dad’s grave. It’s been so long since you’ve talked to them. You used to spend hours talking to them. But that was years ago. You felt guilty for not having returned in a while.

‘I’ll see you guys soon…’ you hoped they could hear you. Wherever they were now.

The next couple of days were spent sailing before landing at the village. You shot up from your seat, watching the shore get closer and closer. “Vivienne! Vivienne!” You cried out for her. You rush to find her, shouting her name, giggling, and smiling as you do. “We’re here!” You tried to warn her. She left her quarters, running to the main deck to get a view of the shore. You followed suit and watched as the boat landed.

“Pirates!” You watched a young girl run and scream. You jumped off the boat, looking around. It was the same as you left it. “Hey! Little girl! It’s okay! We’re not here to hurt anyone.” Vivienne tried to calm her nerves. But it didn’t seem to calm her anymore. She had already gotten the attention of the villagers. The mayor stepped out, sword in hand ready for attack. “Girl…” He stopped, his eyes large, his mouth hung slightly open. “So, this is where you two ran off to this time…” He murmured. He had watched over you and Vivienne for a few months while you and Vivienne were in your pre-teens. No one else was willing to take you both in. Especially with your abilities. Vivienne was more welcomed by them than you ever were. They knew you’d just cause issues. But Vivienne never found it fair to have a place to call home when you didn’t. You both put the mayor through hell while under his care. The poor guy.

“I assumed you just went on your little adventures… or just left.” His voice hinted at disappointment. He essentially stared at you both like monsters.

“We’re here to repay the town…” You mumbled. “Gil! Get the bag!” You called out. You and Vivienne set up a bag of stolen loot that you both deemed appropriate to give to the village. It just fell a little short of 7 million berries. You weren’t willing to give up so much of your belongings away.

“We don’t need your stolen money.” A familiar face came out. She was slightly older, but you remembered her. Mina. It was a friend of your mother. She was one of the last remaining people who survived the raid that destroyed the village years ago. You fell silent. This was a terrible idea. “Even after everything… you really became a pirate? Knowing what they did…” Her disgust was clear through her words.

“I-I just thought… Look- I’m just here to speak to my parents.” You tried to walk past, being stopped by the older woman.

“Please… do what’s best and leave.” Her brown eyes softened as she stared into yours. Vivienne held your arm for support, hoping you wouldn’t later take this out on the crew. Your eyes welded up with tears, shaking your head.

“I’m not gonna leave. We’re staying here for a few days. My bounty is way too high to be back at sea. If you can live with sending your best friend's daughter out to die, go ahead. But we’re staying.” You pulled yourself together. The happy demeanor going back into the demeanor you always held. You drew your sword out, your eyes darting at the villagers. “Anyone wanna say anything?” You vaguely threatened.

“Just let them stay…” The same young girl from earlier spoke. “Please… I don’t want anything bad to happen.” The mayor huffed, giving in to your demands. “Fine. A week and you two are gone.” He walked away, unwilling to argue. You drew your sword back, shoving into Mina’s shoulder. “We were hoping for a celebration. You all have to work for your berries now.” You taunted.

Vivienne tried to chase after you, but you denied her any access to you. You went to the one place you longed to go for years.

You sat down at the infamous graveyard that was held as a memorial for that faithful day. You knew the route to them like it was written into your brain. You sat down, facing the two small graves. You wished you had enough time to buy them a new hedge stone. Something they deserved. You talked and talked, trying to catch them up about the past couple of years and your adventures. They wouldn’t be proud, but if it was something you truly desired, they always gave in. Every toy you eyed was yours. Every candy bar. Every dress. It was yours with just a look. You didn’t even shed a tear. You were just happy to be able to spend the time you did. But time was up. Now to play your role as a pirate.  

You went into town, searching for your crew. It wasn’t heard to find most of them. “We’re still celebrating. If they try anything, don’t do anything. Just call me.” You instructed. You went into a local restaurant and demanded for them to make you a feast. “There’s no time. We have customers to take care of.” The owner tried to stand up for himself.

“Oh? I’ll slaughter every one of them then… So, either tell them to leave or they’ll leave 'cause I made them.”

You struck immediate fear. This is what they submitted you to. You just played your role accordingly.

The rest of the nights that went by you and your crew went from restaurants to bars to shops and demanded whatever you desired. And the mayor could not speak a word of it.

You ate till your bellies were full and drank until you forgot what you all have stolen or done the next evening. Vivienne was the only one who stayed mostly sober. Not out of guilt. She believed they deserved it. But to speak to her lover from across the sea. She was careful not to give up the location this time though. Cabaji informed her about Buggy’s new reign of terror. He has been going from port to port in search of you. It was endless. He definitely took his frustration out rather quicker than ever. He had thrown a crew member overboard for telling Buggy to ease up. He has gone completely mad.

You had two more nights to spend in the town, spending a lot of it talking to your parents, mostly apologizing for your actions. You knew it wasn’t right. But you needed to survive somehow.

You retreated into town, hearing screaming. You rushed, expecting a crewmate to be harassing a villager. You specifically told them to always get you first. What was the moron doing? The closer you got, the more screams you heard. Not just one. But multiple. From men, women, children. Fuck… a raid. You vanished; your sword being drawn before spotting the familiar attire. He was here… How did he find you so fast?

You began your attack, tackling and fighting off members as they tried to find the source of the kicks and punches thrown. You knocked down one of Buggy’s first men. Your boot crushing his chest as you threw one more kick his way before being knocked to the ground. You tumbled, looking around before spotting the bright azul hair. “Stop fucking hiding coward!” He shouted into the air.

There. You appeared in front of him. “Get out Buggy. This place has nothing to offer you.” You warned. “Oh. But you do. Where’s my map your sneaky little rat!” his fists clenched as the veins in his muscles and neck appeared more clearly.

“I’ll give it to you if you leave. Now please. Leave. Your problem is with me. Not them.” You calmly tried to reason with him. You lied though. You’d never give it to him.

“Why the fuck do you care about them? Oh… this place is special, isn’t it?” he tilted his head. His smile appeared for the first time in weeks, purely out of amusement. He struck a nerve. Something that meant something to you. “What’s so special about this place? Hmm? Care to speak up beautiful?”

“Buggy- don’t fucking start. You don’t want to start this.” Your hands out like a dog trainer dealing with a vicious rabid dog.

“You started it first!” His voice boomed through the town. Your shoulder automatically raised, to shield you. His hand flew your way before sending you fly once it hit impact onto your body. Your back fell as you slid against the dirt.

The mayor watched in terror. “This is exactly why we told you to leave!” He hollered. “You’re gonna get yourself killed! Don’t be stupid!” He finally showed some care for you. He tried to bury it, but it’s hard after witnessing someone you watched grow up being beaten in front of you.

“Mayor Tenile, Go inside. Get everyone out of here. Now.” You warned.

“Oh- you’re on a first-name basis? Do you know each other?” Buggy put the pieces together. He watched your face, reading into your slight body movements. Your body tensed up, taking in more breath to calm your nerves “This is your home, isn’t it?” Buggy laughed manically. “Oh no! What a shame! I never realized what a dump you were from. Wow- I’m doing you a real favor, place is hideous. Not even a lick of color at all. No wonder you have the dark and gloomy look going on.” His laugh grew louder.

“Just stop… please.” You tried to plea once more. You thought of something idiotic, but it might work. It worked on most people after all. You sat on your knees, pressing your chest up slightly. Your hands coming together, arms right under your breast. Your eyes give the puppy dog look to them. “Buggy- I’ll give you anything. Just stay away from here.”

Buggy stared you down, his eyes scanning you. “You’re not that sneaky.” His knife flying your way. You vanished, moving quickly out of the direction. You got up quickly before making a run towards him. Your sword going through his torso. You needed to find a way to get him away. The question of how would trip you up. You thought of something. You rushed to the ship as fast as you could. “Hey! Don’t back out of a fight now!” Buggy called out as he attempted to follow the footsteps. You dug through your belongings before finding the map. You had such little time before Buggy destroyed the whole village.

You left the cabin, watching as Buggy’s body stood at the port, waiting for you. “Really? You’re playing hide and seek now?” Buggy accused you. “No- I have something you want. So- either leave or it’s being thrown into the ocean.” You marched up to the railing of your ship. You held your arm out, map hovering over the ocean. “Now leave.” You slowly let two fingers go of it as it was secured only against your thumb and finger and pointer finger. Buggy had no time for this game. His hand flew over, attempting to yank the map away from you. Your grip was on tightly. A yank of the map pulled most of your body towards the right. Your body attempted to keep its balance over the railing, but ultimately failing. Your feet slipped off as your body fell mid-air.  Your grip of the map immediately lets go. Your hands attempted to hold onto something to keep you from falling into the water, but everything was just out of reach. Buggy’s fist grabbed the map retrieving it from you. He was confident you wouldn’t actually hit the water. This had to be a trick. He just waited for the reveal.

Your body smacked against the water, your clothes immediately weighing you down. Your arms attempted to push you up, but there was no use. You sunk lower and lower, unable to get a single breath in while you were under. Your vision grew hazier by the second. Your head felt woozy. It wasn’t long before your vision went completely blind.

Buggy waited, but nothing. This wasn’t a trick… His immediate panic set in. But he couldn’t come grab you. He’d die trying.

Your body laid there, unconscious. Your dress sunken to the floor with you as your hair seemed to flow against the currents. You had finally been defeated by Buggy.

Buggy panicked trying to find a way to get you out. There had to be someone who could help. He heard a rustling in the bushes, turning his head to find an older woman with long black hair, knife in hand. She had been spotted. She charged out with the knife, swinging it at him. Buggy didn’t move for a second. “What are you?” She cried as she kept trying to make an impact. Buggy was losing time. He grabbed her wrists, staring down at her. “Stop! I will leave if you do one thing. Just-“ He made the deal. “I will call my crew off immediately.” “Why would I believe you?” She attempted to pull her hands away. “Cause you can do something for me,” Buggy spoke quickly, knowing you barely had a minute left. She broke down her boundaries and opted to listen to what he had to say. Buggy quickly explained, stumbling over his words, but Mina took no time to try to save you. Despite her grievances, she couldn’t live with the fact she could actually save you. She snagged her shoes off before diving into the water.

Mina dove into the water, scanning the water to find you, sinking herself deeper and deeper before finding you. You laid there. Finally at peace. You looked softer weirdly. You didn’t have the same angry look you had all the time. Your eyebrows softened and your body was less tense. She grabbed your arm quickly before swimming to the surface. She swam above the sea, holding onto the deck as she attempted to pull you up. Buggy rushed to help, grabbing your arms out of the water and pulling you up.

Mina left the water after, standing above you. She shook her head before getting onto her knees. She pressed her hands against your chest, stopping to hear for a heartbeat or breathing.  

“You idiot. This would’ve never happened if you only kept a simple life…” She whispered.

Buggy kneeled down, shoving Mina out of the way. None of this was working. He turned you to the side, hoping you wouldn’t die from choking on water you’d eventually throw up.

You regained your eyesight. Everything was brighter yet still fuzzy. You turned around, kneeling on your hands and knees, water spilling out from your lungs and stomach. Mina rubbed your back and removed your hair away. She shushed you, trying to comfort you as you coughed out mostly everything before fully coming to. You looked to your left to see Buggy sitting there. Blood-boiling rage took over. You stood up quickly, kicking Buggy farther onto the floor. “Get out of here!” You drew your sword, pressing the blade onto Buggy’s neck.

“He was just on his way…” Mina tried to intervene.

“If I could- I would kill you right now… You don’t deserve it though. Next time you see me in your path, leave. I can never forgive you… Your ego has gone too far. First, you destroy my village and attempt to kill me? I don’t even want the map anymore. Keep it. It’s as worthless to me as you are right now. You’re nothing, but a circus freak. Now get your men. And leave.” Your words getting caught in your throat. Your jaw tightened as you unknowingly grinded your teeth. Your vision grew blurry once more as tears filled the brim of your eyes. You were foolish. You’ve betrayed Buggy countless times. But this had gone too far. It stung more knowing the new history you’ve created together. The way you both let each other see such vulnerabilities. But that’s all it was. History. “It’s just business. Don’t forget it.” Buggy shoved your sword away before going back into town. He quickly recruited his men before making a departure. You couldn’t look at him. But you knew he couldn’t stop looking at you. He wanted to plead to you. But there was no use. Everything he thought of saying would do nothing.

He had to be okay with the story you convinced yourself happened.

It wasn’t long before you collected your crew as well. You couldn’t be here any longer.

You recollected the money you promised the town in the first place. You went into the Mayor’s office, waiting for him at his desk before dropping the money you promised.

“Uh- here… I’m sorry about the mess I brought. Take it to rebuild everything.” You couldn’t bring yourself to look him in the eye. You felt such guilt for causing another tragedy on the village.

“You know I can’t accept it.” His gaze softened, standing up to protest the money.

“Please- I’ve caused enough issues. Just let me do something nice…” You begged.

“Don’t say that. You defended yourself. That’s all… You’re not a bad kid…” Your lip quivered, wiping your eyes before tears could start.

All the years of the villagers never taking you in because of the fear they had of you. You were too bad to be let in their homes. To play with their kids. To be in their store. You were just a kid.

“You’ve done good. Don’t ever forget it… Now please.” You cut him off. “No- take it. And uh- here. I want my parents to get a nice gravestone. If you can work that out for me…” You handed over an expensive watch you knew could be sold for 435,000 berries. “I’ll get out of your hair now. Thank you.” “Visit again soon.” He requested before you headed out the door.

“I probably won’t.” You confessed before stepping out of the building. You made your way back onboard, setting sail for somewhere new.

notes: I'm so sleep deprived

[sapphire-weapon]

More things I didn’t discover until my 10th playthrough:

When Ashley wakes up at the beginning of chapter 14

you know like

when Leon is sitting on the floor at her bedside, and he’s winded and his vision is blurring and he’s actively planning his suicide and probably wondering at what point he should actually pull the trigger so that he does it before he turns, and he’s very likely just hoping and praying that Ada will actually come through for him post-mortem and get Ashley home in his stead

yeah so like when she wakes up during that

and Leon’s name is the first thing out of her mouth? She doesn’t just say his name. She also puts a hand on his shoulder

and that’s when he perks up and gets up and his symptoms suddenly all vanish and I want to fuckgin throw up now that I’ve noticed it.

I’ve talked before about how Ashley is Leon’s anchor to reality, but that is actually literally true in this instance. When Leon sat down and flipped his gun around and pulled the slide back, he was checking to make sure that a round was chambered. Then he takes a deep, steadying breath.

This happens just after his suppressant wore off, and there was no way for him to know when Ashley was going to wake up. It could’ve been hours. And by then, it would’ve been too late for him.

He was checking for a round in the chamber so that he could use it on himself if it came down to it.

Canonically, this isn’t the first time he's considered suicide. In RE6, he admits that he considered it (”a few times, actually”) while still in Raccoon City, and also just after escaping. So, when he’s sitting there at Ashley’s bedside, he isn’t considering suicide with a “I hope it doesn’t come to this” mentality -- it’s more of a “It was probably always going to end like this anyway” one.

And I can say that with confidence because it’s the closest he ever gets to actually turning (prior to his hallucinations at the very end of chapter 15) -- and it seems to be entirely self-inflicted. On some level, mentally, he’s already given up.

But then it’s her touch and her voice that clears his vision, steadies his breathing, chases away the pain and weakness that caused him to sit in the first place, and even brings a smile to his face. Suddenly, he’s fine. And he doesn’t have another fit like that again, outside of Saddler deliberately causing one.

And I just

I think about that in tandem with how bad his mental health gets later in the series -- how dark his depression gets in some canon installments, how profoundly his trauma manifests, and how he tries to self-medicate with liquor until it turns into a problem that just gets worse and worse and worse as the years go by.

And I just have to wonder if he’d have ever gotten that bad if he hadn’t walked away from Ashley at some nebulous point after RE4.

[lady06reaper]

A Lil Too Quiet

Just something I whipped up while on a South Park craze

Mostly based off of South Park The Fractured But Whole

GN used

word count: 1372

TW: cussing, chaos, suggestiveness towards the very end

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“I just… How?” 

“What the fuck?”

“ACK- My brain hurts trying to understand how this happened.”

“Don’t ask, I don’t even know myself,” I said as I was tied upside down with Mysterion who was in the same rope bundle as I am.

“Fucking cut us down!” The edgelord yelled.

~AT THE FREEDOM PALS HQ~

Human Kite, Tool Shed, Wonder Tweek, Mysterion, and I walked down the stairs to HQ. I sat down on my chair that I claimed with my many stab wounds etched into the fabric. Mysterion leaned against said chair, and everyone surrounded us with confused looks waiting for an answer. Prof. Timothy came through the crowd looking at Mysterion and I.

“The internet was so quiet while you two were out on patrol, a little too quiet for what happens when you two are on patrol. That’s why I sent Human Kite, Tool Shed, and Wonder Tweek out to find you two to see what was going on. Care to explain?” Prof. Timothy could’ve just easily read our minds but no, he wants us to say what happened like two little kids with a broken vase and a ball at our feet.

“Ask them, they were the one with the ‘most brilliant idea ever known to man’,” Mysterion gave me a side eye.

“It would’ve been if someone didn’t distract me!” I threw the shade right back at Mysterion. “I have been working on my ulti-bomb for months! Perfecting it down to the T and you just had to ask what I was doing!” I threw my arms up in the air in frustration. 

“What the hell is a ulti-bomb?” Human Kite questioned with a confused look on his face. Everyone shared the same look, he just had the gusto to actually ask.

“You remember all the drugs and alcohol that Conner put that cheesing shit in? Well I looked all over town for some and finally found it, combining it with my gunpowder, made with half lead and half homemade drugs, and a trash can with 8-inch mortars (A/N a mortar is a really big firework that they use for big firework shows and are generally illegal) welded around it, I created the ulti-bomb.”

Everyone looked at me like I just killed their dog, concerned looks and shocked expressions were shot my way.

“So what were you going to do with your creation?” Timothy questioned rather cautiously. 

“Let me start at the beginning.”

~A FEW HOURS BEFORE~

I had just escaped out my bedroom window onto the bush down below, making sure all the branches and leaves were off of me. I headed to Jimbo’s guns to get my lighter which was really a flame thrower rigged with diesel and kerosene instead of gasoline. Having that equipped I headed to where I had the ulti-bomb stored, and that's when I got caught.

“What the hell are you doing?” A raspy voice from up above asked. I looked up only to see Mysterion giving me an angry look.

“What does it look like I’m doing? I’m going to light my ulti-bomb and go on a joy-ride around town ultimately landing in Starks pond. I have it all planned out, Edgelord, so you can just toodle off and go do your emo shit,” I waved him off and grabbed the rope/fuse to drag the ulti-bomb to the fire site I had cleared out.

“I am not letting you blow up the town with your homemade borderline terrorist bomb!” Mysterion jumped in front of me blocking my path.

“I’m not going to blow up the town, I have the science down to where it’ll be more like a bottle rocket going up, then when I’m above the pond it’ll blow up in all pretty colors, like Aurora Borealis, and then it’ll go into the water so it doesn’t relight and then blow up the whole town,” I said matter of factly.

“And what’s that on your back?”

“A flamethrower to light the ulti-bomb, you can’t use a normal lighter or it won’t work.”

“Why wouldn’t it?” Mysterion cocked his head to the side.

“It wouldn’t follow the path I had formulated it to, it just might blow the town up,” I thought about this town going up in flames, how many drug dens would be busted. But if that did happen I would be screwed. 

A local walked by holding a cigarette, he mumbled something along the lines of ‘fucking weird ass teens these days’. He dropped the still lighted cigarette bud right by some of the excess rope that laid on the ground. I heard a hiss and looked behind me to see the fuse lit and making its way towards the ulti-bomb.

“Oh fuck,” I said calmly. Before the bomb had time to go on its uncoordinated path, I grabbed Mysterion and jolted towards the bomb. Using what rope didn’t get lighted I tied us to the bomb and told Mysterion to hold on tight.

The ulti-bomb shot off the ground straight up, we both screamed our heads off. I could hear the cheesed drugs and alcohol inside the trash can combining with each other, I took my knife from its sheath and cut the rope that tied us to the ulti-bomb. We fell, plummeting towards the ground, before that happened I used the homemade flamethrower to push us away from the ground up towards a nearby building. The rope that tied us together caught on a flagpole, we got jerked by the rope before we hit a dumpster.

“No no no!” I shouted before looking up. The ulti-bomb blew up, and instead of the Aurora Borealis it was a bunch of middle fingers, dicks, vaginas, and boobs in the sky. “God damn it! The fucking tobacco messed it all up! Or maybe it was the nicotine? I’ll have to start from scratch and experiment more.”

“You vandalized the sky, we’re tied upside down, and you’re worried about making another one!? What the fuck is wrong with you!” Mysterion screamed in my ear, I moved my head as far away as I could to prevent ear damage.

“No need to yell when I’m right here!” I screamed right back.

~MEANWHILE ON THE OTHER SIDE OF TOWN ON SOME RANDOM ROOF~

“Where are they?” Human Kite asked out loud while landing by Tool Shed and Wonder Tweek.

“Who knows? Maybe they’re making out somewhere,” Tool Shed said.

“Or-or maybe, ACK-, they’re dead in an alley somewhere! Oh jeez!” Wonder Tweek freaked out at the thought of his two Freedom Pals dead somewhere.

Before anyone could say anything else, they heard a big *FWOOSH*. They looked up to see the metallic of the trash can glittering in the moonlight with two people falling down from it. The big boom drew their attention away, when they looked up, all they saw was middle fingers, dicks, vaginas, and boobs lighting up the sky.

“Found one,” Tool Shed remarked.

“And when there’s one, the other is bound to follow,” Human Kite finished.

~BACK TO PRESENT TIME~

Everyone was astonished at my story, wide eyes and opened mouths filled my vision when I looked at my fellow Freedom Pals.

“So basically you were trying to create an artificial Northern Lights? Aw, that's really sweet,” Professor Chaos said with a soft tone.

“Yes, I must agree with Chaos, that was really nice of you (super hero name),” Professor Timothy agreed.

“It would’ve been but no, someone just had to let that rando flick his cigarette bud towards the fuse,” I got up from my chair and looked Mysterion dead in the eyes.

“How was I to know that that would’ve happened?” Mysterion looked at me as well.

“I didn’t even know that that was going to happen. Well, back to the drawing board,” I started towards my lab, but was stopped when my hood was grabbed.

“Oh no you don’t, you’re coming with me,” Kenny dragged me by my hood towards the stairs, up to who knows where to most likely do things.

(A/N you can decide what the things are ;). Lemme know if y’all want a pt 2/continuation of this. Thanks for reading! Don’t do stupid shit with proper safety!)

[thelediz]

Sonic Underground episode 40: Virtual Danger

AKA: THE FINAL EPISODE

I’m watching Sonic Underground in search of inspiration to finish a fic I’ve been writing forever. It’s a sad state of affairs. See the recap of the first three episodes here, if you're interested!

The Plot (for want of a better word): Sonic and Manic have been training their piloting skills with a virtual reality game, but it turns out their online friend is Robotnik in disguise! Can they escape the trap he’s set for them, or will they be trapped in cyberspace forever?

An interesting factoid, before we begin. The creators of Batman Beyond and The Justice League mentioned that they learned a lot from doing Batman Beyond, and one of the important things was that it doesn’t matter what your series is doing or how well it’s going (or not), the season finale should ALWAYS feel important. It should wrap up a storyline, it should set a full stop on a sentence. That way, no matter what happens, your fans will be satisfied with it.

As we all know, this series was not intended to be viewed in any particular order, so you can't expect this episode to wrap anything up properly.

However! This episode does KIND of wrap up a storyline that’s been running throughout the series, about the Resistance skimming supplies. It shows up in most Cyrus episodes. You probably wouldn’t have noticed it, but hey! Credit where due!

We open on the boys playing a VR game. They are just about to defeat their 'online friend' when Sonia walks in and pulls the plug on their game console. They’re late to a meeting.

CYRUS.

If you remember episode 12, you will remember the zombie robot, which allows a pilot to take remote control of a machine. It’s back. Yay. The boys apparently want to prove their skills have improved, because they’ve been playing video games. And they do pass the test, so it turns out video games ARE good for you, any parents who may be watching and still doubting whether their kids should be allowed to buy a Sega Saturn/Dreamcast in a couple of years.

Robotnik is going to be doing an audit on his supply ships, which means he’s definitely going to notice that the Resistance have been taking them. So they’re onto plan B: steal ALL the supply ships before Robotnik can change strategy.

There are three left to take over, and Cyrus assigns Sonic the last one. Sonia objects, because the last one is the riskiest, and she’s the best pilot. The way it’s framed, this isn’t arrogance so much as her being worried about Sonic. Combined with looks she was giving him a few episodes ago, it makes me wonder if they wanted a mini storyline of Sonia worrying about Sonic taking too much of the risks… could’ve been a good one!

Sonic does indeed get caught, but turns it into a kamikaze flight, turning his ship back on Robotnik’s palace for a crash. He barely misses Robotnik himself by like a half-metre. But the point is, all the supply ships are now out of Robotnik’s reach and he has to re-orient his factories to rebuild. Successful mission all round, and the triplets are given a few days off.

Manic dozes off to have a dream about playing more video games, but this time, Sonia has decided to play too. And of course she is immediately better at it than them. Whether this is just how the show functions or a sign of Manic's low self esteem, we will never know.

The Song: Don’t let your guard down. A very strange 80s/early 90s pop song, running a bit light on lyrics – mostly just “Don’t let your guard down. Keep your shield up, you gotta be ready”. Which, again, propaganda sure, but… not much for a good song, guys. Perhaps this is just proof of why Manic isn't the band's lyricist.

In the ACTUAL game, their 'online friend' offers them a mod, and promises a better one later. Because cyber security is not yet a common thing, the boys do not think twice about downloading and installing both files, no questions asked.

But once they’re in the new mod, their online friend is revealed to be Robotnik, and this has all been a trap! Now the… Okay, I’m not entirely sure how this happens, but they get zapped into the game. And apparently, if you die in the game, you die in real life. And… Look. Shadow the Hedgehog did this too, so I have to accept it as a thing that can happen in the sonic universe, but I will never not think it’s a little silly.

The point is: the boys are trapped and Sonia sees it happen.

Sonia calls Cyrus, who creates a program to allow Sonia into the game virtually, and pull Robotnik in physically. Don’t question it. While Sonia’s trying to rescue her brothers, Cyrus is going to try to hack Robotnik’s satellite to disrupt his connection, which will apparently win the game for the hedgehogs. Seriously, don’t question. Just accept.

Surprisingly, Sonia’s amazing piloting skills do not actually save the day. Cyrus cutting off the satellite dish does. I am legitimately surprised.

The episode ends with the triplets sending the now unloaded cargo ships back to Robotnik’s palace, further damaging it. Sonic declares it “Game over, Buttnik!”

And that’s it. That’s the end of Sonic Underground.

Sure was an episode, huh?

Look, it was incredibly underwhelming and very much Just An Episode, but on a meta level, it was actually a pretty good culmination of the series. There was the weirdly fluid animation that was absolutely not quality checked. There was the random disjointed plot that barely hung together. There was the odd character relationships and motivations that were generally fine but also kind of illfitting. There was the conflict and resolution in the final five minutes of the episode.

There was no Sleet or Dingo, and the song was barely an attempt, but OTHERWISE.

This was Sonic Underground, for all its faults and wonders.

Come back tomorrow for final thoughts, if you’re interested!

[zzencat]

hello !! i’m here for the free readings if they’re still open, initials are ff, aries sun, and i’d say 🧶 for an emoji

apologies if this is too niche but I identify as otherkin (I believe I was certain species/characters before this life) and I was wondering what my past life(s) were like ? I think I have a vague idea but it feels cloudy whenever I try and think about it

I also wanted to ask if there’s any direction I should take in my witchcraft, or in life currently ^^ I’m a beginner and could always use some guidance

tysm in advance !! have a lovely day/night

hello FF aries basketball emoji!! i love past life stuff and this is really interesting, so lemme know what you think:

- in ONE of your past lives, you could’ve been some kind of being that was a slave or felt like being one. you “could” escape if you wanted to, but there’s a period where you don’t yet. weirdly, when i was shuffling i pictured a native american or natives on land (that would eventually belong to the colonizers). you were good at your assigned job though and maybe you decided to stick around bc the rewards paid off. you didn’t HATE it, but you thought it could definitely be better. maybe you even saw the colonizers having fun, observing their clothes and how in high spirits they would be when they partied or had celebrations at night, and wondered “what’s really out there?” i also thought about tinkerbell for some reason. if you haven’t seen tinkerbell movies or at least this specific one- i think it’s the opening part (can’t be too sure tho) but she’s born and everyone kinda stands around in a circle. she gets a bunch of choices- what kind of fairy she’s going to be and work as—her “talent” essentially - and so there’s shit like working with water, working with animals, with air, making pixie dust, etc. there’s one that she skipped over bc it didn’t look interesting, and it was a hammer to represent “tinkering,” aka building/crafting a bunch of things. when she finishes choosing, the hammer ended up choosing her—not the other talents—and so she was like “ah damn i didn’t want this one tho…😔 *some grimacing here n there*”. throughout the movie, she’s in denial the whole time that she’s good at it, just bc the job is too limiting to her (ex: not being able to go to the “main land” i think was the name, where people/humans are) and she wants to go out there and be able to explore. as the movie progresses- i actually don’t know if it’s that one or the next one, but she rebels and builds a bunch of shit, brews up a plan to escape and somehow join the fairies that CAN go to the main land during a certain season.

so i felt the need to write that down for you bc your cards show a very similar theme happening: being extremely skilled in what you do, but you don’t feel that great in your environment, so there’s a calling- a need to leave and explore what’s out there. eventually you do! the cards actually end there with the world card in upright- you feel fulfilled, free, you’re going out to explore the world, or an insanely big chapter of your life has concluded- either way, the cycle is complete. so in my personal interpretation, you probably waited for the right moment, before you jumped ship—or jumped ON a ship—to get tf out of your situation/environment. i just had pocahontas show up, so feathers or wings could be something as well. if not, you probably worked in a colony and very closely to animals or things that could fly/use air travel.

ok some advice would you to reflect on what it means to be intuitive. question it and sit with it, look within and verbally define it out loud to yourself. what does it mean to be intuitive? then being open to receiving love and giving love. be comfortable with accepting it towards yourself and don’t focus on criticism. there’s probably a lot of things going on but if you could narrow and pin down your inner voice and have more trust in yourself, that’d also be great! take your battles head on! have more trust in the universe even if you are afraid. be upfront and confrontational with what you’re looking for in your craft and make it so that it’s yours. channel any kind of aggression or aggressive energy into fuel for reflection and looking deeper within. speak up for what you believe in. and also choose wisely what battles you’d want to get involved in. sometimes, you don’t need to put your energy into trivial things. just let it be and let it flow on its own….stillness, sacred, serene…

that’s all i have for you FF! thank you for asking such thoughtful questions haha you made me think a bit 😸

[mjmdragons]

SO….for probably the past 18 years ever since I was a freshman in high school who discovered fanfiction, I’ve been writing various (incomplete) pieces for a multitude of fandoms that I was convinced would never see the light of day. Until now. I always end up discovering things late to the party. Most recently Tumblr is one thing. And Jujutsu Kaisen is the other.

As in, I only discovered the series in September. And in my perusal of Tumblr I have read a myriad of insanely talented stories and ideas for Jujutsu Kaisen. But one thing that has stuck out to me is that I have never seen any fic that has Toji having a sister. I’ve seen stories of Suguru and Satoru having a sister, heck even Yuji. But never Toji.

And it got me thinking, what if he had a sister? Specifically a younger one, how would that impact the storyline of Jujutsu Kaisen. And so I present to you the first Chapter of a story I have spent six months creating (there are a lot of gaping holes). There’s going to be alot of questionable canon accuracy as I’m new to the series. I welcome any corrections and suggestions for improvement. Please bear with me.

I want to give a shoutout to Authorautumnbanks (Happy Brithday🥳) who has been instrumental in giving me feedback from the beginning about every idea of this story I have barraged to her.

She has also for months now been insisting that I finally just jump into the deep waters and post something. And so here I am posting what feels like the insides of my very soul for the internet to see for all of time. I am petrified, tentative and excited. I also honestly don’t really expect anyone to actually read this. But if you do, I appreciate you even taking the time, and I welcome any and all feedback. So without further ado here is Chapter 1.

Also: this is an 18+ Story. Minors do NOT interact.

When There Were Three

Chapter 1

Like a game of chess
I predict your move
I think I know you better
Better than you do

——The Downtown Fiction

For years Toji had longed to leave the Zenin clan, although the steps he had been surreptitiously taking to do so hadn’t really kicked into high gear until this past year.

He could’ve probably left years ago, no sweat off his back really. Probably.

It was making sure he had the funds to provide for his sister Maaya too (while raising her) that made leaving easier said than done.

It wasn’t uncommon for the Zenins or other lesser clans to send their girls off like herds of dumb innocent cattle to be shipped off to “schools” where they were taught (amongst other things)on how to seduce powerful men to ensure political power, continued lineage, and financial wealth to their clans.

They were transformed from uncouth animals into lifeless, unquestioning pretty porcelain dolls; easily breakable with nothing but emptiness inside once they shattered.

Easily replaceable too. At almost ten Maaya was on the cusp of being separated from him for that explicit purpose. They would rob her of her laughter, her smile, then her joy, her imagination, her sassiness, her determination, and finally what was left of her will.

“What would you think about leaving here?” Toji Zenin asked her while she brushed her teeth, finally voicing aloud his plan to her.

Maaya spat in the sink. She had never left the Zenin estate for more than a day before.

“On vacation?” She asked, puzzled, wondering how and if they could afford to even go anywhere.

The corners of her older brother’s mouth twitched as a chuckle escaped him.

“No, for good. Forever. We never come back here again.” Toji clarified, ruffling her hair.

“Where would we go?” Maaya asked, furrowing her brows.

Toji noted that her eyes were wide with genuine curiosity, not apprehension.

“We’d stay with that pretty lady you found under my bed.”

“The naked one?”

There was a loud clearing of a throat, and an averted gaze and red tint to Toji’s cheeks. “Yeah….”

“But, would she be able to afford us? I’ve been thinking alot about why she had no clothes on, and I can’t believe I didn’t realize it sooner. She’s poor! That’s why she was naked. She mustn’t be able to afford any clothes.”

Toji raised a puzzled eyebrow before a laugh emerged from him, a kind that Maaya had never heard before. Normally he would let out a husky chuckle from within his throat.

But this laugh came from somewhere deep within his gut, filling up every space of the room and quickly dissolved into a fit of giggles.

Those giggles made Maaya giggle, even if she wasn’t sure what exactly was so funny. Grownups were weird.

“T-that’s not quite, never mind.” Toji shook his head as a few more genuine chuckles escaped him and wiped his eyes with the back of his hand.

Toji’s jade green eyes always crinkled when he found something amusing. He pressed Maaya to his side so that her face was squished against the solid wall of muscle hidden beneath coarse fabrics of his hakama.

“Don’t ever change Twerp.” He rumpled her hair even more and let out a loud exhale.

“I won’t..” Maaya flailed, her voice muffled as he squished her even more. “You’re heavy!”

“If we leave here, we can be just like everyone else out there, like that lady.”

“You mean, we won’t get thrown in the curse pits anymore?” Maaya’s voice held a mixture of apprehension and a tinge of hope.

“No more curse pits ever.”

“And they really won’t hate us because we don’t have cursed energy? They’ll be nice?”

“Most of them, yes. They’re good people. Like the pretty lady.”

“Are you going to marry her? Is that why we’re staying with her?”

“Would you like me to marry her?”

“Does she make you happy?” Maaya tilted her head inquisitively.

“The happiest.” A rugged smile curled, and his sharp gaze softened considerably.

“Okay, then I would.” Maaya nodded, satisfied with that explanation and then paused. “But….only if you always make her happy too. It’s not fair if she’s never happy.”

“Well, I’m gonna do my best to kiddo.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Maaya held on tightly to Toji’s hand as they walked through the streets of Tokyo.

Even though the almost ten-year old had wandered these streets many times when sneaking out with Satoru Gojo to play ever since they were six, she felt an odd mixture of apprehension and anticipation now.

Maybe it was because there was no going back to the Zenin compound now, and their lives were now uprooted. When she and Gojo would chase each other, there was no set destination for where they wanted to go, but there didn’t need to be. They were just two little kids having fun.

Maaya never realized how much of a minimalist she was until they were packing the night before and everything she owned fit in her backpack. There was no need to take any kimonos.

Toji had said that the woman they’d be staying with (Midori Fushiguro was apparently her name) would have clothes for her to wear when they got there. So Maaya really just ended up taking a few books Toji would read to her, an extra sweatshirt, and that was basically it.

The little blue eyed white cat plushie keychain that Gojo had won for her while playing festival games was securely hooked onto the belt loop of Maaya’s pants.

She kept reaching down to check to make sure it was still there every few minutes. It was probably silly, but Maaya was too nervous about setting down her backpack and accidentally leaving it behind to hook the keychain to its zipper.

Since it was still fairly early in the morning, mixtures of salarymen and kids in schools uniforms flooded past them. Maaya’s gaze lingered on the uniforms of kids that looked close to her age, wondering if she would get to go to a school like theirs and wear one too.

She sure hoped so.

A group of girls in particular seemed to be giggling and laughing. It looked like they were having fun. It was something Maaya had never experienced with anyone her age outside of Gojo before.

It was an odd fact of her life that seemed impossible, ridiculous even, being part of a clan as huge and old as the Zenins.

But, when you had absolutely no cursed energy like her and Toji, your very existence was a sin, a shameful stain to your clan. From birth they were pariahs to the Zenins. Even the servants had more standing than them because they possessed cursed energy. Playing with her cousins, or any of the servant children was an unacceptable social taboo.

Satoru Gojo had broken that iron clad unspoken rule; he had always abhorred rules and traditions, and their friendship was a closely guarded secret.

When Maaya’s presence was required it was to learn archaic traditions like ceremonial dances and the art of tea serving and flower arranging in scant hopes she might attract a husband. As far as primary education, Toji had homeschooled her how to read and write, and basic arithmetic.

If she did go to a public school, she wondered what kind of subjects she’d learn; maybe she’d get to eat out of a lunchbox like all the other kids.

She snapped out of her thoughts as Toji ruffled her hair, having followed her curious gaze to the group of girls her age.

“Don’t worry, you’ll make plenty of friends in no time kiddo.” He promised her, his voice gruff, but his piercing jade green eyes were gentle.

Because of Toji’s imposing height and powerful build, they actually didn’t seem to have to do much weaving through the crowds. Rather, people seemed to quickly get out of Toji’s way, which made it easy for them to make their way to a local restaurant across the next street.

Before Maaya could ask why they were stopping here, a familiar woman with warm brown eyes, short spiky locks of hair, and a bright smile approached them. She was dressed casually in jeans and a hoodie, and embraced Toji with long kiss.

Maaya wrinkled her nose and averted her gaze; grownups were so gross. Seeming to sense her discomfort, the woman broke away from Toji and knelt down so that she was eye level with Maaya.

Suddenly caught off guard by the attention that was on her, Maaya squeezed Toji’s hand even harder, this time with both hands, and pressed her face into Toji’s arm, suddenly overcome with shyness.

The woman beamed, “Hi Pretty Girl. My name’s Midori Fushiguro. It’s nice to meet you again.”

Maaya blinked, her cheeks growing rosie at the unexpected compliment. Pretty?

“Hi!” She squeaked, and with a surge of bravery bowed respectfully to Midori (though she was still clinging onto Toji).

“I-I like your name. It’s pretty just like you,” Maaya blurted out, making Toji laugh and Midori melt.

“What’s your name Twerp?” Toji gently prompted her, his eyes crinkling with amusement. He reached over and poked her side with his free hand.

Maaya glared up at him before turning her attention back to Midori. She swallowed quickly.

“I-I’m Maaya Zenin. Oh, wait, just Maaya because we’re not Zenins anymore.” She felt Toji ruffle her hair in quiet approval.

“I think your name’s actually closer to ‘Octopus’ with how you’re gripping onto me.” Toji teased, which earned him a united glare from both Maaya and Midori.

“Aw, be nice Toji; she’s just a little shy. And such a cutie! Are you hungry for some breakfast Maaya?” Midori smiled sweetly.

Maaya nodded eagerly as her tummy rumbled.

“Great! This place has a lot of sweet breads and donuts you can eat. And then after we eat breakfast and get you guys settled in, there’s a playground nearby that we could go to.” Midori suggested hopefully.

“Really, we can play there?” Maaya glanced at Toji hesitantly, who nodded.

“Sure we can.” Toji shrugged, a lot more relaxed than he’d been an hour ago.

That confirmation seemed to break any lingering trepidation or shyness Maaya had because she let out an excited cheer.

Midori didn’t even get a chance to blink before Maaya began eagerly inquiring about how big the slide was, and launching into a tale about how she tried sliding off the rooftop of the Zenin bath house a week ago, but accidentally landed on some Chrysanthemums in the process.

Midori took one look at Toji’s astonished face and burst out laughing. “Oh I like you, you keep Toji on his toes, don’t you?”

Maaya seemed to puff up with pride like the fresh breakfast pastry she eagerly bit into. “Of course I do; he runs really funny when he tells me not to do something. That’s why I do it anyways.”

“I do what now?” Toji raised a disbelieving eyebrow as he took a skeptical bite of his breakfast.

Maaya stared incredulously at her big brother: “You. Run. Really. Funny.” She repeated slowly annunciating every word as if Toji had suddenly gone nearly deaf AND dumb.

“You know how chickens are too fat to fly but they still try to flap their wings anyways while they run around?” Maaya painted a generous picture.

“Yeah….” Toji eyed his little sister suspiciously. Was she calling him fat now?

“Well, you look even MORE ridiculous than that when you run.” Maaya nodded affirmatively with a shrug of her shoulders before turning back to her breakfast; completely oblivious to the ego damage she had inflicted.

Midori choked on her juice as she failed to hold back her laughter. Heck, she didn’t even try to not laugh.

Toji sighed heavily, and rolled his eyes at Midori. “Whose side are you on again?”

“Oh, hers for sure.” Midori snorted, “Like that’s even a question.”

The bravery of this kid (who was entirely dependent on him for survival) to roast him so easily never ceases to amaze him. Toji swore in terms of discipline, he was gentle parenting his baby sister, but Maaya had clearly missed the memo that she was supposed to be gentle childing back.

“It’s such a relief you’re as smart as you are pretty. All Toji has to offer is his pretty hair. But I think you’ll be just fine.” Maaya told Midori who looked positively gleeful at the compliment.

“I like the way you think.” She held up her hand to high five Maaya, who happily accepted.

“I like it too!” Maaya agreed with a confident nod.

Well, she sure got over that shyness fast, Toji internally scoffed as he took a sip of his coffee. But as he watched Midori and Maaya chatting away as if they’d known each other their whole lives, he felt his mouth curving up into a small smile, and there was a pleasant stirring in his chest.

He turned his attention to the window, and noticed the leaves just starting to turn color outside.

It was nice Toji decided, to be able to look forward to things changing, and this time it felt like it was for the better.

~~~~~~~

Bonus scene:

“Toji, have you seen my shoes? I looked everywhere.” Maaya was bouncing on the heels of her feet with way too much pep this early in the morning.

He made a mental note to check how much sugar was in her cereal later. She was unnaturally alert; and Toji was not a morning person.

He poured what was left in his flask into his coffee cup, and rubbed his temples.

“Are you sure you checked everywhere?” He muttered, forgetting that Midori hadn’t snuck out the window, once their latest romp in the sheets had finished.

Maaya tilted her head in thought. “Pretty sure….oh…well maybe….” She paused, biting her lip in thought, clearly backtracking.

“Go check again everywhere.” Toji all but pushed her out of the kitchen of their living quarters.

“Okay.”

“I should start sedating her cereal.” Toji rolled his eyes, letting his head hit the table with a weary thud.

Midori heard whispers, and footsteps. Odd since she lived alone——ohhh!

Her eyes snapped open and a simultaneous feeling of dread and panic seized her brain as she took in her surroundings with groggy eyes.

Oh shit shit shit…she could kill Toji. She knew that lying next to him wasn’t going to be for “just a few more minutes.”

He probably really was married. The jerk! Clan rules her ass. How had she never put it together before??? Why else would he be sneaking her in?

In times of panic, one’s mind works dumbly as the body attempts to seek crude ways of survival.

In Midori’s case, she rolled off the bed, still completely naked and crawled under the narrow space between the bed and the floor when she heard footsteps coming close.

Oddly light footsteps.

It took everything in her not to scream as the sheets hanging off the bed were lifted up, and pair of green eyes that were not Toji’s stared back at her.

“Hi?” She wheezed inhaling a dust bunny. Idiot! She should’ve played dead.

The sheets fell down a moment later, and then the door opened and the footsteps started to retreat.

The walls were thin. And despite the thunderous boom of her stupid heart thudding nonstop, she could hear the conversation going on in the next room:

“Did you find your shoes?”

“Nope. But, um…. I did find a lady under your bed.”

There was a sound of intense choking.

“A what?”

“A lady….she had no clothes on. But I don’t think she was a curse. She didn’t attack me; she said hi. Actually, I know she’s not a curse, she’s way too pretty.”

Toji’s voice sounded strangled.

“Is that right?”

“Yep! She’s way prettier than all the other girls you keep sneaking in. No wonder you were kissing her near the moat last night. You never do that with all the others. You’re not very good at being sneaky are you?”

Midori felt her blood boil and her right eye twitch.

Toji was going to be a goddamn eunuch once she got out of here.

She missed what Toji said next.

“Well, it’s your bed Toji. What you keep under there is what you can fit I guess. Just not my shoes. I’m gonna go play——oh is it fun?”

“Is what fun?” Toji sounded like he was getting stabbed.

“Kissing. That’s all you ever do with girls. Is it fun?”

“I guess….”

“Well it must be for them; because talking to you is a real bore.”

“Listen Twerp——“

“But if kissing‘s all there is to have fun when I’m grown; I’d rather just climb trees forever instead.”

Toji’s laughter reverberated throughout the room and gave Midori goosebumps.

“I’m gonna hold you to that. Now….get lost Twerp.”

“Just not under a bed?” Came the cheeky reply.

“OUT!”

I just wanna run, hide it away
Run because they're chasing me down
I just wanna run, throw it away
Run before they're finding me out
I just wanna run
I just wanna run




[chidoroki]

182 Days of TPN: Day 32

Chapter 32: “Action, Part 1”

From the very moment Norman walked out that door, Emma didn’t give herself any time to grieve and began formulating plans straight away and if that’s not the definition of strength and perseverance then I dunno what is. (kinda wish the anime had showed us how her mind was working overtime but I get they wanted to keep us on edge. that and it lacks internal dialogue to being with).

WARNING: Master actor trope coming in hot! My love for this girl shot through the damn roof when I experienced ep11 for the first time. She is unbelievably clever and nothing thrills me more than seeing our sweet girl so pissed off like this.

Once again, thanks to Krone for this valuable piece of advice because it certainly works wonders on Isabella. Well, I’ll partially give her credit for telling Emma this, but most of the praise goes to our leading actress as she effectively kept up the defeated, woe-is-me act for two whole months while also planning the real escape on the side, leaving Isabella (and even Ray) in the dark.

I love them. I love my chaotic little duo so much. The fact they barely spoke to each other since Norman’s shipment yet managed to stay on the same wavelength by focusing on their respective escape plans and maintaining an effective false mask around Isabella is amazing.

I love Isabella with all my heart, but how could she not notice all the supplies that went missing from the house? I know she was solely focused on RE and Emma mentions “Even if mom was watching us like a hawk, she only has two eyes,” but not once did mom ever question anything..? Really? The kids most likely secured items one thing at a time so she couldn’t notice something missing here or there, but that’s still a lot of stuff. (And someone tell me why the house even had backpacks?? It’s not like the adults wanted the kids to actually go anywhere.)

Y’all don’t have time to chat! By now you got less than twenty minutes til midnight and Emma is already very aware of the crazy idea Ray’s hoping to carry out thanks to the note Norman left behind, but YEAH, sure! Let’s take a seat! Relax! Go ahead and fool us all sweetie, it’ll all contribute to the surprise factor later.

I voice this wish a lot, but I really wanted to see them use those molotovs. It would’ve caused some damage to the other plants too but who cares! Imagine watching the escapees run across the wall and setting fires left and right, oohh that would’ve been so sick. Ray prepared so much for the escape with these and the tracker breaking device yet they all go unused and it’s a shame!

I always loved this panel but recently I gotta admit it ain’t perfect. In my mind anyways. Of course it’s iconic and it sorta parallels that upcoming moment of Emma’s in ch33, but it annoys me that it breaks the 180 degree rule by suddenly having Ray on the right side! He’s been on the left for the majority of this chapter, so why switch our view of this entire scene now??

Of course Ray’s still against taking the babies since they’ll be more of a hindrance once outside the farm, but what matters most to him is that Emma escapes safely, so he drops the unspoken argument. The way he also tells her to leave so she doesn’t have to witness himself being engulfed in flames is so bittersweet.. aahh god he just cares so much about her well-being and emotions and that makes me so soft for them.

♫ Do you hear chidoroki scream? Screaming the name of an angry boy? It is the moment of the series that she’ll want not to witness again! When the beating of her heart echoes the laughter of his voice, she feared there will be no more Ray when tomorrow comes! ♫

Dear boy, I love you to the moon and back, but I dunno whether to be very proud, scared or concerned??

I always say that Ray used the camera for its intended purpose and took pictures to throw off any suspicions that Isabella could’ve had about the real reason why he wanted said camera as a reward, but the fact he kept every picture to give to Emma, the one person who loves this family more than anything, is so damn precious. (and it completely breaks my heart that the pictures eventually become altered at the end of the story thanks to demon bastard.)

This post already feels long as hell but aahhh, this is definitely a moment I’m glad I didn’t have to wait for the manga to update.. I would’ve been crying the entire week.

Favorite panel/moment:

My sweet boy I’m glad you had fun but noooo!!!!!