#yes he may have almost ended the world about it but i forgive him

[obsesssedblerd]

ok hear me out: Given what I've already said, I feel like I have to at least submit a defense for why I still think Satoru is redeemable lol. First, I imagine reader already knew he was arrogant before they got together. And I can see a justification for his frustration and why he would lash out, he is under a lot of pressure, people do ask him to do a lot (gojo's daily schedule that gege shared?? crazy), and I'm sure he does feel like he can't take a break w/o someone needing him for something, which is annoying!! And yes he is the strongest and is capable, but that's a mindset thing and everyone has lashed out at someone that felt safe, because you assume they are not going to leave -- it's just unfortunate for him that his consequences ended up being so dire. I just also think those are the only kind of consequences that he would learn from. He doesn't ever really think anything is his fault, and if reader and students hadn't almost died, I don't think he would have really ever change his behavior, just continued on an "apologize for the behaviour instead of work on improvement" path. So obviously the consequences needed to be serious, however their jobs are dangerous and they could technically always die on a mission, so I would also argue that its sort of not.. that serious...? (DONT COME FOR ME PLS) I'm not eloquent enough to explain what I mean by that properly, so that's just gonna have to be enough.

I think that reader would absolutely need space bc who wouldn't?? I certainly wouldn't be able o look at him without resenting him for a while. But without other longstanding relationship issues, I can see a world where I would personally come to accept it? If Satoru expressed genuine remorse (and ideally took some time to think about what his issues are stemming from instead of taking it out on reader...), accepted that space was required, and showed he was more present/attentive with the people who actually rely on him, I would miss him!!! and probably would rationalize "well, technically I could always die". Now, those are a lot of hypotheticals and assumptions that we don't know, I just wanted to provide an example of how/why I think it could still work.

I truly think that depending on a persons priorities, a lot of things can be worked through/forgiven, but of course that is person to person and not everyone is going to feel or think the same way, no matter what the outcome may not be what everyone wants and that's just how it is no one's wrong for wanting one or the other.

omg I'm so sorry for the essay, this could all be completely irrelevant anyone, since you're gonna make what you're gonna make, I just felt like I needed to express its not completely delulu to forgive any of them. I'm just a happy ending kind of person at heart I fully and openly admit I am a sympathizer tho, so there are plenty who would read this and think that's not good enough to forgive lol

some parts of this post were a part of my thought process when writing pt four (and five tbh) 🩷

[gotmyass2marz]

daily 3am Getting Emotional About Characters session

[wardensantoineandevka]

I will say, at the end of the day, I am very fond of Illario Dellamorte, despite it all. Yes, he managed to make every single POSSIBLE bad decision one can make, then figured out how to make a few more that nobody else would've thought possible. Yes, he was increasingly sloppy and incredibly stupid about it all. Yes, a lot of his frustration and rage is incredibly misdirected. Yes, I said before the game came out that I support him having a villain era, and I still do because it's fun and I love mess and drama—as much as he stresses me out and makes me want to strangle him because Jesus Fucking Christ.

Still, I think I like the idea of forgiving him. For me, there's something interesting in how he doesn't kill Caterina, in how he didn't ask for what happened to Lucanis and seems genuinely angry—wrong as he is to direct it at Lucanis—that the control that Lucanis so highly prized was taken from him rather than dying at his best, in how he can engineer Lucanis's death but experience a grief that still feels harrowingly genuine at the wake, in how he clearly is grasping at any possible advantage and is carelessly choosing his allies not because he believes in their goals or ideals but because he's desperately power-hungry and ambitious and no more. In how, if he is forgiven, Lucanis is impressed he almost got away with it, in how Illario goes to help the Crows in Minrathous in that last gambit.

He's a mess, and he's selfish and ambitious and vicious and contradictory. But, I have a soft spot for characters like him and relationships like his and Lucanis's, y'know? Forgiving him and forcing him to work out his life after he's burned nearly every bridge he has is just really interesting to me, especially given how Lucanis is still full of hope and affection for him alongside the hurt. How do you rebuild after all that, you don't even have the devil-may-care breezy mask anymore because everyone knows better now. Figure out where he fits now in his cousin's life, because I do think—at the end of the day—the affection and relief is still there from both sides, under it all. Deeply buried possibly, for Illario, but there.

I think there's enough pieces here to suggest that he and Lucanis have a chance to actually figure it out, and to suggest that Illario might actually get his shit together and be willing to given opportunity, time, and patience. It's also a messy choice (and a huge risk), but I do personally like the idea of forgiving him. I like the messy, insane, dramatic narrative of it. He has potential, as Lucanis himself notes. I would love to see if he can rise to it, now that he's gotten all of this out of his system.

Or, at least forgive him because there's something funny about that and I want to see what else he does if given the chance. It'll probably also be a mess, but I'd love to see what messes he gets up to when he's not plotting against the person closest to him in the world. It'll be fun! But, sincerely, I do think he can get his shit together, and I hope and believe he wants to. It's the more interesting and fun story to me, for both him and Lucanis, personally speaking.

[linos-luna]

My Queen (Pt. 3) ❣️🔪

Yandere!Hyunjin x Fem!Reader

Warning: Yandere, 18+, delusions, Stockholm Syndrome, Sex

(Pt. 4)

—————————— 👑———————————

Another month or two passes by fairly quick. Everyday Hyunjin loved and worshiped you. It was a bit suffocating at times but you actually ended up falling for him.

Isn’t falling for your captor is the definition of Stockholm Syndrome??

The relationship was odd. You loved him but at the same time, was a little afraid. Hyunjin wasn’t violent often but sometimes he’d lose composure and lash out. He’d snap at random but would then apologize profusely right after. You were a bit worried for him as he seemed to slip deeper into this delusion. But one thing is for sure, he always knew how to please you…

~~~~~~~ 👑

You slept peacefully on your stomach, snuggling into the pillows as you breathed softly. A mid-day nap. Hyunjin says you need your beauty sleep. And you don’t mind.

As your eyes slowly opened and adjusted to the light, you turned to a side, only to see Hyunjin laying there, staring straight at you. It made you nearly jump.

“Jinnie?!” You laughed nervously. “W-what are you doing here?”

“Watching.” he replied bluntly.

“Why…?”

“Because I have to.” He said while sitting up.

Hyunjin helped you sit up as well and kissed your hand before looking at you a bit worried.

“My love?”

“Yes?”

“Why do you want to leave?” He asked with a frown. “I heard you talk in your sleep.”

“I-… I don’t want to leave you—”

“But you want to leave the castle!” He interrupted. “I upkeep it to your standards! Just for you!”

You felt like you need some outside interaction. However, Hyunjin never lets you out. Only every once in a while to the “garden” out back.

“Jinnie—”

“No! You can’t!” He yelled while squeezing your hand.

“My queen may want a nice walk….. she deserves the world… but No! you can’t leave!”

It was almost as if he was arguing with himself as you stopped replying entirely. He really did seemed distraught at the idea of you leaving… it got you thinking.

Someone is probably looking for you. And if you could just make a call or text telling people not to worry, that’d be nice. You knew your phone was here because you’ve seen it once or twice but Hyunjin never let you have it.

“Jinnie!” You said while rubbing his hands. “I’m not going to leave. I’ll never leave you… but I want to do more…”

“More?” Hyunjin perked up. “What more could you want, my love?”

“Well I want to go outside more….”

“Then we go to the garden!” He instantly stood and tried pulling you but you didn’t budge.

“No I mean out as in the front… like in public.”

“I tell you that it’s dangerous! Anyone could hurt you! Or take you away!” He said while shaking his head. “I cannot loose my queen again!”

“You won’t…”

“Then it’s final!” Hyunjin exclaimed with a smile. “End of discussion! I shall make lunch now.”

“Jinnie-?”

“I’ll let you know when it is ready.” He said before kissing your cheek and shuffling out.

You sighed while getting up, looking around the room to where your phone might be. The least you could do is tell your friends that you’re okay.

Finally you find it when looking through his drawers. Low battery but still useful.

You looked at some messages from friends. Messages from coworkers asking about your whereabouts. Before you could answer them, your phone was suddenly snatched away.

“What are you doing?!” Hyunjin yelled frantically while holding your phone back.

“Jinnie, I just wanted to tell my friends im okay—”

Suddenly the man throws your phone to the floor, definitely destroying it in the process.

“You can’t!” He grabbed your shoulders and pulled you close as you started to cry.

“No! Don’t cry, my love!” He got on his knees in front of you and had his forehead to your hand. “Forgive me!”

“Why’d you break it?!”

“Someone could find you!!”

“Hyunjin—”

Before you could finish your sentence, he got up and suddenly grabbed you by the face and started desperately making out with you.

It caught you by surprise and you tried pulling away to breathe, only for him to pull you back in.

“My queen…” he whispered briefly between kisses. “Darling… please…”

He was frantic. These kisses were desperate and you were finally able to pull away.

“My Love, I didn’t mean to make you cry.” He frowned.

“I wanna go outside…” you said in a hushed tone. “Please… I’ll be so happy…”

Hyunjin was conflicted. He wants to please you and do whatever to make you happy but also wanted to keep you safe. He was sure someone would do something if you went outside. And what if you leave??

“There is a park nearby…” he sighed. “Not too many people are there…”

“Can we have a picnic?!” You perked up and he loved the little happy glow on your face.

“Yes of course! Anything for you, my queen.”

You were so happy to hear this and gave him a big hug.

~~~~~~ 👑

After getting some food prepared and getting dressed, Hyunjin was ready for your little picnic.

You emerged from the room in a blue sun dress along with a white cardigan. Hyunjin was head over heels when seeing you. He kissed your hand and bowed a little before putting a sun hat on you.

“We must protect your pure skin.”

He wasn’t entirely truthful about that. Yes, protecting your skin was important, but he actually wanted to be sure that no one would recognize you.

“My queen, you are the most beautiful woman to walk this earth.” He said while rubbing your hand.

“Thank you, Jinnie.” You blushed. He always knew how to make you feel special…

~~~ 👑

Walking out the front door, you felt the cool air hit your face and sighed. Fresh air and feeling of freedom.

You could run. You had the chance… but why would you do that? Hyunjin would be sad. And you? Well, you’d lose your dear lover.

The park was a short walk away. He held your hand and draped a blanket over his other.

You held the basket with food. Luckily it wasn’t too heavy.

Hyunjin was relieved to see that there was almost no one around. There seemed to be another couple there that were having their own little date but that was all.

It was an ideal day. Warm but lightly breezy. The sky was clear and sun shining.

“Darling, should we set up here?” He asked.

“Yeah this is fine.”

Hyunjin was quick to set up. He laid out the blanket and pulled food from the basket. Two sandwiches, some grapes, strawberries, and blueberries. There was also two cans of soda.

You didn’t have to do anything. Only sit there and be pretty.

Soon enough, you were enjoying lunch. Hyunjin fed you the grapes and strawberries, saying that they were fresh berries from the garden. Whenever he spoke you only giggled. As delusional as his words were, you thought it was cute.

To anyone outside looking in, it just looks like you were having a cute date with a sweet boy.

There was a path nearby so people would walk by every once in a while. Hyunjin only glared at them or make it a point to suddenly kiss you.

Being out here in public had him on edge. No one should lay their eyes on his beautiful queen.

“Darling, are you having a good time?”

“Yes.” You nodded with a big smile. “I am!”

He was glad to hear and pulled you in for another kiss. You actually chased his lips when he momentarily pulled away and made little desperate whines as you added more passion into this kiss.

“My queen…” he whispered against your lips. “Do you love me?”

“Mmhm.” You replied while lightly nodding. “More than anything.”

Hyunjin’s heart was pounding. He was so happy to hear this and he couldn’t help himself as a tear rolled down his cheek.

“Jinnie, I want more…” you whispered.

“More?”

“More…” you moaned while kissing him again and taking his hand, moving it up your thigh. Not seemingly caring who could possibly watch.

“My Queen…” he chuckled. “The guards will not appreciate such actions in public…”

“Oh?” You pouted while moving the skirt of your dress over his hand so no one could see. “I wanna go back to the castle, Jinnie…”

“Of course, my queen!” You said nodded and stood up instantly.

You couldn’t wait…

~~~~~~~ 👑

[6pm]

Soon enough you found yourself in the bedroom. Soft airy moans escaped your lips as you moved. You were riding Hyunjin’s cock while he laid down. He looking up in admiration; your beautiful form and desperate face was incredibly hot to him.

Here you are, desperately grinding against him with nothing but your bra on. He loves it.

There were no thoughts. Your mind was mush as you continued. Hyunjin had his hands on your hips but it was you doing the work. He may not be directly controlling you, but in a way he had you under some control.

“Jinnie~” you moaned softly. “Jinnie~”

“Fuck yourself as much as you want, my love.” He grunted, obviously trying to control himself as well. Something about seeing his lovely and pure queen doing something not so pure was really getting him worked up. Corruption. And only he could do it.

Soon enough, you came; your eyes rolled back and back slightly arched. It was the best orgasm you’d had in a while…You were in a daze as Hyunjin bucked his hips to get his high as well. The overwhelming feeling had you whimpering.

After pulling out, he grabbed your panties and sweatpants, putting them on you before laying down next to you.

In this moment, you were in love. It must be daze you’re in… all your worries about your situation had disappeared. What situation? Being with the man you love? The man that believes you’re royalty?

Are you… the delusional one?

[bloodiedrogue]

A FOOLISH LOVER'S OFFERING (10)

SUMMARY: On the way to Moonrise you and Astarion talk about some important things.

PAIRING: Astarion & Female Reader

WORD COUNT: 3,060

WARNINGS: Spoilers for Act 2 (henceforth there will be spoilers in all chapters here on out), ANGST, mentions of murder.

AUTHOR'S NOTE: Hi this chapter single handedly took every brain cell I had to write so hopefully you like it because I just want to set it on fire for all the grief it has caused me!!

CHAPTER LIST / MASTERLIST / NEXT CHAPTER

-

“Gods, I hate this place.”

Gripping your torch, you try your best to focus on the Harper’s. How they move through the shadows, navigating every twist and turn without issue, leading you through the pathways.

It hasn’t been long since you’ve started your journey. No longer can you see the shining veil of the Inn but, given what you know, you’re well aware that your destination isn’t nearly ahead either. There’s still plenty of walking to do. A few hour's journey at the least. Perhaps more if Astarion insists on continuing to walk so slowly.

At your side, his eyes scan the trees with a heavy breath, taking in the decrepit scenery at such a leisurely pace that it makes you huff and glance around, noting the distance between you and the others. At this point, you’re close enough that you can still see them but too far to hear what any of them are saying —something you’re certain Astarion’s done on purpose when he plants his arm around your shoulder.

“You know, I happen to find it quite charming. All the dread and despair. It’s a bit like being at home.” 

You give him a look, raising your brow only to receive a snort in response, confirming that he’s (thankfully) kidding. “Ha, you think you’re so funny, don’t you?”

“Funny?” He moves his other hand to his chest, placing it against his leathers. “Darling, I’m hilarious.” 

“Yes, yes, a real jester.” 

His fingers flex around your shoulder, squeezing. “I’ll have you know I’ve always been funny. Even before all this vampiric bullshit.” 

“Yeah?”

He nods, a slight thought flashing across his face that makes you wonder what he’s thinking about. Given the circumstances, you assume it’s a thought of the past. Perhaps of his life before Cazador’s reign. When he was merely an elf roaming topside around Baldur’s Gate without a care in the world. You imagine he was funny back then. Mischievous. Probably a little too out there, even for a magistrate considering the personality you’ve grown to love. Based on pure assumption, he probably had more fun in one night than you in a lifetime, spending his hard-earning coin on good food and drinks and—

“It’s rude to stare, you know.” He pulls you tighter into him, using his free hand to pluck the torch out of your hand so that you can wrap yourself around him. As you do, both of you breathe a sigh of what feels like relief, even though you’re currently experiencing anything but.

“Sorry.”

“Well, you were staring at me, so I suppose I can forgive.” 

“Many thanks, my liege.” 

He growls suggestively under his breath, making you scoff. “My liege, hm, I could get behind that.” 

“Of course you could.” 

“My liege,” he repeats, tasting it on his tongue, eyeing you with a lusty gaze that doesn’t quite make its mark. 

Which only furthers the assumption that he’s deep inside his head still. Sifting through thoughts you’re completely unaware of as you walk in tandem to your potential untimely end. Almost immediately, it makes you wonder if maybe this is the right time to start asking questions. To finally speak up about the inquiries that have filed through your skull. Because after this, there’s no telling where you may find yourselves. You could be killed or locked away —lost to an abyss of some kind.

The options are endless; however, time is not, so instead of stewing in the silence you currently find yourselves in, you look up at him, taking in the shape of his face.

You’ve known him long enough now to know that the comments he often makes about his beauty are true. In appearance, he’s almost otherworldly. A beacon of well-aged flesh your eyes feel constantly drawn to. Whenever he’s around there’s this feeling of awe that comes forth. A subtle beating in your chest that quickens each time he’s present. When you look at him —really look at him— your eyes tend to open a little wider, surprised by how every feature seems to fit so perfectly in place. How everything feels uncharacteristically cohesive given his time spent abused beneath the moon, forced to stave and serve for all eternity. 

If it weren’t for the issue of Cazador you’d be convinced he was blessed by the Gods themselves. Melded by their very hands to create a being of such high temptation and desire. You imagine them brainstorming his existence. Tirelessly spending weeks on end crafting the perfect specimen that would ultimately end up broken. 

You realize then, taking in the lines that have developed throughout countless bouts of false grinning, that the very thing he loves most about himself was more than likely the result of his own downfall.

A downfall you find you’re still curious about. Even after your conversation, Astarion’s life before all this still holds an air of mystery. Between details already revealed, there are still patches of missing information. Sections of time where assumptions feel wrong but asking feels just as bad. And because of that, deep down, you know you should leave the curiosity alone. Pack it into the back of your mind for later use, but with the oncoming war and no determined outcome, you instead loosen your hold and take a side step. 

“Can I ask you something?”

He narrows his eyes, readjusting his position now that you’re not locked against him, suddenly looking awkward as he puffs out his chest. “Depends.” 

“On?”

“Whether or not the question is going to be depressing,” he replies. “Because you have that look in your eye.”

“What look?”

He reaches out to poke your forehead, pressing it roughly. “The one where your brows look like they’re going to become one at a moment’s notice.”

Swatting his hand away, you twitch your brows back into their proper positioning, annoyed. “I was going to ask about Cazador,” you tell him, truthfully. “I know he’s probably not a topic you want to discuss as we waltz to our potential doom but —I don’t know— I just have questions.” 

He sighs deeply, drawing out his breath before giving you an unimpressed look that speaks volumes.

He doesn’t want to talk about it. Nor do you, but at the same time, you’re at the point where you’re unable to deny your interest because Astarion’s your friend. A companion you cherish more than you know you should. A person whose well-being is so important you’d virtually do anything to maintain it. Which is why you’re determined to pry a bit more than usual. Taking these final moments you have to yourself to ask the one question you’ve been wondering for ages. 

“What will you do about him? When this is all over.”

Surprisingly, there’s no hesitation in his words when he tells you he’ll kill him. As you continue along the path, listening to him come up with all the vile ways he’d do it, you find yourself strangely calm. Numb almost to the descriptions of stakes being driven into hearts or knives slicing through jugular veins. Lost in the way he throws your torch around with every passing phrase.

“Personally, I think a stake to the heart’s a bit cheap,” you eventually comment, watching him laugh. Hearing the way the sound quickly flutters out and hits your ears, making you smile despite the subject matter. 

“It’s a classic for a reason, my dear.” 

“Is it though? I mean, in my experience there’s far better ways to kill someone.”

“Is there, now? Do tell.” 

You’re not sure if it’s just because you’ve grown used to the excessive violence throughout your journey or because Astarion’s tendencies have potentially rubbed off on you. Either way, as the two of you joke of his master’s demise you find yourself wondering if maybe such a result is even plausible. Sure, you’ve never killed a vampire. Hell, before Astarion you’re not even sure you’ve seen one up close, but for him, you’d be willing to try. Especially given the ever-growing lack of regard for your own safety.

“Honestly, the only thing that’s coming to mind is cutting him open and doing something to his innards.” 

His brows shoot up in surprise, making you laugh. “Mm, a cold-blooded killer after my own heart.”

You roll your eyes, prompting his hand to subtly grip your own. Tangling your fingers together, he raises your palm carefully up to his lips and places a lingering kiss. One that tickles your flesh long after he’s gone, leaving you grinning like a fool, wondering if this is what love feels like. 

You imagine it is. Deep beneath the surface, your chest is tight but not with fear. Instead, there’s only warmth that spreads —a growing sensation of heat that wraps around your lungs and heart. Filling you with this discomforting ache that only he can alleviate. So much so that it makes you want to scream sometimes, knowing he’s the cause. That somehow through his charms and tricks he’s managed to find a home inside your chest without permission. How he’s sliced you open with that wicked grin and crawled inside, calling you darling all the while. 

It makes you wonder if he feels the same. If all the afflictions he’s given you are returned in some capacity. If when you look at him his mouth goes dry or his heart skips a beat. Or the longing to be near is indeed reciprocated and not just another plot to keep you close.

Because sometimes it’s hard to tell. 

Throughout your journey, you’ve gone back and forth a hundred times, debating the possibilities —weighing the pros and cons of every interaction that you’ve ever had. Even now, knowing such trivial thoughts should be the last thing on your mind, you can’t help but wonder: does he care for you? Truly? Does he think of you? Does he look for you? Within his everyday thoughts does your presence linger in the background, waiting for the right moment to be put on full display for him to admire?

Does he love you?

“You know, if you ever need help with the whole murdering Cazador thing…”

It sounds ridiculous when you say it. So nonchalant and unfazed. Even you have to cringe at the way you trail off, waiting for him to speak. Praying that he’ll laugh or scoff or say literally anything to fill the silence you find yourselves walking through. 

It takes him a while but eventually, you hear him quietly sigh, his gaze moving to view your nervous face. “It won’t be easy, you know. Cazador isn’t some vagabond with a blade, he’s—“

“I know.”

“No, you don’t.”

He says it like a warning. As if he’s preparing to scold you for speaking out of term, narrowing his eyes with a huff. “Darling, I appreciate the enthusiasm but Cazador —he’s different. He’s not like the villains we’ve faced thus far. He isn’t motivated by greed or lust. The only thing he wants is power. Power over me —over you.” 

He pauses then, swallowing hard. Making it apparent then that this hypothetical conversation of murderous jokes has turned into something far more real. That your offering is no longer a mere gesture of kindness but instead a potential act of solidarity. One that you extend further by running your thumb along his, applying a bit of pressure at the joint, feeling him twitch. 

“You know there’s very little I wouldn’t do for you, right?” 

In an instant his eyes are on you, staring in surprise, trying to process the words that’ve just spilled through your lips. At first, they’re focused on their position, fully immersed in the way you clear your throat, trying to suppress a nervous laugh as you continue to grip his hand. Not long after though, they start to go distant, moving past your face to view the trees behind you, fizzling out of reality so quick that all you can do is try to pull him back. 

“I know you probably think I’m in idiot for even suggesting that fact that I may be capable of killing someone who spent centuries in control of so many people—“

“A bit, yes.” 

You snort, watching him slowly start to return to you, his lips curling into a half smile you can’t help but reach out and touch, stopping your stride. “But I would do anything you asked of me. Even if it meant death, I would kill that bastard for you without hesitation. Whatever way you wanted, whether it’s decapitation or throwing him off a bloody cliff or—“

The light of the torch shifts as his hand slips out of yours, taking hold of your head to guide you to his lips. To press his mouth to yours with such need that the breath within your lungs is ripped out. Swallowed behind his starving tongue —lapping whatever life you have to offer as his hand drifts over your cheek, taking hold of your flesh to keep you from leaving.

Standing still, you can feel the tenseness of his frame as it all happens. How aside from his mouth and hand the rest of him refuses to move, prompting you to reach out, running your hands along his sides, coaxing him to relax. 

When his body does, you slowly pull away, sucking in air like your life depends on it, watching with half-lidded eyes and swollen lips as he opens his mouth to speak, stuttering out something incoherent before swearing under his breath. 

Narrowing your eyes further, you watch him struggle to speak, wondering what could be going on in that complicated brain of his as he turns his body, releasing you from his grasp in favour of moving forward again.

Immediately, it makes you drop your jaw in annoyance, watching his hands move towards his hair, gripping his locks in frustration as you hear him mutter to himself and continue to move, leaving you behind. 

“Hold on, you’re just going to kiss me like that and walk away?” 

He doesn’t even turn to acknowledge you as you yell, making you even angrier as you race toward him, placing a rough hand against his shoulder to gain his attention. 

“Astarion—“

“Do you mean it?”

Your mouth twitches when he turns, looking at you with angry eyes. Scanning you with knitted brows filled with so much frustration all you can do is breathe and nod.

“Why?”

Because I love you. 

“Because…”

“Tell me.”

Your mouth is drier than it’s ever been, making it hard for you to form the words as you feel your tongue poke out to wet your lips. “I—“

His shoulder shifts from your grasp in one quick motion, leaving you bare —untethered and weak against the aggression of his eyes staring you down. “You know, I’ve spent centuries coming up with all the ways I’d do it. How I’d kill him if given the chance.”

You watch his gaze move to the trees again, travelling elsewhere even though you’re here, standing still in front of him, already wondering how you'll get him back.

“Despite the scenarios being nothing but my foolish imagination running rampant, every time I end up suffering. Forced further into madness —pushed to the brink of what my body is capable of handling.” He shakes his head before raising it, blinking back tears that make your body ache. “Even in my wildest dreams I cannot win against his torment and yet… the moment you mention it… the moment you look at me with those eyes—” 

Hearing him choke back a nervous laugh, this time it’s you who’s on him, clutching his face with both hands, pressing your thumbs to the inner corners of his eyes to wipe away the liquid that continues to pool.

“Why are you so willing to help me do the unimaginable?”

This time there’s no hesitation. No moment of thought that graces your mind as you smile up at him, pulling him further down with shaking hands to press your forehead to his. “It’s because I love you,” you tell him then. Barely above a whisper, you let it filter out like smoke, allowing it to envelop him entirely as you breathe and take him in, watching the way his lips unfurl and the anger laced within his features slips away. “And because the thought of allowing him to live after what he did to you fills me with a kind of rage I’m not sure I’ve ever felt before.”

His hand moves to stroke the side of your neck. Gently, his fingers run across the bite marks he's inflicted, marking their positions with two subtle taps before they glide away, rooting themselves at the back of your head for support. Forcing you to remain in the moment, realizing what you’ve just said.

It’s hardly the right time to admit your feelings. But then again, given the circumstances, you quickly remember that there really isn’t one. Considering you're in the middle of a war, on your way to Ketheric’s base, it’s very unlikely you’ll have a spare moment to clear your mind and properly say all the things you’ve been itching to say. 

Until the end, it’ll always feel like something’s missing —like you’ve forgotten an important phrase or detail. That whatever you say will never be enough to fully convey the weight of how he makes you feel each time he looks you up and down or makes you laugh. 

Even as you stand before him now, holding him tight —watching the tears within his eyes threaten to spill once again, you know nothing you say will ever amount to the ache inside your chest, knowing that you’ve managed to give him the last sliver of hope you have to offer. 

“I love you, Astarion,” you repeat then, praying this time it holds its weight. That the nervous rush inside your stomach passes through and all you’re left with is the kind of warmth you’ve only read about in stories.

His jaw is slack as you repeat your confession, shifting in a way that makes you more nervous than it should, watching him blink and hearing him breathe —doing everything but speak the words you want to hear as Shadowheart calls your name, pulling you both away to notice the annoyed look on her face as she tells you to hurry up. 

-

TAGLIST:

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[sadsock]

thoughts on the bear after season 3 has marinated a bit

now that it’s been a week, there is no doubt in my mind that clairecarmy are not endgame. sydcarmy may not be either (at least in season 4) but it’s not gonna be claire. I think the babysitter comment was intentionally placed to contrast with what the faks say to claire about taking care of carmy. the writers know what not to do and they won’t do it. I trust them to understand that a romance can’t be the answer to carmy’s trauma and pain. it’s love and connection, yes. but his relationship with claire simply did not offer that in a substantial way and they know it. her purpose was to highlight his issues and just what he needs to work on when it comes to relationships and personal growth.

him getting stuck on thoughts about her is bc he’s so painfully aware of this. he knows he messed up badly and knows he keeps messing up all his relationships this season, and he can’t forgive himself for it. so instead he replays every moment with her almost as form of self-punishment (note how anxious it makes him). it reaffirmed everything he feared about himself not being built for normal relationships like normal people, and he spiraled. he is stuck in a self-loathing loop and only knows to drown it out by obsessing over work and being a perfectionist (hence perpetuating the abuse inflicted on him by donna and EMP chef).

not to mention all the promo for the show, claire is barely shown in clips or even the actress molly. and we rarely see her character interact with the other main characters on the show either. this is simply not how you treat the endgame people.

I think carmy’s next arc will be about him forgiving himself, cleanly breaking things off with claire, talking to his mom, and mending his relationships with a focus on richie and sydney. I imagine he will have important scenes with nat and the baby too to represent a new chapter for the berzattos. it will be about him reconnecting with himself and the people he loves, giving himself a chance to experience a softer and kinder mindset. since sydney represents focus on the present and hope for the future (the best meal and all the talk about legacy and family trees), I expect the season will end by showing where they are in their relationship, both professionally and personally.

this is why I wish for a season 5 or second part of season 3 before season 4. so we can have enough time to watch carmy settling into a healing mindset and a renewed outlook on his life and passions (cooking and art perhaps?), as well as meaningful character arcs for sydney and the main crew. all in all, I think this season was important to show carmy just how bleak the world is when he chooses to be so destructive and shunning all the light in his life.

[treedaddymcpuffpuff]

Hi, I love your writing! I'm not sure if you are doing the erotic horror prompts anymore but if you are, then may I request a Prompt 9 OR 34 with John Wick?

Hi, thank you so much, Anonymous. It means the fucking world to me!!! Allow me to express my gratitude with some predator/prey:

(I know these are supposed to be horror, but I keep turning them into fluff. Please forgive me🥺❤️)

“So, the first rule of self defense is run,” John says, giving her a heavy, doubtful side eye that speaks volumes about his faith in her to do so. 

“Second?” She asks, arms crossed, foot tapping, watching him stalk circles around her like he’s going to drop her at any moment - her heart patters wildly every time she sees his step slow or his eyes move to a vulnerable part of her body, even though she knows that whatever “tells” he exhibits are actually fakeouts and dead ends. Just a way to get her nerves worked up so that she’s taking him seriously.

He stops in front of her, places a finger in the center of her chest, and she knows he could give a little push and she’d be flat on her ass.

But he doesn’t. He smiles. “Hide.”

She rolls her eyes. “The third?” 

“Fight. And -“ he moves his finger against her bare skin, drawing her eyes and attention, then flicks her lightly on the forehead as punishment for falling for it. “Don’t roll your eyes at your superior.”

She rubs the pink mark. “Ow,” she tells him, even though the trick only stung a tiny bit. 

“Now say, “yes, master.”” His eyes light with mischief. 

Every piece of her fucked, masochist body wants to fight him on that if only to earn more brutality for it. But this is supposed to be critical training, even though her trainer isn’t taking it as such.

She figures that she’ll be the determined one, for once, so she tips her head, straightens her shoulders, and says, “yes, master.”

His eyebrow raises behind untamed bangs. “Good.”

“Did you take that from a job orientation class?” She asks him.

“What?”

“At jobs, they use the ‘run, hide, fight’ for active shooters.”

He shakes his head no, but it’s so hard to tell when and if he’s fucking with her…

“Have you ever had a normal job?” She wonders aloud. 

He shrugs. “Then you already have the basics down. Excellent.” He continues circling. “Start small,” he says. “Then, work your way up.” 

She nods, although annoyed with being ignored, continue.

“So, we start with running.” 

She cringes. The mere thought of him watching her run laps is painfully embarrassing. 

Wanting to impress and not kill this before it even gets started, she keeps her mouth shut. 

“I’ll give you a minute head start.” 

Wait, what did he say?

She almost laughs. “We’re racing?”

His grin is worrying. “No, I’m chasing you.” 

In that case, she wants to ask for at least a five minute head start; eyes his thick, long legs. The taut muscle is visible shifting and tensing, even under his baggy sweatpants.  

“You’re going to catch me,” she tells him, wanting to argue about this being unfair. 

“Then you’d better start running,” he replies, flipping his wrist over to check the ticking time. 

“What - where am I allowed to go?” Cool sweat collects at the nape of her neck. 

“Anywhere.” He’s still looking at his watch, waiting patiently. 

“When are we starting?” 

His eyes flit up, glint at her, then focus back on the dwindling time. “Five seconds ago.”

Prickling anticipation drives her to argue. “How is that going to help me? Just running all day so you can keep catching me? Pretty soon I’ll get tired and will just give up and let you catch me.” 

“Oh, that’s what I forgot to mention,” John murmurs.

Anger anxiety cocktail spikes. Forgot to mention? There’s a lot of shit that he’s conveniently forgetting to mention.

“If I catch you, I tickle you.” His grin grows into a sharp-bladed tip.

“John,” she says, voice worried, which delights him. “That is not fair. You’re going to catch me and you can’t just tickle me all day when you do.” 

He’s a reasonable man. He’ll see her issue. She’s valid in her concerns, and they both know it. 

“Yes I can.” 

“Are you serious?!” 

“Uh huh.” He taps his watch face. “Thirty seconds.” 

Her shoes slip on the cushiony matts, landing her on her knees before she can start bolting.

He resists the urge to go to her. Thankfully, she’s not down for long, or else his concern would get the better of him. 

She stands and runs. Up the stairs, already panting and sweating, adrenaline an ache that builds higher the farther away she gets from him. 

Out the door of the gym, down the hallway, trying not to fall again and losing precious time because of it.

She’s in the cold before she knows what she’s doing. Her t-shirt does nothing to cover her from the frost, but fear and physical exertion help her stay warm. 

Down the left block, then ducking through an alleyway, wondering if he’s on her tail by now. 

Blessedly, there’s no snow on the ground, so she’s not leaving any footprints. Also, that means she can go faster and not have to worry about falling. 

She rushes a corner and almost takes out an older man walking his dog, so, of course, she has to stop and profusely apologize.

“It’s fine, dear,” he chuckles.

She pats his friendly Labrador on the head. “Are you sure?” She looks him over, and he seems okay. Her memory says she ran smack dab into his frail frame, but maybe it’s just her psychosis acting up again. 

“I’m alright, dear, where is your coat? Your skin is ice cold.”

“Oh, I left it at home, just going for a jog,” she replies, trying to be casual. 

His fluffy dog pushes a wet nose into her hand and nuzzles her out of more attention.

“This is Sam,” the older man introduces. “He is very friendly.”

“He’s amazing,” she says, using both hands to stroke blonde, cold fur. 

“Are you training for a marathon?” The man asks. “I hear there’s a big one by Macy’s next week.” 

“No. Just exercising.” She smiles up at him, wondering how to politely break this conversation off and save her own ass. 

Behind him, about half a block down, is her pursuer and teacher.

It would be better if he looked disappointed. So, so much better. 

Her hand stills on Sam’s head. 

That expression would be a glare if his mouth wasn’t pulled up at the seams. His eyes of brilliant brown are blown black. Like a shark. No, too intentional to be a shark - it isn’t pure hunger that drives him. 

Gotcha.

Fear is the only thing she’s capable of feeling for a couple of seconds as she forgets what, exactly, is going on while an instinctual and ancient part of her remembers what it’s like to be hunted.

She’s going to feel really bad, later, about turning away from a nice man and his dog without so much as a goodbye and sprinting the opposite direction.

That trepidation just coils tighter the more she runs. She wasn’t built for this. Her legs are too short, her body too pillowy to gain any sort of momentum, her lungs too small for the air required in running. 

It’s nothing but luck and adrenaline carrying her down crossroads and alleys. 

She spares a glance behind her, and almost feels like she’s winning when she doesn’t see John. 

It’s because he’s in front of her. 

At the end of the gravelly side street, lounging lazily on the wall. 

Michael fucking Meyers, that’s what this reminds her of. You never see him moving, but somehow he’s always catching up to you. 

She almost falls again when turning around to dash the other way, but manages to keep a shaky, vertical grip on earth.

John surpasses her, the easy stride of his legs infuriating, and plants himself in her path so that she runs smack into his chest. 

There’s no time to get away. He already has her biceps gripped tight. 

She winces, writhes, glower resembling more of a pout. 

“When you run,” he says, kissing her head with a soft mouth that contradicts his hard grip. “You zigzag. Go every direction. Never in a straight line. Never predictably. You have to not think about where you’re going, but focus wholly on your destination.”

“Helpful tips that I should have known earlier?” She tries, grinning dryly.

He chuckles. “If I just tell you, you won’t learn. Which reminds me: Let’s take you home and get you warm. I owe you some merciless tickling, don’t I?”

“I was hoping you’d forget,” she groans. “Second chance?” 

“You’ll get plenty of chances,” he assures, leading her back to where she came with a big arm wrapped around her shoulders to keep her warm.

[legobiwan]

Another story idea:

One of the - and I hesitate to call them "issues" as I think the series is pretty complete on its own - but one of the loose threads from the end of Gravity Falls Season 2 I'd like to tug at is the ease with which Ford finds redemption after his return to his dimension.

On the surface, it seems like the only person he needs to work to reconcile with is his brother, with whom he can barely share a civilized conversation with until after the zodiac is broken and the elder Pines twins are left seemingly helpless in Bill's improvised prison.

And yes, Ford gets the kick in the ass he needs after his brother's memory is erased (at his own hand), as he realizes at that juncture just how much his hubris has cost him (even if he hadn't consciously valued the relationship with his brother before, there have been steady hints throughout the series and books that Ford values Stan in some way, even if he's shit at showing it).

But it's all...rather easy.

McGucket asserts that he's done forgetting and ready to forgive, even though he was probably the biggest victim to Ford's actions and ego throughout the entire series. (There was another post I saw around here about "hurt people hurt people." Bill may have been awful to Ford, but Ford was almost equally as awful to Fiddleford).

Give me a story where McGucket starts to gain back those memories - of his anxiety and panic and near-slavish devotion to a man who barely gave him the time of day. Give me a Fiddleford who won't take Ford back after this all comes back to light, who finally grows a spine and cuts ties with someone who mistreated him for years.

Give me a story where Mabel is outwardly enthusiastic towards Ford, but also afraid. Afraid that she's not enough for him, that she can't be her brother, that Ford will look down on her. Give me Mabel acting out in her most-Mabelest ways to try to both win over Ford and smooth out the relationship between him and Stan (and knowing she's a child coming from an unsettled home life, this hits all the worse).

Give me a story where Dipper realizes the truth of the old quote, "never meet your heroes." Where he finally come to terms with the fact that Ford is just a person - and a very flawed person, at that. A person who nearly sold the world for his ego and worse yet, held his grunkle and sister with little regard, held Dipper's own future with little regard except how it would benefit Ford.

And yes, finally, give me a story where Stan and Ford have the seriously hash things out. Where they ned to come to terms with their trauma from their youth (and the one thing I can't blame Ford for is what happened with the science fair project. Stan shouldn't have been there and he knew better. Stan also knew he was less than second banana to his brother his entire life, and his father made no bones about showing it. Say what you will, but an almost-18-year-old Ford was never going to react well to that situation, nor would he totally understand the consequences of Filbrick kicking Stan out at that age. Stan was also horrifically co-dependent on his brother, something his parents should have helped to sort out way earlier). Stan needs to sort his issues with both his (now-assumedly-dead) parents, as does Ford. Ford needs to come clean as to the who, what, where and why of Oregon. And Stan needs a reason to live for himself, and not for others - especially not his brother, from whom he has an almost desperate need for affection. (And you have to wonder, after 30 years...now that he's gotten Ford back, is there some kind of pit that's opened up in Stan, some raison d'être that's vanished leaving him uncertain as to everything in life, even with Ford vowing change and ships and adventures from his end. That's got to be one hell of a whiplash).

Anyway, what I'm saying is I love Ford but there's a ton he has to reckon with, and worst off, he has to reckon with other people if he truly wants to change. (And oh no, can I think of another two-dimensional being who may be going through the same thing in a time-warped psychiatric institution, hmmm, I wonder...)

[hater-reads]

The guy I fought with in a game is my neighbor - Chapter 2

A week after sending his complaint, Geto searched GojoSweetCupcake on YouTube. Only a few videos about cupcakes showed up.

No more results.

I did it, I really did it. Geto thought. They closed his channel because of Geto.

“Manager…”

“I know. I saw it.”

“No but…Manager Geto…that guy is really mad.”

“Haibara, are you his fan?”

“I-I watch him on Twitch. Sometimes. A lot…”

“Ah…why didn't you say anything?”

“I'm doing it now, Manager. Could you do something about it?”

“What can I do?”

“Maybe… apologize?”

“No way.”

Haibara lowered his head and walked away, like a scolded puppy. Geto felt like he had snatched a toy from a child's hand.

What was so great about this guy anyway? He was good at playing, but a piece of shit on the inside. No. Geto had to stop thinking this way. He did what was right by reporting his channel, now he had to move on from this. 

But curiosity kicked in. 

“Do you guys see this garbage can? Exactly, that’s our precious guy SShadowMaster123. You won't believe how fucking pissed I am right now. I wish I could beat the crap out of this guy until he asks me for mercy. Show yourself dear Shadow, I’ll be fucking waiting for you!”

Ugh… this guy was obsessed. It was a livestream with more than 20,000 people, and this guy was just spouting nonsense. Geto thought that things would come to an end, but just seeing that masked guy talk shit about him was something that stressed him to a whole new level. And more than that, he realized why Haibara wanted him to apologize. His somehow idol, was bad mouthing his own boss. How humiliating.

Even if he was an internet user that no one knew anything about, two people knew of his existence in real life. His two most trusted subordinates and friends. How could he face them if he didn't resolve this situation quickly?

“You know guys, EpicGames tells you when someone hasn't logged in. And that guy hasn't appeared since our fight. Think he’s scared?”

SShadowMaster123 : Stop this nonsense. Do you want to lose your Twitch account too?

The live comments started to go crazy, all excited and laughing at the presence of Geto, well, the presence of the anonymous user. The masked guy approached the screen and began to read the comments.

“Huh? He’s here? How shameless!”

The guy started to laugh. Almost as if he was going crazy. Geto saw his blue eyes and dilated pupils and thought, yes, he’s crazy. 

SShadowMaster123: I  don't want to be associated with you anymore, so I ask you to stop. If you behave yourself, I may even forgive you.

“FORGIVE ME?! YOU ARE THE ONE WHO TOOK DOWN MY CHANNEL! YOU SHIT!”

Strangely, this guy had a nice voice, if he wasn't screaming all the time, Geto probably would have seen him in his free time. Nevertheless, he still resented him.

“You know, dear Shadow, I don’t want your apology, meet me. We will handle this like gentlemen. Send me your location and I'll come get you. It doesn't matter if you live in another part of the world, I'll come get you.”

Geez, this guy was out of his mind. Geto even felt a little shiver run down his spine. He decided that the right thing to do was to stay away and if possible, change his username on all social media. Of course he could do that, but before he could make the change, all of his accounts were filled with hate messages.

He didn't care, but his cell phone vibrating every second, even in a meeting, was starting to cause him problems. He was going to delete all of it, until he saw a message from a verified account with the name Gojo. That guy. 

GojoSweetCupcake: C’mon dear, meet me. Let’s have a chat.

Is this a fucking joke? Why the hell is he hitting on me now? Geto thought. 

[fromtenthousandfeet]

Is the love and support for Jimin deep, but not wide? Did we succeed in growing his fanbase, or did we just get smarter? We were told to get Apple, which I did. I learned to properly stream Spotify and YouTube, which I do. I bought different versions of his album, which I don't need.

But what is the point of all these charts and wins and firsts? I'm not interested in a pissing contest with other K-pop groups, other BTS members, or Billie or Harry or Jade, or anyone else.

I would like to enjoy Jimin's music in the way I can enjoy the music of any other popular and successful artist. To walk into a store and hear Like Crazy playing. To turn on the car radio and start singing along to Who. Ah, serendipity!

Why is this too much to ask? Why won't they put him on the radio? How is he supposed to reach the GP if nobody hears him?

I'm tired of doing Hybe's work for them. I'm tired of enriching the pockets of these assholes only for them to mock and sneer at us. BTS is the cash cow, but so are we.

One line I haven't crossed: buying anything from a BTS store. Have never, will never.

And as for now, I will keep streaming--as pointless as it may feel--but I'm not buying any more albums. Enough. Basta!

Forgive my rant. I pretty much freaking worship Jimin, but I'm just so fed up with this Hybe/Geffen B.S.

Talk me down, please.

Hmm. Are you reading my mind?!?

I'm not sure if I'll be able to successfully talk you down, but I'll try.

First, let me start off by saying that I am in no way an expert on Korean culture and I'm basing what I'm about to say on watching an obscene amount of K-dramas (embarrassing but true) and newspaper articles I've read about the Korean educational system. Broad generalization - Koreans are obsessed with rankings to an extremely unhealthy degree.

BTS didn't just export K-pop to the rest of the world, they seemed to have exported the obsession with charts, superlatives, placements, accolades, accomplishments. I don't blame BTS per se, but more the fandom who have made it their life's work to make sure BTS always did well on music charts and music competitions. I see that it's both a labor of love and a means of expressing support to the group, but at what cost? And who really cares? All that stuff takes the focus away from supporting good music for good music's sake. And as long as the focus is on chart placement above all else, the general public will continue to view K-pop as fraudulent.

What's the point of literally billions of streams of songs that never make it to human ears? What's the point of albums sold that end up in landfills? And it's almost an insult to the artists who make the music. Can you imagine knowing your fans aren't even listening to your music, they just feel obligated to buy it, or worse, do it to compete with other K-pop acts. Yes, initially this effort was a way to bring attention to BTS outside of Korea when the industry ignored their existence, but at this point, the streaming culture and obsession with charts is a mental illness.

So who has the courage to say no more? What will it take to collectively agree that Jimin lovers will enjoy his music and his amazing performances and stop stressing themselves out over charts and awards? I don't know, but I do know that Jungkook's fake accomplishments are like fuel the fire in this situation. PJMs, wounded from the incessant gaslighting from the company and JJKs alike, aren't going to stop trying to prove reality anytime soon. Everyone needs therapy!

I do have a suggestion, though, and that is to focus all our efforts on getting radio for WHO. I think this is infinitely more important than mass streaming and buying. You are right that the Jimin fandom is deep, and while wide, it's not wide enough to accomplish what all the scolds on Twitter we do. There are a finite number of people who have both the will and means to stream incessantly. And the number of buyers will dry up. As my mother used to say, you can't get blood from a turnip.

Fans' money and labor is better spent getting the word out to the general public about Jimin's insane talent. He's met us half way with a song that appeals to the general pop music-consuming public. He's given us a compelling music video. It absolutely sucks that the onus to market him falls upon his fandom, but it is what it is. The powers that be at HYBE are definitely afraid of the success he would achieve with just the basic promo package.

Radio play means fans won't have to work so hard for charting and won't have to buy so much. But most of all, as more regular people recognize and compliment JImin's talents, the more confident PJMs will become. As it stands now, his fanbase is altogether too insecure. (Did none of you grow up with an older brother who teased you relentlessly? Was I the only one? Don't take the bait!)

So, what to do to get that garbage company to give Jimin radio? I hate that it already feels like we've lost too much momentum, but let's not give up. How many fans live in Los Angeles?! HYBE America's office is located at 2110 Colorado Ave STE 200, Santa Monica, CA 90404-3763. Any PJMs up for a little protest outside their office? Santa Monica is lovely. Maybe hit the beach afterwards? Trucks parked outside of HYBE headquarters? Tagging the songwriters and producers from WHO? Using shame and public humiliation seem to be the only tools in our toolkit. Twitter/X is pretty much useless these days.

Anon, I've been doing what you've been doing. I even bought from the BTS store, despite my better judgement. I agree with you, though. Enough is enough. Basta!

We are only two people, but change has to start somewhere. Let's encourage others to celebrate Jimin's artistry and accomplishments and stop playing the K-pop numbers game.

[moriartyluver]

Hiii! I saw your post about having William’s kid after his fake death and I wanted to request something similar to that if you don’t mind, angst with comfort of Liam coming back from his “death” but when he tries to find his wife he literally can’t find her anywhere and when he asks his brothers about it they tell him that after she found out he “died” she became really mentally unstable for the whole pregnancy and after she gave birth she moved to her manor in the countryside and rarely ever came to the city and she always seemed upset when she did

A/N: thank you for the request! I’m not very creative so it may still be a bit too similar to the original oneshot but I’ll try my best!

Characters: William James Moriarty x Fem! Reader

Prompt: William coming back after his fake suicide to find his wife had almost disappeared completely off the face of the earth.

Genre: angst to comfort

Format: oneshot

Warning: mentions of suicide, mentions of post natal depression. NOT PRROF READ

William glanced around the room.

“Where is she…?” By ‘she’ he was referring to his wife, you, who was nowhere to be seen. Above all, he was probably most excited about seeing you when he had returned.

“..William..” Louis muttered his name, contemplating how he should tell his brother of what had occurred whilst he had disappeared.

William’s mind had gone to the worst possible scenarios, although he tried to remain calm and rational. Had you moved on and married another man who was more suited to you, or worse, had you..died?

“She’s alright, I suppose,” James inputted, trying to not escalate the situation. “We just..”

“She’s gone..” Louis continued. “She’s alive and hopefully well, but from what we’ve seen, Lady (name) left,”

“Why did she..-?” William already knew the answer though, he was a smart guy after all. He knew that you wouldn’t want to stick around after he supposedly died. It hurt, yes, but he understood.

At first, he had originally asked Sherlock to look for you so he could see you first, but after they both weren’t able to track your whereabouts, William had decided on seeing his brothers first. Hopefully, you were with them.

But once he had entered the room without you seen anywhere, he felt a wave of guilt wash over him. He had driven you to the extent of leaving those who you were closest to. Liam wasn’t ever going to forgive himself.

The room was silent. There was undeniable tension. On one end was Albert and William who were confused as to where you had gone, and then Louis and the rest of MI6 who wanted to tell William in the nicest way possible.

“The last time we saw her was nearly a year ago…” Fred commented. He paused, trying to look for the right words. “As far as we were aware then..she had gone to stay in her manor in the countryside…”

Louis glanced over to Fred, as if questioning whether he was going to continue. Louis knew he couldn’t bring himself to do so, and so he hoped that one of the other could. Fred opened his mouth to speak again, fiddling with his scarf.

“…with her son.”

William’s scarlet eyes widened. He had a son? Was this his son? He had hoped so. William knew he was being selfish, to some extent, but he couldn’t bare the thought of you moving on. Whilst he was gone, he had a whole breakdown to Sherlock when he had asked liam how he felt about leaving you behind. He didn’t want you to move on, and it was the most selfish that william had ever felt.

“…a son..?” The suppose was evident on his face. From a man who always expected everything, he finally had cracked, and experienced surprise.

Once the awkward reunion was over, he had informed Sherlock of this who helped liam find where you were staying. The manor was one you had recently bought, after William’s death. It would have been easier to find you if it wasn’t but alas, you had managed to isolate yourself from the entire world and only stayed with your son.

From what they had gathered, you had went to stay in the countryside after William’s supposed death, and had only visited your friends once in a blue moon. It wasn’t illogical to assume that this was all for the sake of your child, after all, he was the son of the Lord of crime, and although Albert and mycroft pulled a few strings to make it out that you were completely innocent and had no involved in the killings of nobles, your son wasn’t going to have the privilege of being as safe.

So now, there William had stood outside your new manor. He was hesitant to knock on the door and see you for the first time in three years. The professor had stood alone. Nobody else was with him to help ease you into the reunion between yourself and your husband, which had now seemed like a foolish decision.

He lifted his curled fist to the door. There were very few lights on in the house and no signs of human activity for miles.

Knock

Nothing.

He tried again.

Knock, Knock.

Footsteps approached the door. He could hear the faint sounds of a child blabbering. It was as if the manor had come alive. The pacing of what he had assumed were your feet was slow, as if you had no energy to walk quicker.

The door swung open slowly to reveal you stood in front of the blond. Your hair was disheveled and your eyes were tired. Your posture was lazy and your eyes were baggy. Whatever had happened to you to make you look so exhausted hadn’t mattered now. You were there and as beautiful as the day he had left you. That was all he saw.

You rubbed your eyes tiredly, failing to realise who was in front of you. Smaller and quicker footsteps had approached your behind. Your son had managed to quickly walk over to you despite being so young and hugged your leg for support.

Once your eyes had flustered open, that’s when you saw him, and you could have sworn your souls had leapt out of your body.

“W-William..?!” Your voice was low and quiet, even though you had exclaimed his name. Had you not talked to anyone in so long that your own voice had begun to disappear?

You fell to the ground, your son moving away as you knelt in front of your husband, the man who you had previously known to be dead.

You couldn’t believe your eyes. After spiralling into a deep depression following both the ‘death’ of your husband and the birth of your son, you genuinely thought you had gone mad and hallucinated his existence.

“It can’t be…” you muttered as you looked down at the ground on your porch “You’re really here..william..?”

He knelt down to face you on equal ground, his soft fingers making their way underneath your chin as he made you face him. “I’m here..it’s really me..”

Tears began to fall from your eyes as your lips parted, releasing a few sobs. Your husband held you close in a tight embrace while you cried into his chest. You spoke of how much you had missed him through tears as he rubbed your back, reassuring you of his return.

Your son waddled over to his parents, blabbering a few noises as he tried to ask both why his mother was crying and who this strange man at the doorstep was.

William pulled away from you, caressing your cheek before planting a soft kiss onto it, then scooping your son in his arms as he helped you stand up once more.

“I’m here..now and forever..”

[mdhwrites]

Do you think, in fiction, characters can cross a line where it's stupid or wrong for their friend to forgive them, no matter how sincerely remorseful they are?

Yes... But it's complicated.

I know, shocking answer from me of all people. /s

Anyone who wants to say "If you do X, your character is irredeemable" is lying to you. There is no steadfast line because the circumstances for every story and every character is going to be different. If you show yourself to be a ruthless murderer to Batman, he'll disavow you forever, at least in theory. Do it with the Punisher? So long as you kill the right people, you're a brother in arms. Destroy an entire star system? Well what were the circumstances, such as potentially research being warped, ends justify the means, etc. like that.

To list specific acts is to pigeon hole stories in a way that isn't fun, useful or even all that interesting because you're trying to apply our real world to a fictional world without any consideration for its rules and logic which is just, bluntly, boring. So that begs the question: Do I have advice on this matter? Well, I do actually and it comes back to the example I gave earlier.

When you take a life, you risk creating another Batman. That is why Batman doesn't kill because his goal is to make sure no young boy suddenly loses his parents ever again. You have gone against everything he stands for... And so that's it. You can be on the same side as Batman but you cannot be Batman's friend while being a killer. I know you can bring up a lot of stuff in the comics but this is true 90% of the time and I think we can all agree with that. There is almost no amount of sorrow, or saying it was 'what had to be done' that can get around the fact that you have fundamentally offended him as a person and warped how he will ever be able to perceive you...

...Which is actually how lost friendships work in the real world. You can be friends with a criminal. You can know someone does awful things. If you still see them as your bro though, it's going to be hard for you to want to let go of someone you're already close to. We like the bonds we are familiar with and grow attached to. As such, to lose a friend, you have to fundamentally see them differently. To believe there is no reason to keep them around. Otherwise, that attachment may linger, much like how hard it can be to entirely quit an ex because you yearn for the good times, despite the bad times, because you brought them in so close as to have a label that meant so much to you at some point.

I cite Luz from The Owl House abandoning her friends to death a lot because of this element. Luz is seen as the one they can rely on, as the one they can trust, as the one who will be there for them to the very end. That even if she wrongs her friends, she would do her best to make up for it like she always has. Then she decides to not just leave them to die while keeping her safe. Not just dooms an entire world. She does so while claiming it's because she just feels so guilty about a mistake she made that she refuses to even try and fix it.

If she had ever told her friends... How do you handle that? How do you handle your friend telling you that everything you thought they were was a lie? How do you look at them the same way ever again, let alone her girlfriend amongst that group who has to deal with the fact that Luz didn't even consult with her about this matter. Just one day Luz was gonna go bye as an entire universe separated them and she would be left abandoned, alone and betrayed, everything Luz symbolized no longer being what her life had to be. How do you ever recover that relationship? How do you ever allow that sort of trust again?

This is why in media when characters have big fallouts, you'll often hear, "Oh come on, I do this all the time!" rebuttled with, "No! This is different! Look at what you did? How could you have done this? Sure, you're an asshole but I always thought you cared at least a little! I guess I was wrong." Because in that moment, the character cannot see their friend the same way. Something has fundamentally changed about their relationship and so even if they make up, their relationship is going to have to be different from what it was before. Otherwise, all you're doing is reminding the person of all the scars you've left on them.

Because the only fix to change is change, but sometimes there's no way to prove you won't become the person who hurt them in the first place. Sometimes that trust can never be recovered. But how that works will be specific to each character in a narrative because each of them should have a different view on the matter. Otherwise they're one homogeneous blob and just like how that's uncomplicated, it's also pretty boring and that's always the worst sin you can commit with a story. See you next tale.

======+++++======

I have a public Discord for any and all who want to join!

I also have an Amazon page for all of my original works in various forms of character focused romances from cute, teenage romance to erotica series of my past. I have an Ao3 for my fanfiction projects as well if that catches your fancy instead. If you want to hang out with me, I stream from time to time and love to chat with chat.

A Twitter you can follow too

And a Kofi if you like what I do and want to help out with the fact that disability doesn’t pay much.

[emmy-dekarios-bg3]

Heart of the Weave - chapter 43

I woke up the following morning to the sound of Karlach shouting “HELLO?!” outside our front door, which is more than enough to startle the hells out of me. Damn, it’s already morning? I turn to face Gale, who is smiling at me in admiration and gazing at me with his sleepy eyes.

“Are you ready to get this all over with?” he questions, and suddenly a sense of dread flows through my immortal veins. I inhale as I close my eyes, then exhale the tension built up inside me. We need to save Rolan. He needs our help. The thought of him losing his life because of me aches me in a way I can’t describe, and I wish they would’ve found another way to convince me to come.

“Yes. We need to leave. The quicker, the better. We can’t allow anything to happen to Rolan.” Part of me is wondering what would happen if Gortash does end up spotting us somehow, and what he would say to me. I’d at least want some sort of apology or explanation from him, not that I’d forgive the manipulative bastard. I don’t think I could ever forgive him.

“Alright, Jenevelle. Are you ready for your first adventure? Though…I feel very negative about the entire journey,” I mumble as I button up her onesie. “It will be alright. You’re here with momma and daddy, and we won’t let anyone touch you.” I pick her up and hold her close, burping her before placing her in her stroller.

“Tara, don’t cause any trouble around the house please,” Gale alerts her. “There will be consequences.”

“Why Gale, I’d never!” He opens up the front door, letting me out first before shutting it behind him. I inhale the morning air that smells of lemongrass and lavender, which tempts me to bake a pie; I’m guilty of spoiling Gale with my desserts. The soothing sound of the chimes above our door also helps keep me at ease, even just mildly. The refreshing area of Waterdeep makes it easy to forget that I’m about to go on an adventure with a mysterious outcome.

“I tried telling Karlach you guys have a baby, so you’d be taking your time. Unfortunately, she doesn’t quite understand that patience is a virtue,” Wyll teases. “I love her anyway.”

“Well, yeah. True. My husband calling me out like it means nothing, pssssht. Get a load of this guy. Anyway! How’s my favorite baby in the world? Sssh, Don’t tell Shadowheart and Astarion I said that.” She leans in to look at Jenevelle and plays with her tiny hands, causing our baby to smile with pure joy. Despite the horrors, looking at our baby smile does help; as long as she’s happy, I’ll be okay.

“We’re outside and that’s good enough for her. The glistening sun warming her baby skin, the sound of birds singing, the exquisite and various aromas of the forests,” Gale says, smiling down at Jenevelle.

“Ha! Can’t say I blame her,” Halsin responds, his face lighting up. “She has great taste.”

It’s rather early in the morning, so hopefully we can make it to Moonrise without having to camp, though we will need to make a few stops to eat and attend to our daughter’s needs. Off we go, strolling upon the road that will lead us to a fate we aren’t sure of, but hoping we save Rolan in the process. Today I’ll make a choice that will rid my life of the evil that’s been stuck to me like a parasite; at least it’s not a damn illithid tadpole.

I’m so on edge, believing Fanden has his bloodthirsty eyes on us wherever we go. As I imagine him, Gortash, and Ketheric, I feel an unusual tingling sensation within me that I’m not familiar with, almost like an urge or a strange power building up inside my body. Is this the same peculiar feeling Gale had when he released his power at the Bhaal temple?

It’s been so long since I’ve been adventuring, I almost forgot what it even felt like and it’s more strange as a druid. I love nature, but am I really dedicated enough to be a druid? Once this is all over, I may pursue my dreams as a bard and perform at the local circus. Hells, maybe play at a few restaurants around town.

After roughly five miles, we stop to eat and so I may feed Jenevelle, who is starting to become just a little fussy. I sit down on a nearby log to feed her a bottle while our friends get the campfire going for lunch.

“You know, on the bright side, I’ll get to destroy Gortash for the second time. Nothing like kicking someone’s ass and handing them a plate of karma, served by Karlach Cliffgate.” I’m honestly looking forward to her handing it straight with him, but hopefully Ketheric won’t be a huge problem.

As we sit down to eat, I feel yet again another unsettling presence, but can’t seem to locate it anywhere no matter how hard I try to investigate the area around us. Sigh. Karlach and Wyll sit across from me, while Halsin is out somewhere picking some fruits and vegetables to roast on the fire. Gale sits down next to me and gently takes Jenevelle from my arms.

“My love, go ahead and eat. I’ll change the baby and hold her while you do so,” he says ever so sweetly, being his wonderful and considerate self as usual.

“Also, mate, are you doing alright? You’re awfully quiet.” Karlach’s right; I really haven’t said much this entire time, but I was hoping no one would notice. I smile nervously, trying to mask my anxiousness but I don’t think anyone is buying it.

“Of course, I’m just ready for it all to be over.”

“And it will be soon enough. When it’s all done and in the past, we will all enjoy life again. We just have to stay positive and assume Gortash, Ketheric, and Fanden can’t come back from their graves,” Wyll assures me. “Didn’t one of them mention Orin couldn’t come back because she was much weaker after being resurrected? I’m sure that applies to Ketheric and Gortash as well.”

“I’m almost certain Bane and Myrkul won’t give those bastards a third chance. Fanden on the other hand, well, that’s uncertain,” I mutter. Gale sits back down next to me, holding our now happy baby who is fully fed, cleaned, and ready to party. I stare down at my sandwich and sigh, forcing myself to eat. “Also, I keep thinking Fanden has his eyes on us somehow; he is sneaky as hell after all. I could be overthinking it.”

“Now that you mention it, we probably should have some sort of backup plan in case all-else fails,” Halsin mentions, and boy I didn’t think of that. I lack in the intelligence department. He’s right. Should the situation arise that I do come face-to-face with my father, I need to make sure he stays the hell away from Jenevelle.

“Gale, my love –”

“Oh no, you aren’t thinking of confronting him if our plan fails, are you?” Worry stirs in his voice like a spoon with a cup of tea. “He wants your immortality and if he takes you, I’m not sure how far we’ll get. I’m not sure how we can save you. I can fight them, but Jenevelle would be with our mortal friends, and it just… It could end badly. They want either you or her. Or both.”

“Gale, honey, I need you to stay back with Jenevelle. I don’t want to say out loud what my plan is in case we’re being spied on, but…trust me. Please.” His dreary brown eyes are filled with fear, pleading that I don’t do anything rash. As I gaze into those eyes, I feel the intense power again continuously getting stronger, which could be our savior through this dire predicament.

[killmongerskeepermain]

Her Heart // Chapter 1 // Shuri

Summary: You left behind the life of a wardog and continued on as Y/N of Wakanda and the heart of the black panther. Your world is suddenly flipped upsiode down when an old target kidnaps you and the Queen of Talokan. Can Shuri keep her head on straight and get you back before it too late?

Pairing: Shuri x Fem!Reader

Warnings: Spoilers // Mentioned Character Death

Chapter 1 // Chapter 2 //

Today was supposed to be simple. Shuri would train with the Dora Milaje in the early hours of the morning. Becoming the black panther meant she had to train harder than when she would spar with you. Back when T'Challa held the mantle. You being one of the best spies in Wakanda meant you could put up a good fight. Then she would spend time with you working in the lab. You had some designs for some new weapons to show her. You were proud of them. So she was excited to see what you came up with. This was the last thing on her mind. Namor was the last thing on her mind.

"How dangerous are these threats?" Shuri asked as the council gathered in the throne room. 

"Reports are telling us that Namor has resurfaced. With clear intentions of destroying Wakanda." Okoye said with her hands behind her back. Scared? No. Worried? Of course but she couldn't let the council know that.

"Namor? I thought there was a truce with Talokan?" Ayo questioned and Shuri began zoning out. Namor was still set on attacking Wakanda? After everything he's already done. Yes, Shuri demanded a truce but in the end, he killed her mother. Something she could not forgive. When will it end? Shuri refused to let someone else she cares about fall due to his actions.

"Princess." A voice tore her from her trance and she looked up to see all eyes on her. 

"I'll go to the checkpoint with Okoye and Ayo. If he's planning something, I must stop him before any attacks happen. Even if that means killing him this time. We leave in an hour." The black panther sneered as she stood from the throne both her mother and brother once sat. The room remained silent as she walked out with a heavy heart. Everyone knew where she was headed. To inform her dearest of this mission. A mission she may or may not return from. Namor couldn't attack again. Hasn't Wakanda mourned enough? Buried enough. Lost in her thoughts she entered the lab, her eyes finding your form almost immediately as you talked to other scientists. A small smile appeared on her lips as you waved your hand over the floating screen.

"Good evening, Princess." You perked up upon hearing Grio announce her presence and you went up to hug her. You may be a trained spy but she's the only one to make you smile brighter than you have before. She hugged you back and you pulled back before your smile fell. Her eyes held sadness and you caressed her cheek.

"What bothers you my love?" You asked with concern laced in your voice and she kissed your palm.

"Everyone out! Now!" She demanded and all the other scientists scattered out of the lab. You looked up at her with confusion evident on your features as you sat down the clipboard in your hands.

"Why did you send them off? What's going on?" You were worried now as she took a deep breath. Whatever she was about to tell you, isn't easy for her to say. 

"We've gotten reports that Namor is planning to launch another attack. Your body went still as you held the gasp that threatened to leave you.

"And who said that? Where did you hear that from?" You questioned and she held your arms.

"One of Talokan's people came to the river border last night. Told us to be ready. He wants to finish what he started." She told you and you had to hold back tears. You knew she was about to go out there. You wouldn't be surprised if she was still hell bent on killing him. After what he did to her mother. 

"Are you-" you couldn't finish your sentence as she slowly nodded and a small whimper finally cracked. "Why? Why now? He has a family now, what could his reasoning be behind this attack?"

"I don't know. That's what I'm going to find out." 

"You can't go out there. If any of this is true, he could very well be trying to separate you from the palace." You started to panic and she grabbed your hands. 

"I have to sthandwa. I might be able to talk some sense into him. If he is planning an attack I need to know when and why." She pulled you closer by your waist, hoping to calm you down.

"No. No! What if it's a trap set for you?" You argued and she sighed. She knew you would not agree so easily. "If he does want to attack, taking you out first is a battle strategy. He almost took you from me once. I cannot bear that pain again."

"I'll return to you Y/N." She held your face and you shook your head. You closed your eyes as she rested her forehead against your own. "I promise you."

"If you die on me, I'll resurrect you and kill you myself." You stated and she couldn't help the smile on her lips. No matter how serious you were. You almost never had to use your abilities. You gave up training them after you failed to bring the queen back. Her lips found yours in a passionate kiss as if to seal the promise. Your fingers dug in her hair and her hold on your waist tightened. The kiss held much more than a promise. It meant, come back to me. I love you. Be careful. Everything you couldn't say without the dam breaking.

You didn't even hear Okoye enter the lab until she cleared her throat. "M'Baku and the Jabari tribe have been notified. It's time to go princess." The two of you parted and you bit your lips as you hugged her one more time. 

"Please-"

"I know my love. I promised, didn't I? Keep the lab from falling into chaos until I get back." She asked before backing away from you. The two of you didn't release the hold on the other's hand until she had gotten further away. You felt empty when her hand slipped from yours but you held up. No more tears. She was gonna come back. You had to be strong. She was the black panther. Everything will be just fine. You still followed behind her as the two went to the elevator. 

"I'm gonna see you off." You told her and she nudged you with her shoulder. You looked over at her trying your best to keep the tears in your eyes. She rested her forehead on yours and you sighed as you leaned into her. The doors opened and the wind from the royal jet had your curls blowing in the wind.

The aircraft had been prepared and you walked out with Shuri. Intertwining your hand with hers as you neared the landing dock. She squeezed your hand in reassurance which you greatly appreciated. On the outside you may have it all together. But you were torn apart on the inside. You can't lose her. Not now. She's to become your wife in a couple of months. And you hers. When the time came she turned to you before kissing your lips one more time. It was quicker than the one you shared in the lab but held all the same passion. You watched as she walked into the jet with Okoye and Ayo not far behind. Aneka walked up to you before putting a comforting arm around you. Just like you, her love was going on what could be a suicide mission. You leaned into her embrace as you watched the jet disappear into the clouds. A light hand on your shoulder tore your attention from the sky and onto Aneka. "They will be okay. She will be okay. I am here if you need anything Y/N." You nodded before turning on your heels to go to the room you shared with Shuri. There you changed into a black battle suit you had stored away in your closet. Shuri had it made for you after you fought off some mercenaries who came to steal vibranium. You let out a sigh as you prayed for Okoye, Ayo, and Shuri's safety. Your eyes opened and you quickly ran to the lab. Upon entering you clapped your hands and looked at all the scientists present.

"Okay. Wakanda might be in danger. Those weapon plans I went over with all of you. It's time. We need to get them prepared for Shuri to look at upon her arrival back to the palace." You grabbed your clipboard and turned to the page with the vibranium daggers you had drawn out. You weren't going to deem yourself useless again. "Starting with these."

// The River Border //

Shuri felt as if her heart was beating out of her chest as she used the conch Namor left behind to call to him. Her thoughts ran wild as they waited. Why would he attack now? Why does he want to attack? Wakanda hasn't done anything to Talokan to receive such threats. She just wanted this to be a bad dream so she'd wake up next to you in your bed. The sun beaming down on you making you look like an angel. You would kiss her good morning and the two of you would lay there for a while talking about the wedding. Who you wanted to invite. What type of flowers you wanted in your bouquet. All the small details.

"Princess." Okoye called out as the water rippled, showing he arrived. She balled her fist as he stepped out of the water with Attuma close behind. He seemed a bit confused with the call but stopped at the edge of the water upon feeling the tension in the air. 

"Princess. To what do I owe this meeting?" He questioned as Okoye and Ayo stood on alert.

"Don't play dumb with me Namor. We heard about your plan." She spat and now he frowned.

// The Palace //

"Ms. Y/N. The queen of Talokan is here to see you and the princess. She is waiting in the throne room." You frowned at the announcement Grio made. What was she doing here? How dare she show her face in Wakanda. You shot up from the computer and walked to the throne room where Namora stood by her queen. The queen saw the way your brows nearly touched because of the frown on your face and she gave a slight bow.

"You seem troubled." She said holding a blue hand on her swollen belly.

"Why are you here?" You asked and she was a bit taken aback by the sudden outburst. You had always shown her with respect. "Shouldn't you be standing by your husband?"

"I am here because I was summoned here." She replied and now you were the one confused.

"Summoned by who?" You questioned and she was a little concerned by your lack of knowledge on the information. 

"One of the Dora Milaje called from the river border. Said there was something you and the princess needed to speak to me about. But it seems you have no idea what I'm talking about." She stated and you slowly backed away.

"We didn't send anyone. It would've been one of us to invite you personally on important matters. Not Dora Milaje. Especially not a single Dora Milaje." You told her and you caught the way Namora tensed. 

"Where is the princess?" Namora asked, holding her weapon. Her eyes scanned the throne room as you sped to the table and grabbed your kimoyo beads.

"The princess has gone to the river border to confront Namor. Someone from Talokan alerted us that Namor was planning an attack." You told her and she frowned.

"He has made no such plans. Someone from Talokan? That's not true." She said taken aback and you sighed running a hand through your hair. You didn't like where this conversation was going. Neither of you knew about what was just revealed. It couldn't have been-

"Shit. Namora I'm going to need your help. We both have to stay with her at all times. She cannot leave this palace! Grio lock us down!" You shouted and the queen had fear rush across her features. 

"What's happening?" She exchanged looks with Namora who was prepared to protect K'uk'ulkan's queen with her life. 

"This whole thing was a setup. Both Talokan and Wakanda are without their protectors. You were lured here. The queen of Talokan. Who is currently pregnant with the child of a God. Someone knows something." You told her and she froze. Fear for her unborn child's life rushing through her body. 

"I'm going to do my best to keep you safe. With Namora here that's more than possible. Come, we have to get to the lab." You stretched out a hand to the queen and she took it before the two followed you to the lab. You reached the lab where the scientist seemed to be surprised that you brought the Queen of Talokan here. 

"What's the progress on those weapons?" You asked and one scientist spoke up. 

"98%! Finishing the last one now."

"Hurry and print everything!" You shouted as you reached for the vibranium daggers you had finished. The blades were sharp to the touch and you slipped them into your boots. The last weapon, a vibranium short sword, had finished printing as Grio spoke out.

"Palace is locked down Ms. Y/N."

"Good." You grabbed a spare kimoyo bracelet and slipped it on Amera's wrist. "This is how we communicate. If we were to get separated for any reason, you can use these to contact me. I have the earrings as well so it won't be too noticeable. They can also reach the princess. And I'm almost certain Namor will be with her."

"Grio! Try to get in contact with Shuri." A couple minutes went by and you could hear your heartbeat in your ears. The pounding sound of a drum causing you to lose your breath. 

"She didn't answer."

"Try again!"

// The River Border //

"Plan for what exactly?" Namor asked and Attuma stood in front of him. 

"Your plan to attack Wakanda a second time. You were bold enough to send a message through one of your people." Okoye spat and his lips went into a thin line. 

"I did no such thing. Besides, how do I know you're not pulling something on me. After requesting my wife come to your palace after my so-called threat of an attack." He spoke and Ayo looked over at Okoye. Neither of them had knowledge of this.

"We have no knowledge of this."

"What are you on about?" Shuri asked as her kimoyo beads vibrated on her wrist. She pushed to answer them this time and Y/N was on the other end.

"Shuri! Shuri, where are you?" She asked. Her voice held panic and worry.

"We're here with Namor. He claims he doesn't even know what we're talking about." Shuri told her dearest and the other end was silent.

"It was a setup." She said and everyone's attention turned to the princess with shock evident on their features. 

"What do you mean a setup? Y/N what is happening?" Shuri became confused as her dearest was panicking on the other end.

"Amera. Namor's queen, said that a Dora Milaje came to the river border saying that we requested her presence at the palace. Apparently someone from Talokan said Namor was planning an attack. When I mentioned it to her she didn't even know what I was talking about." Shuri felt her heart drop to her stomach. Everyone has been tricked. Both leaders were drawn out from their kingdoms. "My love. I believe it's best for you to return back to Wakanda for I fear-"

A/N: Her Heart!!! But I plan to condense to longer and less chapters. Hope yall enjoy!! New fics coming soon!!!

[mayhaps-a-blog]

Rewatching Fullmetal Alchemist (2003), I may have been too harsh on the ending - I definitely prefer Brotherhood, but the 2003 canon definitely has its charms. Definitely a mixed bag, as most shows are, really!

My pros and cons list got long, but here:

The good: Dante is a fascinating villain, and a neat character! Her attempts to vaguely justify her actions while clearly having completely lost touch with humanity were interesting to watch, and her interactions with the homunculi were great!

I also liked the homunculi - I think I prefer Envy from Brotherhood, but Lust and Sloth's struggle with their memories and yearning for a life that was never theirs added an interesting dimension to their characters. Wrath is an incredibly tragic character and watching him scream for his mother, any mother, only to be faced with abuse is heartbreaking.

Rose's story is likewise more extensive and tragic than in Brotherhood. "More extensively tragic" is true of a lot of 2003.

The themes of the cost of human transmutation are much more focused - human transmutation, its causes and its consequences, are the main theme of the story rather than a means to a different end (I could go on... but I already made a post about that). The show also deals a lot with child abandonment, and abuse - with Wrath as the scared, angry child who is drawn into a dangerous group through his desire for a mother, Envy as wrathful to the point of hating everyone, and Ed starting down Envy's path, but veering into something closer to acceptance, if not forgiveness. Al is the one with forgiveness. We see the why, we see the how - and for Nina of course, and Selim too. And that lends some interesting depth to the story.

The actual ending isn't as terrible as I remember thinking it - I liked Mustang's epilogue, but I wish they'd left Ed's ending ambiguous. But I like it when shows leave the future somewhat mysterious :)

The bad: I am still not a fan of the WW1 plot. It feels unnecessary, and I can think of a lot more interesting answers for "what's behind the gate" than a sudden surprise isekai story. Frankly, I don't even want an answer to what's beyond the gate; like God, death, and souls, that's the big mystery none of us should or could ever know, and any attempted answer in media ends up mundane and boring compared to the grand mystery. And the excuse of the deaths in our world somehow echoing back through time to fuel alchemy just raises more questions than it answers. The whole idea raises more questions than it answers, which is not what I look for in a show finale! Speculating over what comes next is one thing, having to scratch your head to figure out how the universe works when it's stated and supposed to follow clearly defined rules is just annoying.

Another answer that brings up more questions is Hohenheim. His backstory with Dante is fascinating - and almost completely unexplored. The fact that he is a mass-murderer, multiple times over (he changes bodies at least twice, the original switch and into his current body, and given Dante's original appearance the bodies do still age - he'd need a few to manage 400 years!) is never fully addressed other than "well he's not doing it again so it's fine I guess." But really, when exactly did he realize murder is bad, actually? (Yes, even if it's "witches and plague victims", like, seriously?) It apparently took 400 years - was it meeting Trisha, or something before then? Did he wake up one day and realize his marriage sucked and decide to hit the bricks? Was it some kind of immortal's mid-fourth-life crisis? Can we really ignore all the murder just because he's nice now??

Finally, the ending does feel a little rushed compared to Brotherhood, probably because of the fewer episodes (while close in overall length, 2003 spends 25 episodes on the content that Brotherhood covers in 10). A few plot points feel forced or unrealistically rushed - why would Russell and Fletcher's father have been shown the underground city? Dante has her own house to teach alchemy in! And Mustang's rebellion felt like it was really forced through for the plot - he could at least have leveraged the soldiers' experiences in Ishbal, etc. instead of demanding they commit mutiny with no evidence. I'd expect them to mutiny against him! But that's stuff a few more episodes may have fixed.

In summary...

FMA (2003): Excellent characters, excellent characterization, I wholeheartedly love episodes 1-25 (except maybe Barry's introduction, that aged horribly if it was ever decent at all), the time we get to spend with Hughes and Mustang's team and all the little mini arcs is great! I like that they brought in some of the earlier characters to work with, I like the way they took their themes and (most) story arcs. Would recommend watching, preferably before Brotherhood.

Brotherhood: Definitely the stronger plot to me. I like Father as a villain and prefer Hohenheim's backstory here; I definitely prefer the whole deal and ambiguity with Truth and the gate to the surprise!isekai in 2003. Brings in some absolutely fantastic characters and the buildup to the finale feels less rushed - more things feel realistic and well-thought out, like Mustang's rebellion, with the extra time to let characters get their chess pieces into place.

Overall, I still prefer Brotherhood - but 2003 has grown on me with this rewatch! I'd definitely still suggest watching it before Brotherhood, and will add at least episodes 1-25 to my regular rewatch list. If I can still find them. Plus Mustang's team's episodes. As far as I'm concerned, those are all totally canon to all versions of the story!

[elkian]

Something I noted while reading the manga that's still really interesting to me is how there's no Objectively Completely Good (or Evil) character in Dungeon Meshi. I think it interacts with Kui's really believable character dynamics, too.

Under the cut for major spoilers:

From Laios' party, we have no purely Good person. Laios is often the punchline/stooge/what have you, but he has his positive traits. The party trusts and follows him despite his foibles. Chilchuck is so resistant/bad at emotional communication that he tries to sabotage his own team (to protect them) and ended up divorced without knowing how, and almost dies because he was too embarrassed to admit this. Marcille is a mix of proud and brilliant that causes as many problems as it solves, including the whole Committing An International Felony thing and that's the START of it in some ways. Senshi's willingness to stick to his guns makes him inflexible towards his teammates in ways that can cause issues, like the Mandrake situation or driving Chilchuck to berserk rage in the trap room.

(Sidenote, I've realized Kabru and Laios are foils not just over the monster thing - an unquenchable passion that drives each in their own way - but because of their team leadership styles. Kabru is very personable, but as mentioned in my prev post linked above, Laios is knowledgeable about team synergy and skills. Also considering his interaction in Marcille's nightmare, Laios tries to take his team's emotions seriously, he just isn't always the best at it because he's assuming from himself as a baseline, and that's just not accurate to most non-Falin and non-Senshi interactions. (And even some of those.)

My point is that while charisma is the basis of Kabru's MO, Laios isn't incapable of caring about his team and understanding them, it's not not as obvious because he goes about it in a different way.)

It's been noted before, but both Thistle and the Winged Lion aren't totally evil. Not only are they sympathetic, but they have virtues in their own ways.

Thistle's greatest crime was loving his family too much, and it is a tragedy of literally epic proportions, kicking off the entire series. His methodology is suspect and involving the WL was doomed from the outset, but his intentions were legitimately good. The kingdom's citizens even begin sort of forgiving him or at least trying to accept him at the end of the series, which is really touching. There's a lot of debate over the concept of redemption arcs, and to be frank, I don't think it's possible to redeem Thistle's actions at this point, but that doesn't mean he's narratively required to die in isolation. If anything, that would contradict the communal elements repeated in the narrative. It's the citizens' choice to forgive him, not a requirement. It's not exactly a surprise as the series was closing on a happy ending for all involved (aside from WL ig) at that point, but it's still nice, and it wasn't a lock.

The Winged Lion may never have had the capacity to be Objectively Good, as an eldritch being with no basis in humanity or the physical world initially, but the manga takes the time to show the WL bemoaning the loss of followers, the loss of potential "flavors". Although the WL has immense power, that power is -not unlike the Genie in Disney's Aladdin now that I think of it lol- bent to the whims of creatures that WL simply doesn't and will never have the capacity to truly understand. WL also doesn't seem able to interact with the physical world on most levels until the ending, requiring a snowballing of power and the reaving of reality itself before the Winged Lion can really affect the "world", and arguably it can't be the purely physical world at that point in order to be interacted with. The Winged Lion is antagonist and overlord, yes, but also a victim in a sense. Like Thistle, redemption is impossible. Unlike Thistle, forgiveness and cohabitation is also impossible. It's not the WL's fault. I kind of think of the WL as like a bear or other wildlife that has developed such a taste for human food, garbage, etc. that they will keep breaking into houses and dumpsters no matter what. There's no infrastructure available to rehabilitate the WL, to return the Winged Lion to the eldritch plane it once inhabited. Only the WL could choose to do so, I think, and notably doesn't. Still, I can pity the Winged Lion like one does the bear that gets shot for breaking into dumpsters and biting humans in the process.

Anyways, many more examples abound, but it's a fascinating element to an already complex and fascinating story.