#yes i had a very special time on christmas market

[avopumpkin]

Today Kakashi visited Christmas Market in Katowice

And he took the kids! (Yes, even Sasuke who was in Akatsuki that time, lol)

(A better picture had a visible kid's face, so in order to protect this little guy's privacy, I don't upload it anywhere)

They're on a date. 🥺💖

They're on a date, too!!!

(Well... 🤭)

Gaara visited, too!! And he had a great time, especially with Naruto. 💖

A small trip, but I think it was worth it. <33

Thank you @goldyluna and @starmoonlightfox for supporting my weird ideas and being patient with me. And most importantly - holding those figurines for me. You're the best. <33

[beautiful-is-boring]

birthday boy

Levi x reader - Levi birthday special

Contains: fluff, not proof red, actually this is kinda bad

December 25th was only a few days away. The spirits of soldiers were at an all time high for the impending Christmas celebrations at the survey corps head quarters, including yours. But most importantly, it was the birthday of the love of your life.

Your boyfriend Levi is an incredibly observant partner, so while you had been secretly preparing for his birthday, you had to admit, it was a bit...dificult to hide things from him. Levi wasn't dumb either. He knew. He knew you have been secretly preparing. You had gone to the market alone the other day, claiming you were just stocking up on snacks and tea, but Levi knew you had bought him something secretly.

"What'd you get from the market?" He asked, knowing you had brought him something for his birthday as well as for Christmas. He could tell, as he watched your slightly sheepish expression as he lounged on the bed of his quarters.

"Oh, just some tea and snacks, bought some shampoo too. And pads. Yeah. That's about it." You quickly unpacked the items you bought from the bag, but shoved his hidden gift along side the bag deep inside your side of the closet.

He had a tiny smirk on his face as he watched your antics. "You know I can see through your act right? I know you bought me something,brat."

"Ugh fine yes, I bought you something for Christmas! " You huffed.

"And...?" He urges you with a raised eyebrow and a small smirk.

You sigh. "Fineee yes I bought you something for your birthday BUT you're not allowed to snoop in my side of the closet to see the gift in advance, got it?"

"Yes ma'am." He chuckled.

------

Levi sighed for the umpteenth time that night. "Brat, are you seriously going to stay up till twelve to wish me a happy birthday?"

"...Yes." You answer.

He looked at you. You were sitting right beside him on the bed, dressed in your pajamas that he thought looked adorable on you, staying up alongside him. He had insomnia, but you did not. He could see the tiredness in your eyes, but he could also see the eagerness and excitement in them. You really were a sweetheart.

Levi wrapped an arm around your shoulders and brought you closer.

"Go to sleep sweetheart. You can wish me in the morning."

"No. I wanna be the first one to wish you."

"Tch. You're gonna be the first one to wish me regardless. We wake up next to each other, idiot."

"Don't care."

"You stubborn little shit."

"Look who's talking."

He was about to give you another one of his retorts, when you surprised him by cupping his face gently. The way you held his face, as if he were glass, always melted him, regardless of the fact that you had done this multiple times.

"Levi dear?"

"Hm?"

"Happy birthday."

Levi's breath hitched. It was at that moment he realized it was 12 AM already. The 25th of December.

"Thankyou brat". Levi loved bantering you, annoying you and getting annoyed by you. All because he loved you. He adored you. You leaned in close, the tip of both of your noses nuzzling against each other softly before you locked your lips with his for a sweet and gentle kiss, the first kiss after he turned one year older. Levi kissed you back just as gently, relishing in the feeling if your soft lips against his and the welcoming feeling of warmth in his chest.

"There. You've wished me. Now let's go to sleep hm? "

You exclaim "But your gifts-" You are stopped from speaking any further when Levi interrupted you with a peck to your soft lips.

"After we wake up, okay? I know you're excited but you need to get your rest, it's very late."

"But-"

"No buts, sweetheart. It's my birthday so you have to listen to me now."

You sigh and get back into the covers. "You're using your birthday boy privileges. This is cheating, baby.."

Levi only chuckled in response and allowed himself to get cradled by you in your arms, all cozy under the blanket.

"Happy birthday again, Levi. I love you" You whispered into his ear.

"I love you too, brat. Thankyou."

"Oldie" You giggle.

"Tch. I'm not that old."

With you by his side, he didn't mind growing older.

[rebelliousstories]

‘Twas the Night Before…

25 Days of Ficmas

Relationship: Poly!Lost Boys x Reader

Fandom: The Lost Boys

Request: No

Warnings: Fluff, Mentions of Neglect, Mentions of Weed

Word Count: 1,613

Main Masterlist: Here

Lost Boys Masterlist: Here

Summary: Christmas Eve is finally here, and Laddie is being introduced to a Christmas classic whether the boys like it or not.

Consider Donating: Here

The very firsts of being a vampire stick with you always. Maybe not when you are mortal, but when you are a vampire, you remember a lot of firsts. First kill, first transformation, first hunt. Or maybe you remember your first holidays as a vampire, like your birthday, a new year that comes and goes. This time, it was a first Christmas.

She had only joined the pack about a decade ago in the late 60’s, but that was just the beginning for them. There was a special little spot for her that they never knew was missing, and could never be without again. Which is why, when she found a sickly boy that had been left at the pier in Santa Carla, none of the boys could tell her no.

Getting the boy to take a bit of wine to get healthy again was the easy part. The physical pain was nothing like the mental for the young boy, whom they had come to know as Laddie. As Christmas drew near, she made sure to give him a great one. Taking him to the markets with Dwayne, flying around to see lights with Paul; she just wanted him to have a better Christmas than he was probably used to.

A chilly night on the pier had greeted them when they climbed off their bikes that night. Unwrapping her arms from around Marko’s torso, she pressed a kiss to his cheek as she dismounted. Laddie immediately went off of Dwayne’s bike and grabbed her hand.

“Can we go look at the vendors please?” Laddie was so excited as they waited for the rest of the boys to dismount.

“Of course. Give me one second okay?” She passed the boy back to Dwayne who happily tucked him into his side as he leaned against the railing. Turning back to David, who was right next to Dwayne, her hands spread out around his stomach before wrapping around the back of him as she pressed front against front.

“Yes, kitten?” The bleach blonde drawled, drawing out a cigarette for himself.

“Gonna take Laddie around. We’ll be back in a couple hours, okay? Sunrise is seven tomorrow.” Standing on her tiptoes, she pressed a kiss to his plush lips as he raised a hand to the back of her head to keep her close.

After a moment, David finally released the woman. “Two hours, then you come back.”

Smiling, she pulled away, giving him another kiss to the tip of his nose. With a smile, she held her hand out for Laddie to take while she threw another kiss to the rest of her boys. Taking the young boy around the vendors that were preparing for their final rush of sales before Christmas tomorrow, she happily stopped at every one that caught his eyes.

They spent the majority of the evening like that. Just walking around and enjoying each other’s company. Still having some money from where she swiped some guys wallet, she was intent on getting at least a little something for Laddie. Almost as if there was a cue for it, their next stall had a bunch of books.

Ranging from novels, to short stories and even children’s picture books. Which is when she saw it. “A Visit from St. Nicholas” by Clement Clarke Moore; it was a classic that she remembered from her own childhood. Snagging it, she paid the dollar for the busted up copy, and kept it tucked underneath her arm.

“Have you ever heard this story, Laddie?” Showing him the book as they began to walk back to where the bikes were, the boy took it in his other hand as they paused briefly. When he got his other hand on it, Laddie turned it around, and tried to read it, but unfortunately could not. He shook his head, which made her smile softly.

“You’ll love it,” she said, taking his hand again as they continued walking. “I used to have this read to me when I was your age. I haven’t been able to n a long time. This’ll bee a treat.”

Once they came upon the bikes, she saw the boys waiting for them almost as if they had not moved yet. But the mussed hair, and shaggy clothes showed that they had at least probably gotten into a fight with the surf nazis.

Marko came up to her as Laddie ran to Dwayne again. “Whatcha got there, bela?”

Giving her a kiss, he took the book from her hand as he read the cover. All he did was arch an eyebrow as he returned it. Paul was next, but he did not care about getting the book. All he wanted was another kiss.

“Boys, let the kitten up. Let’s go for a ride.” David stated, stubbing out his current cigarette. Holding a hand out for their girlfriend, she tucked the book into the storage that was underneath the seat on his bike, before finally hoping on.

Taking off down the beach, it was the same old, same old. Whooping and hollering. Screaming and laughing. The boys constantly going faster and fast as they dug into the sand below. Each time they did this, she felt alive once more. Like she could feel her heart beating again, and her own blood rushing through her veins.

Climbing down into the cave, the book was back in her hands as she let David guide her down into their domain. Everyone went to their normal spots; Marko to his pigeons, Paul to roll some weed, Dwayne and Laddie to their cove, and David to his chair. Leaving her to sit down with her book at the edge of the fountain.

“Hey, Laddie,” she called, waving the book. In an instant, the boy rushed over which greatly confused everyone in the cave. He tucked into her side as she raised her arm and showed him the cover once more.

“Whatcha got there, princess?” Dwayne was curious as to why the young boy was not with him anymore.

“‘A Visit from St. Nicholas’, or more commonly referred to as ‘The Night before Christmas’. I used to read it every Christmas Eve with my family, so I thought I’d continue the tradition with Laddie. Wanna join?” A little bit slower, but with the same enthusiasm, Dwayne snuggled into the other side of his girlfriend.

“Alright,” she began, “‘A Visit from St. Nicholas’ by Clement Clarke Moore. ‘Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.”

“Is that ‘The Night before Christmas?’” Marko pipped up, coming back into the cave when he heard her speak.

All she did was pat her legs for him to come rest at, as her sides were taken. As Marko settled in, she started again. “The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, in hopes that St. Nicholas would soon be there. The children were nestled all snug in their beds; while visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads.”

“The hell is a sugar plum?” This time, Paul joined the party.

“It’s a confection from the Victorian era. Come here.” Now, the spot in front of Laddie was taken by the second blonde vampire. Looking over at David, who quickly looked away, she smiled over at him.

“Wanna come join us, sweetie?” David shook his head.

“I don’t do festive.” Rolling her eyes, she felt Dwayne’s lips press to her cheek.

“Don’t mind him. Continue?” He asked so sweetly.

“And mama in her ‘kerchief, and I in my cap, had just settled our brains for a long winter’s nap.” She continued the poem.

While she read, occasionally her eyes would cut over to David. And each time she did, he would hide it by turning away faster than lightning. But she just continued reading. The rest of her pack was enjoying the story and that was all that mattered. Reaching the end, she noticed Laddie’s eyes growing heavier and heavier.

“But I heard him exclaim, ‘ere he drove out of sight- ‘Happy Christmas to all, and to all a goodnight.’” As soon as the last word was uttered, gently, she shut the book as she scooped Laddie up to go into their nest.

Giving all of her boys a kiss goodnight, even David, she happily tucked herself in to go to sleep with the young man. His head was resting on her chest as he slept, making her cherish this moment. For a while, she could hear the rest of the cave mess about and do whatever it was that they wanted to. In the meantime, she just picked up another book she had on her side of the bed, and read some more while Laddie slept.

Each one of her boys came to say goodnight one final time, giving her another kiss as they quietly uttered their departures. David was the last one to come around, but he looked rather nervous standing at the edge of the bed in the nest. However, she did not say anything for fear of scaring him off.

Wordlessly, he took off his boots and laid down right next to her. In his hands was the book she had read earlier. Not able to look her in the eye, David just handed it to her as she dropped her other book.

“Will you read it to me? Please, kitten,” and when he asked so sweetly and softly, there was no way she could deny him. Allowing him to get comfortable, she opened the book to the first page for the second time that night.

“‘Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house…”

[thesturniolos]

glass ornaments

‧₊˚🎄✩ ₊˚🦌⊹♡

merry christmas my sweet babies ! 🎄

here’s my present to you:

more specifically, @freshlovehacker 🎁♡

summary: wholesome tooth-rotting fluff all about decorating the tree and just chris being chris, 1st and 3rd person.

warnings: none!

tags: @sturniolosluvv @sturnsblunt @chrisdevora @sosmatt @kirby0strombolli @stvrni0lo @floofparker @vqnillasturns @slut4chris @chrisolivia4l @silverlakee @freshlovehacker@plasticferal @chrisenthusiast @chrisluvbot @bluesturniolo333 @rac00ns-are-c00l4 @mattscokewhore @iheartchrissturniolo @zooweemamas @sturniolotripletsarehot @mcttsturn @bernardsleftbootycheek @sturnsworld @qwertytit @putyoursemenonme @recklesssturniolo @silly-sturniolos @klarasmith @sturnvilmed @delusionalsturniologirl @thy-mission

christmas is notoriously the best time of the year, we all know this. twinkling lights, cold weather paired with cozy clothes, snowflakes, giving and receiving presents, ice skating, christmas markets, the mad panic in the stores, a long table on christmas day, the unison of families all around the world.

but the best thing of all? the build up. hanging the glass ornaments on the smallest branches of a christmas tree, praying they don’t fall and break. music from the radio plays in the background and people find themselves dancing around the tree to the beat of the song, smiling and soaking up the festivities.

and that was exactly what was happening at a certain person’s house on a cold evening in december.

snow lingered in the air and fell quietly onto the pavement, children squeezing their hands together praying for it to lay.

but in one specific house, an adult, who could be mistaken as a child for his immature ways, pressed his hands together wishing for his cookies to be a golden brown this year, for every holiday he found himself fanning the smoke out of the kitchen.

“i’ve got a good feeling about this one”

“we’d hope so- i don’t feel like having to apologise to the fire brigade again”

the couple stand in the kitchen, the girl holds a plate, ready for the cookies, whereas the boy finds himself wrapped up in a very messy apron.

“okay, i’m going in.” he scoops down and opens the oven door causing a smile to spread across his face as he reveals perfectly baked cookies.

“it worked! it actually worked!” i smile back at him and grab the tray from him so that in all the excitement he doesn’t accidentally burn himself, yes it has happened before.

“well done, baby. i told you you could do it, perhaps this year is your special year!”

“now we have the cookies we can get started on the tree, come on!” chris grabs my hand and pulls me slightly towards the living room.

“you’re not gonna decorate them?”

“we can do that laterrrr, i wanna decorate the tree not the cookies!”

i feel a tug on my hand again and this time it pulls my feet off the floor towards the pine tree.

we had just cut it down today, chris’ face was priceless, i don’t think i’ve ever seen him so happy. he left thanking me and repeating that it’s our first christmas together as a couple and he couldn’t be happier.

just last year, the two had been best friends, childhood best friends even, practically inseparable since birth and painfully in love for everybody to see.

and now they’re here, just as in love with a picture perfect house and everything they could possibly want.

“we need to get more ornaments, we haven’t got enough”

“we’ll have enough chris, we have tinsel and lights to put on as well. it doesn’t have to be full-“

“we need to go to target and get more.”

“chris, we do not need to go and get more. we’ve spent 350 already, do you want to pay the bills this month?”

he frowns at my response and crosses his arms, looking at the bare tree with one singular bauble hanging from a branch.

“we’ve not even started on it yet and you’re already sulking, come on you big baby.” i pull him up from the couch and pass him a plastic ornament.

he carefully places it near the top and looks back at me for approval. i nod and grab another for him.

before they knew it, the tree had been nearly fully decorated and much to chris’ complaints, the tree had barely any space left for any more ornaments or tinsel. although in saying that, a lot of the tinsel ended up wrapped around his neck and being whipped through the air as they paraded about to the songs.

“are we done? can we turn the lights on now?”

“you’ve forgotten the star, it’s the most important part of the tree.”

he jumps to grab it from my hands and balances on the side of the couch to reach and pushed it down onto the top of the branch before leaning back and jumping down excitedly.

“you can turn the lights on now.” i smile at him and he runs over to the outlet to illuminate the tree.

a festival of warm lights shine across our room and i find myself watching chris rather than the tree.

his reaction was enough to make my heart ache and as he turns to face me, i quickly link my arms around his neck.

“do you like it?” i ask, knowing he did most of the work and the result meant the most to him.

“i love it.” he looks back towards the tree and then reverts back to my hand where he brushes his thumb over the ring he gave me not long ago.

this was a moment the pair had been waiting for for a long time and it felt like a dream to them. for everyone else it may seem like a normal day in december but this was a memory that they had been wishing for, every night in the year from the age of 10.

i lean in to press my lips against his and he smiles into the kiss. his lips are warm and welcoming as his arm slides across my waist pulling me in closer, lifting me in the air slightly.

“i love you” he says, pulling away and looking me in the eyes.

“i love you too, chris.”

[dramioneasks]

Christmas Fics 2023 (Part 1):

Hermione's Holiday Healing by Fawkes01 - M, WIP - Upon deciding to end her 'relationship' with Krum, Hermione also chose to remain at Hogwarts for Christmas. She knew everyone would be disappointed when she didn't arrive at the Burrow, but she needed time to herself. Little did she know that Malfoy had also chosen to stay at the castle for the holidays. It surprised her even more when they began to grow close.

Christmas Treats by cleotheo - T, one-shot - As the Christmas festivities get under way at Malfoy Manor, Draco Malfoy has a special treat for his family. However, he isn't the only member of the family with a Christmas Surprise up their sleeve. Fluffy, festive Dramione one-shot.

Christmas Magic by Darcy M. James - K+, one-shot - Hermione takes a holiday to France to enjoy the Christmas market, dealing with the after effects of the war. She happens upon someone from her past and her day takes an unexpected turn for the better. One-shot. Hermione & Draco. Slight fluff (there's some hard-hitting moments though).

The Library Liaison by Anonymous - E, WIP - When Hermione Granger and Draco Malfoy realise they’ll need to ring in the New Year by fake-dating, they think that’s just what comes with the job. Little do they know that they’re going to get far more than they bargained for.

To Woo a Witch by MyDelphi - E, WIP - Single father Draco Malfoy adored his son. And had decided that for his first Yule, Scorp deserved a priceless gift for being such a good little boy. And what was more priceless than getting him a mother? Getting him Granger as a mother. (Which would be a very convenient present as Draco Malfoy was terribly and irrevocably in love with her.)

Under the mistletoe by hazzapresents - E, WIP - no summary

The Christmas Prank by Ashabadash - M, WIP - Someone at Hogwarts is in the fun and festive mood and Christmas pranks centered around the 12 Days of Christmas have been popping up all throughout the castle, much to the dismay of several professors, including Transfiguration Professor Hermione Granger and the newly appointed Potions Master, Draco Malfoy. Will solving the mystery of this Christmas Prank put these two in the romantic holiday mood? Or will it Scrooge their season?

Twelve Spells of Christmas: The Yuletide Revelations. by Helledore - T, one-shot - Draco and Hermione exchange twelve enchanted notes. What will this Christmas bring?

All I Want For Christmas Is You by leopoldfucker - E, one-shot - hristmas Eve is a special day for Draco and Hermione, and it’s about to get even more special. That is, if Hermione says yes.

[tea-reads]

A Christmas Getaway

Pairing: Din Djarin x F!reader (Modern AU)

Word Count: +2.5K

Content: Fluff, Friends-to-lovers, first time spending holiday together, animal with very minor injury.

A/N: For this year's @pedrostories Secret Santa, my gift is for @noisynaia! Thank you for your patience, I hope you like it and I really hope I've done your prompt justice. There were so many ideas and possibilities I had in mind, and I finally found the story that felt natural to write. Your prompt was like a warm welcome back into writing and finding joy in it once again.

Thank you @pedrostories for organising this amazing event!

Merry Christmas everyone and have a wonderful and happy new year!

.

.

.

Prologue

The train air whistle roars as white puffs emit from the train through the cold open air. It gradually slows down to a stop, reaching its destination.

Those visiting would have a pamphlet advertising for a ‘magical Christmas getaway in the snow!’, which really was a humble town in a snowy region with some fancy cabins too. The town was to appeal to families most, but that doesn’t stop the solo-travellers from going and booking their own cabin.

Nor does it stop a clever red fox from “participating” by taking advantage of the unfinished foods left behind.

. . . . . . . 

Snowmen and snow angels. Christmas decorations and displays. Gingerbread houses. Dinner with loved ones. Family-friendly Christmas movies. Winter Night Markets. Strings of festive lights. Choirs carolling in front of the grand Christmas tree at the city centre. Children laugh as they run and play like the wild and free spirits they are. Presents. 

Whatever made Christmas special and magical for the kids, Din wanted to give that experience to Grogu. It was the boy’s first Christmas after all. Though the problem was the little boy didn’t seem to share the same level of excitement as the other kids - he was curious and awed, yes, but was so comfortable being carried around by his father as the festive season took place.

Admittedly, one day from grocery shopping at the mall, Din attempted to line up with Grogu for those photographs with Santa, but had to make a sharp turn towards the exit when he saw the tears in his son’s eyes. 

And the presents? Din was just helpless. Maybe he was overthinking it - overthinking everything - that the present had to be perfect, but that could be anything. Getting Grogu a teddy bear wasn’t right to Din, but the single dad wanted and needed to give something special.

He valued practicality, the purpose and the quality of every little moment. Yet throughout putting up their own Christmas tree and decorating it, attempting to cook dinner or bake together, watching Christmas movies each night, he still felt like it wasn’t enough nor right.

And it was still November. 

. . . . . . . 

Two-hour-long train ride. Snow. Cozy cabin. Fireplace. Blanket. Hot chocolate. Book. Getaway.

Whatever made Christmas special this year was the opportunity to finally treat yourself to a getaway.

The hustle and repetitive nature of modern life would sometimes get to you, like being haunted by one of those ghosts from a ‘Christmas Carol’. To combat the noise, you found spending the holidays away from it all to be the answer. 

The overwhelming and unbearable weight of hustle culture became a sign for you to step back, detach, and pivot in another direction. One that welcomes rest and relaxation. You worked way too hard this year, including overcoming all minor inconveniences, you very much deserve a reward. 

After randomly one day Googling places, scrolling social media, you found your holiday spot. Two hours on the train from the city to a region of paradise in snow and ice. 

You booked a cabin for two weeks, celebrating Christmas there in peaceful solitude.

. . . . . . . 

Call it a Christmas miracle because seeing the advertisement on a billboard was all he needed.

Din finally found the perfect gift for Grogu.

How did it not occur to him to just go somewhere nice for the holiday?  

So off they went, booking a two-hour-long scenic train ride and a cabin in a snowy region for two weeks. Truth be told, everything was very last minute and rushed - they barely made it to the platform and hopped in the first carriage. The thrilling journey to the station at the start was exciting to Grogu. Din just dealt with the stress of everything up to checking in.

Din finally breathed and eased against his seat as he watched Grogu press his little hands against the window, the small frog plushie Peli gifted from a brief visit to their home tucked in his arm. His breath fogged the pane a little, mesmerized by the passing wintery view.

There was no plan for what they’d do when they arrived. Whatever Grogu takes interest in, Din will see where it takes them. 

. . . . . . . 

You took one of the carriages at the end when you arrived at the station early. Might as well get a head start on your holiday and also save yourself from the stress of checking in. To occupy yourself as  the other passengers boarded the train, you took the time thinking of what you might do when you arrived at the resort. 

First and foremost, you allocated most of your time in the cabin or snow hiking. Of course there would be the occasional trips to grab essentials in town or sneak a treat at the popular tourist spot cafe. It might be worth buying a souvenir too. 

Whatever happens, it all goes to recovering your social battery. But it seemed to have extended to taking care of a small critter.

It wasn’t long into your hike you notice a ball of orange-red fur so obviously standing out in the snow. Whatever it was, curiosity won and you approached that ball of fur. As you got closer, that ball of fur shivered. 

“Oh my God.” Your eyes widen with panic.

It’s a fox! 

The poor fox weakly lifts its head once it heard you approaching and immediately growls quietly in warning, as if telling you to back off. It was heartbreaking to see how scared and defensive the fox looked - his green eyes glaring, and ears folded back as he hardly bared his teeth at you.

You didn’t know who to call, there was hardly any reception, and there was no way in hell you were leaving this poor fellow all alone.

“I’ll be right back” You promised the fox and rushed back to your cabin to grab a large blanket.

You found the fox now attempting to get up when you came back, and your heart ached when he wobbled. You do your best in staying calm to not further cause distress, yet so many questions and concerns for the fox came to mind, you focus on wrapping the fox in the blanket, safe and snug, and bring him back to your cabin where it’s warm.

‘It’s okay, it’s okay. I got you. You’re safe, darling. I promise.’ You coo softly. The fox resisted at first and squeaks in protest, but relents eventually at the warmth of your voice as you comforted and carried him to your cabin. 

Maybe it is true that animals can sense trustworthy souls based on how willing and well behaved the fox was. 

Or maybe he was just clever enough to realise he’s in good hands and will be taken care of for the next few weeks.

. . . . . . . 

What were the odds of seeing Din on the same trip and finally crossing paths? 

Inevitable. 

It started when you were in the town’s most popular cafe and had to do a double take, making sure you weren’t delusional that it was in fact Din lining up at the counter. He doesn’t notice you, not when he was occupied by the little boy with him.

You couldn't help but keep glancing at his direction every second just to decide if you would very much like to go up to talk to him, but you did not want to deal with the awkwardness of it and went back to reading your book.

For Din, he walked past the souvenir shop and did a double take when he thought he saw you inside. Half of your face was buried from the scarf you wore. Din did not want to deal with the embarrassment of mistaking a stranger for an old friend, but he recognised you for sure. 

After feeling like someone was staring at you for too long, you looked up from the item you held to glare at them only to be met with gentle brown eyes. Din Djarin. You also notice a little boy standing close beside him and holding his hand. The boy gives a timid wave hello. You give a friendly smile and wave back, mouthing ‘hi’.

Din stood there, too shocked to greet you. So you ditched getting a souvenir and walked out of the shop to meet him. 

“Din?” Everything about you, your eyes, your smile, the surreal moment and excitement of seeing an old friend, made Din’s heart flutter. His first thought was how beautiful you are it almost slipped out his mouth. He smiles a little, shy, and nods. He says your name, remembering you. 

“Good to see you again.” He says.

You catch up asking the usual “how have you been/what have you been up to/who’s this little guy?”, learning each other’s duration and plans of their stay.

You laughed uncontrollably when you found out about Din’s stressful experience on the day of departure in comparison to yours. 

“No wonder why I didn’t see you.” You giggle, shedding a tear. 

“Laugh all you want, you’ll be next.” Din frowned but still had a light-hearted tone. 

“It won’t happen. I feel obligated to be your train buddy now.” You say with confidence and Din sighs. 

Din offered that you can drop by and visit him and Grogu for lunch or dinner, but was rather compelled to visit yours when you told him of your situation. 

“This is the fox you’re taking care of?” Din asked quietly nodded at the dozing animal by the fireplace. 

The fox’s ear twitched and he woke up groggy from the pile of blankets after sensing the new companions setting foot in the cabin. The fox first glared defensively at Din, but once his eyes met with the child’s in Din’s arms, he softened up. Grogu stared in awe then looked up at his father, silently asking if he could get close. Din hesitated but set Grogu down.

The little boy and the fox had a harmless stare down gauging the level of friendliness of the other.

“Yeah, I don’t know what happened to him. I just found him shivering a few days ago and so he’s been bunking with me.” You explain, smiling fondly as Grogu started to gently pat the fox’s head, to which the animal accepted.

"He's like an animal whisperer." You giggle, watching the cute interaction between Grogu and the fox.

“I like to call him ‘Fink’.” You added, making Din raise an eyebrow and you felt like he was judging you. Your face flushed with embarrassment and explained. “It’s from a book called ‘The Wild Robot’. You should read it to Grogu - or watch the movie with him if you haven’t. I think you’ll like it.”

“Thanks. Yeah, I’ll look into that.” Din says softly, watching his son bond with the fox. 

“Does anyone else know about this?” Din asks.

Fink now rested his head on Grogu’s lap, eyes closed and sighing happily as the boy continued to soothingly stroke his fur. 

“I don’t think you nor I will do that. Maybe it’s not necessary to anyways.” You finally answered, still unsure. 

Fink made a speedy recovery - no longer shivering, able to walk without wobbling, and expressive.

Your efforts looking after him all led releasing him back into the wild. There was no way you would keep Fink to yourself. Fink wasn’t a pet, yet you acknowledged the strong attachment towards the fox and the companionship shared from looking after him.  

You also had to go back home. Same with Din and Grogu. 

For this evening, Din’s heart ached with regret when they eventually had to go back to their cabin. 

“You’re welcome to visit. I think that’s what Grogu wants too.” You grinned as you bid your farewell for the evening. 

Din nodded, saying he’d come back with Grogu. Neither of you had the courage to admit you wanted to see each other too.

Din continued visiting your cabin as you looked after Fink, giving plenty of time to catch up while Grogu kept the fox company. It was like the two were inseparable. 

On Christmas day, you invited Din and Grogu over for dinner. Din helped with cooking and preparing while Fink played with Grogu. The boy squealed in excitement when Fink pretended to chase him, or vice versa. Even if there was a lack of Christmas decorations, the festive spirit was there. This was probably what Din was looking for, same with Grogu. To just be with the people he loved.

“Grogu, he can’t eat that.” Din quickly grabbed the cookie Grogu tried to feed Fink.  . . . . . . . 

In the middle of the night, Fink wakes up to a muffled conversation. He recognises your voice and then that man - Din was it?

You were in the kitchen. 

Fink can tell by hearing liquid pouring and smelt the aroma of cocoa. 

He picked up a sense of familiarity and intimacy within your conversation. The two of you shared stories from your personal lives in a steady rhythm.

You and Din thanked each other’s company for the evening, the entirety of what came to be from your holiday. And then there was a pause. Talking wasn’t either of your forte, but what did feel right for you both was being in each other’s presence in silence. 

“I missed you.” You blurted.

“I missed you too.” Din whispers, sincere. 

Fink fell back asleep. 

In the kitchen, there were faint shy giggles. Whispering one last season's greeting. Whispering each other’s name playfully. 

First kisses. 

More kisses, savouring and remembering it.

Over and over again. 

. . . . . . . 

“We have to let him go.” Din murmurs, Grogu doesn’t stop hugging the fox. 

The fox was all better and set to go back in the wild. You would also be boarding the train back home soon. 

“We can come back next year.” Din promised, gently placing his hand on Grogu’s shoulder. The boy sniffled and the fox whimpered after the loss of affection. 

“Yeah, and next time, we’ll be in the same cabin,” you said, kneeling next to Grogu and looking at the fox, “and hopefully we’ll see Fink again.” You say softly, believing the fox can understand and make a promise.

. . . . . . . 

Outside your cabin, the three of you watched Fink walk a few steps towards the wilderness, looking back one last time to see Grogu with tears, waving goodbye. 

Fink forced himself to run off, until all that was left behind was the trail of paw-prints in the snow. 

. . . . . . . 

This time Din and Grogu boarded the train early, thanks to you.  

. . . . . . . 

Even though it was almost the new year, it didn’t stop you from giving presents. You joked you were Din’s present - to which he rolled his eyes in amusement. 

But for Grogu?

“Go on, open it up. She got it just for you.” Back at his home, Din gently encouraged Grogu when the little boy looked up to his father with curious eyes from the small, soft wrapped gift.

After carefully unwrapping, Grogu lifts up the gift, stares at it for a few seconds then squeezes it in a tight hug, swinging side to side.

Later that night, Din invited you over to join them for dinner.

“Does he like his gift?” You ask Din nervously while you joined him in his bed.

Din chuckles, carefully pulling you closer and pressing a kiss against your forehead.

“He loves it. Thank you for getting him that.”

In the little boy’s room, there he was, fast asleep. What was also tucked with him and held close to was a small plushie resembling a red fox.

. . . . . . . 

Epilogue

Sometimes, Fink visits the cabin. He knows the people he wants to see most aren't there, so he sits there in the snow, reminiscing.

He liked being called ‘Fink’. It suited him.

Majority would call him as ‘sly’ or ‘mischievous’, but he took it as a compliment in disguise for how ‘clever’ he is.

So clever, that he would keep his promise and recognise the family of three that would visit again next year, Christmas time.

[acaplaya-musings]

12 Days of Christmas - Day 7

Title: Deck The (Castle) Halls Day 7 – Decorations & A little accident Fandom: VoicePlay (Fantasy AU again, and a direct continuation from 'Snow In Voludera' and 'Finding Warmth In Wintertime') Warnings: N/A Word Count: 4,429 (I really didn’t expect this one to be so long!)

(story below the Keep Reading cut!)

.

Geoff, Kathy, Eli, and Layne followed Cesar out of the dining room, and upstairs to one of the spare bedchambers. Over in the corner of the room, Cesar was kneeling down next to a couple of boxes, and looking inside one of them eagerly.

“Yes! I knew we had kept our decorations from last year!” said Cesar.

“And some from the year before that, and the year before that, and the year before that…” said Eli drily.

Cesar looked up. “I know it might not be much to decorate a whole castle with, but we could buy some more – there’s usually special Winter Markets happening in town around the start of the festival – and I could make some more as well!” Cesar pulled out a stringed garland of paper snowflakes from the box. The snowflakes were a little crumpled and slightly yellowed around the edges.

Geoff held up a hand as Cesar appeared to be reaching into the box again. “Cesar, hang on,” he began, “I really do love the concept, it sounds pretty fun and I’m sure you’ve got plenty of ideas for decorating the castle, but I’m still trying to recover my energy from the snowball fight; would it be alright if this could maybe wait until after lunch?”

Cesar deflated a little. “Yeah, alright then, I can wait,” he replied, standing up. Then he brightened. “Ooh! I could go down to the village in the meantime and buy some stuff for decoration-making!” A look of hesitation flashed on his face. “Uh, if that’s alright, Geoff?”

Geoff smiled reassuringly. “Of course it’s alright! Go right ahead!” he replied. “I’ll probably go just relax in the library for a while.”

“I’ll keep you company!” said Kathy, sharing an affectionate smile with Geoff.

“I might go check in at The Palace, then,” said Layne, “I’ll see if I’ve got any Winter Festival duties, and hope that I’m not needed for Yuletide.”

“I’ll come with you,” said Eli to Layne. “I’ll try to have a quick look for Yuletide music stuff, both song tracks and sheet music.”

“Everyone make sure to return in time for lunch!” said Kathy.

---------------------------------------------

“Be careful not to eat too fast, Cesar! You’ll give yourself a sore stomach!”

The group had reconvened at the dining table for lunch, and Cesar in particular was tucking into his meal doggedly.

“What’s got you so hungry, Cesar?” Geoff asked.

“Let me guess,” said Eli, a knowing look in his eyes, “Cesar’s thinking that the sooner he’s done with his food, the sooner decorating can begin, right Cesar?”

Cesar looked up from his plate and smiled sheepishly. “Not that I’m trying to hurry you guys or anything…”

Geoff chuckled. “Well you mentioned something about making decorations yourself, right?” he asked. “Maybe you could start making some more while you wait for us, if you wanted to?”

Cesar beamed. “Great idea! I can go make a start on it right now!” he said. He grabbed his plate, and disappeared out of the room.

“And there he goes!” said Eli, rolling his eyes but smiling.

Geoff turned to look at Kathy. “Actually, speaking of the Winter Festival and stuff,” he began, “Cesar said that many other kingdoms have their own celebratory things in winter as well, right?” He looked over at Eli, who nodded in confirmation, before focusing back on Kathy. “So what about the kingdom you and your parents moved to? Did that have something as well?” Geoff asked.

Kathy gave a half-nod half-shrug. “Yeah, technically,” she replied, “but it wasn’t much like the Winter Festival here. Vecchinoio would have combat displays from the Royal Knights, marching parades, big speeches from their king about hoping for a prosperous new year – all very formalised, you know.”

“Sounds boring,” said Layne.

“I often found it so, yes” said Kathy, nodding again. “I don’t actually remember much about my winter experiences in Voludera growing up, but I remember that I was never allowed to attend the Yuletide party in town. I always did love getting to see the decorations in the village, though!”

“Sounds like we’re both in for some new experiences, then!” said Geoff, smiling. He pushed his chair out from the table. “What do you say we go check out that box of decorations that Cesar was looking at before?”

“Sure, if Cesar hasn’t gotten impatient and beaten us to it!” replied Kathy.

--------------------------------------------

The group headed up to the spare bedchamber where the box of decorations was still sitting, but Cesar wasn’t there.

“He’s probably making more decorations in his room,” said Layne.

“Hopefully that’s what he’s up to, anyway,” said Eli.

Geoff approached the box and sat down next to it as he looked inside.

“Sure got a lot of stuff on strings in here,” he said, pulling out a threaded chain of cotton balls.

“And you have a lot of empty wall-space,” said Layne, “so I think it’ll work out alright.”

“We could definitely benefit from a few more garlands and hanging decorations and the like,” said Eli, “whether bought, or made, or some of each. There really is plenty of space to make use of!” He reached into the box and lifted out a long chain of fabric bunting, with patterns embroidered in colours of red and green. “Oh I’m glad we hung onto this one, for sure!”

“The idea of hanging up decorations is one thing,” said Kathy, “but figuring out how to do it is another matter entirely, both in terms of height and in getting things to stay up!”

Eli looked unbothered, and perhaps even a little smug. “Well I can’t say for sure how everyone else does it,” he said, “but we usually find ways to manage.” He lifted a hand up, palm facing upwards, and the string of cotton balls rose up into the air, hovering about half a foot above the ground.

“Works for me!” said Geoff.

.

Layne and Eli took some of the garlands and other stringed decorations, and went to go find places to put them, while Geoff and Kathy kept rummaging through the box they had come from.

“Wow, there’s some really nice stuff in here,” said Geoff, pulling out some shimmering ornaments made of coloured glass. “I’d be tempted to keep some of these on display year-round!”

“Yeah, I get that, but then they wouldn’t be as special!” said Kathy, pulling out a couple of figurines carved out of wood. “Most of the reasoning for having special winter decorations is so you have something else to look forward to when the season comes around again!” Then Kathy’s cheeks went pink as she spotted something else, down in the bottom of the box. “Oh goodness, would you look at that?” She lifted it out and showed it to Geoff. “I assume you’ve seen this before?” she asked.

“Mistletoe, right?” Geoff replied. “Or something made to resemble a mistletoe cutting, at least. Or it’s a cutting with some sort of magical preservation, I suppose.”

“Do you know much about mistletoe?” Kathy asked in a subtle hint-hint manner. “Have you read about it, maybe?”

Geoff thought for a moment. “It grows on the stems of other trees, the berries are usually white, but can be yellow, and they taste pretty bad.”

“Well, yes, but- wait, what do you mean ‘taste bad’? Mistletoe berries are poisonous!”

“They are?”

Kathy chuckled. “Well, poisonous to humans and at least some animals, anyway. But what I was going to say was that some people hang mistletoe in doorways during wintertime.” Kathy held up the mistletoe and dangled it between the tops of both their heads. “And if two people with feelings for each other happen to find themselves underneath it, then they must share a kiss!”

Geoff felt his cheeks become a little warmer. “Oh really? Is that so?” he replied, his eyes twinkling. He reached up and gently placed one hand over Kathy’s, with the mistletoe still held aloft in her grasp. “Well I don’t think we need a plant to help us with that kind of thing, but since we’ve been given the opportunity…”

Geoff began slowly leaning in closer, and Kathy mirrored his movement without hesitation. Her heart fluttered as Geoff tilted his head ever-so-slightly, and she closed her eyes…

“I see you’ve found the mistletoe, then?”

The two of them whipped their heads around to see Eli standing in the doorway with an amused smirk on his face. “It belongs to Cesar, or it did, anyway,” he continued. “Apparently he hung onto it ‘in case he found the right person’. The both of you might as well keep it, though – you’d certainly get more use out of it than Cesar ever did!”

“Have you come to grab more decorations to hang up?” Geoff asked, trying to sound casual while hoping his face didn’t look as red as it felt.

“Actually I was coming to show you a couple that we’ve put up so far,” Eli replied, “and ask you if you had any ideas or suggestions, but I can come back later if you’d prefer…?”

Geoff sighed and stood up. “No, it’s fine, lead the way,” he said. Geoff offered Kathy a hand to help her to her feet, while giving her a small smile and a half-shrug.

“It’s alright, we can leave this till later,” said Kathy quietly to Geoff, wiggling the mistletoe in her fingers. “Perhaps we could put this somewhere in the bedchamber tonight, hm?” Geoff’s face became flushed with heat again, but he said nothing and simply squeezed her hand affectionately, before the both of them followed Eli out of the room.

.

Layne was waiting for them downstairs next to a pile of stringed decorations on the ground, along with a strand of fabric bunting which hung above the entrance doors, and a string of brightly-painted nuts and fruit seeds, which ran along an adjacent wall.

Geoff looked up at the bunting on the wall and then down at the pile on the floor. “Hang on, I thought I only saw one strand of this fabric bunting stuff in the box?” he asked in confusion. “And some of these look longer than they did earlier.”

Eli shrugged, a small hint of smugness in his expression. “Duplication spells and extension spells aren’t really a bother for simple items such as these,” he replied. “And it’s all in the spirit of the Winter Festival, right?”

“So what do you think?” Layne asked to Geoff and Kathy.

Kathy looked around at the great stone walls as she thought for a moment, before turning to Eli. “So it’s really not too much effort to put things up wherever you want?” she asked

Eli waved a hand, and sent a string of paper snowflakes high up onto the wall, enough that they would have been level with Geoff’s snout if he were in dragon form. “No trouble at all, so long as I can still see where I’m putting stuff!” he said.

“So easy in fact that sometimes you don’t know when to stop!” said Layne, smirking at Eli with light-hearted teasing.

“Hey, we all make mistakes sometimes!”

Kathy smiled. “Well, I think that that other cloth bunting could go on the wall at the top of the main staircase, and some of those strings of nuts and seeds would work well underneath some of the windows down here,” she said.

“Yes, and perhaps we could string some of those cotton balls up along the staircase banisters,” said Geoff. “Maybe even use the cotton balls for the lower set, and use the snowflakes for the upper set.”

Eli grinned. “All sounds good to me!” he said, and then he began carrying out Kathy and Geoff’s suggestions.

“We might have to leave the bough till tomorrow,” said Layne, “but so long as we don’t forget about it!” He looked at Geoff. “It’s traditional for people to hang a branch of like a pine tree or a fir tree on the outside of their house above the doorway,” he explained. “Something to do with hoping for a prosperous and plentiful new year or something like that, I dunno, but it looks kinda cool, anyway. We just go find a new bough each year; most people do.”

“Oh yeah I think I remember,” said Kathy. “My parents would have a whole archway of evergreen branches outside the doors to our castle. I wonder if maybe we could do the same thing here?”

“Sounds like something Cesar would love, honestly,” said Layne. He paused for a moment. “Where is Cesar, anyway? It’s not like him to be missing out on all this; usually he’d be throwing decorations around left right and centre!”

Geoff cupped his hands around his mouth and looked up in the direction of the bedchambers. “Cesar! You’re missing out on decorating!” he called.

“Uh, I’ll be there in just a moment!” Cesar called back.

A mid-air string of cotton fell to the ground as Eli stopped what he was doing. “Uh oh, I think I know that tone of voice,” he said, eyes narrowing.

“Let me guess,” said Layne, “it’s the ‘I’ve-messed-up-and-I’m-trying-to-stop-you-from-finding-out-about-it voice, right?”

“Takes one to know one!” Eli replied. Layne poked his tongue out at him.

“We better go make sure Cesar is okay,” said Kathy. Geoff nodded and followed her upstairs, with Layne and Eli in tow.

.

The group found Cesar in the hallway outside his bedroom, with a couple handfuls of paper stars and paper flowers in his arms.

“Oh hey guys! And Kathy!” said Cesar. “I didn’t mean to take so long, I’ve just been in my room, this whole time! Just making decorations! Really getting into the swing of things, y’know?” He was attempting to sound like his usual bubbly self, but his smile was strained and didn’t quite reach his eyes.

Kathy took a couple of paper flowers and examined them, impressed.

“You must have a lot of experience making these!” she said. “These two look practically identical to each other!”

“Yeah, well, practice makes perfect and all that!” Cesar replied, his voice now definitely tinged with nervousness (or perhaps guilt, or both).

Eli was looking closely at the paper flowers Kathy was holding, growing even more suspicious as he touched a couple of the petals.

“I don’t suppose you’ve got any more decorations in your room that we could use, Cesar?” he asked. “We’ve got a lot of free space to work with, after all!” He was smiling, but there was a look in Eli’s eyes that said ‘I know there’s something you’re not telling us.’

“Uh, yeah! Sure! Of course!” Cesar replied. “You all just wait here a moment, and I’ll go and grab some more! Here, Geoff, hold these for me!” Geoff was suddenly given the other paper flowers and paper stars to hold.

Eli’s patience was visibly wearing thin. “Cesar, give me one good reason why we shouldn’t go into your room ourselves,” he said.

Cesar hesitated, one hand on his door handle. “Um, because you might see some of the gifts I’ve gotten all of you?” he suggested.

“Nice try, but you usually don’t start gift-shopping until the Winter Markets in town.”

Cesar slumped his shoulders in defeat. “Okay, but can you at least promise not to get mad?” he asked.

Eli looked at Cesar’s anxious expression and sighed. “I promise not to yell or raise my voice at all, but that’s all I can guarantee.”

“Fine, better than nothing, I suppose.”

Then Cesar swung open his bedroom door, and led the others inside.

.

There were a couple moments of silence as Geoff, Kathy, Layne, and Eli stared in shock and surprise at Cesar’s bed, or at least what they assumed to be Cesar’s bed. It was piled high with countless paper flowers, and then there were yet more piles sitting on the floor adjacent. One pile sat separate to the rest, and was a grouping of paper stars rather than flowers.

“So like have you been secretly stocking up on these in preparation for the season or what?” asked Layne, breaking the silence.

“I don’t think we’re gonna have enough boxes for all of these,” said Geoff.

Eli looked a little more around the room, and his eyes landed on one more star and two more flowers sitting on a small table off to the side. These ones were sparkling, as if coated in some special glittery substance. Eli’s eyes widened and his jaw clenched. Then he took a deep breath in, and then out again. “Cesar, have you been in my Magic Room?” he asked, sounding like someone using every ounce of willpower to retain their composure.

“Why, what makes you say that?” Cesar replied, with a last-ditch attempt at innocence.

“Oh, I don’t know. Perhaps because I can recognize Magic Dust when I see it?”

“Oh is that what it’s called? Yeah that makes sense I guess…”

“Cesar-”

Cesar threw up his hands pleadingly. “I can explain! I swear!” Eli folded his arms and looked at him expectantly. “Look, I had been busy making some of these, but then I decided to take a break from paper-folding, and I went for a wander through the castle to get some ideas on the best places to put stuff up…”

“And you happened to pass by my Magic Room?” Eli guessed, raising an eyebrow.

“The door was open! It’s not like I broke in! So I stopped to have a bit of a look inside – from the doorway – and I happened to spot a small pot of this sparkly powder stuff! And I happened to be holding one of the stars I had made, and I thought that the sparkly stuff would make the star look really pretty; I didn’t think it would actually do anything!”

Eli looked at him disbelievingly. “You found it in the Magic Room, and yet you didn’t expect the powder to be magical?” he asked.

Cesar shrugged helplessly. “I kinda wondered if maybe it’d make the star start glowing?” he replied. “But I also kinda just thought it probably wouldn’t do anything because I’m not a magic-user!”

Eli shook his head. “Magic Dust, as it’s most commonly called, is made with finely-crushed metals and/or gemstones, and it’s infused with what is basically magic essence. It doesn’t inherently need a person to provide a source of magic – it pretty much is one. But it seems you more or less figured that out yourself?”

“Yeah, well, I went in and sprinkled some of the ‘Magic Dust’ onto the star I was holding, and I was just thinking about how I would need to make a good few more of them, when suddenly like five extra ones appeared on the table!”

“And yet you then used the Magic Dust again?” said Eli, glancing again at the gargantuan mass of paper flowers.

Cesar looked extremely sheepish. “I guess I did kind of get excited by the idea of saving some time and effort,” he replied. “I went and grabbed one of the flowers I had made and put some of the Magic Dust on it, and then I put some on one of the magic copies it had made, and that’s when it kind of got out of hand.”

Geoff happened to look over at a chair in the room, upon which sat a few matching doublets, each identical to the one that Cesar was currently wearing. “Uh, not to make any assumptions, but did you do any more duplications after that?” he asked.

Cesar saw where Geoff was looking and grimaced. “Look, I was just wiping the Magic Dust stuff off of my fingers! That was a total accident!”

“Well hey, at least we didn’t end up with multiple Cesars!” Layne joked.

Eli remained deadpan. “No, Magic Dust isn’t that powerful, thankfully,” he said. “It’s usually used when a magic-user wishes to apply a spell or enchantment to a specific item and have it last for a long time. But regardless, it is meant to be only handled by magic-users for a reason, and it is not easy to obtain!” Eli took a step towards Cesar, and Cesar immediately cowered away from him.

Fortunately for Cesar, Kathy decided to step in – literally moving to stand between the two men. “Alright, how about we all pause and take a deep breath for a moment?” she said. She turned to Cesar. “Cesar, you should have come to talk to one of us instead of trying to hide it and deal with the problem all yourself. And even ignoring how risky it was for you to go into the Magic Room by yourself and touch things in there, the simple fact of the matter is that you used something you knew didn’t belong to you, without permission!”

Cesar hung his head sadly. “I know, I’m really sorry,” he said, to both Kathy and Eli.

Kathy then turned to Eli. “Eli, obviously you have good reason to be annoyed and upset, but please remember that no one got hurt, nothing got broken, and there was no actual damage caused because of this. Cesar is clearly very remorseful about what he did-”

Cesar nodded emphatically.

“-and I’m sure we can find ways to obtain more Magic Dust if you need it.”

Eli sighed. “Yeah, alright, I guess I can let this one slide,” he said. He held up a finger and pointed it towards Cesar. “But Cesar, never go into my Magic Room by yourself again without my permission!” he said.

“I won’t! I promise! Swear it!” Cesar replied, holding up a hand while placing the other on his chest.

Eli turned and pointed his finger towards Layne. “That goes for you as well!”

Layne looked surprised and indignant. “Me? But I had nothing to do with this!” he protested. Eli fixed him with a Look. “…Yeah, yeah, I promise as well,” said Layne.

“So anyone got any suggestions about getting rid of some of these?” asked Cesar, gesturing to the mass of flowers. “I was thinking about maybe flattening them or tearing them up, but that would kinda take a long time, and I’d still be left with lots of paper!”

“Well, the magic-copy flowers are also just paper, right?” said Layne. “Maybe we could throw some into a fire?”

“Hmm, I guess that wouldn’t have any disastrous consequences,” mused Eli. “I could go light the fireplace in the master bedroom; magic fire for magic flower duplicates, that kinda fits, right?”

“Might still be a little time-consuming, though, depending on how quickly or slowly the paper burns,” said Kathy.

Geoff, meanwhile, looked thoughtful, as he looked towards the pair of Magic-Dust-coated flowers. “Hey Eli, I don’t suppose you could figure out which of these two flowers is a magic duplicate, by any chance?” he asked.

Eli looked at him curiously, but went over and picked up a glittering flower in each hand, eyeing them closely, and even sniffing them. “It’s this one,” he said, holding up the flower in his left hand.

Geoff took it from him and turned to the rest of the group as he explained his idea. “The large majority of the flowers here came from when you put Magic Dust on this magic-copy flower specifically, yes?” Geoff asked. Cesar nodded. “And all the duplicates would be connected to the original thing that was magically copied in the first place, right? Like they appeared specifically because there was a paper flower that was sprinkled with Magic Dust. But if we destroyed this original source flower, then maybe all the copies that sprung from it will be destroyed as well!”

Eli considered the idea, and appeared intrigued by it. “That… sounds like it could work, actually!” he said. “It’s worth a shot, if nothing else!”

“Have you not used Magic Dust for duplication spells before?” Kathy asked Eli.

Eli shook his head. “No, I more use magic dust for stuff like making a candle burn brighter and/or longer, or making an inkwell hold more ink than its size allows, that sort of thing.”

Layne raised a hand. “Uh, if there’s a chance that what happens to the source object will happen to all its copies, then perhaps we shouldn’t throw it into any sort of fire,” he said, as Cesar’s expression became alarmed at the thought of his entire bed setting alight.

Eli snorted. “No, best not to,” he replied. “I could turn it into a small handful of sand, perhaps? Geoff, hold your hand out flat with the flower resting on your palm.” Geoff did as instructed. Eli stretched out his hands and wiggled his fingers in readiness. “Alright, let’s see if this works. Flos semel chartaceus; Nunc tumulus arenae!”

The flower appeared to dissolve on Geoff’s hand, until nothing remained but a small pile of pale sand. Geoff wasn’t sure what to do with the sand, and didn’t want to just drop it on the floor, until he looked over at Cesar’s bed and decided to just let it fall anyway, where it could join some of the other sand in the room.

“It worked!” said Cesar happily, looking at the greatly-reduced scattering of flowers on the bed. “But now my bed’s all sandy, and so is some of the floor!”

“And if you ever touch anything in my Magic Room again without asking, I’ll bring an entire coastline into your bedroom!” said Eli.

Kathy placed a hand on Cesar’s shoulder. “We can help you deal with that later tonight,” she said, “but how about we go get some more decorating done while there’s still daylight left?”

Eli’s expression relaxed into a smile. “Yeah, come on, Cesar, I wouldn’t want you missing out on all the fun!” he said.

Cesar beamed. “Well what are we waiting for, then?” he replied.

Geoff and Kathy hung back for a moment while Layne and Eli followed Cesar out of the room.

“Man, what a day!” said Geoff. “I wonder how other Voluderians get on with this kind of thing, or even just people in other castles, for that matter.”

“I bet they have less fun,” Kathy replied. “And besides, even the most beautifully-decorated castle wouldn’t be of any interest to me if I had no one to share it with.”

“Well I can’t disagree with you there,” Geoff replied, wrapping his arms around her and pulling her close. Kathy pulled out the mistletoe from her pocket and held it above her head with a playful grin. Geoff laughed, but of course was more than happy to oblige her.

[nightghoul381]

Dead or Love ~ Ellis Twilight

This a fan translation so it is definitely not 100% accurate. I do not own anything related to Ikemen Villains. Support Cybird by buying their amazing stories!

Part 1 | Part 2 | Bitter End | Premium End | Epilogue

Ellis: “Beautiful lady over there. Are you meeting someone…?”

The person who came up beside me without making a sound was Ellis.

Kate: “Ellis…”

Ellis: “Thank you for wearing that dress. It looks great on you.”

Ellis: “You’re so cute, and beautiful, and easy to talk to… I was a little nervous.”

Kate: “I never expected you to prepare such a wonderful present for me…Thank you very much.”

Ellis: “Yes, but Christmas is still here…right?”

(Ah…)

Ellis’ hand grabs mine in a fluid gesture.

Kate: “Ellis, that…”

Ellis: “Tonight, I’m your Santa Claus.”

I couldn’t help but laugh at how ridiculous the explanation was.

(It’s Christmas tonight…okay?)

Kate: “Yes, please escort me, Santa.”

Ellis: “Shall we go to the Christmas market first?”

Ellis: “It seems like there will be lots of things that can make you happy.”

As predicted by Santa Ellis, there were many exciting things lined up at the Christmas market.

(Ah, the sweets, and a mini tree!)

Kate: “There’s a nutcracker, Ellis.”

Ellis: “The nutcracker… what was that story about?”

Kate: “The nutcracker is actually a prince and ultimately protects the princess.”

Ellis: “Oh, I see. If that was the story…”

Ellis: “Then you were just cheating on me.”

Kate: “Eh, uh, cheating!?”

Ellis: “Even though I’m right next to you, you’re looking at a prince.”

Kate: “Um, uh, that’s…”

Ellis: “Just kidding… I just wanted to see your cute face.”

Kate: “…already. Please don’t make fun of me.”

Ellis: “…fufu, sorry.”

Still, I see Ellis smiling quietly next to me, looking happy, and it makes me happy too.

That’s why I wanted to step into Ellis’ life just a little bit.

Kate: “What kind of Christmases have you had so far, Ellis?”

Ellis: “Me?”

Ellis: “I see… I guess I’ve been working a lot lately.”

(It seems like Jude is working regardless of Christmas.)

Kate: “Oh, so what about when you were a child?”

Ellis: “My house was a normal house, so I had a Christmas like any other.”

Ellis: “A little bit of a special meal, a little bit of cake after dinner.”

Kate: “Fufu, sounds like fun.”

Ellis: “Oh, and at my parents’ urging, I even wrote a letter to Santa Claus about what I wanted and left it by my bedside.”

Kate: “What did you write as a child, Ellis?”

Ellis: “It was…”

Ellis: “…”

Ellis: “I forgot.”

Kate: “I see. I’m sure your parents were happy that you asked for it…”

Ellis: “Hey, Kate. Aren’t you hungry? I’m starving.”

Kate: “Me too. In that case, we can go to the deli or one of the street stalls I always go to—”

Ellis: “Leave it to Santa Claus today. Let’s go, Kate.”

Kate: “Whoa, Ellis…?”

Ellis starts walking while holding my hand.

(…I’ll indulge Ellis tonight. And he looks like he’s having a great time.)

(What’s that…?)

Suddenly my gaze dropped to Ellis’ feet.

Ellis: “Kate?”

Kate: “Ah, no, it’s nothing. Let’s go, Ellis.”

(Th-this is…)

Ellis escorted me to the first-class lounge of the luxury cruise ship, Orelus.

The pure white table was decorated with flowers, food was lined up, and Ellis and I were sitting across from each other.

Ellis: “It’s only anchored at the port for Christmas.”

(I was given a quick tour.)

Kate: “You made a reservation, right?”

Ellis: “Yeah, I kinda stand out.”

Ellis: “Oh, they’re serving freshly baked bread! Yay!”

Ellis: “It looks like there’s also one with your favorite chocolate, Kate.”

Dining in such a nice place, I enjoy my meal.

Although he said he felt like he stood out, Ellis seems naturally at home here.

Kate: “It’s strange to ask this now, but…”

Ellis: “…hm?”

Kate: “You’re very popular, aren’t you Ellis?”

Ellis: “…What do you think? I don’t know if I’m popular or not.”

Ellis: “I want to be popular with you.”

(Uh…)

Kate: “You’re teasing me like that again…”

Ellis: “You’re evading me like that again.”

Kate: “…don’t imitate me.”

Ellis: “Fufu, I was scolded.”

Then a spot light shone on the stage and the crew members smiled.

Attendant: “We will give away gorgeous and fabulous prizes to everyone who dances during the dance time that is about to take place!”

Perhaps from drunkenness, the voices around us sound like they’re having a good time.

Kate: “It looks like it’s gong to be fun. Shall we join in as well?”

Ellis: “Ah, yeah… Right.”

It was only for a moment, but I could feel the confusion in Ellis’ reply.

(Something isn’t right…and)

Ellis’ gait seemed a little different today.

(Maybe it’s just my imagination, but if something happened.)

Kate: “Ellis, uh…are you okay?”

Ellis: “Kate?”

I take him out to a secluded place and look into Ellis’ eyes.

Ellis: “What’s wrong, Kate?”

Kate: “Um, sorry if I’m wrong.”

Kate: “Ellis, is your leg injured?”

Ellis: “…Ah, that’s…”

(I knew it!)

Kate: “Please show me, how bad is the wound—”

Ellis: “…Kate, don’t get too close!”

When I rolled up the hem of Ellis’ bottoms, I found something I hadn’t expected.

Kate: “What….What is this…”

Ellis: “A time bomb.”

Kate: “T-time…bomb?”

Ellis: “Yesterday, I had another job to do with Jude.”

(Then, you’ve spent all this time with it on.)

Even though it’s a time bomb, there is no way of knowing when it will go off.

This fact sends chills down the spine.

Kate: “W-why did you stay quiet for so long—”

I was taken aback by almost saying that.

(“I want to give you a very special, very happy Christmas.”)

(It’s, because you promised me?)

I swallowed hard and pulled Ellis’s pant leg back down.

Ellis: “I’m sorry for keeping quiet, Kate.”

Kate: “…It’s okay. I’m really glad it didn’t explode...”

Kate: “So, how do we disarm it?”

Ellis: “Jude will figure it out in time.”

(Jude is strict, but he always keeps his promises… I’m sure he’ll be okay.)

Kate: “Okay. Once we get off this ship, let’s try not to walk around as much as possible.”

Ellis: “Okay. In that case—”

After getting of the ship, we headed to the church where he had planned to meet up with Jude.

When we step into the church, instead of a tranquil atmosphere, we find--.

Ellis: “Ah…”

Part 1 | Part 2 | Bitter End | Premium End | Epilogue

[violadiaries]

Fluffcember Day 10 - Carols

@fluff-cember

Fandom: Tensura

Pairing: Guy Crimson x Leon Cromwell

Guy looked around the capital of El Dorado, somewhat fascinated by the lights glistening illuminating everything. Leon hadn't been in, when he had arrived at the castle. And everyone had been rather unwilling to tell him where exactly the lord of the castle had vanished to as well. It hadn't been the first time, so Guy was somewhat accustomed to waiting for Leon. Though maybe he should start actually announcing himself before he just showed up at Leon's place. That might prevent situations such as these to occur.

"Lord Guy, please go back to the castle."

Guy laughed and shook his head. He kept looking around. While he had heard of this Christmas thing that was celebrated in El Dorado, he had not yet heard of this special market going on right now. And Claude had said something about it. Which he definitely was regretting now, at least going by the way he was running after Guy.

"Aw, don't be like that, Claude. I like El Dorado during winter. I'll behave, Leon won't notice a thing," Guy called back to him.

Though, Guy decided, it was Leon's own fault. For not anticipating Guy's visit. Yes, that did sound more like it. He should have at least noticed Guy arriving, and coming back from where ever he had run off to this time. One thing Guy had been sure of was that he hadn't been in the castle.

Guy stopped at a stall, looking at the small ornaments on display. While also allowing Claude to catch up to him. Leon's knights were always so painfully fun to tease. Just like their Lord and Master. But Guy did still have some amount of respect for them. At least the stronger ones.

"I am under strict orders, Lord Guy," Claude said.

He wasn't out of breath in the slightest. A testament to his endurance, as Guy had not been lenient with his speed. Though he did not expect anything less of the one chosen by Leon as the leader of his army.

And always the one having to babysit him, whenever Guy showed up while Leon was out of his castle. In a way did Guy pity him. Surely he had much more important things to take care off. But then again, it was also partly Leon's fault.

"Now come on, it's…"

Guy trailed off as his eyes were drawn to another stall. Though not the wares were intriguing him, but rather the sole customer looking at them. Guy couldn't see much of him, but he did know him to be a man. With shoulder length silver hair, reflecting the light surrounding them in a slight mint colour.

"Who's that?" he asked.

Though the thing that had ultimately drawn Guy's attention to that particular man, was what he could sense. Or rather what he couldn't. The way he was expertly hiding his magic power. Appearing much weaker than he definitely was. Though the only thing Guy could tell was that something was off. That he was hiding just a little bit 

Claude followed his trail of view, before temporarily stiffening. Guy almost wouldn't have noticed it, if he hadn't looked at the knight in the right moment. He did stay silent for a while longer, before letting out a long sigh.

"Most likely an adventurer, why did you ask?" he answered.

Guy smiled at that and turned his gaze back onto the stranger. He simply could not believe that Claude was not fully informed what kind of adventurers entered and left El Dorado. Just in case one of them could pose a threat to Leon.

Not that there were many who could match him. Especially not when he did get serious about fighting. Which he did by far not often enough for Guy's liking. But it was somewhat endearing how his subordinates still cared for him in this way. It was a testament to their loyalty.

"I see. Go back already, I've found my past time," he said.

Something was very interesting about this man he was seeing. And Guy wanted to know what exactly it was that drew him in. So he would follow him around a little bit. Right now he didn't seem to have noticed Guy yet. Though Guy himself was hiding his power as well.

Claude let out another sigh before shaking his head. There was something the knight wasn't telling him, and Guy was very sure he also wouldn't proceed doing so, even if Guy threatened of tortured him. Which he wouldn't do, because then Leon would get angry at him.

"Lord Leon will not be appreciative if you harass visitors to his country," Claude said.

Guy chuckled and nodded. He wouldn't harass him. He would back off when he noticed that his advances weren't welcome. He did know how to take a serious no after all. And he just wanted to have a little bit fun, until Leon was ready to entertain him.

Ultimately he first wanted to claim Leon as his, before he pursued another interest. After all, while his 'no's were given out freely to Guy, they were never that serious in tone. More annoyed, because Guy decided to flirt with him in public.

"I won't harass him, I just wanna say hi. And then I'll come straight back to the castle, promise," Guy said.

He would just see what was up with this man, and whether or not the secret was worth knowing. And then go back and wait for Leon. Or maybe by then Leon would already be waiting for him to come back. Guy turned his attention to the knight next to him, as he crossed his arms in front of his chest.

"Come on, surely you have more important things to do, than play babysitter for me. I'll explain it to Leon, if he finds out," he added.

He definitely would, after all it wouldn't be Claude's fault, if Leon found out. Unless he told him himself, then it totally was his fault. But it wasn't his fault, that Guy wanted to have a little fun and was bored.

And even if he didn't have anything else to do for the night, he could definitely use some time off from his duties. To just relax and take care of himself. All of those knights were as big workaholics as their master, really.

"Fine, but please, I beg you, Lord Guy, do not cause a disturbance," Claude said.

Guy brightly smiled at him and nodded. Partly glad to be rid of his babysitter, to freely roam this Christmas market thing.

He did wave after him, as Claude retreated, walking back to the castle. A slight slump in his step, so unlike the uptight knight Guy knew rather well by now.

"I won't~ See ya~" he called after him.

Guy watched as he vanished within the masses, before he turned around to view his new target again. His smile turning more predatory, as he slowly approached the stand. The man was still looking at the wares in front of him, once in a while looking up as the shop keep said something to him.

He pretended to be another customer, looking at the wares. Magic stones, and of high quality at that. Guy could see what had drawn an assumed adventurer here. Especially if he would be able to use magic to some extent. Or was able to craft something from this. As he stood next to him, he finally was able to get a proper look at him as well. Hair neatly tied back into a low pony tail, orange eyes firmly focused on the wares. A scar running down the right side of his face, from the forehead, over his eye, to the cheekbone and vanishing beneath he scarf he had wrapped around the lower half of his face. Though it didn't diminish the mysterious type of good looks he had. If anything it enhanced them. Beneath the cloak Guy had seen from behind he was wearing a rather tight, outfit. At least what Guy could see. Dark pants, clinging to his legs and some belts, holding various pouches in place. Standard adventurer garb, from what he knew.

Guy put on his best smile, as the man turned his head, to look at him. Only mustering once him before turning back to the stones he held in his hand. He seemed to contemplate a little bit longer, before putting one back and putting the other in his bag. Taking out enough coins to pay it. He walked away without taking the change he definitely would have gotten.

"Always a pleasure!" the shop keep called after him.

Guy looked at the stone he hadn't taken, as he heard the shop keep let out a nervous sigh. As he looked up the man was still looking after the adventurer. So it was him the shop keep had been nervous about.

Guy looked to the stones. Even he could tell all of them were incredibly high quality. So the man should have nothing to worry about, right?

"Tough customer?" Guy asked.

He'd definitely stoop as low, as to engage in small talk, just to figure out more about this adventurer. He did follow his energy through the masses though. Just to not lose him.

The shop keep looked at him, a strained smile on his face.

"Lir? Nah, I mean, not really. He's just a bit…intense, I guess. Never speaks, but always takes incredibly high grade materials and stuff. Some even whisper that he's secretly working for King Leon, to make sure the wares in the market are the real deal, and no fakes," he explain.

Guy had halfway tuned him out after the first word. He had heard that name before after all. Though the rest of it was rather informative as well. Had that been why Claude had been so secretive about this man. He wasn't a simple adventurer, but reported right back to Leon?

That could be. That would also explain why he was able to hide his power so effectively. Yet that wouldn't explain why Guy wasn't allowed to know about it. He had met every single one of Leon's direct subordinates in the past after all. So why not this one?

Guy thanked the shop keep and went on to follow this 'Lir'. Still wondering where exactly he had heard that name before. He just knew he had heard it before. But it wouldn't come to him where. It was annoying him incredibly much. 'Lir''s next stop was at a stall selling sweets. Where Guy got to know, that he always, without fail, bought them for the children from the orphanage. Though the mass too big this time. Stumping the elderly lady selling the sweets.

His seemingly last stop was a stage. Surrounded by the lights, making it the perfect place in the market. Creating a serene and calm atmosphere. In front some people were walking, some standing. 'Lir' stood still close to a table, watching the stage. Or rather the kids, standing on the stage and singing. Right, Guy had heard that before. He had tuned it out though. They weren't even good after all. Though as he watched 'Lir', his expression softened, as he watched the kids, Guy did remember. He had seen the name on a gravestone. The one in the inner most garden of the castle. When he had asked Leon, he had just answered that 'Lir' had been a friend. Guy always knew not to pry any more.

But that name was anything but common. Though another possibility, checking all the boxes, crossed Guy's mind. Not many people saw him and just didn't react after all. Leon hadn't all those years back then. Having been thoroughly unimpressed by Guy. And now this man. Being rumoured to be a subordinate of him. While Leon was nowhere to be found, and Claude had been rather secretive about why.

Guy's smile formed into a grin as he approached the man again. Coming to a halt next to him, pretending to be listening to the kids as well. He had to say, if it hadn't been for that, he wouldn't have known. Most likely at least.

"Leave if you won't listen. It's disrespectful for the children," 'Lir' said.

Guy chuckled. His voice was a little bit on the lighter side, than Leon's. Though with magic as strong as that of Leon many things could be made possible. Especially changing something simple as an appearance or a voice.

But Guy knew that Leon cared so very much about all the citizens of his country. And especially the children. He just hadn't thought that he never went to see them outright. But rather disguised.

"Why are they singing? And always songs with the same theme," Guy asked.

'Lir' sighed and shook his head, his eyes not leaving the children on the stage. Gloved hands clasped together, appearing to want to keep out the cold. They were essentially singing the same themes over and over again. Praising Leon, or having invented some kind of romantic story. Guy had to say, he started to like it.

He turned his gaze to Guy again. Guy grinned at him, as he let out another drawn out sigh. Now that Guy was actually paying attention to it, he could hear the music from everywhere on the market. It did make for a great atmosphere.

"They are called 'carols'. Christmas carols to be exact. The children are singing them, to practice gratitude, so I've been told," he explained.

Guy nodded and scooted closer to him. He liked the more romantic ones best. He did wonder which ones Leon liked the best. Though Guy was more than sure that he wouldn't find out about it anytime soon.

Guy looked back to the children. Objectively speaking, they weren't good. At all. Though they did put in the effort. And that must be what seemed to be so endearing to Leon-…'Lir'. He always had possessed this soft heart, even when he wanted other to think he was cold as ice.

"I think I like it," Guy said.

'Lir' huffed and shrugged his shoulders. He stole some glances here and there at Guy, but didn't say anything else. Just kept his silence, and listened to the carols. Pretty much all of them were child friendly though. Guy wondered who had thought of the texts. He definitely had not heard of something like this on the main continent.

Though that surely was the result of this coming from another world. Which was relatively common in El Dorado, seeing as most of the higher ups, as well as the king, came from this other world. Both of them did raise their eyebrows when one a little bit more explicit came up. Guy grinned while 'Lir' just stared. His disguise momentarily slipping. It was only a split second, but Guy did spot familiar blue eyes and familiar blond hair. As well as a familiar, very pretty face.

"I think I like this one the most," Guy whispered.

Leon glared at him, before he turned away. So this really was what was going on. Leon going around his own kingdom in disguise, so to not attract too much attention. And obviously his higher ranking knights knew about this. Having vowed not to tell anyone. Not even Guy.

Leon pushed himself away from the table and approached a young woman, standing close to the stage. He had his scarf pulled up high again, making him look somewhat dubious. She did seem to recognize him though, and readily accepted the pouches with the sweets he had earlier bought. Afterwards, he approached Guy again and pulled him away with him. Off to a little alleyway, away from the attention. Though thanks to the lights having been hung up everywhere, still as bright. The song still ringing in the distance. Other's starting to play it from magic devices as well. A song talking about a king blessing a demon for this holy occasion. Their king blessing a demon.

"What are you even doing here?! Can you go about this the normal way for once and announce yourself?" Leon hissed at him.

Leon was facing him again, though not dropping his disguise. He had pulled the scarf down somewhat though, causing Guy to see the full extent of his changed face. Still as pretty as Guy liked it. Even if the scar gave him somewhat of a rugged appearance. Leon had probably thought it would make him look unattractive of something, so he wouldn't draw attention to himself.

"Could you answer me, Lord Guy?" Leon said.

Guy chuckled at the way he almost hissed the 'Lord' at him, just so he could keep up pretences. He liked it. It was different. And maybe Guy could even get away with being even more forward. After all they weren't amongst others anymore. Even if the sounds from the market carried to them. Guy cornered Leon against the wall of a house, smirking at him.

"But it's much more fun like this~" he purred.

Leon flinched and looked around. He let out a quiet string of curses, so unlike him, as he noticed what kind of situation he had brought himself into.

"Maybe you can…convince me to not tell Leon about this," Guy said.

If Leon wanted to keep this game up, Guy would play along. He didn't mind to do so actually. It was fun after all. And he would like to know how far Leon would be willing to take this game, before he fessed up.

Leon let out a long sigh and shook his head. He looked around, as Guy decided to throw caution to the wind and press his lips against Leon's. As soft as he knew they were. Leon did stiffen, but he did not push him away like Guy had anticipated. He hesitated for a moment, before he retaliated by wrapping his arms around Guy's neck, as he closed his eyes.

Guy didn't hesitate to attack Leon's neck next, using his hand to push that bothersome fabric of the cloak and scarf out of the way. It was annoying him. But because it was Leon he would make sure to be careful and not rip the outfit to shreds.

"How…ha…how do you think…Lord Leon would react…if he knew…" Leon breathed out.

He did not make one move to get away from Guy. Rather he pulled him closer, contrary to what he was saying. This was enough confirmation that Guy needed to not give up pursuing Leon anytime soon. Though maybe next time he would let him come closer, while he wasn't wearing a disguise.

Guy grinned as he thought back to the song. The Christmas Carol, as Leon had called it. If he paid any mind to it, he could still hear it in the air. Though right now the sight in front of him was more alluring. Leon letting him roam his hands so freely as well.

"Maybe he'll…'bless' me, for this holy occasion. Let's see, when I'll tell him," Guy breathed.

Leon stiffened at that, before he let out a shaky breath. Still not pushing Guy away. Still giving into his advances.

Oh yes, Guy had decided he liked this festivity very much, and even more the songs being sang during it.

[ell-vellan]

You know what I miss?

(I'm gonna show my age here with this very specific and niche memory but bear with me. Or don't, whatever!)

Back when I was a kid, middle/high school ish, I frequented Gaia Online. I'm not even sure how to really describe that site (if you remember it, help me out here) but it was mainly an anime-esque forums where people could make different communities about a million different things, but it wasn't just forums. You had an anime avatar that followed you around the site, a currency you used to buy dress up items for your avatar, mini games and a a marketplace. Pretty sure there was some kind of stock market.

This was my online home for years.

I landed, somehow, on the Adoptables forums. Shops, technically, for people to "adopt" pets and then roleplay with them together. Some were original make believe worlds - one of the more popular I can remember was a world of wolf packs with their own lore and setting.

Specifically I remember being active on the Lion King RP forums called I think Shadows of Africa? The artists who ran them would sell colored lineart of lions in the style of the movie, with a little info card that displayed their name and the owner (you).

You couldn't roleplay with other people until you officially had a character through purchase, gift, or contest prize.

Each lion was unique and people gave them names from African languages (that was a rule). People formed entire prides and had special forums just for them, with rosters of who had what character, where you could "hang out" with others in your pride. Your lion would be able to age from cub to teen to adult after you had roleplayed a certain amount of time and applied for it with the artists. Your characters could find mates and breed and the artists would (for Gaia currency) remix the "DNA" of your two characters and you'd get a random number of cubs you could "give away" to friends or even hold contests for others who wanted to play.

I was just thinking about these communities and how much I loved everyone there. How much work these artists put into these communities, often without any real compensation except for pretend money. How elaborate they were. Giant games of pretend with strangers online. I did SO much writing on those RP forums, I actually feel in retrospect like it was a safe place to cut my teeth on writing and it was literally from the point of view from an OC Lion King character.

And there were so many shops like this.

I'm sure there was toxicity in some aspects of these communities, but I don't remember it, at least not to the level of toxicity the Internet gets to now. Maybe it's my rose colored glasses.

But every Christmas, these Adoptables shops would open up for people to Secret Santa gifts to your friends: a randomly colored gift, the .jpg or whatever sent to your inbox, that you could post in your profile or your journal. And on Christmas day, the artists would update all those images, and the wrapped gift would be replaced by a unique pet, randomly created for you by whatever colorists were working for the shop.

Like YES okay I understand how very childish it sounds now. Maybe even cringe.

But I've never found another sort of community like it. (Maybe discord, idk, I was too old and busy to get into discord when it came out.) So many artists doing so much work, just for others to play with pretend pets with their online friends and write silly stories about them together. These were people making dozens, hundreds of unique designs by hand, as far as I'm aware. Their workload had to be stressful. They were probably doing this in between studying or working real jobs.

But to this day, every Christmas, I think about those Secret Santa gifts. And every year I miss that excitement of logging in first thing to see all your gifts 'magically' hatch into adorable little creatures that were unique and yours.

This post doesn't have a point except I'm in my mid-30s and I still miss my online friends that I used to play pretend lions with in middle school. And nothing else has quite matched the very specific excitement of those secret Santa gifts becoming 'real' on Christmas.

And I'm so, so thankful to all the people - likely college students and adults - who did all this work just for fun. And I wanted to share this memory of some old communities that I still think back on fondly. I hope they're doing well in life, wherever they are.

[alarrytale]

“I also think he's facing pressure to do recidencies and play Az*ff venues, and i'm not sure how he feels about having to cater even more to the american market and only ever seeing things in terms of cash, if it means ignoring the rest of the world.”

Do you think H didn’t enjoyed his residency shows that much too? To me it looked that many shows were very repetitive, his typical dances looked more like ran on autopilot than genuine and the only shows he looked like he’s enjoying more were those 5 in Chicago. So I hope he will make some compromise if there’s a pressure on him carter to american market/do resindencies at Az*ff venues that he will also do more shows in EU like the last time (he played some venues twice or even thrice) because undoubly his best shows were in EU/UK because he looked he can be more his gay self, showing some mannerism. And of course, very special ones were in LatAm because it was after h*livia sh*tshow and he beamed like sun, looking so happy and playful.

Hi, anon!

Yes, i don't think he enjoyed it much. I agree with you that it looked like he was on autopilot, he lacked his usual spark, and the audience were the same (people went to several shows), was very het and unresponsive. He looked like a kid at Christmas when he left the US and had his first show in Latam. Different energy and the spark was back (Leave America was back too and he loved it).

The MSG run followed by the Inglewood run was too much. Fans were bored by the Inglewood run, and H seemed boored too. The Hollywood celebs in the VIP era every night made me barf. I can't imagine if he's to do another MSG run followed by 20 dates at the Sphere in Vegas. Nobody wants that besides the Azo*fs. Free him.

[shojizbae]

Chuseok

Min Ho x Fem! Reader

Masterlist

♨︎☤♨︎✄

Chuseok arrived soon enough, meaning Principal Han gave speeches to the class on the importance of family and then reminded us to study hard for finals. This also meant that the majority of the school was going home for the week we were given to ourselves and 'family'. Unfortunately, when I text my dad that he should expect me home in about 48 hours all he responded with was 'why'.

message received he doesn't want me around. I wish all my roommates a happy Chuseok as I see their smiles. they all are happy to go home to their parents. I decide to visit the family plot and pray for my brothers' health.

I feel homesick.

I put on my headphones and opened the mother's notebook. It's full of all my mom and grandma's best recipes. It's a tradition in our household that I prepare our special maejakgwa. Mom used to make them every Christmas, Chuseok, and birthday but she can't really do that anymore. Luckily, Kitty is planning a friendsgiving and needs help at the market.

She meets me at my dorm to help me pick out an outfit. I'm still struggling to accommodate all the new choices. Not much familiar. She picks out a pair of slightly platform vans, and a knit, a green-striped mini dress which is a little showy for my tastes. There's a slight wind chill today, so she pairs to be in a different denim jacket than the other day. Seriously Min Ho bought like nine of these.

She puts my wallet, tampons, and other doodads from my last purse into a cross-body bag from YSL. Then she ushers me out of school and into a bus. The city is a little less crowded with all the college kids home for the holiday. That doesn't mean that the families that do live in the city don't the marketplace an absolute zoo. Kitty doesn't have a clue how to read any of the labels so I translate while she fiddles with a playlist of Tik Toks. I show her the bargains but she insists on getting the exact products used in her tik toks.

Kitty is insistent on getting a very pricy bottle of soy sauce. I try to tell her no but she places it in the cart. we move down the aisle. We're doing well until Min Ho approaches,

"What are you doing here?" He asks Kitty, still oblivious to my presence.

"We are getting ingredients for Chuseok dinner."

"Do you even know what you would do with this?" he holds up a bag of rice cakes

"Yes, I do! C'mon Kitty, we only need a few more things." I grab her enormous cart and grunt it forward. Min Ho catches up with us. Probably because I can only go snail speed with the massive cart.

"Here let me help you," he put his very small basket in our cart nad pushed forward. He retuned most of the supplies claiming he already had it up in his dorm.

"Min Ho, who are you buying chocolate strawberries for?" Kitty picks up a heart shaped box

"Someone." he snatches the box back and his phone dings "Ooh it's Lulu, we've been flirting since her trainee days." something in me wilts. That's new.

He ushers us to the registers and it takes much less time to check out if I let Kitty take the ropes. Min Ho brings us to his driver and has him load our groceries in. It feels weird to let people serve me. Were driven back and go right back to the Song-Ho dorm.

Kitty and I put their groceries up in the refrigerator and in the cabinets while Min Ho puts on a movie. It's one that his mom starred in. I missed the tragic opening scene of the movie as I sort out the groceries I need for my recipes.

Min Ho plops down in the center of the left cushion and Kitty joins him at a comfortable distance at the center of the right cushion. This leaves an awkward situation. There isn't enough space to sit between Kitty and the armrest. This means that I have to sit between the two of them. I take my jean jacket off so I don't scratch either of them with the buttons.

Kitty scoots closer to the armrest when I sit and I focus in on the plot. the premise is an uber successful businesswoman whose conglomeration is just a front for her underground ring. Because of Korean censorship laws, they couldn't actually show real drugs but it's heavily implied that she's creating and selling some crazy hallucinogen. The twist though is that she starts to fall in love with one of her lackeys who recently got hooked on her products. This lackey is tied to the company because he's using his labor to pay off his debt. I heard that the movie ends with his mom pregnant because of course no woman is truly fulfilled until she's a mother.

I watch Min Ho's amber eyes light up as he recounts details and stories from the set. From the skeezy director who was hooking up with a sound tech girl. To the producer who showed up drunk every two weeks. He tells me how one arts producer almost quit because he had to keep rebuilding props. and even the fight that went down between the hair designers and the costume team. I start to lose interest though when he brags about the crafty that he hooked up with while his mom performed a very emotional monologue. I swivel my head back to the TV screen as she begins that very monologue.

Her sorrowful words bring tears to my eyes but weight over rules that as I feel exhaustion kicks in. Man, I didn't realize I was this tired. The world swirls to pitch black as I hear his mom sigh and lament.

♨︎☤♨︎✄

I awake to someone gently but incessantly poking my cheek. I peel open my eyes and wipe the crust from my eyelashes. I catch the trail of droll that rolls down the corner of my mouth.

"Man you are not a pretty sleeper."

"Min Ho!" Q, I think yells from the kitchen "That is not nice!"

"I'm just saying, you snore like an ogre." I feel the seam of a blanket tickle my chin as I try to swivel my stiff neck.

"Why is there a blanket on me?" I sit up and let the blanket fall to my waist

"Huh,"

"Why is there a blanket on me?" I inquire with some 'tude

"Because I didn't want you to get cold." min ho mutters but I'm still half asleep so comprehension is still kind of out the window

"What was that Minnie?"

"I didn't want you to get cold!" he half yells half whines

"Aww, you can be sympathetic." I stand up and drape the blaket on his shoulders using it as leverage to pull him close to my face "That's sweet." I tug one side so it flies off his neck and wrap it around my shoulders.

in the Kitchen Q and Kitty are still pulling gout take-out containers. I grab a pair of chopsticks and steal a box of shrimp lomein. Q picks out a pox of fried chicken and some pork fried rice, and Kitty produces a white box of crab rangoon which she munches on happily. Min-ho returns to his room and scoffs at us. he digs through the fridge and pulls out a cabbage and starts chopping it up.

"Are you making Kim Chi for Chuseok?" Dae inquires

"Yeah,"

""Aw man. I almost wish I wasn't going home."

"You're lucky you get to go home. You don't have to be poisoned at Chuseok by Min Ho's kimchi"

"You will not be poisoned, my kimchi is nothing short of orgasmic." I stop and pause with my chopsticks an inch away from my mouth.

"That's disgusting, I suddenly would much rather sleep completely alone in my dorm now." I collect my jacket and my bag of groceries and hike back to the girl's dorm. It's cold and empty in the dorm, I have to turn on every light to see anything. I toss my jacket into oblivion bit then I pause and pick it up and hang it on the coat rack.

I switch the TV on for a source of white noise. The news anchor drones on in Korean about some scandal or another. I circle back to the bag of groceries and start disbursing them throughout the shelves. The majority of our food is freezer meals, sodas, and snacks so I did drop a few dollars on flour. I decide to call it a night. The dorm is lonely, there is no waiting for an obscene amount of time to use the bathroom. I just march right in and line up the products I'll need. I won't need to hide them for the next 6 days.

huh

I clean the bathroom after I've cleansed and wiped and moisturized and serum my face. No one is going to screw this up. I think as I observe the spotless space

huh

With a final brush to my teeth and an adjustment to my braids, I turn the bathroom lights out and lock the front door to the dorm. I flip off the lights in my dorm and tug my hoodie hood up. I pull my covers on and plug my phone in and scroll through Tik Toks. I poke a leg out and flip over on my mattress. I toss and turn for another forty minutes before exhaustion consumes me.

♨︎☤♨︎✄

I arise with perfectly soft and styled hair, and cute matching silky pajamas. Min Ho is in my kitchen preparing me a macchiato without his shirt on.

"Good morning gorgeous." he holds the cup up to me and I hold it. It's the perfect temperature and its tastes lovely when I take a sip. I lick my bottom lip of some loose foam. Min Ho walks around the counter and stands really close to my face. He smells warm and clean, like fresh laundry. In fact, his body radiates warmth.

"Uh oh, You've got a little something." He brings his thumb up to my lip and swipes excess foam off my lip. He puts his thumb to his lips and gently runs his tongue along it. Everything seems to slow down and time ticks by "Well, that was sweet," He leans in and kisses me. He leans back and his eyes flit between mine. I curl up to my tippy toes and kiss him again and his tongue licks across my bottom lip. I open my mouth and let him in.

His kiss feels incredible.

I put my cup on the counter and wrap my arms around his neck. He grabbed me at the back of my thighs, not my ass, just below. I jump up on him and he grabs on tight. He marches me into my room and sets me on the mattress. Everything feels silky, the sheets, his hair, his pajama pants, his skin. His lips feel like warm velvet cake and his body weight feels so comfortable.

I wrap my legs around his waist and he runs his hands up my neck and through my hair. He's locked in and I start rolling my hips against his groin. He feels hot against me. Everything feels hot and silky. In a startling and almost abrupt manner, I feel an oncoming orgasm. My body feels somewhere between weightless and tingling.

I wake up with a startle before I can climax.

My body was shaking. My feet feel like they're full of pins and needles. I walk around and look in the mirror. I try to look at myself but I feel so disgusted. It's not even light out I notice as I take a glance to the window.

I grab my phone and text Q

'emergency hike as soon as you wake up' 02:33

'now?" 02:34

'Oh shit, I guess' 02:34

I run into my room and find some better clothing. All I'm wearing is a hoodie and underwear. I put on a clean pair of underwear and some calf-high socks. I find a cute body suit with a chest cut out and high hips. I find a matching tech wear joggers and cropped hoodie set and throw that on with a pair of high-rise vans. I didn't take the time to put in contacts or put on makeup I just grabbed my phone and ran out the door. Q was waiting for me looking just as glowing as he normally did.

"How do you look so pretty at four in the morning?" I tuck my glasses up

"There is no need for you to be asking me questions. Why did you call an emergency hike? You were so opposed to hiking earlier?"

"Well that's because I didn't want to be around a bunch of people to just stare at me."

"Well you picked a good time, any sane person is still asleep."

"Yeah, that reminds me, why aren't you in bed?"

"Because you texted."

"Well, yeah but," We hit the first hill on the path

"Quit stalling, why did you text me?" He gives me a punitive look in my eyes. I stall until we've reached the apex, and begin our decent

"Uhh, I had a dream."

"Alright Dr. King, about what?"

"Umh about, Min Ho-"

"YOU HAD A SEX DREAM ABOUT MIN HO!"

"Well, um yeah sorta. We didn't have sex but we were making out and it was like hot."

"Ok, so do you think you like Min Ho?"

"No, I'm actually repulsed by him, but like my brain clearly wants me to like him. I'm just, I'm simply lost. Like I have a tangy feeling in my mouth just thinking about kissing him."

"Could that just be morning breath?"

"maybe, but what does this mean? I've never, er I've never really had. sex dream before."

"Never?"

"Well, not this vivid. I had one but it was like I was getting caressed by all these shadows and you could see hands and mouth coming out and attaching to my body but it was no one specific."

"That sounds hot."

"That's not the focus! what am I supposed to do Q?

"I think you should ask Min Ho to be your date to Chuseok."

"I don't think I should get a date to chuseok, especially since he's supposed to be hooking up with Lulu some time soon."

"Lulu she's totally gorgeous and has a beautiful singing voice and she's great at dancing."

"Q" I whined "You're not helping."

"Oh, so you like him?"

"NO, I'm repulsed by him."

"But you dreamt about making out with him?"

"I don't know Q," we round the corner which brings us to the end of the trail "This whole thing is so weird. It's like He's so physically hot that I would be attracted to him scientifically. But his personality is just repulsive. His ego makes me nauseous but every once in a while there is this crack in his persona. You can see this like, genuinely caring and gentle person. But his goodness doesn't outweigh his horrible terribleness."

"Well, maybe you should just make out with him and see if it fucks up your psyche."

"That's terrible."

"You should just try kissing him. Get this out of your system and then see if he wants to keep kissing you or you to him."

"That's nauseating." we reenter the school grounds and sit in the little circle with a cherry blossom tree.

"Well you were the one who dreamed about him all nakey and rubbing up on you."

"Uh gross, I need to go wash my brain and body with holy water."

"No, look, the sun is about to rise!" he points me toward the sky and we get to see the beautiful sunrise. It's so wonderful. It makes my mind clear almost instantly. I look at the conglomeration of colors. The many swirling clouds of violet ad tangerine swirl into a lovely rose to tint the clouds. I sigh and run through all the possibilities of if or If I were not to kiss him.

Every time I come upon a negative answer I just look back into the sky and I see the swirling rainbow. The world looks so pretty when you're not worried about it.

"Alright, we're going to need to get back to the dorm if we want at least an hour of sleep in us before classes." Q shakes me but I remain fixed on the sky

"Why bother, let's just skip."

"No, we don't skip this is a boarding school. Have you forgotten where you are?"

"No,"

"Well maybe you've forgotten who you are."

"Maybe. Ever since this whole transformation I really feel like a whole new girl. I've never felt the desire to rebel like this. What's wrong with me?"

"Nothing, you're doing what normal people do at 12. Some sort of sexual awakening mixed with the urge to rebel."

"You sound like me," I finally get up and join him. We walk back to the dorms. Well I to mine and him to his. I shower thoroughly and brew coffee instead of just using instant coffee. I blare music through the kitchen speakers and sing along to my heart's content. While the coffee brews, I dance around and get dressed. I've got my shirt half-buttoned and tucked sloppily into the skirt. I'm halfway through tugging my left sock on when my front door opens. I scream and topple over.

"Oh my god! Don't ever make that sound again!" from the ground I see Min Ho plugging his ears. He looks handsome in his school uniform, mmm but his tie is sloppy.

"Min Ho," I stand up and brush myself off "Ughh, Alexa volume two. Min Ho, how did you get in?"

"You left your door unlocked. Someone could have broken in." He closes the door behind himself and I hear the lock click.

"Why'd you lock the door?"

"So no one could interrupt us," he stalk closer to me and hold me around my waist. "You know coffee seems to be a good taste on your tongue." He kisses me again. It's even more heated than the first one. Except this time it's real. I can feel the warmth of his body against mine.

"UH (Y/n)?" Q shakes me awake "(Y/n), you were drooling into your coffee." I grunt myself awake and take in my surroundings. I'm not in my dorm, I'm in the boy's dorm. I've got contacts in and I'm quite neatly dressed. Even someone had french braided my hair. Kitty.

I scan over and see that Min Ho, too is very neatly dressed and his tie has been placed impeccably. Except he's not in his uniform he's just dressed for a business meeting.

"Why are you dressed so fancy?"

"I told you we're going to have a photo shoot. If the press sees what charity I've done it'' will reflect well that my mother has raised a gentle and caring son."

"And why am I being used as a pawn to further your mother's success?"

"Because I gave you a makeover. Scratch that I gave you the opportunity not to die a virgin." I slap Min Ho sharp across the jaw

"You deserve the makeover." I point in his face "I may have been ugly on the outside, but you are far worse. Your insides are hideous, you're a slimy festering worm, a conglomerate of all things evil culminating on the insides." I punctuate most of my words with a poke to his chest. Slowly I back him into a wall.

"Woah what the hell is happening?" Dae questions

"This better not be another dream," I push the door open behind us

"Another dream?"

"(Y/n), you're drooling again?" Dae shakes my shoulder

"Fuck I need to get some sleep." I wipe my eyes "And not have a sex dream." and groan into a pillow

"I'm sorry, what?"

"You're continuously having sex dreams?" I hear Min Ho say from the kitchen.

"No,"

"Who are they about?"

"None of your business. Dae shouldn't you be home?"

"I was just about to leave, but you were groaning in your sleep. Are you alright."

"I'm fine. Go home Dae," I put a hand on his shoulder.

He seems ready to leave, picking up phis duffel and almost running out of the room.

"How did I end up here?"

"Q said you passed out after taking a hike with him at four in the morning. We didn't have your card so we couldn't get into your dorm."

"Wait wait wait, before we go any further, am I dreaming?"

"You just woke up?"

"Yeah well, I've been fooled before."

"you're awake. Oh how do you say to a photoshoot with me after chuseok?"

"Holy shit am I psychic? Or is this deja vu?"

"what are you talking about?"

"I swear I just had this conversation with you. But in my dream."

"Oh, so you are having sex dreams and dreaming about me?"

"Sorta, but in this last dream I was just yelling at you. You seemed kind of turned on by it." he rears back

"So you're having multiple sex dreams about me?" I sit up and tuck my knees in

"Sort of? I was talking to a friend and they said I should just try to make out with you to get out of my system."

"What, who said that?"

"I'm not going to reveal my sources."

"Well why don't you try and kiss me and get it out your system."

"Because that's gross."

"Well, you're the one who's dreaming about it."

"I should have never told you, I knew this would go poorly."

"If you don't kiss me, maybe I'll just kiss you."

"Oh brother," I drop my face into a nearby pillow

"What," he drags me back up by my shoulder. He smiles and it just feels magnetic

"That's something you would have said in those dreams. Something super cliche and Wattpad-y"

"Well, If I kiss you what will happen?"

"I don't know," I gasp as he leans with gently puckered lips. I put a hand on his collar and give him a gentle pushback. "And I don't want to find out. I don't think I'm emotionally mature enough to be ready for a relationship with you. You're very handsome, but I'm not ready to handle you the way you are. I'll see you at dinner tomorrow Min Ho." I get up and leave the dorm. I've learned from my dreams in several ways and picked up all my belonging after making a dramatic exit.

♨︎☤♨︎✄

I decided to catch up on my sleep. And man was I exhausted. I slept for almost 16 hours and woke up the next day. It was actual Chuseok day so I needed my head screwed on straight. I got out my mom's cookbook to get the maejakgwa recipe. Because my family couldn't get them fresh I was going to make two batches. Baking always takes my mind off everything. I get so focused on the details. The timer dings as I scrub some dishes and I pull the ginger cookies out of the oven.

They smell delicious.

I want to eat all of them.

I let the cookies cool down and find a fun box to package them. I try to write out a letter to my family but I end up sobbing onto the sheet of paper. Before I can get too emotional I text a hand delivery service and tell them that I need a box of cookies brought to my friends. I prepare the box and wait by the front entrance of the school. A man on a scooter collects the box with a smile. I return to the dorm and prepare my main dish.

My granny's muguk.

I had to buy beef broth because I didn't have the time to prepare true broth. while that boils I chop radish and scallions and then slice up the beef. The dorm swells with the smell of Granny's delicious soup. It's what reminds me that I have yet to eat breakfast. I throw the final seasonings in the pot and wash my hands.

There's not much in the fridge but I find two Chobani flips and guzzle them down. Then I take down a box of strawberries. I lower the heat on the soup and let it simmer for another hour. I spend that time getting ready for dinner. I find a big slouchy cardigan and a really cool long pleated skirt. I add a simple white tank top under the cardigan and match it with some white sneakers. That sense of rebellion rises and I keep my glasses on.

I give my hair a curl and clip some pieces back and put o a light layer of makeup on. The sun is starting to set so I pot my soup and bring it down to the common area. I run back up to my dorm and retrieve the cookies and when I return the hall is almost full of expats.

Unfortunately so are Professor Finnerty and Professor Lee are there as well. I have nothing against Professor Finnerty. He's handsome and understands the students better because he seems like he's fresh out of the womb. But, Professor Lee is too intense for my peers. I like him though. I see Kitty, Q and Min Ho pull up. They place down big bowls of food and everyone finds a seat to get situated.

"Kitty, why don't you make a toast?" Q pushed her up to stand

"Well, hello everybody this is my first Chuseok but I'm going to make sure it isn't my last." There's a scatter of giggles "I want to make this toast out to my mom. Wherever you are, I love you, Mom, Happy Chuseok!" we all cheer and clink our glasses together. I find my soup and take a healthy portion of my muguk. Then I get a scoop of white rice and some japchae.

I say thank you for the food and dig in. Someone brought a gallon of Arizona iced tea so I grab a cup when I burn my tongue on the beef. I meet Min Ho at the drink station

"Oh Hello, (Y/n)."

"Min Ho you look kind of sweaty," I reach up for his forehead and it feels clammy.

"I feel fine."

"Well, you have that date tonight, right?"

"Yeah, how did you-"

"I hear you bragging about it. Just here, "I dig around my sweater pockets and provid some pills. "You look like you may need some meds. Here's Dramamine for nausea, tums, if your stomach starts spinning and cramping. It's an anti-acid. And for general pain here's some Advil." I hand him three little bottles

"Oh, why are you giving me meds. If you saw I was sick wouldn't you love that my date be sabotaged?"

"What who do you think I am? If I ugh If I like someone I'm not gonna purposefully let them have a bad date so they can crawl into my arms. Here, get Lulu an ice cream I hear she likes strawberries."

"Actually we would need to get sorbet."

I return to the tasty Japchae and my muguk. I was enjoying it until someone brought up that Min Ho is the one who cooked it.

"You cooked this Min Ho?" I pulled my utensils from my face

"Yeah, it's my mum's recipe."

"Well, it's delicious." I give him a smile and take another bite "Could use some salt."

"Is this your soup?" He takes a small bowl and has a bite "Could use some pepper."

"Well, you should try my maejakgwa cookies. Maybe bring some to Lulu."

"come here," He stands up and grabs me by the elbow. I'm taken around a corner and pressed against the wall. "what are you doing?"

"What do you mean what am I doing?" I look into his eyes and shake his hand off

"Why are you being so nice to me?"

"Because I'm a nice person?"

"Well stop, you used to have so much fire why'd you give up?"

"Because you obviously like Lulu. And she's way prettier and better at dancing than I am. So just go on that date and have fun."

I get up on my toes and give him a kiss on the cheek.

I take a deep breath and I limp back to the table ad take the display of steamed dumplings and stuff a stack of napkins in my pocket. I have no thought process my body just moves to its only comfort. I begin blindly stuffing my face until there's no elasticity left in my cheeks. I continue this self-pitying tirade until Professor Lee slams on the table to get everyone to quiet down. I realize what I've done and leave the room.

On my out of the dining hall, I find a nearby garbage bin and spit out my cheek fulls of soft gyoza. Tears are already running down my cheeks from shame. I doubt more than two people were looking at me but my brain tells me my worst fears. Everyone was watching the 'used to be' fat loser cry and stock her cheeks with pork and chicken. I get one of those napkins from my pocket and wipe the corners of my mouth. When I spot and exit I slam the metal and glass door open and continue half-assed splits as cool air hits my reddened cheeks.

"(Y/n)? What are you doing out here?" Oh no, oh god no. I turn on my heel. easiest way to avoid your problems is to run from them "Wait (Y/n) Erg!" Min Ho's distresses gurgles quell my escape

"Are you alright?" I get closer to him"what the hell's wrong with you?"

"I think someone poisoned me."

"What!" I grab my phone and start dialing the poison helpline all while blubbering nonsense Min Ho

"No, I think someone poisoned me with dairy."

"Ohhh that's why you would get sorbet." I reach through my pocket but only find the empty paper cube where the Lactaid pill I took this morning sat. "Oh shit, just," I grab him around his arms and help him up the stairs where we connect with Kitty.

"Finally, you took your sweet time,"

"Wait, you texted Kitty for help?" I let go of his shoulders

"Yeah?"

"Alright," Min Ho's phone interupts me

"It's Lulu she just pulled in. Someone cover for me. But make her feel allured, make me interesting."

"I've got it." I look Kitty in the yes and she grabs onto his bicep and they waddle to a nearby bathroom. I spin on my heel and brace the outdoors.

"Who are you? Have you seen Min Ho?"

"No, Ive been texting him nonstop but he hasn't responded." Her eyes light up. I know it's because she knows min ho is blowing me off to test her "He was supposed to take me for sorbet at six but I guess he got us both."

"Really he double-booked me with you? But you're so, whatever. You tell Minnie that we're going to dinner and sorbet at six tomorrow. One night with me and he'll have no reason to be late again." She turn on her heel and get's back into her fancy private car.

I swallow a ball in my throat and march back up the steps. Kitty is waiting for me ad Min Ho emerges from the doors looking relaxed and refreshed.

"Sooooo?"

"You two have a date tomorrow at six, you're getting dinner and sorbet. make sure to bring a condom." I pat his shoulder with the hand holding my phone. I sway drunkenly back to my room and get undressed. I line up some skin care on the ledge of the bath while it fills with hot water. I fill the tub with confused tears as I take my makeup off and comb my soppy hair.

[kylekozmikdeluxo]

Special Interest Timeline: Retro Games

I'm on a retro games special interest kick, and in my previous post on said things, I talked about how - in the mid-aughts - I really got into games made in the 1970s and 1980s... In the early 2000s.

And I got my history a little messed up when writing about it, so I shall do... a timeline!

Mostly for my sake!

I'm one of those autistics who tries to keep a whole-ass timeline about my special interests... When I got into it, what got me into it, how long it took me to take the next step and discover more things about it, etc....

My love of retro games stemmed from a childhood of playing simplistic MS-DOS shareware games in the late '90s. Games off of floppy disks, like HUGO'S HOUSE OF HORRORS, COMMANDER KEEN 2, CRYSTAL CAVES, WORD RESCUE, CD-MAN (a PAC-MAN clone), SKI FREE, and more... I also forgot to mention that I had a hand-me-down NES in the '90s as well...

Again, going off of my previous post, I mentioned that it kinda starts in the early 2000s. I want to say approximately 2002/2003?

Christmas 2002: I get a GameBoy Advance and SUPER MARIO ADVANCE 2. SMA2 contains a really good port of SUPER MARIO WORLD, originally released in 1990, and an updated version of the 1983 arcade title MARIO BROS. I don't know if this necessarily kicks off the special interest, but it definitely plays a big part in it.

Late 2002/Early 2003: This is approximate. A guess. Around this time, I went to my local swimming pool every mid-week, or something like that, with my father. Afterwards, we'd stop for a bite at a nearby diner. They have a MS. PAC-MAN machine in the vestibule. One day, I watched someone doing really really good at the game. I'm reminded of the old DOS games I loved so much. Around this time, I was obsessed with what year a piece of media came out, so upon seeing the "copyright 1980, 1981" on the attract mode of the game, I had learned something new: Arcade games like that dated back to the 1980s.

Throughout 2003: Going to arcades wherever I went (i.e. bowling alleys, restaurants, etc.) and seeing at least one retro arcade game there. A lot of the time, it was one of those MS. PAC-MAN/GALAGA "Class of 1981" cabinets that were pretty new at the time.

Christmas 2003: I'm given two plug-n-play retro games collections... This is where it all *really* takes off...

The one on the left is the Jakks Pacific Namco set, which contains PAC-MAN, BOSCONIAN, RALLY-X, DIG DUG, and GALAXIAN. Pretty solid ports, all things considered. This I got on Christmas Eve, and I remember that night trying out all the games... And I played the living daylights out of this thing after that...

The one on the right was a bootleg, a Frankenstein's monster-like controller system concoction that were sold in malls and on QVC and the like. My grandmother got that one for me, and it contained a cartridge containing 84 various Famicom and NES games. These "Famiclones" were common back then and it was a side-market that only mutated over time. Luckily, this was one of the less egregious ones, and it had an assortment of NES games I couldn't get elsewhere. The hand-me-down NES we had no longer worked, so this was a worth substitute... Take out the cartridge, there's 10 built-in games that are basically Famiclones. Weird thrown-together 8-bit games of origin I'm unaware of at the moment.

Early 2004: Near my dad's place is a warehouse selling arcade machines and cocktail tables. While they didn't allow customers to play the games, they did - somehow - make an exception for me. I visited a few times and loved it, it was like paradise to my 11-year-old self. I'm sure the guy running the place wanted us OUT, haha.

Next... This is going to sound super-nerdy, but upon doing very well in a spelling bee around February/March and winning... A $200 gift card to... Circuit City! Yes, upon a winning that gift card, what do I buy? Retro game collections!

I believe I got NAMCO MUSEUM and MIDWAY ARCADE TREASURES on one of the shopping trips, in addition to the GameBoy version of NAMCO MUSEUM, PAC-MAN COLLECTION, and KONAMI COLLECTOR'S SERIES: ARCADE ADVANCE.

I visit the website System 16 and KLOV (Killer List Of Video Games) quite frequently, too.

Also around this time, I get my hands on an Atari collection for the PC called ATARI ANNIVERSARY EDITION. I also receive a book called THE ULTIMATE HISTORY OF VIDEO GAMES by Steven L. Kent.

SUPER MARIO ADVANCE 2 is in regular rotation around this time.

Fall-Christmas 2004: For my birthday and Christmas, I get...

ATARI ANTHOLOGY for the XBOX, and another Jakks Pacific Namco collection, this time including MS. PAC-MAN, MAPPY, GALAGA, XEVIOUS, and POLE POSITION. I also get this fantastic coffee table book by Rusel DeMaria and Johnny L. Wilson:

I'll cap it off here, but this is where it peaks, and I'm all about these kinds of things from here on out.

[hekate1308]

And That Special Quiet On Christmas Morn, A Destiel Advent Calendar, December 6

Read it on AO3

Masterpost

At first, Dean, in this new weird part of his life, didn’t realize that no one could hear Castiel but him. This was mostly because the painting only ever talked when they were alone, probably because he didn’t want to shock anyone else the way he had Dean. But then Sam came to visit, as he often did in the evenings.

“Are you still working?”

“I was just finishing up” he told him honestly. He was very aware that otherwise, Sam would have told him off. He had already been quite angry when he had heard about the roof since he had seen it as another proof that Dean didn’t pay enough attention to what had to be done when he was in his workshop.

As he put his tools away, he looked at Castiel and wondered if he should introduce them, but he took the decision away from him when he said, “Hello, Sam.”

He didn’t react. Dean looked at the painting again, but there was nothing he could do about it. Sam couldn’t hear him which most likely meant no one else could either.

He was very aware that this was another point in favour ofd the losing his mind theory, but on the other hand, his brother clearly hadn’t noticed anything amiss, and he was the one who knew him best, so he probably didn’t have to be too worried yet.

So he continued to be the only one Castiel had ever spoken to, that was something he supposed. He threw him another glance.

“You do not have to apologize”.

Castiel might not have known much about how the world worked, but he got Dean. It was a really weird thought, especially because he’d rarely clicked with people like that in real life.

“Dean?”

He shook his head. “Sorry. Was thinking about stuff.”

“You work too much.”

And of coruse said old discussion would rear its head.

“You really do spentd a lot of time ihere.”

And now Casti9el was in on it, too. Wonderful. Sam would have appreciated it if he could have heard him.

“I have orders, and the Christmas market is coming up.”

“As if you don’t have enough stuff already.”

“Still… wouldn’t want to disappoint people.”

“Dean, you’ve never disappointed anyone in your life.”

It was one of those things that Sam now and then said that made him uncofmrotabel so he didn’t reply anything, chosing to focus on putting the rest of his toold away.

“And you’re sure the roof is fixed?”

“You know Crowley, he wouldn’t bring anyone but the best.”

Sam frowned, but that was nothing new – his brother nad friend had never gotten along, as a matter of fact, Sam kept telling him that Crowley was sure to eventually go full supervillain because he didn’t get him.

“Woulödn’t let me pay” Dean therefore continued.

He would say that – it was always fun to see Sam struggle to comprehend that Crowley could do a decent thing if he wanted to. “That was nice of him” he forced out.

“Yes, well, mostly I wiush he wouldn’t keep doing that kind of stuff. He just shows up, does what he wants, and leaves.”

“Isn’t that how Crowley operates?”

He shrugged. “I suppose. Anyway, want a beer?”

As they left the workshop, he had to suppress the urge to tell Castiel goodbye, as he had grown used to over the past fgew days.

He really was going insane, wasn’t he.

And yet, after he’d handed Sam his beer, his brother said, “You look well.”

He couldn’t help but blink at him before saying, “I am?”

“That’s not what I meant. You don’t look so run down.”

Once more, he didn’t knbow what to say. “Well, I’m having fun. You know I love my jobn. And Christmas is coming up.”

Sam’s eyes softened. “I know.”

Thesy wer esilnet for a moment as they both remembered the Christmases of their early years that perhaps should not have been called Christmases in the first place. Dean had always tried his hardest to make sure that Sam got a few presents, not that this meant much when one was only seven years old and didn’t understand why one’s dad wouldn’t just go out and get them a tree…

Well, they always had one now, and a big party because if you asked Dean, he had earned that much, and so far people had never complained.

He suddenly wondered what they would say if he announced that he had a magical painting, but decided it was not a good idea.

“Anyway, so what are you up to? I assume there’s another very complicated case you have to deal with.”

“You know that’s not how it works.”

“Close nough for me.”

Sam gave him a bitch face and Dean laughed.

[bitbrumal]

                                                   QUESTION    ↤  @galactia​  ::  👫 + our ship & i’ll give you 4 facts  ↩

       ‘👫 (Zhong and Kaeya? ;D)’

i hate u ( affectionate ) for sending me this bc istg i TRIED to just write 4 snappy points but kaeya’s everything in response to zhongli is so juicy i kept writing whole posts on his psyche. i cut that shit & it’s still long as balls. this could have been about goddamn pancakes but i wanted to dig deeper & then it went too deep & now-

I.

kaeya goes out of his way to have possessions, tokens, or even parts of zhongli to physically entwine with him especially in his absence. the man’s generous in his affections, but the distance between them is generous too. whether it be braiding brown & gold into his own blue, voluntarily gifted- donning the fine robe zhongli had gifted him around christmas- piercing his ear a second & third time to wear cor lapis as close to inside him as is medically reasonable.          yes he eyes zhongli’s personal possessions when he’s over. yes he leaves his own most intimate ones when he leaves.

II.

although kaeya’s never bothered to learn to love anything, he’s so enamoured that he will try his best to enjoy bamboo shoot soup. it’s just... he hates bamboo.

III.

frequently breaks his brain over what to gift zhongli, & is RomanticTM enough to feel like,,, maybe to a man who sees how feral & rotten hollow he is about the concept of ‘love’... perhaps his heart is finally a fitting gift?           but then that seems stupid, so kaeya silently makes use of his inheritance & designs something achingly lovely. its weight & texture will be pleasant to the touch; the picture it makes a delight for the eyes. kaeya’s incredibly embarrassed about the wall of but i want my heart to be the gift he wants that continually gets in the way of any of these feats. just seems a bit rude to consider that burnt out husk of a heart an appropriate return gift.

IV.

zhongli’s endless dignity is the feathery lure to kaeya’s naughty, shameless cat behaviour. he gives exactly zero fucks about the man / god’s reputation--( since he’s fully convinced he can handle whatever's thrown at him anyway )--& will proceed to drag his own through the mud by smacking the man’s ass when he’s in the middle of a conversation, climbing him like a tree as they stroll through the market, snuggling up to him like a well-fed alley cat, & generally be affectionate in all the silly physical ways better suited to privacy.                    naturally, he has no intentions of actually crossing any real boundaries - just the ✨annoying✨ ones~~.

[ classified redacted essay under the cut. ]

I.

zhongli brings him a sense of belonging that outstrips the cold, horrible confidence that he’ll always be allowed back with his first ‘family’. a kindness that is fair, just, & lacks the blind willingness to sell himself cheap that diluc had had as a boy ( & possibly still has ). he brings an authority to the table that is more competent & dignified than varkas’, or all the current captains manning the ship in his wake combined. warmer than diluc by being less intense- & cold in warmth’s excess -than heat. more tempered--              hasn’t drawn a blade on him, fine, we’ll say it.        he comes with a stability that kaeya has never experienced - a sort of security that no doubt comes in part from his faux endlessness. but it’s the way he goes about being a person that grants someone in his company all these boons. it’s a shockingly ravenous thing. hadn’t known it could be this luxurious- just being around someone. is it less shallow for being more personal? or can he not say he loves him deeply, hah.

kaeya, in comparison, is only beneficial to be around when under duress. his qualities are mainly feigned so as to be wanted around long enough to do some benefiting himself. he tries very hard not to do that around zhongli unless he’s been too much of a bore. depression is a buzz kill.

II.

there is a special way zhongli clicks into his trauma & unlocks it, lets it flow freely 'away’. because much of kaeya’s terror toward him is direct. it’s morax he’s afraid of; one of celestia’s approved archons, one of those who fought in the war ( even if kaeya has apparently, deliciously / gratefully, misunderstood how )... all his life kaeya has been terrified because he now lives within the ‘eye of the seven’ or whatever. it could not be confronted with absent barbatos... even if kaeya after a few years deliberately went to a statue of him to see if he would, perhaps, be punished for existing some more.                  but zhongli not only allowed him to face & process his terror, he... despite kaeya having definitely not earned himself any points with a gentle, self-deprecating tone - by being forgiving, by blaming himself, by making it easy for rex lapis... being charming, being nice, being manipulative-

            he was allowed to hate & grieve & claw.

zhongli could have done actually anything. & continues to be able to. but does not. & not only is that true, but he makes a massive fucking point out of it.            kaeya never asked to be healed. he wanted to be dealt with, to be done with it all. if he had to fear something he had no hope at all to control- kill me or yield to me. the dragon does neither,..     fairly, kindly, honestly. wouldn’t stand for false accusations but stood for anything else-

the best man he’s ever met is a god & he’s furious about it. or perhaps, perhaps he’s just- perhaps this is another kind of passion. ah, yes -- all that hatred ( & boy is there hatred ) transmuted into love. recontextualised by the mind yet, stemming from the same generous part of the brain.

           it is the strongest emotion kaeya can give,                & it is breathtaking to be proud to gift it to him.

        my condemner, love me whole.

III.

kaeya is a little worried he’s just met a god so kind he’s... in a relationship founded on pity. but zhongli continues to be kind & open, & while it is impossible not to doubt - it is shockingly hard to have no reason to believe in something far too good to be true.

          it’s just that kaeya trusts in vulnerability & cruelty,     & the balance makes some sense. he could be strung along for a greater payoff later -- but kaeya has met one other impossibly kind man. even if they no longer speak. diluc made it possible at all for him to believe something like this, but that’s not anywhere near enough. zhongli-

[akehoshimystar]

Chapter 3

Riku: This Christmas market is held every year, but for some reason, I wasn't able to come before.

Since it’s over before I even realized it.

Ito: I get what you mean.

Riku: Do you go to Christmas markets a lot, young lady?

Ito: Not really... Many places require tickets, andI don’t really plan that far ahead.

So it's refreshing to stroll around like this.

Riku: That's good to hear.

I heard they're doing a Christmas concert too. Look, just in time. It’s very soon….

As he said that, Riku-san showed me the map on his phone.

My eyes were drawn to the text below the introduction to the Christmas concert.

Ito: Oh, but it looks like you need a separate ticket for this.

Riku: Yeah. It says it's already sold out. What a shame.

Ito: I'll have to check early for next year.

Riku: Does that mean you will come to the Christmas market with me again next year?

Ito: Well... If our schedules match, I'd love to.

Riku: Haha, thank you. I'll look forward to it. Let's find a place to eat for now.

Ito: Okay.

Ito: (Oh, this one.....)

Riku: This food truck is cute, isn’t it?

Ito: !

As if Riku-san had read my mind, I stopped in front of the food truck that caught my eye for a brief moment.

Ito: Yes. Their menu looks pretty delicious.

Riku: Yeah. They also have a Christmas limited edition menu, and this Set A looks pretty good too.

Ito: I'm having a hard time deciding...

Riku: Shall we dine here?

Ito: Absolutely.

(Maybe he noticed me looking? How attentive of him.)

Riku: Excuse me, I’d like to order this Christmas special….

Store attendant: We’re truly sorry. The Christmas limited edition menu is already sold out

Riku: Oh, really? Then I'll have this A dish.

Ito: Make it two.

Store attendant: Understood. Two A dishes, right?

After paying, we decided to wait at a nearby table while the food was being prepared.

Riku: I guess being spontaneous doesn’t work with this sort of thing.

Ito: Sometimes these things happen.

Riku: Haha. This is not the kind of coincidence I wanted.

I'm normally the type to make solid plans.

Especially on Christmas Eve. I’d definitely be so eager that I make reservations a month in advance.

Ito: (I can picture that.)

Riku: That's just how I am.

Ito: That's exactly how I thought you'd be.

Riku: Really? I'm glad you’ve been thinking about me.

.....Judging by the way you praised me, is it safe to assume that you’re not like that?

Ito: Yes.... I haven't really thought about doing anything special just because it's Christmas.

Riku: Unlike when you were a child, when you become an adult you don't really have any whimsy for Christmas, right? I understand that.

Ito: But Riku-san, you still value ​​Christmas, don't you?

Riku: If I had to say it, yeah.

Maybe it’s because I have so many memories. I imagine spending a happy day with my special someone. The time I spend planning was fun as well.

…...A long time ago, I even planned a surprise for Christmas…

Decorating and stuff are not my thing at all…..

Hey, it’s kind of embarrassing to say it out loud. Simply put, I've had a lot of Christmases like that.

Ito: What a wonderful memory.

Riku: It is.

Ito: (For Riku-san, Christmas is a precious time to be spent with loved ones.)

Riku: That being said, taking into account what I said earlier...... Today’s completely unplanned. Sorry about that.

Ito: No, it’s okay.

Riku: …....I'm jealous of Kyoya.

Not only did he manage to keep his schedule, but I'm sure he also perfected his plan for tonight.

Maybe I'll show him what I’ve got on another occasion. Will you look forward to it?

Ito: I’ll look forward to it then

But I wouldn't have come here by myself. Because I came here on a whim with you, I was able to have a great time at the Christmas market.

Riku: Haha, that's true. Well…..

???: Are you in the line?

Riku-san was about to say something when a voice came from nearby. I thought it was someone calling out to us, but the owner of the voice was looking at the boy standing in front of a food truck.

Boy: Ah, no.

Customer: Then, excuse me.

Boy: …….

Ito: (That child... is he lost? There doesn't seem to be anyone around who looks like his parents.)

(But he doesn't seem to be looking for anyone either...)

The boy sat on a nearby bench with a bored look on his face, dangling his legs aimlessly.

Ito: (Should I call out to him…?)

As I was wondering what to do, Riku-san stepped forward.

Chapter 4