#3rd cap for Leg

[farminglesbian]

a view from the bridge, ntl @ young vic (2015)

[cheftsunoda]

George x albon!reader x Carmen? Alex’s sister that comes to the paddock?

crush — gr63 + carmen

smau + blurbs

george russell x!influencer albon reader x carmen mundt

alex albon x !sister reader

carmen had never met yn albon in person, but from the glimpses she’d seen on social media—effortless beauty, sharp humor, and just the right amount of chaos—she was already smitten. so when yn finally walks into the paddock one sunny afternoon, turning heads like it’s second nature, carmen isn’t surprised that her heart skips a beat. what she is surprised by? the way george starts stammering and grinning like a schoolboy with a crush. oh, this was going to be fun.

fc : amberly yang (bbyambi on ig)

—

yn_albon

liked by alex_albon, lilymhe, lando & 5,010,889 others.

yn_albon : on a brand trip, playing roblox and being lily’s wag all at the same time. (i can multitask unlike alex) (he thinks just bc he is busy driving a car in circles that he is excused from wag duties) (i got you my lily)

tagged : lilymhe

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view 175,020 other comments.

username00 : the fact that both the albon sibs are so chronically online that they always have memes of each other in their photo dumps makes me the happiest.

liked by yn_albon

↳ yn_albon : part of my job is to be chronically online…idfk what he is doing

liked by lilymhe and lando

alex_albon : im fighting for my life on the track to make more robux for when they unban me

liked by yn_albon

↳ yn_albon : honestly i can respect the grind

liked by alex_albon

↳ yn_albon : @/roblox can u pls unban my brother? we want to play dti together. 🙏🏻🙏🏻

liked by alex_albon and lilymhe

↳ username1 : pls😭 they are so unserious

lilymhe : the bestest wag (sorry alex) love you to the moon and back😇

liked by yn_albon

↳ alex_albon : the internet quite literally argues that i am the best wag

↳ lilymhe : yeah but the internet hasn’t seen yn in her wag era. she greeted me with matcha and braided my hair before the tournament:)

liked by yn_albon and alex_albon

↳ alex_albon : yn stop making me look bad infront of my girlfriend and the internet

liked by yn_albon

↳ yn_albon : if you don’t marry her soon i will😈

liked by lilymhe

lando : just give her alex’s seat while we’re at it, she’s already doing everything else

liked by yn_albon

↳ alex_albon : you are not helping.

liked by yn_albon

yourbff : i genuinely cannot keep up with your ass anymore. in 3 different countries and 4 different roblox servers at once

liked by yn_albon

↳ yn_albon : im just good like that. call you when lilz and i land

georgerussell63 : okay but share your username…for scientific purposes 😎

liked by yn_albon

↳ yn_albon : check dm’s👉🏻👈🏻

liked by georgerussell63

↳ alex_albon : really?? you wouldn’t get on last night but you will willingly play roblox with my sister.

↳ georgerussell63 : yes 😁

liked by yn_albon

carmenmmundt : pretty girl ❤️

liked by yn_albon

↳ yn_albon : says the prettiest girl ever

liked by carmenmmundt and georegrussell63

—

The jet smells like leather seats and expensive champagne. Lily tosses her golf cap onto the nearest empty seat and sinks into the plush cushion across from you, her hair still slightly damp from the post-tournament shower. Her phone’s buzzing nonstop—congratulatory texts, press notifications, probably three new swing analysis videos from her coach—but she ignores it all in favor of kicking off her sneakers and grinning at you like you’ve both just pulled off a heist.

“You think he’s going to freak out?” she asks, tucking her legs up as the jet begins taxiing.

You grin back. “You just placed 3rd in a tournament in another country and now we’re flying to ambush him in the paddock. If he doesn’t cry, I want a refund on him. A new brother for me and a new boyfriend for you.”

Lily laughs, reaching for a mini water bottle but never breaking eye contact. “Also, if he doesn’t hug me before he hugs you, I’m breaking up with him.”

“That’s fair,” you say, mock-serious. “I’ll even do it for you.”

The plane begins to climb, and the world below disappears in a blur of clouds. You sink deeper into your seat, blanket tucked around your legs, as Lily slides across to sit beside you. She rests her head on your shoulder without asking—like always—and pulls out her iPad, but doesn’t unlock it. You both sit there in the silence for a moment, the kind that only comes from a long day and a shared secret.

“You think he has any clue?” she finally asks.

You shake your head. “None. He thinks I’m still in New York on a campaign shoot and that you’ve gone radio silent for your post-tourny ‘recovery era.’ He literally said, ‘See you in like… two weeks maybe?’ this morning.”

Lily smiles, slow and dangerous. “Perfect. I love ruining his sense of control.”

You glance over at her and laugh. “I love when we’re unhinged together.”

She raises her water bottle in a toast. “To chaos. And to your brother, who’s about to have a very emotional Friday.”

You clink your bottle to hers and let the hum of the engines rock you both into quiet anticipation. Because if there’s one thing you and Lily have mastered, it’s multitasking—and surprising the hell out of your brother is the next on the list.

—

The paddock is its usual buzz—team radios chirping, camera crews weaving between garages, PR reps speed-walking like their lives depend on it. You’re tucked under a cap and oversized sunglasses, walking just a half-step behind Lily as she confidently leads the way through security. She’s already flashed her pass like three times, her glow giving her a kind of untouchable aura that’s working in your favor. No one’s looked too closely at you yet, and that’s exactly how you want it. Because Alex has no idea you’re here.

The last time you saw him in person was three months ago. Between your insane travel schedule, influencer events, his race calendar, and general Albon family chaos, you’ve both been surviving on chaotic FaceTime calls, blurry selfies, and the occasional meme exchange at 3AM. You missed him more than you realized—until now, walking into the paddock where he’s just around the corner.

Lily slows as you approach the Williams hospitality suite, tilting her head and smirking. “Okay, how are we doing this? Dramatic walk-in? Surprise hug? Fake press ambush?”

You grin. “I was thinking of yelling and just launching myself at him.”

She laughs and nods. “Classic. I support it.”

Before either of you can fully plan the ambush, you spot him. Alex, standing near the motorhome entrance, in full race kit, laughing at something his engineer just said, completely unaware of the storm about to hit him. And just like that, your feet move without your permission. You break into a jog—hair bouncing under your cap, sunglasses sliding slightly down your nose—and before anyone can stop you, you’re barreling into him from behind.

“HI, LOSER!” you shout, flinging your arms around him.

He stumbles, fully yelping, then freezes.

“WHAT THE—” His voice cracks. He twists around so fast you nearly fall backward, and then the sunglasses come off and your cap flips back, and he finally sees your face.

“YN???” His voice is way too loud. “NO. NO. YOU’RE—WHAT???”

He grabs your face like you’re a hallucination, blinking hard. “You’re here? You’re actually—wait—how?”

You’re laughing, almost in tears from how shocked he looks. “Surprise, idiot!”

And then he’s pulling you into the tightest hug, one arm locked around your shoulders, the other cradling the back of your head like he’s scared you’ll vanish again.

“I haven’t seen you in months,” he mumbles into your hair. “I thought you were in New York?”

“Diversion,” you whisper dramatically. “I lied. Lily helped.”

As if on cue, Lily strolls up behind you, completely unbothered and smug. “Hi babe,” she says sweetly, planting a kiss on his cheek.

Alex pulls away from your hug just enough to look at her, still wide-eyed. “Did you both just—plan an ambush on me?”

“Obviously,” you and Lily say at the same time.

He laughs, almost breathless. “You two are terrorists. I’m calling mum.”

“I already did yesterday,” you reply, smirking. “She knew. She said, and I quote, ‘Don’t give him a heart attack, please.’”

Alex groans, burying his face in your shoulder again. “I’m gonna cry. No seriously, I might cry.”

You pat his back. “You’re allowed. But only if it’s ugly crying. We need the full drama.”

Lily pulls out her phone. “I’m recording just in case.”

He flips her off without looking. In the distance, you can hear someone yell “IS THAT YN??” followed by Lando loudly going “I told you she was hotter in person!”

You’ll deal with that chaos later. For now, it’s just you, your brother, and your best friend. And the first real moment in months where it feels like everything is exactly where it’s supposed to be.

—

You’re still tucked under Alex’s arm, half-leaning into the pit wall inside the Williams garage, laughing over some chaotic memory involving one of your childhood hamster funerals, when you feel Lily tap your leg.

“Don’t look now,” she mutters under her breath, “but your fans are approaching.”

You lift a brow. “Fans?”

She tilts her head toward the open paddock walkway. And there they are. George Russell and Carmen Mundt.

Not even subtle about it—walking suspiciously slow past the garage entrance, sunglasses on, heads angled just enough to catch a glimpse inside. George does a double take, then triple take. Carmen nearly walks into a catering cart because she’s so focused on not being obvious about looking. She is very obvious. Alex glances over and smirks.

“Oh my God,” he mutters. “What are they—are they circling the garage?”

“Like sharks,” Lily says. “Sharks that have a crush on your sister.”

“Should we wave?” you ask, already raising your hand.

“No,” Alex says, far too pleased with himself.

Before you can protest, Alex strides to the edge of the garage and calls out, very loudly, “GEORGE! CARMEN! You looking for someone or just lost?”

George freezes. Carmen tries to act casual but ends up bumping into George’s shoulder.

Alex waves them over. “Come say hi, you creeps.”

You try not to laugh as they walk over—George slightly flushed, Carmen attempting nonchalance with all the grace of someone who definitely spent the last ten minutes plotting this.

Alex leans casually against the wall and wraps an arm around your shoulders like he’s presenting a championship trophy. “You two know my very cool, smart, and famous little sister, YN, yeah?”

George’s eyes practically sparkle. “Oh, we’ve heard of her.”

Carmen grins, pushing her sunglasses to the top of her head. “Followed her for years, actually.”

Lily snorts quietly.

“YN,” Alex continues, tone smug as hell, “meet George—who enjoys listening to Taylor Swift before races and Carmen, who once almost tackled a PR intern because she thought they were taking her snacks.”

“That’s a lie,” Carmen says, blushing. “He was trying to steal the last brownie.”

“Fair,” you say, sticking your hand out. “I respect snack based violence.”

Carmen beams as she shakes your hand, maybe holding on a little longer than necessary. “Your posts from Morocco last month? Life-changing. You basically made me book a ticket.”

“Yeah, and that photo dump with the glitter robe?” George adds quickly. “Iconic. No notes.”

You blink. “You saw that?”

“I saw all of that,” George says, too fast, then freezes. “I mean—I just—you know. It was in the explore tab.”

Alex is grinning like the Cheshire Cat. “George, you okay? Bit red in the face, mate.”

George clears his throat. “No, yeah. All good. Just warm in here.”

“We’re in the shade,” Lily says dryly, sipping from her water bottle.

Carmen ignores all of them, eyes still on you. “I love that you’re here this weekend. Maybe we’ll see you around the paddock?”

“Oh, she’ll be around,” Alex says, way too cheerfully. “Attached to my side and/or sabotaging the team radios.”

“She’s welcome to sabotage mine anytime,” George mutters, then straightens up. “Not sabotage. I meant—guest commentary. You know. Enthusiastic support.”

You raise a brow, amused. “Noted.”

Carmen tucks a strand of hair behind her ear, trying to look casual. “If you’re not doing anything later, you should come find us. There’s a little driver dinner after quali.”

Lily’s already smiling. “She’s free. We’re both free.”

George nods eagerly. “Perfect. Yeah. Great.”

Alex just shakes his head, laughing.

—

The restaurant is candlelit and fancy enough that Alex’s shirt has actual buttons. The long, private table is tucked onto a quiet terrace with a view of the paddock lights still glowing in the distance. Drivers are trickling in slowly—Max, Carlos, Lando, a few team personnel—and you’re tucked between Lily and Alex near the middle, your dress a little too pretty for the chaos you’ve been surrounded by all day. You spot them before they spot you.

George, all charm and cologne and crisp white shirt, walking alongside Carmen, who’s glowing in a silk dress.

“Oh no,” Alex mutters around a bite of bread. “The dynamic duo.”

“Be nice,” you hum, dabbing your mouth with a napkin.

“I’m being nice,” he says. “I’m also preparing myself to watch my best friend and his girlfriend flirt with my sister.”

Lily smirks. “Honestly, can’t wait.”

George spots you and lights up immediately.

“YN! You made it,” he says as he slides into the seat across from you—conveniently vacating the original place card.

Carmen swoops in a second later, gracefully sliding into the seat next to you, leaning in close with a conspiratorial grin. “I almost changed my outfit three times tonight. Now I’m glad I didn’t.”

You blink. “You look incredible. You could’ve come in a garbage bag and still won.”

“Oh, stop,” she says, smiling in that way that makes it hard to look away.

Across the table, George clears his throat and leans forward. “She’s right, though. You look amazing.”

“Me or Carmen?” you ask, feigning confusion.

“Yes,” George says, like it’s the most natural answer in the world.

You laugh, and Alex visibly clenches his jaw. “I need a drink.”

“I’ll get you one,” Carmen offers—already rising from her seat.

“I’ll come too,” George says, getting up at the exact same time.

They both stop and look at each other, frozen mid-step.

Lily sips her wine and whispers, “This is amazing.”

Carmen smiles, somehow angelic and savage. “You can grab the drinks, George. I’ll keep YN company.”

George narrows his eyes. “Sure. I’ll be right back.”

You turn to Carmen, who leans on her elbow, close enough that her perfume mixes with the scent of the wine. “So,” she says, “are you always this good at crashing dinners and making half the grid fall in love with you?”

You raise a brow. “Half? That’s underestimating me.”

She laughs, and it’s soft and real, and you find yourself relaxing more than you have in days.

George returns moments later with a drink he clearly put effort into—sparkling, colorful, garnished with citrus and possibly some sort of effort-induced love potion. He sets it down in front of you and looks smug.

“Special request,” he says. “Told the bartender it had to be beautiful. Like you.”

Alex chokes on his water. Carlos, from three seats away, just whispers, “wow.”

“George,” you say, blinking at the drink, “did you just riz me with a mocktail?”

“If it worked, I won’t apologize.”

Carmen gives him a look. “Desperate times, huh?”

“You’re the one who changed seats to be closer to her,” he fires back.

“And you’re the one who literally sprinted to make her a drink.”

You glance between the two of them, holding back a smile. “You know I can hear both of you, right?”

They both turn to you at once.

“Just making sure you feel welcome,” Carmen says sweetly.

“Just making sure you don’t waste time with bad company,” George says, with a look that is not subtle.

Lily leans into Alex, who looks like he’s rethinking every life decision he’s ever made.

“Should we intervene?” she whispers.

Alex sighs. “No. Let them tire themselves out. She’ll pick the one who offers snacks first. That’s always the move.”

You smile, sipping the mocktail George brought you, while Carmen casually rests her hand on your chair, her fingers brushing the back of your shoulder like it means nothing. It’s going to be a long dinner. But you’re definitely not bored.

—

The dinner has long since faded into candle stubs and half empty wine glasses, drivers breaking off in pairs to catch early nights, debriefs, or one last drink. You step out into the cool night air, your heels clicking softly on the cobblestone path leading down the hotel driveway, Lily and Alex already ahead of you, arm in arm and lost in some shared joke. You’re about to call after them when you hear your name.

“YN—wait.”

You turn. Carmen, heels in hand now, jogging slightly to catch up. George is right behind her, loosened collar and flushed cheeks, the kind that say he’s had one drink too many or just been nervous all night.

“Escaping without saying goodbye?” Carmen asks, falling into step beside you.

“I was giving you a moment to catch up,” you say with a grin.

George shoves his hands in his pockets. “More like giving us a chance to psych ourselves up.”

You blink. “For what?”

The two of them exchange a glance—quick, nervous, familiar. It hits you then—how in sync they are. And how out of sync they’ve been all evening whenever you’re around. It’s like their rhythm shifts whenever you’re in orbit.

Carmen inhales, then exhales slowly. “Okay. So, this might be insane, but we’ve kind of been talking—”

“—for a while,” George adds quickly.

“And we were wondering,” she continues, stepping slightly in front of him now, “if you’d maybe… let us take you out?”

You raise a brow, heart skipping. “Both of you?”

George shrugs, sheepish but genuine. “We’re not exactly subtle, are we?”

You laugh, mostly because no, they’re not. The lingering glances, the drink wars, the not-so-quiet seat swapping at dinner—it’s all been loud in the most ridiculous, oddly sweet way.

“We figured if we waited any longer, someone else on the grid would try to beat us to it,” Carmen says, voice softer now. “And I don’t share well.”

“Unless it’s with me,” George adds, nudging her shoulder.

She smirks. “That’s different.”

The quiet settles between the three of you. It’s not awkward, though. It’s a little charged, a little hopeful, and very real.

You fold your arms and tilt your head, teasing. “So, let me get this straight. You’re asking if I want to go on a date—with both of you—after the race weekend, when you’re either wildly celebrating or emotionally spiraling?”

George grins. “Exactly.”

“We promise to be charming either way,” Carmen says, her fingers brushing your forearm.

You pause, pretend to think. “Only if it involves another one of George’s mocktails.”

They both lean in slightly, twin expressions of relief and excitement blooming across their faces.

“That’s a yes?” George asks.

You nod. “That’s a yes.”

Carmen’s smile turns a little dangerous, a little thrilled. “Good. Because I already had the outfits picked.”

“And I already booked the restaurant,” George admits.

You roll your eyes fondly. “So this wasn’t spontaneous at all.”

“Calculated risk,” Carmen says with a wink.

And as you fall into step with them—George on your left, Carmen on your right—you think maybe a little risk isn’t such a bad thing after all.

—

yn_albon

liked by lilymhe, alex_albon, georgerussell63 and 7,001,100 others.

yn_albon : idk what to caption this but i saw carlos sainz flirting with james vowles today.

tagged : carmenmmundt, alex_albon and lilymhe

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carlossainz55 : i was not flirting…james is just…very charismatic 🧍🏻‍♂️

liked by yn_albon

↳ yn_albon : it’s okay to be in love with ur boss carlos. i won’t tell

liked by carlossainz55

alex_albon : go weeyums!!!! (they do that all the time)

liked by yn_albon

↳ yn_albon : the longing looks r something else. felt like i was in a soap opera.

liked by alex_albon

williamsracing : we plead the fifth. GO WEEYUMS!!!!

liked by yn_albon and alex_albon

lilymhe : i was too busy staring at you. you are too hot.

liked by yn_albon

↳ alex_albon : was anyone actually watching me today???

liked by yn_albon and lilymhe

↳ yn_albon : not everything is about you alex. it’s called a team for a reason.

liked by lilymhe and alex_albon

carmenmmundt : so happy to be able to spend the day with the prettiest girl in the paddock 🤍

liked by yn_albon

↳ yn_albon : you are the best 🩷

liked by carmenmmundt

—

Carmen finds you outside the motorhome just before lights out, all white sunglasses and effortless grace, her Mercedes pass swinging around her neck like she was born with it. She grins as she approaches, and for a second, you forget the crowd around you—forget the chaos of race day, the roar of engines in the background, the crew rushing past with unreadable expressions. It’s just her.

“You ready?” she asks, nudging your arm gently with her elbow.

“I was born ready,” you say, even though your heart’s been beating at double speed since she texted, “Watch the race with me?”

You follow her to the viewing deck above the garage, where the sunlight is sharp and golden and the crowd noise blends into a distant hum. She leans on the railing next to you, arms crossed, head tilted toward the track—but her eyes keep flicking to you, like she’s more interested in your reactions than the timing screens.

Every time something happens—an overtake, a near miss, Alex making a brilliant move into Turn 1—Carmen taps your arm or gasps quietly or leans in just enough that you catch the faint scent of her perfume. At one point, she offers you a pair of headphones, only to lean closer and say, “But if you wear them, I can’t make dumb commentary in your ear the whole time.”

You don’t put them on.

Instead, you laugh and let her narrate the race in a running whisper that’s more gossip than strategy. And through it all—there’s this buzz. This something.

The way she rests her hand casually on your lower back when she leans over the rail. The way your shoulders brush, again and again, and neither of you pull away. The little inside jokes that start forming before lap twenty.

At one point, you’re both cheering wildly for Alex’s overtake, and you throw your arms up without thinking. Carmen grabs your hand and spins you dramatically, like you’re dancing in the middle of a champagne shower. You both burst out laughing, flushed from the sun and the shared joy, and she doesn’t let go of your hand right away.

“Best race day I’ve had in a while,” she says quietly, eyes locked on yours as the cheers from below echo around you.

“Same,” you reply, and your voice comes out softer than you expect.

For the rest of the race, she stands just a little closer. Says your name just a little more often. And by the time the checkered flag waves, you’re both already making plans for future races.

—

The restaurant is quiet, tucked away on a rooftop overlooking the city, warm lights casting a soft gold glow across the terrace. It’s not flashy, not the kind of place drivers usually get dragged to by sponsors or brands. It’s intimate, quiet, chosen with intention. You knew something was different the moment you stepped out of the car.

George was already waiting, shirt slightly unbuttoned, hands in his pockets, eyes lighting up when he saw you. Carmen had arrived with him, slipping her hand into yours like it was the most natural thing in the world.

Now, the three of you sit at a small round table under string lights, the city glittering behind you like someone scattered stars too close to earth. Dinner has come and gone, wine glasses nearly empty, dessert barely touched. It’s the silence that tips you off. Not awkward—comfortable. Full. George is watching you with the softest smile, like he’s memorizing the curve of your cheek. Carmen’s hand is resting just slightly over yours on the table, her thumb tracing gentle patterns along your skin.

You glance between them and raise a brow. “What?” you say, laughing lightly. “Why are you looking at me like that?”

George leans forward, voice low and sure. “Because we’ve been waiting all night to say something.”

Carmen straightens slightly, her fingers curling more securely around yours. “We didn’t want to rush. We didn’t want to make it a thing until we were sure you felt it too.”

You blink, heart stuttering. “Felt what?”

George takes a breath. “This. Us. Whatever this has been—between the stolen glances and competing to make you laugh and the way you make it feel like everything slows down when you walk into a room. We’ve talked about it, a lot. And we just—”

“—we like you,” Carmen finishes, eyes bright and unwavering. “Together. As… us. Not just one of us. Not competing. Just us.”

Your breath catches. They’re both so open. So sure. Carmen reaches across the table with her free hand, taking George’s. “We don’t want to confuse you or pressure you. But if there’s even a part of you that wants this too… we’d really like to be yours. If you’d be ours.”

There’s no big speech. No drama. Just honesty. Just two people you’ve somehow fallen into orbit with—who’ve made you laugh and blush and feel more seen than you’ve felt in a long, long time. You look at George. At Carmen. At the way they’re already sharing something so strong and steady between them—and yet still made room for you. Your voice is quiet, but sure.

“I do feel it. I’ve been feeling it since… Monaco, probably. And I didn’t know what to do with it. Because this felt impossible.” You laugh, breathless. “But now it feels kind of perfect.”

George exhales, smiling so wide it looks like relief. Carmen brings your hand to her lips and kisses your knuckles. “So… is that a yes?”

You nod, eyes glassy, voice thick with something you didn’t expect to feel tonight. “Yeah. It’s a yes.”

George stands first, pulling your chair out with one hand and helping you up with the other, his touch lingering, reverent. Carmen slips an arm around your waist, and George’s hand finds the small of your back as they guide you to the edge of the terrace. The city stretches out in front of you. The stars are closer now.

And when they lean in—first Carmen pressing her lips to your cheek, then George brushing his nose against yours before placing a soft kiss at the corner of your mouth—it doesn’t feel overwhelming. It feels like something beginning.

—

several weeks later…

Your birthday doesn’t feel like your birthday. There’s no cake, no chaos, no Alex yelling off-key from the other room while Lily throws glitter at your head. No extra- tight hugs from George. No light forehead kisses from Carmen. There’s just… work.

You’re in New York, stuck in meetings and content shoots for a brand launch you should be excited about. But the apartment they’ve put you in is cold in that expensive, too-white way. You’ve got cupcakes from a PR box and flowers from people you’ve never met, and your phone has dozens of “Happy Birthday!!!” texts that make your screen light up and still leave you feeling completely alone.

You curl up on the couch in your pajamas that night, bare-faced and tired, a blanket around your shoulders as the skyline blinks outside the window. You sent Alex a photo earlier—of your sad little cupcake and a candle that refused to stay lit—but he didn’t answer. Neither did Lily.

You figured Carmen and George would call. Maybe FaceTime you together and make you laugh until your stomach hurt. But it’s almost midnight, and all you’ve got is silence. Until— knock knock knock. You frown.

No one knows you’re here. Not the building. Not the brand team. Not even your manager. You rise slowly, wrapping the blanket around yourself tighter as you cross to the door. You peek through the peephole.

And immediately stumble back, because—

“OPEN THE DOOR,” someone whispers through the wood.

You fling it open. Alex is standing there in a ridiculous party hat, grinning, arms wide open.

“Surprise!” he shouts.

“WHAT—” you start, eyes wide, but then Lily appears from behind him, holding a tray of homemade cookies and a box with your actual baby photo printed on it.

And then Carmen steps out from behind them, looking criminally good in sweatpants and a crop top, holding a tote bag with confetti spilling out.

And George—George—pokes his head in last, holding a bouquet that’s bigger than his torso.

Your breath leaves your lungs in one big, stunned exhale. “You’re all—here?”

“Happy birthday, loser,” Alex says, pulling you into the biggest hug, practically lifting you off the ground.

Lily hugs you second, tighter, whispering, “You didn’t think we’d let you spend today alone, did you?”

You’re already crying when Carmen cups your face. “I know you said you were okay, but you didn’t sound okay. And we weren’t going to let this pass without showing up.”

George presses a kiss to your forehead as he wraps an arm around your shoulders. “Plus, I missed you. Also, I really needed an excuse to eat cake.”

They come inside like they’ve always belonged there. Alex sets up music from his phone while Lily lays out snacks from a suitcase like she packed an entire party. Carmen pulls a birthday crown from her bag and puts it directly on your head, and George pops open a bottle of something bubbly while asking, “Did we miss dinner, or are we ordering five pizzas?”

Within ten minutes, your apartment feels like home. There’s laughter bouncing off the walls, confetti in the air, candles finally staying lit, and the people you love most in the world—all here. For you. At one point, you’re sitting on the couch with Carmen curled into your side, George stretched out with his head on your lap, Lily painting Alex’s nails while he argues about color choices—and it hits you. This is everything.

Not the flowers from brands or the influencer trips or the shiny gifts you’ll probably forget about in a month. Just this. The people who show up. You smile through your happy tears, and Carmen tilts her head to look up at you.

“What are you thinking?” she asks softly.

“That I might cry again,” you admit, voice cracking.

George shifts to press a kiss to your knee. “Good. We were going for tears.”

Alex raises his bottle. “To YN. The best sister, the most chaotic human being, and now—officially—another year older.”

You all clink glasses. And in that moment, surrounded by love, laughter, and far too much frosting—you feel exactly how you should on your birthday. Not alone. Not forgotten. So, so loved.

—

The next morning, you’re woken by someone aggressively playing the Spider-Man 2 theme song through a portable speaker. You sit up in bed, bleary-eyed and half-asleep, only to find Alex standing in the middle of your apartment with a bagel in one hand and a foam Statue of Liberty crown already on his head.

“Rise and shine, birthday brat,” he declares. “It’s your New York day. And I am your guide.”

“You’ve been here once, Carmen says, sipping coffee in a silk robe from your kitchen. “And you got lost in Central Park.”

George walks in from the balcony, wearing sunglasses and holding a laminated tour map. “Ladies and gentlemen, the group itinerary.”

“Absolutely not,” you groan, pulling the covers over your face.

“Absolutely yes,” Lily says sweetly, throwing a pair of “I ❤️ NY” socks at your head. “You’ve been working nonstop. Today is pure chaos. We’re being annoying. We’re being tourists. We’re buying matching shirts.”

—

You start the day in Central Park because, apparently, Alex woke up with the unshakable conviction that ‘bike rides = wholesome bonding.’ He’s already at the rental kiosk when the rest of you catch up, dramatically arguing with the attendant about whether he can get one with a basket.

Carmen and George are dressed like they’re shooting a Vogue travel spread—she in oversized sunnies and a windbreaker you know she stole from George’s closet; he in perfectly tailored shorts and the exact amount of smug. You, in contrast, are in leggings and a hoodie with a coffee in one hand and a deep mistrust of physical activity in the other.

“Ready to race?” George asks, wiggling his eyebrows.

Lily raises an eyebrow. “Do I look like I’m above humiliation?”

She takes off like a shot before anyone can answer. George yells “CHEATER!” and tears after her, nearly taking out a toddler and an elderly pug in the process.

You and Carmen opt for the scenic route. You pedal slowly through tree-lined paths while she keeps one hand on the handlebars and the other on your arm whenever she wants to point something out. She tells you stories from her first visit to New York with her uni friends, and you tell her how surreal it feels to be here now, like this—with them.

Halfway through the ride, Alex crashes dramatically into a bush, claiming he was “distracted by nature.” You’re crying from laughing so hard, and George has the audacity to pull out his phone and snap a picture.

Carmen kisses your cheek at a stoplight and whispers, “This already feels like the best day.”

The next stop you begged them not to go. Alex insisted. George supported him purely out of chaos.

It’s exactly what you expected—overstimulating, overpacked, and full of things you don’t want to touch without washing your hands. Carmen wraps a scarf around your head like a disguise while Lily buys hot dogs that may or may not be edible.

Alex immediately takes photos with every off-brand costumed character: a saggy Elmo, a sun-faded Batman, a Hello Kitty with glowing red eyes. “It’s for culture,” he says. “You can’t fight me on this. I was born here spiritually.”

George, meanwhile, ends up cornered by someone selling knockoff sunglasses. He nearly buys three before Carmen drags him away by the collar.

You finally agree to take one touristy group selfie. It takes eight tries because Alex keeps blinking, Carmen keeps kissing your cheek, and George keeps trying to photobomb his own photo.

When you check your camera roll later, one of the blurry pics is your favorite—you, surrounded by all of them, laughing mid-moment, chaos frozen in time.

George announces this stop with the gravity of an F1 team principal revealing new car upgrades.

“There are three key stops. First, Joe’s. Second, Prince Street. Third, the little place in Brooklyn I won’t name because it’s my spot.”

You make it through the first location with only mild cheese-induced burns. George insists on rating every slice like it’s Michelin-tier, even writing notes in his phone. 

Lily walks past him and mutters, “You sound like a guy describing his ex.”

At the second stop, Alex tries to eat an entire slice in one bite and ends up with sauce in his nose. Carmen refuses to share hers. George offers you a bite of his, only to “accidentally” brush your nose with sauce so he can wipe it off with a napkin and an absurd amount of smugness. Carmen retaliates by handing you her last bite and dramatically saying, “Because I actually care about your well-being.” By the third stop, you’re full, a little greasy, and completely, blissfully happy.

 The next stop starts off tame. You wander the galleries, the lighting cool and soft, the mood respectful. It lasts ten minutes.

Alex reads the name of every piece in a fake posh accent. 

George gets stopped by a group of teen art students who ask if he’s that “guy from TikTok,” and he leans in with a totally serious, “Only if you don’t tell my team principal I’m here instead of doing sim work.”

Lily attempts to interpret a Jackson Pollock painting as “Alex’s emotional state after Quali,” and honestly? It fits.

Carmen lingers behind with you in the more abstract galleries. She slips her fingers between yours and murmurs, “I think you are more beautiful than any of this art.” 

You blink at her. “Are you flirting in a museum?”

She smirks. “Can’t help it. You look good under gallery lighting.”

You’re still blushing when a security guard walks by and clears his throat, clearly done with your group’s nonsense.

—

By the time you reach the bridge, the sun is low, painting the skyline in gold and rose and streaks of violet. Carmen hands you an iced drink she somehow smuggled from the last café. George is already halfway up the incline with Alex, both loudly arguing over “who’s more photogenic in silhouettes.”

You walk slower. Lily’s taking photos behind you, catching little moments—you laughing with Carmen, George adjusting your scarf because the wind caught it, Alex mid-jump trying to be “cinematic.”

It’s calm in that surreal, glowing way New York sometimes is. Carmen wraps an arm around you, chin on your shoulder. George loops his arm over both of yours from behind, resting his chin on Carmen.

“I want this forever,” he says softly.

You don’t say anything. You don’t have to. They feel your answer in the way your hand finds theirs, in the way your eyes shine in the light.

—

They sneak you upstairs, Carmen covering your eyes with her hands while George hums Happy Birthday off-key. When they pull their hands away, there’s cake, string lights, paper crowns, and a banner that definitely says “YN IS A MENACE” in Alex’s handwriting.

Lily cues up music. Alex opens champagne like he’s won a Grand Prix. George tries to light sparklers and nearly sets his sleeve on fire. Carmen gets frosting on her cheek and doesn’t wipe it off until you lean in and do it for her.

There’s dancing. Loud, stupid, no-one’s-watching dancing. There’s a slow song that none of you can name, but Carmen tugs you into a sway, and George wraps his arms around both of you.

They sing Happy Birthday again. Off-key. Too loud. Perfectly you. And later, much later, as you sit barefoot on the rooftop with your legs in Carmen’s lap and George tracing circles on your knee, you close your eyes and think— This is the best birthday you’ve ever had. Not because of the city or the food or the sights. Because of them. Your people. Your chaos. Your heart.

—

yn_albon

liked by alex_albon, lilymhe, carmenmmundt and 9,010,107 others.

yn_albon : best birthday ever because i spent it with all my favorite ppl 🩷 love you all so much.

tagged : georgerussell63, carmenmmundt, lilymhe and alex_albon

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view 345,007 other comments.

lando : happy birthday yn!

liked by yn_albon

alex_albon : happiest of birthdays to my favorite menace! love you!

liked by yn_albon

lilymhe : love you my sweet girl! hope it was the best birthday ever❤️

liked by yn_albon

carmenmmundt : our pretty girl!! love you so much

liked by yn_albon

georgerussell63 : id say alex and i were very stellar tour guides 🤣 happy birthday beautiful! love you forever

liked by yn_albon

—

f1gossipgirls

3,012,002 likes.

f1gossipgirls : George Russell was caught kissing not longtime girlfriend Carmen Mundt, but her very close friend YN Albon—yes, Alex Albon’s sister and mega influencer. The steamy moment was snapped outside a SoHo café, and naturally, fans are spiraling. Last we checked, George and Carmen were still very much together—so is this a cheating scandal? An open relationship? Or something even messier? And before you say it—yes, Carmen was spotted in New York earlier this week. Yes, with YN. Yes, they were holding hands. No, we don’t know what’s going on either.

—

The photo is everywhere. You wake up to it—your phone vibrating endlessly on the nightstand, screen flooded with texts and notifications. It takes one swipe and a blurry blink to register what’s happening. Splashed across every F1 gossip account, tabloids, Twitter threads, Reddit forums already three theories deep. The angle is unforgiving—paparazzi-level candid, your hand curled into his hoodie, George smiling against your lips like you’re his entire world. Your stomach flips—not from guilt, but from the timing. Because the world doesn’t know the truth. Not yet. Not about you and George. Not about Carmen, either. You scroll down. The headlines are brutal.

You don’t realize you’re holding your breath until a FaceTime call blares across the screen. It’s Carmen. You freeze. Heart in your throat. She speaks before you can even say hello.

“Have you seen it?” she asks, voice low, hair still wet from her morning shower.

“Yeah,” you croak.

There’s a pause—heavy but not cold. Then she exhales, soft and steady. “George is already pacing the kitchen. He’s on his third coffee. I think he’s trying to rewrite time.”

You let out a small, surprised laugh. Then, more quietly, “Are you okay?”

She smiles gently. “I’m not mad, if that’s what you’re asking. Just tired of pretending. Tired of people thinking we’re lying, or worse—hurting each other.”

“I didn’t mean for it to—”

“I know,” she interrupts. “God, YN, it’s us. There’s nothing to be ashamed of. Just…” She sighs. “Do you think it’s time?”

Before you can answer, George joins the call, sliding into frame with a frown that melts the second he sees you. He’s still in sweatpants, hair messy, worry written across every feature.

“I’m so sorry,” he blurts. “I wasn’t thinking. I should’ve checked who was around—”

“George,” Carmen cuts in gently. “We’re not mad. We’re just… tired of hiding.”

He nods slowly. “I didn’t like watching people call me a cheater when all I was doing was kissing someone I love.”

That word hangs in the air—love. You feel your chest tighten. Carmen notices. Of course she does.

“We all love each other,” she says quietly. “We’re in this together, yeah?”

You nod, throat thick. “Yeah. Together.”

“So we tell them?” George asks. “Everything? The three of us? No secrets, no damage control?”

Carmen looks at you. “Do you want this to be real in the open? Because I do. I want to hold your hand in the paddock. I want to stop pretending you’re just Alex’s little sister. I want people to know that you’re mine— ours.”

Your eyes sting. You don’t even hesitate. “I want that too.”

George exhales like he’s been holding the words in since the post dropped. “Okay. We do it. Together.”

He reaches for Carmen’s hand offscreen. Carmen looks straight into the camera and says, “Let’s write the truth before someone else tries to write it for us.”

You smile. And for the first time that morning, your hands stop shaking.

—

georgerussell63

liked by yn_albon, lilymhe, carmenmmundt and 7,010,001 others.

georgerussell63 : love looks a little different on us. but it’s real. and it’s ours. 💙

tagged : yn_albon and carmenmmundt

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—

[astrolook]

Retrograde Mercury in the Houses

First of all, Mercury Rx in your birth chart isn't a glitch, it's a feature.

✨ Mercury Rx in Fire Signs (Aries, Leo, Sag) – The Bluetooth connection that works only when they’re standing on one leg, facing north, at precisely 3:33 AM. Loud, passionate, but often misunderstood because they speak before the signal stabilizes.

✨ Mercury Rx in Earth Signs (Taurus, Virgo, Cap) – The software update that takes forever to install, but when it does, it’s flawless. They think before they speak, but people still misinterpret them because they communicate in a slow, calculated way.

✨ Mercury Rx in Air Signs (Gemini, Libra, Aqua) – The Wi-Fi that should be fast but keeps glitching. Their thoughts are rapid, but their words come out jumbled. They rewrite messages a hundred times before sending, yet somehow, they still get left on read.

✨ Mercury Rx in Water Signs (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces) – The deep web browser that sees things no one else does. Their words are drenched in emotion, layered with hidden meanings. They communicate telepathically (because honestly, explaining themselves in words is exhausting).

Mercury Rx in 1st house - These natives words tumble out of their mouth like a badly loaded webpage. Your brain is fast, but your mouth is buffering and you mispronounce words a lot. This placement natives watches movies with subtitles on even for their own language. Rewatches things just to "get it". Have their own slang. When they type, their autocorrect betrays them. Loves music that feels like a personal soundtrack and listen to songs on repeat. A misunderstood protagonist really.

Mercury Rx in 2nd house - These natives are the slow but steady thinker. Like they pause a lot before speaking, people think they're deep, but they're just trying to remember the word for "fork". Loves slow-burn dramas and hates overly complex sci-fi plots. Listens to the same five artists forever. Loves classic rock, R&B, or jazz—something timeless. Hates overproduced music.

Mercury Rx in 3rd house - Talks fast, stumbles over words, or randomly loses their train of thought. In some cases, they sound sarcastic even if they're serious and don't mean to. Loves multitasking like watches TV while texting, scrolling and half-listening to a podcast. This placement learns vocabulary and phrases through memes, twitter slang, or duolingo threats. Their music taste is genre-fluid. Listens to rap, hyperpop, EDM, and podcasts at the same time. Will pause a song midway to send a text.

Mercury Rx in 4th house - Have an "old soul' way of speaking. Probably sound exactly like their parents/grandparents without even realizing it and some people around them could have told them about it. Writes handwritten letters and doodle in their free time or while in class. Rewatches childhood favorites for comfort. Prefers old movies and refuses to watch a bad remake. Makes a lot of spelling mistakes in their own language. Probably still keep their old notebook and drawings. Obsessed with childhood favs. Loves soft acoustic, old-school pop, or the one song their parents always played.

Mercury Rx in 5th house - The way these natives describe basic things involves cinematic screenplay. Probably wrote a overly detailed fanfic or an unpublished novel. Loves over-the-top dramas, reality TV, or anything with messy plot twists. Probably memorized a whole anime/movie opening before knowing what it meant. If these natives wanna learn a language, it's mostly through songs and movies. Also their inner monologue could be dramatic and sounds like Shakespeare. In music, listens to anything that makes the natives feel like the main character.

Mercury Rx in 6th house - Damn. Don't ask these natives "How are you?". They will give you a full detailed report. Talks and writes in bullet points. These natives watches informative or detailed YouTube videos like restoration videos, primitive survival, science documentaries "for relaxation". Lo-fi beats, instrumental music, or podcasts instead of songs. Prefers music that helps them focus.

Mercury Rx in 7th house - These natives adapts their way of speaking based on who they’re talking to. Also could convince anyone they have the same interests. Into arts and crafts. Loves romcoms and dialogue-heavy movies. Also psychoanalyze people a bit too much. Loves duets, soft indie, or romantic sad songs. Will make a playlist for every relationship they’ve ever had.

Mercury Rx in 8th house - These natives are cryptic texters and speakers. They speak in riddles. This placement makes the native to hide their true opinions and make them say things they don't really want to due to fear of criticism or being labeled a misogynist. Sometimes convey their true opinions in the most cryptic way possible. Watches crime documentaries and loves dark, psychological themes. Listens to dark, moody, or hauntingly beautiful. Think Lana Del Rey, The Weeknd, retro songs or anything with eerie instrumentals.

Mercury Rx in 9th house - These natives are really good at giving TED talks and for writing long-winded essays, even in casual texts. Uses "however", "anyways" in DMs. Loves to watch travel vlogs, historical dramas, other language movies and likes philosophical anime/movies. Loves music with deep lyrics and listens to songs in different languages.

Mercury Rx in 10th house - These natives have a sense of professionalism even when they order food. A level of sophistication. These people uses proper punctuation in texts and draft emails for hours before sending. Loves business dramas. Watches TED talks and political speeches. These people probably has a certification related to their career. Listens to motivational rap or music that makes them feel productive.

Mercury Rx in 11th house - Their speech is 50% memes and 50% conspiracy theories. Writes in lower case letters. Uses 'lmao' and 'lol' to soften every message. Watches niche web series, obscure YouTube channels, and indie films. Their vocabulary comes from internet slang and discord convos. Not into mainstream pop.

Mercury Rx in 12th house - These people say something vague, a week later, it would turn out to be weirdly accurate. Their journal entries would look like prophecies, their vivid dreams and psychic visions. Loves watching horror, surreal, experimental films. Loves songs that makes them forget their own life and dream about themselves in that song.

✨🔮DM me for a complete astrology reading & check out my pinned post for pricing! ✨🔮

[chaotic-minds-think-alike]

Finally got around to finishing this houugh... it was a lot of work but I really like the end result!! Naturally, I'll try my best to list some of the thoughts I have in mind for these guys below. Long post ahead!

These lizards are intended to be ALMOST fully arthropod-like but due to my lack of understanding of bug anatomy and creative liberties, they are in that gray spec bio area so don't take any inconsistencies too seriously (or rather, fuck logic, and accept them how I describe them regardless)

Inspirations: - my lesser detailed lizard design - my friend's slugcats - wasps for the head contours, various insects for the exoskeleton guidelines, caterpillars, various stylistic slugcats across the #rainworld tag - the burning need for something more detailed and cool in my drawing vocabulary

The actual meat of the post; extra facts: - Lizards are related to slugcats (in my au, if you wanna call it that?) or at least the very early version of them. This idea is borrowed from this post and in my au, lizards evolve a similar tail to a slugcat's to aid in propelling themselves through tight spaces, acting as a 5th limb. - Similar to my old vulture post, lizards share a similar lifecycle. The majority of the larval stage is spent underground and in tight spots, far from their main predator. Lizard larva will undergo pupation similar to how beetles do, leaving behind broken cavities in pipes where carnivorous plants favor to take root. Additionally to the vulture's terrible parental drive, they often mistake their own larva for lizard hatchlings. - A lizard's skin is leathery and retains moisture for quite a while. Some lizards have a thicker layered mantle than others, allowing them to take punctures to the abdomen and still recover. - Not pictured, but will be described, are a few outliers to the standard lizard body plan. Caramels have muscular hind legs akin to a grasshopper but this means their legs cannot slot together and thus they have a wider leg splay than other species. Eels and salamanders are not lizards but lizard mimics. Yellow lizards' antennae attach to a hump on the snout rather than the rear of the head as seen here. Cyan lizards' mantles are more square shaped due to their leap drums on either side of their bodies and have a 3rd mantle that runs the length of their tail and caps the tailtip. - Cyan lizard's organs are called leap drums and act similarly to our lungs. They are a ring of muscle which contracts and acts as a spring loaded mechanism to propel the creature via combustion through a mysterious chemical process. Because the color of debris left behind during a leap share the same color as the lizard, perhaps they are discarded scales, formerly in place to protect the cavities housing the explosion. - They have similar organs to vertebrates within their abdomen, probably surrounded by cartilage. (not that important, I haven't thought that much about this) - (More may be added later as I remember)

[snowyquokka]

cw: mentions of s/h scars, insecurities, hurt/comfort, soft chan, 3rd person fem pov, swearing, mentions of body worship, small caps on purpose (please let me know if i missed any)

wc: 0.7k

a.n - HUGE DISCLAIMER. please please refrain from reading if you’re sensitive to any of the topics above. this is meant to be a vent post and NOT glorification of s/h, mental illnesses, ect. feel free to scroll if necessary. and if you want/need to talk my dms are always open. i love you all <3

✧ ✧ ✧ ✧ ✧ ✧ ✧ ✧ ✧ ✧ ✧ ✧ ✧ ✧ ✧ ✧

looking at herself in the mirror, y/n sighs. she ghosts her fingertips over the lines of scar tissue littering her outer thigh, each one a reminder of every time she’s struggled.

each one proof that she overcame them. that she survived.

even though she knows this she can’t help but critique them, and herself.

how could she have been so weak, so fragile that she let her thoughts and feelings consume her life so much to the extent that she broke.

fortunately for her, there had always someone there that picked up the shards of her soul that had been scattered around. he glued them back together with his love and overtime handed her heart back in one piece, almost as if it never was broken in the first place.

“hi baby,” chris greets as rests his chin on her shoulder, dragging her out of her thoughts.

“hey,” she mumbles, continuing to run her fingers over the length of a particularly large scar. her boyfriend’s hands move to hold her hips, afraid that if he lets go she’ll slip through his fingers.

“what did i tell you about that, hm?” his voice is low and gentle as he scans over her body. the same body that he quite literally worships, always reassuring her of his adoration.

y/n sighs and pinches her eyes shut so she doesn’t have to look at him as she replies, “criticizing them is almost as bad as creating them.”

chris pulls y/n closer before whispering into her ear, as if they weren’t the only ones in the room. “exactly. now look at me, baby.” y/n shakes her head, feeling too embarrassed.

“baby girl. look at me.” chris manages to keep his composure despite feeling about a dozen emotions at once. though, it’s not the first time she’s been like this and they both know that it won’t be the last. he’s never minded it, actually, and never will. he would rather her talk about her urges then act on them. however, he’d never let that happen as long as he’s alive.

y/n lifts her gaze to meet his in the mirror, watching as his lips curl into his familiar, warm smile.

“there she is,” he murmurs, “can i?” chris’s hand creeps down from her waist to her leg where her shorts are raised, her insecurities on display for him.

she nods as she leans back against his chest. she follows his fingers as they trace over the largest scar tainting her skin.

“no matter how many times i see them, i’m never going to stop loving them. loving you. but you know this already, don’t you baby?” y/n nods. of course she knows, chris doesn’t give her a moment to doubt- or even forget his words. and he never will.

“you’re strong, y’know that? you are so very strong. and i know you hate hearing it but it’s the truth. you persevered and even though it pains me to admit it, you did it all on your own. that takes guts, baby.” chris buries his face in her neck, placing soft kisses on the column of her throat.

they stay like this for a while: his arms wrapped around her as he sways back and forth. he finally breaks the silence after he turns her to face him. he cups her jaw before placing a soft kiss on her lips.

“c’mon. let me run you a bath, yeah? i’ll make you some tea too.” y/n nods and smiles at him.

“thank you,” she laces their fingers together.

“for what, baby?”

“for loving me,” chris frowns slightly and pulls her into a comforting embrace, engulfing her in his warmth.

“you don’t ever need to feel the need to thank me for that, okay? i’ll always be here.”

whoever said that you can’t love somebody else until you love yourself was a fucking liar. chris is walking proof of this

[thecreaturecodex]

Yule Lad

"Gryla and the Yule Lads" © Marc Potts, accessed on his Threads account here

[It's been a while since I made a new Christmas monster, hasn't it? I woke up this morning with an uncontrollable urge to stat up the Yule Lads. It's December 21st at the time of posting, so look out for Window Peeper!]

Yule Lad CR 4 CN Fey This odd little man has a red cap, a white beard and a look of disheveled mischief about him. His fingernails are claw-like, and the shadows around him cast eerie shapes.

The Yule Lads are a gang of gnomish pranksters, each of them specializing in a particular brand of theft or harassment. They are so named because their habit is to descend upon communities during the winter solstice in order to wreak their mischief. They are the sons of the wicked troll Grýla and the lazy ogre Leppalúði, but themselves are not evil. They once were, and happily abducted children for their mother to eat, but they have mellowed somewhat with the passing of the ages. A household that endures their thefts and torments with good humor may find themselves rewarded with small strange gifts (often those stolen from other households).

There are thirteen prominent Yule Lads who travel together, coming down from the mountains one by one to prey on the same community before leaving in turn after a few weeks of mischief. Each one is named after their preferred targets or habits. They are, in their typical order of operations:

Sheepcote Clod, who harasses sheep and drinks their milk straight from the udder

Gully Gawk, who peeps on milkmaids and steals milk once it has been collected

Stubby, who steals burnt food and dirty pans and has very short legs

Spoon Licker, who licks the stirring spoons between uses to contaminate them

Pot Scraper, who steals leftover food before it can be stored

Bowl Licker, who eats food left out for domestic animals

Door Slammer, who wakes families up in the night with loud banging noises

Skyr Gobbler, who is voracious for skyr, yogurt and other fermented dairy products

Sausage Swiper, who hides in the rafters of smokehouses to steal sausages

Window Peeper, who is a voyeur and general thief

Door Sniffer, who can smell fresh baked bread from miles away

Meat Hook, who uses an ogre hook to steal meat from butchers and pantries alike

Candle Beggar, who steals candles in order to eat them

The Yule Lads prefer not to fight if they can help it. They use their mastery over shadows to teleport in and out of houses to rob and to frighten off anyone who attempts to stop them. If they are met with lethal violence, they will fight back, but typically attempt to flee if they see an opportunity. If one of the Yule Lads is slain, however, his brothers will declare a vendetta against his killer and retaliate in turn. These feuds end with the death of the killer and their associates, or with the killer paying off the Lads with sufficient weregild. Rumors circulate that there have been as many as fifty Yule Lads over the centuries, some of whom were slain and others of whom have grown bored of vexing people and retreated into the wilderness for good.

Yule Lad CR 4 XP 1,200 Variant advanced ogrekin redkind CN Small fey (giant) Init +6; Senses low-light vision, Perception +7 Aura twisted shadows (30 ft., DC 14)

Defense AC 22, touch 17, flat-footed 16 (+1 size, +6 Dex, +5 natural) hp 28 (3d6+18) Fort +7, Ref +10, Will +5 Weakness giant-blood, situational blindness

Offense Speed 30 ft. Melee 2 claws +6 (1d4+5) Spell-like Abilities CL 3rd, concentration +6 At will—dancing lights, darkness, detect thoughts (DC 15), ghost sound (DC 13), lullaby (DC 13) 1/day—grease (DC 14), minor image (DC 15), snare

Statistics Str 20, Dex 22, Con 23, Int 12, Wis 13, Cha 17 Base Atk +1; CMB +5; CMD 21 Feats Alertness, Deft Hands Skills Climb +9, Disable Device +11, Escape Artist +12, Intimidate +10, Perception +9, Sense Motive +9, Sleight of Hand +14, Stealth +18; Racial Modifiers +4 Intimidate Languages Common, Giant, Sylvan SQ deformities (varies), shadow jump

Ecology Environment cold mountains and urban Organization solitary or family (2-13) Treasure standard (thieves tools, other gear)

Special Abilities Deformities (Ex) Each of the Yule Lads has two deformities, one beneficial and one disadvantageous. These are as follows:

Sheepcote Clod: gnarled hands (claws deal 1d6 damage); stiff back (-4 to grapple and trip combat maneuver checks; can only stand from prone as a full-round action)

Gully Gawk: bulging eye (darkvision 60 ft.); light sensitivity

Stubby: thick feet (+4 CMD vs. bull rush, overrun and trip, +2 AC vs. charge attacks); stunted legs (-10 ft. movement)

Spoon Licker: lanky (+5 ft. reach); fragile (-4 Con)

Pot Scraper: thick skin (+2 natural armor); distractible (when rolls a natural 1 on an ability check, attack roll, saving throw or skill check, confused for 1 round)

Bowl Licker: oversized maw (bite attack dealing 1d4 damage); brittle bones (creatures gain a +4 circumstance bonus to confirm critical hits against him)

Door Slammer: vice grip (+2 to CMB to disarm and grapple, +4 CMD vs. disarm and grapple); obese (-2 Dex)

Skyr Gobbler: quick metabolism (+2 to Fortitude saves), weak mind (-2 to Will saves)

Sausage Swiper: long fingers (Climb speed equal to ½ land speed); offensive odor (-2 Cha, detectable at double range with scent)

Window Peeper: enlarged skull (+2 Int, [3 ranks in Appraise]); deformed hand (only one claw attack, -2 to attack rolls with two-handed weapons)

Doorway Sniffer: snout (scent); trusting (-2 to Will saves vs. mind-influencing effects, -1 initiative)

Meat Hook: oversized limb (can wield Medium weapons without penalty); flaking skin (-1 natural armor, vulnerability to nonlethal damage)

Candle Beggar: grotesque ears (blindsense 10 ft., +4 Perception); massive girth (-4 to Stealth)

Giant-Blood (Ex) Although the Yule Lads are fey creatures, they are the children of giants, and as such are treated as having the giant subtype for the purposes of spells and abilities. Situational Blindness (Su) The Yule Lads have trouble targeting creatures who can’t see them. Any creature that can’t see a Yule Lad (such as by closing its own eyes) gains partial concealment from it. Any creature that covers itself entirely (such as by hiding under a blanket) gains full concealment, even if the creature would not otherwise be considered hidden. Shadow Jump (Su) A Yule Lad can travel between shadows as if using a dimension door spell. The Yule Lad must begin and end its transportation in an area of dim illumination. A Yule Lad can travel up to 40 feet a day in this fashion, and can split this distance up in 10 foot increments if he so chooses. Twisted Shadows (Su) In areas of dim illumination or darker, a Yule Lad’s presence animates the shadows within 30 feet of it into leering or wicked shapes. The first time a creature ends its turn within this aura, it must succeed at a DC 13 Will saving throw or become shaken for 10 minutes. If the creature succeeds at the saving throw, it cannot be affected again by the same Yule Lad’s twisted shadows for 24 hours. This is a fear effect, and the DC is Charisma-based.

[arcadia345]

The Natal Astrology chart of Jeon-Jungkook

‼️🔞🔞🔞 not a real astrologer just my observations :) paid readings

Born in Busan, South Korea on Monday Sept. 1st 1997 at 3:23pm

ASC: Capricorn 6°

the first thing to stand out on him appearance wise would be his hands and arms, shoulders, teeth, hair, legs and thighs, but especially his torso! With his dreamlike and eccentric presence they didn’t take him seriously Saturn influence but as time passed and he worked on his crafts and himself everyone seen him as the star he is. Capricorns are known for having to mature quicker than others because of responsibilities. As a cap rising with Uranus and Neptune in the first just like him I KNEW he was a Capricorn bc of how his nose has always been prominent throughout his life but now he’s grown up/ into his features 🥹 and also how everyone always projecting (Neptune)onto him like???? Like when did he tell you this?? Definitely the dissociation king 👑. Very easy to dream about him I feel😭 he brings out our subconscious desires. His rebellious Uranus side popped out when he came out with his piercings and tats you could tell he was tired of being projected onto but also iconic because he’s kinda like the first A-list K-pop idol (bts in general tho)to go out of social norms appearance wise. In a way they kinda broke a generational curse 🥹 I remembered how he said he got the scar on his cheek because he was fighting with his brother which correlates to his Aries Saturn (his chart ruler) in the 3rd(siblings). Style wise he gets bored quickly so he’d like to switch up his appearance often. Most of the time he’d go for comfortable but still fashionable clothing, like you may see him in a chill outfit but it’ll cost more than ur rent💀. He could like to switch it up with odd/bold/flirty colors & fits but mostly he loves his darker colors like grey and black.

2nd house: Aquarius 14°

Lemme tell y’all right now…. This man is WIERD at heart🤣🤣 like he’s genuinely quirky lol it’s not a front like fr he’s so down to earth it’s crazy🥹 also his whole chart points to being very spiritual? esp with that 8th house stellium like he’s very into expanding his mind in any way possible so his could be heavily gifted and in pretty sure he knows this by now. He definitely ask himself “why me?”all the time like what did he do to end up so blessed/different?. He definitely would’ve had money regardless of fame as long as he stays true to himself and learns to give enough without being taken advantage of. He loves watching television/listening to music to pass the time. (Any other Neptune in 1st feel like they were raised by television??) Jupiter is all about indulging so in the 2nd house he loves all the simple pleasures, he LOVES FOOD like omg & nice clothes and smells everything that makes you feel good, he likes to collect things that’ll make you go????🤨😃 also he’s DEFINITELY CHRONICALLY ONLINE AND STALKING US BUT HE CANT HELP IT he’s just really nosey lmao😂. He’s the type of celeb to be like “I’m bored, what are my fans doing?” Like omg pookie you genuinely curious what I’m up to??? I feel so special😭 he feels his real persona can come out online better than irl? I think it’s a shyness thing.

ꪔ̤̥ Now since he grew up in the spotlight please take into consideration since bts is his 2nd family a lot of the things I discuss would include them especially 3rd and 4th house but I’ll just call them family also

3rd house: Pisces 23°

First off we already know how dreamy and passionate he is when it comes to his communication skills, in school years he could’ve been the kid nobody noticed in class, also bullying could’ve been a issue, the type to sleep through class, also his siblings could be talented as well, he/they could have many secrets they share between each other. I’m getting that it could be hard for him to remember his upcomings sometimes because like it genuinely flew over his head💀 like yes he was there but he wasn’t there mentally sometimes lol same. Saturn in this house his siblings/ family were strict on him he could be shy when it comes to expressing his emotions like it’s hard to just pinpoint one emotion when you feel everything all at once so that could discourage him from expressing himself. Also he could’ve been lied to /left out often and didn’t even know it omg😭 now don’t get me wrong even tho a lot of things fly past his head he’s VERY MUCH self aware he just doesn’t care fr💀 also since his 3rd house ruler is in the 1st the scenario that comes to mind is like someone seeing your sibling out and public and the first thing they ask is “where’s your brother(Jk)?” Saturn can represent the father and discipline🥺 trying not to cry while type this) him and his siblings went through a lot of difficult times together but also they taught him so much he has sooo much respect for them he knows he wouldn’t be the same person today without them omg like they really raised him🥺🥺😭

4th house: Aries 26°

Now he could’ve had an erratic home life he could’ve moved around a lot & moved far away at a young age since Venus is in the 9th. There is a lot of mars masculine energy here so he likes chaos/excitement in his home also lots of sporty/action stuff around the house I feel like when he first met bts it was like his first taste of freedom in a way. I tell ya rn there was never a dull moment where he lived lol. Him and his family were always in competition with someone they had to fight for their place. Struggle wise at times he could’ve been FIGHTING for his life lots of arguments and aggression (which makes sense since they said they didn’t really get along at first)but with the Taurus degree there was definitely struggles with money and food / stability and personal possessions which drove him to work even harder. His 4th house ruler being in the 10th is giving I grew up at work😟😔

5th house: Taurus 22°

Firstly he’d be such a great dad 🥺 a really funny one too 😂 . His flirting style is not flirting at all😎 well kinda he’s more of gift giving person. His love language is genuinely opening up to you because he barely gets to do that fr, for Capricorns that’s a big thing. Things like showing you the most simple smallest things that means sm to him🥹🥹 to things he created. also food is big to him like the key to his heart actually, that man loves his food! be ready to be wined and dined and spoileddd. He loves traveling, dancing, music, philosophies & beautiful things so he’ll want to get your input on almost everything he wants to pick your brain lol. Also he’s really clingy that’s important to him physical touch but he really doesn’t open up much because he knows he has a lot to lose so he definitely isn’t a fling type of guy he likes to build a foundation with someone unless it’s like a one time thing out of the country where he knows he’ll probably never see you again so might as well act on his instincts. He could be into choking/restrictions, taboos, spontaneity, feet??? One of his erotic zones is his neck. Also his siblings influence his creativity heavily because he knows they know what’s best for him. What he considers as fun is eating😭😭👀 playing some games, cooking, listening to his fav music, drinking, cleaning doing laundry like he’s such a simple man that a good day for him would be staying home all day 😂

6th house: Gemini 14°

He’s very versatile he likes learning he hungers for knowledge. He keeps a strict routine but still likes to switch it up cause he gets bored easily. He was very young when he started working and also he was one of the youngest of his peers so Gemini here makes sense also as he is naturally curious he likes working with his peers/ siblings and unique personalities. He likes traveling also and trying the different types of food they have and shopping there also he obviously spoils his pets feeds them the best food keeps them well groomed, it’s in a mutable sign so I wouldn’t be surprised if he had many types of animals but he’ll want to cuddle a lot with them so idk if he’ll be keen to reptilians with such a busy career atm. He’ll also be very vocal with them they could know a lot of tricks that he taught them. He’d like to travel with them also if he has the chance to, Taurus in his 5th he loves to dress them up and pamper them, wouldn’t be surprised if he was having danceoffs against them lmao 😂

7th house: Cancer 6°

Let me tell you something…. This is HUSBAND MATERIAL RIGHT HERE. The type to be like “I can fix them.” Cause he loves a challenge but he’d actually be able to fix them ngl😭. But first let’s get into how other people perceive him on a 1-1 basis. Now with both these planets being in the 8th it’s very evident that they’d want to jump his bones/ spiral into obsession/ an awakening after meeting him. People naturally spill their hearts out to him, definitely a trauma dumping placement. Ofc people are gonna baby him it’s like he brings out people’s maternal instincts they just wanna keep him safe🥹 but this is also how he treats everyone, with genuine love and respect❤️ also he could get shy easily like the bunny Thumper from Bambi 🥹

8th house: Leo 14°

Okay now bare with me on this one because it’s hard to really understand stelliums if you don’t have one in ur chart, but what I’ve noticed is no matter what they seem to get put in situations that correlate with the house the stellium is in, which causes them to focus on the opposite house to balance the energy’s out. Now first off this man has some HEAVY good karma from the past life he honestly deserves every abundant thing that comes to him x2. As you know he is very keen on perfectionism and order, I refuse to believe he wasn’t some cult leader /powerful witch or something in the past life. Especially a VIRGO stellium in the 8??!!? He was/is a natural born healer 🥹🥹 no doubts about it especially with his moon at a 0° so the moon is in its pure element no matter the sign he’s here to experience those raw emotions. I’ve never met someone with their moon degree at 0 cause its hard to find but i had a manager that had a cancer Venus 0° and when I tell you she made me feel soo special 🥹🥹 like you can feel how genuine she is she loved giving gifts and making sure everyone was okay like the energy was so PURE and innocent in a way it reminds me of jungkook and his acts of service . Also which is why I get why everyone thought he was a Leo moon cause he is in sidereal Astro but I don’t get that egoistic attitude from him if anything it’s the opposite. I don’t want this section to be too long so I’ll move on to his pleasures😈 he’s into praising, teasing, creampies, being rough, nipple play, playful banter, degrading, car s*x, breast/chest, backshots, anal, heavvvy on oral and hand play the type to tie you up 😳 he could possibly be LGBTQ+ friendly if ykwim since he has prominent Aquarius and Virgo is a mutable sign known for their curiosity and versatility, and yk Virgos are obsessed with perfection and cleanness so I’m assuming he likes to get extra messy and wet during the act and he’s not finished with you till you BOTH climax he refuses to be known for bad s*x😤 he likes to make a scene/put on a show. But like I said earlier with his moon and mercury conjunct he needs a strong emotional and mental connection with you before he does anything. His 8th house is so interesting I could go on and on but no😏

9th house: Virgo 23°

Jungkook is very sharp when it comes to the 9th and 8th house since they’re very important in fulfilling his life purpose. In later years school people could’ve seen him as perfect in a way very organized and on point probably a teachers pet or honestly it could’ve been the other way around 😹 ofc half the class had some type of crush on him or was just naturally curious about him but still with that Pisces degree he lowkey didn’t care to be there in a way he probably was absent often but the teachers didn’t care cuz hello??? It’s jk.🥴 Let’s not forget his Libra Venus is in this house as well so he’s natural charming without trying esp to foreigners (9th). He has a strong connection to his past life so I’m thinking he’s like a green witch in a way? Like healing/manifesting when cooking or in nature around plants and animals, singing or just by listening to someone who needs to vent or vise versa. When he travels he needs EVERYTHING to be clean and in place to make sure him and his people are safe bc if not he’ll spiral also he could get jet lagged easily but by now he probably has a routine that helps with that. Also I wouldn’t be surprised if he got married to a foreigner, someone in his circle that he’s known for a long time. Ngl I have Libra 19° in 9th and I tend to get reallly curious when I travel ifykwim 🥴🫣 I really like to experience the people aswell as the location that I’m in to get the full experience. Also with the Pisces degree he’s more likely to do substances like 🚬 and drinking when he’s with his siblings/cousins/ traveling

Mc : Libra 26°

His mother has a heavy Venus influence on him, I’m getting his family altogether was close-knit growing up. He’s known for his worldwide aesthetics, and basically being perfect boyfriend/husband material. Hes known to be easily loved by many, but he’ll mostly be know for the pain he’s experienced, his healing abilities, and his versatility in skills. His Chiron is in this house so most of his pain comes from the industry he’s in, authority, and his public image, with it being at a 29° his ego can hurt him the most😳 which is why I don’t understand why people would get that cocky vibe from him other than his mars. With a Scorpio mars here he’ll also be known as a big sex symbol/someone who brings strong reactions out of people. Since it’s also the ruler of his 11th house so he’ll be known for his viscous and obsessive fans especially online. He’s prone to getting many stalkers/sesangs with how heavy his 10th and 11th house is with Scorpio energy and peers see him as competition even though they see he’s not a malicious person. On the positive side tho he’ll have the ability to feel & see what goes unseen, people’s hidden motives and desires, and so will his fans!! Iykyk👀 Also mars represents passions and pleasure so he could have a thing for love at the workplace, maybe into older/mature people or power play. He could have a porn addiction, definitely into some kinky 💩 with that Aquarius degree. yall plz don’t cancel me I’m just reading his chart. 😭

11th house: Scorpio 22°

His internet presence with have good longevity, this house has to do with our wishes, I’ve been saying I really feel like he did something in the past life to “seal the deal” fame wise because that’s what his chart is giving doesn’t necessarily mean he did something bad but there was definitely intentional manifestation there. Esp with the kill or be killed degree here you don’t have room for mistakes. Yall this man is a stalker big timmme like he stalks us reallll bad but also so does his fans 😹😹 it’s definitely a 2-way street I wouldn’t be surprised if he had a spam twitter account to watch us start army wars💀. If you have Pluto in 11th you know how hard it is NOT to stalk people online😩??? I don’t even care about the people I stalk I’m just nosey asf lmao. His Pluto is at 2° so he could get a lot of gifts from seasangs esp food and material things I’ve heard him speak on these topics also. They’ll try to expose him for having fun since Taurus is in his 5th house,ie while out at restaurants, shopping, his creative endeavors, his love life, or just when he’s at his most comfortable, and children.(Omg? The way that sesang incident with Enwoo just happened right after I typed this wth😳)He understands how crucial his privacy is for his protection so he’ll choose not to post as much. He’s the friend in the group with the silent power/ magneticistm, he prefers to befriend people who understands his deep emotions, friends that have also went through traumatic experiences, I wouldn’t be surprised if he was apart of a online community secretly so he can feel normal for once. Also he’s known as the sexy emo friend lmao with the cool tats and piercings that smokes cigarettes to look cool 😎 he also prefers to befriend people who look like this also

12th house: Sagittarius 14°

Sag in your chart is where your blessings are & what you’re optimistic about. Also where you tend to be a little pessimistic. Sagittarius reminds me of the feeling a sugar rush/liqour gives you, while Capricorn reminds me of the come down afterwards regretting all the decisions you made and how you’ll never do it again. Like I’ve said this whole time he is spiritually gifted and he has strong connection to his past life. He has a lot of Deja vu moments, the things/hobbies he loved then he loves in this life also it brings him a lot of fulfillment. He’d prefer to be in solitude than to be around people but his Jupiter is in Aquarius so this part is a bit odd… he’s comfortable having cameras around when he’s secluded esp with friends but in public??? He hates it especially when he’s not with anyone he knows I think he has social anxiety 🥺 could’ve been overweight in the past life that’s probably where his love for food comes from, he’ll be blessed with assets abroad from his homeland. He could look really similar to what he did in the past life I wouldn’t be surprised if he was a bunny or something.

ꪔ̤̥ That’s it for now till next time❤️ check back for updates

[armadoth]

Victoire and Selma

I hope you're doing well!

cc list:

1st look: hair/necklace/bag/top/jorts/belt/shoes

2nd look: hair/cap/top/skirt/shoes

3rd look: hair/top/waist belt/skirt/shoes

4th look: hair/cap/tie/top/skirt/leg warmers/shoes

thank you to all cc creators: @charonlee, @gigglecoffin, @jius-sims, @tina-sims, @trillyke, @fukkiemon , @tauvesims , @seoulsoul-sims , @sclub-privee , @simpliciaty-cc , @rimings @sims4nexus , @studio-k-creation , @nucrests

[fanartfunart]

[Image Description: 4 colored drawings of Tears of the Kingdom Rauru and Mineru as variations of Minish. 1st: Rauru from the side, holding his hand out gently, looking curious. He has the same general colors and shape, but his long hair blends into a feathered tail, and his eyes are larger and have no whites. His legs and hands are mouse-like. He wears a leaf capelet and a blue flower skirt with a red leaf center. 2nd: Mineru with a hovering Zonai capsule above her hand. She looks bored, scarf floating around her. She has a feathered tail that ends in purple, and has mouse like feet and hands as well. Her outfit is about the same, but her top is a purple flower with green leaves in the center of her chest. 3rd: Rauru sits in Sonia's hand, as she holds him up to her forehead. They both smile, eyes closed. 4th: Rauru drawn to be laying in a screenshot of a Sundelion, wearing his in-game outfit. End ID]

MINISH ZONAI MINISH ZONAI

anyway this is moreso a background thought for @linkedspirit-fanartfunart as like, a way to combine the Minish Cap's Hero of Men-TOTK thing I've got going even MORE. Basically I'm saying the Zonai will be a sub-catagory of Minish that have that 3rd eye for that story and use the size-manipulating magic to be human sized for most of totk. The minish were said to have used to mingle more with the human world prior to MC... :D

[tsuiioku]

Welcome to 𝐂𝐀𝐋𝐋𝐈𝐎𝐏𝐄'𝐒 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐅𝐄𝐂𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐀𝐑𝐘, a pop-up event that will occur whenever this account hits certain milestones. In celebration of reaching 1k+ followers, this account's inbox will open to receive special, sample requests for a limited amount of time. 𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐃 𝐌𝐎𝐑𝐄 𝐁𝐄𝐋𝐎𝐖!

— 𝐍𝐔𝐓𝐑𝐈𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐅𝐀𝐂𝐓𝐒 (𝐆𝐔𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐄𝐒 + 𝐁𝐀𝐒𝐈𝐂 𝐈𝐍𝐅𝐎) .ᐟ

These special request are open from April 3rd to April 10th. Requests submitted after April 10th will be deleted.

These requests follow the same basic rules as my blog!

You can only request once, which means requests cannot be anonymous!

Following the previous statement, if you are making a not-safe for work request, you have to be an adult! If you are a minor or ageless blog, I will not make a smut request for you.

A request has to be attached to a prompt, which will be shown in the bottom portion of the post. If it does not have one, it will be deleted.

Requests will be capped if they extended beyond fifty requests. If that happens, the request period of the event will be ended prematurely. Any requests made following the announcement of this cap will be deleted.

These requests will not be completed until after April.

— 𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐔 (𝐑𝐄𝐐𝐔𝐄𝐒𝐓 𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐌𝐀𝐓) .ᐟ

There are five different sample options to choose from, ranging from sweet to bitter. Each has a variety of different flavors and toppings, so feel free to dig in and enjoy!

⚬ 𝐅𝐋𝐀𝐕𝐎𝐑𝐒 .ᐟ Atsushi Nakajima, Osamu Dazai, Doppo Kunikida, Ranpo Edogawa, Akiko Yosano, Yukichi Fukuzawa, Ryunosuke Akutagawa, Chuuya Nakahara, Ichiyo Higuchi, Michizo Tachihara, Gin Akutagawa, Koyo Ozaki, Sakunosuke Oda, Lucy Maud Montgomery, Edgar Allan Poe, Fyodor Dostoevsky, Ochi Fukuchi, Nikolai Gogol, Saigiku Jono, Tetcho Suehiro, Sigma, Bram Stoker, Ango Sakaguchi

(This account has temporarily broadened flavors for a limited time! Only one flavor is included in your order, so choose wisely!)

⚬ 𝐓𝐎𝐏𝐏𝐈𝐍𝐆𝐒 .ᐟ You can't leave out the toppings! Find your favorites in the list below, but be selective. There is a maximum of three toppings! Feel free to mix and match with both spicy and sweet prompts. Spicy prompts are in bold.

— 𝐃𝐈𝐀𝐋𝐎𝐆𝐔𝐄 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐌𝐏𝐓𝐒:

"i like the way your hand fits in mine."

"i shouldn't be this happy."

"don't look at me like that and then feign innocence."

"will you stay the night?"

"i'm barely holding on."

"i got everything i wanted. my everything was you."

"i don't know what i would do if something happened to you."

"who needs to look at stars when i can look at you?"

"did you eat today?"

"who hurt you?"

"i hate you."

"i've been waiting to kiss you since i first laid eyes on you."

"go to the car. i'll be with you in five minutes."

"shh...stop fighting and sleep."

"don't do this here."

"stay behind me."

"goodnight, love."

"stay away from me."

"are you sugar personified or something?"

"would you mind if i kissed you?"

"you made/did this for me?"

"i'm a monster." "no, you aren't."

"you're beautiful. you know that, right?"

"c'mere you–"

"you can count on me."

"you're hurt."

"stop pretending you're okay."

"don't touch them."

"i love you."

"i think i deserve a kiss."

"can you please come get me?"

"you can trust me."

"not until you beg for it."

"you did so well."

"do you need to use your safeword?"

"spread your legs for me."

"your thighs are shaking."

"quiet. others will here."

"strip."

"open your mouth."

"take it off. slowly."

"you look so pretty there."

"bend over."

"you're mine."

"arch your back for me."

"wrap your legs around my waist."

"i need you."

— 𝐒𝐈𝐓𝐔𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐀𝐋 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐌𝐏𝐓𝐒:

dancing in the rain

showering/bathing together

feeding each other

baking together

whispering sweet nothings

calling them in the middle of the night

sitting on their lap

breaking down in the middle of an embrace

bumping noses while going in for a kiss

teasing the ends of their clothes

swinging arms while walking hand-in-hand

looking lovingly into their eyes

having a nightmare

stressed out over work

panic attacks

tucking a strand of hair behind the ear

lifting your chin

resting foreheads together

grabbing your waist

hand on the small of your back

forced proximity

nicknames

jealousy

sex toys

breeding kink

first time

mirror sex

aftercare

consummation

car sex

orgasm denial

wet dream

body worship

hickies

thigh fucking

semi-public sex

fingering

wall sex

making out

subspace

shower sex

breath play

lingerie

cunnilingus

[takingmyair]

a/n — just a random draft i had from when i was probably stoned a while ago lmaoooo. just so i have something posted for now. idrk what this is or where the vision came from…

—

the sound of your girlfriend’s motorcycle engine rumbling as she approaches your driveway causes you to pause the tv and head to the door, swinging it open. “ what the hell are you doing? “

“ what? can’t show up at my own girlfriend’s house? “ yeji smiles and turns it off, setting down the kickstand and running up your porch. she lets herself inside.

“ no…. it’s just early, you know it’s loud! “ you follow her as she makes her way immediately to your couch and sits on it, legs spread wide for you to clearly sit. “ oh well, they’ll be alright. “ she says lighting a cigarette she pulled from her pocket. you try to ignore how hot she looks making herself so comfortable.

you sit down next to her as she takes a few first puffs. you lean in to kiss her, tasting the bitter and burnt cigarette on her lips. “ wanna go for a ride? “

your head pokes up and a smirk plasters on your face. it’s one of your favorite things and yeji knows it. “ of course i do. “ you say as she offers you her cigarette. you take a few puffs, handing it back to her. she laughs when you cough a little.

she jumps up from the sofa and walks back outside, you following. she paces back and forth while finishing her cigarette with you.

“ you know the drill, hold onto me, i go fast down this road. “ yeji says while flicking the kickstand back up with her foot and swinging her leg over the seat. you do the same and wrap your arms around her waist and leaning as close as possible to her. she starts the engine and pulls out from the driveway instantly.

your girlfriend races down the empty deserted road, baron landscape surrounds you both. it’s fairly hot outside, but thankfully the wind blowing as she drives cools you off.

“ how’s a few beers sound, sweetheart? “ yeji asks as she pulls into her go to bar. she knows you’re going to scold her, say something about day drinking, and then go in and proceed to have a beer with her anyways. “ you know how i feel about your very “ casual “ drinking… “ you say, making quotation marks with your fingers.

“ yeah, yeah, coming in or no? “ she steps off the bike and begins walking towards the door. you roll your eyes and follow her inside regardless. you don’t miss the slight smack to your ass as you walk through the door she held for you.

she greets the bartender, surely they’re friends at this point. it’s not a fancy bar, it’s run down, but it’s regulars are loyal to it. yeji is one of them sadly.

“ let me get a coors draft. “ yeji asks the bartender once he approaches our side of the bar. “ okay, and for you? something fruity? “ he asks you. his stereotyping makes you roll your eyes. “ i’ll do a miller, actually. “ your distaste for fruity drinks probably stems from your girlfriend. you watch him pull out a beer from the cooler and remove the cap, sliding it to you.

“ a miller, huh? now you make me look like a pussy. “ yeji chuckles as she watches the guy perfectly pour her beer and set it on the table. “ not my fault you ordered a beer that’s basically water! “ you take a swig from the bottle, letting the cold and bitter liquid consume you.

“ whatever you say. “ she takes a big first sip, the foam lingers on her top lip and you lean forward, kissing her and licking it off her lips. she blushes and fixates on the tv behind you that’s playing some random american football playoff she could honestly care less about.

after an hour or so she’s had about 2 more drinks, halfway through her 3rd. you keep reminding her she needs to drive home or else you drive her bike, which she rarely lets happen. you’ve only had one beer compared to her. “ you are sure as hell not driving my bike home, no way. “

“ well you aren’t either. “ you pay out the tab and yeji acts mad even though she isn’t, she’s just a little drunk. she chugs the remaining beer in her glass before you drag her outside and make her give you the keys. moments later, your roles are reversed form the ride there, her head leaning against your backside with her hands around your waist.

eventually, you pull into your dirt driveway, putting the bike parked and climbing off. as you go to walk away, yeji pulls you suddenly into a kiss. she looks so sexy in her signature black leather jacket that she wears even when it’s 100 degrees outside. “ i love that you put up with my stupid ass. you’re fucking perfect. “ she grabs your ass hard, causing you to moan.

“ mm, where would you be without me. let’s go inside. “ you breathe out. she tries to not break the kiss once the whole time it takes to get inside. you don’t even make it to the bedroom, opting for the couch instead.

“ right here. “ you push her to lay down onto the couch, straddling her waist as you remove your shirt and throw it to the side.

“ and you’re beautiful too... come here. “ she pulls you back down to kiss her. your girlfriend was very stupid, but you’ll always put up with her.

[kylo-wrecked]

it's a long open starter, but it checks out://

muse: modern!ben, after a breakup, before the car crash setting: thailand/somewhere in the tropics plot: not white lotus idk

After myriad clouds the sun ripens the sky like a blueberry. In daylight, the space and time surrounding Ben swells with potential. He doesn’t mind that his hair gives away the early hour. The sea is a shining pearl down there at the hill’s bottom. Listen closely, hear the coucals. He should smile.

But the trees. 

The stands of trees are the end of a movie. All green, red, brown, and goodbye. It feels wrong. Tropical, autumnal, and wrong. Like realizing your girlfriend’s eyes are really green, that you’re leaving tomorrow. Things don’t last. Ben has said such goodbyes before. 

While about 2/3rds of resort guests doze in cliffside chalets, Ben shuffles along a lantern-lined road so steep he may as well roll down, smothered in sunscreen, bed-head neatly tucked under a meshy sports cap, a foldable Guggenheim bag packed fat and swinging from what is a convincing tree trunk. Untended mosquito bites boiling under a tanned bicep. Coconut trees and tropical evergreens through Ray Ban filters. 

Yeah, he’s said his goodbyes: bye's in the trees, across the sea, nine thousand miles away. It’s in the Calabasas flat he still hasn’t sold. 

A fluffy-headed bulbul mews from this copse lining his descent. If he blurs his eyes, he can conjure her camouflaged under the trinity of palms strategically planted to create the Instagram-worthy shot of a pristine beach through a keyhole; camouflaged if not for her wide-brimmed sun hat, kaleidoscopic paisley, her long golden legs shining with oil.  

He’d said good-bye to all that already. 

It’s eight o’clock. Only the sea awaits. 

Fifty or so unclaimed navy lounging chairs and canvas parasols. Considering the singular chair at the cantina’s edge, Ben becomes a Bernini, fascinating, albeit not handsome, from all angles, peculiarly stiff, appraisable: single. Miserable (?) Likely never-nude. Going to be drunk and shirtless by no later than ten thirty this morning. An LBH from the POV of seasoned, well-to-do nomads and aunties. From the POV of girls trip troupes: looking for a lay, not to be trusted.

This is why Ben arrives before people. When he moves again, striding past rows of empty hammocks, anyone who might be looking would instantly understand that he actually wanted to be alone… and drunk by ten thirty. At least pleasantly buzzed and sleepy. Conked out while the sun changed position, and his honed quads became lobsters, like, you know. An idiot. 

Ben throws his Guggenheim on the sand, revealing his enormous canteen, extra towels, sunscreen, more sunscreen, lumbers into forced lounging, gently lowering himself onto his broad white hemp back, and into that goodnight. A paperback he isn’t going to read rests, almost comically, between his pectorals. The first drink arrives at nine-thirty, and he floats. Gets caught up in a speed boat shattering the Andaman Sea. Caught up in watching the boat shrink like a disappearing arrow. Too caught up to notice the person a few diagonal spaces away from him from placing the king in check. Too caught up to see them start to make their way down the shore. 

He most certainly doesn’t spot their nearing shadow; he doesn’t give an iota of attention to the sound and heat of another body. 

It’s cliche. Elbow meets shadow, drink spills (a drink that resembles a cold orange espresso and is most certainly not that). One unsalvaged soul squints through Ray Bans at the victim, who steps back, liquored rubies rolling down their thigh, muddying the sand between their toes, glaring or trying to avoid eye contact. 

They make eye contact. It’s cliche. 

“Sorry.” Cliche. Cliche. Stupid. Stupid “espresso”-colored voice, most of whose contents survive. Stupid knit brow that shows he might care.  “Sorry. Is that dry-clean only?” 

Pool and deck wear. You’d be surprised. 

“Please don’t take my lunch money,” says Ben, a man whose book has melted in the space of tit #1 and tit #2, between an inside joke that can’t be drunk away. 

He sits forward, damp shirt rectangle clinging to sternum, cap falling into red trunks. Lifeguard material under the fabric. 

“Compromise?” Ben suggests when the stranger snorts or continues looking daggers. He’s kind of still watching the boat; he can just make it out. “Since I spilled my first sip on you, you can help yourself to the rest, and I get to sit with my regrets.”

It’s true, his lips never touched the brim of drink #3. Those are currently pressed into a line that cannot contain their pouty-ness.  

Stupid. 

Yes, have this “orange" negroni as penance from this possible bro on a tight itinerary or a likely sun-shy weirdo who might just be trying to figure out what kind of person this is, if he knows them like he knows the trees.

[fangirlingfromdownunder]

3rd Day of Christmas

A Movie Night with the Winchesters

Summary/Prompt - You plan a festive movie night with the hunters but things take a turn when Sam gets fed up with you and Dean’s playful bickering. 

Pairing - Dean Winchester x Reader

Christmas Masterlist | Masterlist

Dean comes bustling into the room with a bowl of popcorn in one hand and two beers in the other. “You picked a movie yet?”

You laugh. “Of course. Now hurry up and sit down.”

He chuckles back as he places the popcorn bowl in your lap and sits down on the opposite end of the couch. He pulls your feet into his lap and then twists the caps of both beers. He hands you one and sips the other before rubbing your feet. You press play on Die Hard and Dean sighs.

“This isn’t a Christmas movie!” he argues. 

“It’s set at Christmas, that makes it a Christmas movie!” you rebut.

“You both better shut up or I’m not staying,” Sam says at he enters the Dean Cave. 

“He started it!” You defend.

Sam steals a handful of popcorn and gives you both a warning look. You put you hands up in surrender and fix your eyes on the flat screen TV. Dean pinches your shin teasingly causing you to scowl at him. You wait until he’s watching the movie and then you toss some popcorn at his head. He glares at you.

Sam glares at both of you from his seat. “You too want the room to yourselves or something?”

You quickly shake your head. As Dean says, “Yes.”

“Dean!” you kick him. 

“Alright, I’m leaving,” Sam says while slapping his thighs.

“No, Sam! Wait! I just wanted a night Christmas movie night! Please!”

“Well, tell your boyfriend to keep it in his pants.”

Dean shoots Sam an angry look.

“He’s not my boyfriend! He’s your brother!” You argue, taken aback by Sam’s choice of words. You scrutinise Dean’s body language. You wonder if he had told Sam he had feelings for you. You had a crush on Dean for the longest time but he always goes out to bars on hunts and hooks up with random chicks, only to stumble back into your motel room in the middle of the night and crash on the couch. Eventually, you forced yourself to accept that he just didn’t see you like that. So, you funnelled your crush into being the best, best friend and wing woman you could be and you’re content with that. But now, hearing Sam call him your boyfriend, the crush you tried so hard to bury is starting to simmer up again. 

Bringing yourself back to the situation you notice a look of disappointment on Dean’s face. He finishes his beer and stands up, letting your legs fall off the side of the couch. That look and his actions feel like you’ve just been doused in a bucket of ice water. The tension in the room is palpable. Sam quietly slips out too, leaving you alone on the couch. You stare blankly at the movie still playing in front of you. No longer able to focus on or enjoy your favourite holiday movie, you shut off the TV and take the half-empty bowl of popcorn to the kitchen. Knowing the mood is completely ruined you tip the contents of the bowl in the bin and dump the bowl in the sink. You skull your beer and dump the bottle in the bin too. Then you head down the hall to your room. As you get to Dean’s door you notice his light is still on but it’s quiet inside, so at least you know he’s not breaking stuff. But he’s your best friend, so you know if he’s not breaking stuff then his next go to is stewing in his own emotions beating himself up mentally while listening to rock music way too loud through his headphones, which is so much worse. Physical wounds you can stitch up and wrap in bandages, but invisible ones are so much harder to heal.

You stand outside his door for way too long before finally forcing yourself to knock loudly before cracking the door open. As soon as he notices the door opening he turns away, wiping his face and eyes. 

“Dean?” you say quietly.

“I’m sorry I ruined your movie night. I know how hard you worked to get us a night off hunting.”

You take a step into his room shutting the door behind you. You gather all your courage and ask, “Dean, do you-did you tell Sam you have feelings for me?”

He just shrugs then he gets up gathering his keys from his bedside table. He silently slips on his boots and slips past you. As he turns the door knob he says, “It doesn’t matter. Just forget he said anything.” He opens the door.

“I need you tell me the truth. Do you have feelings for me?”

“Y/N, I said forget it!” he says harshly.

You reach out and grab his wrist but he tugs his arm free storming out, slamming the door behind him. Tears drip down your cheeks, but you force yourself to chase after him. You stop in the garage doorway, finding him leaning against Baby’s hood. 

“If it’s true I don’t want to forget it! I love you, Dean Winchester! I’m done pretending…I’m done pretending these feelings don’t exist…I’m done pretending my heart doesn’t break a little each time you go home with some girl from a bar…Or when you bring a girl back here…Pretending I don’t care when all I want is for you to look at me the way you look at them. So, I’m not gonna do it anymore. I’m putting all my feelings out there and I need you to tell me if you feel the same or not so I know where I stand and I can finally move on once and for all.”

“I don’t,” he says without moving.

You nod slowly and then say, “Look me in the eyes and say it then.” You take a step closer to him. He slowly turns around and crosses his arms across his chest. His eyes are red and full of tears and his cheeks are as wet as yours. You take another step forward wanting nothing more than to pull him into your arms. He finally looks up from the floor and at your face. Your eyes meet and you bite your lip to try and control yourself and stop more tears from flowing.

He takes a deep breath and then says, “I-I don’t…” You open your mouth to argue back but under his breath, he adds, “Deserve you…” 

You look up at the ceiling and suppress a small smirk. Bless you, Sam. You finally close the gap between you. You put your hands on his biceps and lean up to place your lips on his. He doesn’t move to kiss back so you pull back but keep your hands on him. 

“You can’t cheat the mistletoe, Dean.”

He immediately looks up and bites his lip. “Y/N. You’re my best friend. I can’t…”

“You’re my best friend too. We don’t have to figure this all out tonight. At least just come back and finish the movie then. Please.”

He nods defeatledly and lets you lead him back to the Dean Cave. You resume your places on the couch and you turn the TV back on. As the movie plays you rest your feet in Dean’s lap and he’s quick to absentmindedly start massaging them. The feeling causes you to let out a small involuntary moan and relax into the cushions. Dean stops his movements momentarily at the sound but then resumes. He doesn’t chance a glance, knowing how hard it would be to keep himself from giving in and having his way with you. 

Eventually, the overwhelming emotions of the night and the sudden relaxation start to take their toll. Despite your love for the movie, you struggle to keep your eyes open. Rather than fighting it you let them flutter shut. 

Dean stays and sees the movie out, continuing to massage your feet and calves. Once the movie finishes he shuts off the TV and gently picks you up bridal style to carry you to your room. He carefully lays you on your bed and spreads a blanket out on top of you. He places a kiss on your forehead and whispers, “I love you too, Y/N.” He then sneaks out quietly to go to his own room. 

[aww-writing-no]

For @winterhawkbingo Round 5, Square O5: First Aid Done Poorly

Ao3 Link

Bandaid:

"Hawkeye, we need eyes at 3rd and Flagler," Steve called over the comms. "These things are swarming and we need a clear route to get the civilians into this parking garage." 

"Got it Cap," Clint said, abandoning his nest and taking off at a run. The intersection was two blocks over, but luckily the buildings in the Miami metropolitan area were relatively close together. He fired a grappling hook arrow and leapt off the roof, tucking his bow close to his chest and angling his body for a roll as he flew through the air. He rolled twice as he hit the neighboring roof, releasing the cable and using his remaining momentum to sprint across the roofs on this block. 

As he reached the end of the block, he fired another grappling hook arrow at the roof of the much taller building across the street. He pressed the button to retract the cable as he leapt, letting the mechanism carry him up. Unfortunately he hit the building before the cable finished retracting, but luckily he didn’t go through the window and was able to let the arrow bring him all the way to the top. 

Wrapping his fingers over the edge of the building, Clint flung himself the last couple of feet over the edge and dropped the cable. It would take too long to dislodge the grappling hook from the building, so he’d have to come back for that later. 

From there it was a straight shot across the block of buildings to reach 3rd and Flagler, so he didn't bother nocking another grappling hook arrow as he sprinted across the roofs. With just one more roof to go, Clint flung himself across the small gap between the buildings. 

"Oh shit," he had time to yelp as he realized this roof was about five stories lower than he'd expected. At least he hadn't been planning the same tuck and roll procedure he'd used earlier, he had time to think before landing. He let out an involuntary bark of pain as he felt his leg snap and sucked in a sharp breath through clenched teeth. Well, it could have been worse. It could have been his neck.

"Hawkeye?" Steve's voice asked in his ear piece. "Are you all right?" 

"I'm good," Clint said with a probably unconvincing grunt, given the rapid string of Russian swear words coming over the comms. "I'll have eyes on 3rd and Flagler in a minute," he said, popping his bow into the staff position and using it to lever himself to his feet.

"Bucky, provide backup at Clint's location," Steve said when Natasha finished swearing. 

"I said I was good, Cap," Clint protested as he limped as fast as he could across the rooftop, using his bow-turned-staff as a crutch and forcing himself to ignore the shooting pain in his leg with every step. This was gonna suck as soon as the adrenaline wore off. 

"Nobody believes you, Hawkeye," Bucky said, sounding slightly winded. "I'll be there in five." 

*

By the time Bucky got to his rooftop, Clint had taken care of most of the swarm, picking off the beetle-bots that got a little too close to Steve or Natasha’s groups and letting them herd the panicked civilians into the parking garage. Clint wasn’t entirely sure why Cap had chosen a parking lot as shelter, but hey, he wasn’t the star-spangled man with the plan. He was just here to shoot things. 

“Hey Bucky,” Clint said as casually as he could manage, picking off another one of the beetle-bots before turning to glance at Bucky. 

“Hey Clint,” he answered with a frown, eyes flicking from Clint’s face, down to his leg, and back up to his face. “This your definition of ‘fine’?” 

Clint shrugged, trying to ignore the waves of pain radiating up his leg. “I’m still standing.” 

Bucky rolled his eyes, muttering “barely” as he leaned over the balustrade to scope out the situation. He fired a few shots from his rifle before turning back to Clint. “That should hold them for now,” he said, still frowning. “Let’s get you sitting before you fall over,” he said, holstering the rifle and reaching towards Clint. 

“I’m fine,” Clint insisted, mostly because the thought of moving sounded more painful. 

Bucky narrowed his eyes. “You’re white as a sheet and look like you’re about to pass out.”

“See, I’m fine,” Clint said with a grin that turned into a grimace when Bucky moved to pluck the bow out of his hands. 

“Ground, now,” Bucky said brusquely, placing Clint’s bow on the ground with a gentleness that felt out of place with his tone. When Clint didn’t move, he slipped his hands under Clint’s arms, lifting and pivoting Clint to lean his back against the balustrade. 

Clint got with the program then, doing his best to breathe slowly so Bucky wouldn’t realize how close he felt to actually passing out. Judging by the look he was giving Clint, he wasn’t doing a particularly good job of it, but with Bucky’s help he managed to end up seated on the ground with his left leg sticking out in front of him. Bucky frowned at the angle of Clint’s leg, shaking his head as he stood up and turned his attention back to the intersection. 

“Watch my back,” he said gruffly, unholstering his rifle and taking a few shots. 

When Clint leaned over to reach for his bow, a pair of handguns dropped into his lap. A few seconds later a box of ammunition followed. 

“They’re loaded, don’t shoot yourself,” Bucky said when Clint picked up the guns. 

“I do know basic firearm safety,” Clint snapped, checking to make sure the safeties were on. They were – Bucky hadn’t dropped a couple of live weapons in his lap. “And what’s wrong with my bow?” he asked petulantly, knowing full well he couldn’t get a good draw on the longbow at this angle. 

“You can’t get a good draw in that position, and if you don’t know that you need to give me back those guns.” 

“No, I know,” Clint sighed when Bucky looked down at him. 

“Good,” Bucky said, turning his attention back to the street and firing a couple of shots. “And do something about that leg before you pass out from shock.”  

*

A few minutes that felt approximately like four millennia later Steve gave the all clear over the comms. Clint took a second to scan the ring of dead beetle-bots surrounding them on the roof before he re-engaged the safeties on Bucky’s handguns and laid them on the ground, barrels facing away. He let his head slump back to bump the wall and let out a heavy sigh.

“How’re you doing?” Bucky asked, stepping over Clint to pick up his guns and tuck them away. He squatted next to Clint and gave him an assessing glance, frowning when his eyes reached Clint’s leg. “What is that?”

“You told me to take care of it,” Clint said with a halfhearted shrug. “I didn’t pass out from shock and successfully covered your rear. I took care of it.”  

“Clint,” Bucky said, expression slowly morphing into a dead-eyed stare that Clint suspected had been the last thing a lot of people saw before being murdered by the Winter Soldier, “that is a bandaid.” 

“Yep,” Clint confirmed, popping the ‘p’. “It’s a Dog Cops bandaid. Tony gave them to me.” 

Bucky ground his teeth and Clint wondered if he was about to get murdered.

“Clint, your leg is at an angle that human legs should not be at. When I told you to take care of it, I expected you to maybe, I don’t know, elevate it? Splint it with something? Not stick a Dog Cops bandaid on the outside of your pants!”

“Oh,” Clint said. That did actually make a lot more sense. “Well, you should have been more specific.” 

Bucky scrubbed his hand against his face. It sounded like he muttered “what am I going to do with you?” before he tapped his comms unit and barked out a request for Sam’s assistance. 

“We’ve got a lot of civilian injuries down here,” Sam replied, voice echoing between Bucky’s comms unit and Clint’s earpiece. “Can it wait until Natasha brings in the quinjet?” 

“Clint thought putting a bandaid on the outside of his pants would fix a broken leg,” Bucky said flatly. 

“I’ll be right there,” Sam said, raising his voice to be heard over the loud string of Russian curses.

“Maybe you could kiss it better,” Clint suggested to Bucky in the silence after Natasha finished her tirade.

Bucky rolled his eyes, but planted a soft kiss on Clint’s temple. “Better?” he asked. 

Clint smiled, tipping his head back to lean it against the wall and closing his eyes. “Definitely.” 

[storydays]

Murder Family

(3rd POV))

"I was a good person before it all went down. I was good my entire life." A woman's voice said lowly.

*Flashback*

A school bell echoed in the are as a pale hand opened the curtains to reveal sunshine and singing birds before the hand wrote on a chalkboard in swirly cursive.

"Good morning!" chirped a blonde woman with a cheerful twirl. "I hope you all did your homework."

A boy was spun into the corner with a dunce hat into the corner as the rest of the children bounced in time with music.

"We love to do our homework and we love our teacher too!" "And when I throw these fun questions, you should know just what to do!" sand the teacher." Okay!" crowed the children.

"2+6 is....?" "8!" "And good behavior is...?" "Great!" "And it's now that part of class when we say the time of day and date." hummed the teacher, tapping her foot in tune.

"It's 9:00 in the morning!" a boy belted out.

"On January 8th!" shrugged a girl.

"The sun is all shining!" a girl with a pink bow in her hair called.

"It's your husband's birthday!" yelled the raspy voice of the kid in the dunce cap.

The class continued to sing, "La-la-la", ignoring the fact that their teacher now wasn't singing but instead was frozen.

She'd drawn the chalk so far, it was almost gone.

She sweat dropped nervously as realization dawned upon her. She turned to the class with clear distress. "Oh my stars! Stop singing children, hush up now!" The children looked at her in confusion as she leaned against her desk, with a hand to her head.

"I forgot it's my husband's birthday. I didn't get him anything special!"

"Maybe if we call him, we could do a happy birthday surprise!" the pink bowed girl perked up, smiling brightly.

*With the teacher's husband.*

Moans and panting filled the air as the occupants continued their activities. They ignored the ringing of the computer but an unused condom hit the answer button on the screen, giving the class a view of what was happening.

The blonde woman's eyes darkened as she stood up and started to leave the room, ignoring the noises coming from the computer.

"Wait! Mrs Mayberry, remember what you taught us? Think before you act." The girl with the pink bow said firmly, grabbing Mrs Mayberry's hand.

Mrs Mayberry grabbed the girl by her throat, choking her slightly before throwing her into the air. The remaining children gasped, watching with wide eyes as their teacher drove off angrily, and they rushed to the computer.

"Okay..oh shit!" Mr Mayberry gasped, seeing his wife appear suddenly. "Sweetie, what are you doing here?"

"Shut up, Gerald!" she snapped, pulling out a chainsaw and attacking the other woman. "You scream like a bitch." scowled Mrs Mayberry. The children flinched as a gunshot echoed in their ears.

"Oh, God. What have you done? She had a family!" Gerald yelled. "We could've had a family!" sobbed Mrs Mayberry. Ignoring her husband's pleas, she shot him.

"Oh, dear God. What have I done?" gasped the green eyed woman, wiping the blood off the screen, revealing her slightly manic look. "In front of you all? I'm so sorry, my children! Don't forget to work on your times tables." she sobbed for the last time, before shooting herself.

One by one, the children fainted in shock.

*Down in Hell*

"You do everything right in life, play by all the rules and still get sent down here with all the Hitlers and Epsteins of the world, after one measly massacre propelled by blind rage." Mrs Mayberry paced back and forth, as two imps sat in the office, both looking extremely bored.

One was sitting on the desk, legs crossed, and tablet in his hands, tail slowly waving in the air. This was (Y/N), and he was I.M.P.'s intel guy, looking up who exactly their targets were, and was also in charge of I.M.P's social media and finances.

Behind him, sat another imp, legs up on the desk, as his tail lazily waved behind him. This was Blitzo, the boss of I.M.P and he was also (Y/N)'s uncle.

"So that's why I'm here." sighed Mrs Mayberry, now in her demon form, a cigarette in her hand. "To get my revenge."

"I mean, was she hotter?" asked Blitzo with a smirk.

Mayberry's eye twitched in annoyance.

"I'm just saying, I had a hard time understanding the unprompted melodrama, you just spat at me tits."

The demoness growled, as she started glowing red in irritation. "What my idiot uncle means to say is, I don't think you quite understand how we operate down here. See, we take revenge on the living, and it sounds like th--"

"The core cast of your sitcom are all frankly are probably down here in Hell with you. Boop!" Blitzo poked Mayberry's nose, making her growl again.

"Not all of them. That whore survived. Now they all call her a hero."

*On Earth*

In the hospital, the cheating whore laid in her bed, covered in bandages, her hair and eye peeking out. "How does it feel to have survive such a crazy bitch?" asked one of the many reporters.

"I just hope that sick woman finally found peace." Her thick Southern accent was heavy as she bowed her head solemnly. "You are so brave! Here's two million dollars!" the reporter from earlier pulled out a check out of nowhere.

"Oh, thank you!" she smiled sweetly.

"Between the talk shows and donation bullshit, she made so much Goddamn cash. Getting shot was the best thing that happened to her!" scoffed Mayberry.

"You're a hero!" called a reporter, taking pictures as she stood at a podium.

"You're a hero, girl!" a jogger exclaimed, running with the cheater.

"My mama's a hero." the redhead boy chirped at the grocery lady. "She is a hero!" agreed the cashier.

"You're a hero!" grunted her husband as they had sex in the late hours.

"You're a hero!" praised an elderly priest as they prayed together.

"You're a hero!" cheered Mrs Mayberry's old students as she came into teach 'How to Deal With Trauma 101.'

"Oh, you're a hero!" groaned a rando as he gave her anal.

*Back in Hell*

"SHE IS NOT A HEROOOOOO!!!!!" screamed Mayberry as she slammed her fists into Blitzo's desk, eyes glowing as she glared at Blitzo and (Y/N).

Nephew and Uncle looked at each other in fear before Blitzo nodded in agreement, hand rapidly pressing a button underneath his desk. "Mmhm, yeah, my thoughts exactly..."

*Outside of Blitzo's office*

On a desk, a red flashing could be seen over a label, 'Deranged client.' Surrounding it,there were various buttons, 'Soiled My Pants, More Coffee, Horny Client, Client Giving Birth, Ghost, and Stolas.'

Ignoring the red button, stood a white haired imp, who was holding a crossbow, and shakily aiming at a photo.

"Moxxie ,stop shaking. You're gonan shoot out only hellhound." scolded a female black haired imp, as she gestured to a gray furred hellhound.

"Wow, I feel so loved here." she replied sarcastically, scrolling through her phone.

"Just take a deep breath," the female imp inhaled deeply, "And let it out." she exhaled sharply.

"But it's a family!" exclaimed Moxxie. "Under what circumstances would we ever need to kill a human family, Millie?"

"I mean, if that's what the client wants." shrugged Millie. "Maybe like a shitty dad, or a mob family, that's understandable," he narrowed his eyes and made a gestured with his hand and spoke with an Italian accent, before turning to normal.

"But to erradicate an entire innocent, seemingly innocent, in this instance, upper middle class family bloodline?!"

"Hey! You don't know they're innocent!" snapped the hellhound, sitting up and pointing at each individual person in the family. "This kid probably sets dogs on fire. Maybe this girl gets off bulling Australian kids online, and this guy, this guy definitely watches." She narrowed her eyes at the dad in the photo.

"Exactly. Humans are full of secret nasties. It's why so many of them end up here. But guilt and innocent aren't our business, Mox. Killing who we're paid to is our business. Choose a target." Millie kissed her husband's cheek.

"I just think it's a bit excessive, and we could be a bit more selective is all. " Moxxie sighed before leaning down to shoot again.

"GUYS, I want you to meet..." Blitzo kicked the door open, to reveal Mayberry, Blitzo and (Y/N) coming out the office, and startling Moxxie who fired in fright.

Everyone watched as the arrow fly all around the room, destroying a computer, the picture the hellhound was still holding and hitting a fish tank making it wobble.

The arrow continued to fly, aiming towards Mrs Mayberry when Blitzo caught it with one hand, eyes close.

"Nice catch." commented (Y/N), nodding in slight awe. "Our newest client." Blitzo said nervously, just as the fish tank fell to the ground, the electric eels and broken computer mixing, and setting the office on fire.

"Damn it Moxxie! I just bought those eels!" "Damn it, do you know how expensive those were, fatass!!" Blitzo and (Y/N) screamed angrily in unison.

*Outside*

The I.M.P. team watched as fire imps came and took the eels after putting the fire out. "Safe travels, ma'am. And don't worry, we'll get that skank in less than 24 hours or your first kill is free!" (Y/N) winked at Mrs Mayberry, activating his succubus power a bit, making the purple demon blush slightly, before the cab drove off.

"When did we start implementing that deal?" asked Moxxie.

"When you set fire to my office in front of a client, you FUCKING DIPSHIT!" Blitzo snapped, before throwing Moxxie away from him. "Now someone please tell me that fancy book is still intact!"

"You mean....our only ticket to the other side? Yeah, got it." The hellhound smirked, holding up a purple book. "That's why you're my favorite, Loonie. You get a tweat now." Blitzo smirked holding up a dog treat.

"Ew, stop." groaned the demoness. Blitzo shrugged and threw the treat up before grabbing it with his tongue like a frog.

(Y/N) gagged at the action. "You're so gross!" Loona and (Y/N) looked at their family member in disgust. Millie drew a pentagram on a nearby wall, making a portal open. "Oh, stop it. I get enough of that from my therapist." "Loona rolled her eyes before disappearing.

"Now let's go lick some ass!" exclaimed Blitzo excitedly as (Y/N) walked through the portal, eyes stuck on his tablet. "It's kick some ass...Blitzo." Millie smiled at her boss, shooting some finger guns at the older imp.

"Mine's better." Blitzo protested as he and Millie jumped through. "Oh, fuck." groaned Moxxie, following the others.

*In the human world, outside of the cheating whore's house*

"Hmm, nice digs." (Y/N) hummed, leading the way towards their target. "Her name is Martha and she's blonde with brown eyes. Says here, she's a mother of two and a wife to Ralph. Tf kind of basic names are these? Get creative, fuckers." (Y/N) muttered to himself in annoyance as he looked at the target's profile.

"She's here. Oh, this is too easy." chuckled Blitzo looking into the family's window. "Moxxie, you want this one?"

"Me?" Moxxie asked in geniune surprise.

"Yeah, this one's simple enough for you to handle," Moxxie looked into the window with a grin before his face fell in disbelief. "Just a happy mother who just got out of the hospital.." Moxxie winced, before Blitzo shrugged.

"You snooze, you lose, Mox." He aimed carefully at Martha as she looked up with doe eyes. "I got you, bitch!" "Wait, are we actually killing a family?" stressed Moxxie.

"No, don't be a puss. We're just killing a mother." Blitzo soothed. "Yeah, we're ruining a family." corrected (Y/N) from where he and Millie were playing Connect Four on his tablet, waiting for this bullshit to be over.

A sudden text from someone named Sweet Cream appeared, with all sorts of filthy emotions. Quickly followed by an, "I can't wait for you to come home so I can (censored) (censored).."

"Ooooohhhhhhh, who's Sweet Cream?" Millie teased, wagging her eyebrows. "Oh, uh, well, that's my girlfriend." (Y/N) smiled softly, cheeks a little red. "OH! Our resident pretty boy has a giirrrrrllllllfriend!!!!!!" "Millllllliiiiiiieeeeeeeee....." whined (Y/N).

*in the house

"But....Hol-Hold on, hold on. Let's just think about this...." Moxxie protested, shoving Blitzo's aim, making the older imp miss the target. The family inside gasped in alarm. "What was that, Ralphie?" Martha asked, worriedly.

"I don't know, Martha," he grinned evilly before pulling out a gun but they're gonna be tomorrow's dinner."

Martha set their dinner down, and pulled out a gun and glass of wine. She downed it before smiling just as evilly as he husband. "Alright kids, guns out!"

The family's eyes all turned red as the kids pulled guns out of thin air.

*With the imps*

Moxxie panted anxiously as Blitzo glared at him. "What the fuck was that, Moxxie?" He demanded. Moxxie burped in anxiety. "I'm sorry, they just seemed so wholesome and happy. I panicked."

"Oh, who the fuck is innocent, Moxxie? From the moment you're already a parasite leeching off your mama's tits, get the fuck over yourself, you baby dick prude!" The older screamed as he was shot in his arm. "A new hole! Scatter!"

Millie, (Y/N) and Blitzo jumped out of the bushes and disappered. The window exploded and Martha and Ralph ran out after the three. Once they were out of sight, Moxxie peeked out hesitently, and tried to make his escape, when his tail was suddenly grabbed.

*With Millie*

Millie flipped around to dodge Ralph's shots and flipped into the lake. "Where you'd go little critter? Y'all can't hide long from me!"

The black haired imp's eyes glowed as she popped under the deck, with a knife in her mouth, before jumping up to attack. Ralph tried to hit her, but missed until Millie jumped to stab him from above, leaving herself wide open for the human to smash his beer bottle against her head.

Millie weakly lifted her knife before collapsing back on her back, watching as the sky darkened to a blood red and Ralph hovering over her with a creepy smile.

*With Moxxie*

Moxxie shook himself awake, gasping seeing the two young children staring at him with wide grins and mencing red eyes. "Oh, well, hello little ones. Aren't you cute?" Moxxie cooed, trying to defuse the situation.

"It's nice to have a new critter to play with." The children spoke, the boy speaking seconds after his sister. Moxxie pursed his lips at their actions before looking around and seeing blood spatter around the room and an array human skin and organs being used as furniture.

"Ohhhh, crumbs."

*With Blitzo and (Y/N)*

The taller imps continued to run through the red forest, dodging Martha's shots. Blitzo paused to catch his breath, while (Y/N) took to the trees, to try and get the upper hand over the human pair. "I know you're hurtin', little devil!"

Blitzo hid behind a tree where (Y/N) was perched on a low branch, panting heavily. "I could make that pain go away, real quick! Just let Mama Martha put a bullet in your pretty little skull!" Martha cooed.

The two sighed in relief as she passed them, only to jump when Blitzo's phone went off, screaming like he was being murdered. "What the fuck? You didn't turn your phone on 'do no disturb'?" hissed (Y/N) as he hung upside down by his tail.

"Damn it, how do I fucking do it?" snapped Blitzo, before answering his phone. "Stolas, this is a really bad time!" "Of course, it's your fucking booty call." (Y/N) rolled his eyes, making Blitzo flick him off.

*With Stolas*

A lanky bird demon slid into his bathtub, deeper into the bubbles. "Mmm, when isn't it a bad time, Blitzy?"

"What is it?"

"I've been meaning to follow up on our last little conversation, regarding my Grimoire." Stolas lifted a finger to a bubble that revealed Blitzo looking angrily at his phone. "What did you just call me?"

"My book, Blitzy. The book I was given to do my job? That I've allowed you to use to do yours?"

*With the I.M.P.s*

"Move!" (Y/N) dropped from the tree and pulled his uncle away from the tree, just in time for Martha to shoot the spot where Blitzo just was. "I can hear you, darlin'!" she called. "Shit!" hissed Blitzo as they continued to run further away.

"Anywhoo, I've been thinking, you know I've been permitting you to access the mortal realm less than legally for some time now, but I do need it back to fufill my duties. I was thinking what if we worked out some sort of exchange? Favors for favors. Doesn't that sound enticing?" Stolas said seductively.

"Stop using your fancy-ass rich people talk, okay? I'm trying to concentrate on net getting fucked in my A!" Blitzo growled as (Y/N) took his gun, Quick Fix, and started firing back.

"Then let me keep it simple: Once a month, on the full moon, you return the book to me, followed by a night of passionate fornication, aaaaaannnd you get to keep the book all the rest of the time, hmm? Sound fair, my little imp?" Stolas popped his lips on the 'p', blushing at the thought of Blitzo absolutely destroying him.

"Fine, whatever!" Blitzo agreed, watching as (Y/N) climbed the tree again, firing into the forest, hoping he sees the blonde bimbo. "Oh, Blitzo! I'm so excited! I cannot wait to feel your slimey (censored), inside of my (censored.)..." Blitzo and (Y/N) looked at the phone in disbelief before looking at each other.

"Don't look at me, that's your hoe." (Y/N) cringed as Stolas continued to talk dirty. Blitzo grunted as he was suddenly pushed against the tree, Martha's gun digging into his throat, phone falling out of his hand. "Gotcha! So you're a little devil, huh? Come to drag me and my kin to Hell? Well, not today, Satan! Gonna send y'all back to where ya came from!" Martha grinned evilly.

Blitzo shook his head at his nephew, telling him not to move. "Fuck." Muttered (Y/N) as he turned to jump in the trees, following them closely.

*With Moxxie*

Moxxie struggled in his binds before a light and church bell in the distance echoed. "Millie!" He gasped, struggling harder. Seeing the girl, holding a knife, Moxxie narrowed his eyes.

He pushed his hooves on the table, giving him momentum to fall back on the girl. Briefly wrestling with her, he got the knife, threw his chair at the window, grabbed a rifle from one of the kids, and took off running towards his friends.

*With Blitzo and Millie and (Y/N)*

(Y/N) watched on a hidden tree branch, as the two humans tied up Blitzo and Millie to a wooden pole. Ralph laughed evilly as he started to pour gasoline on the wood surrounding the two. "I had that shot, goddamn it, Moxxie!" Blitzo grumbled.

"Satan, we return your filthy creatures back to the pits of Hell!" Martha screamed, blonde hair now wild in her manic state. "May the root of evil remain honored as we continue thy work!" With that final statement, she threw her torch onto the wood, watching it grow quickly.

(Y/N) laughed to himself, stood up and brought out his gun and reloading it. 'Humans and their silly rituals.' he thought, feeling amused at this whole thing.

His uncle felt the same as he replied sarcastically. "Yeah, that's not exactly how it works, lady. Sorry, your fire really doesn't hurt us, but you know I could fake it if that'll get your dick hard." Millie and (Y/N) continued to giggle to themselves as Blitzo motioned his tail in a jerking off motion.

"Oh, shit." Martha muttered before grinning again, holding up her gun. "Well, I'll just shoot you in your smart ass mouth." "That would be more effective." Blitzo smirked.

"Blitzo!" Millie and (Y/N) scolded in unison, the latter face palming at his uncle's idiotic nonsense.

Martha loaded her gun, and the tied up imps winced in anticipation. Martha yelped as two gun shots ran in the air.

Blitzo and Millie opened their eyes to see Martha had lost an eye, and was also shot through her heart. Her body collapsed to reveal Moxxie and (Y/N) with guns in their hands.

"Moxxie!" Millie smiled as her husband ran over to untie them. (Y/N) walked over to Martha to ensure she was dead. I mean, the bitch survived a chainsaw and a gun shot wound before. Her heart stopped beating and she laid motionless. (Y/N) took his tablet out and took a picture of the dead body before turning to help untie his uncle.

"You're not getting your goddamn paycheck for this one, Moxxie. (Y/N), you're good as always." The younger imp rolled his eyes. "Of course I am. You forget I'm in charge of our finances, so I pay myself."

(Y/N) watched as Blitzo fell to the floor, while Millie and Moxxie embraced each other. Ralph quickly fled the scene, tripping over Martha's body as he went.

"Oh, yeah! I'm fine!" grumbled the red and white imp. Moxxie rushed over to help him up. "I'm sorry, sir. I compromised our objective and put us in harm's way. It won't happen again, I promise." Moxxie apologized.

"Apology accepted!" Blitzo pulled Moxxie into a hug, before whispering lowly, "But if you ever pull a stunt like this again, I will fuck you and make (Y/N) fuck your wife." Moxxie looked at his boss, weirded out.

"All righty! Job well done, now let's get off!" Blitzo shouted, digging through his jacket. "Oh yeah, eh, give me a moment. I need to get something I left at the house."

"Okay, fine, but hurry up. Loona, we're ready to come home, dear!" He shouted into his second phone.

*With Moxxie*

Moxxie ran through the forest with a riffle in hands. He ran past Blitzo's old phone, on speaker, with Stolas still using vulgar language. "(Censored, censored, censored.)"

At the house, Ralph pulled his kids close, kissing his daughter's head.

"Don't move." Moxxie ordered. "What are you gonna do, little guy?" Ralph chuckled. "I should. You people are monsters! But you should have a chance at life and a purpose. Look at your children. They have their whole future ahead of them. You are going to face your crimes justly. I will call your Earthly authorities and they will make sure you are dealt with fairly. I'm handling this my way." Moxxie nodded in approvement.

He clicked a button on a remote and turned the TV on. Hearing the TV playing in the background, he huffed. "Oh, shit. Um, do you have a phone to summon 911?"

"Yeah, it's in the kitchen." Ralph pointed towards the kitchen with his thumb. "Then what is this for?"

"It's a universal remote. Got it for the kids." Ralph smiled lovingly at his children who smilied happily back. "Awww....." Moxxie smiled, eyes softening.

*Back with everyone else*

"Come on, (Y/N)! What's your girlfriend's nameeeeeeee?" Millie whined, shaking (Y/N)'s shoulders. He laughed before shaking her back, "You have to guesssssssss." "What you have a girlfriend? How come I didn't know this (Y/N)?! I thought we were friends." Loona huffed, from the other side of the portal.

"Is she hot?" Blitzo asked. (Y/N) raised an eyebrow and looked him up and down. "Hotter than that piece of bird ass that's chasing after you." Blitzo stumbled over his words before sticking his middle finger up. "Fuck you, nephew!" He exclaimed. Millie giggled at their interaction as Moxxie approached.

"There he is. Have a good wank-off session, Moxxie?" Blitzo asked. "Excuse me?" he raised an eyebrow.

"Look, I don't care where you cum in the living world. Just come to your job on time. Alright? See you in the office!" Blitzo smiled cheerfully before hoping into the portal, (Y/N) hopping in after him, fingers typing back as he replied to his girlfriend.

Millie cupped Moxxie's cheek. "You doing okay, sweetie?" "Better now, honey. I think I just needed a minute to process." Moxxie nodded. "You have a good heart, honey. Just a fluffy head." Millie kissed Moxxie before hopping into the portal. Moxxie went to follow when a siren caught his attention.

He turned towards the house to see multiple cops appearing at the cannibals house. "We got you surrounded!" yelled a cop through a megaphone. With that final statement, they fired a rocket at the house, killing the family instantly.

Moxxie watch wide-eyed, and looked down at the teddy bear that the girl was holding earlier. Blitzo grabbed Moxxie by his neck and dragged him through the portal.

*Back at I.M.P.*

The crew gathered around the table, wearing party hats and holding cake in their hand. Blitzo's arm was now in wrapped up and in a sling, courtesy of (Y/N)'s handiwork.

"Well, here's to another mission accomplished! And Moxxie finally learned not to fuck up." Blitzo grinned. "And killing people isn't that big of a deal if they try to kill you back." Millie nodded.

"That's messed up," Mrs Mayberry frowned, before smiling, "But I paid for it." Everyone except Moxxie started laughing.

"Fuck that family."

*At the end of the work day*

(Y/N) sighed loudly as he flopped back onto his couch. "Fucking psychos. I need a blunt." He grumbled, digging into his bag and pulling out a lighter.

Turning his lighter on, he inhaled deeply and let the smoke sit in his lungs. Exhaling slowly, he sunk into the couch, and turned on the TV just as his apartment door opened. "Hey, sweetness." he called, lazily waving his hand in the air.

"Hey, baby." called a velvet voice. A pink skinned demoness leaned over the couch to smile down at (Y/N). "How's my beautiful Verosika?" He asked as she sat down next to him, throwing her long legs over his lap. He took her heels off and started massaging his feet as she inhaled the blunt.

"Better, now that I'm home with Hell's sexiest assassin." They continued to pass the blunt back and forth when (Y/N)'s stomach growled loudly. "Ha, sounds like you had a long day. Take out?"

"More like I'm gonna eat you out." (Y/N) mumbled, getting between her legs. "Chinese sound good after?"

"Yes, whatever you want, princess. But can I please eat you out now?" He begged, pressing a kiss to her thigh. Verosika giggled, leaning back.

"Yes, Daddy."

[destiis-wayfarers]

Fratricide? Must be a Tuesday

A little piece of Kailis' backstory, written for Wayfarer's (@idrellegames) 3rd birthday

Fandom: Wayfarer - Idrelle Games

Tags/TWs: Angst, Child Abuse, Sibling Rivalry, Childhood Trauma, Heights

Read on AO3

Fratricide? Must be a Tuesday

The wind was strong up here, rushing past Kailis' back and tugging at his clothes. His long hair flew around him wildly, whipping at his face, the tips catching in his mouth. Kailis clung to the stones, fingertips seeking the gaps between rock and mortar as he hauled himself up toward the summit. His limbs shook and every time he tried to breathe in, the cold air pierced his lungs.

This was the highest he'd ever climbed, ever dared to climb. The tower stretched on above him, the courtyard below, the rooftop of the main house between. His siblings stood in the courtyard, their comments and jeers that had initially spurred him on now snatched away by the wind. His heart beat like a bird's, blood rushing through his veins and reminding him that he was really, truly alive. 

He could see the city stretching out before him, the red-tiled roofs and whitewashed buildings clustered together like adults whispering in corners, the twisting spaces between them like leylines to be explored. To his right, the city gave way to mountains in the distance, snow-capped and colossal. To his left, there was nothing but ocean, stretching out forever. Only the bravest ships were dancing on the rough winter waves. His father's fleet would be out there, somewhere, but Kailis couldn't spot any of their blue sails. 

Kailis reached up for the next stone that jutted out just a little farther than the rest. His fingers felt frozen and numb, barely able to catch the edge of the rough stone and dig in to haul himself up another inch. 

"Master Marcello, please come down!" a panicked servant called from below him. Kailis glanced down and saw her clutching the edge of the window that he'd just broken. He'd felt the wards bend and snap as he climbed through, shattering into a thousand fractals that scattered in the wind. 

He also saw how far he'd climbed, the rooftop many feet below. He pressed his forehead to the stones, closing his eyes against the distance and his head against the possible consequences of his choices. With shaking muscles and shuddering breath, he looked up again and let go of one stone to seek another. The wind screamed in his ears, whistling through the small gap between his body and the tower's wall, buffeting him against it as though it sought to rip him off and strike him down. 

Accompanied by a little popping sound and whisps of golden magic, his elder brother suddenly appeared above him, sitting casually on the roof of the tower and kicking his feet out into the breeze. His blood-red hair surrounded him like an ominous halo as he sneered down at Kailis.

"Doesn't look like you're going to make it, runt!" Kriton yelled, the golden glow in his eyes slowly fading as he released his spatial magic. 

"Master Marcello!" the servant cried out again, her voice raising in pitch and desperation. Kailis wasn't sure if she was addressing him or his brother, but it didn't matter; they both ignored her.

"I... Can... Do it!" Kailis called back between gasps. 

He definitely couldn't do it. He was pretty certain of that now. 

His body was both on fire and frozen in place. His muscles were locking up and every time he tried to reach out for the next stone or dragged his leg up to find a new foothold, he gasped in pain. He realised with a shock that his fingertips were bleeding, the blood soaking into the porous stone and leaving little stains when he let go. That same blood rushed through his head, each heartbeat felt like a pounding drum on the inside of his skull. Tol Covere wobbled to his right, the buildings becoming as fluid as the ocean.

"Give it up, brat," Kriton said, his voice not as strained now that Kailis had closed the gap between them. He leaned over the edge to look at Kailis, silken clothes rippling against the gale that beat at them. "What do you think you're going to prove?" he asked with a smirk. 

Kailis stared up at him through half-closed eyes, swallowing hard against a raw throat. He wanted to prove them wrong. Prove to them that he could do it. That he didn't need magic to do anything. But he knew how stupid that was. He knew how the world worked, he'd travelled it enough. No one cared about magianis. No one cared about him .

" Please , Master Marcello!" the servant wailed up at them, her voice haunting as the winds snatched it away, "bring the child back safely!" She sounded sick with worry. But the fear wasn't for Kailis; it was for what his father would do if he found out she'd failed in her duty. 

"Don't worry, I'll send him down to you," Kriton yelled back, a vicious grin on his face as he looked at Kailis. 

"Wait..." Kailis gasped, scrambling against stone, and scraping his arms as he rushed to reach the roof. Kriton's grin turned into a laugh as he watched Kailis struggle. Leisurely, he lifted his leg, his eyes pooling with gold magic as he prepared to teleport safely to the ground.

"Wait wait wait!" Kailis screamed, panic gripping his chest and squeezing so tight he felt like his ribs might break. The golden mist swirled around Kriton as his foot came down and connected with Kailis' shoulder, slamming into him as only the force of a grown adult kicking a child could achieve. 

Kailis felt himself shudder at the impact as he reached out in desperation, clawing at stone, at air, at Kriton's boot. 

And gripping. 

He tumbled backwards, the world rushing from stone wall and Kriton's sneering face to brilliant blue sky and gulls screeching overhead. 

And then Kriton came with him, yanked forward by Kailis' weight suddenly clutched onto his leg like an anchor.

There was a yelp and a curse and hands in his hair and on his face yanking, pulling, shoving. Kailis crushed his eyes closed, holding onto his brother as tight as he could. Someone screamed from below, the sound sharpening and then cutting off as they plummeted passed the source. 

And then they slammed into the rooftop, Kailis folding in on himself like a sack of vegetables. 

Kailis' body bounced and the siblings came undone, disconnected but still a tangle of limbs and bodies smashing into one another as they tumbled down the roof. The world was a blur, flashes of red tile and stone wall and blue sky and dead trees and pink hair and purple skin and whisps of gold magic that blinked in and out of existence. 

And then Kailis was in freefall again, for just a second, before his back slammed into the courtyard below and everything went dark. 

Kriton stood rigid in their father's study. His hands were pinned to his sides and he stared forward like a Brightblade on parade. Unlike Kailis, he looked little more than windswept, his broken arm and minor injuries having been healed only moments ago. Kailis, in comparison,  stood beside him like a war victim. He was covered in dirt and welting cuts and was swaying a little on his feet. His was face scraped and raw from hitting the roof, his head pounded each time he moved, and there was a pain deep in his spine that wouldn't shift. He'd only passed out for a few minutes, according to the servant, but he felt like he was falling forward, ever forward into darkness.

"You foolish boy," their father spat at Kriton, who stood so statuesque, "you would leave me without an appropriate heir?" he demanded, eyes glowing red with power. Kriton made some small noises, somewhere between a mewling whine and a groan, but his lips remained firmly closed. Their father wasn't interested in hearing him just yet. Kailis' head throbbed and he could feel something tickling the back of his neck, travelling down until it met his shirt. 

Kriton is not a boy , Kailis thought dully. He was a man, even if full-blooded melusine grew slowly. His foot was big and it had stamped into Kailis' shoulder and if Kriton was still a boy he probably would have been okay. Kailis picked at the blood crusted under his nails. 

"You might be a skilled planeswalker, but you're apparently wholly incapable of using your head!" their father exclaimed, pacing out from behind the desk to stand in front of them both. Kailis let his hands fall back to his sides. He might be immune to his father's magic, but that didn't mean he was allowed to move. 

"And you!" their father's ire turned to Kailis and Kriton visibly relaxed, shoulders slumping forward and a gasp of air escaping him. "What were you doing up there? More than breaking my house's wards I hope?" his father asked, standing in front of Kailis and towering over him. Kailis didn't look up.

"He dared me," he said, focusing all his attention on staying upright. The floor seemed to undulate beneath him like a giant serpent.

"And you simply did it?" his father asked incredulously, "are you a dog?"

"No..." Kailis mumbled, gripping the bottom of his shirt and tensing his muscles against the pain that lanced down his spine, "I wanted to prove I could do it."

"And, yet, you obviously could not," his father replied with derision.

"I could!" Kailis yelled, head snapping up to look at his father who scowled down at him from a great height, face like thunder and body an immovable mountain. "If he hadn't kicked me, I would have made it!" He protested, shoving at Kriton's side weakly and doing little more than making him rock onto his heels. 

"It's not my fault you're weak!" Kriton snapped back, grabbing Kailis by the hair and yanking him up onto his toes. Kailis tried not to cry out as the pain erupted at the back of his head, but his vision blurred with tears as he struggled in his brother's grasp.

"Enough," their father said calmly and Kriton released him, shoving him down to fall onto his knees. Kailis stared at the floor, fighting through nausea and pain that crashed down on him like waves. The tears fell one at a time, splattering on the hardwood and landing on the back of his hands. 

"Get up," his father's voice cut in across the whoosh of blood in his ears. Kailis wiped at his eyes with the back of his hand and pushed himself up onto shaking legs, stumbling once as the world threatened to go dark again. 

"I will not suffer fools," his father said, arms crossed as he glanced between them both. Kriton stared forehead, face impassive. "Kriton, you will train your brother." 

"Father..." Kriton began, taking a half-step forward, panic creeping into his voice. Their father held up a hand, eyes flooding with magic, and Kriton stopped in place, frozen in the binds that held him.

"If you prove too much a fool to run my empire once I am gone, I will have contingencies. You will train your brother as I trained you." Their father said, releasing Kriton with a flick of his hand. 

"I don't want to run the company..." Kailis muttered, as though anyone would care what he wanted. 

The blow came fast and with force. His father's hand connected with his face and Kailis was flung sideways. He threw his hands out to catch himself but the ground caught him first, his cheek breaking his fall and his skull bouncing off the hardwood floor.

"Pathetic," his father muttered from above him as his vision sank once more to black.