#characters bashing

[merlinpotterandtherandom]

{ TW: Characters bashing }

Harry caught Ginny cheating on him at their engagement party, so he just broke up with her straightaway, the party had stopped and everyone went to see what was going on when Ginny started crying. They took her side, saying that Harry shouldn't throw away his life with Ginny just because she made a mistake. Harry had enough of that bullshit and left.

Harry went home and packed up everything he had, well, almost everything, he left behind the photos he had with Ginny and their friends, only taking photos he had of his parents and Sirius and Remus and Tonks and Teddy and Andromeda. Harry left a letter asking everyone to not contact him ever again. When he was leaving, he stopped briefly at Andromeda's house, since she and Teddy couldn't make it to the party 'cause Teddy was sick with the flu, and told her everything that happened and that he was leaving and he would keep contact with her and Teddy, and Andromeda said there was no need and that once Harry had found somewhere to establish himself, he should contact her and she and Teddy would move away to be in the same place as him. Harry agreed and went on to find a lovely small town in America that he could establish himself in. Harry then contacted Andromeda and she packed up her and Teddy's things and went on to find a cozy home in the same street as Harry found his.

In this new town, Harry met Draco again. He had no idea that the Slytherin had moved away. so it was a surprise to see him there. They both decided that since they both moved away for a fresh start, they should start again too. Harry and Draco became really good friends. Draco got along with Andromeda and Teddy splendidly and Harry was surprised to say that he and Narcissa Malfoy really got along, Narcissa even made peace with Andromeda and the two sisters now had a weekly tea party with only the two of them.

About two years after that, it was natural when Harry and Draco took a step forward and started dating each other. They got engaged a year after that and got married in December, 'cause they both thought a Yule wedding would be so nice. About a year after their wedding, they welcomed their twins, Scorpius James Potter-Malfoy and Amalthea Lily Potter-Malfoy. Scorpius had Draco's blonde hair and Harry's green eyes, while Amalthea had Draco's silver eyes and she surprised all of them by being born with strawberry blonde hair. Teddy was thrilled with his new baby cousins, he was mad that he was the last one allowed to hold the babies.

Another year goes by and now it's been 5 years since Harry left the UK and went to live in America with Andromeda and Teddy and ended up finding his family there. Harry was happy, the happiest he'd ever been, until one day he came back home from his work as a healer and found two of the people he thought he'd never see again camping in his door: Ron and Hermione. Harry let out a sigh of relief that this was one of the days where Draco, that worked from home as a potions master, took the day off and went to spend it with their twins at his mother's house. Harry did take his phone out and sent Draco a text asking to please stay at Narcissa's a little longer 'cause he was dealing with some unwanted guests and that he would explain as soon as he was done dealing with them. Draco texted him back just asking Harry to be safe. Harry then turned to Ron and Hermione and asked them how they found him and Hermione explained that she had to do a lot of research, but she finally found Harry, after 5 years looking. Both Hermione and Ron were begging Harry to go back with them, get back with Ginny so they could finally have the life Harry once dreamed about...Harry says no thank you and calls the aurors, that came really fast, and pressed charges on both Ron and Hermione for stalking him and that's when Hermione gets a glimpse of Harry's wedding ring. She is shocked that Harry is married with someone that isn't Ginny. Harry ignores Hermione's questions and just talks with the aurors there and once they take Ron and Hermione away, Harry texts Draco saying it's okay to come home and when Draco comes, he's not with the twins, so he explains that he thought that it would be safer if they all spent the night at Narcissa's, which Harry agrees, so they pack up a few things for the night and leave, and then when they're at Narcissa's, Harry thinks it's easier to explain everything to everyone at once, so they call Andromeda and Teddy and once they arrive, Harry explains what happened. They all agree that it might be better if they move cities now, so they choose a new city and move there with the houses all being in Narcissa's name now, so Ron and Hermione can't try and track Harry that way, if they used that.

Around a year later after all this ordeal, Harry and Draco welcome their third child, a baby girl that they named Polaris Narcissa Potter-Malfoy. Around two years after Polaris, they welcome their fourth child, another baby girl that they named Cassiopeia Andromeda Potter-Malfoy.

When it marks 10 years since Harry left UK, Harry and Draco are talking with Narcissa and Andromeda about going back. In the end they decide to wait until Scorpius and Amalthea recieve their magical school letters and give them the option to go to Hogwarts, if they want to.

On the twins' eleventh birthday, the letters come and Harry and Draco sit all of their 4 children down and talk to them about going back to UK and talk to the twins if they want to go to Hogwarts. They aren't sure, since Teddy went to Ilvermorny and really liked it there. Harry and Draco assure their children that if they want to transfer to the other school after the first year, they can do that, no problem. So the twins end up choosing Hogwarts, to see what the whole deal about their parents' school is.

Once the twins arrive at Hogwarts, the professor reading the names stops a bit at Amalthea and Scorpius' last names. McGonagall, who is still the headmistress, just facepalms and wonders what chaos the children of Harry Potter and Draco Malfoy will bring to Hogwarts.

[ladystoneshart]

I feel so bad for myrcella like imagine you're a 10 year old chess prodigy who only wants to be cute and hang out with her friends but you end up losing like half of your face because your boyfriend's hot sister convinced your newest father figure that you would be a good president (you would)

AND ALSO you and your siblings are doomed to die in childhood because your dumbass loser mother who you haven't seen in like 2 years received a cursed prophecy from a circus magician when she was a child (???) free myrcella man wtf

[u-kuwago]

(eye twitching) they’ve completely taken over my head Have some more self indulgent spamtenna

[charmwasjess]

I actually love the characterization that while Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan truly do love each other very much and end up having a successful working partnership, they are SUCH different people, and actually, really find each other fucking annoying when you get right down to it, while still caring deeply about each other. Qui-Gon is having a stratosphere-level theoretical philosophical conversation in his head while Obi-Wan is so present and practical and funny, and then Qui-Gon's reply when he snaps out of it is like "....stay in the moment, Obi-Wan." Live Obi-Wan Reaction Face: >:o

I think about two scenes I love in Phantom Menace where the film is establishing Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan's dynamic. Obi-Wan's great moment after the, uh, first attempt on their lives "you were right about one thing, Master - the negotiations were short" which is like, actually a genuinely funny observation? Qui-Gon's reaction to this? Nonexistent. We do not get a shot of Qui-Gon's expression, not even an off-camera Liam Neeson dry reluctant chuckle. NOTHING. Cut scene. Sure, this could be the fault of the scene transition, but I don't think anyone watching the scene was under the impression that Qui-Gon bellylaughed and said "good one, Padawan!" The mood is much more of Qui-Gon shaking his head, not dignifying the line with a response.

The other is Qui-Gon's "there's always a bigger fish" line after they've nearly died in another horrific way under the Naboo planet core, a scene that gives me a powerful new kind of combination of fatal levels of thalassophobia-claustrophobia. It could have easily been a "business on Cato Neimoidia" callback reference to some offscreen history together, but no. Qui-Gon just says it, incomprehensibly, while Obi-Wan scowls silently at the controls. And yet, Qui-Gon sounds contentedly amused. It's so fucking hilarious to me. He said that line for the benefit of one person in that ship: him, and he likes it.

They don't get each other's jokes, and yet, I think it's telling that they're both still making them after what, 12 years of Master Padawan partnership. They are both constantly thinking like “what are you TALKING about?” about the other one's core qualities. They both think their miscommunications are the other’s fault. It's incredibly good characterization to me, and it makes them so realistic.

[rin-rin-kururin]

do you too look at your travel companion with silent longing or you're normal

i have this urge to crop my image this particulare way and leave it as it is. but I feel bad so here is a full image

anyway sifdile stay winning and I actually did normal drawing of these two wow

[karakt]

Monster Klub

[mumblesplash]

hands down favorite fandom discovery so far is that most of the iwtv tvtropes page reads like a lestat callout post

[atomicrebelfire]

Buck felt rejected. Tommy felt uninvited.

I don’t think Buck ever truly understood what Tommy needed from him.

He didn’t need a grand gesture — Just a confident sign. A crack in the door. A flicker of warmth. Some signal that says: you’re allowed to try.

And when he gets that? He moves.

— Buck says he wanted Tommy’s attention → Tommy kisses him. — Buck says maybe he’s ready for something → Tommy says yes. Shows up to the party. Shows up to the wedding. — Buck and Tommy hook up → Tommy makes breakfast, unpacks the coffee machine, buys champagne like maybe this means something. — Buck says thank you → Tommy says, “And for you.”

He doesn’t storm in. He doesn’t force his way into anyone’s life. He just reads the room, and when he sees the smallest opening — he acts. Quietly, decisively, fully, with care.

But Buck never understood that. And that’s the real tragedy.

Buck’s emotional. He feels everything. But he doesn’t act on it without certainty. He spirals. He waits to be invited.

Tommy? He came out late. He lived through silence. He was in the Army. Under Gerrard. Engaged to a woman once. He knows how to live with restraint — and still, somehow, he shows up.

Especially for someone like Tommy, who spent years in places where silence was survival — he’s not going to beg. But he will take the risk, if you leave the door cracked.

And S8 Buck? Never did. Not enough.

During the breakup, Tommy said something real:

“I know how this ends. I’m your first, not your last.”

He put his fear on the table. Buck did try — he even said, “they can be the same thing”

But even that wasn’t something Tommy could hold onto. It was a maybe, not a confident yes.

And when Tommy reached for something solid? Buck didn’t say, “You’re wrong.” He didn’t say, “I want this.” He didn’t say, “Stay.” So Tommy left.

Later, at the bar, Tommy brought it up — said he thought about reaching out. He drove past Buck’s place. He typed the message.(bubbling) (But Buck never opened the door. So Tommy never hit send.)

Buck shut it down with : “No way.” No opening. No invitation. Just more confusion.

Then Buck invited him. And Tommy took that as hope. He didn’t just stay the night — he unpacked the coffee machine. He brought food. He probably bought champagne. He thought it meant something.

But when Buck lashed out:

“You know, I don't have to want to sleep with everyone I have feelings for. And I don't have to have feelings for everyone I sleep with.”

Tommy read the room again. Said, “Got it.” And left.

Not because he didn’t care. But because he’d learned to stop reaching where he’s not wanted.

And the part that breaks me?

Buck knew. He told Maddie the morning after: “I was cruel.” Said, “I should call him.” But he never did.

And this is where our headcanon comes in — because based on everything we’ve seen from Tommy:

If Buck had called. Even just a text. Even unsure, even messy. Tommy would’ve taken the chance. He’s always taken the chance.

So yeah. Maybe Buck felt rejected and abandoned. Maybe he thought Tommy gave up too fast.

But from Tommy’s side?

He’d kissed first. Said yes first. Shown up every time. He’d taken risks, again and again — every time Buck gave him a sliver of permission.

And Buck never realized how easy it would’ve been to meet him halfway.

He just needed one more sign.

And he would’ve come back. Like he always did.

PS: This is just my interpretation — canon-supported but built on emotional headcanon. Personally, I don’t think Tommy ran because he was scared. I think he didn’t see an opening. And Buck never realized Tommy didn’t need a guarantee — just a signal. he would moves the second he's allowed. Always open to thoughts, counterpoints, or things I missed — would love to discuss more 💬

[batfambrainrotbeloved]

Bruce Wayne, mentor to many- father to none.

I want the angst of B having to come to terms that he doesn't know ANY of his kids not anymore at least and maybe never and the fact his kids are just- used to it?

Visiting Dicks apartment, he finds a picture of him smiling while surrounded by a bunch of little kids in spandax uniforms. Turns out he'd been a gymnastics instructor for about four years now and his most recent team had everyone qualify for state. (Bruce didn't even know he still practiced)

Jason stopped accepting Wednesday night patrols, but when he looked into it he found out that was the night he went to DND nights with his roommates every week. The roommates he met last semester after he decided to go to college and get an english major. (Bruce didn't even know he had applied)

Checking the library he found a small pedastal plague put up by Alfred displaying just one book. It said Cass was the author. Apparently she had gotten super into writing and published a book talking about language deprivation and lack of accomidation for deaf/hoh children born to hearing families. She had a book signing last month, Alfred had gone and grabbed this copy now on display (Bruce didn't even know she liked to write)

Tim finished a case early and let it slip he needed to sign off early to "meet up with his boyfriends" and hung up before Bruce could process. It only took a small glance at his middle child's latest social media post to see him alongside Superboy (what was his name?) and a blonde boy he didn't recognize. Both were leaned in to kiss his cheek and the caption said "Happy 3rd anniversary!!" (Bruce didn't even know he was interested in boys)

Steph's birthday came around and Bruce got her a new account and shoved a couple thousand for her to buy whatever she wanted. But he quickly noticed a pattern of everyone getting her- cat supplies? Apparently She had adopted a cat about a month ago to celebrate her new apartment, Mister Mystery was his name, and she had asked everyone for supplies instead of other gifts. (Bruce didn't even know she had moved)

He decided on some impromptu father-son bonding and tries to track down his youngest. But Damian is nowhere to be found. He gets pretty close to calling an emergency meeting but the moment he messages Oracle she reminds him Damian is in Chicago. Damian had won an art competition at school and his piece qualified for a gallery spot. The entire family had gone days ago and he was due back the next day. (Bruce didn't even know he cared about art)

Then Duke- his youngest in terms of time spent. But one he had grown fond of just as fast as the others. Especially working the day shift the time they spent was limited. Bruce got them both lunch, but it wasn't until halfway through eating that Duke had turned to him with panicked eyes and asked if the stew had shellfish. Duke had a severe allergy, thankfully Jason had been just up the street and had an epi-pen ready before they took him to Leslies. (Bruce didnt even know he had any allergies, let alone one so severe)

The worst part? There was no blow up. His kids didn't take his idiocracy as a personal insult or even raise a fight. They just rolled their eyes and moved on. As everyone crowded in the room, surrounding Dukes bedside he could hear Barbras voice. "Its not your fault, Batman may be omnipotent, but Bruce doesn't know anything really"

He wasnt meant to overhear or maybe he was, Oracle had always been petty But he couldn't refute it.

"But you have us"

Well- thats just it wasnt it? Even when Bruce was absent- his kids had each other. But was that ever meant to be enough?

[drawnbythestream]

Started reading a promising-looking fic only to, yet again, find it to be full of characters being annoyed at and wanting to hit Qui-gon (for stuff he never even did in canon). Which is not my idea of a fun or productive use of my time. So I decided to recycle a Ponyo pose instead (because redrawing scenes from studio ghibli is calming)

[nevertem]

[rianemorgan]

Title: Stealing HER Fate

Summary: In an alternate take on the Miraculous Ladybug universe, an outsider wakes up in Marinette's world and steals her fate as Ladybug, determined to claim the life and destiny that wasn’t hers. With manipulative cunning, the reader becomes Paris’ celebrated heroine, earning Adrien’s love and the world’s admiration while ensuring Marinette never steps into the role of Ladybug across all timelines.

⚠️ Warnings ⚠️

Gaslighting and manipulation, Villainous protagonist, Bittersweet outcomes,and Character alteration and reimagination.

Word Count: 3,718

.

.

You never expected to wake up in Paris—not the Paris you knew, but a version straight out of a TV screen. The last thing you remembered was falling asleep after yet another late-night binge of Miraculous: Tales of Ladybug and Chat Noir, grumbling about how Marinette didn’t deserve the Miraculous of the Ladybug. She was clumsy, obsessive, and a borderline stalker when it came to Adrien.

“She doesn’t deserve it,” you’d mutter to yourself, turning off the screen. “I could do so much better.”

When you woke up, everything felt… different.

You weren’t in your bed, in your small, cozy apartment back in your real life. Instead, you were in a room you didn’t recognize, adorned with pictures of a family you’d never seen before. The soft morning light seeped through lacy curtains, and outside, the faint sound of Parisian streets hummed. Paris.

No. It couldn’t be.

You bolted upright, scanning the room. It was utterly surreal, yet painfully familiar. The pictures of the Eiffel Tower, the smell of croissants wafting through the house—this was Paris. But it wasn’t your Paris. It was the Paris of Miraculous: Tales of Ladybug and Chat Noir.

You stumbled to the mirror, half-expecting to see your usual face. But no, it was still you, albeit… younger. A moment of panic set in, but the surreal reality quickly overtook it. Somehow, impossibly, you were in the Miraculous universe. And if you were here, you knew exactly what was going to happen next.

Your initial excitement quickly morphed into envy. Marinette, in all her awkwardness, was destined to become the heroine, to wield the Ladybug Miraculous and save Paris. But why? You were smarter, more decisive, and less distracted. If anyone deserved that kind of power, it was you.

And then you realized—you could take it.

The memory of the Origins episode was fresh in your mind. Master Fu would soon be in trouble, and Marinette was supposed to save him. But if you acted first, you could claim the Miraculous and rewrite destiny itself.

The plan was simple: stay close to Marinette, wait for the right moment, and steal her fate.

That morning, your new parents—kind strangers who felt oddly warm—called you down to breakfast. They smiled as though you’d always been their child, and while it was disconcerting, you played along. Over croissants and jam, your mother handed you a small box of mooncake. “For your first day at your new school,” she said with a smile.

You nodded, murmuring your thanks. But your mind was already racing. You knew the plot. You knew what today would bring. You were determined to take the chance Marinette was supposed to have. After all, why not? If fate had given you this opportunity, then wasn’t it meant to be yours?

The streets of Paris were just as lively as you imagined, the sights both foreign and familiar. You approached the school with your cookies in hand, keeping an eye out for the key moment.

At the crosswalk, you saw him: Master Fu, the elderly guardian of the Miraculouses, hobbling across the street. You watched from a distance, your heart pounding as you spotted the scene unfolding. This was the moment. This was where Marinette was supposed to step in.  

But not today.

You ran forward, reaching him just in time. “Sir, watch out!” you shouted, grabbing his arm and pulling him to safety. The car whizzed by, the driver honking angrily.

Master Fu looked up at you with a warm, grateful smile. “Thank you, young lady. That was very brave of you.”

You smiled warmly, masking your inner glee. “It was nothing, sir. Are you okay?”

He nodded, adjusting his cane. He wobbled precariously, and you helped steady  him. “Here, let me help you,” you said, guiding him to the sidewalk.

“That’s very kind of you,” he said, his voice filled with gratitude.

You noticed Marinette standing a few steps away, her box of macarons clutched tightly. She had seen the whole thing, but she hadn’t had a chance to act. You shot her a quick glance, a small smirk playing on your lips.

Would you like one of these?” you asked, pulling a mooncake from the box and handing it to Master Fu.

“Thank you,” he said, taking it with a smile. “You’re a very thoughtful young lady.”

Marinette hesitated, her eyes darting between you and Master Fu. “Um… I was going to—”

“Oh, were you?” you interrupted, feigning surprise. “Sorry, I didn’t see you there.”

Marinette frowned but didn’t respond. She tightened her grip on her macarons and walked away, her excitement from earlier dimmed.

As you made your way to school, a flicker of guilt passed through you. You now destroy Marinette’s chance to be Ladybug. No. You stole her chance to be Ladybug. But she didn’t need to be Ladybug. You were here now, and you would be better.

The classroom buzzed with energy as you entered. Marinette Dupain-Cheng sat near the front, she stares at you but quickly looks away. It's obvious she didn’t like you when a frown curved her mouth. You didn’t care, you're not here to be friends with her anyways. You took a seat a few rows away, watching as the class dynamics played out like clockwork: Chloé Bourgeois asserting her dominance, and Alya standing up for Marinette, But your focus was elsewhere. Your mind was on what would come later.

Later that day, the akuma attack on Stoneheart interrupted class. You feigned fear like everyone else, though inside, you were buzzing with anticipation. This was how the story began.

Because of what happened, school was suspended, sending every student back to the safety of their homes. You returned home to find a small ornate box on your desk. You opened it with trembling hands, revealing the Ladybug Miraculous. Tikki appeared, her tiny figure glowing with excitement.

You fake shout in surprise, asking what she is.

“Hello! I’m Tikki, your kwami. And Y/N, you’ve been chosen to wield the Ladybug Miraculous and protect Paris!”

You feigned shock, though inwardly you were thrilled. “Me? Are you sure? I’m just… I don’t know if I can do this.”

Tikki’s eyes sparkled. “You can. I believe in you. You have the courage and heart to protect Paris! Just wear the earring and say the phrase: Spots On!”

Meanwhile, Marinette couldn’t shake the feeling that something was wrong. Her first day had started with such promise, but it had ended with a strange, gnawing emptiness.

She vented to Alya the next day. “It’s just… that girl, she swooped in and saved that man. I wanted to help, but she just… took over.”

Alya raised an eyebrow. “You mean Y/N? I don’t know her that well, but she seemed nice enough. Maybe you’re just thinking too much about it, Marinette.”

Marinette frowned. “Maybe…”

But the doubt lingered.

The battle against Stoneheart played out just as you had anticipated, though with one key difference: you were in control and you already knew what to do. With the help of Chat Noir, you used your Lucky Charm to defeat the villain and purify the akuma, restoring Ivan to normal.

The people of Paris cheered as you stood victorious. You had done it. You were Ladybug.

Days turned into weeks, and you quickly became the perfect hero Paris needed. You saved the city countless times, each victory cementing your role as its protector. Fighting alongside Chat Noir was exhilarating. The people adored you, showering you with praise and gratitude.

But Marinette hated you. She didn’t hide it, either. She avoided you at school, her glares sharp enough to cut glass whenever you crossed paths.

You returned the sentiment. Marinette’s bitterness annoys you to no end. 

“I know you’re hiding something!! You’re not what they say you are!” Marinette snapped one day after school. “I know it!! You stole something from me!!

You smirked, leaning against a wall. “I don’t know what you're talking about Marinette, you can’t just convict me without evidence~ who knows I might slip and suddenly post this to the internet~” You said whilst holding a phone with evidence of Marinette stalking adrien.

Her face turned a lot more pale than it already was, her hands balled into fists, but she said nothing, storming off.

Despite your animosity, you excelled as Ladybug. Every akuma was defeated swiftly, every crisis averted. You were meticulous, calculating, and unyielding. Where Marinette would have hesitated, you acted decisively. 

Paris flourished under your protection, and even Chat Noir—still oblivious to your identity—admired your skill and determination. 

“You’re amazing, Ladybug,” Chat said one night after a battle. “I can’t imagine anyone else doing what you do.”

You smiled, leaning casually against a rooftop ledge. “Thanks, Chat. It’s nice to hear that.”

But deep down, you knew the truth. You hadn’t just stolen Marinette’s fate—you’d rewritten it entirely. And while guilt occasionally gnawed at you, the adoration of Paris drowned it out.

This was your destiny now, and you wouldn’t let anyone take it from you.

Marinette remained an ordinary girl, but something in her seemed to shift. She began to grow more suspicious of you, plagued by dreams where she was Ladybug.

The dreams started weeks later. Marinette woke up in a cold sweat, her heart pounding. In her dreams, she was Ladybug—fighting akumas, swinging through the city, standing beside Chat Noir.

“I am Ladybug..”

But when she woke up, reality hit her like a brick wall. That wasn’t her life. It was yours.

“No!! I am supposed to be Ladybug!!”

Confused and angry, she cornered you one day after class, eyes blazing with determination. “I know,” she said, her voice trembling with anger. “I know I was supposed to be Ladybug.”

You tilted your head, a cold smile playing on your lips. “Oh? And what makes you think that?”

“It feels real,” she insisted. “Like it’s a memory, not just a dream. No. I know it's real!! I am Ladybug!! You stole it from me! You're a thief Y/N!!”

You stepped closer, your voice dropping to a low, mocking tone. “Maybe I did. and Maybe I am. But let’s face it, Marinette—you’re no hero. You’re obsessive, and distracted by your crush on Adrien. Your stalker behavior is not something a heroine should possess. Paris deserves better, and that’s me. I already have the Miraculous, and doing a REALLY GREAT job at it, what makes you think you deserve it anymore??”

Her face flushed with anger, but she had no response. You walked away, triumphant. The Miraculous was no longer hers to claim, and you will make sure it stayed that way.

Paris sparkled under the moonlight as you stood on the Eiffel Tower, gazing over the city you had come to love—and rule as its heroine. With the weight of the Ladybug Miraculous and the Guardianship on your shoulders, you felt untouchable.

That was until a glowing portal split the sky open.

Out stepped Bunnix, her expression hard and accusing. She didn’t waste time with pleasantries. “We need to talk, Ladybug.”

You crossed your arms, feigning nonchalance. “Bunnix. To what do I owe the pleasure of a time traveler’s visit?”

Her eyes narrowed. “Cut the act. You know why I’m here.”

Chat Noir appeared at your side, his baton at the ready. “What’s going on, Bunnix? You seem… tense.”

Bunnix pointed at you. “She’s not supposed to be Ladybug.”

Chat Noir blinked, stepping protectively in front of you. “What are you talking about? She’s Ladybug. She’s saved Paris more times than we can count!”

“She’s not supposed to be here,” she said, her voice sharp as her glowing portal shimmered behind her. “Marinette Dupain-Cheng was supposed to be Ladybug. This version of reality shouldn’t exist! You’ve disrupted everything!”

You crossed your arms, unfazed. “Paris is safe, isn’t it? I’ve done my job. Heck I even did a good job saving this world”

Bunnix stepped closer, her tone accusatory. “You’ve changed it, I’ve seen it. Marinette was supposed to save Master Fu. She was supposed to receive the Miraculous. But you—you interfered. You stole her destiny!!”

Chat Noir stood protectively in front of you. “Hey, back off. Ladybug’s saved this city countless times. Who cares what was ‘supposed’ to happen and who can receive the Miraculous?!”

Bunnix glared at you both. “This isn’t just about this world. The timelines are unraveling because of her!”

You smirked, letting your mask of innocence drop. You gently push Chat noir aside, stepping closer to Bunnix.

“It doesn’t matter what was supposed to happen. I’m Ladybug now. I’m the Guardian, the center of this world. And if Chat Noir protecting me despite what I did isn’t proof enough that her fate as Ladybug now officially belongs to me… *smirk* Haven’t realized it yet? This world is now synchronizing with me, just like how a world favors the protagonist… Marinette wasn’t fit for this responsibility, and I made sure Paris got the hero it deserves. And unfortunately for her, this world agrees, whether you like it or not~” You whispered lowly to her

Bunnix clenched her fists. “You’ve broken the balance. Do you realize what you’ve done? The entire multiverse is at risk!”

You shrugged. “Then I’ll fix it. As the Guardian, I have authority over all the Miraculouses, including yours.”

Bunnix’s eyes widened in realization. “You wouldn’t—”

With a wave of your hand, you summoned the Bunny Miraculous. The portal behind Bunnix flickered and closed as her powers were stripped away. She staggered, powerless, and glared at you with fury.

“You can’t do this!” she shouted as she was returned to the timeline she came from.

“Oh, I can,” you said, your voice icy. “And I will.”

 You donned the Bunny Miraculous and rewrote reality, ensuring Marinette never became Ladybug in any timeline.

You stood tall, the portal you had summoned with Fluff's guidance shimmered with an ethereal glow, its swirling energies casting a kaleidoscope of colors across the rooftop. Beside you, Chat Noir’s green eyes were filled with uncertainty, a rare crack in his usually confident demeanor.

“Ladybug,” Chat Noir said softly, his voice almost pleading, “are you sure this is the right thing to do? I trust you, but... tampering with time feels... dangerous.”

You turned to him, a small, serene smile gracing your lips, the halo of your presence making him instinctively relax. The effect was subtle but undeniable—your words carried weight, as though the universe itself bent to support you. This power, this influence, wasn’t yours initially. You had stolen it, just like Marinette’s fate. But now, it was yours, and you wielded it masterfully.

“Chat Noir,” you began, your voice steady and filled with conviction, “this isn’t about what’s easy. It’s about what’s necessary.”

“But the timeline—changing things could destroy—”

“Destroy what, exactly?” you interrupted gently, your tone laced with practiced sincerity. “I’ve already disrupted it simply by being here. If I don’t act now, the balance will collapse entirely. I’ll vanish, Chat. We’ll vanish.”

He froze, his hands clenching tightly around his staff. “Vanish? What do you mean?”

Your expression softened, your red eyes glistening with what seemed like vulnerability. “I wasn’t meant to be here, remember? If the universe realizes I don’t belong, it’ll correct itself—and I’ll disappear, taking everything we’ve built with me. Paris will lose its Ladybug. You’ll lose me, Chat.”

The thought seemed to strike him deeply. His jaw tensed, his emerald gaze flickering with desperation. “I can’t let that happen. But why go to every timeline? Why stop... Marinette?”

You reached out, placing a gloved hand on his cheek. The gesture was intimate, calculated. “Because Marinette was never meant to have this power. She wasn’t strong enough. Look at what I’ve accomplished, Chat. Paris has never been safer. The people trust us, they trust me. Can you imagine what would’ve happened if someone weaker had been given this responsibility? She would’ve crumbled under the pressure, endangering everyone.”

Chat Noir looked away, guilt and hesitation written all over his face. “But... Marinette never seemed... bad.”

You tilted his chin back to face you, your voice a quiet murmur, dripping with affection and manipulation. “That’s because you don’t know what she would’ve done with this power. Trust me, Chat. I’m not doing this for myself—I’m doing it for Paris. For us.”

His resolve wavered, the pull of your halo overwhelming his doubts. The world revolved around you now, and it was only natural that he would follow your lead.

“I don’t want to lose you, Ladybug,” he finally admitted, his voice barely audible.

“You won’t,” you assured him, your fingers brushing against his. “But I need you to trust me. Together, we’ll ensure that this world—and every other—is safe and whole. I’ll fix everything. I promise.”

With a reluctant nod, Chat Noir stepped back, his staff lowering in submission. “I trust you, Milady. Always.”

The portal grew brighter, illuminating your face with a crimson glow as you stepped forward. Inwardly, you reveled in your triumph. This wasn’t just about fixing timelines or ensuring balance—it was about solidifying your place as the center of this world. The Ladybug. The hero. The one who mattered most.

Marinette would never again have the chance to be Ladybug, not in this timeline or any other. The universes would belong to you now. With one last glance at Chat Noir, you stepped through the portal, ready to rewrite reality itself.

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ADDITIONAL SCENARIO:

The sky above Paris was a canvas of pink and gold hues, a fitting backdrop for the triumphant end of an era. Hawkmoth had been defeated, his Miraculous reclaimed, and the balance of power restored. The Miracle Box was secured, its treasures now beyond the reach of those who would misuse them. For the first time in years, Paris was at peace, its people celebrating the heroes who had brought them here.

Standing atop the Eiffel Tower, you gazed over the city with Adrien by your side. The red and black of your Ladybug suit shimmered faintly in the setting sunlight, a symbol now synonymous with victory, hope, and resilience. Adrien, still in his Chat Noir guise but no longer bearing the same burdens, looked at you with admiration.

“You did it,” he said softly, a smile spreading across his face. “Ladybug, you saved everyone.”

The words should have brought unmitigated joy, and they did—partially. The world was safe, and Paris adored you. People cheered as your identity was revealed, their faith in their heroine unshaken. Even Adrien, your partner in battle and in life, stood unwaveringly by your side, his pride in you radiating like the sun.

Yet, beneath the surface, you couldn’t quite shake an unfamiliar tension. It wasn’t guilt, not exactly. It was a feeling you couldn’t name, a quiet unease that lingered despite the cheers and celebrations.

“Do you think it’s really over?” you asked, your voice barely louder than the wind.

Adrien’s hand found yours, squeezing gently. “It’s over, my Lady. You’ve done more than anyone could have ever asked for. Paris, no—the world owes you everything.” His green eyes met yours, filled with warmth and certainty. “I owe you everything.”

His words should have been enough, and in many ways, they were. You leaned against him, allowing the comfort of his presence to settle over you.

The streets below were alive with celebration. Parisians rejoiced, the weight of fear and uncertainty finally lifted. Even beyond Paris, the world had embraced you as their Ladybug, their symbol of hope. For the first time, everything felt aligned, as though the universe itself had recognized your place at its center.

And yet, in the quiet moments between Adrien’s reassurances and the city’s applause, that tension remained.

Elsewhere in Paris, Marinette sat on the balcony of her cozy apartment, a faint smile playing on her lips as she watched Luka strum his guitar. The melody was soft and soothing, wrapping around her like a warm embrace.

“I never thought I’d see the day,” she said, her voice wistful but not bitter.

Luka glanced up, his expression calm and understanding. “The city is safe now. That’s what matters.”

She nodded, her gaze drifting to the distant Eiffel Tower. She didn’t envy you—not entirely. She had carved out a life for herself, a happy one. The bakery was thriving, her designs were starting to gain recognition, and Luka’s steady presence brought her a sense of peace she hadn’t known she needed.

But deep down, there was an ache she couldn’t quite ignore. She had once dreamed of being Ladybug, of carrying the weight of the Miraculous and protecting Paris. That dream had been taken from her, rewritten in a way she couldn’t change. And while she didn’t begrudge your success—how could she? You had saved them all—there was a part of her that mourned what might have been.

“Do you think she’s happy?” Marinette asked suddenly, surprising even herself.

Luka’s fingers paused on the strings. “I think she did what she believed was right,” he said after a moment. “And I think she’s still figuring out what happiness looks like.”

Marinette nodded, her faint smile returning. It wasn’t the life she had imagined, but it was hers. And with Luka by her side, she could find contentment in that.

Back atop the Eiffel Tower, you stood with Adrien as the last rays of sunlight disappeared, casting the city in twilight. Paris was happy. The world was happy. And you were, too—or at least, you told yourself you were.

“Do you feel it?” Adrien asked, breaking the silence.

“Feel what?”

“The peace,” he said with a soft laugh. “It’s overwhelming. I’ve never seen Paris like this.”

You smiled, his words grounding you. “It’s everything I worked for.”

“And you deserve it,” he said firmly, pulling you into an embrace. “You deserve all of it.”

The weight of his belief in you was as comforting as it was daunting. For now, you let yourself believe it, let yourself bask in the happiness you had fought so hard to create.

Paris was safe, and you were its hero. The world had accepted you, embraced you, celebrated you. Yet, as you looked out over the city, the faint tension lingered—a quiet reminder that even in victory, some battles are never truly won.

THE END

[littlecrittereli]

Thinking about @martincrushcameback's apocalypse au....

I couldn't get the idea of this interaction out of my head so I had to draw it...

[hereghostslive]

for the love of cinema part 2

part 1.

--

The door swings open and Evan's there, like Tommy knew he would be but it's still a sight that levels something in him.

The dark, lonely days of the past weeks wither away the moment Evan says hi with a small smile on his face.

Tommy says hi back, and steps inside.

He's greeted by boxes. Piled high, almost toppling over. Tommy steadies one as they weave around them on the way to the living room. He doesn't remember a box being there, let alone a tower of them, the last time he was here but then again, he was a little preoccupied to notice much.

Tommy's noticing this time.

"Sorry for the mess," Evan says as they enter the living room. But Tommy's not really sure what he's talking about considering the lack of furniture or anything that would constitute a living space at all, really.

All that's there are two folding lawn chairs and a tv that's sitting on top of more boxes.

Tommy raises an eyebrow at Evan. "Redecorating?"

"Moving, actually," Evan says, like it's not a big deal to move twice in a matter of a couple of months. But before Tommy can respond, Evan moves on. "Can I get you something to drink?"

"Do you even have anything still in the fridge?"

Evan pauses to think about it and Tommy's about ready to drop all pretenses and ask what the hell is going on when Evan looks back at him.

"Water."

"Then I guess I'll have a water then."

"Great!" Evan starts back pedaling into the kitchen, but gestures at the lawn chairs as he goes. "You get first pick of where to sit."

"Gee, how generous.," Tommy responds as he takes a seat in the blue and gray chair, which looks exactly the same as the other blue and gray chair. He can hear Evan's laugh from the kitchen.

On the TV screen, The Banshees of Inisherin is pulled up on Amazon prime. Tommy frowns. For someone who's not well-versed in films, Evan sure chose a deep cut. Despite its nine Oscar nominations, Tommy's always found it to be one of the least accessible Oscar films in recent history, genre wise.

The TV is perched precariously on boxes labeled kitchen. He wonders if it's the same box he unpacked last time he was here. Tommy eyes Banshees on the TV, and then the boxes holding the tv up. Keeps his questions to himself as Evan returns with two bottles of water.

"Thanks."

"Cheers," Evan says. He takes a seat and presses play.

They don't talk much as the movie goes on. Tommy's seen this one a couple of times. He likes it well enough that he's fine with sitting back and settling in for a third watch. But his eyes keep drifting over to Evan, who seems locked in on the film more than Tommy's ever seen him before. Missing, too, is Evan's running commentary on all things from the location of the film to tangents about an actor's biography he came across during his research.

The only reaction Evan gives during the whole movie is a quiet "hmm" when Colm cuts his finger off in retaliation to an olive branch. The rest of the film, Evan's brow remains furrowed.

When the credits roll, Evan's still quiet. Tommy's had enough.

"Okay," Tommy says, spinning his chair around so that he faces Evan and not the TV. He taps Evan's leg and twirls his finger at Evan's chair.

Evan sighs, and turns his seat so he's facing Tommy.

"Hi, Evan."

"Hi, Tommy."

"Why'd you pick that movie?"

Evan shrugs. "Was going through a list of recent Oscar nominated movies and found it."

Tommy nods. "Bobby loved watching the Oscars."

Evan hesitates, glaring slightly at Tommy. "Yeah, I know."

They stare at each other for a moment. Evan's glare softens until it turns into the smallest smile Tommy's ever seen.

"Did you like it?" Tommy asks.

"Yeah," Evan says, but doesn't elaborate.

Another beat of silence.

"Evan," Tommy says quietly.

"Hmm," Evan says again.

Tommy huffs, and then rests his elbows on his knees so he's leaning a little closer.

"Are you going to tell me what's going on? Why are you moving again?"

Evan rolls his eyes, but relents. "Eddie's moving back. He's in Texas right now packing up the rest of Chris' stuff."

Tommy frowns.

"He," Evan begins again. "He gave me 72 hours to pack up my things."

"You were subletting, though."

"I know." Evan waves his hand around to indicate the rest of the house. "They need the space more than I do."

Now it's Tommy's turn to "hmm." "Are you and Eddie okay?"

Evan squints at him, and then rests his elbows on his knees, mirroring Tommy's position.

"I was under the impression you had an issue with me being friends with Eddie."

"I never had an issue with your friendship with Eddie."

"Uh huh," Evan says, but he's smirking. "Once upon a time, you were friends with Eddie. Before dating me, even."

Tommy nods. "I was."

The smirk drops from Evan's face and he sits back in his chair again, fiddling with the wrapper on his water bottle. Tommy leans back, too.

"We had a fight," Evan finally says. "About Bobby. Or, about me, I guess. It doesn't really matter, though. We made up, I think. But I don't know .."

Evan trails off, looking over at the TV where the credits for Banshees are still paused.

"You don't know .. ?" Tommy prompts.

And while he's still looking at the TV, Evan says "I guess I'm just not sure if i want to be friends with him anymore."

--

tbc

[fellow-fandom-fruitifier]

AU where Edwin knows he's gay from the start would be fire me thinks.

Imagine if he thinks he deserved Hell but still wants to escape and feel so wrong and selfish for it. So he never tells Charles what actually happened between 1916-1989, Charles only knows whatever happened was very bad no good. Edwin would be horribly, painfully aware that he was falling for Charles. But that's wrong, isn't it? Boys can't like boys.

So he tries so hard to ignore it, tamp it down. He can't let Charles know. If he knows then he'll know why he's avoiding the afterlife, that he deserves to go to Hell.

Charles knows Edwin is scared of Death and the afterlife, he assumes that something happened from 1916-1989 that convinced Edwin he was damned but there's just no damn way someone as good as Edwin deserves Hell. But, selfishly, he never tries to convince Edwin to go. To leave for his beautiful afterlife.

Then Port Townsend happens.

Crystal is no idiot, she can tell Edwin's jealous from the start. She can tell Charles thinks it's because they're best friends, she can tell it's because Edwin's in love. That doesn't stop her though, she deserves one good thing after everything, doesn't she?

(I think Cat King would go very similar to canon, but it's less of "I'm not gay" and more of "I know what I am but these urges aren't okay".)

Niko loves love, she can tell Edwin loves Charles. She can tell Edwin doesn't know it's okay. Niko helps him through it, becomes his confidant, the first person he confesses everything to. I think they would have a huge conversation that ends in them both crying -- Edwin bemoaning his unrequited love, Niko mourning for him -- and cuddled up watching Scooby-Doo. (The sprites get teary eyed too but still mock them, Niko calls them out and they deny it. "It's dusty as shit in this old ass glass!" "Yeah, we're getting fucking pick eye in here!" "When's the last time you even washed this shit-ass jar?")

It all comes to a head with the Night Nurse. We all know her spiel, "I'm taking Edwin back to Hell and Charles to get processed." But Charles doesn't know Edwin's been processed. Charles doesn't know Edwin's assigned to Hell.

Niko is empathetic, not forcing Edwin to explain but not once thinking he did anything to deserve it. Crystal is up in arms, demanding to know what he did to deserve Hell, demanding to know why he hid it from Charles. Charles is confused, conflicted. Edwin's his best mate! There's no way he deserves Hell! But... but why didn't he tell Charles? Edwin is overwhelmed and panicked and no, no, no! Charles was never supposed to know!

Now, listen. Niko isn't one for confrontation, she doesn't like to fight. But hearing Crystal rip into an unresponsive Edwin while Charles lingers unsure on the back has her heart breaking, has her head hurting. So she steps in, shouts at them to stop, that they'll talk tomorrow when they've cooled off. And drags Edwin off to her room for the night. She doesn't demand answers and he doesn't give them.

The next day, everyone's off. The tension is high and only building. Crystal keeps sending Edwin pointed comments and Edwin is actively ignoring her existence. Charles is conflicted, caught between Crystal and Edwin; taking both their sides without taking either. And Niko doesn't know how to soothe any of it, so she sticks close to Edwin.

Eventually the four are leaving the graveyard, Crystal and Charles arguing when she rounds on Edwin. "And you! Don't think I forgot about you!" Niko tries to step in and stop it like she did last time but Edwin's tired, he's had enough, he breaks. "I was sacrificed! I was sacrificed and spent seventy-three gruelling years fighting to escape! There, happy? Might we please move on now?"

He storms past them all and for the first time since this dispute started, Niko is angry. She tells Crystal that wasn't okay, that it was cruel. And takes off after Edwin, leaving Charles and Crystal standing uselessly.

"I didn't know..." Neither remember who said that.

[asparkinhereyes]

you can love a character and still admit when they’re wrong. i love talia al ghul but i can acknowledge her flaws (she has none) & i can hold her accountable for her wrongdoings (she’s never done anything wrong in her life) & call her out for her actions (which are always correct)!