#idk if its intentional or not but its fun to see them call back to 4u so much (<- mh4u enjoyer)

[gigginox]

the volcano area in wilds is just the volcano are from mh4u im realizing

[mariasont]

HI i have an idea and its making me really giddy

ok so reader is a translator for the bau and they’re always reading and translating texts or calls or anything like that. and the reader to spencer is basically like penelope to derek. they flirt all the time and all of those lovely things.. and it’s kinda just where they’re flirting on the phone and morgan teases reid about it and reid gets all flustered

IDK IF IT CAN WORK I JUST LOVE FLUSTERED SPENCER :(

anyway i’ll probably be in your inbox a bunch uhhh so call me h or something

-h

Warm Under the Collar - S.R

summary: spencer insists he is not flirting. morgan insists that spencer absolutely is. one of them is lying. pairings: spencer reid x translator!reader warnings: heavy flirting, pre-relationship mutual pining, verbal sparring as foreplay, workplace hr violations, use of angel wc: 0.6k

“Are you thinking about me, Dr. Reid? Because I’ve been thinking about you.”

Spencer exhales, tugging at the collar of his dress shirt as if loosening it might alleviate the sudden stranglehold of your words. He wasn’t sure if it was always this constricting or if it was conspiring against him at the mere sound of your voice.

He rolls his eyes, performative, really, because you can’t see him, and it’s easier to feign exasperation than admit the effect you have on him. His mouth, however, twitches in betrayal, flirting with a smile before he crushes it. 

The crime board he was supposed to be focusing on, filled with monochrome photos and reports, was now blurring into meaningless scribbles as his thoughts veer off-course, plummeting headfirst into you.

“I’m always thinking about you.”

The words come easily because they require no effort to be true. Always isn’t hyperbole, it’s a mathematical constant, an irrefutable fact.

He was thinking about you before he even called you, felt the shape of you in his mind like an afterimage burned onto his retinas. 

Thought about what color you were wearing, whether your hair was up or down. He wondered if you’d eaten, if you were drinking enough water, if you’d remembered to bring a jacket to the office because the temperature had dropped unexpectedly. 

“Always? Spencer, if you wanted me that bad, all you had to do was say so.”

He isn’t sure why he hesitates — why his brain takes a detour through all the ways he has said so, if not in words, then in the way his thoughts orbit you like a law of nature. 

“I feel like I did say so. Quite literally. But if you’d like me to be more explicit about it, I’m happy to oblige.”

Another pause. He wonders if you’re smiling.

“Mmm, well, I’m certainly not going to stop you.” You sigh, a little dramatic. “Go ahead, be explicit.”

Spencer physically winces at how hot his face gets. The very concept of explicit sits indecently in the pit of his stomach.

“Tempting.” He exhales, rubs a hand down his face, forcibly redirects. “But I do actually have a job to do. And, lucky for me, it just so happens to require your specific set of skills.” 

He leans against the crime board, half-smirking despite himself, because if nothing else, this is fun — the sharp back-and-forth, the way you press all the right buttons just to see what happens.

“I have a recording that needs translating. Think you can focus for long enough to help me, or do I need to, I don’t know, compliment your intelligence first to get you in a professional mindset?”

“Complimenting my intelligence to get what you want? Interesting. Manipulative, even.”

He groans, tilting his head toward the ceiling, appealing to some higher power for patience. He pinches the bridge of his nose. “I didn’t say I was going to —”

“Too late, you put the idea in my head, and now I expect it. Preferably in an eloquent, well-structured speech. Bonus points if you make it poetic.”

“Or,” he counters, “you could translate the recording first, and I’ll… circle back to stroking your ego at a later, more convenient time.”

A small pause. The kind that feels intentional, like you’re weighing your options.

“I guess that works,” you say. “Send it over, pretty boy.”

Spencer shakes his head, fingers moving on autopilot as he sends the file, because if he thinks too hard about the way you lilted that last pretty boy, he might die. “Alright, thanks. Be good, angel.”

He hangs up, still grinning like an idiot, still entirely too warm under the collar. He exhales, staring at the phone in his hand like it might have the decency to cool him off, maybe undo the physiological mess you’ve left him in.

“If I have to listen to one more of your phone calls with her, I’m sending y’all an invoice.”

Spencer freezes when he sees Morgan standing behind him.

He clears his throat, ignoring the flush he knew was climbing up his neck. “Flirting is an unsubstantiated claim.”

Morgan just stares at him. Stares. “You don’t even believe that.”

Spencer mutters something about professionalism because he’s nothing if not a walking contradiction.

💌 masterlist taglist has been disbanned! if you want to get updates about my writings follow and turn notifications on for my account strictly for reblogging my works! @mariasreblogs

[c4teyezz]

my fav jjk men with babies lol

༶•┈┈┈┈┈୨

my fav jjk men x afab!reader

i kept the baby gender neutral for yall in case, i dont want ppl coming to me like “nO hE wOulD dEfinEtly hAve a-“ shut.

note: on nanamis part it mentions reader being pregnant 🤰

characters: gojo saturo, geto suguru, sukuna ryomen, higuruma hiromi, nanami kento, kusakabe atsuya, toji fushiguro

༶•┈┈┈┈┈୨

Gojo Saturo

- spoils the baby 24/7 and the things the baby has are the best of the best, the price doesnt matter to him

- idk why but he likes taking a big whiff of the babies hair then going like “ahhhh!” after and then kissing their scalp

“look babe i just bought some new clothes for our little one” gojo said smiling up at you as you entered the room. gojo is sitting on the foam rug thing with the baby laying down on it

gojo held up the baby carefully while supporting their neck at the same time to show you their fit. “thats so cute!” you responded then sitting down with him, you look at the tags that gojo ripped out from the clothes “saturo what did i say abt rubbish- $200!? WE SHOULD BE USING THAT MONEY FOR THEIR FOOD”

Geto Suguru

- i feel like hes gonna be a fairly strict but not too strict of a father

- he loveeessss wrapping them up in his robes, hugging/carrying them around like that wherever he goes in the house

“ah-! let go of my hair!” suguru demanded but not doing anything to stop it, the baby just giggles at their fathers reaction not knowing that their lowkey hurting their dad bc obviously theyre just a baby…

you take a quick pic of the sight thats in front of you, giggling along with your baby

“damn this thing is strong!” he said

“dont call your kid a thing!”

Sukuna Ryomen

- he mostly watches you take care of “the brat” he calls them, but is willing to help as long as you give him clear instructions on what the hell hes supposed to do with “it”

- i can see him holding his kid upside down with their legs when theyre like 6 or something and sometimes he drops them on purpose before quickly and successfully catching them, he has no intentions of hurting them, hes mostly doing it to fuck with you. i mean he made the kid laugh so lol

“what the fuck its crying” he pointed out to you as you rock the baby gently in your arms

“yeah i can see that… and stop calling them ‘it’, theyre not some sort of rare space specimen”

Higuruma Hiromi

- even tho in the manga hes portrayed as the classic “no humor, cold, tired man in a suit” kind of guy, i honestly dont think hes just that, hes just like that in professional settings and when things are serious. i can see him make light jokes, like he did with itadori, so he’d definitely do the same with his baby

- he likes gently scratching the babys back, as he knows its relaxing i mean who doesnt like a good scratch on the back sometimes. he doesnt mind when the baby starts fiddling with his tie, but when the baby chews on if he definitely gets a bit grossed out

“bah!” hiromi jokingly surprised the baby which made the baby flinch and cry at their father, hiromi laughed at the baby’s raction “sorry” Hiromi gently apologised while smiling at them, then went back to scare them one more time by covering his face then quickly uncovering his face “boo!”

this time the baby laughed with their father and you recorded the fun moment

(this is also inspired by a reel i saw on instagram, it was so cute 😭)

Nanami Kento

- HANDS DOWN THE BEST FATHER DUH WTF??? do we even have to argue???? since the baby hes been cutting his alcohol drinking as he doesnt want the baby’s sensitive lungs to suffer from the smell. he also lovessssss skin to skin, when the baby popped out and it was his turn to hold the baby in his bare chest, he was over the moonnnnn

- ngl he would mostly take care of the baby more than you, his excuse is since you carried the baby for 9 months, so its his job to support and deal with the baby most of the time mwah mwah

you stare at him feeding your baby their bottle, whose also safely tucked in his loving arms

“kento can i feed them now?” you asked him

“go rest honey, you deserve it” he responded, kissing you on the forehead

“thats my baby youre hogging!”

Kusakabe atsuya

- omg he likes making the baby dance, the baby cant walk yet, so he’d hold them up and make them look like theyre dancing by making them look like their doing that default baby dance toddlers do or gently swing them side to side

- loves placing them on his chest as they sleep as he fiddles with their tiny hand. also he strictly calls them by their shorter version of their name or a random nickname that suits them

“mmph! stop trying to grab my lolly!” atsuya told the baby as it tried reaching for it, eventually the baby caught the stick of the lollipop and forced it out of their dads mouth and putting it into theirs

“hehe gross”

fushiguro toji

- he plays with them by making them pretend that theyre boxing with their hands

- naps naps napsssssss, he always puts them on his chest so that they can nap together on the couch. but sometimes when toji snores, he lets out a loud snore which scares the baby into waking up crying lmfaoooooooo

“hell nah”

“toji just wipe their ass already, im trying to show you how change their diaper”

“fucking hell…” toji muttered as he slowly lifts the baby by their legs

okay maybe hes not the best when it comes to helping sometimes, but at least hes willing to try

༶•┈┈┈┈┈୨

maayong gabii lahat!!! (good evening everyone!!!)

hehe i just wanna say thank you guys for the likes, reblogs, comments, and followers so far :))))

damo nga salamatttt (thank you so muchhhh)

[greenunoreversecard]

Kai,llyod, and Cole hc of them with a s/o that's kinda like a child of aphrodite from pjo? A bit more like piper though, they hate their gift and have to deal with cat callers alot?

I got cat called by way older men on the way home so this would be really comforting.

A/N:sorry it took so long to get this out for you. Ik my words can't offer much, but I'm sorry you get catcalled, it's not a fun feeling.

Sugar and spice-> Gn! Reader

individual headcanons of kai, cole and lloyd with a stunning S/O

Kai:

Kai, despite being extremely similar to his element in a multitude of ways, is an utter gentleman.

Hes always respectful of you, and makes sure to ask before he touches you in anyway, and is respectful with his eyes as well

With this said, as you guys grow close and start dating, he becomes uber protective of you.

He knows your very stunning.

And he knows others know that as well.

But alot of times, these people are creepy and go about saying: "hi, your outfit is cool" weirdly

And so he won't hesitate to punt a bitch into the sun

Most likely to throw a punch before a word leaves the creeps mouth.

And if your ever feeling gross and icky bc of the creeps?

Bros pulling out every stop.

Hes getting Zane to make a 10 course Michelin star meal, he's getting your comfort items, a hoodie (yours or his, doesn't matter) and he's becoming a 10/10 massager

Hes getting self care items, and a bath along with movies and cuddles with a side of shoulder to cry on

But if you get angry about the creeps??

He eggs you on. Agrees with you"YEAH BABE, FUCK THOSE ASSWIPES"

he will actively encourage any fist fights fights want to start with them

Hes your number 1 hype man, as well as comforter

Cole:

This man worships the ground you walk on. Just generally

Also drinks the respect tea (all of them do)

Hes always telling you how amazing you look, and even gives advice for anything you may need

Clothes? Food? Whatever hobby your working on?

He just has a eye for style of all categories

Hes generally also more down to earth, and realizes its much more than looks that makes a person

Which is why it takes him a bit longer to confess, as he wanted to get to know you better first (this man is demiromantic and demisexual)

Hes also fucking oblivious

So when people are more... sly about their intentions, like wording and such, he prolly won't notice

But the second he gets wind of what they are tryna pull

Hes super passive aggressive

And he slings a arm around your shoulder, or hides you behind him

Tries to talk it out first, and if they don't catch the hint they will catch his hands

Hes not... great with comfort tbh

His mom's dead and his dad's lowkey emotionally unavailable so he's not good at it

But he will rub your back when you cry, and buy takeout

He'll also prolly ask kai or Jay about how to comfort you better, bc both had either a sibling or parent.

He would ask Nya buts she's a younger sibling with a emotional brick wall of a brother so it's next to never she did some comforting.

Hes a little confused when it comes to comfort but Hes got spirit

Lloyd:

He has always been a little silly

So expect to bark at your aggressors

Idk why I just see him barking at your catcallers

Besides that

Hes always relied more on personality for if he likes someone, like cole

Not that kai doesn't care for personality he does, but looks plays a bigger factor for kai than they do cole and lloyd

Anyways

Off topic

Lloyd doesn't make a big deal how you look. Like doesn't comment on your outfits like cole.

Doesnt mean he doesn't think you don't look nice, bc he thinks you look lovely always

But moreso doesn't give a fuck

Wear a potato sack, or go naked, he doesn't give a fuck he just wants to get to the mall before it closes to he can check out the anime shops

He Def has a idrc additude, especially in dragon rising i feel, so I think if you want compliments you'd have to be outright about it, whereas the other two just kinda;"aww my partner is lovely🥰🥰"

And he's like;"babe, love you to bits and pieces but hurry the fucketh upeth I wanna get there before the fucking store closes"

And bc of that he's also the worst at comfort

Like he's always been told to suck it up so he kinda just is like... cool you done? And stands there awkwardly. He will get better with time, but please explain how to help better for future moments bc he was a Lil scared when you started crying.

Anyways back to the beginning about when mfs are being creepy

Barks at them

Fr barks

Bc it weird them out and he thinks it's funny

Or just tries to be as weird as possible

Like starts acting possessed

Crawls backwards on all fours like the lady from the ring or smth

If generally weirdness doesn't work he fights them

Though he tries to scare them off first

[simphornies]

Yeah im down on my knees for a part two of that teasing reader x vox, your writing gave me brainrot and its the only thing that's gonna be on my mind all night

A/N: Happy Valentine's lovely readers. Short because my brain was going insane with the imagery

Word Count: 1.3k (1,328) Content: suggestive content, eating out, mirror sex, implied creampie(s) idk I think that should be it

Tease [ Vox x Reader ] part 2 NSFW

MINORS DNI

Ever since pushing Vox to the edge with your teasing and earning a long night of fun with him. You two decided to become an official couple. Even as a couple, you found him constantly glitching whenever you messed with him. Everyday was no different besides the fact that at night, you two share the bed together. And depending on how much teasing you’ve done, you two could keep going all night.

Today was different. Vox had this urge to take you before the night came. You took quick notice of him not glitching as much at your attempts and instead tried to catch you in his arms. You decided to have a little fun with it this time.

Vox sat in his security room, paying close attention to how his new release is doing with revenue. You made your way down to him and cheerfully hugged him from behind. “Hey, Vox~” You purred.

“I was wondering how long it’d take for you to come in here.” He smiles, immediately trying to pull you onto his lap.

You dodged his hand and waved a finger in his face. “Ah ah. I want to play a game.” You smile at him mischievously, “I promise it’ll be worth your time!”

He leans back, pouting at your rejection of getting pulled on his lap. He crossed his arms, “And what is this game?” He asks.

“For the rest of the day, until night time, you aren’t allowed to touch me one bit.” You giggled at his appalled reaction, “But! I’m allowed to touch you. You just have to hold back no matter what.”

“That’s unfair!” He protested, “How am I supposed to keep my hands off of you, babe? You’re irresistible!”

“It’ll be worth it, trust me~” You grin. “It starts now!” You exclaim before inching closer to him. His hands were kept at his side as you rubbed his chest with a seductive look in your eye. Your hands trail down further and further and just before you touch his erection, you pull away. “See you later, Vox~”

“Wh—Y/N! That was such a tease!” He yelled, getting a laugh in response from you.

The rest of the day was torture for him. You did things on purpose to rile him up. In one instance, you dropped the stack of notebooks you were holding and you bent down in front of him, giving him a peek of the underwear you were wearing from underneath your skirt. You pretended to stumble back and grinded on the tent in his pants before quickly collecting everything you had dropped to file them away.

His eye twitched, systems glitched and his breath was uneven. He wanted to touch you so bad and he felt unable to hold back. He watched as you worked, humming a song while you put away files. He sighs and distracts himself on his phone.

After a long day of working and bothering Vox, he was more than ready to hold you again. He was practically counting down the minutes until night time.

You opened the door to his office, on the phone with one of the Vees. His eyes darted to you, watching you intently. You were distracted and didn’t realize how intense his gaze was on you.

20 seconds until sundown.

Your pace was unbearably slow, taking your time almost. “Velvette, I told you I’m already doing the show tomorrow! Wh—Yes. I’m going for the next one too.” You explained, groaning at her persistence. She hung up and left you in the group call with Valentino. 

10 seconds until sundown.

You leaned up against the side of Vox’s table, facing away from desperately trying to get Valentino off the call now. “I’m not filming a porno, Val. No…You’re gonna have to ask Vox about that—Wh–NO. Valentino. Goodbye.”

5.

You groaned and hung up on him. You gathered yourself and turned to look at Vox. “Hey Voxy~”

4.

Your initial smile turned into a confusion as soon as you saw a countdown on the side of his screen.

3.

“Vox, what’s that?” You bent down and leaned towards him, squinting at it.

2.

His hands remained on the chair and he was quiet as ever. You tapped his screen lightly.

1.

His hands flew up and grabbed you. Picking you up and putting you on his couch. His door locked at his command. He didn’t hesitate to touch every part of your body.

“V-Vox!” You breathed out, his wandering hands touching you everywhere but where you wanted him to. You squirmed, almost trying to get away from him to catch your breath.

He let out a low growl, pinning you in place. “I’ve been waiting all day, baby.” His hands wandered to the inside of your thighs but didn’t go any further up. He glanced at you with pleading eyes, almost begging for consent.

The sight of a strong overlord like him begging made you giggle, “Go ahead, Vox. You did the game.” You winked at him, “Go all out.”

You didn’t have to tell him twice. He practically ripped your underwear off as he stuck his tongue inside of you making you throw your head back. He didn’t slow down when you grabbed the edges of his screen while you rode his tongue. He pulled away as soon as he felt your walls tighten around him.

He stripped himself quickly, practically ripping his pants off. He flipped you on your stomach, lining himself up at your entrance. He slipped inside of you with one swift movement, your arousal making it a smooth entrance. Your breath hitched when you felt him fill you up. You didn’t hesitate to move your hips to get him going, desperate for more. His hands dug into your hips, his claws poking your skin. He fucked you into the couch with hunger, not giving you a moment to breathe. You were such a moaning mess under him you hoped his office was soundproof. Your nails dug into the fabric of his couch. You felt a knot getting tighter and tighter inside of you. “Vox-” You gasped out.

His hand grabbed your face, making you look into the mirror on the wall he had parallel to the couch. “I want to watch your pretty face when you cum on me.” He grinned with pride. His lust filled eyes pushed you to the edge, the growl in his voice ultimately snapped that knot you’ve been feeling. Your body convulsed in pleasure. You felt yourself melt into his hold, unable to keep yourself up.

He turned your head so you could face him, “You’re going to have to hold up all night, baby.” You smiled and looked back at him with a challenging look, “Get your fill in, Vox.”

Your words unlocked a stronger sense of pride within him, you felt him twitch inside of you. “You don’t have to tell me twice.”

The night was long and he definitely got his fill. You lost count of how many times you came on him but Vox counted and recorded each one. All you remember is his face as soon as he finally reached his limit, almost short-circuiting inside of you. He fell on the little space you had next to you. Before you and him could pass out to sleep, he had pulled you on his chest placing his coat over you two. You fell asleep to the feeling of him playing with your hair, too tired to say anything.

.

Vox woke up from a call and he answered it without looking.

“Vox. I’m glad you found your true fucking love but can you take your shit somewhere soundproof next time?” Velvette screamed into the phone before hanging up.

He looked down at your sleeping body, nestled up on his chest and the memories of last night hit him like a truck.

His phone rang again, this time Valentino called. “Will you both please consider that porno?”

[yrenesbrainrotss]

heyy!!

idk who all you write for in the ENA fandom, but if you write for froggy do you think you could make general (sfw) romantic hcs with him + a gender neutral reader? theres been ONE other froggy fic on here and i cant confidently write him </3

of course, if you dont write for him or just dont feel up to writing this, thats completely okay!! im just glad ENA writers are back again

A/N: hyaaa!! I managed to write something for our Froggy guy! He’s such a fun character and i think he’s a great comic relief but i wrote him a bit more serious and affectionate towards reader since i feel like he doesn’t want the reader to think that he doesn’t take them seriously.

Enjoyyyy💘

•summary: general romantic hcs with froggy

•warnings: none!

•pronouns: not specified

your relationship with froggy was … peculiar to say the least but still sweet . When he’s not barking orders at ENA, Froggy spends his time with you,sharing his fragments of his new job offer which he assigned to his trusted friend ,ENA, or spending time together at the newest upside down diner.

Whenever you guys spend some alone time you often ramble about your newest interest,trinkets or clothing that might be popular. Froggy always does his best in acquiring any items that you mention or things that remind him of you.

♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱

“You know, recently i saw that bat-winged shoes have become more popular these days. I really need to start saving up for them..” Froggy listens intently, with a hand supporting his chin and occasionally asking you about this new interest of yours.He makes a mental note to ask around about where could he find these unique shoes.

….

“ENA it seems your new task is to through the horse door this time…I have the details of the job right here.” Froggy hands an envelope with the instructions and places ENA needs to search,he then remembers the gift he wanted to surprise you with:“Ah..if you don’t mind.. could you pick these up on the way back?”

♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱

This goes with jewelry as well,gifting you a rare eyeball necklace or siren teeth earrings.Whenever you try on something he bought you he always hypes you up and tells you how beautiful you look.He loves trailing his fingertips over your curves when you wear that new dress he got you,saying things like “You look gorgeous in this..” or “You should wear this more often”

I just know that Froggy is a certified cat lover.He once saw a one eyed black kitty running around and cooed at its sugary gaze. He immediately decided he wanted to keep it.When you came home later that day you were surprised to see a small creature purring in your lover’s arms,nuzzling against the soft plush.You agreed to keep it and raise it as your own little baby. Froggy unironically calls the small cat “Alpha” thinking it’s a really cool name.

After a stressful day at work,and after giving orders and instructions all day, Friggy often finds himself frustrated and fueled with anger, saying how his clear indications are too hard to follow by his “incompetent errand runners”. On these days its likely that he will pick on you for no apparent reason or make snarky remarks at the smallest misplaced thing or a chair that wasn’t placed “in the correct way”. In an intense fight out of nowhere, you suddenly grab his red tie hanged around his neck , pull him towards you with a strong grip and kiss him right then and there to shut him up. It seems to be working since Froggy’s muffled yells have ceased and his soft plushy fisted hands now embraced your lower back. He mutters a small apology against you soft lips and peppers your entire face with kisses.

The weather is really strange in the dreamy land where you both now resided. Sometimes the heat is too much to bear and the next day the snow envelopes the whole place. Snowy days are spent under soft crocheted blankets with snacks scattered throughout the room and on the nightstand,watching a movie. Froggy’s cushion arm splayed accros the bed, serving as a velvet pillow for your increasingly sleepy self.Your cheek smushed against his chest,engulfed by his imposing but soft form,eyes trying their best to stay open, and smooth fingers combing your silky hair. Quiet sounds of the TV can be heard and the pitter patter of the snow against the window,marking a cozy day with your significant other.

You sometimes remember moments from your old life,surrounded by friends and family.

♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱ ♱

You sit on the edge of the broken bridge,with blood reaching your knees.You swing your legs in the pool of blood,observing the shapes forming and your own reflection looking right back at you. You don’t look like your old self.

A figure plops down next to you,swinging their own legs over the bridge.You recognize it as Froggy,who nudges your shoulder with his own. “What’s wrong tadpole? You look a little more down than usual.” You don’t say anything,you don’t even need to, he already knows what you mind is plagued with. He envelopes you in a side hug,kissing your jaw and nuzzling into your neck,enjoying your warm skin and rhythmic pulse. “You don’t need to talk right now if you don’t want to…just know you can always talk to me,I’m always with you.”

[magnoliarabbit]

Protectiveness and Possessiveness in Invincible

I think Invincible did a lot to establish a core issue of Mark’s character in Season 3 — particularly how his protective instincts, while they come from pure intentions and are seen as a good masculine trait to have, can manifest in unhealthy ways.

At their core, these tendencies stem from a place of care. After what Nolan did Mark is left as the protector of his family. He steps up by offering to drop out of college to help raise Oliver, he support Debbie through her grief, he keeps them safe from people like Angstrom Levy.

Yet, when it comes to Eve, his protectiveness takes a turn, blurring a thin line from protectiveness to possessiveness.

From the beginning, Mark’s relationship with Eve brings out his irrational side. During the Flaxan invasion, he reacts aggressively and drops everything to save her. In the Season 1 finale, he insists on following her to "keep her safe," and later, he refuses to leave her hospital room—even when Cecil explicitly tells him Eve wouldn’t want him there.

His instinct isn’t to fight alongside her but to shield her from danger entirely, whether it’s against the alternate Invincible variants or Conquest. The irony is that Mark needs Eve’s help just as much as she needs his. Without her and Oliver’s intervention, he wouldn’t have survived Conquest. But he still has those expectations of himself to be the protector simply because he’s supposed to be earth strongest hero (another fun discussion to have another time about men being expected to be strong no matter what!)

The real issue is that his protectiveness morphs into entitlement over Eve. Him staying at the hospital or following to keep her safe? Eve doesn’t welcome that level of coddling. This obsession with her and that possessiveness over her is also shown within how the alternate Marks treat Eve.

The Season 2 Episode 1 Variant Invincible feels so entitled to Eve that he paralyzes her to make her stay with him forever. He does this all while thinking he's protecting her; if he paralyzes her, then she won't fight back and he and Nolan won't need to hurt her.

Another Mark variant is searching for women who embody Eve to fill a void inside him; again, obsession and entitlement. (Comic readers know what I mean)

Even Omni-Mark harbors an unexplained hatred toward her (likely over rejection, because let’s be honest—nobody wants that guy. Or because she was a thorn in his side while conquering earth. Idk if anything was ever revealed about him).

The Mark variants show extremes of how much his flaws could corrupt him.

Our Mark isn’t innocent either. During the hospital visit Cecil’s warns him that Eve would disapprove of him putting her first. He’s overstepping just like in Season 1.

Symbolically, it makes sense for him to be so fixated on shielding her: Eve is coded as unapologetically feminine, while the Viltrumites embody toxic masculinity at its worst. Mark wants to defend her from that brutality, especially after seeing how easily Viltrumite strength can overpower her. But Eve has been a hero longer than Mark and understands the job’s risks and prioritizes saving others over her own safety. She’s feminine, that’s why she cares about helping others outside of fighting. That’s why she doesn’t want to be protected. By putting her above the mission, Mark disregards her agency—something she’s called him out for before in Season 1.

FYI, the show amplifies these flaws compared to the comics. Cecil doesn’t mention Eve would be upset with Mark over the hospital thing, so the show highlights Eve’s frustration over being coddled so much more than the comics.

Season 3 and those Mark being protective scenes in Season 1 finale felt like a set up to me. I really do believe we’re going to be tackling Mark’s possessiveness issue soon. We do discuss his obsessions over fighting to keep his people safe to an unhealthy degree in the comics but Season 3 feels like it’s kicking it up a notch and planting the seeds for something similar happening much earlier.

Mark’s heart is in the right place, but he needs to learn to respect Eve’s autonomy and that he needs her just as much as she needs him. We see what letting that unhealthy possessiveness can do to him. And again, I do think this is foreshadowing for Eve being very unhappy with Mark soon when she finds out about the hospital thing. I hope she will be, because they need to bounce back from the mid writing on Eve in Season 3.

[changbinsboobs]

Who in Skz goes out clubbing?

Hello guys im back🌝

Aaannnnddd the answers will probably shock you. Def shocked me 👁️👄👁️

Chan - yes occasionally on the regular. Like if the phase is tight i see him going weekly or something, but always with a group of friends and always for fun, social interactions etc. Not to get drunk, pick up women and be a lil rascal.

Lee Know - no he prefers his solitude and peace and quite. Also the night is dark for a reason he says, when its dark you should be home sleeping. Instead of doing other stuff.

Changbin - feels socially pressured. If he goes he goes against his will. I feel like he may be in circles with very social people who like s bit wilder things than him, and even tho that's not so much his thing he wants to make his friends happy and spend time with them so he goes every once in a while but i don't see him staying long or being active, u probably wouldn't even notice he's there. Its really not his thing.

Hyunjin - he goes but rarely and its intentional. Like he doesn't go there just to let some steam of or just because someone invited him. He has to have a reason to go and a mission to fulfill. I see him going more to social networking partys. (The other guys probably too, like i don't see idols like them going to regular clubs😂). But for hyunjin i see when he goes out partying its something like an after party or a private party involving certain important people etc. He goes to things like this to put himself out there, make himself be seen, win opportunities, get acquainted with people that could be helpful to him etc. It's more like a job to him than leisure.

Han - Im seeing two polar opposites, struggled, something addiction. So if i have to string everything that im picking together i would say he either hates it and u CAN'T force him under any circumstances to go - or he suddenly loves it and get so addicted to it you can't keep him out if the "club". But that energy's really heavy and not nice at all. Reminds me of someone with a gambling problem - that type of addictive.

Felix - isn't up to his values, he has better things to do than that. I see him having went in the past while he was still "undeveloped" (his words not mine if y'all crazy felix fans come at me again im blocking ur asses IMMEDIATELY🫵🏻😤) bubnoe that he's ~mature~ stuff like thats not up to his standard. Seriously tho idk when that shift happened exactly but in the time frame of 6 months (since around i started my acc and have been reading on him) his energy has changed sooooo soooo much. I think he's going through a phase of discovering himself and building his own sense of self. As someone who can definitely relate and would say is already on the other side, i think his transformation/ rebirth hasn't really finished. Let me explain - in the past his energy felt really really strong but u couldn't see/dense it probably it was very mellow, unused, unseen by himself even, it was very very weird seeing someone with that much power not having it utilized. It felt unsettling (now i think i understand why but thats a topic for another time). He didn't really have a sense of self, was very easily swayed, influenced, and didn't really know much about himself or the world, he just felt like a little newborn and went along with the flow not really having a steering wheel i his hands he just sat on other peoples boats and floated on it and let himself be taken by wherever others brought him. This however is not the case anymore - he has his own boat, and now thinks that having a boat means the work is done and he has found his sense of self and knows who he is etc. But thats just the first step, the actual work/journey begins now. He has to learn how his boat works, learn to navigate tides, to know his surroundings to interact with other boaters (idk what they're called). U get where im going at? And oftentimes with people that have been denied their power, freedom and sense of self, and finally come to a point where they reclaim those they switch to a polar opposite of what they were before because that past self is what others were, not u, so the brain makes u go the opposite way to find urself. I see felix being in THAT stage. His energy once very fluid & accepting, suddenly feels very rigid and convinced of certain beliefs and values, he doesn't seem to have the ground to be so convinced in yk. Because that switch is so sudden. So yeah in short i believe he's on a journey of discovering himself and now he's experiencing the stage of the "other side". Eventually he'll come to a crash out, live the consequences from the breakdown and within the healing period he'll actually find his true sense of self and begin from then nurturing that seed and "growing himself" more and more as time goes. Thats my prediction.

Seungmin - loves them 👁️👄👁️ it's really his thing i think he's a hidden charmer. Like ... an actual actual charmer a casanova, a don juan. Those a mainly directed to seducing women tho, i don't see him having that reputation, he's just overall charming and can attract lots of people, feels good in that energy can entertain and just overall he's made for parties and clubbing apparently. It gives him energy & confidence.

I.N - loves clubbing too and does it quite often. Like i see him whenever he can he goes out could be as often as every night or every other night. Definitely a couple times a week. There's not much else to pick up on here, idk why he öikes it so much or what he does when he goes out but yeah he does it often.

[crookedkryptonitebeliever]

Yandere Coworker (Part6)

Tw: a little sickness, Cyprus patting you on the butt non consensually super short chapter, tw afab reader

like idk guys its so hard for me to brainrot for Cyprus i don't like him and i rarely get asks that would leave long analyses and theories for Yves, so he's not a fun guy to work with

but anyways here u go a more softer side (i guess)

masterlists, part 1, part 7

He grinned. "I knew you'd come around."

Cyprus straightened his posture. He kept your ID away and left the scene.

The day went by smoothly after that.

__

Two minutes before lunch, you made a beeline to the toilets. You locked yourself in a stall and planned to stay there until that dreadful hour is up. Cyprus obviously can't enter the women's restroom, he would risk his job.

Actually, you hope he did. HR has grounds to fire him, or at least reprimand that man.

Half an hour in, you received a text from Cyprus.

"Wtf is taking you so long"

"you ok?"

You replied, deciding to use a fake stomachache as an excuse.

You thought he gave up and left you alone for now. You nervously kept glancing at the clock in your phone, it ticks by slowly as you worry about what he would do.

As you breathe slowly and jump every time someone opens the door to use the bathroom, you fidgeted with the hem of your blouse nervously. Time ticks by and before you know it, lunch is over for you.

You let out a sigh of relief. Finally, one hour without that fucking creep. You exit your bathroom stall, wash your hands, dry them, and get out of the toilet.

You only had one foot out of the women's restroom before that deep vibrating voice of his reached your ears and made you jolt.

"You okay, babygirl?"

You whisked your head to the side to see him leaning against the wall, with his arms crossed and a look of genuine concern on his handsome face.

You stammered, yes. You would like to get back to work now.

He didn't stop you from scurrying away to your seat. Not like he could do anything now, his lunch is over too. So he has to get back to work or he faces the risk of getting called to HR.

You immersed yourself in work, tapping away and tuning out all surrounding noises. To you, minutes or hours felt the same. You don't know how long you've been working since you got out of the restroom, but you're sure it's been a while. The gears in your head are churning non-stop to try and figure out a plan to get away from Cyprus. Or get him fired so you can work in peace.

"Princess."

You craned your neck up only to be kissed on the forehead. Cyprus set something down on your desk. You turned your focus to the object he placed in front of you.

"For your stomach." It's a steaming hot cup of green tea. He must have prepared it earlier in the kitchen. You picked it up and muttered a thanks to him.

"I don't think you ate anything today. Here." He opened a packet of bland crackers, which you recognized was from the vending machine. Cyprus placed it near you.

You said you appreciate it, but he needs to get back to work before Jane yells at him. He scoffed at the mention of her name.

"She can't do crap to us. If she's giving you a hard time, tell me." He ruffled your hair as he walked back to his cubicle.

__

You're now genuinely feeling sick in the stomach as Cyprus carries your suitcase for you to his car. Your coworkers said bye to the two of you as they got into their respective vehicles too, but you knew behind those friendly grins was the intent to gossip.

You went to the passenger's side, not realizing that Cyprus was noticing how you were looking a little green in the face.

You buckled your belt up and so did he after shutting the door and igniting the engine.

You flinched when he brought a hand to your face, but he did or said nothing except to touch your cheek with the back of his palm. It then slid down to your neck, and back up to your forehead. You were too tired and frazzled to ask him what he was doing. All you did was to stay still.

He let out a sigh before retracting his digits and placing them firmly on the steering wheel.

Cyprus drove in silence, periodically looking at the rearview and side mirror to check the position of his car relative to the road. You're surprised that he wasn't in a chatty mood today, not interested in teasing you or extracting new information about yourself. He seemed grumpy, but you don't know why, was it because you didn't join him for lunch earlier?

You decided to seal your lips in the end though, savoring this rare instance of silence, and decided to scroll through your phone instead, feeding your brain with social media junk food until it's too sick to take anymore.

Cyprus would spare some quick glances at you periodically, there was a disapproving look on his face when he realized that you have no interest in looking out of the window at all. Just on your phone screen.

He actually... pities you. He thinks you're trapped, you've been in this routine for so long because you were spineless enough to let Jane work you to the bones. The only thing that's remotely fun for you to do, that's within your time and financial budget is to surf the net. Now, you have Cyprus to keep your boss in check, you have him to pay for your exciting adventures together, and to manage your time for you, yet you're still falling into the same rut.

It takes time, as habits are hard to break. Especially bad ones such as your obsessive scrolling and his smoking. It's fine, he is willing to work with you. Cyprus thinks overcoming obstacles like these will strengthen the bond between you and him as a romantic couple.

"We're here." You were snapped out of your trance by his voice. Cyprus killed the engine and unbuckled his seatbelt. You did so too and left the car, but this doesn't seem like his house. No, not at all, he brought you to a block with various businesses still operating past office hours.

You asked where he had brought you to. Cyprus ignored you and grabbed you by the arm, dragging you with him into a shop. The smell of antiseptic stung your nose upon entry and the blindingly bright lights gave away that he brought you to a clinic.

You told him that you're fine. But that made him hush you before talking to the receptionist on your behalf.

Once he's done registering for you, he turns around to look at you.

"Sit, we're gonna need to wait for a while." He leads you to the waiting chairs by the small of your back.

You said that you were fine, it was just a small stomach ache. He rolled his eyes at you and grunted, he crossed his arms and leaned back into his chair. Cyprus loosened his necktie earlier and unbuttoned the collars, giving everyone a glimpse of his sculpted chest.

Seeing that nothing was getting to him, you pulled out your phone. You failed to notice how he side-eyed you for doing so.

"What do you want for dinner, princess?" He asked, frowning when you're still glued to your phone.

You said anything is fine. Which slightly infuriated him.

You exclaimed an expression of surprise when he snatched it away from your hands. He dangled the device next to his face as he adjusted his glasses.

"Christ, I really need to tape this to my head for you to look at me." He narrowed his eyes at you.

You asked if you could have it back. But all he did was switch it off and shove it into his pocket.

"You're addicted to this crap." He spoke, in a condescending tone and a face that suggests that you did something to offend him.

You said that you can say the same for him and smoking. But you're not controlling him or trying to get him to stop smoking his life away.

"Maybe you should. Because, Hell, I'm not letting you scroll your life away." A teasing smirk reached his face.

You demanded his packet of cigarettes, and to your surprise, he handed it to you without a complaint. You swiped it away and hid it in your pockets too, he didn't say a word or pull a face at you. He simply crossed his arms and resumed resting in his original position.

You were upset, that you have nothing to pacify you at the moment. So you decided to be petty and proceed to break all his cigarettes, reducing them into mere leaves of tobacco and shreds of rolling paper.

He watched you wide-eyed, his mouth opened and shut, as if he was about to say something but decided against it in the end. Cyprus is having a hard time controlling his breathing and the twitches in his eyelids. You just shredded $50 worth of cigarettes.

But... it was fair. He helps you break this addiction towards this bright brick, and you break his addiction to lung cancer. Though, it doesn't hurt any less that a good pack has gone to waste.

You got up and chucked it into the trashcan nearby, marching off to sit far away from Cyprus.

He simply stood up and sat next to you. So you moved. Then he moved. You moved, he moved.

This sequence went on until your name was called by the nurse.

He gently slapped your bum as you walked to the consultation room. You whipped back and flipped him off. Cyprus simply shrugged and grinned at you.

He watched you disappear past the door frame. The nurse closed the door behind you a bit after that.

Cyprus rose from his seat and took long strides to the bin. He looked down uneasily at the desecrated carcinogenic sticks.

He sighed, taking his glasses off and massaging the bridge of his nose.

It's going to be difficult. But he's willing to work with you.

[danieyells]

hai again :3 idk if youve already done him but can you do tohmas voicelines? he is sooo interesting i, once again, want to study him

Tohma is one of the I think two characters I haven't been asked to do yet!! I think he wouldn't appreciate you studying him either, anon, but I think he'd be willing to let you studying him becuase he didn't think you could actually succeed. . .but if you did, he'd have other uses for you lol

ANYWAY VOICELINES his are. Pretty expected in their nature lol he's like ritsu in that you will never see this man sweat.

May 27th 2025 edit to add in the Year 2 birthday lines!

Hello: (the first time the game is opened after that character is set as home screen NPC. Only happens once per day, unless the character is switched out and back.)

"Well, hello there—I've been expecting you. May I ask for your assistance with something?"

You've Got Mail: (whenever there's something in the inbox, usually Arena rewards)

"Seems you have some mail. There could be some helpful information in there."

Default: (requires no affinity, has no time constraints)

"What do you mean? I lend a sympathetic ear to those in need—that's all."

"Honestly. This academy has far more than its fair share of loose cannons, wouldn't you agree?"

"I'm no more than a servant. Frostheim is ruled by a king, you see."

"I hope you'll join us for a party some time."

"No need to be nervous. I've nothing but the noblest of intentions."

normal people don't need to say things like this. you see why i feel like it's too obvious that he's shady! he comes out the gate with this shit!

Affinity 1: (between 5am and 11am)

"An orderly life and a well-managed schedule are the key to keeping one's self fit and healthy."

Affinity 2: (between 11am and 4pm)

"How delightful... It seems our king's peaceful slumber has yet to be disturbed."

look at how annoyed he looks lmao He'd love to slam Jin's door open and yell WAKE THE FUCK UP BITCH

Affinity 3: (between 4pm and 8pm)

"Is that everything? I'm afraid there are several matters I must attend to."

Affinity 4: (between 8pm and 5am)

"Please excuse me. There's a small matter I must attend to. No, it's nothing serious. Of course I'm being honest—whatever do you mean?"

yeah your affinity is too low for me to think you're honest. LET US IN.

Affinity 5: (between 8pm and 5am)

"Look at you, you're trembling. You must have had quite a frightening encounter. You poor thing."

considering what time this can happen maybe some anomaly was lurking in the darkness and scared you?

Affinity 6: (between 4pm and 8pm)

"Providing this level of assistance goes without saying. Only once you can do so without instruction can you call yourself qualified."

Affinity 7: (between 11am and 4pm)

"So this is where you've been idling your time away. Our captain is waiting for you."

stop trying to hide you are a servant and your king demands your services.

Affinity 8: (between 4pm and 8pm)

"Honestly. If he'd just take action, everything would be resolved instantaneously."

(In case there's any doubt, "he" is specifically referring to Jin--in Japanese he says "Dorm Leader". I wonder if this relates to the spy situation or the Institute. . .or something else entirely--)

Affinity 9: (between 8pm and 5am)

"This conversation never happened. Understand?"

Either he needs someone to believe he wasn't here or he told you something ~Secret~

Affinity 10: (between 10pm and midnight)

"An appropriate amount of sleep is essential to maintaining your physical and mental health, you know."

he's very worried about your health. . .as has been pointed out, perhaps because his own isn't stable. . . .

Affinity 11: (between 5am and 11am)

"Honestly. The second years have been making quite the racket this morning."

KAITO AND LUCA ARE HAVING FUN LET THEM HAVE FUN

Affinity 12: (between 11am and 4pm)

"I tend to eat lightly at lunch time. Would you like some? Don't worry—I assure you, it's not poisoned."

WHO SAYS THAT IF IT ISN'T POISONED. IT'S YOUR FOOD WE KNOW YOU WEREN'T POISONING YOURSELF. . .PROBABLY. . .COULD BE MICRODOSING POISON TO YOURSELF FOR IMMUNITY REASONS.

Affinity 13: (between 4pm and 8pm)

"Seems you've become involved in a difficult situation. How do I know? I just happened to overhear, that's all."

WHICH DIFFICULT SITUATION. THERE ARE SEVERAL. IT FEELS LIKE THERE ARE MORE EVERY DAY.

Affinity 14: (between 5am and 11am)

"It appears we're in for another full day."

Affinity 15: (between 5am and 11am)

"Good morning. Would you like to start the day with a cup of tea?"

Affinity 16: (between 11am and 4pm)

"How about a game of chess to aid with digestion? I'm a patient teacher. I can show you how to win—against opponents other than myself, of course."

how would that help with. . .don't you usually have to exercise for. . .well I'm glad he's a patient teacher even if he won't teach you to beat him lol good strategy, make you a powerful ally.

Affinity 17: (between 10pm and midnight)

"Good health is the greatest treasure. You shouldn't push yourself too hard. Good night—I'll finish up here."

He wants you to take care of yourself. . .so he'll do the hard work when it's time for you to rest. He wouldn't want something bad to happen to you because you were unwell.

Affinity 18: (between 8pm and 5am)

"I always achieve my goals—using any means necessary. That goes without saying, don't you think?"

why restrict your means if you truly wish to fulfill your goal? Others use you for their means, so why not do the same yourself? If your ends are truly good perhaps the means aught not to matter so much.

Affinity 19: (between 10pm and midnight)

"Please don't overexert yourself. There are many people here who need you."

that may sound like a reason to overexert yourself, but if you overdo it you won't be able to help anybody. You have to help yourself if you want to help anybody else. There's no shame in that.

Affinity 20: (between 5am and 11am)

"Take care not to overdo it today. You may insist you're fine—perhaps you even believe it—but I can tell at a glance that you're fatigued."

he's worried about you. Maybe it doesn't sound that way, but he wants to make sure you're well. He can tell you're wearing down before you can. He has an eye for others, that's all. Also maybe it's just me but he mentions health and wellness so much I can't help but wonder if he's had some sort of health problem in the past, or maybe Jin or someone else he knows and cares for. Also, hilarious that speaks to highly of caring for one's health when he smokes.

Affinity 21: (between 11am and 4pm)

"Inexperience is not a crime. The important thing is choosing not to remain ignorant when you don't know something."

knowledge is in fact power

Affinity 22: (between 4pm and 8pm)

"Errant and Fuji lack polish, but they've got potential. They're sincere, and that's what counts."

he really looks at them and says "those're my boys. my loud annoying sons."

Affinity 23: (between 8pm and 5am)

"Welcome to high society. That outfit suits you well. With that poise, you'll have no trouble fitting in here."

he dressed you up and brought you to a party because he likes and trusts you and wants to be seen with you. . .get used to the high life, he'd like to keep you in it as long as possible.

Affinity 24: (between 10pm and midnight)

"Forgetting about everything I've got to do and be, just for a night every once in a while... It's not a bad feeling."

no titles, no images, no fronts, and no lies. no manipulation. no doing somebody else's job--no doing any job. Just. . .time for himself. And, presumably, someone he loves very much. I think he's earned that kind of break. Does this sound like you're about to fuck to anybody else--

Affinity 25(max): (no time constraints)

"In times of difficulty, I hope you'll turn to those around you for help. I will be there to keep you safe."

Don't be like him and take so much upon yourself. . .rely on others. Ask for help! Find your people. Support each other. Don't try and go at it alone. It's okay to be united with your community. He is one of your people too, of course. Rely on him and he will keep you from harm. He's quite sweet, isn't he?

Spring: (March-May) (between 5am and 11am)

"That was quite the yawn. No need to apologize. Who wouldn't want to take a nap in this pleasant spring weather?"

(between 11am and 4pm)

"I once heard a poem that went, "In spring, one sleeps a sleep that knows no dawn." I'm sorry to inform you dawn must come eventually, Captain."

translation: 'WAKE THE FUCK UP JIN. IT'S THE MIDDLE OF THE DAY BITCH.'

(between 4pm and 8pm)

"With every advent of spring comes a wealth of gleaming new foliage and a pleasant breeze. I still find it moving each year."

reminds me of that if you ask Tohma what his hobbies are in his character story chat he says he likes being out in nature and taking walks. . .which also reminds me that Alan likes camping. I bet they used to go camping together all the time.

(between 8pm and 5am)

"The blossoms of spring fall so quickly. Though beautiful, there is something almost brutal in their brevity."

Summer: (June-August) (between 5am and 11am)

"Ha ha. My apologies. Your face is so flushed I couldn't help myself."

'lol you're so sweaty you look like a wet rat'

(between 11am and 4pm)

"Sweltering days like this make me sincerely grateful to be in Frostheim."

i wonder how hot it was in the vagastrom garage in the summer. probably sucked ass in there. and smelt like big sweaty dudes.

(between 4pm and 8pm)

"Would you care to enjoy the evening cool here with me?"

(between 8pm and 5am)

"If the heat becomes to much for you, please feel free to come visit us in Frostheim any time."

inviting them to frostheim late at night? how scandalous. . . .

Autumn: (September-November) (between 5am and 11am)

"Pleasant days like this make me want to go on a trip somewhere far away."

i mean if anyone could get away with it it's definitely you. darkwick trusts you enough.

(between 11am and 4pm)

"Tea enjoyed while appreciating the colors of the fall leaves has a unique charm."

(between 4pm and 8pm)

"The early dusks in the fall can take one by surprise. Be sure to stay alert when walking in the dark."

(between 8pm and 5am)

"There is nothing better than a book to while away the long fall nights. My eyes are rather tired though... Perhaps some exercise will be a good change of pace."

Winter: (December-February) (between 5am and 11am)

"I thought Frostheim had gotten me used to cold weather, but I suppose this is what they mean when they say "chilled to the bone.""

my god he's admitting weakness. someone call the papers.

(between 11am and 4pm)

"Even the cold weather doesn't seem to deter the second years from gallivanting about... Rather charming, isn't it? In the way barnyard animals are."

my noisy sons who play in the snow like puppies

(between 4pm and 8pm)

"I'll take my leave earlier this evening. The nights are getting colder, after all. And there's a small matter I'd like to look into."

(between 8pm and 5am)

"Haven't you had your fill of winter scenery after frequenting Frostheim? Ha ha. You truly are a strange one."

His birthday (Year 1): (May 31st)

"Thank you for putting together such a wonderful celebration for me. Oh? You've even gotten me a gift..."

His birthday (Year 2): (May 31st)

"Did you need something? Oh… Is this a gift for me? You honor me with your kindness."

Last year you threw him a party and this year you got him a gift privately and it's still just an honor. . .so formal haha

Your birthday (Year 1):

"Happy birthday. Perhaps it was a little presumptuous of me, but I've prepared a gift for you... Come now. There's no need to be so formal."

Your birthday (Year 2):

"A moment, if you don't mind? This is for you. … No need to be so nervous. It's merely a birthday gift."

known him a whole year and you're still skeptical when he hands you something lol something something it's not poisoned!

New Years: (January 1st)

"Happy New Year, {PC}. I expect you will help bring Frostheim to even greater heights this year."

why? are they being promoted to fuckin captain of frostheim or something now? tf?

Valentine's Day: (February 14th)

"Oh my, is this for me? How kind of you. I very much look forward to finding out what's inside."

White Day: (March 14th)

"I ordered you these sweets from a famous confectionery in Asakusa. Hopefully they suit your tastes."

April Fool's Day: (April 1st)

"What I wouldn't give to knock that bastard Jin's head off... Oh come now, what's that face? I'm joking, of course."

Halloween: (October 31st)

"Trick or treat. Oh? So you prefer tricks... Interesting."

what do you think he's dressed as? Oh no you didn't have any treats for him. . .be worried about what's coming i guess

Christmas: (December 25th)

"Merry Christmas. We'll be holding a party in Frostheim later. Would you care to join us?"

Idle: (about 20 seconds without interacting with the game) (below 13 affinity)

"Ignoring me, are you? You've certainly got guts."

(13 affinity and above)

"If something is concerning you, perhaps I could lend an ear. There may be something I can do to help."

Absent: (logging in for the first time in 2 or more days?)

"I've no interest in hearing your excuses. I suppose I'll need to be stricter with you going forward—I hope you've come prepared."

much like Jin. . .he believes you'll need to be retrained. Bad servant. Time to be reminded of your place.

IT FEELS LIKE HIS ARE VERY LOW KEY. He's secretive about his interests and so very busy as Jin's servant, it feels like they don't share much about him. . .hopefully we'll get more study opportunities, anon. I wonder if this makes his intentions seem more or less clear/honest for some? It could really go either way lol. WHAT REALLY GETS ME IS THE "just one night to not have to think about who i am and what i have to do is nice" ONE TBH. . .like he really works so hard trying to play every side for the outcome he wants. he works so hard keeping frostheim in order. no real hints to what his goals are, just that he acknowledges that he will do whatever it takes to reach them. Makes you wonder, but we probably won't learn anything for a long while haha

[trevors-bussy]

Michael calling Trevor a 'good boy' headcanon >:) (aka im just yapping about past trikey ideas)

imagine this: Trev and Mikey just met and obvs become bffs

they spend their days in a motel room, occasionally moving to another place to run away from cops

Michael would tease about how clingy Trevor is and joke that he sometimes acts like a lost puppy

at first Trev isn't quite fond of being compared to a pup but he doesnt mind it much since it's coming from Michael

at some point Mikey starts calling him a 'good boy' as a joke whenever Trev does something for him. It can be as simple as passing Michael a beer while they were watching TV or when he's too lazy to get up from bed

T usually bites back with a joke when M calls him that, tho it sparks something inside of Trevor. Not only does he already have a crush on M, but it's the first time in his life that he feels safe and comfortable with someone that genuinely enjoys to be with him

it's a very foreign feeling for Trevor (and Michael too) to be able to act like themselves and put their guards down

they both like to poke fun at each other so they both know that their jokes dont have any ill intent behind them. and even tho he knows that Mike is calling him a 'good boy' for the funnies, it still makes his heart flutter every time he hears it.

Michael doesn't think much about it until he realizes that Trev reacts differently at his teasing. Trev always wore his feelings at his sleeves so M quickly catches on what Trevor might be feeling for him

so Mike stops calling him a 'good boy' and any jokes that would sound a bit too gay for a while 'cuz now it makes him feel confused (stupid closeted M smh)

obvs Trevor notices it and asks about it but Mike is all like 'its nothing, dont worry about it'

some time passes (im too lazy to write) and theyve been starting to get a bit more intimate (Michael insists it's a way to relieve themselves with 'no strings attached' which kinda upsets Trevor but wtv)

while theyre doing it, Mikey finds an opportunity and calls Trev 'good boy' again and sees the effect it has on T

hearing it again makes Trev go feral. i bet Michael could just call him that and T would come untouched har har

omg my mind just thought about what if Trevor responds to Michael with constant 'i love you's (despite Michael's 'no string attached' rule) right after being called a good boy 'cuz hes so blinded by the affection he's receiving at that moment :'(((

(((side note but i just love how 95% of the time i read trikey fics, it seems like every one agrees that Trevor would be the kind to say 'i love you' multiple times to Mikey when theyre in bed :')

it's also a genius way to make Michael feel even more confused about his feelings and sexuality har har har)))

would be funny to see how theyd react if either of them brings it up 20+ years later (during the events of gta 5)

uhh ye idk what else to say about it

so thats about it

see ya

[daftmooncretin]

rip to rian johnson but star wars sequels would be way better if ben solo was just kinda cowardly and han solo coded so he defected from the jedi and went to be a fun swashbuckling anarchist space cowboy instead

and finn and poe have to find him and try to convince him to come back to the rebellion but hes afraid who he is and what he could become

also instead of luke trying to kill his nephew for NO REASON (so insanely out of character it boils my blood) he just realises after ben dips thats hes not cut out for teaching. and is living on a mandalorian colony as rebellion liason/ambassador with chewie and sometimes lando i guess (din djarin is there) he aids the rebellion (because of course he would fuck that plotline) but he wont stay on the rebel base because he doesnt like all the chosen one clout and mandalorians are very chill and mind their own business

han and leia are still together and play active parts in the rebellion because fuck that plotline too although they do disagree about the ben situation (leia is annoyed and han is understanding) poe and ben childhood friends and for what.

in this au, rey is raised in the empire and is a sith lord but she has doubts and isnt as abjectly disgusting as kylo ren because of course not. (appears slightly too interested in the rebellion when poe is captured and maybe??? possibly lets finn and poe escape but thats up for debate.) rey gets more evil over course of movies before turning to light for plot drama and a satisfying zuko arc.

force awakens timeline

prophecy that a new jedi will rise and take down the dark side. rey and sith lord (dk who but fuck snoke im writing him out) assume it is the missing ben solo (its finn and rey tho fr) and are intent on finding him. movie opens on rey being evil probably and capturing poe. also finn as a character actully needs no real changes hes great. and then next scene space pirate ben solo doing his thing (but without identity revealed so we dont know who he is yet he may go by kylo because funny)

instead of luke poe has a lead on missing almost-jedi before he dipped ben solo and is searching for him on leias orders.(rebellion also believe the prophecy is about him. but nuh uh) torture scene and escape scene doesnt need to change but show reys nuances and how lost she is.

in the interest of narrative poe and finn still crash on tatooine but finn manages to pull poe out of the crash. (finn still gets the jacket at some point because i say so) poe is too injured to fly so they seek out help and and meet ben solo who saves them from pirates or something idk. (but neither know who the other is)

finn and poe convince ben solo to be their pilot still thinking hes a random smuggler named kylo. they get along very well, especially finn and ben. rey by this point is tracking their whereabouts

they end up on that lightsaber planet and ben gets the weird darth vader nightmare and freaks out, (hes afraid of being evil or something idk) poe is getting suspicious now also finn feels the force and takes up the lightsaber. rey comes and finn trys to hold her off. finn get hurt and drops lightsaber. ben is forced to take it up and his identity is revealed as rebel reeforcements led by han and leia arrive and they see him fighting. rey and ben have a weird charged moment (yes i guess i am still making reylo a thing but its reyben now and its woke so shh) and in a dramatic desperate effort he manages to knock her lightsaber away with the force. poe crawls into a plane at somepoint and blows up reys ship. the rebels destroy the stormtroopers but rey captures finn and escapes in a stolen ship.

ben has a oh-shit-i-said-id-never-use-the-force-again related existential crisis which makes him freak out and leaves. a distraught finn-less poe calls him a coward. poe picks up the discarded lightsaber and the jackettm and sadly packs them up. leia tells him about the starkiller and poe volunteers to go on the starkiller and save finn. han and leia have a sweet moment and han decides to go with poe on the suicide mission, chewie goes too.(chewie arrived at somepoint i guess)

mid hostage situation finn blocks reys force attempt and shes shook up. he sees something in her (finn is a beautiful sweetheart) and he trys to appeal to her. she force chokes him and books it out of there. but it is clear she fears him a little. he escapes with mind tricks and runs into han poe and chewie on the deck. finnpoe moment fr. poe gives him his jacket back in order to get the keep it it looks good on you line.

meanwhile ben is back on his ship(i guess its the falcon?) and he thinks about finn and his mom and luke or something.. a dream maybe?? idk something emotional and motivational for his arc. and he goes to a box under the floor in his ship and pulls out a green lightsaber. he turns the ship around.

on the ship poe finn han and chewie are planting the bombs and escaping when they get stopped by stormtroopers ordered by rey. poe is about to be shot by a big droid thing when it is cut in half by ben wow big reveal hes here oooo ah. rey is shot in the shoulder by chewie and angrily orders more stormtroopers. they cant take them all. han sacrifices himself by blowing up the bridge. he tells finn and poe to find luke in the mandolorian colony ben is distraught him and han have an emotional goodbye he tells him to tell leia he’s sorry and that he loves him and he proud of him then he makes chewy get ben out of there and he blows himself up. leia senses it v sad rip man but he had to die to intensify plot drama

rey chases them onto the ice planet and another weird charged moment. mind link established??? this time ben is too angry and grieving though so its not a good match and she wounds him real bad all over hes v scarred now. poe shoots at rey and throws lightsaber at finn. he gets ben onto the ship and finn and rey have the big force awakens show down. finn uses the force v powerful all that jazz the good guys get away. on the ship finn mentions how he felt a connection with rey to poe and claims he sees good in her

movie ends with meeting luke on mandolore. ben is very traumatised wont really speak to finn or poe and avoiding luke. finn returns lukes lightsaber and rey has doubts movie over. movies ends with ominous rey ben mind link

final notes (on first movie and overarching rewrite plans)

finn

finn is the protagonist of this movie so it would be much more character heavy on him them the original. more in depth on his stormtrooper trauma, how he always chooses the people he loves over the cause and his reluctance to join the rebellion. his friendship with poe and the han/leia parallel’s especially. relationships with han and ben important for his character exposition and he plays a key role in supporting both rey and bens character progression. possesses the strong sense of mercy and kindness at the heart of the star wars franchise.

rey

rey is raised in the first empire and does not know anything different. when she meets finn who was able to rebel and escape from the same system she is trapped in she becomes plagued by doubts and projects all of her hatred and resentment onto finn to compensate, but it is clear she fears him. to escape from her doubts she fixates on finding and capturing ben solo imagining him to be a frightening and terrible adversary. however when she meets him they see eachothers minds, and she sees how plagued by doubt and fear he is, how he runs from everything and he sees her too. they connect and develop a strange mutual fascination/understanding. this is put askew by finns appearance at the end of the movie in defence of ben. reys fear of finn increases when she sees the true extent of his power. she fears and hates equally finns strength of character and easy goodness and by extension hates ben for his alliance with finn. she blames finn for “taking” ben from her.

ben solo

kylo ren is a disgusting blight on the star wars names so ben solo is being completely reclaimed by me into a different character because i fucking hate that stupid pretentious eboy. instead ben solo is an incredibly han solo coded character with a heart of gold and deep love and loyalty to his friends and family. his main weakness as a character in this rewrite is his fear and lack of self belief. ben is terrified of being a jedi and of his own power. he fears his own nature and was so afraid he would become his grandfather that he ran from the jedi altogether. ben solo is a runner that wont face his problems, he runs from the jedi and from his parents to avoid failing or becoming something terrible. finn and ben recognise the need to run in eachother (although important distinction finn runs because he doesn’t want to fight for a cause. and ben runs because hes afraid he will be the reason the cause fails) and ultimately encourage eachother to break the cycle and stand their ground (well finn motivated ben in this movie, finns not fixed yet.) Bens arc in these movies is about learning to live with his own nature and fighting for what he believes in despite his fear. also dealing with mommy issues (ben is kind of jealous of poe and leias relationship the son she wanted or something blah blah blah etc) and being a malewife to his murder girlfriend. his job is kind of to support and fight with finn and later rey and help them save the world

finnpoe (will be a gay couple)

their friendship will be front and centre in these movies because they represent duty vs personal loyalty. poe puts the cause above all else and values his own life and personal relationships little. finn on the other hand is disillusioned with establishment cause of stormtrooper trauma and wants to protect himself and others from it. poe is the first person that finn truly bonds with and loves. he puts poe above everything, including being a jedi and the rebellion. this leads to a lot of fighting and discord between finn and poe as finn doesn’t understand how important the rebellion is to poe and poe doesnt get why finn is trying to protect him from it. ultimately though poe teaches finn faith and belief and finn teaches poe to accept love and value himself. (also many hanleia parallels) the two of them are the harbingers of a new age. poe as future leader of the new republic and finn as the jedi messiah or whatever. in terms of romance, im thinking slowburn. baity first movie, kiss at the end of the second and established relationship by the halfway mark of the third.

also when rey eventually joins the light in the beginning she refuses to talk to ben (cause of romantic drama i havent thought of yet but centres around some sort or betrayal in the second movie) or finn (because hes her narrative foil and slow burn best friend forever) so her first friend is poe and she kind of follows him around in her first few months before she eventually bonds with finn 4eva. her poe shadowing has lots of cute friend moments where they fly together and he tries to talk her down about finn and the ben drama but also more importantly it foreshadows her leadership ability and tactical mind as she gives him advice and aids him with the rebellion behind the scenes (also leads to leia taking rey under her wing probably because poe is her surrogate son and mirror) which will eventually lead to her and poe leading the republic together because in my mind rey is a jedi but actively a member of republic government because ben can’t do politics and finn won’t but shes great at it so she’d be a perfect jedi liason and vice president to poe. meanwhile finn and ben lead the jedi. finn as a knight travelling across the galaxy and ben as a teacher. (luke is happy in retirement rn on mandalore but leia is still probably an advisor in the republic because retirement is definitely not for her) and everyone is happy the end. force ghost han solo is clapping.

[fairytaehl]

lgief rewatch ep. 6

yayyyyyy the gomoku episode <3 AH this is so precious to me. esther yu and ding yuxi seemed like they had so much fun doing this, and i had so much fun watching it over and over again!

if youd like to discuss lgief, feel free to send me asks, chats, or reply to any of these posts.

ep 1 / ep 2 / ep 3 / ep 4 pre-festival / ep 4 festival / ep 5, 5 part 2 / ep 6 / ep 7 / ep 8 / ep 9 / ep 10

so we start the ep with all the workers leaving bc theyre not an official's residence anymore, and oh man, i love the side of miaomiao we get to see because of it.

her bargaining nature… her knowledge of how to get the best prices, what are cheaper but similar alternatives, when the best time to go is, etc. miaomiao, how often do you do this in your world? you are so funny for this. queen. im obsessed with her.

and i love her little pathetic fake stepping in place to make it seem like she was leaving, LOL. as well as how cute she is hopping on her two feet while her dad is amazed. like yaaaaah i did thattttt i know my stuff.

screencap for her pretty hair design. i wonder if her maids did it for her one last time before leaving.

ziqi listening to this convo goes down had me wondering why, esp with his solemn-type expression. are you just spying on her? did u have intentions on talking to her, but overheard all this so you stayed and listened? like i actually wonder if he kinda wanted to follow up on his 0% feelings from the festival? idk! but hearing this caused a fork in the road and he chose a different approach to her from what he couldve been planning.

miaomiao blaming herself for her dads death is so so sad. it must be a bit difficult at this moment to believe that the man next to her is some version of her father while thinking of her real one, and it is a little jarring to hear them both talk about him as some Other Person, instead of "no, i wouldnt have blamed you, dear," but the feeling is there all the same. at the end of the day, that is like her dad, but shes definitely trying to detach a little bit because its Not, and goes as far as calling him "old lin" to create a boundary for herself, i imagine. otherwise, she would absolutely get too attached, and thats why she also warns him if she suddenly goes back to being mean she hopes he isnt upset.

playing with his chain, mysteriously in the darkness...

"youre so powerful" the sarcasm is hilarioussssss. she thinks bc she reached 0% shes got some leeway. its true, she does.

i like how she uses something similar to his lines from the map burning on him. it was not lost on me.

whys he lowkey look unhappy when he asks if hes not welcome. like "i thought you were being nice to me. wdym we cant randomly hang out late in the evening?"

and miaomiao realizes how wonderful of an opportunity this is to get some positivity from him! she really treats him like a quest for so long... and he goes "uh huh, right. im welcome now, i see."

miaomiao im sorry his bitch ass eavesdropped and isnt even apologetic about it. he didnt seem so sinister when he was listening, but now hes cornering her! and she is so surprised at it too! you can see how shes processing what hes saying and what that means. oh shes so offended, even though in the imperial capital shes so for it. i love that scene there lol.

from the moment i first watched this moment, i knew ziqi had some connection to the real world. i was like, why does he care so much about this? he cares a lot. this is kinda sus. and after the Go game they definitely make it more obvious.

i wonder whats going on in his head when he asks this tho? is he thinking that she is some type of demon who can time/universe travel or something? because hes linking that to her being weird/sneaky, and i cant imagine how else he would make it make sense in his head given the universe.

fully reblogged version linked here

[sky-swimmer]

helloo it's me grassthehopper!! unfortunately i cant figure out how to change my secondary blog into primary blog 😔 but i believe you could still follow me there @grassthehopper also im so glad you really liked apple cider by beabadoobee for your devzel fic so i've come with more songs that i relate to devzel in general hehe 🙂‍↕️ - harvey by her's: a lot of ppl already made the connection but istg this is literally their song!! its super catchy and cute, and it goes well with hazel's name too - no.1 party anthem by artic monkeys: specifically the part "sunglasses indoors" which is so dev lmao but also the yearning vibe of this song fits so well with them!! - bags by clairo: its the hesistance of waiting for the other, longing stolen glances, along with heavy bags to deal with, ...yeah - forwards beckon rebound by adrianne lenker: basically the course of their friendship that pulls and pushes, every improvement of their bond has its setbacks but with a promise of an intimate connection. at least, to my interpretation anyway😗 - bonus song that reminds of my baby hazel: teenage girl by cherry glazerr this is already pretty long so i'll stop there haha oops.. i apologize for the particularly long ask 😅

HELLO GRASSTHEHOPPER!!! Thank you so much for finding me here! And I'm so SO sorry about the delayed reply. I had such a busy Christmas season, and then I wanted to listen to what you suggested so I could give my thoughts on it!

First of all, yes I'm still reeling about apple cider, and I LOVED EVERYTHING ELSE I JUST LISTENED TO. TIME FOR OVER ANALYSIS UNDER THE CUT

1. Harvey by hers: Yeah, so when the chorus came on???

"Harvey, Nobody knows what I see, Nobody knows I'm waiting, Waiting for you to call"

MY SOUL LEVITATED OUT OF MY BODY. Immaculate choice!!! Sobbing and screaming. The yearning AKAKSKSKSJDJHHDHDJ THE YEARNING

2. No.1 Party Anthem: the yearning again but also just the vibes... AgH. The hype title of the song and the juxtaposition of the actual melody and lyrics... It's like... feeding me. Idk the intent of the song, but to me it almost gives an underlying sense of hopelessness / dread about your feelings, but forcing yourself to go through the motions because you know you can't outrun it. Which for Hazel and Dev??? 😭🤧 I can't even go there. Realizing you have feelings for your friend is not always great, especially if you're scared of losing what you have, or you think the other person won't like you back.

3. Bags by clairo: AIGHT- love it. As you mentioned, yearning, but also agshshd there's so much uncertainty in the song and waiting for the other person to make a move, waiting for the other person to figure out you like them so they can decide what to do about it iejfjrjfjrjfjrbgfh I AM GOBBLING IT UP. Devzel coded ofc!! The awkward pining stage yesyes

4. Forwards beckon rebound: oKAY I am living for your words on it. I love the push and pull of their friendship... And yes omg the lyrics to me also lean into eventually opening yourself up to someone and allowing yourself to trust them, even if it's scary or difficult I just- no explanation needed as to why that's so cute for Devzel *sobs* you've wounded me greatly. I love it.

5. Teenage girl by cherry glazerr: *eats this delicious morsel.* This is such a fun and goofy song I LOVE it for Hazel!!! Yes yes. Immaculate choices all of themm

And also NEVER apologize for a long ask. Each word adds 10 years to my lifespan. I love that you took the time to share all this with me 😭😭😭 especially after I said I was in a drought of Devzel / ANW hc songs!!! And I loved all your choices!! I had never heard any of them but they're all going into my playlist freak yes 😤😤💪💪💪💪 THANK YOU THIS WAS LITERALLY SUCH A WONDERFUL MESSAGE TO RECEIVE IN MY INBOX

Omw to follow you rn!!!! 🚨🚨 More fop content on my feed!!!!

[goldensunset]

Fun fact about N’s character theme: it’s based on prime numbers! I don’t know enough about music theory to tell you exactly how, but it’s neat that the composer took his mathematical affinity into account -moon

ya!!!! that’s what i was talking about w the arpeggios. that’s a detail i think is great fs….

don’t get me wrong it wouldn’t surprise me at all if n’s battle theme was some masterpiece of musical composition on a purely technical level that i don’t get because i don’t understand complex math and music theory terms. i tried researching the meanings behind his name and just exploded. i mean look at this. i do not go there

like i’m sure they were absolutely cooking something intentional. it’s all so nerdy. i trust they made their choices for a reason. but i still disagree with them

i guess what i was getting at is that like extra flavor details in the music like this are great but what’s underneath really matters too… the main melody plays the biggest role in storytelling here. in a critical plot moment you should be able to listen to a track and just Feel a certain emotion and get an impression of what the character is like or what the situation is like. is it happy, sad, fearful, determined? unsettling? does it actually distinctly lack a melody, and what does that say about it? like without having to study details like this behind the scenes.. you shouldn’t need a phd the song should just hit you y’know

like it doesn’t exist within a vacuum it exists in the context of ‘i’m fighting this guy who by now i know means well and has been lied to and is in denial at this point, in the hopes that he backs down from trying to change the world for the worse and admits he was wrong, so that we can please be friends’ i understand n is an unusual sort of person and that formulas and calculations are part of his character quirks. but also at his core he’s not a machine or something he’s a human being with a lot of feelings and beliefs. that’s like. a really important part of the narrative… ik he suppresses his thoughts a lot but like

ig i just would’ve expected more of that passion in him to come out during his decisive battle. you would not have to change that much about it to satisfy my conditions. like his standard battle theme works fine for him when he’s battling you just to like test and study you in a calculating sort of sense but in the endgame you’d expect it to be more dramatic. which is why i love the pokemas version where it gets fused with his castle theme it sounds absolutely perfect like that’s the n theme we needed

the like. main part of n’s battle theme like the melody part… it is full of dissonant intervals. again who knows there might be a numerical thing to it that i’m unaware of but y’know like those are the sounds that make you distinctly uncomfortable. that composers use to signify fear or evil. i once woke up in a feverish mini-panic bc that song made its way into my dreams. (and that actually made me appreciate it more not less. lol. if you strike fear into my heart that’s a compliment). and i know he is an antagonist and you should be at least a little bit afraid of him but see like that’s the kinda thing they did for like. ghetsis. the pure evil dude of all time whose name is actually music-related too. the man is so evil he got named after his own evil music. ok king

basically n my man he deserves more to his battle music than sounding scary and cold

buuuut i guess you could say that’s what his encounter theme is for. ‘prisoner to a formula’ has a distinct melody (although that song is creepy lol). and then in b2w2 it gets remixed into a major key and it’s now called ‘n’s theme’ so like yay for once mr natural harmonia has a memorable theme that sounds like he gets sunlight and fresh air and that’s definitively considered to be his character theme!! yay!!!!!

idk. maybe this is all supposed to represent how he suppresses everything he feels and withdraws into his shell and his mechanical obsessive habits while he’s battling. bc his heart is distinctively not in it it’s not true to who he is as a character and also he’s in denial and trying to talk a big scary game the whole time. like the music represents his outer self not his inner self which is imo not ideal for a decisive character battle. and especially not given that his battle theme is at its core basically the same in the sequel even after he’s undergone character growth they bothered to make a remix but still didn’t add heart to it. as if they still wanted your impression of him to be offputting. but who knows!

[mojo-bro-tho]

Blood Sugar… Ch. 3

~ Fun fact, the title for this chapter was actually inspired partially by Rhapsody In Blue, specifically the New York Philharmonic performance with Leonard Bernstein. So there’s a lot of tone shifting in this chapter. Also! Permission to get a little fucky with the canon? Just a little? It’s an AU, I’m trying to have fun. This is another instance where I simply must credit another fic for giving me an idea for this. I don’t know if they were the first person to have this take on Manfred but I adored it so I’ll link it, it’s called Amaretto Sour by Farore on AO3. I care for it deeply!~

Tags: @my-queen-rhaenyra-targaryen (let me know if you’d like to be added or removed)

Word count: 7.5k (idk what happened, don’t ask)

Content warnings for this chapter: Suggestive Language, unwanted flirtation

AO3 link here!

Previous!

Rhapsody In Blue-Raspberry

Silence had surrounded the car for quite some time. The only traces of existence Emmrich could pick up on was the hum of the engine, the suppressed force of wind gliding over the body’s painted black exterior, and Manfred, who was intently tapping the toes and heels of his shoes together in a repeated pattern. Emmrich’s nerves had been shot the whole day, the false bravado he had felt this morning was gone before lunch. And the unknown of what truly awaited him once his son was dropped off made his stomach lurch. Luckily for him, Manfred was far more amused by whatever game he had seamlessly found himself in. That was the case, until a few moments later where the digitally smooth voice rose at his behest.

“You aren’t playing music.” The tablet said with a lack of tone. Emmrich looked up into the rearview mirror, spotting the boy staring at him with his usual abundance of expression. [[ Why? ]] He signed with brows knitted together in confusion. As they came to a stop sign, Emmrich looked back into the backseat fully so Manfred could see him.

[[ I forgot. ]] He responded honestly with a shrug of his shoulders. The man turned back to continue their drive. Signing would be easier once Manfred was old enough to sit in the passenger's seat, better for clarity.

“Don’t forget to play it on the way home.” The familiar voice said after the handful of seconds it took for his son to type it. Emmrich flashed a thumbs up, and another bout of silence came before Manfred continued. “Thanks, dad.”

Children were rather observant creatures, they picked up on things many would neglect contemplating to begin with. Manfred was no exception to this. Even if he didn’t make his concerns clear, the boy could tell something was on his father’s mind. Emmrich didn’t forget to play music very often. After all, Manfred enjoyed the sensation of the speakers. So he usually made a point about playing the music for both of them.

A few minutes later, the car turned onto Hollow Road, coming to a stop before what was dubbed as The Belfry. A large historical estate that at one point in time was the home to some of Nevarra’s middle ranked nobility. Now, it was put to much better use, not simply existing to inflate the market of the area by virtue of its visuals. HOAs would never make sense to Emmrich because of their proclivity for overt classism.

The Belfry was grande in the literal sense. Expansive and roughly as old as his own University, which was evident in the way they were designed so similarly. Tall, cool toned columns clung to the stony walls alongside well nurtured weavings of Ivy. Grey was broken up by a soft shade of sage green that painted a majority of the walls. Waterfalling steps that led to a large set of wooden doors. The flat plain of the lawn was decorated lovingly with various games and play equipment but Emmrich knew most of the activities were in the backyard.

As usual, Emmrich and Manfred were slightly early and his son slipped his tablet back into his bag because he was used to the routine by now. Emmrich was out of the car first because despite Manfred didn’t require a booster seat anymore, the boy knew to always wait for his father to open the car door for him. He took his son’s hand and helped him out of the car which was hardly necessary as the rambunctious lad leapt straight down every time. Once the two were safely on the sidewalk, Manfred spun around to sign to Emmrich.

[[ Harm has soccer today, I left her book at home on purpose! ]] Enunciated by a stern nod and an exclamatory gesture with his shoulders. Emmrich narrowed his eyes.

[[ Very good, Manfred. But you should spell her full name if you don’t use the one you gave her. Someone might think you meant that hurt has soccer. ]] The correction made Manfred take in a sharp breath through the nose.

[[ H-a-r-m-o-n-y. ]] He spelled firmly with a purposely ill disguised eye roll.

[[ Thank you! ]] Emmrich smiled widely. [[ Will Sunny be here today? ]]

[[ Yeah! We’re playing dragons! ]] Manfred excitedly bared his teeth, making Emmrich chuckle.

[[ Wonderful! ]] He beamed in response. [[ I promise not to forget the music on the way home. ]] Manfred gave an appreciative swivel of his head. [[ I love you.]]

[[ I love you! ]] His son replied, splitting a grin and giving his father a hug around the legs before taking off in a sprint into the lawn.

Emmrich spotted Myrna at her usual spot on the porch while awaiting the drop offs, Vorgoth was always in the backyard waiting. Usually, Emmrich would chat with her for a few minutes but he was in an uncharacteristic rush. Which Myrna herself would likely attribute to some discomfort over their discussions over Miss Ingellvar these past few days. So they shared a quick wave before entering his car again and making his way back to Blackthorn.

Now that he was fully alone, the anxiety could worm up from his collarbone, through his sternocleidomastoid, to nestle around the back of his neck. This morning had been a miracle in the sense that he hadn’t entirely made a fool of himself. If he did, Rook had taken it in stride. The nature of anxiety meant that the more he lingered on it, the worse it became. First he has to go through the embarrassment of not recognizing her, then the refreshments fiasco, and then finally with asking her to meet with him later that day.

What Rook had suggested was entirely reasonable. Minimize to two days a week for the time being, she was being incredibly considerate! But admittedly, there was a sting of pride there. Old, petty wounds from the lashings of schoolmates in his youth. Most of which had never had to work a day in their lives and had parents who could pay for their entire tuition without batting an eye.

He could afford the sessions, especially if he arranged everything correctly. But Rook was right, it would be a hit on his savings. A worthy one so long as they succeeded in this ruse. It was still mind boggling that he was really doing this, his rings dully thumped against the steering wheel punctuated that fact. And Rook was proving to be one of the more unexpected twists. Making assumptions wasn’t something he got in the habit of, people like her were the reason why. And every time the anxiety began to rear its toothsome head, Emmrich would think back to how reassuring she had been. Full of honeyed smiles and saccharine eyes. She was the expert in her own capabilities, so long as she was sure of the arrangement was doable then he ought to trust her.

Before he knew it, his rampant thoughts had carried him to his destination and the intimidating covering of the sun as he turned into the rarely used side parking lot. Emmrich took one last deep breath to set his nerves. His satchel was pulled into his hand from the passenger’s seat and he was stepping out of the car without any further delay. Check the time again. 4:22pm. Good, he was early this time. A few more people dabbled the area compared to this morning, but nothing too overwhelming. No one he recognized from work.

As Emmrich rounded the corner, he caught sight of the familiar attire that previously alluded him. He was still some ways off, but a small difference he noticed was the absence of her cap. Now her hair was down aside from the sides being brought up and tied up into a small tuft at the peak of her skull. The bigger change had nothing to do with her appearance and rather the fact that she was chatting to quite a few individuals. Three to be exact.

Probably friends of hers, no? Emmrich thought it would be rude to interrupt. But it was so close to their appointment time. Surely there’d be no issue with him simply making his presence known, right? Subtlety. Just be casual, no need to work too hard to get her attention. He continued his approach with a relaxed stride and as he got closer he was able to make out more details.

Rook was standing by the stone railing, slightly leaning over its edge, that cradled either side of the pathway stairs. Geometric shapes carved into its surface and weathered with time. She was slightly elevated, her right boot planted firmly on the first step with her left leg boredly dangled off the edge. With her back facing Emmrich, he couldn’t discern her features. But the three young men standing behind the railing were smiling and jeering something to each other.

“Come on, can’t even get your phone number?” One asked with comical disappointment.

“I don’t talk to people who can’t pay their own phone bills.” Rook snipped in response, though it sounded like a spoonful of sugar taken after cough medicine.

Late teens, hanging out near a library to ride skateboards together, could be in college or waiting for a friend who is. The boards themselves were older while the phone the blond one held out was a very recent model, and all of them had nice shoes. Still early in the year, someone else was paying for their things. Parents. Could still be living at home. It was easy math.

“Does the name Damas sound familiar to you? Or Elek?” She asked, shifting the candy stick in her mouth. The three looked at each other with bewildered expressions.

“Why? You one of his girls?” Another one responded. There it was.

“No but the fact that you obviously do know him proves my point. I can practically smell the fake IDs hiding under your cheap layers of body spray. Not interested.” Rook was starting to get annoyed, never liking to repeat herself. Can’t a woman just exist for five seconds?

“Hey, you aren’t that much older than us.” The boy in the middle argued.

“Alright, let me break something down for you here.” She bit down harder on the stick, trying to suppress a groan. “How old are all of you? 19, maybe 20? Three just barely not teenagers all flirt on one woman at the same time, not a great start. You might have had a better chance of scoring if you didn’t act like a package deal, I would say most people find that off putting. So, I’m going to say this a little less gently this time…” Rook’s voice lowered, inching closer to the three which made her back arch. “Fuck off.”

The candied tone of her voice melted into something almost poisonous by the end of her explanation. But either the young men didn’t seem to pick up on the obvious malice or it only spurred them on further. A shared look was passed between them, as though a challenge for her attention had just formed.

“Well, you don’t have to give all of us your number. Maybe just me.” The middle one hummed again.

Emmrich was close enough at this point to hear the pop sound of her sucker leaving her mouth. These three were clearly not acquainted with Rook like he originally assumed. Inadvertently, he mimicked her base stance and placed one foot on the step not far behind her. The three young men locked eyes on Emmrich, who shot them a disapproving glance.

“Is there a problem here?” He asked. Rook’s shoulders stiffened upon hearing him. She glanced over her shoulder, quickly evaluating. And Emmrich caught the beginnings of that now familiar, devious grin forming on her face.

“Hey there, Sweets. You’ve kept me waiting again.” She said smoothly, dipping into the tone she used on him first in The Lighthouse.

Sweets? Was that supposed to be him? Rook leaned back, keeping her hands stern and curled around the railing’s edge. The leg that hung off the edge of the step encroached. A slip of pressure met the inner side of his left calf and made Emmrich’s gaze flick down. Rook’s boot disappeared from sight between his legs but its weight was very much perceived. She pushed herself a little further back, knee bending and slinking up the inseam of his slacks. With the twist of her ankle, the side of Rook’s boot fit itself tenderly against his lower back, giving a forceful push. Almost dance like in the fluidity in which she orchestrated it.

Emmrich’s half stance on the step became off center for a moment before stabilizing thanks to Rook’s leg pinning him into her. That and a reactionary hand that landed flat against the curve in her spine. She pressed more firmly, Emmrich’s lower half pushed snuggly into the rounding of Rook’s backside. His heart stopped. The position was far too recognizable, and that was largely why he stilled himself against her. Feeling peaks of smooth skin, cooled from the air, between the gaps in her fishnets. It was all only made worse by Rook nestling into him.

The candy was brought back to her lips, rattling against her teeth. The surprise of having been pressed into her faded enough to give Emmrich some clarity. It wasn’t difficult to figure out what she was doing. Fine, he could play along.

“Forgive me, Dearest. I was held up with a project.” He loomed above Rook’s frame, voice lowering into her ear. “I trust you’ve been well today, yes?”

“I was until a couple minutes ago. But everything is fine now.” She hummed. That smell, confectioner’s interpretation of berries was heaviest this close to her neck and hair.

The presence of her boot mercifully left him and she straightened her posture to abandon her place against the railing. Three young men shared glances once again, this time filled with palpable confusion. Rook spun on her one planted heel and the hand on her back naturally found a place on her waist. Now that she wasn’t looking at the young men, her eyes carried an appreciative expression. Good, Emmrich was playing the role she was needing.

“I’m happy to hear that.” His fingers splayed, as though comfortable and used to being there, some knitting between the threads of her fishnets. But the thumb kept a light touch on her belly. Rook noted that as possibly being one of his tells. “I’ve missed you terribly today, Darling. If you’re finished chatting, I’d like to hurry along. We have a few more stops to make after this, but I would prefer we get home as soon as possible.”

“You just read my mind, Sweetheart.” Her voice carried that tone again, laced with salacious intent and flirting that didn’t reach her expression. Rook moved around him, naturally finding a place tucked into his side so that he wouldn’t need to move his hand away. Her own came up to delicately clutch a fistful of his sweater. Emmrich’s gaze traveled back to the clearly uncomfortable young men.

“You gentlemen have a good day now.” Was the last thing he said to them before making his way up the steps with Rook in tow. The warmth of her skin was beginning to increase against his palm. And the fact that his rings didn’t press too heavily into her did not go unnoticed either. Once they were halfway up the path, Rook lowered her voice into a whisper meant just for him.

“Sorry about that, Emmrich. Promise I won’t make a habit of turning you into a prop.” She muttered, placing the candy back in her mouth again. “But some people just cannot take a hint, or a direct no. Sometimes it’s faster to make them think you ‘belong’ to someone else. It’s irritating.”

“It was no trouble, Miss Rook.”

“You’re really good about that, by the way. Nearly had me half convinced you were itching to jump my bones! I’m impressed.” She said in her preferred teasing manner.

“Yes, well, would it surprise you to know that I’m no stranger to this tactic?”

That was incredibly true on his part. Emmrich was well accustomed to being a ‘trophy piece’ so to speak. Before Myrna met Vorgoth, both before and after his and Strife’s short lived relationship, he even did this for Johanna a few times. Though, that was back during their school days when she hadn’t earned the reputation yet. The infamous ‘Never Cross Hezzankos’ and her penchant for making unwanted suitors either cry or wet themselves. Sometimes both. Truly, Emmrich pretending to be a lover did them all a favor.

“Still, have to give credit where credit is due. Sorry about your pants too, I hope I didn’t kick dirt up on them.” She apologized again. He did let himself chuckle at that, she’d have no real idea why that was so funny to him.

“Trust me, I’m not worried about a spot of dirt.” As they approached the entrance, the pair naturally separated from one another. Emmrich held the door open for her, and then followed close behind. “I care much more about your safety. Of course, I’m sure you’re plenty capable of caring for yourself but if you should ever require my assistance in such matters again, you need only act the part.”

The last breeze of the door closing behind them licked up the spot where his hand had previously been, sending an unexpected shiver up her spine. That was a… generous offer to make. Then again, if the plan was for them to be interacting this much over the course of the upcoming months it made more sense. There might even be times where they need to be out in public outside of his scheduled events. And frankly, Rook didn’t think she could pull off acting as his ‘daughter’, didn’t even want to humor the thought out loud. The boys outside probably assumed Emmrich was her Sugar Daddy, not unbelievable.

“That’s very kind of you, Emmrich. Hopefully I won’t need it though, right?” She kept her voice in a hush now that they were in the library proper. Some of the lingering unease made her want to try and keep the conversation light. “Speaking of, what was that you called me? ‘Darling’? ‘Dearest’? Really pulling out the stops for little ol’ me.”

“Says the one who called me ‘Sweets’. That was a new one.” Emmrich admitted. He did find it rather endearing though.

“And you should feel oh so lucky for that, Professor! Normally you’d have to pay 100 Kings to get a pet name out of me.”

Emmrich took up as the guide, already well acquainted with the facility. It gave Rook the chance to try and commit the layout to memory. Stone on near black wood, lighting fixtures purposefully designed to mimic scones, patches of wine red carpeting. The entire place made her feel odd, something about the drama of it was familiar. It didn’t look Antivan, but libraries there held a similar ornate quality. A pang of homesickness. If she could even call it that.

“Money well spent, I’m sure.” He mused.

In games of tit-for-tat, Emmrich was better than most people would anticipate. Perhaps it was just the left over traces of the act they had put on, but it had been awhile since anyone had played along with him like Rook could. Chalk full of what excited him, all wit and mischief. He didn’t get to indulge that side of himself as much as he used to. And it was refreshing to have someone treat him as a peer while also not being afraid to act less than fledged in his presence.

The library was quiet, but not in the weird way usually that made Rook feel uncomfortable. Silences that lacked a purpose. Like curdling anticipation. This one was nice, and it wasn’t entirely empty. Emmrich’s bangles lightly twinkled against one another at a much softer volume than she would think. Maybe he walked as smoothly as he did to avoid clattering too loudly?

The light trickles of gold meeting gold, ears honing in on the tip-toe like melody that only increased as they went up a flight of stairs. Emmrich would probably do well in a waltz. He leads with an ease and poise that allows Rook to follow in a gentle sway. Every once in a while, Emmrich would shift his weight to quickly pluck a book off a shelf. Never a full stop. Just a glance at the lines of titles and a turn that reaffirmed her belief. He would be an excellent partner in a waltz.

“We’ll focus these first few weeks on Nevarran history as a whole. That will become the foundation we build your study on.”

”I’m assuming that’s what Franziska is Majoring in?” Rook asked.

“She’s actually focusing her studies on the biological, but she currently has a Minor in Nevarra’s ancient societies, yes. Which is what led her to my class.”

“And you said she’s been doing work on something called the Banner Wars?”

“Quite. Miss Ingellvar posed some rather fascinating theories at the end of last semester. But I think we ought to save those talks for later, I’d rather these tutoring sessions be done as properly as we can so that the knowledge comes more naturally to you.” He explained.

“As opposed to me just being able to recite information.”

“Precisely, Miss Rook.”

A stack of five books were in Emmrich’s arms in what seemed like no time at all and he escorted her to an isolated table on the second floor. Tucked into a corner away from the central balustrades that provided floor windows into the lower level. As remote as they could get in a public space, not even prying eyes from below should be able to glimpse them. The books were neatly placed in the middle of the table but as Rook sat her messenger bag in front of one of the four chairs to claim it Emmrich tutted hurriedly.

“What?” Rook’s eyes snapped up in his direction and his own narrowed as though the answer was obvious.

“Your candy, Miss.” He said.

“Okay… what about it?”

“There’s no eating in the library. So, I’ll have to ask you to throw it away.”

His words stoked a defiant glimmer across her features, simmering into something more impish. Despite her boots being heavy, their sound remained a cushioned muffling as she worked back around the table to stand in front of him. A dance of fingertips across the table’s briefly caught his attention. Then he found her close again, nearly inches away just as they had been outside.

The act reignited his nerves and her scent weighed heavy in the air. He swore every time he breathed too close to her he could make out a more distinct note. Rook was good at changing between the personas. Like flipping a light switch. When her voice returned, it was low, sultry, and momentarily made Emmrich forget he wasn’t in an executive suite that could be rented out by the hour. For Rook, the real dance had begun. A delicate bow leading into a simple box step, nothing complicated.

“I’m afraid if you have requests for my mouth, Professor, that’ll cost you extra.”

This was a dangerous line to teeter on. And Emmrich could see in her eyes just how much that excited her even if the smile had left her face. Instead, her lips played closer to an insubmissive display. Thinned and straight with hidden pressure between the teeth. Daring his provocation.

Do it, give in, just a taste wouldn’t hurt. It was like he could hear her prodding at his synapses. Her full brows lowered ever so slightly in search of a crack in his manners. What direction will he lead to?

“It’s impolite to eat in places like this, as it can leave a mess behind.” He argued, choosing not to regard the taunt. Hesitation step, left turn. Move on.

“See, there’s a difference between eating and sucking. I should know, I’m very good at both. Besides, no crumbs.” In her mind, he guided her out and under his arm into a slow spin.

“Crumbs are not the only sort of mess, Miss Rook.”

“Oh, Emmrich, I can control my spit just fine. In fact, I usually prefer not to.” Maker, she was persistent. Back again in a stride across the floor, right turn, step change.

“The noise will be distracting.” The ebbing of a cross tone.

“I can stay quiet, sir.” Another turn. More.

Rather than respond, Emmrich held out an awaiting palm. Her breath was hot against his skin and well endowed with a syrupy quality. A cheeky tilt of her head greeted him. Without breaking eye contact, she crunched down on the sweet. It likely wasn’t too audible for anyone else but Emmrich felt it crackle in his bones like a snap of lightning. A recognizable blue tongue slipped a bit out of her mouth, poking the white stick further out in his direction. A compromise was always ideal.

He took the stick between his thumb and the side of his index finger. It left with ease, eyes focusing rather intently on nearly serrated edges of sugar left behind. If she were feeling extra cruel, she might have taken him by the wrist and forced him to watch her lap up the remnants. Sadly, she was feeling merciful because of the favor he had done for her earlier, and his gift to her this morning. So, she let him walk off with the evidence of her toothsome habit.

The dance was done. No descending of music, no sweat or adrenaline. It just ended. There was a tightening in her legs that wanted to reach out again to find the rhythm. But she knew better, no need rushing these sorts of things. Learning a new dance came with time.

In the few moments it took for Emmrich to make his way to a waste bin, Rook got to work. When he returned, the sight of Rook sitting calmly did take him aback. Arranging pencils, a fresh notebook, and a stack of purple sticky notes. It was as if… whatever that could be considered hadn’t just happened. Another flick of the light switch. Almost unsettling. She paid no mind to his approach this time, staying in silence while he placed his satchel on the flat surface and removed his coat. It found a comfortable place to rest on the empty chair to his right and he took his seat across from her.

“Now then.” He said, clearing his throat. “These first five books will be our source for the time being.” With an approaching thumb, Rook pushed the bottom of the stack to angle towards her. A single sticky note was removed for her to write on.

“Nevarra; A Deconstruction of Present, A City of The Dead, The 100 Year Reign of King Markus, Mortuary Matters, and… What Death Tells The Living.” She muttered to herself. The note was placed inside the first page of her journal before marking the date at the top line.

“We’ll be starting in that order as well. A Destruction of Present should cover a majority of our history to give us a good starting point for the other works, as they focus on specific periods. Miss Rook, how well acquainted are you with Nevarra’s past?” He asked.

“Is that a roundabout way of asking if I’m from here?”

“Well, you have heard of our Rites of Lichdom but you acted like it was separated from your history, so I already assumed you weren’t.” He said earnestly.

“Fair point, Professor. Fair point.” Rook chuckled to herself. “I don’t know a whole lot aside from random tidbits and trivia. Only lived here for about two years. Little less than that.”

“Understood. Then I shall try to keep a slow pace for this. If you have any questions, feel free to interrupt me.” He gave an encouraging smile. Good thing he did too, it distracted Rook just enough away from making the obvious ‘slow pace’ joke in the brief bout of quiet where Emmrich searched for something in his satchel.

When the moment passed, he produced a small, leather sleeve. Then came a pair of thin, gold wired glasses from within, which soon rested against the bridge of his nose. Of course he wears little round glasses. Creators, this was too much. An echo the same sentiments she carried this morning in regards to his watch. Bless him, he was adorable. Even Rook could admit to that much.

Emmrich removed the book from the stack and watched Rook make another note on her page. To begin, the first chapter covered the basics for Nevarra Pre-Imperium. Not much to go over, mostly the settlement of the Palansene and how their foundational beliefs would influence Nevarra from there forward. Rook didn’t require much explanation aside from him needing a definition of what an animist was. Which she did make a note of. Animism wasn’t necessarily commonplace outside of Nevarra. However the concept itself wasn’t what perplexed her, just the verbiage.

Next, they went over the invasion of the Imperium post The Neromenian Onslaught. Most countries this far north were considered part of Tevinter at some point in time, each modern nation breaking off as a result of the Exalted March against The Imperium. Again, Rook had little to say on this. So long as she was from anywhere north of The Waking Sea, this information likely wasn’t anything new. He did ask her to take note of specific years while within The Imperium, as those periods would be covered more in subsequent lessons, and she did so without complaint.

From what Emmrich could see across the table, she kept a rather thorough documentation of everything he was saying. She would pause briefly to hear him, and then take the notes nearly verbatim. That gave him the confidence to go ahead and pick up his speed closer to what he was comfortable with. This wasn’t exactly the sort of material he covered in his lectures so there wasn’t much room for him to expound but Rook didn’t mind that. By the time their appointment time was reaching its end, Emmrich had just gotten to the establishment of Nevarra’s first king, Verald. Rook’s phone vibrated to give a five minute warning.

“That might be a nearly perfect stopping point, Emmrich. Well done!” She praised with a comically quiet round of applause. “It’s almost like this is your job or something.”

“You make a diligent pupil, Miss Rook. I dare say I’ve never seen better note taking in my life.” Well, not since him and Johanna were in school anyways.

“Why thank you, my good sir. But I’m guessing this was you going easy on me.”

“The material itself is, admittedly, far more simplistic than what I traditionally cover in my classes. But the fundamentals are exactly that, fundamental.” If they keep this sort of pace then three sessions a week may not even be necessary for the base history portions. Monetary value aside. “How about we meet again on Monday? A fresh week for mostly fresh material since we got through more of today’s lesson than I anticipated.”

“Fine by me. I promise not to forget everything.” She teased.

Rook began gathering up her belongings quietly. For someone who took such care with their writing, the state of her messenger bag was what some may call ghastly. Hardly any rhyme or reason to the placement once put away. Not to mention the rather odd sound the bag produced as she rifled through it. A noise that appeared not to bother Rook, as she was on a mission to find something specific. Another plastic wrapped blue sucker found itself between her fingers. Emmrich couldn’t help but stare at it with a peculiar expression.

“Miss Rook.”

“Yes?” She hummed, looking up at him and finding that not only were his glasses already tucked away, but he had also begun putting his coat on.

“Forgive me if this is a rude observation to make but… well, every time we have seen one another it seems as if you’re eating those candies. Is there a reason for that? Low blood sugar?” On one hand, he was just curious. But on the other, he was concerned. If this was something rooted in a medical necessity then he would feel guilty for asking her not to have one while in session. Rook twirled the stick between the pads of her fingers with a grin that was unlike her previous ones. Sheepish wasn’t the right word but that was the closest descriptor that came to Emmrich’s mind. Embarrassed, perhaps?

“Oh, no. Nothing really like that. Ask anyone I know and they’ll just tell you I’m obsessed with them. Keep me focused.” She laughed, half dejectedly. Emmrich squinted at the wrapping when her hand stilled.

“Can’t say I recognize the brand.” That made Rook look at him with something akin to offense.

“You’ve never heard of Lyri-Yums? Seriously? Where have you been?” Now that she said it, the name sounded oddly familiar. He couldn’t exactly place where he’d heard it before but still, the logo was entirely foreign to him. “These things are like… a gas station staple! Or the cheapest jumbo bag of suckers you can buy at the drugstore that almost no one ever gets. Except for me, I buy them. They’re a classic. They’ve been around for basically forever.” More importantly, they were always plentiful. Boarders didn’t hurt their profits enough to be limited. “I can’t believe you’ve never heard of them!”

“You buy the largest bags they sell?” He wasn’t trying to be judgmental but… How many of these was she eating exactly?

“Duh! That’s how you get the best deal. I only really care about one flavor though so I hoard all the others and give them out to people and stuff.” Her answer left him somewhat dumbstruck.

“You… buy the largest bag just for one of the flavors?” He reiterated, somehow more confounded.

“What? I’m partial to Blue-Raspberry…” Rook stared pointedly in his direction, rising from her seat and taking her bag around her shoulder. “You seem like a Green Apple kind of guy… but that might be just because you’re a teacher. Orange, maybe?” She theorized to herself. Her sudden need to psychoanalyze him elicited a moderately uncomfortable laugh, like he was being scrutinized for something he didn’t quite get.

”I wouldn’t know, I’m not much of a sweets person.” He stated plainly. Once again, that earned him a rather vexed expression from Rook.

”Dude… are you okay? I don’t think I’ve ever pitied someone more in my life.” She said, giving a soft groan of annoyance.

Honing in on the usually decorative front breast pocket of his jacket, her typically mischievous smirk returned. With a half skip to stand in front of him and a nearly conspiratorial look in either direction, she carefully opened the pocket and slipped the candy’s stick in. A pair of delicate hands arranged the candy itself into a ‘suitable’ place. As though it were closer to a piece of jewelry than an indulgence.

“You can have one of mine. I have a million anyways and… maybe five more somewhere in my bag.” Rook went quiet, counting in her head how many she’d had since she last refilled.

“That really isn’t necessary, Miss Rook. Like I said, I’m not much of a sweets person-” Emmrich began to insist but she interrupted.

“People always say that but do they ever really mean it? You can have this one and if you miss me over these next terribly long, extended weekend you’re giving me, then you already have something to remember me by!”

Another one of her teasings, it seemed. Emmrich got the distinct impression that Rook wasn’t the type of person he should bother fighting with over something like this. Sometimes, it was better for everyone to just let someone have their way. Besides, it was a nice gesture. Fruitless, but nice. So, he took a heavy breath and let her be.

“I don’t suppose I’d be allowed to walk you to your car?” He asked politely, remembering what he had said this morning about being more mindful.

“What a gentleman! I’ll have to give you candy more often.” She said, stepping away from him to pull the stack of books towards her. “And you would be right, can’t have you finding out which of my several luxury vehicles I took to get here.”

“I could escort you to the exit at least. On the off chance any of those young men were perturbed enough to try and wait around.” He hadn’t been lying before, he was taking her safety seriously in this. After all, Emmrich worked at a University. No shortness of unsavory events in that sort of environment. He was glad matters of that sort were taken more seriously. But they weren't always and Emmrich wouldn’t soon forget that. Rook’s smile softened appreciatively.

“If I was worried about a gaggle of just graduated teenagers then I wouldn’t be able to survive this job. I’ll be just fine.” It was kind of him to offer. “Thank you, though. I can put the books away while you go off to your ‘other responsibilities’.”

She tapped her fingers against the stack and another light buzz could be heard before Emmrich could argue, this time coming from Rook’s wrist. Peering down at her watch, Rook saw the warning for her text window about to elapse. A light gesture brought the boat across the screen to unlock it and she lowered her voice into the screen.

“Hey C.T.” She whispered. The watch chimed. “Text V. Session done. On way home. Need longer windows to not be in public.” She shot Emmrich a sympathetic look and motioned for him to go ahead and leave. The same voice that Manfred would use for his tablet responded, also in a hush. Rook always thought that feature was funny.

“Would you like to send?” The voice asked.

“Yes.” She replied, and the watch chimed softly again. Emmrich grabbed his satchel, hearing Rook sigh to herself. “I’ll see you Monday, Lichdom.” Leaning back into her watch, pretending to need privacy.

“I look forward to it.” He responded, gently bowing his head before turning to head back down the aisles and towards the steps. In the back of his mind, Emmrich was relieved to know that whoever Rook’s employer and handler were, they kept close eyes on their employees. At least a little more reassuring that his worry was as unwarranted as Rook claimed.

Once Emmrich was far enough out of eyesight, Rook examined the books closely. She picked up their material for today, flipped through pages and gave a disapproving tsk. Emmrich had made it seem like they’d made great progress but from her perspective it looked more like they’d barely scratched the surface. He really had been going easy on her.

Her mind turned to her schedule. Thursdays were usually slow, clients preferred to be big spenders on weekends. So she didn’t have any appointments unless something came up. The stack was gathered up in her arms, not quite as easily as Emmrich had done it. Curse taller people for having longer arms. The path her new professor had carved was still fresh in her memory, and most of the books he had grabbed were generally in the same area so she found their spots with ease. All except for A Deconstruction of Present, that one she kept with her until she made it to the front desk on the first floor. A man with disheveled brown hair sat behind it, somewhere in his late 20s or early 30s, fiddling with something on his computer screen. When he noticed her, his eyes rounded in surprise.

“Hi! Hey, hi? How can I help you?” He asked nervously. Rook was used to that sort of reaction, so she smiled warmly with a small tilt of her head. Acting nervous.

“Hi, sorry to bother you but I was hoping to maybe get a library card? I just moved here and needed to check something out.” She made an awkward show of spinning the book around to show him. Unsure and a little demure, sometimes being over explanatory. That usually got people used to her appearance faster.

“Yeah, of course!” He replied, taking a pencil out from behind his ear and the book from off from her raised side of the counter. “I’ll just need to see your ID and I can add you into our system.”

“Got it, just give me one second…” She said as she reached back into her bag to find her wallet. The man looked over the title of the book she’d brought.

“Are you a History Major, by chance? I’m guessing you go to NCU.” He asked.

“Hoping to be and yeah, I just transferred this year. I’m not from Nevarra so I don’t know too much local history and wanted to try and catch up.” She gave a fake chuckle and tucked a loose strand behind her ear once her wallet was in hand. He flashed a lopsided grin. Easy.

“Well, if you ever need recommendations, sort of what I’m here for. I’d be more than happy to help, Miss…?”

“My friends call me Rook, but that won’t be on my ID.” She joked and slid the piece of plastic over to him.

“Rook. Mysterious, I like it.” He looked down at her ID card and made a note on a sheet of paper, then another one on something he pulled up from his desk top. She could vaguely see a string of black letters being added to a form in the reflection of his squared lens.

“Thank you very much.” She hummed. Keep the flirting light, natural and anxious. Act like this isn’t something she does all the time. “And I might have to take you up on that. I’ll probably be in here pretty often.” Rook watched him briefly nip at the inside of his cheek.

“I’m here most weekdays. Sometimes Sundays. The name’s Heiner, by the way.”

“Heiner. Is that Nevarran?” She asked.

“It is. Born and raised. Go Scarabs and all that.” He replied sarcastically. So he probably went to NCU.

“Let me take a wild guess… Lit Major?”

“Call up the Chantry, we have a prophet in here! Certainly not obvious on account of the-” He gestured up the ceiling. “Everything.” Another playful laugh. “But I obviously have a minor in education. Other than that, most of my knowledge came from this place.”

“A jack of all trades then.” Good, he probably won’t recognize Emmrich, so long as Heiner doesn’t hear his name.

”If only. But I do know enough to get by, and definitely enough to be helpful.” His gaze had traveled to admire her face, she could tell he was looking at her mouth. When she gingerly brought in bottom lip, he blinked away whatever thought had come to him and went back to the computer.

“I’ll have to remember that.” She mused and he tried to hide a pleased expression.

Pressing the enter key ushered the sound of a nearby printer whirring to life. Heiner plucked one of the sheets of paper, folded it in half, scanned the barcode on it, scanned the book, then stacked them both alongside her ID into one pile.

“Our machine is down right now, hopefully it’ll be working again by the weekend. I’m keeping a list of everyone getting a card. So when you come back in here next, show us that piece of paper and we can print your real card off for you. Might also need to show your ID again but if it’s me then I’ll remember you.” He said, sliding the stack to her with a slow push.

“Oh? Am I that memorable?”

“I would say so.” He beamed, watching her carefully tuck her ID and the paper slip into her bag. “In any case, you are now officially a hypothetical library card owner with Blackthorn! Congratulations, Miss Lavellan. Or should I call you Rook?”

“Rook would be perfect, Heiner.”

It was odd hearing her last name again, almost no one called her that anymore. It was purposeful, and she anticipated hearing it in this interaction. Still, there was a second where Rook felt her act faltering. She flashed Heiner one last smile before scooping the book into her arms. Gave him a little wave and made her way to the exit. As soon as the doors closed behind her and the autumn air tickled at her abdomen, she instinctively sought her comfort.

Blue-Raspberry sugar to make her think about anything else. Especially not the face of a woman who looked too much like her.