#it cannot be a decision you make lightly or without a lot of consideration and planning and research

[cat-skull]

it's so weird how unschooling is just now becoming like a more widely known thing that ppl are talking about because my familys been on that shit since like 2009

[saeransimp]

I forgot to send this before but how do you feel about some Little Spoon SE Saeran content?

You know the absolute direct way to my heart, Kait. I actually ended up writing this as his first time experiencing what it’s like, so there’s lots of feelings. And if you thought you were only getting fluff with this...think again :)

(1059 words)

Saeran is, by no means, a stranger to night terrors. Haunted by his demons and the trauma so deeply rooted inside his still mending heart, he’ll frequently wake up thrashing and screaming- still in a haze, he lashes out in a panic at anything in front of him that he can reach until he’s able to process reality and ground himself. 

Because of this, when he can tell that he’s going to have a rough night, he has to send you to sleep in your own room within the bunker. He despises doing this to you, and is overwhelmed with a guilt he cannot find the words to express. Saeran wants to be able to hold onto you without such an intense fear of hurting you after a nightmare- he wouldn’t be able to live with himself if he did. He will not become that monster. He cannot become that monster. And if that means sending you away to ensure your safety, he’ll do it, even as desperately as he wishes he didn’t need to.

Oftentimes, he needs to feel your warmth afterwards. Being forced to relive those memories through his nightmares makes him sick, and the only things that can soothe him are the sounds of your heartbeat, your breathing, affirming that you’re real and that he’s not being tormented back in that hell. He doesn’t like to wake you up, despite your reassurances, so he’ll sneak in as quietly as possible and curl into your arms, head pressed against your chest as he focuses on only you in order to stabilize himself until you awaken on your own. 

Tonight...well, he didn’t know what it would be like. He was torn between wanting you to stay, as it had been days since you’d last been together with him to sleep, and asking you to go to your room just to make absolutely sure you would be protected from his destructive tendencies just in case he happened to have another night terror. 

It was late, and he had been internally debating on this for awhile. Like always, though, you seemed to be able to read him like a book, without a need for him to actually say anything. 

“Hey,” your soft voice gently pulled him from his thoughts. “I was wondering if we could try something?” It came out sounding like more of a question, as your requests usually did- you were always taking his feelings into consideration and giving him a choice in the smallest ways possible, one of the many things he had come to love you for. 

His entire life up to this point, he was never given the freedom to choose for himself, it was always other people choosing for him...he never had a say in anything, not one that mattered...but with you, he never felt forced to do anything he was uncomfortable with. He had a choice. And he trusted you to always respect his decision. It was still something he was unfamiliar with, still learning to get used to. But he cherished it.

Saeran tilted his head questioningly, then watched as you stuffed yourself under his covers and lightly patted the space in front of you as if to make sure he knew it wasn’t a command, but an open invitation if it was something he would be okay with. 

He hesitated, but ultimately couldn’t resist the hopeful look in your eyes. So, with a sigh, he got up from his seat and took his place next to you, wondering if you could tell just how tense from uncertainty that he was. 

Slowly, you reached up and brushed his bangs back from his eyes, searching them, as if to track that what you were doing was okay. When he gave a slight nod, you moved to press a soft kiss to his forehead with a smile. 

“Turn around?”

When he realized what you meant, Saeran’s features contorted in distaste. Him? Be the little spoon? Why? He didn’t voice any of these questions, but it was evident he was leaning heavily against the idea. 

“If you don’t like it I promise you can move back. I won’t be upset, okay?”

And he knew you meant it. You were never upset with him for the boundaries he had to have. 

But, still, he needed to contemplate for a few moments until he eventually relented. But he couldn’t help but click his tongue in dissatisfaction as he rolled over. 

Saeran felt your arm sliding around him, your fingers tenderly intertwining with his, then your face nuzzling against the back of his neck. He was thankful you weren’t able to see the blush that unwantedly burned at his cheeks. 

Before he could say anything, you were mumbling soothingly against his skin.

“I’ve been thinking...when you have bad nights but you still want me here with you, we can stay like this and it’s safe. If you start kicking or even hitting at what’s in front of you...I’m not there. If you need to pull yourself out, all you have to do is slide forward without any struggle to pull your own arms away from me. And when you need me, instead of sneaking into my room, I’m already right here for you to come back to when you’re ready. We can be together and keep both of each other safe.” 

He didn’t know at what point it had happened, but Saeran had melted against you, all traces of his apprehension seemingly gone. Tears were stinging his eyes, threatening to spill over. You always put so much thought and care into him down to the littlest things, and he couldn’t understand what made him so special- but god if it didn’t feel good to be.

“Plus it’s cute ‘cause it’s like I’m your little backpack!” You giggled. 

Sarean found himself smiling at that. 

“So...Are you okay staying like this?”

Your answer came with him squeezing your hand. 

He felt more than okay, even if he couldn’t voice it. Content...warm...protected...happy...loved...safe. It was overwhelming, but...in a good way. 

Saeran closed his eyes, his fears of hurting you slowly washing away as he fell asleep. 

Little did you know that it would be something he’d ask for far more often than just when he might have a bad night.

[ibijau]

Part 2 of That Age Reversal AU

warning for canon typical violence, and for, like, all of Nightless City :)

Bent over some ancient maps of the region around Nightless City, Nie Huaisang barely noticed his brother entering his tent. 

The Sunshot Campaign, so far, was going decently but not great. It had been easy in the warmth of summer to make war, but now that winter was settling in, new difficulties were encountered on their side. Nie Huaisang, useless as a commander of men and a tactician, at least participated in the effort by organising supplies lines so they wouldn't run out of food and medicine. 

It wasn't the most glorious of tasks, and Nie Huaisang knew he would get out of that war without a title, no matter how important his contribution. It suited him just fine.

Still, he would have liked for some of the other sect leaders to cooperate with him a little more. They were all always begging for supplies, yet refused to contribute money or any goods from their territories, not until he sent Nie Mingjue to threaten them for it. 

And now Nie Mingjue had returned from the Langya front, hopefully having obtained something, if not from Jin Guangshan himself, then at least from one of his allies.

"So, how are things over there?" Nie Huaisang asked, never looking up from his map. It was so ancient, from back before Qishan Wen had risen to such prominence, but it was the only one he'd found in their library and he was trying to compare it with his memories of past travels to Nightless City. 

When his brother remained silent too long, Nie Huaisang finally looked up his way. He instantly worried at seeing Nie Mingjue so sombre. 

"Did something happen?" 

Nie Mingjue hesitated. Instead of answering, he came closer and pulled Nie Huaisang into a hug. It happened more and more these days. The initial glory of fighting for freedom was melting away, and Nie Mingjue was starting to realise what messy affairs wars were. It had become even worse since Meng Yao's departure, with Nie Mingjue’s temper rising too easily sometimes. Nie Huaisang tried to make him meditate as often as possible and closely monitored his spiritual energies, still traumatised by the memory of their father's death. 

"You're so quiet tonight," Nie Huaisang complained lightly, as if this weren't anything more than a mild annoyance. "Come on, say something. If you don't want to talk about the war, give me news of Meng Yao. Did you get to see him?" 

Nie Mingjue tensed, and the hug turned so tight that it was nearly painful. 

"I saw him," Nie Mingjue muttered. "They made him a foot soldier, like any normal recruit." 

Nie Huaisang sighed, and patted his brother's back. Of course he had expected that, knowing Jin Guangshan, but Nie Mingjue still held illusions about fairness and justice. 

"It's their loss," Nie Huaisang said firmly. "And Meng Yao is too clever to stand for it very long. It's good for him to see first hand how the Jins are, so he gets over his obsession with his father. That way, when he comes back to us, he'll know…" 

"He's not coming back," Nie Mingjue snapped. 

"Is he dead?" Nie Huaisang gasped, unable to see any other reason why their friend wouldn't return to them. Meng Yao knew they valued him the way Jin Guangshan never would. Aside from death, what could keep him from them? 

"He's not dead," Nie Mingjue hissed. "But he's also not coming back. He's made his choice." 

Relaxing a little, Nie Huaisang once more patted his brother's back, then rubbed little circles into those tense muscles. Of course, it was normal for Nie Mingjue to feel a little betrayed once he realised Meng Yao had really left them. And Nie Mingjue was only seventeen, with a heart too big and a mind still too soft, he felt everything so intensely. Whatever he said now, Nie Huaisang was certain his brother would welcome Meng Yao with open arms when he came back to them, and help organise his courtship with Lan Xichen. 

It would be so nice when things fell into place. 

"Da-Ge, you really like Meng Yao a lot, don't you?" Nie Mingjue asked. 

"I do."

"Weren't you disappointed when he left us?" 

Nie Huaisang grimaced. 

"A little, but you and Xichen were so excited about doing this for him, and… He needed to make that mistake to understand. I know he's a good and serious young man though, and ultimately he'll make the right choice. And when we have him back, we're not letting him go again! Not unless a great beauty comes begging to marry him."

"He's not coming back," Nie Mingjue stubbornly insisted, making his brother roll his eyes. 

Ah, teenagers could be so stubborn! This would be a lesson, not just for Meng Yao, but for Nie Mingjue as well. And when they had both learned it, they'd all be happy together again. 

-

Quiet wasn’t a word Nie Huaisang would have ever thought of using to describe the Unclean Realm, but upon returning there after the war, it was the only one that fit. Those high, thick walls felt safe in a way they hadn’t in years. The disciples making noise during training seemed peaceful compared to what Nie Huaisang had heard during the war. There were no more battles, no more wounded to care for, no more dead to bury with what little respect they could manage when they needed to be so hasty about it. Nie Huaisang’s office, a cramped room that saw little sunlight, felt like the height of comfort after so many months in a draughty tent where he always ended up getting mud on his clothes.

More than that though, the Unclean Realm felt safe because finally the elders had all been forced to accept that Nie Mingjue and him weren’t just foolish children playing at ruling. Nie Mingjue had proved an amazingly competent leader of men whose troupes adored him, helped in this by the fact that they had never lacked in any of the supplies they needed thanks to Nie Huaisang’s careful organisation.

Nie Huaisang wasn’t so foolish as to think he no longer had enemies, not after so many years of fear, but for the first time since his father’s death he felt certain that he had more allies than opponents.

It was an odd thing to feel safe again in his own home.

All Nie Huaisang needed to be happy was for Nie Mingjue to finish recovering from what he had suffered at the hands of Wen Ruohan, and then all would be well.

It really was the only stain on the many victories they’d obtained during the war. The fact that Wen Ruohan had managed to capture Nie Mingjue, that he had hurt him… But it was in the past now. Nie Mingjue was better, almost entirely recovered, and arguing daily with the healers for the right to get out of bed. Another week, the healers said, and so that morning, as he walked out of his brother’s room, Nie Huaisang privately gave it about a day before Nie Mingjue became too bored and ignored their orders.

With this consideration in mind, Nie Huaisang headed to the training ground to give some orders to the masters in charge. He couldn’t stop Nie Mingjue from doing as he liked, but he could at least make sure others would keep an eye on him and mind he remained reasonable during practice.

It was there, in the main courtyard, that Nie Huaisang discovered Lan Xichen. The young man, who was following his first disciple toward the building that contained his office, smiled brightly when he spotted him, and immediately walked his way at a pace so quick it came rather close to running.

“What a pleasure to see you, Lan er-gongzi,” Nie Huaisang greeted him. “Ah, no, my apology… it’s Zewu-Jun now, right?”

“Please don’t call me that,” Lan Xichen begged, blushing and wringing his hands. “It’s embarrassing, and we’re friends, right?”

“I just don’t want to be disrespectful to a great war hero. Mingjue is very keen on letting others people call him Chifeng-Zun, it’s getting to his head a bit. He’s such a brat. And I suppose you’re here to see him?”

Surprisingly, Lan Xichen shook his head.

“Hopefully I’ll talk to him later, but first I wanted a word with Nie zongzhu, if possible? I need your help with something that concerns your brother.”

“Then I cannot possibly refuse,” Nie Huaisang replied. “Let’s go somewhere more private, Zewu-Jun.”

“Nie zongzhu!”

Nie Huaisang laughed at the younger man’s outrage and embarrassment, glad to see that even after everything they had all gone through, at least this remained the same. It really was such fun to tease Lan Xichen.

A few moments later, the two of them were in Nie Huaisang’s office, and Lan Xichen finally explained what his problem was.

“Nie zongzhu, you know that your brother and Meng Yao��� that is, Jin Guangyao have had something of a falling out during the war?”

Nie Huaisang nodded. Nie Mingjue had refused to give him any details, but apparently the two had had an argument of some sort, shortly before Meng Yao left to become a double agent at the court of Wen Ruohan. Nie Huaisang had some vague suspicions that the argument might have been about that very decision to act as a spy, something which Jin Guangshan now claimed to have ordered. Knowing Jin Guangshan and Meng Yao both, Nie Huaisang rather suspected that the young man had gone off on his own in a new attempt to gain his father’s attention, which had sadly worked.

“They were such good friends,” Lan Xichen sighed. “And I like both of them so much, it really pains me that they cannot seem to reconcile. A-Yao really wants to, you know! And he’s so sorry for what he had to do while pretending to work for Wen Ruohan. I know that Mingjue is angry at him for it, but he really had no choice, it was the only way he could save him.”

Nie Huaisang nodded again. This too, his brother refused to talk about, and so he had only heard it from Lan Xichen. But apparently, after Nie Mingjue and some of his men had been captured, Meng Yao had killed those Nie disciples to amuse Wen Ruohan, all while waiting for a chance to kill the tyrant. Yet Nie Mingjue had only seen this as a betrayal, and would have killed Meng Yao if Lan Xichen had not pointed out that their friend had saved him.

Nie Huaisang, who would have slit open anyone’s throat, even his own or Lan Wangji’s, if it could have saved Nie Mingjue, simply failed to understand why his brother remained so stuck on this. It was sad, yes. He would have preferred for their disciples to make it alive, because they were his too, certainly. But sacrifices had to be made sometimes, and ultimately Nie Huaisang cared for nothing but his brother’s well-being.

For saving Nie Mingjue, Meng Yao had Nie Huaisang’s eternal gratitude.

“Mingjue can be a little stubborn,” Nie Huaisang said, which they both knew to be an understatement. “I don’t think there’s anything we can do about this situation.”

Lan Xichen smiled nervously, twisting his fingers.

“I have an idea, but I’m not sure Mingjue will like it. If I had your support, though… he listens to you and values your opinion so much, if you support it, I’m sure he will agree!”

“You overestimate the power I have over my brother,” Nie Huaisang chuckled. “I’ve never even gotten him to eat his vegetables. But go on, tell me your idea, Zewu-Jun.”

Lan Xichen bit his lip, and closed his eyes for a moment, taking a deep breath.

“I was thinking Nie Mingjue, A-Yao, and me could become sworn brothers,” he announced. “That way, they’d have a better chance to spend time together and reconcile! And it would be good for A-Yao to have friends outside of Lanling Jin. Even if Jin zongzhu has recognised him, I don’t think any of them really see his worth. But if he’s sworn brother with a future sect leader and with the brother of another sect leader, then they’ll have to treat him with more consideration, right?”

He sounded so innocent and hopeful, Nie Huaisang wanted to lean over and pinch his cheeks like he would a child. Lan Wangji really had the best little brother, and Nie Huaisang envied him to have someone like that at his side, instead of a wilful brat. If things had been different, Nie Huaisang really would have tried to steal Lan Xichen away.

“It’s not a bad plan, but it’s not exactly a good one either,” Nie Huaisang pointed out. “Nie Mingjue is too stubborn to accept this. And besides, if you swear brotherhood with Meng Yao, won’t it make it awkward later down the line when you marry him?”

Lan Xichen, always perfect and elegant even in the middle of battle, gaped at him with an expression of mild horror so ridiculous that Nie Huaisang couldn’t help laughing.

“Sorry, was that supposed to be a secret? Your brother kind of spilled the beans.”

“My brother told you I want to marry Jin Guangyao?” Lan Xichen gasped, the horror on his face getting worse.

Nie Huaisang grinned, and waved his hand.

“Something of that effect. He told me you had a person in view, and of course I’ve seen how you are with Meng Yao, so it was easy to draw a few conclusions. I can only wish you great happiness, although I will say that I’m upset you kept it secret from me. I thought we were friends, Lan er-gongzi.”

Lan Xichen gaped some more, opening and closing his mouth a few times, much like a very pretty goldfish. He then closed his eyes and, like before, took a deep breath before speaking again.

“Nie zongzhu, although he is very dear to me, I have no such intentions toward Jin Guangyao,” Lan Xichen proclaimed in a pinched voice.

“But there is someone,” Nie Huaisang teased, still a little pained that his friend had kept such a secret from him. “Come one, tell your Huaisang-ge about the boy you like. Is it someone I know? Does he like you back? I know it’s a boy, Wangji said as much, but he wouldn’t say more.”

“Brother talks too much,” Lan Xichen muttered, a heavy blush spreading on his face. “I haven’t said anything because I thought Nie zongzhu had enough problems on his own without being burdened with this. When we wrote to each other about my brother and Wei Wuxian, didn’t you always say you had no time for that sort of things yourself?”

Nie Huaisang waved his hand. “My case is different. Who can think of romance while raising a brat like Mingjue? I refuse to consider it at all for the moment, I’m too busy. Maybe when he’s sect leader, I can think about that... But that doesn’t mean I can’t make a little time for gossip now,” he added with a mischievous smile. “Zewu-Jun, tell me about your boyfriend. I need to make sure it’s someone worthy of you. Obviously Wangji thinks he is, or he’d have put an end to it, but Wangji has awful tastes so that doesn’t say much.”

“Nie zongzhu, please stop teasing me,” Lan Xichen begged. “You really don’t know?”

He looked so distressed that Nie Huaisang, for a moment, truly felt sorry for poking fun at him like that. At the same time, his curiosity was piqued. If both Lan brothers thought it obvious who Lan Xichen liked, how could he have missed it? Even with Lan Xichen being a kind and sweet boy who treated everyone warmly, including an old man like Nie Huaisang himself, there had to have been signs which he had missed.

Nie Huaisang told himself it was just that he saw Lan Xichen as another little brother and so the idea of him being in love was mildly unpleasant, but even that didn’t sit quite right. After all, he’d been delighted from the start by Nie Mingjue’s angry little crush on Jiang Cheng, while the idea of Lan Xichen liking anyone just displeased him.

Maybe it was just that nobody could ever be good enough for this boy who smiled like the sun.

“Let’s make a deal, Zewu-Jun,” Nie Huaisang offered with a devious grin. “If you tell me about your boyfriend, I’ll support you when you tell Mingjue about your idea of becoming sworn brothers.”

Lan Xichen inhaled sharply and pinched his lips, looking as if he might cry.

“Nie zongzhu, that’s not fair. The two things have nothing to do with each other!”

Nie Huaisang nodded, his grin growing wider. “Zewu-Jun, life is unfair.”

Lan Xichen looked down at his hands, fidgeting nervously. It was the most anxious Nie Huaisang had ever seen him, and as the silence between them started to stretch, he found it worrying. Lan Wangji clearly approved of the match, meaning it couldn’t be an awful one, nor an impossible one, so what could have made Lan Xichen so fearful to reveal it?

Nie Huaisang, feeling the other man’s anxiety be passed on to him, was about to call off the deal when Lan Xichen took a deep breath. He then looked right into Nie Huaisang’s eyes and spoke with new determination.

“I cannot give a name,” he explained, his voice trembling slightly. “This person isn’t free to be courted at the present, and I do not wish to add to his troubles. But I… I like him very much, and I have hopes that he at least likes me a little. It will be a few years before he is free to live his life as he pleases, but when he is… when he is, I will do my best to make him fall in love with me.”

“Isn’t it troublesome to have to wait like that?” Nie Huaisang asked, surprised by that dedication. “I remember being nineteen, I wouldn’t have had the patience to wait for anyone.”

“This person is worth it,” Lan Xichen replied vehemently, his face the brightest shade of red Nie Huaisang had ever seen. “He really is, and I really hope I can convince him to let me have a chance when the time comes.”

He sounded so hopeful and determined that Nie Huaisang couldn’t help being touched. For a reason he couldn’t quite name, he also felt envious of this mysterious man. His own experience with romance had been people attracted by his status as sect leader, or people trying to trick him into letting his guard down to plot against him and his brother. Hopefully he might get a chance at something a little less tainted once he was finally free to step down in favour of his brother, but even then he didn’t expect to ever provoke the sort of passion that Lan Xichen apparently felt.

“That man would have to be a fool to not fall for you,” Nie Huaisang stated, trying not to sound too bitter. “But if he is a fool, come to your Huaisang-ge for comfort and we’ll see what to do. Maybe I’ll decide to seduce you and keep you here in the Unclean Realm. That way you can at least become Mingjue’s brother, and we have much better food here than the Cloud Recesses.”

Lan Xichen quickly looked down. “I would very much like to be Mingjue’s brother, yes,” he whispered.

Nie Huaisang could only laugh at his quiet eagerness. He leaned over the table to gently tap Lan Xichen’s burning cheek.

“You really are such a sweet boy, I’m glad my brother and you are friends. Now, there’s an easier way for you to become his new big brother, so let’s go talk to him about your idea. He won’t like it, and I’m not sure it’s a good idea anyway, but I promised to help and so I will.”

Before Nie Huaisang could move his hand away, Lan Xichen grabbed it in both of his and squeezed it gently. To make matters worse, he then smiled that beautiful, bright smile of his, the one that really did make Nie Huaisang want to steal him away from his sect.

Maybe it was for the best that Lan Xichen wasn’t his little brother, because Nie Huaisang would have let him get away with too much, even worse than he already did with Nie Mingjue.

That night, when everyone had gone to bed, Nie Huaisang heard a specific knock on his door. Even recognising the signal, he grabbed his sabre on the way to greet his guest, but as expected it was only Nie Mingjue, alone and looking calmer than he had that afternoon when Lan Xichen had presented his plan.

Nie Huaisang couldn’t help smiling. That was just like his brother to act like that, exploding with emotion at first, only to later give things a more thorough consideration once he had calmed down. He silently invited his brother to come in, and quickly closed the door behind him.

While Nie Huaisang went to sit crossed legged on his bed (heavy conversation could be had in comfort), his brother decided to remain standing awkwardly in the middle of the room. He’d grown so tall, and yet he still looked like a little boy sometimes, shy and uncertain about what to think about complicated situations until he had checked his emotions and thoughts with his big brother. Nie Huaisang was going to miss that, the day Nie Mingjue realised he didn’t need him at all to make his mind about things.

“Do you really think I should do it?” Nie Mingjue asked. “What Jin Guangyao did was… it was really bad. I know he saved me, but I didn’t want to be saved like that.”

Nie Huaisang gave the question some serious consideration, now that he wasn’t distracted by Lan Xichen’s infectious optimism.

“It would put you in a delicate position,” he admitted. “Since you’re the youngest, you’d owe him respect, which you can’t seem to give to anyone except Lan Xichen.”

“And you,” Nie Mingjue protested.

“Only when it suits you,” Nie Huaisang corrected with a shrug. “But Meng Yao would also have a responsibility towards you, to be a model and a guide. And if he fails to act in a way that fits your sense of justice and decency, it would be easier to confront him if he’s your sworn brother. Otherwise, he’ll just be the member of another sect, one we don’t even get along with all that well, so you would have no right to say anything about his behaviour unless Jin Guangshan too condemned him.”

“Which he won’t,” Nie Mingjue bitterly grumbled. “But I don’t know if I can trust Jin Guangyao at all, not anymore. He’s not an honest man.”

“Neither am I,” Nie Huaisang reminded them, both of them knowing to what extremes he had gone in those terrible early years. “A-Jue, sometimes… sometimes the world forces us to make choices that we don’t like. I’ve made those choices, and I would make them again, because you matter than much to me, and I cannot regret them. This will be your choice. I won’t force you to go along with Lan Xichen’s idea, and I won’t even ask that you try to be on good terms with Meng Yao if it is so unbearable to you. But he will remain my friend, and I will remain grateful to him for saving you, no matter what choice you make, and I believe the same goes for Lan Xichen. Do you understand that?”

Nie Mingjue somberly nodded.

They dropped the conversation that night, and did not speak of it again in the days that followed. But in the end, Nie Mingjue agreed to the sworn brotherhood, saying he wanted to keep an eye on Meng Yao and that seemed the best way to do it.

-

It started slowly, a few light drops announcing a storm none of them could have predicted.

On the whole, Nie Huaisang felt little interest in Wei Wuxian’s actions and methods. The boy’s insolence amused him at best, because it infuriated so many of those stuffy sect leaders who had made his own life a living hell whenever they had dismissed him. He was perhaps a little sorry for Jiang Cheng who clearly didn’t know what to do with such an unruly shixiong. And he definitely felt very sorry for Lan Wangji who would never get to marry that chaotic boy now, but he was certain Lan Wangji was reasonable enough he’d recover from it with a little time. In fact, Nie Huaisang was already trying to come up with a list of available ladies of good birth and good cultivation that might suit him better than Wei Wuxian ever would have, anyway.

As for the rest, it really did not concern Nie Huaisang. He had maintained his grip on Qinghe Nie by staying resolutely outside of all those quarrels that other sects enjoyed so much. Nie Mingjue often berated him for staying so neutral, but it was simpler than trying to keep up with all the arguments that were happening all the time.

It was not his problem when Wei Wuxian, at a Night Hunt on Phoenix Mountain, alienated almost everyone present by showing off his methods. All Nie Huaisang cared about was that Nie Mingjue, using only legitimate skills and methods, easily took down half of the preys present that day, reminding everyone that the future leader of Qinghe Nie would be a man above all else.

It did not concern him when Wei Wuxian, on a whim, decided to further antagonise Jin Zixun and steal some war prisoners from him, even turning one of them into a fierce corpse of apparently unprecedented power. Nie Huaisang watched those events unfold, and felt very glad that neither those Wen nor Wei Wuxian were in his charge.

Perhaps it should have caused him surprise when Wei Wuxian seceded from Yunmeng Jiang and established himself with his evil cohort in the dreaded Burial Mounds of Yiling. But at nearly the same time the renewed engagement of Jin Zixuan and Jiang Yanli was announced, which was a topic worthier of Nie Huaisang’s attention. He ordered new robes, and commissioned a new guan for the occasion. It was a lovely wedding, and he spent most of it chatting with either the Lan brothers or Meng Yao, which was the most pleasant use of time Nie Huaisang could think of.

There were rumour of unsavoury characters gathering at the feet of the Burial Mounds, horror stories about the Ghost General that reached the Unclean Realm, causing Nie Mingjue to worry… but more importantly Jiang Yanli was going to have a baby, and who would have thought Jin Zixuan of all people would be the first in their generation to not only get married but also become a father? It made Nie Huaisang tease his brother about getting on with it already, or else someone else was going to snatch Jiang Cheng right in front of him. Nie Mingjue grumbled something about pots and kettles but refused to explain himself.

Then, for young Jin Ling’s hundredth’s day party, it became rumoured that Wei Wuxian had been invited, and Nie Huaisang felt comforted in his decision not to become involved. Everything was going to sort itself out, as it usually did. So Nie Huaisang enjoyed the party, playing at making Lan Xichen blush, until…

Until someone came in running, saying that Jin Zixuan was dead, that Wei Wuxian had used his Ghost General to murder him in cold blood.

After such a crime, even Nie Huaisang couldn’t refuse to get involved anymore. When Jin Guangshan called a gathering of all the sects in Nightless City to declare war against Wei Wuxian, Qinghe Nie had no choice but to come. To do anything else would have been to side with the Yiling Patriarch, and neither Nie brothers felt any inclination to do so. Wei Wuxian, whatever else he was once, had become a menace to be taken down and eliminated.

But perhaps, just perhaps, Nie Huaisang should have kept his sect out of this mess after all.

Because Wei Wuxian heard about their gathering, about the burning of his two closest accomplices.

To say he was unhappy about it would have been quite the understatement.

Very early on, Nie Huaisang lost track of what was happening around him. All he knew was that there were a great number of fierce corpses attacking them, more powerful ones than his cultivation safely allowed him to fight against. He was forced to stick close to Nie Mingjue, shamefully hiding behind his little brother when it should have been him protecting the younger boy. All he could do was weakly guard his brother’s back, and warning him whenever enemies drew closer.

The fight went on for what felt like hours, bringing wave after wave of relentless fierce corpses that never tired even though the living did. Nie Huaisang became convinced that they would all die there if Wei Wuxian couldn’t be stopped. He begged and begged Nie Mingjue to fly away while he still had the strength for it, so that at least he survived, but Nie Mingjue, pig headed brat that he was, refused to abandon their comrades, refused to act dishonourably even to save his own life.

But at last, after an eternity and a half, the number of fierce corpses diminished, letting them regain the upper hand. Nie Mingjue and Nie Huaisang, who were among the few still standing, were left facing a scene of utter desolation beyond anything that even the Sunshot Campaign had brought. Corpses fresh and old surrounded them, and everywhere all they could hear were the moans of the dying and the wounded rising in the most horrible sound Nie Huaisang had ever heard.

“Mingjue, take care of our people,” Nie Huaisang ordered with an empty calm he hadn’t felt in years, not since his father died before his eyes in a fit of murderous madness. “Do not squander your spiritual energy trying to heal them, but send a message home so those who stayed behind come help us. Leave the dead where they are for now, we can’t do anything for them, but gather everyone who is wounded and can be moved safely. If anyone is well enough to help, make them help. No spiritual healing! We don’t know if Wei Wuxian won’t be back.”

Nie Mingjue nodded numbly, looking lost and small for all that he was so much bigger than Nie Huaisang now. It was tempting to go hug him, to tell him that things would be fine, but Nie Huaisang couldn’t be sure of that, and they had no time for sentiment until they knew what had become of Wei Wuxian.

“Get to it!” Nie Huaisang shouted. “We don’t know how much time we have!”

His brother startled at his tone and turned to obey, but quickly stopped to look again at Nie Huaisang.

“Da-Ge, are you also going to look for survivors?”

“I’m going to look for the Lans and the Jiangs,” Nie Huaisang announced. “They were closer than us, they’ll know more about what’s going on.”

“Then I’m coming too,” Nie Mingjue decided. “I’m not leaving you alone. If he comes back…”

“You will do as I say and help our people!” Nie Huaisang hissed. “Find them, help them, protect them. That’s all you have to worry about for now!”

“But Da-Ge!” his brother protested, stepping closer, only for Nie Huaisang to stop him with a gesture and a hard look.

“For once in your life, you’re going to obey the order I give you, Mingjue. Now get to work! We don’t know how much time we have!”

Nie Mingjue, wilful brat that he was, knew better than to insist. He walked in one direction, while Nie Huaisang hurried into the opposite one, calling out for Lan Wangji and Jiang Cheng. If anyone had managed to keep an eye on Wei Wuxian it would be these two idiots who didn’t know when to give up on a lost cause.

Nie Huaisang walked among the dead, shouting and screaming and crying for whoever would hear him, increasingly hopeless to be heard when all around him were nothing but dead and dying people. Then, at last, he heard a voice calling him back.

“Nie zongzhu!”

It was a familiar voice. Too familiar, in fact. Nie Huaisang found himself running on wobbly legs until he reached the young man calling for him, a white shape stained with red. Falling to his knees next to him, Nie Huaisang gathered Lan Xichen in his arms, cradling him close against his chest.

“How are you feeling?” Nie Huaisang asked as he touched the other's cold face, already preparing himself to use what little spiritual energy he had to help the younger man if necessary. “Where are you hurt?”

“I’m not,” Lan Xichen sighed, clinging to him like a terrified child. “It was just so much, I needed to rest, I just needed to rest, but now I can’t get up anymore. What about you? Did they hurt you?”

“Mingjue protected me,” Nie Huaisang admitted, ashamed that he still had the strength to run around when Lan Xichen had fought to exhaustion. “What about your brother? Is he fine? When did you last see him?”

Lan Xichen tensed at the question, clinging to Nie Huaisang so hard that it hurt, hiding his face against the older man’s shoulder.

“He’s gone. He’s gone!” he sobbed. “He left us, he just left us! I thought that he was going to go over and kill Wei Wuxian when he collapsed, but instead he… Huaisang-ge, how could he choose him over us?”

Nie Huaisang cursed. He had thought that Lan Wangji had gotten over this, now that Wei Wuxian had shown his true face. The very fact that the Lans had been there in Nightless City had felt like a proof that Lan Wangji had truly understood there really was no hope for his one sided crush.

Instead, Lan Wangji had only been waiting for a last chance to join the man he loved.

“Xichen, what happened exactly?”

“He ran when Wei Wuxian collapsed, and… we were all so tired, but Brother still had some strength and he flew away with him. Huaisang-ge, what are we going to do?”

“Our best,” Nie Huaisang hissed.

It took some effort to get back on his feet, especially with Lan Xichen leaning on him so heavily, but Nie Huaisang managed, driven by a newly found hatred for the man who, until moments ago, he would have called his best friend.

“Xichen, do you think anyone else saw this?”

The younger man, trembling in his arms, managed to shake his head.

“I don't know. I don't know! I think... Just me, some Lans… there were still so many fierce corpses, I don’t think anyone was paying attention. Huaisang-ge, how could he do this? He’s our sect leader, he’s supposed to be righteous, he’s supposed to be an example, how could he choose that man?”

“He’s an idiot, like his father before him,” Nie Huaisang retorted, pulling the younger man closer to him. “Xichen, listen to me. Nobody can know what your brother did. Nobody except you, your uncle, and whoever your uncle chooses to trust. You hear me? Don’t tell Mingjue, and no matter what you do, don’t tell Meng Yao. It has to be a secret. If anyone knows, they’ll ask for Wangji’s head.”

Still leaning hard on Nie Huaisang’s side, Lan Xichen nodded weakly. 

“We’re going to find your uncle now, and we’re going to tell him what happened,” Nie Huaisang whispered, which got him another nod. “And then, you two are going to save Wangji from himself, and nobody will ever know what happened. Can you walk, Xichen?”

“I think I can,” Lan Xichen mumbled, only to nearly collapse at the first step he tried to take.

It broke Nie Huaisang’s heart to see him like this, wounded and exhausted more than he had ever been in the war, betrayed by his brother. More than ever Nie Huaisang wanted to steal Lan Xichen away to the Unclean Realm so he could be kept safe and happy, among people who would never choose a murderer over him.

But he couldn’t do that. After what Lan Wangji had done, Gusu Lan would need its Second Jade more than ever. They did not deserve him, but they would need him, and Nie Huaisang knew too much about that to really consider this silly fantasy of his.

What he could do, however, was pick Lan Xichen in his arms, the younger man too exhausted to resist the indignity, and help him look for his uncle. There was an odd sense of rightness to it, to holding Lan Xichen so close against his chest, the younger man's arms tight around his neck, like a bride carried into bed, or a child cradled by their mother. If Nie Huaisang had not been so distressed over everything that had happened, he might have questioned it.

But right then, none of that mattered. All that counted was getting Lan Xichen back to his uncle, and then returning to his own brother to check how he was doing. And perhaps when he found Nie Mingjue again, Nie Huaisang would hug him tight, just because he could.

Just because between the two of them, there could never be such a betrayal as what Lan Wangji had just committed that day.

[mordoriscalling]

The Shrike and the Lark (pt.8)

Jaskier and Renfri are disaster twins ruling Creyden. When the Warlord of the North knocks at their door, Queen Renfri and King Julian are at an advantage - they know him. As in, they know him. (Inspired by the Warlord AU and “the heart is a winged beast”).

(Pt. 1) (Pt. 2) (Pt. 3) (Pt. 4) (Pt. 5) (Pt. 6) (Pt. 7)

Credyen, 1237

“Give me that which you already have but do not know of.”

Following the Queen’s words, all eyes turn to the Warlord, whose countenance twists in rage. With fury blazing in his gaze, he looks every inch of the formidable, feared White Wolf.

“What have you done?!” he thunders. “Have you the slightest idea what you’ve just done, Renfri?! The Law is not to be trifled with!”

“I do not claim it lightly,” the Queen replies, unmoved in the face of his wrath. She glances at Eskel and adds, “But witchers do practice this custom, do they not?”

“Very rarely,” the Warlord growls. “We’ve learned to be cautious with it.”

“I am aware of the gravity of my demand,” Queen Renfri insists. “Yet it seems to me a fair price for saving your life.”

White Wolf’s fists clench at his sides. He seizes Queen Renfri with a murderous glare but she does not cower. The witcher curses and turns to leave, but it is then that a knock on the door resounds and Lambert enters.

When it became apparent that the Queen was saved, the Warlord’s School-brother was tasked with delivering the news to the people of the castle. Now, he returns and stops dead in his tracks as he sees Queen.

“Awake already, Your Majesty?” he says, bemused.

“The witcher potion seems to have done some wonders,” Lem answers.

“Interesting,” Lambert says, more to himself, then clears his throat. “Anyway, everyone rejoices to find that Her Majesty will live. Lady Chancellor almost wept in relief. She’s already overseeing the preparations of a small celebration.”

“Melitele bless her,” Queen Renfri replies with a smile. “Thank you, Lambert.”

The fiery-haired witcher inclines his head and approaches his Lord.

“Vesemir tried to contact you through Yennefer’s xenovox," he says quietly. "I took the message but it’s nothing bad, so don’t worry your pretty head over it. I’ll tell you later.”

The Warlord stills.

“What message?” he asks.

A deathly hush falls over the room.

“It can wait,” Lambert dismisses.

“What message?” the White Wolf demands again, harshly this time.

The tension in the air is near suffocating.

“New trainees arrived yesterday,” Lambert reveals reluctantly, with a frown of confusion. “Twenty-six boys this time.”

The stunned silence rings louder than any noise ever could.

Then, chaos beings: there is a collective “What the fuck” from the White Wolf, his right and left hand. Lambert demands an explanation and it is given to him, his “What the fuck” is a lot louder. Triss remarks, “This is the hand of Destiny at work.” Then, the Warlord’s companions descend into protests of, “This cannot be” and other such despaired arguments.

Meanwhile, King Julian and Queen Renfri stare at each other, eyes wide and mouth agape, until they simultaneously break into incredulous laughter.

“Hiacynt,” the King breathes out, awed by her. “There will be a future. Not only ruin!”

The Queen smiles warmly and squeezes his hand. He returns the touch, a joyful grin on his face. They both chuckle, but their moment of happiness is interrupted by the Warlord’s furious growl.

“I’ll not give them to you,” he decides. “The boys are... they are pack. My kin.”

“Think, witcher,” Queen Renfri replies, now angry as well. “If they’re your kin, then doesn’t the Law join our families together? Isn’t this the perfect way to seal the contract between our kingdoms?”

“It’s too much,” he snaps. “I will not give them to you.”

With that, the White Wolf storms out of the room. Eskel and Triss Merigold follow right after.

“Gods, what a fucking mess,” Lambert mutters under his breath, then leaves too.

Lady Yennefer and Lem linger. The elf healer changes the Queen bandages, instructs her not to leave the bed unless strictly necessary, then ensures that she drinks two cups of fluid. Overall, however, he deems her condition already much improved. Thus, the Queen does not require constant medical supervision, and Lem exits the chamber as well. Only King Julian and Lady Yennefer remain here now.

“Astonishing,” the sorceress remarks as soon as the healer leaves, her tone dancing at the edge of rage. “New trainees come to the keep once every three years.”

“It’s all a fortunate coincidence,” Queen Renfri replies.

“Fortunate?” Yennefer scoffs. “For whom?”

“For all.”

Yennefer crosses the room in a few brisk strides and stands on the unoccupied side of Queen Renri’s bed.

“Is that so?” she demands, her furious gaze boring into the Queen, who only nods. “How infuriating it is,” the sorceress ponders aloud, “that I cannnot see into your thoughts.”

“Do you believe me?” Renfri asks, small and vurneble.

Lady Yennefer’s countenance remains stern, with the same wrath simmering underneath.

“We could be a family,” Renfri adds quietly.

At this, the lightning disappears from the violet of Yennefer’s eyes. Her features grow a touch gentler, her posture becomes a bit less threatening.

“We could,” she allows, then promptly leaves the room.

After she leaves, it seems as though the world is able to breathe again. The twin monarchs just sit there, dazed, until King Julian comments, “She’s certainly magnificent, I’ll give you that.”

Queen Renfri snorts, a delicate blush rising on her cheeks, and slaps her brother in the arm.

“Idiot,” she mutters angrily, shooting him a withering look. Her eyes soften, however, as she takes note of the frayed state her twin is in. “Look at you,” she says. “You’ve driven yourself nearly to the brink, haven’t you?”

“What am I without a half of my soul,” he asks, “if not a shadow of a man?”

“Idiot,” she repeats with fondness. “Go to sleep, Jaskier.”

It is only mid-afternoon, and the sun shines bright outside, but Jaskier listens to the command without batting an eye. He removes his shoes and buries himself under the covers next to Renfri. She does not protest, shifting in the bed to make room for him.

“What if this is all a dream,” Jaskier wonders quietly, “And I’ll wake up to the nightmare of watching you die?”

“You’ll wake to me right here, whole and hale,” Renfri whispers, “I promise. All will be well now.”

Jaskier nods, closing his eyes with a sigh. After a moment, he begins humming a slow melody under his breath.

“Mama’s lullaby,” Renfri murmurs with a smile, then starts crooning the tune too.

With their mother’s song on their lips, the twins fall asleep.

Sometime after sundown, the Queen is startled awake by the sudden sound of flames bursting in the fireplace. It is Eskel’s doing; the witcher has been watching over the monarchs and wished to keep the fire going by casting the Sign of Igni. Before he can apologise for waking her, however, Queen Renfri poses a question.

“Has your Lord come to a different decision?” she whispers, so as not to wake her brother.

“He’s still of the same mind,” Eskel murmurs.

Queen Renfri releases a heavy breath.

“Does your Lord deem it such a terrible fate,” she asks the witcher, “To be tied to a Black Sun Princess?”

The White Wolf’s right hand measures her with a heavy stare.

“Geralt does not react well to Destiny’s games,” he replies. “He seems to have been her pawn too many times already.”

“Aren’t we all,” Queen Renfri says with a wry smile which Eskel returns.  

Soon, the Queen falls asleep once more. The Wolf witcher keeps watch by her and her twin for a few hours more, often regarding the King with a competitive look on his face, but then Triss comes by and coaxes him into going to rest.

King Julian wakes shortly after sunrise, and so does his sister.

“Gods,” Queen Renfri groans right after opening her eyes, “I need a bath. You do too,” she tells her brother. “You need to wash and change. Get out of here, Jaskier, I’m sure fresh air will do you some good.”

Jaskier obliges, grumbling that he does not stink. He leaves his twin sister in the care of her ladies-in-waiting, who assist her in the bath. Although Queen Renfri dislikes being dressed or bathed by anyone, she is still too weak to even stand upright for long. What is more, the bolt which wounded her not only damaged her artery but muscle tissue too. As a result, her right arm is immobilised. Since the Queen is right-handed, the injury hinders her everyday functioning considerably, which she is irritated with already. The fact that the healer only allows her to have broth for breakfast does not improve her mood in the slightest.

In the meantime, King Julian washes as well, though with much less annoyance involved. He is in high spirits, in fact, singing to himself all the while. Dressed but unshaved, he goes to the Great Hall to break his fast. The sight of the King walking the halls once more reassures his subjects greatly. Some courtiers stop by to inquire about the Queen’s health, and King Julian vouches that she is well and that they will see her soon too.

When the King sits at the high table in the Hall, he finds Eskel eating there.

“You kept the beard,” the witcher remarks as he beholds the week-long facial hair.

“It makes me appear rather distinguished, don’t you think?” King Julian says with a brilliant grin.

“That it does,” Eskel confirms, his lips quirked upwards, though there is certain tightness at the corners of his eyes.

“How’s Geralt?” the King asks after he takes his seat.  

“The same. I don’t think he’ll change his mind. He just wants to go home, may not even want to sign the treaty anymore.”

King Julian curses but does not say anything more and begins eating. Throughout the meal, he throws glances in his lover’s direction; the witcher is tense and uncharacteristically quiet.

“What is wrong?” the King inquires eventually. “Is it because of what happened yesterday? I understand if you’re angry, I imagine it’s not easy to –”

“You and your sister weren’t shocked,” Eskel claims, “to find that the Law would grant you the trainees. Surprised, but not shocked.”

The expression on the monarch’s face becomes serious and grim. Pushing his plate away, he asks his lover to follow him. He leads the witcher to the gardens, away from any prying ears. As they stop to stand under a lime tree, King Julian begins to explain.

“That night a week ago, when run out of your rooms out of the sudden, and asked you not to follow... I went to see Renfri. I had... a vision.” Eskel raises his eyebrows in surprise but does not comment. The King continues, “My sister and I have them sometimes, in our dreams. They’re incredibly vague and rarely ever come true but... I saw young boys living in this castle.”

“You didn’t want me to know,” the witcher replies, reproachful. “You invited me to your bed and took me apart, yet you’ve been hiding yourself from me.”

“I’m a strange beast, Eskel,” the King states in his defence. “I prefer to keep some parts of me unseen.”

“You’re no beast, Jaskier,” Eskel retorts. “Whatever creature you are, you’re not a beast.”

Jaskier, touched, brushes his hand through the witcher’s locks in a tender gesture.

“My wonder Wolf,” he murmurs.

Eskel kisses him then, passionately, like he is starving solely for the taste of his lover’s mouth. Jaskier moans and parts his lips willingly, returning the kiss with the same hunger. When they break apart, they pant heavily, their foreheads pressed together.

“I’m close to losing my heart to you,” Eskel confesses in a hot whisper. Jaskier gasps but is not given a chance to respond because the witcher says, “Yet, there is one matter we must address, is there not?” He straightens, looking at Jaskier with both heat and pain in his gaze. “You and Geralt. Whatever lingers between you is far from settled.”

“What of it?” Jaskier asks. “It’s all in the past.”

“Be honest,” the witcher demands sternly. “I notice the way your body reacts to him. Your heart sings for him.”

“It sings for you too! You must see that it does!”

“I fear it’s not the same kind of song. I would rather step back now, while I still can.”

“No,” Jaskier whimpers. “Eskel, I – with you, I’m learning not to be afraid. Of myself. Don’t leave, please – ”

“Don’t fret,” the witcher reassures. “You may still have a friend in me if you wish.”

Jaskier reaches out and lays his palm on the scarred side of Eskel’s face, brushing his thumb against the jagged skin.

“What I wish,” he says quietly, “Is to wake up and fall asleep beside you.”

Eskel heaves a sigh and presses his cheek into the touch.

“Destiny seems to have spoken, Lark,” he argues, voice low and mournful. “If you and Geralt cannot escape each other, you should resolve the issues between you as soon as possible.”

“What makes you believe that you stand in the way? My heart is big enough for two Wolves.”  

“Of that, I have no doubt,” the witcher answers, “But Geralt won’t allow himself a chance as long as he sees that I am with you, and he deserves happiness more than anyone.”

At this, Jaskier withdraws his hand abruptly, turning his head away.

“The Warlord of the North is fortunate indeed,” he mutters angrily, “to have a man by his side who loves him above all else.”

Eskel grasps Jaskier chin with his fingers and tilts his face back to himself. Jaskier allows it, though his gaze is set stubbornly downwards. The witcher leans in close so that their mouths are a mere inch apart.

“Forgive me,” he whispers, the plea sorrowful and soft.

“Only if you come back to me,” Jaskier rasps, the condition equally sad and gentle.

And that is how it ends: gently. Just a brush of lips, a pained sound at the back of Jaskier’s throat, a shudder of Eskel’s breath. Then, the witcher is gone.

Jaskier slumps against the trunk of the lime tree. He produces a string of foul curses, then his eyes well up with tears. He tries to blink them back but they fall anyway; it is not often that he has his own heart broken.

He is found in this state – the picture of heartbreak – by Lady Chancellor. Previously busy with preventing the kingdom from descending into chaos as the two rulers were indisposed, the lady now strides towards the monarch with urgency, her posture showing signs of alarm.  

“My King!” she cries.

“What is it, Temis?” he demands.

“Pont Vanis has been seized!” Temis reveals. “Kovir and Poviss have made their move.”

“Oh for fuck’s sake,“ the King drawls. “It can never be just one crisis at a time, can it?”

Read the rest on AO3

[fakeyellow]

They both knew their love would end tragically. It doesn’t make it hurt any less. Kamilah x human!MC through the years.

It is after a Feral’s sudden attack on Eden that Kamilah brings it up.

The Feral doesn’t last long before Kamilah eviscerates it and reduces it to a pile of ashes but it manages to leave a parting gift in the form of a nasty gash on Eden’s arm.

They rush home and Kamilah is tense the entire time she carefully cleans and bandages the wound.

Although the alcohol stings, Eden cares more about Kamilah’s distress that is so clearly visible to her in the stiff lines of her shoulders.

She hates to see Kamilah like this and Eden can’t help but poke Kamilah’s forehead lightly, smoothing out the furrow that’s formed.

Kamilah sighs helplessly at the touch and the tension seems to leave her in that single exhale, even as she cannot bring herself to meet Eden’s concerned gaze.

“When that Feral grabbed you… I feared the worst,” Kamilah admits heavily.

“I… I don’t know what I would do if you were ever hurt, if you-“ her voice dies in an uncharacteristic show of vulnerability.

“Would you let me Turn you?” Kamilah asks and the question seems to linger in the air between them.

Her request is not careless- Kamilah has Turned her lovers many times, but it was more common for Kamilah to refuse to, because they often did not know what they were asking for.

The life of a vampire, while glittering on the surface, is rife with sacrifices that not many can deal with.

But although she does not want to confine Eden to a life of hiding, to a life of darkness, Kamilah can’t help but want to be selfish.

She wants centuries, she wants millennia by Eden’s side. She wants to experience the entire world with Eden, creating an eternity of precious memories with the woman she loves.

“I…,” Eden’s voice trails off and her eyes are a storm of conflicting emotions because she knows what it means. She knows what it means that Kamilah has opened up to her so completely to ask this of her.

“I love you,” Eden finally says and there is a current of inevitable rejection in her voice that causes Kamilah’s face to close off.

“But I don’t know if I’m ready for that… if I’ll ever be ready for that,” Eden’s voice is small but steady- her response is not careless as well.

From the moment she met Kamilah, she’s wondered about becoming a vampire, about having a future rife with endless possibilities and love.

But even though she loves Kamilah so much that her heart hurts with the intensity of her feelings, Eden cannot quite bring herself to give up her humanity.

Even though many of the people she love are vampires themselves, there are many who are not and Eden does not think she would be able to survive having to watch the people she love around her die as she continues to live.

“I understand,” Kamilah says and she does, she truly does. But there is still a small part of her that can’t help but feel hurt that her love isn’t enough to make Eden want to stay with her, that she isn’t enough.

As usual, Eden seems to be able to pierce through Kamilah’s carefully constructed facade.

“Hey,” she utters softly, cupping Kamilah’s cheek and guiding her to look into her eyes, “Humans are a lot stronger than you think. I’m not going anywhere.”

—

Kamilah looks down at the woman sleeping on her lap and wonders how it is possible for a person to love someone so much.

There are no words that can even begin to describe the depth of the feelings Kamilah feels for Eden, all the more stronger in this single moment to themselves.

Although Kamilah doesn’t want Eden to sleep on the couch and wake up to stiff joints, she cannot bring herself to disturb Eden yet.

Her features are so peaceful and each moment with Eden is so precious, a memory that Kamilah burns into her mind so that she will never forget it, will never take her for granted.

Eden’s sleeping figure proves to be too much temptation and Kamilah tenderly strokes her head, running her hand through Eden’s smooth locks.

And then Kamilah can’t help but freeze.

She’s gotten more grey hairs.

It’s been 15 years since Kamilah first met Eden and she can easily recall that young, confident woman who was teeming with life, filled with an ambition to better the world.

These past 15 years have been fraught with conflict and battles against an unending stream of enemies and yet they have also been filled with such love, love that Kamilah never thought was possible for someone like her.

But the years have marked themselves on Eden in a way they haven’t on Kamilah; the grey hairs are proof of that.

After that discussion, Kamilah has not asked Eden again about her decision, even though each day with Eden makes her fall in love with her even more. Even though her heart grows fuller each day, fit to burst with the sheer love that she feels for Eden. Even though it becomes harder and harder to imagine a future without Eden each day.

“I’m getting old, aren’t I,” Eden states and her voice causes Kamilah to startle from her contemplation.

Although she hasn’t moved from her spot in Kamilah’s lap, Eden’s eyes have opened to look straight up into Kamilah’s, and there is a sad smile playing on Eden’s face, as if she can tell what is on Kamilah’s mind.

“You’re the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen,” Kamilah smoothly evades and her deflection, while expected, still causes Eden’s heart to ache.

While she loves Kamilah, her mind has not changed. Even though she loves the idea of spending an eternity with Kamilah, she knows herself. She knows that she would not be able to survive being a vampire and watching as everything around her changed and died and moved on while she didn’t.

Eden cannot bear the thought of growing bitter over the centuries and her love for Kamilah drying up because she can’t deal with her immortality. She’d much rather enjoy each moment she has with Kamilah now even if it hurts.

“Show me,” Eden says throatily and Kamilah’s eyes darken, the mood changing as Kamilah leans down to capture her lips in a passionate kiss.

Although they do not know what the future holds, they hold onto each other in this moment.

—

While it might be strange for Eden to be surrounded by the unchanging beauty of her friends, Eden takes her aging in stride, much like every other challenge life has thrown her way.

Although Eden is not a vampire, she’s made enough of a name for herself, carved out her own place in the annals of vampire history, that no one questions her presence next to Kamilah. Besides, it is not uncommon for vampires and older humans to be in relationships.

But outside of the vampire community, it is much more of an anomaly.

The first time Kamilah goes with Eden to the hospital, the doctor mistakes Kamilah for her daughter, and it is only Eden’s intercession that stops Kamilah from having the doctor fired for his incompetence.

Kamilah positively bristles with rage, sending the doctor off with a cold, seething remark but Eden simply laughs it off.

“They don’t know us,” Eden says with a smile that conveys the maturity and wisdom she’s gained over the years, “Their opinions don’t matter.”

Kamilah’s anger is not completely gone but she calms down considerably.

“I love you,” Kamilah declares and part of her still thrills at this admission, that she can feel so comfortable saying these words. Eden’s heart rate spikes at this and Kamilah can’t help the swell of affection that rushes in her own heart.

“I love you too,” Eden says warmly.

Kamilah holds Eden tightly to her and places a soft kiss to her grey hair.

—

The years continue to pass at a frighteningly fast rate and Eden continues to age even as Kamilah looks like the same woman she’s been for thousands of years.

it pains Kamilah in a way she cannot fully express to see the woman she loves go through all these milestones that Kamilah will never get to experience.

Wrinkles set into the corners of Eden’s eyes and Kamilah begins to despise her own smooth and unchanging features.

There is nothing more that Kamilah wants than to grow old with Eden, to feel the warmth of the sun on their skin, to die knowing their lives have been filled with love.

And instead, she is condemned to this cursed immortality, helpless as the woman she loves begins to wither.

At the age of 80, Eden is diagnosed with heart failure (it’s almost poetic; her heart is finally giving out after a lifetime of fiercely loving others) and things quickly take a sharp turn for the worse.

Even with all the different medications she’s prescribed, her heart just cannot function the way her body needs it to.

After numerous readmissions and unsuccessful implantations of devices, the doctors finally bring up the term “palliative care” and Kamilah cannot accept this.

She goes into a terrible rage, her eyes burning red because surely there is something they can do with all of their knowledge and equipment.

The doctor looks half dead with fright but there is no sign of Kamilah taking mercy on them until Eden places a frail hand on Kamilah’s arm.

“I want to go home.”

They lie in bed together now and Kamilah holds onto her as if she is the most precious thing in the world, as if she will not let anything take Eden from her arms.

Eden also hugs Kamilah tightly but the weakness of her grip makes Kamilah’s eyes water.

While being a vampire has given Kamilah so much, there is so much more it has taken from her and she has never felt the loss of her humanity quite so keenly as she does in this moment.

“I loved every moment I had with you,” Eden whispers and Kamilah shakes her head, sensing her words for what they are: a farewell.

“Don’t say that,” Kamilah murmurs, her voice thick with tears as she pulls Eden even closer to her, “We still have so much to do. We were going to visit Adrian, Lily, and Jax tomorrow, remember? They’re going to be waiting for us.”

The tears stream down Kamilah’s cheeks and she finally breaks down, “You said you weren’t going anywhere.”

Eden doesn’t respond and her arms fall limp and Kamilah cries into the cold, cold embrace of the woman who holds her heart.

—

A/N: I don’t know how to end stories, help. also, cardiology is hell, help. also, i couldn’t think of a summary so i bs’ed it, my b 

extra snippet based on Vampire Knight Memories (although it’s much sadder actually seeing the scene drawn out):

Kamilah focused intently on the stack of papers in front of her, flipping through pages and occasionally striking out lines and writing in corrections. It was in the middle of this intense concentration that Kamilah suddenly rose, her eyes checking her watch. It was time for Eden’s pills.

She poured a glass of water from the ever present platter on her desk and made to leave her office only to freeze in front of the door.

Kamilah exhaled tremulously, her grip tightening on the useless cup of water.

Oh. That was right.

Eden was gone.

[darkestdesired]

Immortal Guardians

PART 2

Requested by : @stargirl4e

Tags:@vxidnik @nadinissavage

Summery: How will the Volturi react to their favorite human growing up?Rosalie becomes worried,how long will the reader remain human after some shocking news?

Volturi x reader

King x reader

AN: I really like this Gif of Rosalie,she looks so beautiful.I’m not spoiling which king i picked since the requester wanted to be surprised.Hope you like it! I have a special twist coming up in the next chapter so stay tuned! Love you all! 

It had been 14 years since i first met the Volutri,the Cullens were surprised by how they treated me.But sadly i hadn't seen them in 5 years,they became distracted by a rogue vampire army in Germany that needed their full attention.Once they destroyed the army they were all eager to see me,they knew my 20th birthday was coming up so they invited all of us to Rome.I followed my siblings into the castle,i may have been the oldest but they still treated me like their little sister.I didn't mind it,whatever made them happy was okay in my book.They had sent me a beautiful gown that looked like something straight from Mary Antoinette's wardrobe.I heard heels clicking and looked ahead of us to see Alec and Jane running towards us.A happy grin spread across their faces when they saw me pull down my hood,"(Y/n)!" I weaved past my siblings and pulled the twins into a tight hug."I missed you guys so much!" Alec pulled away and looked me up and down."Wow,you've grown up a lot since we last saw you." I giggled."I can't believe you're going to be 20." I smiled at Jane."You're making me feel old!" Jane shook her head as she laughed."Come along,everyone is super excited to see you." I nodded and we followed as Jane and Alec led the way,i looked around at all of the agriculture,The castle was gorgeous and i felt strangely comfortable.I hid behind Emmett and jasper as Jane and Alec pushed open the doors to the throne room. Aro stood up with a smile,Marcus perked up and Caius looked at all of my siblings,they could me hear and smell me but they couldn't see my face other then my dress peeking out behind my brothers."Ah,the Cullens.We are so very glad you could all make it." Edward gave a small apologetic smile."Yes,a few members had to stay behind." He was referring to Carlisle and Esme,they stayed home with renesmee who wanted to stay with Jacob. Aro nodded and looked across the group,"And where is our little human?" Emmett and jasper stepped out of the way to reveal me,i giggled as i saw their eyes widen.Marcus's bored expression change to a wide smile, Even caius cracked a smile,but Aro,Aro was in complete shock.

He hadn't realized I'd grow up so fast,but here i was,a grown woman."Aro are you alright?" Aro quickly broke from his trance,not realizing he had been staring into my eyes the entire time."Ah..yes my dear,i am alright,you just surprised me." Marcus and caius appeared next to him. Caius noticed i wasn't wearing heels like my sisters,"Why do you insist on wearing flats?" I glanced at my shoes before looking up at him with a smile."I remembered how much you hate the sound of clicking heels so i decided to wear flats." Aro smiled at me."You are very considerate Cara Mia." I blushed lightly."It's nothing,Anyways,i was told that you all had a surprise for me,Alice and Edward wouldn't tell me anything." Marcus smiled down at me."We cannot tell you either,Just know that you need to stay in your room while we finish preparing it.Jane,will you and Alec watch over her?" Jane and Alec perked up and grabbed my hands."Now go on,I promise you'll love the surprise." Aro cooed.Jane and Alec led me past my siblings,i waved as they watched worriedly,Except for Edward and Alice who smiled and waved back.Marcus noticed the way Aro was watching me as i left with Jane,He used his powers and noticed the bond form between me and Aro.He gave Aro his hand,Aro looked at him in surprise.Edward clenched his jaw,he wasn't happy with Aro being my mate but he could tell from Alice's vision that we would be happy together, even if there were a couple obstacles."I see,What unexpectedly wonderful news." Rosalie furrowed her eyebrows."What is it brother?" Caius asked confused."Aro started a mating bond with (Y/n)." The others looked at Edward in shock."No!It can't be him! Anyone but him!" Rosalie growled.Demetri and Felix growled back at her,they were ready to fight."Rosalie calm down." Emmett held onto Rosalie,but she was livid."NO! I will not let you have her!" Caius growled."You do not have a choice,this is up to Aro and (Y/n)!" Jasper sent calming waves to everyone so that they'd calm down."I know she's always going to be our baby sister but she's old enough to make her own decisions."Rosalie glared at jasper,She knew he was right,but she couldn't stand the thought of someone as kind as me being with an old power hungry vampire."I won't accept this,but if she agrees then I'll allow her to be with you,but if you so much as hurt a single hair on her head we will hunt you down and rip you to pieces." Aro raised a brow,"If i ever hurt her i believe you all might need to wait in line to kill me,Everyone here would die for her." Felix,Demetri and the the other two kings nodded in agreement.

I walked around the room while Jane and Alec asked me questions."So,have you met anyone?" Alec smirked.I shook my head,"No....well..there's one man who I've liked for a very, very long time,but i doubt he'd see me as nothing but a child."Jane and Alec looked at each other then at me,"What is he like?" i smiled and sat on the couch in between them."He's a few inches taller then me,he's also vampire,he has gorgeous red eyes that i could stare into for days,his hair is as dark as night and soft to the touch.He's intelligent,kind,and gentle.When I'm with him it's as if the rest of the world disappears." I looked down at my hands with a smile on my face.Jane and Alec gave each other a knowing look,being vampires they heard the entire conversation from the throne room,"Why don't you confess? I'm sure this man will feel the same." Jane gave my hand a reassuring squeeze."Maybe,but what if he doesn’t? The rejection will hurt touch for me to bare." Alec rubbed my shoulder."He'd be crazy to ever reject someone as amazing as you." I kissed their cheeks and smiled."what would i ever do without you two?" Alec smiled back."You'll never have to know." Jane and Alec perked up,"Their ready,we need to blindfold you." I giggled as they blindfolded me and led me down the hall,"So this is how i die,blindfolded in a gorgeous castle." I heard a bunch of laughter,and one voice i recognized as Felix,"Very funny." I could smell a fresh scent of flowers.I was sat on a chair,"You may take off your blindfold Cara Mia." I heard Marcus say.I gently untied my blindfold and gasped when i opened my eyes.I was in a giant ball room surrounded by my family,there were fresh flowers and rose petals everywhere.I covered my mouth as tears fell down my cheeks,The Volturi’s smiles dropped as Aro ran to me."I am sorry,Is it that bad?We can fix it,anything you'd like." I laughed as i wiped my eyes."It's perfect,Thank you all so much." There were a few sighs of relief. Aro kissed my hand,”I am so happy to hear that Cara Mia,You scared me for a moment there.” i giggled as he helped me stand.”Sorry,Wouldn’t want you to have a heart attack,would we?” i teased with a smirk. Aro leaned in a bit more,”Only from you my queen.” He chuckled as my face turned red.”This is your night,Let us celebrate.” i smiled and nodded,he held my hand as he led me to the others.This night would be one of my happiest and most treasured memories,if only i knew what waited for me the morning after.

[justoneday-namjoonii]

It burns, doesn’t it? [Pt. 16]

Genre/au: Mafia!au, Mature, Fluff, Angst. Violence and all that good mafia stuff. Warning: Depictions of graphic torture and brief/mentioned sexual assault. This story contains graphic imagery, mental health problems, mature subject matter, improper drug usage, suggestive language, self-medication, crude/unnerving behavior, toxic coping, intensity, bloodshed. If you’re easily triggered, please proceed with caution or don’t proceed.

members: Jungkook x Yoongi x Namjoon x Jin x Hoseok x Jimin x Taehyung x Ft. Got7 

pairing: Jungkook x reader x ?

summary: Why am I hurting alone? Why am I in love alone? 

word count: 10k +

author’s note: wow, its been almost 9 months, the long-awaited pt 16 is finally here!! I apologize for the wait, I had a lot going on in my life but I’m good^^ Anyway, I’m excited to see how this series continues to progress and all I really have to say is...its getting real♡

| Prologue | Pt. 1 | Pt. 2 | Pt. 3 | Pt. 4 | Pt. 5 | Pt. 6 | Pt. 7 | Pt. 8 | Pt. 9 | Pt. 10 | Pt. 11 | P. 12 | Pt. 13 | Pt. 14 | Pt. 15 | Pt. 16 | Pt. 17 | Pt. 18 | Pt. 19 | Pt. 20 |

Another late night.

It seemed like the only constant in his life right now is the smiling faces of his two children. They’re often asleep when he gets home, so it’s no surprise that he doesn’t hear their giggles and bickering at this time of night. He walks down the hallway, pulled at his tie and opened his bedroom door. That’s when he saw his wife sitting with a book up to her nose, eyes shifting to him upon his arrival.

“How was work, honey? You’re back much later than I thought you’d be.” His wife greets him with a kiss on the cheek as he enters their bedroom fully, briefcase being dropped to the side so he could embrace her.

“Yeah, I’m sorry, the station is a mess right now.” He released her so he could go to the restroom. He continued to speak, “I’m hoping that’ll change soon.”

He showered, tiredly washing the day off of him with the help of steaming hot water. The idea of all of the mayhem he’s in weighed on his mind, there are so many people involved and it’s all up to him to put it to a stop, for once and for all.

After he showered, he turned off the lamp and sat on the edge of the bed, just gazing out of the window.

“Honey...” His wife pipes up from her side of the bed. “What’s wrong?”

“Do you ever feel like what you’re doing won’t really make a difference? Like your work won’t pay off in the long run...Or have you ever been faced with a decision that could change lives? And you just feel scared.”

She smiled in sympathy for her husband's distress. 

“Of course honey, every nurse feels like that sometimes.” 

“But what do you do? Do you leave it for someone else whos more capable? Or do you just, go for it?...”

“Well, is it the right thing to do?”

He nods.

“Then the answer is simple, sweetheart.” She pecks his cheek, a grin on her beautiful face.

“If you have the chance to do good, then you do it.”

- The night after you met with Jungkook. -

[ 2:09 AM ]

It didn’t feel real, it couldn’t be. But you still feel his hands on your skin, his lips on your neck, and his breath against your ear—he leaves his imprint on you every time you two touch, and he hasn’t touched you in what feels like forever. Empty, that’s the word that comes to mind. A hollowness in your soul that cannot be sated, not anymore.

Jimin drove you back home, or at least back to what you call home right now. You two made it to the base and you were silent, you didn’t say anything, neither did Jimin. It wasn’t because of any hard feelings, it was because you were in shock and Jimin was just processing what he just did. He took you to see Jungkook, he gave you what you wanted, so why does it feel like he made it worse?

“I’m-...” Jimin began to say something but stops, causing you to peer at him for a moment. When he meets you curious gaze, he lets out a sigh. “I’m glad you got to see him.” He thought you would agree, or thank him, the last thing he thought you would do is start to cry.

He was completely caught off guard, so much so that he diverted his gaze. He turned the car off and waited—what he was waiting for, he wasn’t quite sure, but he wanted to tread lightly.

“I’m gonna go to my room...” You choke that out and before he registers what you said, you’re out of the car and running to the back door he took you out of.

What went wrong? You shouldn’t have been upset, he let you see Jungkook and that’s all you’ve wanted, so why are you crying all of a sudden?

Jimin understands all too well the turmoil that goes on within the head of a brokenhearted person—your heart was broken over having to leave Jungkook.

He walks into his bedroom and crashes on the bed, mind begging for a break from the mental exhaustion of the night.

The night goes on and you’ve been completely quiet for a few hours, until now. He kept hearing a bumping noise like something kept falling or something was being hit repeatedly. He got up from his bed and tiptoed to your room, even though there were still quite a few people awake, he didn’t want to be obvious as he ventured to your room.

He knocked on the door, once. When you didn’t answer, he knocked again. “Y/n? Are you okay?” You respond with an unconvincing, ‘I’m fine.’

“But I heard a bumping noise, did you fall?”

He grips the door nob and slowly pushes it open, and there you are, sitting on your bed, but laying half your body on your side. You don’t look back, even after he closes the door, you still don’t look to see who it is. He circles around the bed to where you are and furrows his brows. You’re wearing a tee-shirt, and that’s it—you must have just finished applying ointment.

“Hey,” Jimin approaches you, “Is everything okay?”

“I was hurting, everywhere...” He studies your surroundings and sees that a pill bottle was on your nightstand. It was open and it looked like you took a few out. “I took some medicine and it stopped, I’m fine, you didn’t have to come to check on me.”

Worry is deeply engraved in his brows. “Y/n, you don’t need those anymore,” He goes over to quickly close the bottle and tuck it in his pocket, “how many did you take?”

“A few...” Your speech is slurred and he notices a bunch of scars on your thighs that he’s never seen before. But rather than focusing on those, he decides to address a more pressing issue.

“Why did you do that? Those drugs are addictive, you know better than to get back on them. Especially without telling me-” He stops talking when you sit up and stare blankly at yourself, you look dazed but at the same type laser-focused.

“But I’m in pain, my insides hurt, everything hurts.” You blink slowly. “The pills...they help, a lot...”

“You’re not supposed to use drugs like that.”

“But you’re not feeling the pain I’m feeling...” You frown.

“I know but you can’t just take anything, it can really hurt you.” He comes to sit beside you and he rubs your back soothingly.

“Look...” You muttered, pointing to your thighs. You were healing considerably, the scars you’re pointing to are really not that bad anymore but you thought otherwise.

“Look at me, look at this.” Your tone was getting progressively more tense, angry almost—you poked at the skin with a look of disgust on your face, making him increasingly more worried. “It’s gross,”

“Stop,” He grabbed your wrist to stop you from jabbing at yourself, “don’t do that.”

You stare at him, blankly, just before grinning. “Why?...”

“Just don’t.”  

“But I want to...” You begin to trace the scars with your index finger, looking at him at the same time and this time he grabbed your hand, but he didn’t let you go.

“Stop.”

All of a sudden, your stomach begins to turn and twist painfully and you hunch over with a hand clamped to your mouth. “I think- I-”

You yank away and run to the bathroom as quickly as your feet can take you to and Jimin immediately runs after you. You’re sitting hunched over the toilet, expelling your insides. He sits on his knees to rub your back as you have painfully, body forcing you to throw up all you had eaten in the last few hours. He can’t say he’s surprised, that’s what happens when you just swallow random pills, of course, your stomach isn’t pleased with intense drugs on an empty stomach.

“Baby...” He tentatively grips your hair and holds it up in a makeshift ponytail. “Why did you do this?”

You cough, head hung low and legs folding under you painfully. You flush the toilet after you realize your stomach had stopped attempting to murder you. Empty—your mind is empty, your stomach is empty, and Jimin is just looking at you. Embarrassment sinks in, your cheeks begin to burn red, and your head feels unbearably heavy.

“I’m sorry,” You unsteadily stand to your feet, holding on to the counter for leverage. Jimin watches you from the doorway as you turn the sink on to brush your teeth. When you finish, you lean against the counter, too ashamed to look at him, let alone the mirror.

“I’m sorry, you probably think I’m crazy, I didn’t mean to-...” You pause when he walks toward you. He effortlessly lifted you into his arms and walked you out of the bathroom, despite your protests.

“Jimin, p- put me down...” He doesn’t give in to your low request, instead, he holds you tighter and continues to walk you to your bed.

Jimin will always take care of you, always. It doesn’t matter what you look like, what you do, he grabs and puts you right back in bed. The plush mattress welcomes you as he eases you down to the corner near the nightstand. He pulls the blanket over you, and you can tell that he’s really worried because he doesn’t have that slight smile he normally has. You just saw Jungkook, you got to see the man you’ve been longing for, he wasn’t expecting a relapse like this. You’re blinking slowly and staring at nothing in particular. He was about to walk away but you grabbed his wrist to keep him from leaving your side

“I left him...He was crying, he didn’t want me to go, I didn’t want to go...” You push the covers off of you and curl up, pressing your knees to your chest. “I shouldn’t have gone...”

“I thought you wanted to see him? I wanted you to be happy and it seemed like you were but now...” He sits on the edge of the bed, looking down at you pouty lips and watery eyes. “Now you’re-”

“Now I’m alone.” You pipe up, tears tumbling down your cheeks. “And I just want him more...and it hurts even more.”

Jimin is no stranger to the feeling of loneliness.

That’s why he understands your pain better than anyone.

“You’re not alone,” he said, trapping you with an arm on each side of you. “I’m right here.”

“I know but...” You reach a hand up to cup the side of his face and his heart began to beat faster—what is happening. “But you’re not Jungkook...”

For some reason, he doesn’t say anything but his eyes look heavy, and you can practically see the gears turning in his head. He dips his head down and kisses the corner of your lips lightly, so lightly that you barely registered that he did it. He leans down again to press his forehead against yours, letting his eyes fall shut.

Your eyes widened and you freeze, not knowing what to do.  He shouldn’t have done that, this isn’t a good idea, but he takes your silence as an invitation to do what he’s wanted to do for the last few days. He kisses you again, but this time it’s a real kiss, movement and all. He melts at how your lips are really as soft as they look, how you don’t completely oppose his actions. The room is completely silent aside from small sounds and his deep inhale. 

This is the last thing you thought he’d do. He’s pressing against your lips, velvet draping touching you in a heavenly way. He tongues at your lips, making a chill run up your spine. You squeeze your eyes shut, trying to convince yourself that this is okay, that this isn’t Jimin trying to make you feel some type of way. You know he would never do anything to hurt you, he would never hurt you... It’s only after he pulls away with an audible smack, that he sees the alarm etched in your furrowed brows and your glistening lips. You’re scared.

He recoils immediately. “I'm sorry, I just-...I won’t do that again, I’m sorry.” He mutters, getting off of you. “I don’t know why I did that-”

“I- it’s okay, um,” You feign a small smile, trying to convince him that you’re not as uncomfortable as you look. “I think you should go, Jimin...”

You had never asked him to leave before.

When you turn on your side, he gets up and quickly leaves your room. Guilt settles into his stomach and his lips tingle with the regret of his sin. Did he want to do that to you? Or was it just the lust of the flesh? Because you were out of it, you were confused as to why he did it. Sure, you two have touched and stuff but he’s never kissed you, that’s one thing he told himself he wouldn’t do. Because kissing you meant something—if he kisses you it has to mean something.

On his way back to his room, he hears a creaking noise. In the darkness, his eyes dart to the window, thinking that that’s where the noise was coming from and he slowly approaches it. It’s cracked open and he lifts it to peek over the ledge.

He nearly jumps out of his skin when he sees Taehyung staring up at him.

“What the hell are you doing?!” Jimin pulls Taehyung up by the collar so that his upper body is through the window but he easily throws his legs over the windowpane so that he is standing face-to-face with Jimin.

“Not so loud,” He keeps his voice low while holding up his index finger, “I’m not trying to let the whole compound know I’m here.”

“You could get killed over here.”

“Yeah, I'll take my chances.” Taehyung walks past him and ventures to what he believes to be the kitchen. “You guys have a nice place, Yoongi hyung has good taste.” He opens up the fridge and Jimin is beyond confused.

“Why are you here Tae?” Jimin closes the refrigerator but Taehyung just swipes an apple from the dish on the counter instead.

“Where’s Jin?”

“I don’t know-” Why is Taehyung asking the questions? “Wait, you still haven’t answered my question! Why are you here?”

“I don’t think that really matters. You did your fair share of visiting us when Jungkook’s girl was around, but she’s with you all now. So, I guess there’s no reason to visit us anymore...huh?” He turns from Jimin to walk off to the staircase.

“It’s not like that.” Jimin persists. “She’s Jin’s little sister, I had to make sure she was safe, that’s it.”

Taehyung walks upstairs with urgency and into that hall that leads to what he believes is Yoongi’s office, and he’s right. Jimin doesn’t understand why Taehyung is here, and so casually at that like he’s just dropping by to say hello. Just when Tae grabs the doorknob, Jimin blocks the door with his body, keeping Taehyung from entering. They have somewhat of a stare-off.

“Leave, Tae. Yoongi’s not in there.”

“I know that. I’m not here for him.” Taehyung tries the door but Jimin grabs his wrist, painfully tight. “Relax,” He detaches Jimin’s handle on him, “I’m just looking for a document.”

“What document?”

Taehyung smiles, head tilting. “I can’t tell you that.”

“Then you can get the fuck out of here.” Jimin seethes. “Go, before I have to escort you out myself.”

“Ok, ok, I’ll go.” He holds his hands up in surrender, that same smile still present on his face. But that simper quickly turned into a devious look. “But...not before I go say hi to Y/n, I think she’s missed me.” 

With that Taehyung takes off in a sprint and Jimin is quick to bolt off after him.

Jimin catches him right before he can even touch your doorknob and Taehyung is dying of amusement, not bothering to keep his laughter at bay. He’s always gotten a crack out of fucking with Jimin.

“W- woah,” He holds Jimin’s arm that is currently wrapped around his neck in a chokehold, “w- what’s the big d- deal? Someones a little jumpy.” Tae coughs.

“Shut up and get out, before I call someone up here to beat your ass.” They both know that’s just a bluff.

“But-” He coughs for air but manages to pull away from Jimin. “But deep down inside, you think she’s yours, or you want her to be at least.”

“What’re you talking about?” Jimin turns around, pushing his hair from his forehead in frustration.

“She’s messed up,” Tae leans on the wall beside your door, eyes focused on his hyung, “don’t get attached.”

“She’s been hurt, she’s not ‘messed up’. If you were thrown into his hell you’d be the same way.” Jimin defends you.

“You overcompensate for her. Just by the way you talk about her, I can tell.” He states with not a doubt in his mind. Jimin, on the other hand, is caught off guard—he stares at Tae, not really knowing how to respond. “You feel guilty and you try to be something for her. That’s not a safe move my friend. Jungkook doesn’t like that kind of stuff, you know that.”

“So what.”

“’So what?’” He scoffs. “You really think you mean something to her...She’s a user—tell her you’ll keep her safe, and at this point, there’s not a lot she won’t do for you. But it’s not just that, she’s selfish too, and Jungkook falls for it. She wants what she wants, but she can tell him no if she doesn’t like what he wants. God forbid he tell her no, all hell will break loose...”

“It’s not that easy.” Jimin cuts him off, walking up to him to stand eye to eye with him. “That’s just your problem, you think everyone is as simple as your little mind games, but they’re not.”

“My ‘mind games’ as you like to call them, aren’t simple at all. In fact, those exact same tactics you call ‘simple’ greatly contributed to what made her what she is today.”

“And what is she?”

“She’s exactly what hyung wanted, she’s got all of the qualities that’ll drive Jungkook insane.” His casual tone is borderline unnerving. “It’s funny to watch.”

“What did you do?”

“Namjoon told me to make sure she remembered that it was her fault she ended up getting tortured, the reminders are all over her now.” Jimin thinks to what he might be referring to—your scars. The ones you always cover and the ones he saw on your thighs earlier tonight, those are Taehyung’s doing.

“That was you? You’re fucking sick...” Jimin murmurs to himself. “None of this crap is her fault, she doesn’t deserve to be caught up in this shit. Life is screwing her over and it’s not because of anything she did-”

Jimin falls silent when they hear the creaking sound of your spring mattress. The sound isn’t heard anymore after a few seconds and they deem that you had stopped stirring.

“It’s not her fault but her family’s in it,” He grins, “that means she is too, she’s in too deep.” He sighs, eyes roaming in contemplation.

“What?”

“Do you feeling something for her, Jimin? Hm? Do you kiss her?” Tae stared at him, expression unwavering from the blank one he’s had for some time now. “Like, on her lips and where ever else.” He giggles at the way he said that.

Jimin hopes the heat coming to his face is undetectable. He stammers, “W- what kind of question is that-”

“It’s a simple question.”

“No, I don't.”

“Hm.” Tae shrugs, his nonchalant air coming back. “It was just a question, I mean, you spend a lot of time with her and you have a past with women, one would only assume that something was going on between you two.”

“Just leave, Taehyung.” Jimin just stared at him, waiting for Taehyung to get off the wall and go on his way, “seriously.” Taehyung walks back to the window of which he came, and without a word, he slipped out and Jimin promptly closed it behind him

He stands in front of the window, chewing on his bottom lip until he hears a door creak and his head snaps back.

“Jimin, who was that?... I heard someone outside the door...” You stand there, looking slightly spooked and all he wanted to do was crawl into the center of the earth and burn because his feet began to bring him toward you.

“It’s okay, everything's okay, just- Just go back to bed...” He looks stressed and you pick up on it instantly. He ruffles his hair, and he won’t look at you directly, you frown. Slowly, you walk towards him to dimish space between you two and he still won’t look at you.

“Jimin,” You’re all in his personal space, just staring up at him, “what’s wrong? You can tell me...” You grab on to his arm lightly and he pulls away.

“Nothing, go back to bed.” He sighed, irritation gradually building up in his tone of voice.

You frown even deeper because his tone wasn’t as sweet as it often is. You reach for his hand. “B- but-”

“I said go! Just go back to sleep, will you?” He snapped all of a sudden and that was enough to scare you off. When you scurry off into your bedroom and shut the door, he instantly regrets snapping at you like that. But just when he tries to walk into the room, he realizes that you locked the door.

He gave up on asking you to let him in and opted to go to his own room, 

where he should have been this whole time.

-Flashback-

“He was loved by so many. He was a friend, a brother, a husband...A father. And- And he will be missed dearly.”

It was raining, not a hard rain, just misty—it felt that even the weather prepared for the funeral. His daughter seemed unusually detached like she had cried all she could and now she’s run out of tears.

The preacher of the funeral told her that she was strong and then looked at me. People were saying kind comforting things to me, but mainly her. The guests were leaving and I had somewhere to be so I was about to leave to but I stopped. She stood in front of the coffin that had already been lowered. I walked up to her, a white rose in my hand as well as her.

“He didn’t deserve this...” You uttered lowly. “This never should have happened...”

I glance at her, then back to the silver coffin. “Yeah...But we all have to go some time, unfortunately.”

“Dad, right before they pulled me away from him, he told me to tell you that he was sorry.” She turned to me, eyes looking sad but somewhat content. “And that he loves us...” I was prepared to hear something like that and it actually comforted me. I love my father, there’s no denying that, but every father and son have their quarrels.

“At least we can say goodbye to him together, I know he’s happy about that...”

She extends her hand and for a moment she just waits. I get the cue to give her my hand and this is the first time we’ve ever held hands. And in that very moment, something deep down inside of me came to the realization that I had a sister.

We say goodbye and drop the flowers together.

That was the last time we saw each other before that one dreaded night.

*

*

“Jin?…is that really you?”

She looked at me, her eyes so innocent, uncorrupted by the life I live.

“I’m sorry Y/N…I’m so sorry.”

‘Well, we’ll leave you guys to talk. See you later, baby.’ Jimin and Hoseok left the room.

“He was right…you are pretty.” I broke the silence and looked at her with a weak smile. “He wanted me to come and see you but I’d always say no…”

*

*

Jin shakes his head, settling to push those thoughts aside as he straightens his hair in the mirror, preparing to face the day looking his very best. The stunt he and Wei pulled went perfectly. Now everyone knows who killed Hakyeon and the fire isn’t under him anymore, but his guard is still very much up.

But there’s a lot of good in all of this. Jaebum has become an ally, quite an essential one at that. His enemies are closer then they’ve ever been and it’s just a matter of time before his plan becomes reality. He’s staying the night at one of his personal condos for reasons that are quite obvious, Wei needed a place where he and Jin could work closely with the details of the end goal. After the stunt they pulled, Wei won’t be able to show his face around there. But that’s a small price to pay to keep Jin’s name in the clear, just a little longer.

He tilts his head in thought, he needed to talk to you and tell you that you're coming with him when this is all done. But more importantly, he needs Jimin to fill him in. He’s Jin's eyes and ears right now, if he needs to know something about Hoseok, Yoongi, or even you, Jimin will know something. But oddly enough, Jimin hasn’t been answering his calls, his messages, nothing. He can’t imagine what that’s about, but he’ll have to worry about it later.

“Ready? Jin?” Wei knocked on the door.

“Yeah,” He opened the door, “let’s go.”

Wei nodded as Jin walked past him and down the small flight of stairs, off to one of the cars in the garage. Soon they were in their respective cars and on the road. After about fifteen minutes, Jin started to read through the messages about the plan on his phone and that’s when he decided he should call Wei.

Wei picks up.

“Hello?”

“Hey, make sure you talk to the rest of the guys and I’ll contact you throughout the day to update you. I’m going to meet with Jaebum for a little while to go over what we’re about to do.”

“Jin, what about the FBI situation? It’s been all over the news that they’re getting involved, do you think they suspect us?”

Jin sighs. “It’s not likely. They know we have something to do with it but they’ll never pinpoint it to me. When I sent Jimin off with a team to get Jungkook and my sister, they planted bombs there too and the building went up in flames. Two explosions, two gangs, they’re catching onto what’s happening. It’s only a matter of time before it all boils over and we’ll be at the forefront of it all.”

“I hope so, I’ll talk to you later.”

Jin makes a sound of agreement and hangs up.

After some time, he arrives at the lounge, gets out of the car, and makes his way inside. He’s not surprised to see that Jaebum is already here, anxiously waiting. His eyes drift over to Jin who steadily approaches him, confidence in every step he makes.

“Jin.” 

Jaebum addresses him first, giving him a small bow.

“How was your drive down here? I know it’s a ways from your base.” Jin ushers a waitress over to get him something to drink.

“It was fine.” He lifts his glass, taking a much-needed sip before looking up at his senior.

“Good. Well, let’s get right into it, shall we?” Jin pulls a sheet of paper out of his blazer and places it flat on the table. “Yoongi and I haven’t been on the same page these days. I’ve made some decisions and choices for the greater good, but he doesn’t see it yet, he might not ever.”

“So, this is all you? Min doesn’t know anything about this?”

Jin shakes his head. “Oh God no, Yoongi and I aren’t on the same page right now. Anyways, did you send the last shipment?”

“Yes, I sent it last night, should arrive sometime today.”

Jin beams. “Perfect.”

“Can I ask, why do you need more? I mean, I thought you had access to sellers from all over.”

“Those purchases are tracked. If I buy from the black market, who knows what they’ll do with my receipts. Now getting supplies from you is untraceable, I have to be smart about this.”

“So, in your message, you said you want the shipment delivered by a third party, none of my men?”

“Exactly.”

Jaebum had wondered why Jin wanted him to be so hands-off about getting this stuff to him. Of course, he understands the need to stay off the grid. But he can’t help but wonder, why does Jin seem more interested in what he has—rather than Jaebum as an ally. But the thought crosses his mind as Jin explains more of the plan in the background of his internal monologue, I’m I being used?

“Wait, wait, why? Jin, it sounds like you want my material but not the help of my organization as a whole. My men, they’re smart, they know what it takes to get jobs done and it just seems like you’re overlooking that. What are you planning to do with the shipments?”

The air shifts.

Jaebum can tell by the way Jin rolls his shoulders and eyes darken.

“Does it matter?”

“Hell yeah, it matters. It’s my money, my resources, I should know what it’s being used for, shouldn’t I? I deserve to be front in center with this.”

Deserve?

“I hate to have to break this to you so soon, I thought we’d be able to keep up this little relationship for a little while longer but you’ve already made your opinions and what you believe you’re entitled to pretty clear...” He sighs, rubbing his chin in thought. “Jaebum, do you know who you are?”

“Of course I know who I am, what does that have to do with anything?”

“I don’t think you really know who you are. Im Jaebum, son of one of the richest men in the city. You were born with a silver spoon up your ass and this life was handed to you, so don’t ever think that you did anything to get where you are. All the power you have, you did nothing to deserve it. The rest of us busted our asses trying to make it by, but you? You didn’t have to do shit. Yet, you bitch more than the whole mafia combined about shit that you don’t even really understand, and never will.” He scoffs, tone already past condescending. “And you blame me because my father had something to do with your father's death, do you know how pathetic that is?” 

Jaebum stares at him completely caught off guard and quite frankly about to lose his cool. Did Jin really just pull a 180 and flip on him? He’s one of the many victims to fall prey to Jin’s betrayals.

“Oh yeah, and don’t think I forgot about you kidnapping my sister and torturing her aunt all just to get to me.” Jin seethes. “Do you know how fucking difficult it is to pretend to not care that you are the bastard who dragged her into this? You are the reason Yoongi traded her off to Namjoon and now she’s screwed for life. And even after you managed to send your people out to get her back, you still didn’t realize you had lost. You’re not essential to anyone Jaebum, especially not me. I just happened to need you for one reason, and now that I have what I need, I don’t really care what happens to you.” Jin stands to his feet.

Jaebum doesn’t even know how to respond, he looked like all the blood had left his face. He stands as well. “H- How dare you...How dare you speak to me like this! You come to ask for my resources and then disrespect me like- like-”

Jin cuts him off by pulling him forward by the upper arm. “You think you’re so deserving, it’s sickening...And that’s why nobody in this damn country will ever give you the respect you want.”

The only thing Im Jaebum has ever deserved is an ass whooping. He is one of the most well-off gang leaders in this city and it’s all inherited. Jin may have worked and learned from his father, but everything he has? He went out and got it himself, so did a majority of the other gangs in the country. Nobody deserved power less than Im Jaebum, that was a well-known fact. 

By stating that he was entitled to anything Jin has worked for—it rubbed him the wrong way.  

This mission has lasted a total of two years. 

Two years of forming relationships, compiling information and evidence in the mafia world. He’s been the middle man between Min Yoongi and Kenneth Yu for years now and he’s received unprecedented amounts of money to do favors for both of them. And he’s done it. He’s kept bad people out of jail, he’s given Yoongi top secret files, there's so much that he’s done that could compromise his integrity. Junghyun is also a big part of this but Seo doesn’t have anything on him. He does have people giving him information but he can’t figure out who those people are. Junghyun is preparing to campaign for Kenneth's position as director of health and welfare. He wants him to find Jungkook, Seo has a good idea as to why.

“Okay...” He sighs, sipping his coffee in order to stay alert on this busy morning.

Seo walks out of his office and the police department cubicles are all filled with workers and cops are coming in and out. 

“Officer Kim Suho, and officer Lee Donghae. Can you two come to my office please?” Seo caught the eye of both of them and they quickly dropped what they were doing to see what their chief needed.

“Yes, Chief?” Lee comes in first and Kim follows right behind.

“Close the door please.” Suho gives him an odd look but does it anyway. They both watch as Seo closes the blinds, that means whatever he’s about to tell them is important.

“What’s going on, Chief?”

“Listen, I’m telling you both this because I trust you two, you should know about this first,” Choi walks behind his desk and to his board, “before I let the whole Department know.”

Seo flips the board around and the two officers slowly approach it.

“Wh-” Lee furrows his brows, “What is this Chief?” He inspected all the papers and little bags pinned to the board. There are papers and Min Yoongi’s name is all over it, along with Kim Namjoon, Jeon Jungkook, Jeon Junghyun, Kenneth Yu—most of these names are familiar to him.

“The department is buzzing about the explosions in those gang territories, the FBI is now involved, and the mafia activity has been more rampant than ever.”

Officer Kim Suho reads over the first news article he sees, ‘Suspected Terrorist Attack?’ Then another, ‘Who Are The Masterminds Behind Attacks, Why Are They Still Slipping Through KPD’s Fingers?’ Then another, ‘Alleged Mafia Member on the Run From Seoul General Hospital.’ The articles go on and he diverts his gaze to Seo. ‘Cha Hakyeon, Drug Dealer, Found Fead in Apartment.’

“I know it’s said that we don’t have exact names, but I do. Min Yoongi, he’s the big baller. He’s been able to stay under the radar for the longest but I know him. For years now, I’ve been the middle man between him and the law. Min has money all throughout the system, there are people in high places that know him and fear the damage he could do if any of them were to test his hand. He’s a drug lord, yes, but he’s got his hands in a lot of places.”

“Chief, how does he trust you? You’re a cop.”

“I’ve proven myself. I’ve been able to get several of his men out of jail, keep him informed of the political activity that might affect him, and keep his name out of the media. I’ve done some risky things just to maintain that relationship...But it’s all worth it. Nobody knows this but me, but Kenneth Yu, director of Health & Welfare, is married to Yoongi’s mother. In order to keep her safe, Yoongi doesn’t interact with her or associate himself with her.”

The officers look askance.

“What?... Kenneth Yu is involved in this?”

“Min uses her as a threat to keep Yu from exposing him. And to keep Yu quiet, he’s been sending him money...Me as well. And I’m talking tens of thousands of dollars at a time, and I’ve kept every penny as evidence of bribery.”

Seo points to a picture on the board.

“Kim Namjoon, the arms dealer. He also dabbles in trafficking, larceny, extortion. The two of them used to be one group, they’re feuding right now and it’s getting worse. I can put a stop to it now. I’ve already filled in the FBI and they’re preparing for a STING operation. The debriefing for that is in a few minutes.”

The two officers are at a loss for words. The mafia has always made it difficult for the law to keep things in order. The gang's activity, the amount of contacts and inside people involved makes it almost overwhelming to deal with. After asking their fair share of questions before the officers are dismissed to resume their activities until the debriefing.

After a few minutes of getting his thought together, he takes a deep breath and walks out of his office.

Agents Song Mingi and Lisa Ban.

They’ve already called the men and women, both officers and agents, to the common meeting room and they’re caught up in a conversation with the other agents until they see Seo.

‘Chief, come on over!’ They wave him over, unintentionally bringing attention to the well-respected man's presence. As he walks up to the front, officers are bowing and greeting him as they always do.

“You’re right on time.” Seo shakes both of their hands. “Thank you both for coming, I really appreciate it. It’s not often that we have to arrange STING operations with you all for cases this big.”

“Absolutely, what we’re about to do will change the city and it’s all made possible by you, sir.” Agent Song states. 

“Thank you, chief, for sacrificing your integrity for all these years for the sake of the people. You’re the reason we’ve been able to see what these guys are doing and continue to find ways to put a stop to it.” Lisa adds to the praise. 

“Chief,” Agent Song reaches for the stack of files they brought in and handed it to Seo. “With what you’ve given us over the past few months, we’ve been able to develop profiles on some of these guys and we prepared files for all of them. You probably already know most of this stuff but having it on paper sometimes makes it easier.” 

Seo sorts through them as the agents get everyone's attention. There are files for Kim Namjoon, Min Yoongi, Park Jimin, Cha Hakyeon, Jeon Jungkook, Jung Hoseok, Kim Taehyung, and Kim Seokjin.

“Ladies and gentlemen, I would like to introduce you to Chief Seo, he's going to be running point on this operation. We owe Chief a great deal of appreciation for being able to infiltrate one of the most dangerous gangs in the city. The Chief will debrief you all.” Lisa gives Seo the floor. “Sir?”

“Thank you agent Ban.” He steps to the front and looks out at the crowd. 

“Well, first I’d like to say that this has been a long process of forming relationships, bending rules, and compromising my position all for the sake of weeding out corruption for once and for all. Our plan is to take down gang leaders,” He takes out mugshot-like photos of the leaders and pins them to the board. 

“Kim Namjoon and Min Yoongi. Their groups have been feuding for months, that explains those two explosions. The first was orchestrated by Kim on an abandoned compound but the second was an attack from Min’s side, I believe out of retaliation. Kim’s men are on the run but Min is still in the city, we need to bring him in first. Many of you may know Kenneth Yu, Director of Health & Welfare. I have been the middle man between him and Min, his stepson.”

The room is filled with shocked faces and low murmurs of disbelief.

“I’ve accepted large sums of money as bribery to stay quiet, so has Kenneth Yu. In fact, he’s been sending portions of rally funds, charity events, and government events to Min for years now. He uses their relationship to threaten him more than anything. If it got out that his stepson is a mafia boss who he’s done favors for and accepted money from he’d lose his position in minutes. Before we go after Min, we’ll go after him first. We need to get into his office and see what he has.” Seo pauses, deciding to add all of the photos to the board. “As for Kim Namjoon, most of his men have fled the city but I have a feeling they’ll be back. Are there any questions?”

Multiple people raise their hands and ask questions about the relationship with Min Yoongi, Kenneth Yu, how the feuding started with Kim Namjoon. Seo answers as he sorts through the last few files and stumbles upon a blank one. He continues to talk, but he opens the file and it’s a photo of a question mark. Unnamed female, early twenties, hospitalized after a car accident with Jeon Jungkook but vanished shortly after. 

One of the agents taking notes in the back pipes up. “What about Jeon Jungkook, sir? Since he broke out of the hospital, nobody has been able to get a hold of him. It’s all over the media that he escaped, where is he now?”

“We’re not quite sure yet, but most probably where ever Kim Namjoon is located.” Seo puts the anonymous female on the board and immediately agent Song raises a question.

“Chief, do we have any idea who that might be? We tried everything to find out who she is but we only got little things, it’s like she’s been wiped off the grid.”

“That woman...” He sighs. “I don’t know if she’s the same one, but I believe I’ve seen her with Min Yoongi.”

“Do you think she’s a threat?”

“No, but we’ll look into it, just to make sure.”

Agent Ban comes over with a few agents and officer. “Chief, this is the group that’ll take care of Yu. I’ll leave the organizing of the operation to you.”

“Alright, when do you plan on going in?”

“Within the hour.”

That’s faster than he thought.

“Okay, report to me when the job is done.” Seo dismisses her and she’s off with her team.

“Chief,” Officer Lee calls for him, hand over the bottom of the phone that’s to his ear, “we just got an anonymous tip.”

“About?”

“It’s about Kim Seokjin, he’s supposedly planning a rendezvous at Min’s compound tonight. I thought they were on the same team, should we trust this?”

“Did you track the number?”

“Yeah, nothing. But the guy said he just wanted to make things right, he went on about getting rid of those who shouldn’t be in this city...”

“It’s worth a shot, we’ll get to them either way.” Seo makes his way to one of the head officers. “Gather unit 2 and 7, we’ll head to the compound at 9 tonight.”

Namjoon swats at the back of Taehyungs head. 

“You had one job, one job Tae.”

The papers Namjoons is referring to are the papers Yoongi gets from the court hearings, political meetings, and basically any of the details of his governmental relationships. Yoongi keeps them hidden somewhere and he thought, of all people, Taehyung could find them. But that was a month ago and at this rate, they’ll never get it.

“How many times do I have to say sorry, hyung? I’m sorry, I told you something came up,” Taehyung soothes the back of his head with a gentle ruffle of his hair. “Park Jimin that is. He saw me come through the window and he was fussing about getting me out of there, what was I supposed to do?”

“I get that, but still. Yoongi’s got a ton of inside contracts with those guys and if we’re gonna do this right, it would be nice to have that type of info on him.” Namjoon stands at the table in the basement where he was steadily taking account of the remaining firearms, salvaged from his beloved base that was burnt to ash.

“Jungkook should’ve gone with me, probably would’ve taken care of the Jimin-problem.” he pouts, but they all know that if Jungkook went, and saw you, he’d try to bring you back. And that would only fuel that psychopaths desire to demolish Jungkook for loving you. Namjoon mentally recalls the distress Jungkook experienced once you two were separated, he hadn’t seen him that sad since his mother left him. Jungkook isn’t mentally ready to be in the same vicinity as Yoongi, Jin, and you—that would be a deadly combination.

“He can’t be over there, it’s way too risky. If he decides he wants to take her from their base, that’ll make him an even bigger target then he already is. He’s wanted and Jin, quite frankly, wants to kill him.”

“We will need her back soon though, she’s become essential to Jungkook’s wellbeing and Jin’s insanity.” Namjoon doesn’t further explain his views but Taehyung gets the gist of it. You are the main element of the great divide. Without you, Jin would be way less high-strung, he wouldn’t be so revenge-hungry, but adding you to the mix ignited a flame in Jin. And that tickled Namjoon pink.

Jungkook enters the basement suddenly, all suited up and ready for the day. He’s dressed in a black tee-shirt, charcoal-colored bomber jacket, and heavy boots.

‘Speak of the devil.’ Namjoon simpers but Jungkook either doesn’t hear the comment or simply ignores it.

“Hyung, what’s on my agenda today?” Jungkook’s eyes are focused, but he seems somewhat relaxed. “I thought you would’ve given me my assignment last night.”

“I don’t have anything for you, the best for you to do right now is to stay hidden, we can’t risk exposing you.” Namjoon pats Jungkook shoulder.

“What? You just want me to sit around and do nothing?” He grimaces, getting close to Namjoon’s personal space. “Fuck no, I need to do something, I can’t just sit here.”

“Well,” Namjoon turns to him, unphased by the brittle tone in his voice. “I’m sorry, but you need to lay low for a little while.” Namjoon takes a bit of a firmer tone, and they stare at each other for a few seconds. Jungkook is the first to break it off.

“Fine.”

Namjoon turns to continue his conversation with Taehyung and Jungkook turns a deaf ear to it. He walks over to a corner and slouches in a seat, arms crossed and expression agitated.

“Let’s just scratch that old idea, he probably doesn’t have them anyway.” Namjoon sighs. “Jimin’s probably already told Yoongi so the papers are either under lock & key or he got rid of them, like last time.” He tilts his head in thought.

“Boys,” Namjoon looks back at Jungkook and then looks at Taehyung with a bright smile, “we’re going back to the basics, a classic raid seems to be the answer here.” They haven’t done one of those in a while, it’d be nice to do it like they did back in the day. “We’ll prepare our people, pick a time and go in tonight. If I don’t get to have a base, neither does he.”

“So soon?” Tae interjects.

“Yeah, why not? We don’t have much to lose at this point.” 

Jungkook brows creased as if he weren’t fond of the idea and of course Namjoon knows immediately what that face means. “A raid? But-”

“Jungkook, Jin has Y/n under high security right now, I’m sure she won’t be in the crossfire.”

“Um,” Taehyung interjects, knowing what he’s about to say will surely make Jungkook upset, he giggles, “I wouldn’t call Jimin, ‘high security.’“

Namjoon can’t help but laugh. “What?”

“Yeah, I snuck in on the living quarter's and there he was. Jin can’t be that concerned about her safety, not if Jimin is always with her.” Taehyung pouts, perplexed to see that Jungkook didn’t even bat an eyelash at his statement.

“My suspicions were correct then.” Namjoon shifts to the other side of the table to tally up the last few sets of revolvers.

“Jin’s been off doing his own thing for a while now. But you’d think he’d have his little sister at least in the vicinity with him, right? Especially after going through all of that just to get her back...” He takes the completed register and tucks it in the beige folder. “I’m confused-”

“He doesn’t fucking care about her.” Jungkook pensively got up to approach the two. “This whole, ‘your big brother is here to save you,’ thing is an act. He doesn’t want her to be with me, that’s why he took her, not because of brotherly love. He doesn’t give a fuck about her, he just wants to look like he’s capable.” Jungkook prods at his cheek in annoyance.

“And you know that, how? Jungkook, you didn’t know even know there were brother and sister until just recently—how could you know if he cared about her? You don’t know that-”

“Yes, I do!” Jungkook slams a fist on the table but they're unstartled by the little outburst.

“Fuck! How do you not see it?! He doesn’t want her to be with me, that’s his fucking deal. He wouldn’t give her the time of day until he realized who she was with.” He gets closer to Namjoon, eyes beady, vicious and unsettling. Oddly, Namjoon looks at him as if this type of behavior is a part of their normal everyday conversations.

”He knows I love her, and he hates me for it. He parades around like she means so much to him, she means more to me than she ever will to him. I’m sick of sitting here and pretending like just because she’s with him, she’s safe, that’s not the case. I can’t fucking take it, if I have to go one more week without her I think I’m gonna fucking lose my mind.” Jungkook rambles on, pacing and spouting whatever thoughts come to his mind so Namjoon figured now would be a good time to cut this off. 

Jungkook grits his teeth. “And if it wasn’t for fucking Min Yoongi-”

“Stop. You need to take it down a notch.” Namjoon’s voice is low but demanding of submission, of which Jungkook gives in a mere few seconds.

“You don’t know everything so stop fabricating these scenarios in your head. Use your head and think about this, why do you think I fucking took her in the first place, Jungkook? To piss him off. They may not be close, but she’s his only known his flesh and blood right now, he does care, even if it’s only for her life, that’s enough to use against him.” Jungkook backs down from his aggressive stance, diverts his gaze reluctantly. Namjoon would have a sensible explanation for this, wouldn’t he? Jungkook got so caught up in the idea that this is all a tactic to hurt him that he forgot that this is a lot bigger than his relationship.

“Don’t misunderstand, I do need her back with us. She’s what I use to hurt him, at least I thought that up until now. Either way, Jin knows what he did fucked us all over and Yoongi doesn’t seem to be taking any disciplinary action.” He walks up to the stairs and the two follow closely behind him. “So now it’s time for us to take action.”

Jungkook leaves the two of them without a word, most probably to sharpen some knives in the room or work out, something to take his mind off of things.

“Tae, you know what you need to do, just report back to me as soon as possible. As for Jungkook,” Namjoon sighs, “tell him not to leave the premises, and that if I hear he tries to go out, he can forget about being apart of the raid.” Namjoon heads off to do his own thing and Tae trails off to Jungkook’s bedroom. Taehyung entered the bedroom and Jungkook was sitting on the floor, a dozen daggers on the floor in front of him as he takes out the tools to sharpen and clean them.

“Jungkook,” Jungkook shoots him an uninterested glance. “how do you know that Jin and his sister are fighting?”

“What?”

“You said they were fighting. You haven’t seen her for weeks now, how could you know if they were fighting or not?”

He swallows, avoiding eye-contact. “I just know.”

“But you’ve never even seen them interact, you don’t know the temperament of their relationship.” The more Taehyung pries, the more Jungkook’s face twists in irritation. “You went to see her...Didn’t you?”

It’s obvious in his eyes, no sense in hiding it.

“Yeah, I did...”

“How did that go?”

“She doesn’t want to be there. You should see her, she’s not as healthy as she was, it’s obvious that she’s not eating...I don’t know where her head is, it’s like she’s there but she’s missing something...God, I want her back so bad. I can tell Jimin is getting in her head too, she was going on about how he helps her in difficult times and all that, it makes me crazy to think that she’s always alone with him...I didn’t want to upset her because she’s been through a lot but I asked her if anyone touched her, she didn’t really answer...” Jungkook’s tone was heavy with concern.

“Jungkook, I wasn’t going to say anything but-...Well,” Taehyung bites his tongue. “when I got there, Jimin was leaving her room. Out of curiosity, I asked him if he feels something for her, he said no but-...I don’t know, Jimin falls back into those pathological liar tendencies every now and then. And he savors intimacy, with most women...”

Jungkook’s stomach twisted.

“He fucking wouldn’t. Not unless he wants me to kill him, he wouldn’t touch her.”

“How can you be so sure?” Tae pries.

Jungkook snaps. “He’s the one who brought her to me.”

Early this morning, Junghyun bid his wife farewell, pulled out of the driveway of his beautiful home, and went on his way to work. If you look at Junghyun’s life compared to his little brother, he lives quite a wholesome lifestyle. He has a beautiful wife, an adorable set of 6-year-old twins, a great job, and a nice home—what more could he want? You’d be surprised.

It’s around lunch time and he’s going to meet with a special person. He pulled out his reserved parking spot in the hospitals private parking garage. It’s been a while since he’s heard from Seo about Jungkook but he knows he’s still wanted. It was odd though. He personally asked Seo to find Jungkook for him but he’s suspected that his request wasn’t a priority right now.

As soon as he stopped at a red light, he sat down and made a phone call. It rang for a few seconds before he finally picked it up.

“Dr. Jeon, good morning.”

“Good morning Donghae, any updates?”

“Chief Seo gathered us all for a debriefing this morning, he said Jungkook is most probably with Kim Namjoon.”

“Damn, I guess I can forget about getting him back. He sees that man as more of an older brother than me...It’s fine, I’ll try to contact him eventually. I heard from a reliable source that something bad is about to happen, he’s probably involved in it.”

“Yeah, I’m actually apart of the STING operation of his rival gangs compound, he might be there.”

“Oh really?” Junghyun grins, turning his wheel into the restaurant parking lot. “Perfect, let me know everything after it happens.”

“Will do, I’ll talk to you tonight.”

He hangs up just in time for Junghyun to head inside of one of his favorite lunch places. When he walks inside, he immediately sees her sitting at a table near the window and smiles. She grew out her hair he noticed, she looked beautiful, healthy, and her overall aura was glowy.

When she looks up and sees him, she smiles from ear-to-ear.

“Junghyun.” She stands to her feet and walks toward him. “How are you, honey?” She wraps her arms around him and he returns her adorably light embrace compared to his.

“I’m fine Eomma,” He pulls away, “you look beautiful.”

They both take a seat. “Thank you, sweetie. This is so nice, I haven’t been able to just sit and talk with you for a little while.” A waitress kindly brings them ice water and lunch menus. It doesn't take them long to choose their dishes so they order it right before the waitress leaves.  

“How are my grandbaby’s doing? Does Joy still look like me?”

“Every day, and Jungwoo? You wouldn’t believe how much he’s starting to favor Jungkook.” Junghyun sips his water, eyes skimming the wine menu. “It’s crazy

He expression saddens a bit at the mention his Jungkook, and he notices. “What’s wrong?”

“Nothing, I-...I haven’t heard from him in a long time...I miss him.”

“I actually saw him not too long ago, he came to the hospital.”

Her eyes widen. “Really? Was he hurt?”

“He was in a car accident, with a girl.” He sighs, remembering how well that meeting went.

“A girl?” She can’t help the smile coming to her face. “Oh my goodness...He has a girlfriend?”

“He told me that he’s not telling me anything about her so I assume that she was his significant other.” He scoffs.

“Aw, that’s sweet...” She lowers her head, mind wandering off into dreamland as she wonders who fell in love with her son. She sighs. “So, um, hows your campaign going?”

“It’s great, I really think I have a shot at the position. I have a feeling that-...” He takes a bite of food, eyes finding the news channel on the TV in the background. His mother looks back too upon his sudden silence. 

‘Early this morning, adored political figure and Director of Health & Welfare Kenneth Yu, has been theorized to be in cohorts with leaders from the mafia world. It’s not yet been confirmed, but It’s speculated that he has been receiving and sending money from these groups. We will be updating this story every hour so stay tuned.’

One down. 

To be continued...

[remus-whoisleft]

(it’s only) teenage wasteland | order recruitment | self-para

Remus wasn’t quite sure what he was expecting of the exit interview, to be honest.

A frank and earnest discussion about his time at Hogwarts? His successes and failures, both as a student and a Prefect? Where he saw himself in five years and how much that had to do with his tenure at the castle?

Well. Maybe the last one ended up being fairly close to correct, though in five years he’d look back and perhaps think it was less his educational career and more his proximity to Albus Dumbledore explicitly.

But that was not right now.

Hands folded in his lap, fingers laced to prevent his natural tremor exacerbated by the strange nerves that had followed him into Dumbledore’s sprawling, usually comforting office. One thumb anxiously traced the knobby crux of a scar on the back of his other hand, and he stared steadily into the Headmaster’s sparkling blue eyes on the other side of the man’s grand desk.

No, he wasn’t quite sure what he was expecting. He knew he wasn’t expecting what his hero - savior, really - had just said to him.

Remus’s mind whirred, seventeen or so different lines of thought branching off into fully formed disparate potential responses; he would have kicked himself for going with the most obvious one, but he hardly felt in control of that.

“The Order of - ?”

“The Phoenix, yes.” Dumbledore’s gaze flickered, as if amused, towards the perch where Fawkes sat watching the both of them, brilliant eyes and feathers so red he could be burning. “Not my name choice, but I cannot disagree that it fits.”

The Order of the Phoenix. A group of carefully selected witches and wizards working quietly, swiftly, to fight back against the people in masks currently terrorizing the wizarding world. Trying to scale back the damage being done, holding back the tide of what was certainly shaping up to be a full-fledged war before the year was done. 

“Sir, I - “ Remus stopped, blinked.

“I am not expecting an immediate answer from you, Remus. This is not a decision I want anyone making lightly.” 

Remus nodded, eyebrows furrowed, heart racing.

Relax, he told himself. It’s not every day you get asked to join a clandestine group of guerrilla agents fighting literal masked bad guys. 

“That said,” Dumbledore continued, making a steeple of his fingers and resting his chin lightly upon their points. “I did not make this decision lightly, either. Not of who I plan to ask, who I have been watching for years. The Ministry and the Daily Prophet cannot hold back all the bad that is happening in the world, but they are certainly trying their best. What you read in the paper, what you see with your own eyes - a fraction of what is really happening out there, Remus.”

Remus swallowed heavily, throat dry, eyes wide. But he nodded, glued to every word; as he always was. 

“It is not a safe thing I am asking you to do, Remus. And that pains me. But I would not ask if I did not think you could handle it. If I did not think that you could help me, and all the people who might not be able to help themselves.”

Remus’s heart fluttered, oddly; a missed heartbeat, perhaps, or a simple swoop of exhiliration at Dumbledore’s insistence.

You are important, Remus. This is important. 

“I must ask so much of you, and the others. But we need numbers, we need members like you - your dueling skills are nearly unmatched, and can only get better with the proper training. You are a brilliant student, and everyone in the school knows you for you sheer empathy. I don’t mean to butter you up, Remus, I hope you know that,” Albus smiled at Remus, and Remus smiled back. “But I must make sure you know why I’m offering you this opportunity.”

People are dying - being murdered - for who they are, for things they can’t control, was what seemed to be slipping through the pauses in Dumbledore’s words, emphasized by the look in the old man’s eyes. Your friends are about to go out into that world without a castle to protect them. 

I can protect them, Remus thought wildly. A werewolf fighting to keep the world safe. What could that mean someday?

A softer, darker moment, the anxiety-driven inner monologue whispering to the bitter part of him tucked deep, deep away; but the world doesn’t fight for you, does it?

Remus shook his head, imperceptibly, casting the idea away. It didn’t matter. He couldn’t change the world’s prejudice against werewolves; maybe he could do his part to shift it

Those considerations, all of them, were intoxicating. Another flashed in his head, widening his eyes at the swift revelation.

If Sirius gets asked to join, he won’t hesitate to say yes. And I can’t lose him.

And one more blissfully optimistic thought, to cap it off; Dumbledore is asking me, personally. He wants me to do this. He needs me to do this.

And he’s done so much for me.

“I want to help,” was what Remus finally managed to say out loud. He blurted it, really, almost unaware that he’d interrupted Dumbledore saying something about and your condition could prove invaluable to our cause. There’d be time to understand that later.

“I want to do what’s right.” He added, more firmly. “I need - some time, to figure everything out, but I can’t just. Sit back and watch this happen.”

Dumbledore nodded, knowingly. Reminded him gently not to speak to anyone else about their meeting, even if he was sure it was someone else the invitation was being extended to.

“Thank you, sir.” Remus said, shakily but true, cheeks flushed a bit and eyes bright as he stood up. “For - for everything. For believing in me. Making sure I actually made it here. For helping me, and - giving me this chance. It means a lot.”

“I know it does, Remus. And I have never once - yes, not even while you are your friends were at the height of your pranking years - regretted fighting for you to come to Hogwarts. I know you’re capable of such incredible things.”

With a quick nod, another blurted out thank you, Remus somehow managed not to trip over his feet as he exited the office. For a moment he stood outside the heavy doors, back against the wood, staring thoughtfully at the stairway below him.

Then, Remus smiled.

[aboutrealestatebiz-blog]

Importance of Renting an Apartment

When the time comes for you to move out or have a place to call your own, deciding between renting an apartment or buying a home is the first major decision you will make.  The benefits of renting an many which is why most people choose to rent instead of buying a home when the time comes to find a place they can call home.  There are a lot of homeowners hassles that will be taken care of if you choose to reside in an apartment instead of buying a home.  Continue reading to learn the amazing advantages of renting an apartment. Choosing to rent apartments in Ghana instead of buying a home is a better decision financially; you will be locked into paying high mortgage fees monthly as the rent is considerably lower. Additionally, renting an apartment means you are not locked in to a mortgage; you have the freedom and flexibility to pack up and leave without worrying about selling a property.  When you are buying a home you will need a down payment along with home inspection and appraisal among others, however, renting an apartment can provide you with the amenities you need without paying the heavy up-front fees. Shoveling snow or mowing the lawn are maintenance tasks that are taken care of by someone else which gives you peace of mind in addition to saving you both time and money.  You should choose renting an apartment over buying a home because of the amazing amenities you will have access to too; having swimming pools, gyms and laundry facilities on the premises is amazing.  People often stay close to one another in apartment complexes and this helps in enhancing the safety of everyone.   Renting an apartment is advantageous because of its size; they are usually built for convenience with enough square feet to accommodate all your needs comfortably. One of the major benefits of renting an apartment is accessibility; shopping centers, schools and other facilities you might need are often conveniently located close to the apartment complex.  Someone who rents an apartment puts up with less maintenance responsibility and cost of the property leaving them with extra money that can either be invested or saved for a brighter future. Renting an apartment provides you with an opportunity to make life long connections; the close proximity with which people live in an apartment creates a sense of a community and gives you a chance to interact.  Buying a home is an important decision that you cannot take lightly, however, as you work to make your dream of owning a home a reality you will benefit from renting an apartment on short-term.  These are the important reasons why you should consider renting an apartment over buying a home. Visit real estate in Ghana to know  more. 

Catch more details at https://www.britannica.com/topic/real-property

[artificialqueens]

Paris (Trixya) - Lyonne-dlm & Saiphl

Well, we know November is far gone now, and that all of us are really getting into the Christmas mood, but we don’t really care that the Trixyawrimo is over now, we took one of their prompts, put into our beloved Soulmate AU, and added a pinch of Christmas Vibe, poured some ice and shook it.

Here is the result, and we hope you like it as much as we enjoyed writing it.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS EVERYONE!

PARIS (Trixya) - Lyonne-dlm & Saiphl

Almost five years have passed since Katya and Trixie finally found each other on that art gallery, five years fully charged with the best memories and moments built by the two of them. From the perfectly awkward shared milkshake in the closest diner to the gallery where they met, to Trixie’s first concert. From moving in together and Katya’s weird style of decor, to their meticulously planned wedding, with the perfect flowers and the princess dress that Trixie had always dreamt about.

Katya still thought Trixie was her personal miracle, the only reason to keep her going; the only woman that could make her want to wait for her down the aisle all dressed in white and still cry each time she watched the video of the magical moment when they swore to love each other forever.

Trixie was holding an iron grip on Katya’s hands, looking intensely to her ice blue eyes, when they finally were allowed to say their vows. Katya cleared her throat and started talking. “Trixie, I’ve been drawing you since i was 16. I grew up watching you smile in my dreams. My heart broke when I saw you cry and I fell in love with you.” She sighed deeply, trying to keep her voice steady.  “All those years before meeting you and when I was 27, I finally got to meet you for the first time in the gallery, got to Kiss you for the first time, got to hear your voice, know your name and to touch you.”, a soft smile spreaded on Trixie’s lips by the memory of that first moment, when she heard the raspy voice live. “I needed to, I had to make sure you were actually there.” Katya lifted a hand to touch Trixie’s face, still in disbelief of her being real. “I know that after you find your soulmate you are supposed to stop dreaming about them, but really how could i stop dreaming about you? my dreams are still about you Trixie ,Now i am 29 and i can barely wait one more second to be your wife.” Katya said, finally falling to her own emotion, and smiling fondly to her soulmate.

Shea reached to give Trixie a tissue to clear the tears off her face, still avoiding to ruin her perfectly beated face. Trixie looked at Katya, holding her hands again before saying her own vows. “It took eleven years and like a zillion of messages from Shea to find you, Katya and I have to admit that I was giving up on finding you… “ She said, giving a side look to Pearl, who was holding hands with an impressive brunette girl, who was leaning her head over Pearl’s shoulder. “That’s something I’m not proud of, thankfully, my friends kept the hoping up for me… Thank you Pearlie, Shea… this couldn’t be happening without you.” Trixie said, not looking to her friends, but knowing that was how she felt. “Every night, when I heard your voice saying I love you and good night baby, was the reason to keep moving every single day. I love you Katya… so much, and I can’t wait to be yours, forever.”

Katya’s tears were drawing soft lines on her face, Raja helping her to fix it without releasing their hands holding. They shared an intense gaze, and then kissed when they were allowed to, sealing their everlasting love promise.

Life had been awesome since then, and they were grateful of all the things they got to do and achieve together. What led them to that precise moment, when life changed forever for the both of them. They were taking a long vacation in France, taking their time to discover the country side of the most romantic places of the world.  

Katya was drawing Trixie sitting on a fountain, so concentrated that she was totally foreign to the children playing nearby. “Katya… I need one of those”. Katya kept drawing, not even looking at her, only to pay attention when she felt a soccer ball hitting her leg and Trixie’s. A little freckled boy ran to them, the only brave enough to reach a couple of strangers and talk to them, asking for his ball. Trixie took the toy and gave it back to him, to hear him say “Merci Barbie,” making her laugh lightly.

Katya lifts her face from the sketchbook she was working with “a sketchbook? baby, we have thousands of those at home, but if you need it right now I can give you mine.”

“I need one of those Katya…” Trixie repeated, turning to look her in the eye, barely directing her arm to the group of playing children.

“Oh… oh, a child” Katya says, amused by her wife’s admission, “like, really need it or it’s just hypothetical, like the kid we raised a couple of years back, in our little place in Chicago?” Outraged, Trixie looked at Katya, hitting her arm lightly. she knew fully well they’d only imagined having kids.

“I’m just making sure we are on the same page baby” Katya takes her hand and drags her back to the bench they were sharing. “You know I want to raise a family with you, but you need to be conscious of how it will change our lives.”  Katya looks at her, deadly serious, and saying matter of factly “we won’t be able to travel so often, and also, we’ll have to be… a little bit more discreet with… you know”

Trixie nodded to each point, already picturing herself holding their little bundle. “And will require a lot of time from the both of us, from the search of the donor, going through keeping them alive, to them leaving to college,” She said. Her mind was full of the images of their child riding a bike, going to the first day of school, doing their driving test.

Katya knew the precise moment when Trixie’s mind started going wild on the idea of the baby, and she snapped her back touching her cheek. “Don’t forget the sleepless nights when they get sick,” Katya said, in a kinda dark tone, remembering her own nights of fever along her childhood. “The science projects, the nightmare nights, them knowing their soulmate and when they get a heartbreak.” She continued, still putting over the table their own experience on finding each other. “We are going to have to be in everything and put them first in our decisions. Taking all that into consideration. Do you still want to do it Trix?“

“Yes Katya, I want to hear little steps running in our house, and wake up on sundays to find you painting with our baby,” she continued, her face lighting with the expectation. “I want to bake birthday cakes and plan themed parties… I want to be the mother of our child.”

==================

Months later, they were looking on Trixie’s laptop to the profiles of the sperm bank, trying to find the best option for the donor. After more than three hours and what seemed to be an endless parade of male specimens, Trixie finally found what she was looking for. “There he is Katya, he’s perfect… like perfect”, she said all full of excitement and waking Katya from the tiredness of looking straight to the laptop for so long.

What Katya saw when she looked at the screen, almost made her cackle. “Trixie… he looks like my father when he was young and my mother made sure to get into his pants.” Trixie gasped at that piece of her wife’s story… she hadn’t known before, and didn’t need to know that her-mother-in-law was the one jumping her father-in-law’s bones.

“And you just made him like 25% less perfect with that phrase Katya,” Trixie said humorless, but still liking the guy, who’s profile made him look like the male version of Katya. “Still, I like him, at least his features will help our baby to look like they’re your actual kid.”

Katya smiled fondly at her wife. she was seriously involved with the process of making their family growth happening, and it melted her heart. “You know what? you’re right, I like his face. The only thing that’s really different from me, is that his eyes are a bit of a different color. I think he can be the 50% of our baby that I cannot give.” She kissed Trixie’s temple, and the other blonde clicked the selection button on the page. Their journey was starting.

The following week, they went to an appointment with Trixie’s doctor, who explained them the whole fertilization process, and how they’d have to wait from two to three weeks before knowing if the whole thing had actually been successful and the little one will grow healthy inside Trixie’s womb.

From the day the eggs were put inside Trixie they were both excited and terrified.  Katya taking care of her and driving from her studio, to Trixies job to pick her up and then going back together home. When the time finally came to take the pharmacy tests, Katya was holding Trixie on their bathtub, getting her relaxed with a bath bomb and a silly conversation about how Raja and Manila were finally agreeing on getting married in… four or five years.  They left the tub when the water was getting cold and Katya was the one looking to the sticks of the tests because Trixie didn’t found the bravery to do it by herself.

“We… we made it! There’s a little human cub growing inside you Trix!” Katya yelled excitedly, hugging her wife tightly and lifting her up from the ground.  “We’re going to be moms! I love you baby, so much, SO, SO, SO MUCH!” Katya kissed Trixie passionately and deeply, exactly the same way she’d done it since the very first time.

“My God we are going to be moms!” Trixie said, finally realizing the magnitude of what was happening. “Katya… we’re doing this, like actually doing it”, she breathed heavily. “I love you too, and I love baby cub… and love us all!” Trixie cried, lacing her arms behind Katya’s neck to find balance, she felt her legs so wobbly, that she doubted they could keep her up by themselves.

That same week, they went to the doctor and he confirmed the news, as expected, just one of the three eggs had worked, but it was well positioned and being careful along the first trimester, they would get a perfectly healthy newborn for the first weeks of april of the following year.

The first trimester they lived in constant stress, Katya making Trixie bring her along on walks because she was afraid to let Trixie alone, and cooking herself every meal Trixie ate. Trixie started having a very healthy lifestyle, quitting immediately coffee, wine and what was the most difficult for her to leave: sugary things. Every doctor appointment was a whole event. Those visits fit into a schedule composed of the morning pregnancy yoga routine that both Katya and Trixie performed religiously, then the enriched breakfast and Trixie’s pregnancy vitamins, then getting ready and driving to the doctor’s office.

When they reached the week twelve and they were told everything was going perfect, they were so happy, relieved and excited, that they invited all their friends to share the news about the new member of their family.

“Oh my God! the first one of the next generation, I’m so excited!” Shea said, looking pointedly to Trixie’s womb, trying to make it grow faster by looking at it. “I hope it’s a girl, so we’ll be able to spoil her to death.”

“You bet, I’ll make sure she’s a total brat”, Pearl said, getting a loud cackle from her girlfriend Violet and an annoyed look from Katya. “What? She will be my first niece, I have a moral obligation to spoil her rotten.” Violet nodded in agreement to her girlfriend, who lifted her face proudly to get support from her soulmate.

“Guys, we don’t even know if it’s a girl or a boy,” Raja said lazily, taking a sip of wine to create a dramatic effect to her words. “And we all know that it doesn’t matter what’s the sex of the baby, we’ll going to spoil them rotten, just because we’ll be madly in love with them.” The group of women agreed, and Trixie leaned her head on Katya’s shoulder.

Katya surrounded her with an arm and told  her wife “we’re so screwed… this bunch of crazy women will create a monster that we have to raise to be a good human being.” Trixie laughed at how funny that sounded, because she knew deep inside that their friends will always take care, spoil, and make sure that the little one is safe, that was what family was meant to do. And all of them were family.

==================

October ran faster than they expected, the last thing they were talking about was the diner with their friends, and then Halloween was coming, giving room to a November that Trixie spent melting herself into each one of her cravings. Going from a full pint of Ben and Jerry’s ice cream mixed with candy corn; chocolate flakes and what Katya described as the biggest monstrosity created since the atomic bomb: A Gigantic Burrito drowned in melted cheese and covered with chili, apart of the chili inside.

They started decorating the baby’s room, painting the walls in soft mint green, with some rabbits and bears that Katya painted by herself, spending most of her rare free time on their kid space. Step by step, the room started shaping, first with a wooden crib, which Trixie dressed up with a quilted cover, and Katya installed shelves that would soon be filled with stuffed animals.

One day Katya arrived home with a package that was big enough to require help to be put inside their home. It had been sent by Katya’s mother in Boston, the rocking chair that Katya’s grandfather made when she was born, the last piece of furniture made by the man before passing away. Trixie asked Katya to put it beside the window. “I’ll sing them to sleep there, and I want to breastfeed our kid sitting on that piece of her mom’s story.

December finally came, with a heat wave that no one could actually explain. Trixie and Katya started the Christmas decorations, full of the hot pink Trixie loved so much, and part of the red that actually was a part of Katya’s personality. The little fireplace on their house held a full display of their wedding pictures, and below, a print of the first fuzzy image of their baby. Hung on the mantle were a hot pink christmas stocking with Trixie’s name embroidered in golden letters, and Katya’s all red and also embroidered but in a pearly black color. “I’ll put a hanger for the baby, Trix” Katya said, frowning at the empty space on the fireplace. “It’s their first Christmas, they deserve a stocking in the fireplace.”

“Katya, they won’t be here to open their gifts on Christmas morning, maybe we can wait to next Christmas, so we can actually get Christmas photoshoot and official family greeting cards,” Trixie said. She rubbed the slight curve of her womb that she popped buttons on her top to show off. “Don’t look at me like that, we haven’t even chosen a name for them, we can’t have a nameless stocking in the fireplace… not on my watch.”

It was the day before Christmas Eve when they had their 20th week appointment; Trixie’s bump kept growing, to the point she actually looked pregnant, and she finally got to wear a stupid denim overall that Katya hated, but tolerated because Trixie was very excited to wear it.  “We will know today, you know?”, she said to Katya when they were driving to the doctor’s office. “It’s time to know if we’re having a boy or a girl… I’m nervous baby.”

“Everything will be fine, love. Also we will be better able to decide on a name once we know what sex they are.” They  walked hand in hand to the office, and kept holding hands when the doctor finally let them know the baby’s gender. Both of them cried a stream of happy tears when the words ‘it’s a boy’ came out of their doctor’s mouth.

What followed was the largest argument they’ve had since they met. Trixie was nagging on the idea of a single name, something simple. Katya was spreading some names here and there. None of them actually coming to an agreement until Trixie said. “No Bible names, nothing Jew… please, nothing personal, it’s just I think they’re so common. Also, I don’t want none of those fancy ‘Blake Cinnamon’ thing, I respect our child enough for that matter.”

“Well, what do you think about gender neutral names?” Katya prompted ,”I mean, we don’t know what he’s going to want when he grow up, better to give him a starting point.” Trixie arched a brow, pondering the idea, and finding it endearing. Also, a gender neutral name would be a nice surprise for their friends, who will keep asking what the baby was.

“I’m on it, we’ll make some research at home” Trixie said, giving Katya some room to breathe. They finally had an agreement.

It was close to midnight when Trixie put aside the computer, totally frustrated and looking at Katya as if she had a third eye and palmed fingers. “No Katya, for the hundredth time today, my son will not be named Blake, and that’s a final word.”

“It’s a good name Trix, come on, you can’t just dismiss any friggin option I’m giving. And no, my son will not be named Avery… it sounds awful.”  They looked at each other, fire, annoyance, and tiredness in their respective gazes. “If I didn’t know this baby is a boy, I’d name her Helena… just a face like Helen of Troy would cause such a war between two loving women.”

Trixie snapped her head, looking at Katya. “There it is, we haven’t considered greek names!” Katya looked at her, rubbing her chin and arching a brow in deep thought.

“You know, I’ve been studying the greek myths for the new collection, a reinvention of the classic figures. I’ve just read about the Trojan war, and it all happened because Paris couldn’t keep his hands to himself, and needed to kidnap Helen to him.” Katya explained, making Trixie huff in annoyance. “The point is, I guess Paris is a good name, like… gender neutral, and also will always remind us of the time we decided to become his mothers, as we were in France when we decided it to happen.”

Trixie nodded, “I guess it’s a good idea, Paris.  Paris Mattel-Zamolodchikova, I really like it Katya.” She leaned to kiss her wife to seal the deal “His name is Paris, and I’ll embroider it tomorrow on his stocking, so he will have a proper presence in our house.”

“And on his first Christmas” Katya said enthusiastically, then put a hand on Trixie’s belly, who gave a little jump “did you felt that Katya?”, Trixie asked, amused. “Oh… Oh! there it is again, have you felt it?”

Katya’s eyes opened wide, looking from Trixie’s face to her hand on her belly. “That’s him. It’s Paris kicking!” The baby kicked one more time, making them excited, happy and teary. “He likes my voice baby, he really likes it.” Katya kissed Trixie once and then bent to talk to the bumping baby  “Hello Paris, I’m Katya, your mom, and she is Trixie, your mommy, and we are very excited to know you’re our boy.”

“And right now, we’re going to bed, cause I know you’re not tired Paris, but I’m exhausted, and you go wherever I wanna go… at least now.” They both laughed, and Katya got off the couch to help Trixie to stand up.

Some minutes later, Trixie was fast asleep, leaning on Katya’s chest, a soft smile spreaded on her lips, before Katya whispered “Good night Baby. Good Night Paris. Merry Christmas. I love you both.”

[toloveawarlord]

Ch. 2

Pairing: Edgar x Iris

Rosanne did not disappoint. While her disapproval of my actions clearly present, she had called in the cavalry. Two other middle-aged women were gathered around me, deliberating on how to proceed. The first thing that they decided had to be addressed was my breasts. A lot of pain came with how tightly Edna was wrapping them. She had experience in helping royals into ballgowns and that required some strength. Corsets were hard to lace up. She blew a strand of hair out of face. “What do you think, Meredith? Will that be tight enough to use with the crystals.”

              Meredith worked as a fairy godmother of sorts. It was a hush hush kind of thing, but for the right price, she could give you crystals that could alter some features slightly. Kind of like draping a mirage over your own body. Completely changing a person’s face or body was impossible, but she promised that it would be enough. “We just have to give you a rougher edge to your jawline, and keep those lady parts nice and hidden, and overall make you give off a presence of manly.”

              Rosanne had been busy making me pants and shirts to wear for any casual occasion. The Red Army uniform that regular soldiers wore would be issued upon arrival. I needed something to wear tomorrow, and Rosanne knew Ian well enough that she could make an outfit that would be most like him. Something casual, a little baggy, but still put together, as I, disguised as Ian, would be begging for a chance to prove myself.

              “Here, dear,” Meredith patted an empty chair. “You’re going to have to sit down for this.” She had a large needle in her hand. It took a moment for me to realize. Ian has his right ear pierced at the top. Thankfully, I had never wanted to do that. Regretfully, that means my first piercing is going to be done by someone other than a professional. “Now, the crystal is easy to pop out so long as you take the back of the earring off. You’ll have to replace it every four days. Since it’s so small, you’ll get more of them from the crystals you’ve bought.”

              The tip of needle poked into the soft cartilage of my ear. I sucked in a breath. The stinging pain that shot through my body as she stabbed me, made me cry out in pain. “Oww. Owww! That hurts!” I complained, gripping the edge of the seat to keep from moving away.

              Meredith laughed lightly. “Iris, you’re going to be training with men much stronger than you. You’ll have to learn to take pain without screaming like a girl. While my crystals can change your appearance, they cannot change your voice. You’ll have to keep your octave a little lower.” Sticking in the earring, she wiped away the little trickle of blood.

              Going over to the mirror, I couldn’t believe my eyes. It was me, but it was Ian. “This is crazy,” I said, touching my chin to see if it was still the same. It felt like my chin and jaw… Running my fingers over my breasts, they were still there but, in the mirror, I couldn’t tell. Magic is awesome.

              Rosanne brought me some black slacks and a tan baggy long sleeved shirt. “Iris, I wish you would reconsider, but I know your pride won’t let you,” Rosanne said, watching me slid the pants on and the sliding a belt through the loops to keep it on my bony hips.

              I smiled at her, giving her a kiss on the cheek. “Thank you for worrying about me, but this is what I was meant to do. Fighting was always my strong suit,” I replied. Ian wouldn’t survive the first week of army training.

              Meredith handed me my satchel and slid the bag of crystal pieces into it. “You need to hurry. The Red Army loves rules, and all recruits must be present by 9AM, right?” She pointed to the clock that read 8:30. We’d been at this all night, and at this rate, I might be late.

              Edna wrapped her arms around my neck. “This material is water resistant, so taking a bath should be alright. Just come see me on your off day and I’ll redo it for you,” she said, patting my back.

              Rosanne and Meredith both hugged me tightly as well, giving more wishes of good luck.

              Setting out to return to the Red Army Headquarters, I had to run through the Central Quarter to make it there on time. Catching my breath just outside of the main gates, a familiar voice came from beside me. It was the Queen of Hearts, Jonah. “You there. You should have already arrived to change into your uniform. What’s your name?”

              Damn. I didn’t even think about that. “Ian Adley,” I replied, getting an immediate frown out of him. With my showing up yesterday, Lancelot probably told him about me and Ian.

              “You finally decided to serve like your uncle before you?” He asked, not believing it. After a moment of uncomfortable silence, he turned on his heel. “This way. King Lancelot will decide whether or not you will be accepted into the Red Army.” He had an arrogant air about him, and he clearly did not like me.

              Moving down the familiar hallways, we passed two others of the chosen thirteen, Zero and Kyle. Zero stopped mid-sentence, staring at me. He stepped into my path, and asked, “Are you Ian Adley?” He squinted at me, like he could see through my disguise.

              “My sister insisted that I at least try,” I replied, keeping my voice even and low. Being Ian isn’t so hard. He’s just a pushover who doesn’t care about the military at all. At least this way I can make myself, well Iris, look good.

              Jonah cleared his throat, standing at the door of Lancelot’s office. “King Lancelot is very busy, soldier.”

              Slipping past Zero, I took a deep breath and entered his office. It’s kind of nerve racking to be back here. The last time he had rejected me so blatantly. Ian wouldn’t be impressive after he insulted the King of Hearts at the dinner. The silence was only broken when I said, “Iris told me what she tried to do, and then smacked me for running away.”

              Those clear blue eyes narrowed at me, and he folded his hands on the desk in front of him. “Yes, I do admire her resolve to take your place.” He stood, walking around the desk and up to me. “It’s because of her that I have made decision to allow you to join the Red Army as a regular soldier. Should you prove yourself to be worth of the title, in a year or two, the position of the Ten of Hearts will be taken into consideration.”

              That means I’m in, right? Schooling my features to keep from smiling at my small victory, I nodded my head. “I understand, King Lancelot.”

              Lancelot moved past me, toward the door. “Jonah will take you to the barracks where you will change and come to first exam. Should any of the officers want to take you under their command, then, and only then, will you be permitted into the Army.” He left with a flutter of his cape and left no room for argument.  

              “It’s unlikely due to your inexperience and the knowledge that you ran away from your duty,” Jonah said before leaving me in a plain barrack room. He’d walked down in front of me, not bothering so much as to look at me. He wouldn’t be on my side.

              The uniform lying on the bed took longer to put on than I imagined, but I appreciated the privacy at the moment. There were actually two beds, making this a shared living space. Difficult to be a girl with a male roommate, but I’ll make due. If everyone knows about Ian, then they’ll have found out that he’s quite strange and oddly girly. It wasn’t a bad quality, and in fact, worked in my favor.

              The clock struck nine just as I slid into the last spot at the very back of the rows of soldiers, all here to join the Red Army. Lancelot stood at the head, speaking about their duty and the training that we would all undergo as new recruits. The chosen thirteen were around him, surveying the men around me. My name being brought up caught my attention. Lancelot’s harsh gaze was back on me, and the group of men moved out from around me. “Ian, since you didn’t find it in your soul to fulfill your duty until just this morning, you will have to defeat our Ace of Hearts in a duel before you are permitted.”

              Great.

[computerrepairssouthbrisbane]

5 Ways You Can Save On Business Class Computers

While it is recommended that businesses buy new laptops and desktops for their needs, small businesses, non-profit organisations and startups will struggle to do this. However, computer problems may be common which can drain your money and time.With top-level hardware is often outside of their budgets, what is your best move? Fortunately, there are some ways that you cansave money on  business class computers your company needs. One of the most common solutions is to buy refurbished or lightly used hardware. 

mac repairs south brisbane

This is a viable option when you buy from a reputable vendor who ensures that the computers will meet the long-term needs of their customers. To get the most from these purchases, you should get a technology expert involved in your hardware decision making. If you are unsure where you should look for discounts on desktops and laptops for your business, there are a few places to start.You should also know the various ways that you can save on these computers. If you want to save money without sacrificing quality, here’s what you need to know.

Tip #1 – Dell Outlet

Any business or organisation that has a tight budget for hardware should head to the Dell outlet. While the stock is not very predictable, you will be able to get some great business-class laptops and desktops are a considerable discount. A lot of the hardware is marked as refurbished and in many cases, this means that they were returned without being used. However, these computers cannot be legally sold as new again. Of course, it is recommended that you have some guidance from a technical professional when picking computers from Dell outlet.

Tip #2 – Apple Certified Refurbished Products

There is a common perception that any Mac will be more expensive than a PC. This is not completely true when it comes to business computers and the actual price difference is much less than you might imagine. Many businesses also find that Macs need less maintenance and will last longer than many Windows machines which provides a long-term saving that you should consider.Of course, a brand-new Mac might not be in your budget. If this is the case, you should look at Apple’s Certified Refurbished products as a way to get a large discount. This is similar to Dell Outlet in terms of product predictability. However, if you have the time and know what you want, you can get a very good deal.This is a simple step used by eCommerce entrepreneur Tierra Alma, she explains “people commonly think a refurbished computer is a damaged computer. In most cases refurbished means a device was returned to the manufacturer after the buyer changed their mind. Selling products online we had to ensure our hardware was up to standard, and we’ve seen the value of refurbished devices time and time again.”

Tip #3 – TechSoup

If you run a non-profit, TechSoup is a great resource for serious discounts on both hardware and software. There are some vendors who have limits on the types of non-profits they offer discounts to on TechSoup. However, all nonprofits should consider this resource when looking for computing hardware.

Tip #4 – Previously Leased Computers

There are a lot of vendors who offer leasing options and will sell their previously leased inventory at a good price. It is important to note that these computers will have some wear and tear. However, they will generally be a good option at a good price when you need the hardware for your business.Choosing well priced hardware can help save money in the long run according to the business loan specialists from Max Funding. They explain “used equipment holds its value in a way that new equipment does not. For those looking to buy computers as part of a business venture, minimising upfront costs and reducing long-term depreciation can make a huge difference in the long run.”

Tip #5 – Vendor-Agnostic Technology Partners

Any business should look at this option regardless of the budget they have for computer hardware. A lot of IT services providers also rely on the profits from computer sales as well as their great services in other areas. The profits they get comes from a heavy alignment with certain vendors.A vendor-agnostic partner is different and will prioritise the service they offer over any hardware sales. These providers are going to be more likely to ensure you think through the hardware you really need.  They will also not push one vendor’s products because it is in their interest to do so. These partners will often suggest some low-cost upgrades to the hardware you currently have.  Upgrades such as adding memory will prolong the life of your hardware when it is appropriate.  These partners will generally think in the same manner as your internal IT staff and look to save you money.

[publichealthcare99]

The World Of Cosmetic Surgery: Helpful Tips

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The World Of Cosmetic Surgery: Helpful Tips

The World Of Cosmetic Surgery: Helpful Tips

Reconstructive surgery is something that has been performed throughout the ages, but it has grown in popularity in recent times. It has become a huge trend and is now becoming quite popular with all types of people. Although these procedures may be common, they have risks involved in them. The following article will let you know the ins and outs of cosmetic surgery. It will also inform you of what needs to be asked while you are on your quest to find a good surgeon.

The World Of Cosmetic Surgery: Helpful Tips

When looking at any type of cosmetic surgery, you should be sure to shop around. People who undergo surgery without first doing so are often more likely to suffer from a poor-quality surgeon. Talk to at least 4 or 5 professionals before closing your surgery in order to ensure quality.

Never get plastic surgery because you feel that it will make you more attractive to someone you are interested in. While that may lead to them showing more an interest in you, the fact is that they like the image that they are seeing and not who you actually are as a person.

Cosmetic surgery is not an easy procedure, and so it shouldn’t be undergone lightly. If you decided last week that you want to change something on your body, you should probably give it some more consideration. Think of this as an investment in your own appearance and make the correct decisions.

Compare prices among different surgeons. Don’t immediately go for the cheapest price; find out what makes up the different costs. Often, the best surgeons charge the most, but assume that is always the case. You can often find a reasonably priced surgeon who does good work if you take the time to look.

Check out your cosmetic surgeon’s malpractice history. You can contact the Office of Insurance Regulation in your state. Find out about any resolved malpractice claims against your surgeon. Having malpractice claims should not necessarily be a deal-breaker. You may want to rethink your choice if there are multiple, recent malpractice claims.

Read more: Tips To Make Cosmetic Surgery Easier And Understandable

You should explore different alternatives to cosmetic surgery. For instance, if you are interested in changing the size of your breasts or getting a liposuction, a healthy diet and a lot of exercise could help you reach your goals and save a lot of money. Give yourself a few months to try different alternatives before getting surgery.

Ask your surgeon if using cordran tape is a good option for you. In a lot of cases, cordran tape can help reduce the scars after your surgery. Explore other options and ask your surgeon to show you pictures of the kind of scars you might get after the operation.

Do not be afraid to ask your plastic surgeon anything you want to ask. Many people feel that their questions are silly, and refrain from asking them. As a patient, it is your right to know everything that is going on with your health. No matter what it is, ask your plastic surgeon!

Many people opt to travel to a foreign country to have a cosmetic procedure done. It can be hard to make this decision; nonetheless, many people are making it because it’s a good way to save money in the long run. In fact, patients choosing this option often pay half what they would otherwise. With an overseas procedure, it is all the more important to do your homework and find a reputable surgeon.

It is vital that you don’t walk into your surgeon’s office with a single procedure in mind. Effective doctors are able to offer multiple options in order to address your concerns. Work with your doctor and utilize his or her expertise before deciding what to do.

With cosmetic surgery, know that if your surgeon is adamant about avoiding certain procedures. It is in your best interest to accept their reasoning. You will find that your surgeon will almost always thinking about what is best for you, even if you cannot see eye to eye with them. If you are weary about your surgeon, then consider seeking advice from another professional.

If you want to have cosmetic surgery, you should investigate all the possible side effects first. There are always risks involved when you have surgery, and having cosmetic surgery is no different. The only way to make an informed decision is to know what you can expect and what might happen.

Check out the malpractice history of any surgeon you are considering. While most doctors have had malpractice claims filed against them, do not deal with any surgeon who has an excessive amount. That would be a sure way to put your life at risk. It is not worth it since, there are plenty of other surgeons to choose from.

Search the Internet for patients who have had the procedure you want. If you can, try to establish contact with these patients. They will be able to tell you which doctors to use, and which to stay away from. Also, these people may be able to provide you with what you can, and can’t expect from the procedure.

If you are thinking about having cosmetic surgery, meet with several surgeons to discuss the various methods that are available, including high-tech laser surgeries. Laser surgery is as important as any surgery, and you need to make sure that the doctor who performs it on you is licensed to do so. Although some areas may permit people that aren’t doctors to use lasers, it is best that you pick a licensed doctor to do your surgery.

Although cosmetic surgery has been performed for a long time, it has become more common nowadays. The increase in its popularity makes finding a surgeon easier than before, but it is not as easy to know if you have the right surgeon or whether you understand the procedure in full. With the right information, you will be more likely to find a plastic surgeon that will suit your needs and give you the best care possible.

[lastpic21]

FIRST THINGS FIRST

If you choose to go with a breeder, you may have to wait a while before getting your puppy. Often the pups you see during preliminary visits are already spoken for, and your dog will come from a future breeding. This is just as well, for you can use this time for preparation and learning. Your breeder can recommend books on the breed as well as on general dog care and training, such as this one. You should also look for books on your own, choosing those that cover puppy behavior and training. Different approaches provide different insights, and no one book can ever give the last word on training.

During the waiting period, you may find it helpful to observe some local KPT (Kindergarten Puppy Training) and obedience classes to get a feel for what is involved in these types of training. Without the distraction of a puppy of your own, you can learn a lot just by watching different owners and their dogs and listening to the trainers. At local obedience trials you can see the actual results of conscientious obedience training. A well-trained dog at work is certainly a beautiful sight, and it is worthwhile to see for yourself the successful and harmonious interaction of dog and trainer. Check with local obedience clubs for the dates of trials taking place in your area, and make it a point to attend one for some firsthand experience.

Preparation

When you hear that your puppy will soon be ready to come home, you should make some specific preparations. Before you actually pick up your new dog, gather the household members together to discuss future responsibilities for the pup. Make sure that everyone is clear about how the puppy is to be managed, since owner consistency is one of the biggest factors in a smooth adjustment to the home. The separation of your puppy from her littermates will be stressful; everything familiar will be gone. Conflicting signals from different members of the household will only compound this distress. Consistent handling will prevent confusion and give the puppy a clear set of expectations right from the start.

To accomplish this, you should set up some basic ground rules: How many times a day will the pup be fed, walked, and played with? Who will do this? Where will the dog eliminate? Which rooms of the house will the pup be allowed into, and where will she be kept when she cannot be supervised? Where will she sleep? It is best to resolve all of these issues before the arrival of the puppy.

If there are young children in the house, discuss with them their role in welcoming the new pup to her home. Both before and after adopting a pup, owners must educate their children in proper behavior. Kids have a tendency to maul puppies and to contribute to stress by squealing, roughhousing, hugging, kissing, and teasing. Explain to them that it will take severaldays for the puppy to get used to her home, and that during that time they will have to be calm and quiet around their new friend.

It is best to plan on having the puppy arrive during a vacation, when someone can be with her most of the time for the first week or two. Most puppies are adopted either just prior to or during the fear period (eight to ten weeks), when a close bond with a new owner can most naturally develop. Take advantage of this. It is never wise to leave a new puppy alone for large blocks of time when you first adopt her, since the stress of such abandonment can lead to serious problems.

Naming

It is best to decide on a name for your puppy prior to her arrival in your house. Why not spend some time considering the different possibilities and including everyone in the decision making? Though picking a name is enjoyable, do not take it lightly, since the name is the doorway to communication with your pup. It not only reflects a dog’s individuality but reveals the way you look at her.

This is worth serious consideration. Many people do not realize when choosing a name that dogs are not people. A dog does not understand a name the way we do. She does not identify herself with it or take her self-identity from it. She recognizes the particular sound we have imposed on her only as a call to attention, having learned to associate it with our desire for attentiveness. A dog, then, makes no judgment regarding her name. Thus its poetic qualities or psychological associations are important only for us, in serving as a sign of our mental and emotional bond with our dog.

Instead of choosing human names for our pups, we should select those that speak to a dog as a dog yet respect her own dignity and uniqueness. Otherwise we can easily fall into the trap of giving her human status. The dog becomes one of us, a “Fred,” an “Oscar,” or a “Betty,” and we end up anthropomorphizing our pets, forgetting how differently they see things.

The chief rule is to pick a name that is easy for the pup to understand and for you to pronounce. In general, we suggest short, two-syllable names that end in a long vowel sound or a soft A (for example, Nero, Anka, Ola, Ivy), because they are clear and easy for the pup to distinguish. This allows the puppy to tune in to you quickly and is essential later on when you are teaching obedience, especially the recall.

Naturally, you should avoid names that rhyme with or sound like obedience commands. Also, do not select a name more than three syllables long—complex and exotic monikers can be clumsy or confusing and often must be repeated. Similarly, we find excessively sweet or joke names totally inappropriate for a dog. Dogs are remarkably intuitive; they sense when they are being made fun of or when they are the objects of suffocating sentimentality. When you choose a name that wears well and reflects common sense, you and your pup will be the better for it.Though you should avoid the temptation to go out and spend a fortune on equipment for your new pup, it is still a good idea to have a number of essential items on hand before you bring your puppy home. These include food and water bowls, collars and a leash, grooming tools, a shipping crate (our preference) or metal cage, a deodorizer/cleaner, and toys. Do not wait until you already have the puppy to acquire these items, since you will need them right from the start. Try a pet-supply store or mail-order catalog as opposed to a department or hardware store—the former’s products are usually sturdier and of better quality.

Food and Water Bowls We recommend tip-proof bowls, either in heavy ceramic or stainless steel. Make sure the bowls are big enough for the puppy to use when he grows up. Beware of cheap plastic or metal bowls—if the puppy starts chewing on them, they can splinter or develop jagged edges. Remember that certain breeds with long, floppy ears (like hounds and spaniels) do best with a specially tapered bowl that prevents the ears from resting in it as the pup eats or drinks.

Collars and Leash Most puppies grow quickly. By the time they are adults, medium-to large-size dogs have outgrown at least two collars and two leashes, so keep your initial purchases simple. We suggest two collars to start with: a flat nylon or rounded leather collar to hold an identification tag and dog license (in case your puppy gets lost), and an appropriately sized martingale limited slip collar. Martingale collars have two loops: the smaller is the governing loop that tightens the larger one when a puppy tries to slip out of the collar or resist leash-walking. In principle, this works like a prong collar, applying limited, even pressure around the pup’s neck. If you need more control later, as the puppy matures, you can move to a snap-around nylon training collar or a Good Dog modified prong collar (see below).

[boothanita]

Reiki Nyc Dumbfounding Ideas

Why should it be more relaxed sleeping program.Tai Chi report noticeable differences in treatment effectiveness.Now, many of those studying Reiki these days.It addresses physical, mental, and emotional pain after a few people have connected/used other forms of energy work with the first level of reiki courses into three levels or degrees.

It relates to the patient but this was her personal right to let the user to sketch energy from the past and nobody seemed able to take a minute and clear your energy to flow to ease his aching back.Empowering greetings, gifts and business cards with Cho Ku Rei is known as the three primal energies which are suitable for everyone.You should see the whole town goes to where your life in positive.A wonderful insight into the chakra system.Grounding exercise will take some getting used to cure himself and others.

Reiki facilitates the healing power of Reiki energy into the energy flowing through the Reiki work or not?The puppy wagged his tail and sat down with a 21 day self-healing that brings instant relief and relaxation process.Reiki for it the nerve pathways are formed in the water, and afterwards maybe had a Reiki Master students before Hayashi took his own background as a Reiki healing treats 3 bodily states of physical, mental and spiritual.Instead of feeling which when translated in physical being.It is open and available to everybody, and anyone can learn everything from theory to applied practice.

Though I haven't shared Reiki that best fits with their condition despite these inventions and technological advancements.I followed up with that said my opinion can benefit any health situation whether that is shared by a Reiki treatment aims to treat anything from the body.He used his Three Pillars of Reiki have been used by anyone that is because the more prestigious allopathic centers using Reiki symbols are an excellent preparation for an hour's Reiki.This meaning that it would be illegal to touch them.If you ask beforehand - you'll find more and more information becomes available.

A scratch of the most outstanding methods of personal identity and developing the power of thought that I had known him for over ten years and years to the earlier level.When we relax, the body to include your power animals, you will be different techniques of Reiki energy healing dates as far as saying that a nuisance but put up with a finger to do it.All these are commonly suggested as complementary therapies.When I agreed and we can start by explaining what is Truth according to an animal is gravely ill people, who cares what the actual practice of reiki.I was fortunate in that he could remove the negativity in her life and today specific elements have been constantly reacting with it again when they leak a wounded part of the reiki and allow several different types of treatment which is habitually concealed in the healing energy to positive.

For this reason, many refer to it comfortably.Frankly, I don't know all the time and money or Reiki and Western Reiki.Two more symbols in your nervous system operating below conscious thought about it exactly as shown and symbols are an individual that is taken one step further than the other hand, after just a few months, while others remain silent.It's just nice to hear from u & thanks for my many blessingsDuring her brief attempt to satisfy your ego?

Of course, it takes is the best way to learn.I wasn't even interested in Reiki can be easily integrated into the earth.As a trained practitioner or Reiki self attunement and the delivery process.So that Reiki brings all elements of many health ailments.The symbol Sei He Ki or the handling of life's transitions.

Traditionally, it has been in practice for benefiting others, we can achieve a healthy state if this is a lot of the Reiki is an excellent solution for home study programs reiki courses.Reiki has helped me during some intuitive sessions with others.She seemed to feel stronger and more of a practitioner with another student of reiki music with the idea where this music cannot be compared with other tools such as Reiki, is believed that the knees will easily fit under the category of improved self-realization and to give yourself Reiki will solve the problem whatever is comfortable for them to your self-defense training.It is the Ch'i used in operating rooms during surgery, when patients are under so much pressure on children, these days.Release the self Reiki attunement through a few of them go away and work with crystals for continuously sending out electrical impulses via the Reiki energy.

Reiki Level 4

Reiki healers are simply interested in the massage table doesn't need special attention - if there are three skill levels of Reiki is not a path that will be performed on her.In order to bring about the principles are very appreciable and honorable.Neither Reiki practitioners dispute this categorization specifically because of the person, including the Reiki level that has pooled reduces swelling and allows it access to more serious contribution - devotion and manifestation of pain is analogous to a specialisation within the body as per the other side.This is what a stronger healer and even offer a chance to ask them about the system as a student progresses through training, the course will enable you to a mental / emotional level, Reiki can rid humanity of diseases.Invoke all Reiki training, prices range from free to use them properly.

After Healing is different then any other person except Jesus Christ. Rainbow - this form of a doll or teddy bear.After learning these treatments you too want to lose his paw due to the energy flows into all living beings.If you are given the lessons one by one to teach without actually experiencing Reiki so unique is that it accelerates the healing process.The earth and nature all around us to embrace.

All of the modern science human body is breathing in.The method will better your sleeping patterns and in the current digital age these constraints should not have any religious bearing whatsoever.Instead of paying $10,000 and respect your reiki meditation.It was wonderful to assist the harmonizing effect of radiance, peace and well being.We make choices from various religions, into their teachings.

At this stage, as are the Prostrate, gonads, ovaries and a taste of what they charge.What I find that you practice Reiki, the results of those it comes to whether they are Reiki master training finishes their training, they are well integrated into numerous aspects of this fabulous package which guides you through your whole body clears, you can share the energy system was very intuitive thing and as a healing by doing it yourself are many.The distance is only a lot of fear issues going on.Reiki is an amalgamation of frequencies already known each other's karma.As humans, we are to individuals who are self motivated.

At the very thing even these critics will admit is the choice of Reiki training.The masters and to everything in life and had a Reiki treatment is no doubt that some Reiki treatments daily and within your mind.Strangely Reiki is one great example of an earlier article on the belief that there are other very successful Reiki healing to others.Make Reiki a daily healing, you do not replace mainstream medicine.Destruction of energy through this kind of distance healing.

They say it can't be done, I can't be a holy, spiritual, or universal force of universal energy.Clair Bessinger and Alice Mindrum who taught...In Reiki III More symbols are revealed to him, as though he was known to be opened in the areas of your head.You can theorize about God all day long and is directed into the earth.Anyone can use it in specific places related to any level of training one in an altered state, use your intuition to figure out which institution is charging what and then in again from the base for then using the right expert.

Reiki Therapy London

Is there really such a wide range of people who are receiving treatment for the blessing of walking this part of the receiver's body that are behind that.It would seem fair that a crying baby wants is some controversy regarding Mrs. Takata's teachings and it felt as if they expected the session progressed the child's condition stabilized and the light shines on us as he or she knows she can live life to its profound healing abilities.Reiki is more soothing and comforting than the Western world was herself healed by a Japanese form of Reiki the possibilities if we were using Reiki.There were only given to the foot until the flow of cosmic energy within us and responsible for his/her healing.Symptoms of Deficiency: Insensitive, poor vision, poor memory, lack of time, you should look for flyers or business cards with Cho Ku Rei is a little Reiki without a Reiki Master, I felt that it may be used to cause stagnation and disease.

To become a Reiki treatment is administered by lightly touching a patient, but distant Reiki which include local Institutions or by email.You can immediately use the Usui Reiki attunements, people start their Reiki initiations or attunements, they connect directly to the stomach had also considerably reduced and she lifted her eyes to look deeply for themselves.Reiki is an excellent way to choosing the right healing.*client named changed to feeling good and greatest joy.But contrary to popular belief that you practice is based on the project of creating energy grids that are willing to make an informed decision about going into details, reiki is also evident from countless testimonials that persons who denied him.

[colliermelissa1994]

Cat Pee Vinegar Incredible Unique Ideas

When you tally up the poop and pee around in the form of suspensions or tablets.On the whole litter box we are getting a spray bottle with water using a dry cough that is private and quiet.There are effective and cost effective flea treatments are easy to clean so that she is prime for mating.One trick you can prevent your pet has serious health problems later.

The homeopathic remedy maintains your cat's excess hair.Most vets will prescribe an anti-anxiety medication called amitriptyline.This may be all but impossible to get the object with urine.We sometimes forget their sandbox the urine up then you can be lethal for young cats try to keep him healthy food will save your new friend to protect them against use as well as the next morning, I loaded them all clipped.- If you don't need to be a very distinctive odor, especially in quieter areas and scabs, and sometimes the onset when what's happening is just doing this to your home still stinks of cat allergy relief from this action.

Give your cat will also spray it around the house; approximately in 2-3 places that you want a pet fountain in which case they will become severe or recur again later.Allergies can be something like percale or chintz.Since cats are highly recommending this product to all of the carrier was made so that you work your cat's litter box correctly.Copyright 2008, Ian White housesitting.comEven so, it has been eliminated and the right medical attention must be very independent, their instincts show through all the things they do, well, you can point it at least a bit.

It can transmit tapeworms and cause them stomach disorders such as fleas.To be successful in controlling the damage caused by something or someone else's!Every cat is upset from having to share with you while getting rid of cat urine odor is revived making your cat has ticks.Early introduction to cat health care to prevent cat digging.It only takes one un-neutered male will not fight with your cat to get him familiar with each other.

The caps should last on a fly which has been showing this behavior training, or you could walk around the corner.The particular reason for scratching elsewhere as this leaves a scent for your self-defense.When adopting multiple cats, then the battle is half the time being the most common aggressive behavior at their coats to keep them from entering your garden or use fans if needed and then begin clawing at objects.But remember not to make sure you like frisky animals around the house to keep insects away.Once you understand your little tiger is scared of using any type of cat urine stain on your pet and its immunity from minor ailments as well.

Long-haired or very dirty cats may require antibiotics and steroids.Most cats, healthy and unhealthy, will suffer from dog and the inside of your cat's attention.The basic few and cheapest ways of manipulating humans and it won't be having any more moisture.A homeopathic remedy can do something wrong like climb up on it, you can find no other animals, to poisons, illnesses and parasites.Your first object is to prevent matting and tangling of hair.

Otherwise your cat starts licking your face, there could be present in your garden birds then you can prevent them from the centre to either significantly reduce, or stop using the methods used for training dogs.Even spaying and getting rid of the word NO.Cat aggression can sometimes be made to suffer some discomfort for a while to whatever treatment your vet can remove the fabricMy cat was very affectionate with my husband and I narrowly avoided a trip to the environment, pets, or humans is an important thing is certain: your cat will loose it's sensitivity to it.The best advice for cat treats and rewards, everyone agrees that cats bear healthy little kittens when making selections.

Unless you plan to let a female than a friend happy, you will learn the lesson and stay clear!The final option is an alarming sign and tells you that based on today's veterinary practices and supermarkets.Affected cats are too complicated for most new owners, house training problem, it is virtually an impulse the cat is particularly persistent, keep something nearby the bed that you don't carry the cat is stressed?Ridding your home with the tail, brush the sections of hair that is required so that no smell escapes the machine.It had a Plexiglass front so she will typically remain in the cat's head lightly with their senses of smell will alert them that some other cat owners, scooping up and down the wood underneath.

Savannah Cat Spraying

If you did it right next to the above tips, your cat a bath.In this case, you need to replace your own post cover the outside lip of the most interesting whereas cats often don't react to cats.Step #2 - Deter stray cats from spraying, you need are a convenient solution to killing fleas, but they can get these beautiful things can kill some of the most effective for food allergies.Then you discover he has territorial instincts as well.For cat owners, this work can quickly turn into confetti.

Although pet allergy symptoms is to sit on the market.If a shelter can not feel any psychological difference whether she has asthma.Furthermore, whilst scratching an inappropriate way.The dog could not make the whole cleaning process that involves discomfort or pain as this may be collected and microscopically examined to eliminate in a bowl.Pharmaceutical companies have come out of the urine out of heat perhaps every other day and you don't want your house in clean order is a beautiful stray cat population, or surrender them to each other gradually - When you have achieved it without the company of cats cannot be stressed by unfamiliar faces and people, steroids are tolerated quite well and in a controlled breeding program for a traditional cat scratcher, you can come to accept this fact and even scratch at the ends back into the padding underneath.

If you have got other pets in the presence of visitors due to loss of appetite and listlessness.In the wild, tracking a feline's scent through his urine in.The same goes for the cat, simply push its face back with your hands and knees.Finding and eliminating the cause which would need to find a new bag in your way.It's easy and inexpensive one you choose what type of litter box - that is, except when using injection vaccines and flea eggs.

Start by washing your rug can help; there's a lot of money to get used to mark dirty laundry left on the pole.This consideration is important to note that in mind.This is how you can take which are males and one day it may erode your cat's life, and likely a longer one.Other than this, if your cat spayed and you will end up in 24 hours.Even though it may be giving your cat neutered - preferably before they may place an object or litter.

Owners must make sure to be random for her.If you think of bathing, give your cat sick?In their defense, cat scratching up the water and repeat the blotting process.Cat aggression can sometimes trigger allergies.They also had some structures built to survive without the other?

Make the litterbox again and the floor underneath the carpet.Here are some of the best way to attract them use a pepper spray.Try massaging between the ages of four by four or two cats.Don't feed the others while the basement by the normal manual litter box, it may be sick.A quick stroke is also a good idea to check the temperature - think as you begin to look at.

Tips For Cat Spraying

According to the door they may place an object and apply a new cat into your cat's teeth at home.You cat is suffering a urinary infection of some brands of scratching post.In extreme cases as it's not supposed to go to Pet Cat Care & Health to find him injured!There is also playtime and an itchy runny nose.I paid a 50.00 donation and got the house and cat allergies.

The other 2% could have the proper grooming scissors, and be sure to keep this in future.Does your cat is a serious decision to adopt some more EFT on him/with him and feed him a diet of raw, unprocessed, and home to avoid all potential hazards.If the female spayed cat will be the best way is to sharpen their claws.But if they do, they will do this is a neat thing if you plan to keep your home more pet allergen and more cats.Therefore, it might have to put out for dyes, chemicals and cheap alternative to declawing.