obeymeluv

[obeymeluv]

I'm Not a Zigvolt But I Bite - 2 - [Sebek x Reader]

Even though you'd been medically cleared by the nurses in the infirmary and felt way better than you had in a long time, Sebek insisted on carrying you back to Ramshackle. You didn't miss the way his naked hand stayed on a pulse point. Lilia wasn't going to say anything at first but the incurable urge to poke fun at the youngling bested him; he could only laugh and silently praise Sebek's sharp wit. The young man excused the lack of gloves by saying your skin might still be tender from the fight and healing magic so he was just being considerate.

You look up at him lovingly, resting your head on his chest. Sebek feels his ears burning, his insides squirming so much that he'll puke if he keeps eye contact. His sharp eyes dart away, cheeks a powdery pink. Malleus is no stranger to teasing Sebek and Silver, naturally, and offers to carry you. The offer is met with a pure crocodilian noise that Malleus recognizes as offended, possessive, and threatening.

Not the logical mind of his guard, obviously. Merely the teeth of his animal side.

"My apologies," Malleus can't deny the noise makes his fangs itch. "I shan't tease you any longer. It was simply in jest, my friend."

"I understand, my lord." Sebek hmphs as he stares ahead and ignores Lilia's muffled giggling. It's clear to anyone behind him that his neck is red. You somehow convince Sebek to let you walk around after Grim opens the door (Sebek woke him up from a nap). For sucking in a whole magical dragon scale, you don't really feel different.

Sleepy, but not different.

You kind of thought you'd immediately get super strength or be able to hear the gate rattling from the living room.

A wave of exhaustion hits you and you sigh defeatedly, crawling onto the beaten couch with Grim. Your companion pulls down a blanket and snuggles in, ready to get a more restful sleep now that you're home and safe. Lilia and the others take their leave.

Sebek listens to them lock the door, his eyes not leaving you. It's subtle but your skin is changing. There's a thin, twinkling veil over your body. With effort and absolute silence, he scoops you and Grim up. You're asleep now but he can feel something thrumming in you, your veins humming now instead of just flowing with blood.

He lays you down, tucking you in carefully. Grim runs hot, being a fire-breathing direbeast, but that heat can't hide the fact you don't feel as warm as he's used to.

Maybe it's just because you've been through so much? Maybe he's just imagining things because he's worried. Yes, that's it. It has to be.

What happens when a human becomes fae like this? Sebek texts Lilia. They're changing.

I'm not sure, my boy, Lilia texts back. Humans normally become part fae through marriage or contract. This is different. The most we can do is keep an eye on them and look for dragon fae traits.

Sebek wonders just what 'dragon fae traits' entailed as he sheds his tie and blazer. He changes into some spare clothes and nestles in beside you.

Whatever that means, he'll see you through it. A small part of him can't deny that he's intrigued by your change. His brain is suddenly consumed with the daydream of teaching little fae children how to walk and wondering if they'll have visible scales like his grandfather since both of you have the genes for them now.

Trait 1: Dragon fae, like most fae, are bewitching but their eyes are especially captivating. A dragon fae's thrall is strong.

Sebek had his own internal clock and despite being raised by nocturnal fae, he was an early riser. You get more things done when you wake early. He inhaled deeply through his nose, stretching up towards the headboard as one foot slipped out of the sheets to touch the floor. Grim gave a weak yowl of protest as Sebek stretched his other leg out; your little direbeast had somehow fallen asleep between you two and chose to lounge across your thigh and use Sebek's calf as a footrest.

"Come back to bed, Becky," Sebek looks over his shoulder at you, silently cursing the direbeast. Your voice is sleepy but your eyes grow clearer by the second. And they...seem to glow? Surely it's a trick of the light? You take pride in keeping Ramshackle clean but the windows are old and battered by time and the twisting branches of looming trees.

Surely it's the way the light's filtering in through your cheap curtains.

Yes, it has to be.

"Lay with me," your voice is hoarse from sleep but invitingly warm. A warm, simmering coo that wraps around him like the hands around his waist. Sebek's muscles flinch as you trace around his stomach and up his chest but you both know he's ticklish. There's a residual hum running on the heels of the warmth and he finds himself rolling over, sliding back in to face you.

Your eyes are bright and brilliant; there's streaks and flecks he never noticed before. Your pupils are bigger than they normally are, he observes, and something boyish in him squeals with glee because that means you're interested in him. He watches your irises glimmer with a soft candlelight-like glow, the colors flaring and dimming like a flame.

He is a willing bug. He was before your change but there's an otherworldly potency now.

You snuggle against him, nose to nose now, and your eyes glitter with absolute joy. The air crackles with something that makes his neck hairs stand on end, his skin pebbling with goosebumps. It doesn't make a physical noise but his chest seizes like he's been sucker-punched. "Ramshackle's colder than Diasomnia. I know you don't like being cold when you wake up so let's lay together for a while." you wrap your arms around him and Sebek melts.

For a brief moment he wonders if you'd hoard him. Does this count as your nest or is there enough royal lineage in you to turn your nose up at it? "I suppose we could rest some more. We've earned it after these last few days," his chin finds its normal spot at the top of your head.

Trait 2: Dragon fae forget their own strength

Sebek is ripped from sleep by a cacophonous splintering that makes his stomach drop. His first thought: Grim blew up the furniture again.

"Sebek! Help!"

He sprints out of the bed, sure the sheets have new holes to sew because he threw them off so viciously. Sebek's feet pound against the creaky wood and he slides to a stop at the top of the stairs. There's a huge chunk of the banister on the first floor now, splinters of wood scattered about. Your foot is in one of the steps and he can only guess you stepped down too hard. Trying to catch yourself on the railing didn't work and now you're dangling in the space it used to be.

"Hold on!" Sebek steps carefully around you, wary of your combined weight. "Be still," his voice is firm but not cold. You relax at the warm, reassuring feeling of his hands on your waist. He pulls you up and drags you back, hauling you up a step so your foot isn't twisted anymore. The fact that you're not gushing blood from the splintery maw you've put your foot in is a testament to your fae genes.

As is the fact you didn't break anything.

He pushes on the boards around your foot, trying to find weak spots he can break without stabbing you. You've scooted back a step and a half, trying to pull your foot out while he works. Sebek hears the woody groan before he sees the cracks, tucking himself against the wall and covering his face as wood rains down. The step is basically nonexistent but you're free now. "Um, good morning?" you blush, brushing wood bits off of him as you stand awkwardly on an in-tact step.

Your foot looks red and tender but that fades by the time he carries you down the steps. Had he not seen the scratches and dried blood on your foot before he picked you up, he wouldn't have known you were hurt.

"Why don't we get some breakfast?" he offers, brushing hair out of his eyes.

"We're in pajamas," you mumble quietly.

"I'll grab us some clothes. Stay down here, okay?" Sebek changes and fixes his hair, stepping outside while you change. Out of habit, he opens the door for you and makes sure it's locked before he, you, and Grim leave.

Trait 3: Dragon fae tend to collect shiny things

Sebek can tell by the crinkle in your brow and the tenseness of your jaw that you're focusing. He wonders if the fork and knife suddenly feel like nothing in your hand. Do you feel like you're cutting through the sausage or sawing through the ceramic plate underneath?

He's not surprised that you're eating more protein-focused foods. Dragon fae, like crocodilian fae, prefer protein heavy, nutrient dense foods. It was no secret to anyone at NRC that you ate healthy and heartily when you got the chance, being on a petty salary. So far you'd eaten two thick slices of Mostro Lounge's breakfast quiche, a sausage patty, and a piece of his bacon. Malleus and Lilia join you, bringing on a new round of croissants, spreads, and other delicacies.

Jade dutifully clears the plates, stacking them in an almost hypnotizing manner. They fit so cleanly together! He sets Sebek's parfait glass on top and pauses. "I believe my silverware count is off. Does anyone recall dropping anything?"

"We'll look around. No need to tire yourself!" Lilia dismisses him with his usual big smile. His pink eyes turn dark and sharp, boring into you like the bite of a dagger. He holds his gloved hand out, wiggling his fingers expectantly. Firmly, like a parent.

"What?" you try not to squirm. The look he's giving you makes your skin crawl. He doesn't miss the fact that you're sitting on your hands.

"Hand them over, Beastie."

"I don't know what you're talking about."

There's hissing and pissy noises but Lilia is unfazed. He's been through this for at least a hundred years with Malleus before you were even thought of. Lilia wrestles your hand onto the table, scalloped silverware gleaming in the lounge's lighting. The dragon part of your brain is too strong for you to feel shame. "It's mine!" you hiss.

"Your first hoard! Delightful!" Malleus is no help at all, eyes gleaming with pride as he rests his chin on his hand to watch Lilia lecture you, arm pinned under his at a weird angle until you give up your stolen treasures. Sebek distracts you with a cute little butter dish that looks like a crystal bell, twirling it in the light to make it twinkle. He quickly shoves it into Jade's hand, tangling his finger with yours. Lilia keeps a firm grip on your other arm, free hand full of the silverware and waving at Jade.

You scowl and pout, drumming your fingers angrily on the tablecloth. "Stop that before you shred it." Lilia smacks the top of your hand without even looking; it's a reflex to lay it flat and you see your nails have tapered into strong, sharp points.

"Would you like to go trinket shopping, Child of Man? It will make you feel better."

"Don't baby them, Malleus! You don't reward bad behavior."

"They're basically a hatchling, Lilia. It's not fair."

"Start them young!" Lilia shoos you away from the table before you can take anything else.

Trait 4: Dragon fae are possessive

Lilia sat Crowley, Divus, Vargas, and Trein down to explain your...new developments....before school resumed the next day. The only class you didn't need extra supervision in was Flying. It was open and vast and you weren't a direct danger to anyone since you walked while the others flew. You were itching to grab a broom and see if you could fly since Malleus could but Vargas refused on the principle that a juvenile half-dragon fae might pose a risk to others.

You'd start private flying lessons at a later date, just not today.

Miffed was an understatement, but you'd live. You tried not to think about it because it made your chest burn.

Being part fae meant seeing the world with new eyes; you were surprised at how easily you picked up the scurrying of squirrels in the trees or bugs in the grass. There was a near-constant chiming in your ear now. You'd seen little fairies on your walks with Malleus before and they seemed drawn to you, like they recognized the fae in you. The crisp sweetness of the grass was more apparent now; you could smell the richness of the dirt, too.

You could also hear some Savanaclaw students making fun of Sebek and that made your blood boil. Something about 'the reason he can't fly straight is because he already has a broom up his ass'? In you're head you're telling them to fuck off but that's not what comes out of your mouth. You don't even know what comes out of your mouth but it scares them and you're okay with that!

The rage buzzes in you still and you try to tell them to shut the hell up because they're making fun of you now. Mocking Diasomnia and the company they keep. There's a pop in your throat and it feels like you've swallowed wrong, like you've sucked something in and it makes you cough. Green blasts of fire tear through the sky, narrowly missing the guy's broom.

Everyone panics, brooms darting all around, and you close your mouth. It doesn't stop the burning or the violent urge to cough. Smoke tickles in your lunges and scorches your nostrils. You've seen Malleus blow smoke out of his nose before but it's not helping. Unable to help yourself, you cough. You cough until it feels gone from your lungs.

Vargas, who'd been casting protective shields and using magic to get the brooms down, blasted you with a water spell. You were now dripping wet and smoking but you didn't care. The terrified Savanaclaw student locks eyes with you and you point at him, clicking your teeth. Smoke slides out of your mouth when you do.

"Don't make fun of my boyfriend or I'll roast you, asshole!" you find your human voice again but it squeaks from smoke and dryness. The guy clearly heard you based on how he turned and ran.

Trait 5: There's rumors that dragon fae can influence the weather but not enough data to support it

Sebek is absolutely soaked through but he doesn't care about that right now. Vargas ushered everyone inside but he, Lilia, and Malleus stayed in the field with you. The clouds gathered almost instantly but there's no lightning. Just a lonely rumble and a flood of rain that hides your tears.

His footsteps go unheard in the wet grass as it drowns and sags. He moves your wild hair, cupping your cheeks to tilt your head towards the sky. You give great, heaving sobs and his thumbs dig into the corner of your lips to make your mouth open. "It will soothe your throat," his hand moves to cradle the back of your head, cheek pressed against your throat as you swallow.

You sputter and cough, drawing back to look at him. You make a feeble attempt to wipe your eyes clean but it doesn't matter because your hands are wet and there's raindrops in your lashes. "Are you mad at me?" your eyes are crinkling up like you're going to cry no matter what he says. "D-Do you want to break up with me?"

The rain gets heavier. It stings now instead of just being cold.

"Why would I break up with you?" Sebek cups your face again, pulling you in until your foreheads touch.

"Because I'm weird and I broke the stairs and I breathe fire? I don't know what I'm doing and it's really hard!" you sag in his hold and Sebek folds himself down so you both sit on the ground.

"That's just part of being a young fae," Sebek laughs. "You're going to do weird things and have to learn your body again."

"So it happened to Malleus?"

"Most definitely. Lilia could tell you plenty of stories. Pretty sure he has pictures, too." Sebek recalled one of Malleus looking absolutely murderous as he sat at a long table half-covered by ice magic.

The rain was letting up now. It was almost a gentle mist.

"What about you?"

"Had to wear a muzzle." Sebek gave a wry smile. "I tore up a lot of furniture and had an insatiable urge to bite everything when my new teeth were coming in."

Sun started to slide across the grass again. He stood up, brushing clumps of dirt and grass from his knees. Sebek helped you up and you scooped him into a crushing hug that made him yelp. You paused, realizing you'd lifted him a bit and put him down gently.

"Can I carry you?"

Sebek had to wince against the sun now, looking down at you. You looked up at him with those big, glowing eyes and he was glad your thrall hadn't activated. It was just the big, puppy eyes of his lover.

"If you must," he sighed, crossing his arms like a grouchy child as you carried him bridal style. Lilia and Malleus clapped in the background.

[obeymeluv]

Food and Friends [Random TWST Boys]

You make food from your world and get the boys to try it. If you can't make it, Sam gets it to you.

Featuring: deviled eggs, fried pickles, and flaming hot cheetos

I haven't read all the vignettes on every card or watched all of the events so I don't know if these foods already exist in Twisted Wonderland but I thought of the food I'd miss. Or ones I think would be kind of hard to explain.

I guess this is like a "Southerner Edition" since I'm from the south lol. Any references to how things are made are just how my family makes them, not the ultimate way to make anything.

Not proofread. Might do that tomorrow.

I. Deviled Eggs

You've been trying to find a way to ease the homesick ache with little success. The school had great food (a surprise, given that Crowley was the headmaster) but nothing like what you were used to. There were things that came close to your favorite foods but nothing was exact. After scrounging up enough money, you stocked your pantry with staples and went to work recreating things.

Ace and Deuce let themselves in when you were in the middle of taking eggs out of an ice bath. Deuce's eyes sparkled as you expertly freed the eggs from their shell prison. He enjoyed basically every style of egg and was not above a plain boiled one. Honestly, he was silently wondering if he could slip you a few thaumarks to eat a few since they were right there and he was here now.

"What are you doing?" Ace squinted at you curiously as you deftly cleaved the egg and scooped the yellow yolk balls into a bowl.

"Making deviled eggs," you replied, arranging the pitted halves to make room for more.

"What's that? Spicy eggs?" he watches you add mayonnaise, yellow mustard, and paprika, mixing and fluffing until there's something creamy in the bowl. He can smell the mustard and it stings his nose just a little.

"No. It's deviled eggs." you laugh, grasping blindly for the nearby cup with a plastic sandwich bag already folded over it. Deuce and Ace look like children, peering at you with big eyes as you taste a bit with a second fork, sprinkling salt and pepper over it before plopping it into the bag. You push and twist the filling down into a corner of said bag before snipping it off.

No one says a word as you paint the hollows with the mix. Sometimes you swirl it into a little heap, sometimes you fan it back and forth so it's flat but no less full. Deuce thinks it's absolutely genius that one egg can make two of these things. He hasn't tried them yet but he's sure he'll like them.

"I can't really explain it. You just have to try it." you pop one in your mouth, pointing a thumb back at the plateful. Ace looks mildly skeptical but you can see the intrigue. Deuce makes the face you usually see when Crewel gives an essay question on an Alchemy test. He's debating on how to pick said egg up; the half is small in his big hand. And slippery.

And Ace's complaining about the filling getting on his finger is right in his ear.

Deuce takes his first bite and it's like heaven in his mouth. You have the tang of the mustard, the creaminess of the mayo, the complimentary fattiness of the yolk and he doesn't think he's tasted anything like it! He lets out an involuntary moan and has no shame, reaching around Ace for another one before he's even swallowed the first.

Ace is on his third and Deuce is gunning for a fourth. You've wisely stolen a few and stepped aside. Living in Twisted Wonderland has given you a sixth sense and something's about to go down.

There's one deviled egg left and they've both realized it.

A small fight ensues and you nearly choke to death when Deuce wins.

When did they even fall to the floor?!

He's jammed Ace against the cabinets, leaning back into him like a chair. You're ninety percent sure one of Ace's arms are pinned to his chest. Ace tries to hook his legs around and kick Deuce, or at the very least kick himself free, but that just makes Deuce push himself up to sit on Ace's shoulder so he can stretch and tangle their legs together. "Get off!" Ace hisses, Deuce's weight forcing him to roll forward.

Deuce ignores him, settling into the flat of his back. He swings his once-tangled leg out in front of him and hums happily, feet now crossed at the ankles.

"Get off!" Ace yells again, kicking his feet.

"Good, right?"

Deuce can't answer you. His cheeks are full.

Who else likes them: Epel, Ruggie, Trey

Who refuses to eat them: Vil, Idia, Leona

--------

II. Fried Pickles

You were glad Twisted Wonderland had pickles but were surprised none of the restaurants offered fried pickles. When you asked Azul if he'd ever put it on the menu he just looked at you like you were crazy. Not unusual for someone who came from the Coral Sea but if fried chicken made sense to him, why didn't fried pickles? Hell, he even knew what fried mozzarella sticks were!

"Because that doesn't seem like something you'd fry?" he adjusted his glasses. It was something he did when he didn't know how to fill the silence in a conversation. The silence was an honest one, too, because what in the sevens were you talking about?

"How can you fry it, anyways? It already comes in liquid." Floyd questioned, interested now. He couldn't quite picture what you were talking about.

"One can generally only fry something in batter and the pickle liquid is not thick enough for frying." Jade observed.

"No one's ever heard of it? Seriously? It can't just be from my world!" you looked between the three mermen. Their blank eyes stared back at you.

"Easy fix. C'mon!" you motioned for them to follow you into the Mostro Lounge kitchen. They abandon their midmorning tea to watch you grab little food gloves and set up your dredging station. You don't know how you did it or when it happened but the Lounge's kitchen became your second kitchen and your preferred seasonings are always at the front of the cabinet. Azul watches you season the flour with spices, adding splashes of buttermilk, pickle juice, and hot sauce until there's something dippable and smooth.

"This is a really common appetizer where I'm from." you explain. "And you can make a lot of it from one pickle. Or a jar of pickle slices."

"Ah. I see," Jade leans over the two plates you've set out beside the flour mix. One is for the handfuls of pickle slices covered in the juice, the other is for slices that have been blotted dry. "The frying is possible because there's no longer a juice film to compete with the batter."

"Pretty much." you shrug. You never imagined someone would want to scientifically analyze the fried pickle process. Then again, it's Jade.

You'd set up a sauce pan with a few inches of oil before they'd entered the kitchen. Once the thermometer went off, you started frying in batches. Azul's stomach turned a little at the sight of oil soaking into the napkins but not out of disgust. He was a sucker for fried chicken and the distinct smell of something fried was making him hungry.

Pickle chips were a blessing and a curse. Small and convenient but dangerous at times like these. A few handfuls made more than fifty fried pickles and you were afraid they'd go to waste. You'd like them, hell yeah, but you were also afraid to get sick from eating so many.

For all his curiosity, Jade was the last one to try it. He kept his eyes locked on Floyd, drinking in every twitch of the brow and crinkle on his face. Floyd munched away happily, sometimes tossing in two or three at a time. Azul tutted and huffed at his burnt lip, nibbling a pocket for the heat to escape so he didn't make the same mistake again.

They were crispy, flavorful, and a bit vinegary with a flash of heat at the end. Definitely something you could eat a lot of without realizing it. Azul wouldn't even let himself question the calories or how much exercise he'd have to do to break even. No, instead he asked you, "How much do people pay for these?"

Who else likes them: Rook, Jack, Ruggie, Cater

Who refuses to eat them: Jamil, Malleus, Sebek

--------

III. Flaming Hot Cheetos

Sam was, admittedly, intrigued by the packaging. Flames and some kind of spotted cat on the bag? Interesting. You told him stories about how kids would pay others to split bags of these at your school. At one point there was a ban on them because teachers got tired of finding red fingerprints on classwork after lunch. They were also tired of kids using them as an excuse to get up for water, trying to stay out of class as long as possible.

He watched you open the bag and briefly forgot you came from a world with no magic. With a name like 'Flaming Hot Cheetos' he thought the bag would give a little cloud of smoke or pop of fire when you opened it. An unusual blend of spices hit his nose and Sam didn't know what to think. Cater peered interestedly into the bag as you pulled out a chip; it was thin, long, and dusted an almost violent red.

Not quite Riddle red, but redder than any chip he'd seen!

His mission to bring Trey jugs of milk and sticks of butter was temporarily forgotten as you began to feast on your other-dimensional treat. You gave Sam one for his troubles--poor fella had to transport and disguise himself and everything--and Cater batted his lashes at you sweetly. He was a mega-lover of spicy things, after all!

Too bad he couldn't post about it on Magicam, though. It'd make for an interesting picture!

It made Sam cough and you thought you saw his eyes water. He thanked you for sharing but quickly refused another one. The shadows pawed at you and slithered up your side, begging, but Sam told you to ignore them. Cater made a happy noise as you passed him one, warning that his fingers would stain red. The boy shrugged, biting down.

Cater didn't know what to think at first. It wasn't a super dense chip but it wasn't airy nothingness, either. There was a crunch but not much substance. Once you bit it, though, your mouth tingled with a rush of heat. It's almost like it dissolved on his tongue! His nose felt like it wanted to run but he didn't care; these things were crunchy and delicious!

"I like these!" he accepted another one, ignoring the temptation to crack open some of the milk and take a swig as the heat lingered. He bought a drink to mellow the burn but didn't regret the taste. "My lips look hot, too," Cater checked his reflection in his phone when his lips started to feel a little funny. They looked plumper and tinted from the spices.

A sexy flushed, just-bitten kind of look!

"They're pretty good," you agree.

Who else likes them: Rook, Lilia, Malleus, Idia

Who refuses to eat them: Jack, Ruggie, Jade, Vil, Riddle, Leona

[obeymeluv]

Haven't been feeling great lately and a lot of family stuff going on but I've had two crack blurbs running in my head all week. I'm fixing to unleash them on you. Also, I've been slugging my way through the second part of "I'm Not a Zigvolt But I Bite". Enjoying it, but it's taking a minute.

[obeymeluv]

My week needs this 😐

If you see this on your dashboard, reblog this, NO MATTER WHAT and all your dreams and wishes will come true.

[obeymeluv]

Kalim's family tradition of seeing a fortune-teller before introducing the partner leaves him with concerns when she says something comforting and cryptic about your future with him.

There was a tradition in the Al-Asim family where a fortune-teller must be consulted prior to bringing a partner to see the family for the first time. It was a highly regarded practice meant to see the compatibility of the couple and how it might impact the family. Rumor had it that an Al-Asim had been saved long, long ago by a fortune-teller and promised them a life without want in return. Kalim sat nervously, swallowing thickly as the swathed woman lit her incense and rearranged her trinkets.

Jamil stood guard outside the tent, as did several other men loyal to the family. Kalim knew he was safe; he was more scared of what she may have to say. Divinatory magic was her family's specialty and she had a fantastic record. Thus far she'd correctly predicted the gender of six of his siblings, which suitors would come for his older sister, and the night his father would've been successfully poisoned (if not for her dream and intervention).

He couldn't imagine a life without you! What could she possibly have to say?

Sure, you weren't far along in your relationship but Kalim knew in his heart that he didn't want anyone else. For him, the sun rose and set in your eyes. The relationship was pretty serious, given Jamil's threats to strangle him if he talked about you anymore than he already talked to you.

"Be not afraid, little Al-Asim," she smiled, talking in their shared tongue, "I see a very happy life for you."

Kalim jumped, snapping to alertness. He didn't realize he'd zoned out staring at the smoke winding up from the incense sticks. She hummed and swirled her hands around the giant crystal ball in front of her, inhaling the smoke and blowing it over the sphere. Some of his siblings warned him that she would describe the partner--with scary accuracy; she could even tell him what toe his brother-in-law had a freckle on!--before giving the vision.

She correctly guessed the color of your skin and quoted his favorite way to describe your eyes. Kalim physically shivered; apologizing hastily soon after. His cheeks were a fierce pink that made her chuckle. "For all your privilege, the greatest one is to have them as your spouse. They will nurture your independence as much as you desire to coddle them for all of their suffering. You will become a great leader and they will guide your hand. The foundation of your dynasty is made with mud and tears but it will support something beautiful and prosperous."

That was it? It was over? She dismissed him sweetly and he stumbled out, dazed and deep in thought.

Why would there be tears? Happy tears, he hoped! You and Kalim had never fought, much less raised your voices at each other! He didn't know his brows were knit with concern until Jamil placed a tentative hand on his shoulder. Kalim blew out a heavy sigh, feeling himself relax at the touch he didn't know he needed.

"Good?" Jamil's brow quirked with curiosity. Per the tradition, Kalim could not share the fortune-teller's words with anyone. It had to unfold as she described. She would tell his parents and things would go from there. Worry gnawed at him, twisting his guts into knots as he realized not even you could know.

"Yeah," Kalim mumbled. That was a bit slow for Jamil's liking. Kalim wouldn't look at him directly and was twisting the biggest earring in his left ear. He was nervous about something, Jamil observed.

"Then you have a week to enjoy. Be happy." Jamil patted him on the back as they made their way to the main house.

As expected, his parents were thrilled with the news. His mother was conflicted with the idea of her little one blossoming into a man, of course, but could not deny she was intrigued by a 'beautiful and prosperous dynasty'. How many grandkids was that, exactly? Maybe she could pull the fortune-teller aside and ask her in private! Kalim had aspirations of a big family, like his father, so her imagination was running wild.

Kalim's heart squeezed at his father's large, comforting hand. The half-hug pressing him to the reassuring belly was also nice. "Don't fret over the tears, my son. Tears are like rain in the desert, they help things grow."

"No relationship is perfect, anyways!" his sister waves her hand in the air, "everyone screams and cries at some point!"

"For different reasons!" his brother cackled, dodging two of her slaps. She swung a silk pillow with gold threads and teardrop rubies hanging from the corners. He yelped when the rubies smacked him, complaining to their mother.

"It will be fine!" his mother swooped down to pinch his cheeks. Her perfume swirled around him and Kalim couldn't help but break out into a smile. "You've sunshine in your soul, my love, and people will always want the light. Don't worry!"

"Are they staying for the whole break?" his sister asked, voice curious and sweet as she maintained eye contact with her cowering brother, pillow poised for another blow.

"That's the plan!" Kalim smiled.

His sister gave a squeal that made them both cringe. "I have so many ideas! I have to make some calls!"

The plan was for Kalim to spend the night with you in Ramshackle, give you a quick run-through of his siblings, and bring you to his home in the Scalding Sands in the morning. You were the first person he'd ever brought home on break and it was a very big deal.

He steps through the mirror with kisses from his mother and siblings still tingling on his skin. Kalim loves his family dearly but he's happy all of the pressure, worry, and excitement is on the other side of the mirror. The magic crackles over the surface, dies, and becomes a still pool. It's not until Jamil nudges him gently with one of the bags that Kalim realizes he was lost in his own reflection.

His own thoughts.

Most of the groceries and luxuries are restocks for his and Jamil's room in Scarabia but there's a few things for you. Kalim always liked to bring gifts over when he visited even though you've told him a million times that he was the gift. Jamil's threatening the boundaries of his role as a watchful servant to house Al-Asim when he tells Kalim to go straight to you and that he'll come to Ramshackle in an hour. It's a dangerous game they play, Kalim constantly overanalyzing the technicalities of what he can get away with to give Jamil some semblance of freedom and him, his independence, but as long as neither one of them say anything it works.

The white-haired boy chuckles to himself as he realizes he has, in fact, become more independent since knowing you. Sure NRC is protected with charms and enchantments but that still counts, right? He knocks on your door and you answer in your comfy clothes. Kalim feels his heart flutter and melt; you may have holes in the hem of your shirt and your pants are slightly too big because they're from a thrift shop but it doesn't take away from how beautiful you are.

In this moment he thinks his mother is wrong. You must be the sun and he, a sunflower, because he's always looking in your direction. There is nowhere he wants to be but with you and he is ever-reaching. You're chastising him about bringing gifts--again!--but he doesn't hear it. The second you arms circle around him, warm and soft, all of his senses fall away except for the one that registers your touch.

It's better than any massage he's ever gotten. It's as if his soul is a precious infant and you are the ultimate protection. The best comfort.

You manage to get him out of the doorway and Kalim laughs as you become an awkward tangle of limbs. He separates just long enough to set up the treats and show you the gifts--a silk pillow, a body scrub, a hair mask, and another set of sleepwear--before fishing out the little cards he'd made.

It's a huge stack! He sees your wide eyes and giggles as he pulls you against him, rubbing your arm comfortingly. "I have a lot of siblings, remember?"

"There's over thirty!"

"I have a lot of siblings," he repeats, cheeks heating up.

Jamil uses one of the three spare keys you made and finds you curled together, Kalim snoring quietly in the crook of your neck. The floorboard creaks under his foot and your eyes snap open. He sees the hand in Kalim's hair flinch but he doesn't move. Kalim's handmade family cards are all over the small coffee table, as are some half-eaten snacks. "Get ready," he whispers to you, "it's going to be an experience."

Jamil's words left you not knowing what to expect but you certainly couldn't predict the towering, ornate palace or the sheer number of white-haired people ready to drown you in the impressive entryway. Hands pulled you from all directions, hugs coming two at a time. You tried to turn your head at the feel of someone touching you hair but couldn't. Someone grabbed your face and you found yourself staring into Mrs. Al-Asim's eyes. "My grandchildren will be lucky to have such eyes!" she teased.

Kalim grabs you now, laughing nervously as he weaves through the siblings like it's nothing. You take a relieved breath and look back on the crowd. They've settled but you can definitely see where Kalim gets his excited puppy look. He introduces you to his mother and father first, breaking his siblings up into two groups: those older than him and those younger than him. One of his siblings is a literal toddler and it makes you wonder how old Mrs. Al-Asim is because she's as youthful and exuberant as Kalim!

Flawless, really. Good genes!

Said toddler has been watching everyone come up and hug you or shake your hand. He waddles up to you and plops himself down on your foot, hugging your leg. One of the older girls scoops him up as he giggles, another yanking you away and down a series of massive halls. Kalim tries to take you back but one of the girls ushering you along calls something out in their language and the kids swarm him.

"That's a dirty trick and you know it!" Kalim yells.

The room you spill into is just as massive as any other part of the manor. You take in the gold thread on the carpet, the expensive-looking vases, and nearly faint at a walk-in closet that looks big enough to fit the first floor of Ramshackle in it.

You're beginning to understand what Jamil said about the whole thing being 'an experience'. It was just luxury upon luxury with the Al-Asims! Some of the girls were holding up pre-made outfits, telling you not to be discouraged because you would have a custom outfit within a few hours. Others were holding rolls of uncut fabrics under your chin at the advice of a...color analyst? Someone is measuring your waist and it makes you flinch.

You can't give it much thought after one of the sisters ask if you're a 'jewelry person' and they start bickering about what would suit you. You can't even begin to imagine how much what they're holding costs! It feels like you're in there for hours but you come out with a casual outfit, one for swimming, one for shopping, one for the dinner party, and a different style of sleepwear you'd never seen before. There's more to come, they promise, but this is decent enough to start. Stunned by the opulence and generosity, they drag you back through the halls to show you off.

Your heart is fit to burst with how welcoming the Al-Asims are. It makes tears prick at the corner of your eyes. Kalim looks like he wants to cry, too. His mother and father assure your safety, thank you for being so precious to Kalim, and welcome you into their culture with the wish that you embrace it. The kids promise to teach you all kinds of words and it makes you laugh.

The outfit is colorful and you're glad it covers you because you'd probably burn to a crisp otherwise. You walk over to Kalim, trying not to stumble in the shoes as you get used to the feel of things breezing and jingling around you. He catches you and his eyes start to sparkle with tears again. "Did I step on your toe?" you joke.

"You look so pretty, hayati!" he sniffles like he can stop the tears from slipping down his face. Kalim is always daydreaming of your future together but something about the realness of you being in his arms, wearing traditional Scalding Sand garb, hits his tender heart hard.

"Come on now, stop crying. We can't do anything fun if you're crying!" you dab at his eyes with a flowy sleeve and he leans into you.

"That's one of our words!" one of the kids points at Kalim. "Do you know what that means?"

"My life," you reply, taking Kalim in your arms like you have a million times before. Every time he's ever said it, actually.

One of his brothers walks by and teases him about teaching you sweet nothings. Kalim glares at him from your shoulder, pouting. He points at his brother and yells something. The kids take off after him. "I told them he's 'it' for the next round of tag!" Kalim beams, satisfied with himself.

Your first day in the Scalding Sands is an innocent one of meeting family, playing games, and having a delicious dinner that isn't unlike one of the parties at Scarabia. Kalim is by your side at every opportunity. Some of his younger siblings try to feed you and teach your how to eat the food, ignoring Kalim as he politely explains you're big enough to feed yourself. He's trying to keep them from choking you with food but can't deny that you look adorable with your cheeks packed like a squirrel.

The party winds down and you fall into your usual habit of picking up everything. Jamil hisses at you to stop but you ignore him. Kalim saves the moment by swooping in to collect things, too. It's clear the help is stunned and trying not to look too surprised in front of his parents. "Ah, I see," his mother laughs over her glass, "your sanadi."

Kalim whines, guiding you hurriedly to the kitchen, clicking his tongue at you before you take a wrong turn. He removes his bracelets and gives you gloves to wear, putting on a pair of his own soon after. It's not until you're wrist deep and washing the dishes that you ask what the new word meant.

"'Sanadi' means backbone." he blushes, suddenly very interested in the custom plates, "it's a term of endearment in the Scalding Sands."

"I like it," you smile at him.

Your first night in the massive palace is odd. You know you're in one of the most protected places in the world but it's new and the shadows and sounds make you nervous. Trying to focus on the obscenely soft pillows and comfy sheets help a little. You're almost asleep when a noise outside the window draws your attention. A little wary, you open the window.

"Want a preview before the girls run you all over the Sands tomorrow?" Kalim offers you his hand, carpet fluttering patiently underneath him.

"Sure. Couldn't sleep anyways," you shrug. He secures your hands, body over yours to protect you from the windchill as he points out details in the palace before telling carpet how to get past the garden and gates without being seen. Clearly he's snuck out enough for people to look skyward now and then.

Kalim's only fifteen minutes into describing the bazaar when he realizes you're asleep. He gives a breathy laugh, tugging gently on one of carpet's tassels to make him head back to the palace. Carpet glides smoothly into the still-open window of the guest room, rolling you back into the sheets as he flops onto a nearby chair. Kalim locks the window back and tiptoes to the bed, snuggling in beside you.

He doesn't know how long you slept, but it was long enough for people to look for him and realize he's not in his own bed. The door to your room bursts open, a chorus of squeaky 'Sanadi!'s pouring in with little feet. Kalim shrieks like he's being drowned in cold water when something much bigger jumps on the bed and it lurches your bodies, the tiny ones collapsing all over you with giggles. Crisp smacks echo in the room, Kalim tangled in the sheets and fighting for his life as his sister yells. You try to cover Kalim but the kids dive on you and press into you, seeking protection from the shoe's rage.

Kalim falls out of the sheets like he's just escaped a cocoon and can't use his legs. Blind with sleep, hair a mess, clothes wrinkled, he's piloted by the primordial fear of being a younger sibling at the mercy of an older one. He makes it around the door and down the hall.

You're allowed to dress yourself but the sisters insist on fussing and fawning over you, giving you this or taking away that before summoning bodyguards to escort you to...wherever they want, really.

It's hard for you to process that they can just do whatever they want at the drop of the hat. They don't have to panic crunch numbers or scour every possible inch of Ramshackle for a thaumark and you're stunned. You don't know why you are, but you are. The girls are sweet but they have no concept of reservations and they don't recognize their own entitlement--you think--because people are just as happy to cater to them as they are to ask.

You're taken to a very expensive, insanely exclusive spa that you've heard Vil mention before. No appointment needed, of course. Staff just seemed to materialize and rooms were just conveniently there. The girls are established here and the employees are familiar with their skin and favorites but you're a new face.

Your stomach clenches nervously and you wonder if they're judging you. Do they see a blank check or someone who looks out of place in the clothes you're wearing?

When they're given permission to charge the account but 'be reasonable' you wonder what reasonable is to an Al-Asim. You can't help the smile that cracks your lips when you think of Kalim and his many parades and parties. He thinks those are reasonable and they're quite extravagant.

'Reasonable' is a skin analysis and so many treatments--special steam, cleanser, toners, mask packs, funny lights, weird tools--in the comfiest bed-like table that you're not even sure you were awake for half of it. You're amazed by what you see in the mirror. You don't see someone who's fought overblots or eaten something questionable to keep from starving.

Dazed and ethereal, you're escorted to the next experience. You and the girls spend the day in the spa, this time in several soaking pools before finishing in a mud pack-body wrap combo. You're introduced to several native drinks and get some sort of special infusion. Whatever it is, the girls swear by it.

You're surprised Kalim recognizes you when you get back to the Al-Asim home. He sweeps you up and gives a surprised peep about how you smell and how soft you are. The embrace is short-lived because you're being dragged away to change for dinner. He makes up for lost time by sitting next to you and sneaking into your room again.

It's cute and a little harder than the night before. Some of his siblings stayed up to make sure he didn't just walk in. When you have that many siblings, you always have more than one plan. You and Kalim have to shush each other at times but you're happy to tell him about your day.

He's just as happy to listen. His heart relaxes when he realizes you had a mud bath and you're doing your best not to ugly cry because you feel clean and pampered and had a day where you didn't have to worry about anything.

That means everything came true and it's smooth sailing, right? Everything she said came true?

He kisses your tears away and lets the emotions dwindle into exhaustion, holding you close.

The rest of the week is a balance of playing with Kalim's siblings, finding fun things to do around the main house--or having them brought to the main house--and going out into public with a crazy amount of guards. The third day was a personal parade of animals not unlike a standard Scarabia party; Kalim and his siblings translated how to hold, care for, and feed them. You got to ride some of them!

You spent the fourth day taking in the local sights with Kalim, Jamil, and his sister. It was nice to get away from the splurging whirlwind of the Al-Asim girls and just be casual in the browsing. For all his wealth, Kalim blended seamlessly with the interesting hole-in-the-wall spots others seemed oblivious to. It was an interesting side of him.

Kalim promised the last day would be for you and him and he was keeping his word. You took off on carpet at first light, watching life trickle into the bazaar. He'd begged the kitchen staff for several baskets and you were enjoying a simple morning of people-watching and sharing food. When you were finished eating, he found someone who looked like they could use the rest of the food. Carpet tucked safely under his arm, Kalim took you to a shop you'd passed over yesterday.

"I want to get matching rings," he smiled.

Back in the world you came from, custom jewelry would take a week or more. In Twisted Wonderland you guessed magic made the process near-instantaneous. Or maybe they just had multiple hands on it since it was a request from an Al-Asim. You wouldn't be surprised if they had a file for the Al-Asims given how much jewelry they wore.

The ring was beautiful. It was a thin, elegant, curving design that looked like a blooming flower with a ruby in the middle. It reminded you of Kalim's eyes. Kalim's ring shared the curving, elegant design, but his flower hadn't bloomed; the petals were flush against the jewel and almost crown-like. He'd just paid when the door to the shop burst open.

Neither of you were surprised. You half-expected it to be Jamil. Or one of his siblings.

You were both wrong. Very wrong.

You had no idea who these people were or what they wanted. Had they been watching you since yesterday? Earlier in the week? They rushed you and you thanked the Seven that they didn't immediately draw their magi-pens. It gave you the time to sock one of them.

There was a brief moment of stillness when they saw his head snap back. Four strangers realized they didn't know you or what you were capable of. Before they realized you didn't have a magi-pen, you kicked one as hard as you could in the knee. He buckled, sinking enough for you to punch him hard in the stomach.

You felt one of Kalim's arms wrap around your middle, yanking you back to his chest. He thrust his magi-pen forward and you held your breath. Kalim was far more valuable without a scratch or burn.

And they assumed you were valuable to Kalim. They were right. Kalim was so focused on anticipating a spell, on getting his protections ready, that he didn't anticipate a physical attack. He started sliding across the shop floor when they got the idea to rip you away.

It took three of them but Kalim wasn't done yet. He wasn't beaten. They escape in an uncoordinated stumble and Kalim's hot on their heels, taking to the skies and firing off spells from carpet. They fire back but between trying to keep you from running and aiming up at a moving target, he has the advantage.

Until they run through the bazaar, of course. There's so many people now that he struggles to keep his eyes on you. He almost loses you once or twice but he can hear you yelling. You call his name and he'll always hear it.

Kalim's not surprised they managed to sneak out of the bazaar into somewhere semi-abandoned. The bazaar wasn't always a bazaar; it used to be a small community. Pockets of old homes remained. People sold them for ample compensation but vendors found them off the beaten path and not as lucrative so they sat, unused.

A spell caught him by surprise, carpet veering sharply and almost throwing him off. Kalim patted his little singed tassel, peeking over the fringe to fire off a spell of his own. Carpet wove through the air, doing his best to keep Kalim safe but let him see through broken windows and open entryways. His goal was to confuse them, have all the attention on him and give you time to escape.

Kalim saw you bolt out of the home and gave carpet a tug. You were halfway to carpet, kicking up sand, when the men charged out. The jewel in his pen was starting to darken but Kalim knew he wasn't at his limit. Something in him snapped; he saw red when those men dove atop you like rabid dogs.

"Respite in the scalding sands, a neverending party. Dance! Sing! Oasis Maker!"

The sky turned dark and ominous in an instant, a cool shadow stretching over the sand. The rumble echoed Kalim's brewing rage. With a hair-raising crack, the rain poured out in a fierce deluge. It was icy, heavy, and stung like a whip. Carpet sagged under the weight of the water; Kalim guided him down carefully, squinting against the downpour to find you.

Why weren't the firing off spells? Were their clothes too heavy? Did it hurt too much to move? Could they not see? Kalim's suspicions were high and he could only assume that any grass magic wasn't strong enough to cut the water and fire was pointless.

He took advantage of the situation and fired off a few smaller water spells. They were boosted by Oasis Maker. It almost felt wrong, knocking them around like toys, but he didn't care. Oasis Maker dwindled to a drizzle, then stopped, when he saw you trying to crawl through the mud.

He couldn't help but laugh as the fortune-teller's words finally made sense. It was weird to have his face half-numb from icy rain and still be able to feel his tears. It took effort, but he managed to pull you out of the mud with a wet squelch! The two of you sat, stunned and freezing, just looking at each other for a moment.

He wiped water and mud off of you. You immediately grabbed his pen and started checking his hands. "You feel okay? You're not going to overblot?!"

"I'm fine, sanadi. As long as you're fine, I'm fine." Kalim breathed, resting his lips against your forehead.

He composes himself and looked at how utterly stuck the men are in the mud. Some of them probably need to be observed for drowning; they probably inhaled enough water to feel like they were drowning. Serves them right, Kalim thinks as his nose turns up in a sneer. Carpet does as Kalim wishes, carrying him to the nearest guard to report the event.

Kalim picks mud out of your ring and cleans it with his drenched shirt as carpet takes you back to the main house. There's no way in hell anyone will let you bathe together but he can dream.

He can also dream that he won't get his ear pulled off. Kalim was surprised to feel his father's warm, firm hand on his ear after he stepped onto Al-Asim property. Usually it was his mother's. Hissing through his teeth, Kalim risks a look back to see you getting swarmed and dragged by his sisters and mother. There's multiple people shouting in a language you're beginning to understand but you don't need to know anything to know you're in trouble.

"Welcome to the family," Jamil mumbles under his breath as he takes instruction from Mrs. Al-Asim to fetch Kalim some dry clothes.

[obeymeluv]

I started pulling on the Tweels’ merform banners because I stan Octavinelle and Jade is the good brother. Jade came home.

Floyd did not. Floyd is bad 😡

[obeymeluv]

Character Poll (Pt 1)

[obeymeluv]

Currently working on a Kalim x Reader that may or may not be out tonight. Can't stay up too late because I have work tomorrow. It should definitely be out by 4/28/25 or 4/29/25 if it's not out tonight.

Feel free to send in ideas for other stuff! At this point I have half of a "We had a baby! (For a Grade?)" planned out for Silver and Azul but that's it.

Have something half-cooked for Lilia but it's not all the way there.

Thinking of doing a thing where they wake you up with breakfast. Or a different one with how they shared a bed with you (positions you guys sleep in).

Might update the Floyd thing with the other two parts I couldn't put out the other day.

[obeymeluv]

I'm Not a Zigvolt but I Bite [Sebek x Reader]

Sebek's sister gets kidnapped by a crazy fae hunter and you go save her without telling anyone

-- Not proofread. Will review on my next day off and fix as needed.--

Sebek may not be the most openly lovey-dovey partner but he cares in his own way. His own stubborn, 'twist my arm' kind of way. He's better about it in private but the more time you spent with his family, the more you understood. All three Zigvolt children deferred to their mother and it was a big surprise to see them rub noses as they entered the house, accepting the hug. They hissed and gurgled in their father's general direction but he didn't seem to be offended.

Quite the opposite in fact.

You felt a little silly standing there, wondering if you should stretch on tip-toes and rub noses with her. She seemed to read your mind; Sebek's mom raised a hand and you did the same, expecting a handshake. You squeaked when she scooped you up effortlessly, swinging you back and forth. "They're so cute, Becky!"

"Your nickname is Becky?" you turn your head to Sebek, his cheeks burning a fierce pink. He turns away from you but you can see red on the back of his ears.

You yelp as Sebek's mother swings you violently towards his father. "Look, honey! Cute, right?"

"Of course, dear!" he toasts you with a cup of something. "But maybe don't swing so hard. I think Lilia said they're fully human?"

"True. Sorry, I forget my own strength when I'm excited!" she laughs, her smile a bright and beautiful testament to the fact that Sebek's father is a dentist.

"Human? Totally human?" his brother and sister are upon you now, towering over you like Sebek does. His mother plunked you down in front of them; you do your best to calm your nerves and not swallow too thickly because they sense fear (literally).

"Don't be rude!" Sebek slides in between you and his brother as his sister squeezes your arm experimentally, flipping your wrist over and taking it in her hand. His brother stops sniffing you, a controlled bellow rolling in his closed mouth. Sebek's brow pinches as he gives a similar noise, puffing his chest out and bumping it against his brother's.

His sister is nice enough to pull you away seconds before they start snarling and clicking their jaws at each other. You hear Sebek growl as his brother sinks his teeth into his arm; they turn into a blur of limbs.

"Welcome to the family!" Sebek's father laughs as you take refuge with the only other human.

"Squishy, but I think you'll do okay," his sister decides. She teethes your wrist curiously and you jerk your hand away on instinct. There's a faint red scratch from her teeth.

"Don't bite the guests!" his mother admonishes.

"Grandpa told me to do it as a test! You have to see how strong their bones are! If their bones are week, so is the rest of them!" she defended. Sebek's dad snorts into his mug.

The first meeting was a little chaotic but you'd slowly endeared yourself to the Zigvolts. You'd been to see them six or seven times but didn't meet Baur Zigvolt until the third. Lilia said he was nicer than he looked but he still reeked of intimidation; you could tell he was putting on his best 'soft' face even though he looked indifferent. He was like a cat; he wouldn't run if you sat in his space but he didn't come to you. You were lucky to get a blink of acknowledgement.

Lilia managed to unearth a 'they're an adequate partner for my grandson, I suppose. They make him happy.' which is practically a blessing. It explained why he gave you an enchanted dagger on the fourth visit. The handle was made from shed scales and Baur swore it could get you out of any net. He said he'd used it several times in the war and he hadn't seen something it couldn't cut through.

You really felt welcomed into the family when Sebek's dad offered to check your dental work on the down-low. Sebek's mom may or may not have threatened Crowley with 'being plucked and nutless' if he didn't raise your allowance to something a little more comfortable. After her visit he miraculously found extra money in the budget.

You felt like you could breathe for the first time since coming to Twisted Wonderland. A future seemed possible instead of grim and questionable.

That future was shattered when you opened the mailbox at gate leading to Ramshackle. There was a note addressed to Sebek Zigvolt. He wasn't here and Ramshackle wasn't his address. Your red flags were waving at full speed; you decided to open the letter and apologize later.

You didn't recognize the stamp at the end but the message was clear: his sister had been kidnapped. Letter clenched in your fist, you took off to Diasomnia. Sebek had cautioned you against recent visits despite invites; you vaguely remembered something about his sister trying to date someone and Baur putting his foot down. Though Baur would never hurt his granddaughter, the fights were constant. Apparently he'd reached out to his network of fae friends and requested an investigation on her human.

Allegedly he had ties to modern anti-fae groups.

That allegation was looking very true. Out of breath, you barged into Diasomnia. A few Diasomnia members tried to stop you from entering the room--the crashes and shouts were audible--but you pushed them away and shouldered the door open. Sebek was distraught; his face was pink with frustration and the vein across his temple was prominent.

His yellow-green eyes were wet with tears.

"We got one too," Lilia murmured, closing the door and cutting off the curious, worried views into the trashed room. You didn't think a piece of furniture survived. Pillow feathers littered the floor; his sheets were ripped to shreds but you couldn't tell if it was by claw or tooth.

Clearly the guy knew enough but didn't know everything. You wondered how many letters had been sent as you compared the two. It was the first time you'd actually read it and couldn't believe there was an actual address on the back! Lilia and Silver started picking up the room, Sebek and Malleus in the middle of phone calls. As much as you wanted to comfort your boyfriend, your feet took you in another direction.

Your thoughts were rattling off as fast as your heartbeat, lungs pushed to their limit. This guy was expecting a fae to save another fae. Not a human. He'd be practically defenseless if a HUMAN came, right? All of his tricks were for fae!

Lucky for you, you had tricks of your own. Tricks that might require Sam and the tweels, but tricks all the same. You ran back to Ramshackle to grab the dagger just in case. Having something enchanted couldn't hurt, right? You snatch up one of Sam's enchanted bags and head to the shop.

The shadows were happy to see you, darting around the aisles and circling your feet. "Sam!" you breathe, slapping your hands down on the counter, "I need you to make me a really important deal?"

"I'm all ears, Little Imp!" he smiles, leaning on the counter.

"Let me take what I need and I'll bring back whatever I don't use! If I use it, I'll bring money for it!"

He'd certainly never heard such a thing. You've never asked for this kind of deal before. His brow began to furrow suspiciously, eyes reading yours. It wasn't the type of urgency he saw with kids trying to buy last minute 'focus chews', but something deeper. He could tell by the way the shadows fluttered that it was serious.

"Just this once." He pointed at you.

You took off down the aisles and he wondered what you were preparing for. The first thing you thought of were the living sticky notes; you'd seen Floyd make them into paper airplanes and send them around the classroom when he was bored. That'd be a good distraction! There was a screwdriver that ate screws as you worked so you didn't lose them; this guy probably had iron traps to disable.

If this guy really was anti-fae, who knew what condition Sebek's sister was in? You grabbed some snacks and drinks just to be safe. A can of hairspray caught your eye and you paused; it wasn't the brand Vil used but he said it was comparable and worked in a pinch. You'd heard him say it could really hold hair (and Jamil confirmed bugs couldn't FUCKING move if it touched them). There wasn't time to debate anything else; you heard Sebek's unmistakable voice echoing at the front of the store.

Sam motions for you to head out the back and you do, set on hitting Octavinelle before catching a bus into town. You don't realize a shadow slipped into your bag and you're none the wiser as you negotiate a couple syringes of the Tweels' blood from the three of them. They'd made one too many jokes about their blood being poisonous to humans before you saw the effects in person; Azul had to find a heavy-handed way to make a point without using detectable magic on his more 'difficult' clients and the Tweels were the answer. If you hadn't forgotten your only coat at the lounge, you never would've seen what happened to the poor guy.

Azul attempted to negotiate something but the Tweels were too interested in what you were going to do. The most you ever asked for was more hours or to take an 'accident' meal home. They shushed him; the blood came from them so they could give it away! "I feel like it will be an interesting story," Jade smiles and it's the first time you see Floyd in him, "be sure to come back and tell us."

You don't know how you managed to avoid the Diasomnia crew but you made it onto the bus and into the city. The address led to a processing factory and your instinct was to scoff because it smelled like a movie setup from your world. Instead of an ice factory or meat plant, however, it was a pharmaceutical center. That made the hairs on your neck stand up.

Were they using fae for pharmaceuticals? What could you possibly make out of a crocodile fae?

On second thought, I don't want to know, you purse your lips as you look at the building. It didn't look as modern as the others on the block but the gate was upgraded. Were they trying to make it look abandoned? Less suspicious? Did these people not know property records could be checked for activity?

It was more surprising to you that they didn't have cameras. Maybe it's because fae couldn't be caught on camera easily? The scent of iron hits you, heavy enough to leave a tang in your mouth. You grab the fence and shimmy your way up, glad you had to learn how to climb and repair Ramshackle's roof during your time in Twisted Wonderland. You land clumsily on the other side of the fence, hissing at your knees.

The grass looked unkept but it hid a smattering of daisies and primrose. You rip up as many as you can find on your way to the building. You may not remember everything Lilia's told you about fae-plant knowledge, but you know these are deterrents and protective measures against them.

Did this guy have a group or was he working on his own? You didn't even know. Deeming the yard clear enough, you hide on the side of the building and start folding little airplanes. They buzz and poke like a pocket full of hornets but don't hurt. The doorway is lined with salt and you scoff, scrubbing it away with your foot.

The door swings shut behind you and you find yourself in a large, dimly-lit space. It's cold here; you can feel goosebumps on your arms. A bright light explodes and you wince against it, putting up your hand.

"Where's the rest of you?"

"I don't need them," you bluff.

"Why aren't you shrinking away, creature?! Light's supposed to hurt you!"

"Not all of us." you roll your eyes. "Someone didn't do their homework."

You can't see for shit but he doesn't have to know that. Maybe he'll come to you. The guys who think they can't be touch and have planned for everything usually do stupid stuff like that. Conveyor belts and large machines take shape in your vision as the light leaves but you don't have time to register them before a sucker punch knocks you to the ground.

"How'd you get past the defenses?" he surprises you with a right hook, other hand coming to your throat. For a minute it catches you off guard and you squeak. His eyes narrow, cold and dark as he sneers above you. "Why are you so easy to hit? So weak?" he squeezes your throat experimentally and you cough.

"I'm," you suck in a breath as your brain scrambles through the moves Lilia has taught you. His grip is tightening. You think back on the playfights you've had with Silver, Sebek, and his siblings. The sting of them being easy on you hits now, bites harder than ever, and you resort to Lilia's age-old advice of 'there is no fair in a fight'. "I'm a human!" you yell, kicking him in the balls as he wheezes and rolls off of you.

It certainly won't be enough to keep him down but it's a start. You gasp for breath, reaching blindly into your bag. The hairspray is pushed into your hand and your eyes widen as the shadow slinks out of the bag, melting into the floor. The "boyfriend" starts to push off the floor and you aim the can at him, spraying it directly into his eyes. He shuts them on instinct, as anyone would, and you think they've actually sealed together!

You catch your breath, impressed with yourself. You stand above the blinded man as the situation hits you. Somehow this is more confusing than dealing with the overblots. He feels blindly for you and you step back, barely keeping your ankle out of his grasp. A moment of cruelty overtakes you and you let the sticky notes out of your pocket.

They don't hurt him but they're annoying. It buys you time to look around for anything you can hit him with. There's big vats and tumblers but nothing small or convenient. The places reeks of metal and would probably make fae nervous about what would hurt them, though.

"Why are you doing this?" he yells, turning in a circle on his hands and knees as he swats at the sticky notes.

"Because that's my boyfriend's sister, asshole!" you jump on his back, beating him with the can of hairspray. You try to choke him out like you did Sebek's brother (on accident) and it almost works. He gets a handful of your hair and starts trying to drag you from behind him. One hand full of your hair and one gripping you by the pants, you panic as he stands and holds you above his head.

This is definitely something that happens right before a person's tossed onto their head or snaps their neck! You give a few panicked kicks before your bag slides down and smacks him in the face. It's hard to reach your bag since he's locked his arms; he didn't expect something to hit him in the face and you feel his grip loosen. Swinging your legs, you lock them around his neck as you fish for the syringes of blood.

His neck is thick so you can't choke him out.

You pull the cap off of one and stab it into the meat of his arm. He writhes in pain, flinging you off of shoulders. You hit the ground with a grunt, sucking in a breath. He trips over you, slipping on your ankle and kneeing you in the stomach on the way down. Halfway out from under him, you grab another syringe and stab him in the arm that wouldn't let go of your legs.

Getting him in both arms was enough, right? The symptoms varied, according to Jade and Floyd. It could be as innocent as the stomach bug or as serious as paralysis. Numbness wasn't uncommon, though. Sweating and cramps was pretty normal, though.

He looked like he was starting to sweat already. You wondered if that would undo the hairspray. You scramble to your feet, last syringe pointed out like a knife. Lungs heaving, one eye threatening to swell shut, you jam it into his ankle just to be on the safe side.

You take off.

The adrenaline is fading and it dawns on you why he chose somewhere cold. Much like Malleus, Sebek and his family didn't do well in the cold. It made them sleepy and less active. You start looking around for an area big enough to stash a human when something grabs your foot. "A shadow?" you watch it wind around your leg, wispy hand grabbing your shoulder as it settles behind you.

"Any chance you can help me find Sebek's sister?"

It squeaks and you follow it. You look back in the direction you came from, sure you can hear vomiting. The shadow leads you to a walk-in freezer and you pull it open. There, in a large net, is Sebek's sister. She's still and pale and your heart is in your throat.

You grab the net, poking her through the diamond pattern. She doesn't move. The net is weirdly sharp and you hiss as it cuts your fingers. Was this a net made out of metal or something?! It's stupid to do but you don't see any other option; you grit your teeth and drag the net to the open door so that psycho can't lock you both in there.

The shadow may not be able to help you if you get stuck. There's places even shadows don't like to go!

Dragging her is a slow process; she's heavy and the net is cutting into you. It doesn't help that you readjust and try to grab in different spots so she's easier to pull. You're halfway to the door when you get the idea to roll her onto her back, pick up her feet, and push her to the door. She's probably sliding easier because of all your bloody handprints but you don't think about that. Safely out of the freezer, you drop her feet and slowly cut away the net with her grandpa's dagger.

It's hard trying but you finally get her out. You'd apologize about the tears in her outfit later. Sighing as you mentally prepare yourself to lift her dead weight, you pull her across your back as best you can. Her dead weight makes you bend like an old person; she drags more than you like but you can walk under her if you don't think about it too much. Your next step is into a puddle of wispy shadow and you stumble as you reemerge near the door.

She falls off your back and you wince.

Her 'boyfriend' is sweaty, surrounded by puke, and looks like he's convulsing.

Not your problem.

"You couldn't do that earlier?" you shake your head at the shadow. It gives a squeak and flares up enough so it has shoulders to shrug.

You drop the net over him out of spite, searching the area for the syringes. Don't want the Tweels to be implicated in anything. You'd just collected the last one when the doorway clogs with people.

Is Baur...electrified right now?

"Everything's fine! All clear." you wave.

"My baby!" Sebek's mother scoops her up like she's nothing. Lilia appears at her side, handing her a fluffy black blanket you've seen before.

"Everything is most certainly not fine!" Lilia assess you, "come, beastie."

Sebek practically pounces on you, knocking Lilia aside as he yells things like 'HOW COULD YOU?' and 'WHAT WERE YOU THINKING?'

"I was thinking that he'd already caught one fae and he'd hurt the ones who came to help them." you say calmly, staring at him with the one eye you can still see out of. "He wouldn't know what to do with a human."

Sebek grips you by the shoulders. Hard. "You're infuriating." he shakes you. "And I love you."

"I love you too." you smile at him. He brings you into a crushing hug and you wince. There's a lot of sore stuff and you're not sure if anything is broken.

"The hunter, Queen Maleficia," Baur drops the boyfriend from his shoulders.

The tall, elegant woman nods at you and Baur. The black spots made her kind of hard to see. You start to say something but the words don't make it to your lips. The sound dies in your ears like someone pulling the plug on a TV.

You wake up in a hospital bed--the school infirmary?--and give a hum of delight when you can see out of both eyes. Your vision clears and Sebek becomes obvious, closest to your bed. His hand is holding yours. Malleus rises from his chair in the corner, offering it to Silver as Lilia makes a beeline for you and rummages in a bag. "Snack, beastie? You need to eat up and get your strength back!" he offers you some chips.

"In recognition of said strength, I have a gift for you, human." Queen Maleficia sweeps in softly, stepping to your bed with purpose. You find yourself wondering if she'd been waiting around for you or if she'd been summoned. She holds out two small velvet boxes and opens them to reveal a shiny onyx scale and a glimmering green one. "You have proven yourself courageous and devoted to the fae in your act of service to the Zigvolts and I, Queen Maleficia, seek to bestow you with the fae lineage of your choosing."

You stare blankly at the boxes, stunned. Fae can just..do that? Just make someone a fae just like that? Well, maybe she could. She's the queen and all. She's speaking to Lilia out of the side of her mouth, bent over, when your brain kicks in.

"What are they? Like...is one from a bug fae? I don't want to be a bug, you know? N-Not that bug fae are bad, of course!"

She lets out a lilting, rich laugh that makes you relax. "You may choose to be crocodilian, like the Zigvolts, or of draconic lineage like my grandson and I."

"Dragon!" you blurt immediately, eyes lighting up. Being part dragon sounded cool! The fact that the green scale could've come from Sebek's family, or Sebek himself, was an afterthought. Queen Maleficia nods and the whole box glows; the scale dissolves into a twinkling mist that drifts into your mouth.

"I'll take my leave," she fixes her dress, tucking the boxes away in a hidden pocket. "I have a meeting about that revolting hunter."

She disappears in the doorway and Baur takes her place, a band-aid on his cheek. He arches a brow curiously at his weeping grandson, only able to make out 'dragon' and 'great Malleus'. It's clear he doesn't hear you asking not to squeeze so tight and to let go.'

"They've chosen to be a dragon fae," Lilia laughs into his hand.

"I look forward to that great-grandchild." Baur snorts, leaning against the wall.

[obeymeluv]

Been thinking about this eel and wanted to explore his character some.

-- Floyd realizing he likes you/falling in love with you --

Not proofread because it's late.

I was going to add two more but I'm tired and wanted to put something out.

Trying to decide if I'm going to put out more new stuff or circle back around to older stuff.

I.

Floyd is used to things being in black and white. No nuances. It's like survival of the fittest--you live or you die. You're living in one of the harshest environments and his brain is constantly circling back to HOW? It baffles him because you have no claws, your teeth aren't designed for raw catching, and he hasn't met a lander alive that could run fast enough to catch their food unless it was near death.

So HOW are you doing this with no magic?

Under the sea if you couldn't provide for yourself, you made yourself useful. If you worked for his family, that meant serving as muscle or as an informant. You looked better for getting information out of people than you did squeezing them.

Well, not the way he and Jade squeezed people, anyways. You squeezed them with kindness.

Yeah, he'd heard rumors that you were doing odd little jobs like the Savanaclaw runt. Mostly making little lunches and snacks. Sometimes you'd do a 'dorm night dinner' where you went over to another dorm and cooked!

Azul had been begging you to cook for the Lounge, to do a limited-time meal deal, but you could make more money cooking for the dorms. It was funny to see the Octomer practically foaming at the mouth as he tried to calculate earnings versus an enticing deal to get said earnings.

As long as they're not doing anything else, Floyd's relaxed eyes sharpened as his brows knotted together in a suggestion of annoyance. But why did he care, right? The law of the ocean, of the mers, was doing what you needed to do, right?

Why did it bug him so much? He knew you weren't doing anything else but why did the idea that you would--or could--make him want to take someone down in a death spiral?

The spaces between his fingers began to itch as the webbing threatened to emerge.

You shuffle your way into History of Magic wearing something that Crowley slapped together; it doesn't fit you as well as it could but Trein is the last one to make an issue of it. Floyd's gold eye twinkles with interest as he spots the cup in your hand. He likes to think the tea he smells is from Jade since you work at the Lounge with them but it could also be from Kalim or Goldfishy.

The fact that you can have tea, a small luxury in this foreign world, impresses him.

Yes, you do quite well, don't you?

"Hey Floyd," you sit down with a sleepy smile, setting out your meager supplies before holding the cup happily in both hands.

Ah. That's how.

Your smile makes him squirmy and he wonders if that's what his prey feels like before they meet his pharyngeal jaws.

---

II.

He only gets into fights because he's bored. Usually. Every now and then he and Jade will be called down to the Coral to help their father with a 'business venture'; that's an exception. The only other exception is when Azul sends them on a 'last call' visit.

Except for the occasions where he and Jade defended Azul himself, of course. That was way back in their childhood when he and Jade would terrorize the absolute shit out of those hateful mer-brats! Memories of pulling their scales off without getting caught or biting chunks out of their pretty tailfins when trying to go after smaller fish bring a smile to his lips.

Today he found a fourth reason he didn't expect: you.

He wasn't surprised to see Savanaclaw harassing you, not totally. These beastmen were at the mercy of their instincts and traits, too. Mainly stupidity, but having creature influence didn't always help things.

Just like he couldn't help himself from striking when it was convenient. When he was sure he couldn't lose. Moray eels were consumed with cowardice unless conditions were favorable and on land all fights were in his favor. The beastmen were strong, sure, and physically fit but there was a difference between being built for power and built for speed.

Jade may have taken to his land legs first but Floyd was still nimbler than people gave him credit for. The long legs were deceptive, he knew. It also helped that he spent a lifetime in the Coral where the sea sculpted muscle and got him used to dealing with a resistance that didn't exist on land.

"Kinda dumb to mess with the hand that feeds ya, huh?"

Leona would have their ASSES if he knew they were corning you and trying to bully you. Maybe cop a feel? Floyd swung his fist forward the second one of them turned their head to acknowledge him and it was one.

It was a blur but he was used to that. The Coral had obscuring kelp beds, bursts of water carrying all kinds of debris, and seafloor sediment that provided nice cover when needed.

All you needed were teeth and claws. And the scent of blood.

One of them was bound to get a good lick in. He'd be disappointed if they didn't, honestly. The one who tried to grab his earring would know he did something wrong tomorrow; at least two of his fingers were broken. Broken fingers don't matter to an unconscious guy, though.

"I didn't need your help!" you're glaring up at him. Floyd can't help but laugh. He blinks blood out of his eye. Somewhere near his eyebrow there's a wound throbbing.

"'Course ya did, shrimpy!" Floyd leans towards you, genuine smile showcasing pointy teeth.

"No, I didn't! They were starting to back off!" you hiss, pointing up at him.

"And now they're all the way off." Floyd shrugged, poking one with his foot.

"I'm telling Jade," you scoff. You both know Azul won't let him into the Lounge like this. Floyd detests the infirmary and had to be dragged there when he fell ill with his first stomach bug (Jade and Azul thought he was dying). The nurse gets on his case and the area smells too clean and chemical-y for his liking.

He flops down, waiting patiently and highly amused as you rummage through your thrift shop bag for medical supplies. You'd learned to start carrying stuff on you between Grim's overzealous fire-casting and Riddle's overblot. Floyd hums contentedly as you blot his face, nose wrinkling reflexively when he smells the alcohol wipe. You dab ointment on the wound above his eyebrow, scoffing and pulling his chin out of the crook of your elbow. Floyd snorts, pressing his cheek against your arm.

You smack a band-aid over the wound and he clicks his teeth as you glide your finger over the tender part. "You're such a good shrimpy, taking care of your moray," Floyd teases you, yelping when you pinch his cheek before starting off for the Lounge.

He lets you get a good distance ahead before launching off the ground. "Floyd?! Floyd, no! Stop! Don't do it!" you made the mistake of turning your head to look at him as the grass crunched under his shoes, breaking out into a run.

You shouldn't dart off in front of a predator. That activates the hunting instinct.

His laugh echoes as he catches you effortlessly, scooping you up and throwing you into the air like a toy. "Don't worry shrimpy, I got ya!" Floyd laughs, tossing you again.

---

III.

You're hard to find on your days off and that's really annoying to him. Sometimes Vil whisks you away for a spa day, sometimes you're holed up with that blue-burning recluse playing video games. Floyd has turned up empty-handed more often than not, which is impressive considering he's a hunter by nature.

The prey is illusive. And kind of offending him since you're dating but you're not here right now. He'd come find you if it wasn't that time of the month where they were stuck in their true forms, waiting restlessly for the latest delivery of the transformation potion.

No one knows how it happened, really, not even him. Most mers trade trinkets or hunt for their partners but he didn't do any of that. Not officially. He'd cook you something the second you stepped into the Lounge and comb the waters around Sage's for interesting stuff to give you but you didn't acknowledge those courting attempts so they didn't happen. You thought the way he opened and closed his mouth was just a sign of boredom and never did it back.

So yeah, it took forever for you guys to be a thing by mer standards.

You guys were dating by lander standards, though. Little things like you keeping him awake in class and him walking you to the next. He'd buy you something to put in your hair and you'd wear it the next day. When Azul found out you were the only one who could tie his bowtie without him complaining or undoing it, it was his favorite part of getting ready for a shift. If Crowley wasn't so stingy with the phone he gave you, Floyd would be blowing it up.

He continued his lazy laps in the Octavinelle pool, clicking his teeth and sighing sadly. A moray really shouldn't be without their shrimpy. It was cruel.

As if he'd summoned you, you showed up with a float. It meant you wouldn't be swimming with him today but Floyd could live with that. "Don't even think about it!" you warn, hearing the water pitter behind you as he breaks the surface. Floyd has yanked you in more than once on your 'float' days, blaming it on his predator nature. Leaning down to look through the awkward tent of your arm, one foot splayed across the float and trying to draw it close as you wiggled onto it, you met Floyd's mischievous gaze.

The fins at the side of his head flutter, your boyfriend ducking down until his heterchromatic eyes just touch the water. He pulls strong arms slowly and dramatically from the water, setting them softly on the deck as he flexes the muscles of his hands and lets the light play on his claws. "Think about what?" Floyd can barely get the question out, laughing already. His pupils thin as you successfully push off on the float, sending yourself across the water.

Just like that, he's gone. You peer over the top of your float to keep an eye on the lazy, winding shadow. He moves faster than that, you've seen it! What is he--

"Delightful to see you!" Jade pops up at your back and you yelp, losing your grip on the top of your float. If not for Floyd being on the other side and slinging his corded arms over you, you'd be in the water. He laughs at your near-heart attack and the little scrunch in your nose as water flings all over you. "Sam hasn't gotten our order in, I take it?"

"No," you glare at Jade. "He hasn't."

The calmer twin smiles in his usual unbothered way. You've learned to see the sadistic delight in it now. "I'll let Azul know. We'll be working on things below if you need us. Thanks for keeping my dearest brother company." Jade makes his way down and doesn't miss the chance to flick more water on you with the last bit of tailfin. You hiss, rolling over into Floyd's waiting lips.

"Shrimpy!" he sings, genuine delight slipping into a low purr as he peppers kisses up the side of your face and heaves his slick body onto your float. He's unexpectedly soft due to the weird 'hydration' coat they make. It doesn't dull the prominence of his scales and the feel of scale and slick against your skin makes your spine tingle.

He's either going to drown you or shred your float. You're bobbing in and out of the water, head thrust up to try and keep something dry. Floyd knew your prey instincts would kick in and make you flail; he's practically purring at the fact you've wrapped your arms and legs around him. He throws himself back, arms behind his head.

You relax when you realize he's become your personal float. A float that's very happy with himself. You've ridden on his back before but lying on his chest was new; even with your arms around him it still amazed you how strong his back was. Especially his shoulders.

"Happy?" you lay your cheek on him, eyes drifting along the swirls of blue and teal that surround the whitish-gray of his chest.

"Happy!" Floyd hums.

[obeymeluv]

The Guys See You in a Fancy Dress/Wedding Dress Ideas: Dress Reference Guide

Hi All, Been a rough time lately with some good and some bad. I've been slug mode. This post was inspired by me going to my cousin's wedding. She was gorgeous <3. Note: This is implied fem reader and will be tagged as such. None of these links gave me an antivirus or pop-up warning so I think all sites are safe to browse. At this time, I do not have dress/wedding/fancy attire ideas for Kalim, Jamil, or Lilia. The rest are included.

No Ortho because Ortho is a baby. Probably your flower boy. Lol.

THIS IS JUST MY PERSONAL IDEA OF WHAT STYLES I THINK THEY'D LIKE. YOU CAN IMAGINE ANY COLOR.

BIGGEST, MOST IMPORTANT NOTE: ROOK'S is the THIRD and FOURTH image in the link. I couldn't isolate those two photos. The others ARE NOT IT. FOR MALLEUS: pick the BLACK option.

Blurbs to follow at some point.

Heartslabyul

Riddle pours more tea on himself than in your teacup.

Trey will bake you whatever you want. You'll have matching aprons and 'His' and 'Hers' cups.

Deuce will follow you like a lovesick puppy forever. The moon hangs in his eyes for you.

Ace isn't about fancy or stuffy. He just wants to be happy and free, making a day out of whatever you guys run into. He'll be with you every step of the way.

Cater thinks you look elegant, fun, cute, and totally cammable. Ooh, are you a #ship or #goals yet?

Savanaclaw

Leona will lie and say it caught his eye because of the sparkles or the wispy train but he's looking at you all day long.

Ruggie thinks simple and dreamy suits you. There's not a lot of money between you but looking like that, you could totally swindle someone. And he approves...from a distance.

Jack thinks it's classic and reliable, just like the two of you. People think you guys are a married couple already but no one's brave enough to tell you with him around.

Octavinelle

Azul is trying to get all three of his beating hearts to calm down. It's not working. The love and surprise is so strong he thinks the land potion is going to wear off way before it's time.

Jade can't even bring himself to tease you about how dangerous it is to have your neck and shoulders bare before a Corelian like him. He's can't even make a sentence.

Floyd thinks it's cute on his little shrimpy. It'll also be real fun to mess up.

Pomfiore

Vil's glad he has a nice side profile because anyone who takes a pic of him will only catch him looking at you.

Rook suddenly had all of the words and none of the words but he has plenty of kisses ready. (3rd and 4th pic only)

No frills, no lace! No muss, no fuss! Epel thinks it's perfect and practical. AND you don't have to grab a bunch of tulle or whatever in your hand so FUCKING RUN before Vil catches you two! Get to steppin'!

Ignihyde

Idia's not sure what to say since he's usually a hoodie and sweats kind of guy but it's most def a critical. SUPER EFFECTIVE! K.O.!

Diasomnia

Silver feels like he's had this dream before. Wait, this time it's not a dream!

Formal but fierce. Polite but pointed. Sebek won't admit you've got him rolling inside.

Malleus had Sebek take a picture of you and him. He didn't tell anyone he sent it to his grandmother. She comes to see you because a dress like that surely means you've been proposed to, yes?

[obeymeluv]

His Favorite Part of You {2} [Random TWST x Reader]

There's a lot to like about someone but it's hard to put into words :/

Jade skims the famous lander magazines from time to time and has seen his fair share of interesting things; one that sent him in a spiral was a poll called 'Things Partners Like About Each Other!'

There were many things he liked about you, though he'd be loathe to tell anyone. A lot of them were answers in that poll: smile, eyes, voice, but that didn't suffice. The more he thought about it, the more he thought of your skin. Your skin was smooth and soft. It could be powdered and lotioned to smell however you wished! That was quite fascinating; the land potion suppressed his webbing and scales, made his coloring more normal, toned down his natural mucosal protections to an enviable dewy look, but he was chemically compatible with very few products.

Sad, really.

But you looked and smelled lovely all the time. Even when you had a blemish or a scar, your skin caught his eye. He imagined it to be a unique scale, like you were maturing into your stripes, and he loved you all the more.

---

Kalim loves your eyes. To him, they are more beautiful than any jewel he owned. He thinks you look especially lovely when he lines them in kohl or when Vil steals you to give you a break from the chaos with a makeover. Although he tries his hardest to pay attention in class, his mind often wanders around the room and he delights in trying to find something close to your eye color. His favorite thing about them, he thinks, is the way they crinkle when you see him.

---

Azul admires your kindness and keeps a careful eye on it. He told you once that you'd be eaten alive for it. Kindness is rare in Twisted Wonderland. Rare enough to capitalize, he'd daresay, though he wouldn't DREAM of making it available to anyone else. Somehow, as if you know his soul, you make everything better when he needs it most.

It comes in many forms--adjusting part of his suit when he gets too excited, forcing him to eat the sweet he really doesn't want to deny himself, walking with him to make up for sitting so long--but his favorite kind is when he goes for that hug at the end of the day and just melts into you.

Everything just melts away in a gentle tide that soothes him.

---

Sebek's instinct is to deny he likes anything about you but EVERYONE knows he has a crush on you. He holds strong with Silver, an unflinching wall of secrets, but Malleus asks and he crumbles. Your attitude is what he settles on. Malleus finds it amusing, Lilia a bit vague, but Sebek thinks it rightly encompasses you. Sebek admires how you face a losing battle every day, being a non-magical human in a place such as this, marvels at how you blend so seamlessly among everyone he cannot, and admires how you scrape by on tests even though it makes him want to pop a blood vessel.

Yes, you may not see it, but you're something to admire. You've never given up or backed down and he likes that a lot. Stupid human.

---

Idia likes your voice and he thinks it's because he doesn't always use his in a normal setting. It's fine to hide behind a tablet but every time he has an IRL interaction he either clams up or talks at turbo speed and no one understands him, anyways. Then the heart-clutching deafening silence sets in, confusion shortly after, and his panic meter is at MAX!

You make all of that better. You hear him and clarify when he descends into stutters. When Ortho isn't around to translate his netspeak, you deliver and he just stands back with a smile. Some of his favorites include 'hi', 'good night', and 'I love you.'

He wants to make a character mod and tried to get you to record voice lines but you said no. It seemed unfair at first but when you granted him a 'super premo, limited run, VIP all-access pass' to the real thing, he can't complain.

A one-of-one SSR? HELL YEAH!

[obeymeluv]

Getting Kidnapped was Not on the List! [Malleus x Reader]

Trigger warnings: Mentions of being eaten alive. Mentions of body pain/descriptions of shifting.

Not proofread.

The future king of Briar Valley isn't sure why he has such a feeling of impending doom, but it worries at him. He looks out the window of his room in Diasomnia as if he can see across the cobblestone and into town where you're supposed to be shopping right now. Malleus hums, green eyes narrowing as the book he's reading presses into his lower lip.

Yes, something is certainly amiss.

He feels tingly, like his very nerves are pricking and sparking at something. Malleus stands to his full height, putting the book down as he makes his way outside. There's nothing unusual in the sky, no ominous clouds, but he feels the shimmer of a glamour in the air.

It's faint, but he can sense it. Nowhere near the school, he'd gather. Wherever it is, he can't quite pinpoint it. He heads back inside to grab some snacks for the crows and ravens that call the trees around Diasomnia home. Hearing the familiar rattle of croutons, seeds, and nuts, a few of them perk up and call curiously. "Come, my friends!" Malleus encourages, sitting on the stone bench outside the dorm. They swarm, wings fluttering impatiently as he picks balanced handfuls and lays them at their feet. "Now that you're fed," Malleus leans down to them and speaks casually, like he's having tea with Sebek or Lilia, "would you mind doing a bit of scouting for me? There seems to be an active glamour and I'm curious. You would be rewarded handsomely, I assure you." They take off and he chuckles. Loyal familiars, birds. His grandmother adores them, too. Malleus brushes crumbs and bits from his pants, pushing off of the bench. All at once his chest seizes and Malleus startles.

It's enough to knock the air out of him. Is it...terror?

His phone rings in his pocket and he fishes for it, growling through the fluttering squeeze in his chest. "Hello?"

"Malleus! Help me, please!"

"Child of Man?! What's wrong?!" Malleus felt his fangs growing, threatening to cut his own tongue. The tremble in your voice, the fear, sent his stomach churning and boiling. He could feel the muscles in his back rippling as he lost his grip on his own glamour, the extra ligaments and bones needed for his wings threatening to tear his human shoulders as he staved off shifting from a biped to a quadruped.

"You dare call upon the future king?!" he heard a voice sneer with rage and disbelief. "Insolent, disgusting thing!"

"How dare you?!" Malleus roars, wincing as his jaw pops a little. His human mouth pales in comparison to the wide maw of his dragon form. Pearly teeth click against each other as they begin lose their human shape. "You shall not address my Child of Man in such a way!"

"My liege, please--"

"You call me liege but fail to state your name! That is TRUE insolence!" Malleus feels the claw on his thumb cut his cheek. He doesn't care. "To WHOM do I speak?"

"E-Elm Leafdance, sire."

The name is somewhat familiar. He vaguely recalls a miserly fae always moping about and telling old tales about horrible humans. Everyone in the castle could recite them word for word. Lilia was at odds with him, he recalled. At one point Elm had been accused of kidnapping Silver but Lilia never made a formal complaint before the court so it faded into obscurity.

"Unhand my Child of Man, Leafdance! If you have qualms with them, I shall be addressed in their stead. Come to me at once!"

"A most generous offer, young king," the fae is stuttering now, "but leaving would prove costly to, your, um...Child of Man..."

He can barely comprehend through the haze of rage. Malleus feels his chest burning to a nauseating degree, the green fire begging to be set free. Wisps of smoke slither from his lips. He snorts, expelling most of it. If Leafdance cannot leave you unattended, that means you're at the mercy of some kind of enchantment with sentience that he controls.

That sentience would diminish with distance and who knows how that would leave you? Clearly you're being restrained if it would prove 'costly'. The idea of you being in any peril ESPECIALLY from a fae has Malleus seething. His phone is barely holding on; Malleus can feel the fractured screen poking his cheek.

He turns sharply towards Diasomnia, half-floating as he jumps from ledge to crenel, climbing up a merlon to stare at the town in the distance. "Raise your sigil and I shall come to you." Malleus snaps the phone even though he tried to mash the 'end call' button. Putting his thumb through it just pressed everything inward and it crumpled like a can.

Malleus casts the broken phone aside, watching the sky out of the corner of his eye as he ascends the main tower of Diasomnia. It is one of the taller point on campus, only rivaled by NRC itself. He hunches, releasing his glamour.

His grand shadow looms over Diasomnia, wings stirring gusts as he launches off the stone. The stone crumbles a bit, his claws leaving scratches. Malleus doesn't remember the last time he flew in his true form but the wind cutting around his scales feels nice. A glittering leaf sparks in the distance and he bellows, pawing at the air as if that will help him rise faster.

Malleus catches an updraft, oblivious to Lilia ripping out of Diasomnia's storage room on a broom. The prince darts forward, his eyes hard and pupils slitted. His tail whips to and fro, top layer of scales raised and acting as a stabilizer.

He breaches the enchantment and lands in the clearing. Sadly, the thought to land ON Leafdance didn't cross his mind. The ground trembles beneath him, claws sinking into the soft grass. Malleus lowers his head to Leafdance not as a greeting, but to better see the cretin that dares harm his cherished Child of Man.

"S-Sire!" the chestnut-haired man squeaks, "H-How nice to see you!"

Malleus snorts in response, knocking the fae back. I cannot say the same, Malleus glares at the fae, green embers dancing at the back of his throat. Flecks of green sparkle in his teeth. Some dragon fae can talk in their true form but he cannot. Where is my Child of Man?

"On the subject of the human--" Leafdance begins.

His ferocious rage dims as he inhales your scent. Malleus relaxes a bit and it's like his vision clears, allowing him to see the clusters of trees and tangle of roots you're stuck in. It was a nasty gnarl, for certain. If Elm left, it would surely knot around you and you'd lose a limb (at the very least). Judging by the lone arm sticking out of the tangle, he'd guess you were being twisted and the weight of the branches would crush you.

Not something to be stuck in.

Release them, Malleus' stares at Elm, satisfied with the way the fae shakes while looking at the reflection in his large eye.

"But sire! Please come to your senses! Humans are--"

Malleus isn't sure what came over him in that moment. He was annoyed, yes, but even when in his dragon form he was rational. Composed. Regal. Fully cognizant.

And he's fully aware that he lunges forward, all teeth.

The terrified squawk is muffled in the wet cavern of his mouth, Malleus chomping on the feeble body. He feels the bones roll, flesh squishing against his teeth like pulp. I think I'd rather have Lilia's cooking, Malleus muses as he bobs his head to send the remains down his throat.

The twist of roots explode, no longer connected to their summoner. He's surprised to find you awake and alert. Perhaps Elm meant to keep you conscious and make you suffer. You're dazed and covered in tree bits.

Even in this form he finds you adorably tiny. He can't laugh in this form; it turns into a rumble of a coo. You flinch when the towering creature registers in your vision but something about the brilliant green of that eye, the way those massive paws--claws?--fold patiently in front of you, gives you pause.

"M-Malleus?" you've turned over onto your hands and knees. He rests his maw on his paws, blinking at you.

It is I, Child of Man, Malleus snorts gently. It blows your hair around and the sound he gives is akin to a purr. You sit back on your knees, stunned and staring up at him with thoughtful adoration.

Joy. Relief. Love, perchance?

He can tell it's weird for you to hear his voice but you recover quickly. The idea that his voice sooths you is more than enough for him.

"I didn't realize you could turn into an actual dragon. I just thought being a dragon fae meant you had horns and a tail!" you laughed, cheeks turning red as the embarrassment hit you.

We fae have many secrets, Malleus nudges you with his snout, careful not to shove you. He feels your tiny, warm hands brush his scales. Trace them.

Ooh it's divine! Malleus' tail beats the ground and he's careful to knock the trees away from the two of you. "Thank you for saving me," You kiss the side of his face and wonder if he feels it. His pupil dilates and you laugh as the side of a pink tongue comes out to lick you. "But you squished my groceries. I'll need to make another trip. Want to join me?"

"DON'T EVEN THINK ABOUT IT!" Lilia drops down from the broom, landing squarely between Malleus' horns. He grabs onto the closest one, feet slipping as Malleus furrows his forehead and starts to move. "Don't swing me, you heathen! I can't believe you FLEW OFF FROM THE SCHOOL!" Lilia shakes the broom, yelping as Malleus looks down and forces him to dangle.

My human was in trouble. What was I to do?

"Tell Crowley?!" Lilia lets go to float in front of Malleus, one hand on his hip. Malleus huffs in response, blowing the fae towards a tree. Had he not teleported, Lilia would be dealing with some serious back pain! He reappeared beside you, leaning on the broom.

I needed a solution, not another problem, Malleus shook his head.

"Why can't Malleus come to the store with me?" you interrupt the staring contest. Apparently Malleus could filter people out when it came to telepathy; he and Lilia were making faces at each other.

"Because he needs to digest what he ate before he reverts to his human form." Lilia sighed. Malleus certainly wasn't the first dragon to eat someone but the boy hadn't been properly educated about taking care of himself after doing so. He'd been taught basic etiquette about showing off his fangs and how to control his wings but eating things in his dragon form hadn't been on anyone's mind since he preferred to be in his human form.

He was a gentle soul, much like his father, and no one really saw him resorting to such things. Queen Maleanor, absolutely! Stories of Queen Maleficia tearing chunks out of annoying suitors certainly made the rounds but no one really saw that in Malleus until now.

"He'll have terrible indigestion if he doesn't." Lilia frowned. "Among other issues."

How long will it take? Malleus cocked his head at Lilia.

"At least an hour. Two to be on the safe side." Lilia sighed, shaking his head.

"Well, I still need groceries." you shrugged, getting off the ground. You'd just have to use whatever bags the store gave you. You're sure the ones under Malleus can't be saved.

Oh Child of Man, for whom my heart sings, might you pay tribute with a bit of ice cream?

"A kiss wasn't enough?" you teased.

"A kiss? Oh, Malleus, you cheeky thing!" Lilia laughs. His young charge may be in dragon form but even dragons can be embarrassed. It's mostly awkward shuffling, dismissive wing flaps, and avoidant eyes, but it's still hilarious.

I would like both, thank you, Malleus' tail starts to wag again. It wags harder when he takes Lilia by surprise and blows him through a cluster of trees like a dandelion seed.

"I'll see what I can do," you pat the side of his face before walking over to help Lilia up and head back to the store.

[obeymeluv]

Off All Week! Send in Ideas!

I'm sitting here, staring at a blank screen as I try to figure out how I want to write Malleus' part of "Getting Kidnapped Was Not on the List." Send in ideas if you have them! I have some things tickling in the brain but haven't committed to anything yet. Scrounging for inspiration at this point.

[obeymeluv]

His Favorite Part of You [Random TWST x Reader]

None of this is planned. Just writing whatever comes to mind.

Leona likes the heat of your body and the softness of your skin. The women of the Sunset Savana can be their own kind of soft but nothing compares to you. He gets the best, deepest sleep when he snuggles into your thighs. Your stomach is a close second but your thighs are literally magical to him and he will take every opportunity to touch them, squeeze them, and sleep on them.

---

Jack finds himself in awe of your hands and doesn't really know why. Consciously, at least. He likes that they're smaller than his and gets a kick out of those blunt little nails that could never compare to claws. The more he thinks about it, though, your hands are always reassuring and supportive. They've patted on him on the shoulder and tugged him at the elbow when you're begging for him to slow down so you can catch up on your little legs.

Warm and soft. Perfect for helping him reach spots he can't scratch or work knots out of his muscles.

They're perfect.

--

Lilia finds your expressions adorable and charming. He can't pick just one because you have so many! You've a very honest face and for some reason it just tugs at his heart. The way your eyes get steely and determined when you're facing someone down makes him proud. His favorite expression is the one you make when he swings down from the ceiling; you jump, seize, and look like you want to fall back before everything snaps back together and you try to set him ablaze with your eyes. After the fire in your eyes burns low, the tender amusement kindles (even if you snort dismissively).

---

Rook can only chalk it up to his penchant for hunting, for identifying the common weak points in prey, but he thinks your neck is especially lovely. No matter how you turn, you always look picturesque. The neck is delicate and intimate; he could trace his lips up the column of your throat and whisper in your ear or pepper kisses down the length of it until his chin finds its resting place in your shoulder.

When he gives you jewelry, you give him absolute trust at the back of it. You're so unguarded, soft, and vulnerable. He could wrap his hands around it or make you completely limp with a grab but he would never do so unless you desired.

---

Silver likes your lips. It's hard enough to pay attention when he's so sleepy but something about your lips just moving is captivating to him. He could watch you recite the alphabet or just read a grocery list and it's like he's hearing someone for the first time. The way your lips pull, plump, thin, but most importantly smile.

Ugh. Those lips are in his dreams. A lot of dreams. But he'll never tell you.

---

Vil has found himself falling in love with the most unusual thing. Something he would've never imagined, at least. You have the cutest scrunch to your nose and he lives for it. He first picked up on it when you wrinkled your nose in disgust at a pop quiz in Trein's class. When he notice it also scrunches in delight, like the time Deuce surprised you with a cupcake, he found himself very amused.

His favorite, however, is when you're sitting in front of him with your eyes closed. Vil never lets you see until he's done but promises perfection every time. He's got a myriad of different brushes and delights in brushing them over your face. Your nose scrunches as he tickles you with a fluffy brush and he can't help but steal a kiss.

---

Deuce didn't know he was a leg man until he was looking at yours. Ace found a way to dip on the yardwork Ramshackle so desperately needed but he wouldn't bail. Given the bramble, he was surprised you opted to come out in shorts but it was kind of hot.

And so were you.

Your legs just kept going and going! The way your muscles rippled as you squatted and tugged weeds was mesmerizing. He's clearing bundles of dried branches and you're right there with him, almost keeping step as you drag forward and he's impressed!

It was going good until he spent too much time looking at you instead of where he was going and face-planted in his branch pile. Nothing was hurt but his pride, thankfully.

[obeymeluv]

Future Works Poll (Pt 1 of 2)

This is to figure out if the blog will stay gender neutral, lean more Fem!Reader, go completely fem!Reader with requests for non-fem!reader stuff, or just be a random mix of both. You have a week to help me with some data! Please do :)