svtcarat-exo-l - Tumblr blog

[svtcarat-exo-l]

hey! i would love to be apart of your taglist for wayfinder <3 only two parts and i'm already intrigued. like the way you write!!

Hi! Absolutely, I’ll add you to the list! The next chapter should be out by tomorrow as well as Taeyong’s first part. Thank you for enjoying it!

-M

[svtcarat-exo-l]

Wayfinder - Part 2

Part of The Syndicate AU Series

Mafia!Yuta x Street Racer!Y/N

A/N: Part 2! We finally meet Yuta! The next chapter will be the first part of Taeyong’s story, so stay tuned. Thank you guys for showing the first chapter so much love - it means the world to me! - Love, M

Tag list: @scuzmunkie​ (Let me know if you want to be added here!)

SERIES MASTERLIST  

Despite the persistent curiosity whispering in your ear you managed to go the entire race without meeting a single one of the mafia members present. Judging by the way Jaemin was glued to your side before the race and how Jeno hovered during - Renjun's intention was to keep you separated from Taeyong and his three accomplices.

All you'd learned were the names to go with the faces. Taeyong, Mark, Johnny, and Jungwoo.

Half of the eight-strong inner circle.

Renjun must've wanted to get a solid read on their intentions before exposing his whole operation just in case the deal went sideways. An effort that you couldn't help thinking might be futile when dealing with organized crime at this level.

The inner circle's influence was cast over the entire city like a massive spider web - a system of strings connecting them with those that owed them their loyalty and those who owed them favors. All they needed to do was tug on the right thread. With an information superhighway that large they could very well know everything about everyone already.

Maybe you'd been very foolish to think you could be a part of the night life of this city without it bleeding into your quiet existence during the day. The collision of your two worlds was starting to look more and more inevitable.

Even with your mind full of distractions the race went exactly as planned. 

You and Mina pulled off the win almost effortlessly. The only real competition was a driver from out of town in a monster of a car, but Mina's Mazda had no trouble overtaking it with the maneuvers you suggested while watching through the live feed from her dash camera. 

Jaemin finished half a second behind her in his gorgeous Corvette Stingray - a ride you'd happily steal if you knew you could get away with it.

The Neos certainly got a good show.

You, on the other hand, had been bored completely out of your mind.

Of course you would always be grateful for the security that came from working with Renjun, but now how your driver performed in the races was being determined by someone else. Whether Mina placed first or last was all strategy to make money and keep the crowd happy.

Success no longer came from being the best - It came from following orders, and each victory felt more hollow because of it.

You chaffed against the lack of autonomy - missing when you clawed and reached for the finish line with every fiber of your being because it was what you wanted, even if it was only through giving guidance over radio.

Really acknowledging the change would have to wait, because Renjun needed you to be a unified front right now. There was no room for the doubts you were starting to feel.

Thankfully, the universe decided to throw another distraction at you.

After winning the race you received an invitation to the midnight gala the other half of Taeyong's inner circle must've been hosting while he attended the races.

Apparently the crime lords wanted the winning team to attend with Renjun, something about a show of good faith, but it was obvious they just already knew who in the organization was in cahoots with Jun when Jaemin secured an invite as well.

In a surprising and kind of disconcerting bit of foresight one of the men, Mark, had handed Mina two gowns in garment bags as he left at midnight.

It had taken half an hour for both you and Mina to hurriedly get dressed and throw yourselves into her car - still trailing behind the boys by quite a few minutes. 

Why this party had to be on the same night was beyond you.

Now you were climbing the grand staircase alone while Mina parked her car, because she certainly wasn't going to trust the valet with her baby when she never even let you drive the thing.

Your anxious fingers smoothed out the fabric of the blue gown you'd instantly fallen in love with for it’s soft off the shoulder sleeves and gathered waist. It was probably the most beautiful item of clothing you'd ever worn, and definitely the most luxury judging by the high-end name on the label.

Secretly, you already hoped you'd get to keep it.

While passing through the crowd outside the hotel entrance the usual murmurs that followed your movements met your ears, and as you walked you caught snippets of your greatest moments being retold with awed reverence.

Your skills brought attention from around the world, attracting new challengers, and in Renjun's eyes there wasn’t much else he could ask for from his sponsored navigator.

To survive this party you needed to let the acknowledgment of your talent fuel you ego. Feeding their admiration and confidence into the darkness within you that reveled in notoriety, you collected all of your nerve and drew your false persona around you like a cloak - dressing yourself once more in the costume of the genius navigator.

A detailed ruse that allowed you to feel like more than you were.

Your fingers trailed your mask, finding comfort in the familiar contours. It was a delicate, sculpted work of silver – an upgrade from the simple cloth ones you’d worn back when you and Mina were on your own. Renjun had it made specifically for your first race on his personal line up.

Thus - the silver dragon had been born.

Someone confident, sensual, and completely unlike yourself.

Feeling centered again, your eyes swept the room from your new position in the entry hall. It was a massive space washed warm and golden in the glow from hanging chandeliers - the skylights above them showing just a hint of the night sky outside.

Mina caught up to you, but her greeting was cut short when she was frozen by intense eye contact with Taeyong, who had chosen a vantage point on one of the carved marble balconies overlooking the crowd. You had a vague memory of seeing him speaking to Mina before the race, and from the looks they were exchanging you could only guess where it was going.

Organized criminals do tend to stick together.

She sent you an apologetic glance that you waved away with a look that said 'go have fun', so she slipped into the fray to make her way to him. You trusted her to handle herself.

As you moved further into the space you still caught the occasional glance directed at your mask.

For the first time, you felt a bit uncomfortable behind the silver. Those gathered outside had heard of you, but to the elites in the ballroom you had no reputation – you weren’t “the silver dragon”. That larger than life person was easy to find in the dimly lit night, but in the warm glittering hall you felt small again.

Surprisingly, a smile crossed your face at the thought while you grabbed a drink from a passing waiter.

Another thing you hadn’t really admitted to yourself was that the secrecy and the act wasn’t as fun as it used to be. It was exhausting to heave up an iron front every evening to then tear it down again in the morning.

A tinge of sadness fell over your features right as you caught the gaze of a man across the crowd.

Except he was far different than the others.

He was maybe the most beautiful man you'd ever seen, and the connection between you crackled with a kind of electricity that stole your breath in a way you'd never felt before.

He held you attention with authority and blatant curiosity until a teasing smirk tilted up the corner of his mouth, shaping his expression into one of mischief. It reminded you that you were staring at a stranger, so you quickly turned away from the boy who you were certain was a member of the inner circle.

No one else could hold that kind of easy dominance in their eyes.

Embarrassed and flushed, you tilted you mask up just enough to down your entire flute of champagne, an expensive year no doubt, and began to walk a circle around the room. A majority of the guests were swirling gracefully on the dance floor to the Bach you recognized flowing from the live string quartet.

Then more people started to notice you.

The glances turned into stares, then staring turned into whispers hidden behind raised hands. Knowing they were talking about you made your hands shake when you set the empty glass on another waiter’s tray. Before you could convince yourself to turn around and leave - your thoughts were interrupted.

"Well, you're new." A voice rumbled behind you.

You turned to face who had approached you and recognized him immediately.

Up close you could drink in even more details.

His hair was a mane of warm chocolate brown, long enough for the curls to just brush his shoulders. Multiple piercings decorated his ears, and the relaxed way he wore his suit told you he had a much more devil-may-care attitude than the other polished, sharply dressed patrons. Several of his shirt's buttons were left undone revealing layered necklaces laying over smooth, bronzed skin that you tried not to let your eyes trail for too long.

Your first impression was correct. He was the most beautiful man you'd ever seen.

Dark eyes locked onto yours through the mask and you got the uncanny feeling he could see right through you -  like any illusions about you shattered before him, so any words that could’ve escaped you caught in your throat.

"I would recognize someone I'd seen before behind a mask, but you I don't." He explained after your silence with a raised brow that told you he'd noticed your appraisal. "Do I get the honor of knowing your name?"

That smile sent your heart right into your throat. Captivated, your mouth opened almost unconsciously and you had to bite your lip to keep the syllables of your name from escaping. He'd said maybe two sentences and already your resolve for anonymity was crumbling alongside your false facade.

He didn’t seem to mind your hesitation and offered you his hand. "That's alright, you don’t have to tell me. Dance with me instead?"

The gentleness in his eyes kept you from refusing flat out, but it was the genuine, hopeful lift of his eyebrows that convinced you to step forward and place your hand in his. Familiar callouses, the ones that came from handling firearms, greeted you on his palms.

You looked up at him and your voice finally returned to you when the silence carried on too long to be comfortable.

"I would like that." A simple response. You were here after all, you might as well enjoy a dance with a dashing mafia scoundrel and sate just a touch of your determined curiosity to understand them.

His grin broadened at your voice. "Ah, she speaks at last."

You laughed thankfully at his ice breaking and followed his lead onto the dance floor. "Sorry, you took me by surprise that's all."

"I didn't mean to scare you." He stopped in an opening between the couples already dancing and when he turned back to face you the warmth in his eyes was magnetic. Wow. "My name’s Yuta."

The name suited him perfectly, and you tested it out in your mind - committing the shape and feel of it to memory. But still you clamped down on the impulse to say your own name despite everything inside you saying you could trust him. 

Yet instead of pushing Yuta gracefully moved past the subject with tact. As a mafia elite you were sure he was used to forcing information out of people, but it seemed like with you there was an exception.

Yuta took a few steps closer, his gaze never wavering, and when you could just catch a faint whisper of his cologne he rested the hand not holding yours on your waist.

"May I?" He asked.

When you nodded, once again speechless, he pulled you nearly flush to his chest, and you hoped he didn’t hear the gasp that passed your lips. From there he eased you into a waltz as the music slowly transitioned to a new melody.

You were thankful to find Yuta’s lead forgiving. His grip easily adjusted to support you in the moments you faltered, so the steps were at least somewhat graceful. A flush threatened to redden your face because of the affect his warm, steady hands were having on you.

Comfortable silence stretched for a few seconds before he spoke up again – dipping his head closer to your ear to keep the conversation private.

"This is your first time waltzing, isn't it?" Despite not seeing his face you could hear the smirk in his voice.

"Is it that obvious?" You admitted, embarrassed at it being so apparent.

"Painfully." Yuta answered, continuing in a exaggerated whisper. "You've stepped on my toe three times."

Your heart jumped and an apology started to bubble out of you, but with one quick movement he spun you into a turn and you landed naturally back into his arms - eyes locked with his once more.

"But I'd say you're a natural." He spoke softly and looked as affected as you had been feeling for a moment before the flirtation blended back into him, mixing with this new earnest aura. "Is this your first gala as well?"

It took you a second longer than him to change directions back to normal conversation. You had to admit that now this dance was about more than satisfying some selfish curiosity about the mafia. It was about Yuta. Only him.

"I can't say I've ever been to a party like this." A party full of the biggest names in organized crime, one of which was a man making you dizzy with his attention.

Almost like he could read your mind amusement lit up his face. "How do you like it?"

You weren’t sure how to answer. If your assumption was correct it was his party, so you didn’t want to say you felt completely out of place, but you also didn’t want to lie to someone you were starting to hope you'd see again after this night.

So, you went with a noncommittal response.

"It's… very different from my usual crowd." As soon as you said the words you knew what question was coming next.

As expected he settled onto the topic. "And what might that be?"

The pause that followed almost made you abandon being truthful, but when he took in a breath to again change the subject for your comfort you interjected before he could. "The street racers. I'm a part of Renjun's crew."

You drew back to gauge his reaction, and his smile told you he was pleased that you'd chosen reveal more about yourself to him.

"So, you're the famous navigator Taeyong mentioned.“ The familiar way he spoke the leaders name confirmed for you he was a member of the inner circle. Knowing that your reputation preceded you, that you'd impressed Taeyong, gave you a bit of your fire back.

“What gave me away?” For the first time you were the one teasing him, and it definitely didn't go unnoticed.

“Word travels. You're the most talented navigator in the country, yet no one knows your name or face. Only the silver mask." He tapped your jaw lightly, and you found yourself wishing you could've felt the touch on your skin. "I did detailed background checks on everyone else. I can tell you what Jaemin got on his 3rd grade math final, but you are the anonymous enigma.”

The teasing lilt in his voice and mirth in his eyes was all that kept you from making a biting remark about privacy.

“I wasn’t aware I’d become an urban legend.” The quip had an edge to it still, but he laughed at your words - a bubbly and intoxicating sound.

"Well." He started, pulling you closer again. "It's one of the many reasons no one can take their eyes off of you."

His voice had dropped as he said the words, the tone deep and honeyed, but before you could melt into the floor he spun you out again. Your dress swirled around your feet in an arc until he settled you back into his arms - your faces mere inches apart. He's good. It was obvious that Yuta was a master of this cat and mouse game. He understood social rhythm at such a deep level that keeping you guessing at every turn, interested at every moment, was easy as breathing.

And to you it was breathtaking.

"Are you sure they aren't looking at you?" Your voice was lighter than you expected, and he chuckled again. Yuta boldly dropped his eyes to take you in for a moment so long that your heart rate skyrocketed.

"No it's you." His focus settled on something over your shoulder. "Except for Renjun, he looks like he wants to run me over with his car."

"He'd use someone else's car." The response was automatic and jokingly casual, so when Yuta's brows shot up into his hairline you just had to explain yourself to keep the bit going. "He drives a fully restored 1965 Ford GT40. Those bumpers aren't cheap."

Yuta easily followed you up. "Well, it's nice to know he wouldn't ruin a perfectly good bumper to take me down."

His humor fitting so well with yours made you warm inside, so you decided to help him out with the overprotective glare you could practically sense being thrown at him from across the way.

"Turn us around and I'll take care of him." Renjun's hair made it easy to find him in the crowd. His concern wilted under the look you gave him, and one short silent conversation later he gave you a reluctant nod, melting back into the mass of people. You hadn't noticed that Yuta had turned to watch the exchange, but when your focus came back to him he threw his head back cackling. "What?"

"Remind me not to get on your bad side."

Something about that moment broke the last bit of your resolve just as the last bars of music played and the dance ended. What harm could your first name do?

"My name's Y/N."

His grin in response rivaled any other he'd given you before.

"It's nice to meet you, Y/N." Yuta lowered his brows seriously. "And don't worry, that stays between you and me. Renjun told us you want your identity classified - I promise you it will stay that way."

"Thank you." The courtesy he'd just given you was more than you'd ever expected. The rumors that had led you to giving this a chance might be turning out to be more real than you and Renjun thought.

"I know Renjun doesn't trust us yet, but-"

Yuta's voice faded to the background of your mind when you spotted a familiar face sporting a vile grin floating in your periphery. Your blood ran cold. Impossible. You whipped around but he was already gone - vanishing like a phantom into thin air, but you'd seen him and known he was real.

Panic stole your breath, crushing your chest under it's weight, and you began a new frantic search for Renjun. He had to know. Everyone needed to know.

He was back.

"Y/N!" Gentle hands caught your shoulders and you remembered Yuta was still with you. "What's wrong?"

Glass was shattering and raining down around you before you could explain that now the real monster was here.

[svtcarat-exo-l]

Omg! Thank you! I've been waiting for something like The Syndicate!!! I'm looking forward this!!!

Aww thank you so much! I'm excited to start this whole thing too. The first chapter just went up!

[svtcarat-exo-l]

Wayfinder - Part 1

Part of The Syndicate AU Series 

Mafia!Yuta x Street Racer!Y/N

A/N: It's here! That's right - the first story will be Yuta's! Another member’s story will intertwine with this one. Guess who? I'm really excited to share this with you all, so enjoy! - Love, M.

SERIES MASTERLIST

Good and Evil.

Right and Wrong.

Peace and Chaos.

All pairings that are seemingly opposites - things that do not mix. At least in a perfect world they wouldn’t, but this world is not perfect. This world is full of grey and ambivalence and neutrality. Yet, life wouldn’t be nearly as interesting without that middle ground where those concepts that shouldn’t mix-

Do.

----- 

You reveled in being able to lead two starkly different lives that never coincided.

One spent running a quaint bakery with soft yellow walls on a quiet street corner surrounded by the aroma of coffee with nothing but the occasional burn or knife slip to worry about.

Another standing on cold midnight streets washed crimson in the glow of neon lights. Where the asphalt practically vibrated with raucous laughter and booming music, and the scent of gasoline soaked adrenaline was strong enough to make first-timers dizzy.  Where the addictive tinge of looming danger lingered heavy in the air.

Half of your life belonged to the night. The track.

Street racing.

Your boots pounded down the barren alleyway that led to tonight’s starting line hidden deep in the gritty, labyrinthine underbelly of the city. An October wind whistled around you - serving as a reminder of just how cold it was getting. 

You settled further into your jacket to fight the chill.

Not too long ago you had found these streets menacing. As if they were sentient - the breeze whispering it's intent to harm you, but now their specific white noise was oddly comforting.

Urgency quickened your steps. You'd never hear the end of it if you were the last one to the rendezvous location.

Renjun had called everyone together to discuss something before tonight's race got under way. He had been acting strange lately. Well, strange for the head of an illegal street racing organization. You hadn't been able to figure out why he set up a pretty straightforward race when he had been really ramping up the heat over the past few weeks, but you assumed this meeting would fill you in.

After a few more strides - a familiar shadow joined yours on the wet pavement.

“I’ve never seen you this late before, Y/n.” A voice teased.

You recognized it instantly and glanced over at Mina as she fell into step beside you. The energy that came from the track already buzzed off of her. It made itself known in the eager bounce of her gait and the wicked smile painted across her red lips.

"You aren’t on time either.” You scolded her playfully - gently shoving your shoulder into hers.

Mina was a driver. A relative newbie who had made a name for herself through sheer skill and attitude. More importantly, she was your closest friend. She taught you how to remake your image as a shield. Together, you had carefully crafted your look until it was almost certain no one from your mundane life would recognize you.

She threw an arm around you, laughing and urging you to walk faster. “We should hurry before Renjun sends out the cavalry to find us.”

And you knew he would if you were even a minute late. To call Renjun overprotective was a severe understatement, but it was only because he worried. Jisung and Jeno probably spent more of their time watching both of you than they did watching the boss himself.

Speaking of, Renjun stood waiting underneath a streetlight - his freshly bleached hair shining like a beacon. Jeno and Jisung weren't in your line of sight, but they were definitely nearby for security’s sake.

Renjun straightened as you and Mina approached, and you noted the light blue that frosted the ends of his new hairstyle as fuel for teasing later on.

You belonged to a very short list of people who could get away with it. After all, Renjun had hand picked both you and Mina.

She was one of his drivers, and you were her navigator.

It was your job to provide support via radio during a race. If the police busted the track, you got her out of it. If she got pushed off the course, you got her back on. If she needed a detour you found it. A completely rubbish driver could win races if they had a good enough navigator.

And you had become the best.

Good enough that you’d been recruited for Renjun’s personal line up after winning back to back races as a team. You joined the other driver he selected, a magnetic personality named Jaemin with the electric blue hair to match, in manipulating the race results.

When said blue-haired driver also stepped out of the shadows you realized this meeting was more serious than you’d thought - considering every person Renjun sponsored was present.

The sight of Jaemin had you subconsciously checking that your mask, your extra insurance, was still in place over the lower half of your face - because unlike everyone else you hid your identity. In fact, staying anonymous had been your one condition in working for Renjun.

He and Mina were still the only people who had seen your face.

You had to watch the way the reputation weighed on Renjun and Mina. Jaemin, too. They had to look over their shoulders every time they stepped outside - always anticipating an attack from a vengeful rival or someone who lost money over a bet, and you had no desire to have to live that way.

Admittedly, maybe you weren't as brave as your friends, but just knowing that no one could hunt you down outside of the track made it even easier for you to settle into your life as the 'genius navigator'. 

The thrills kept you coming back for more. It was the ultimate adrenaline rush with no consequences.   

And you had loved it. 

The feeling of power. The prestige. The whispers that followed your every move. The feeling that you’d finally found an extraordinary skill. It all fed into a darker part of yourself that let you put on a dangerous show every night. 

The four of you settled into a loose circle, your breath visibly mingling in one cloud in the crisp air. 

“I know it’s risky for us to all be seen together, but this conversation had to be done in person. I'll make it quick.” Renjun scanned the area cautiously as he spoke. 

You also had to try and shake the irrational fear of being watched. 

Everyone present had reason to be wary. If the crowd ever learned the ring-leader had nearly complete control over who won the races and subsequently their bets - the results wouldn't be pretty. 

“What’s going on, Jun?” You asked - trying to ignore the way his features still softened when he looked at you to answer. 

“We have some guests tonight.” 

For the first time in a while the boss looked nervous. His fingers tapped against his thighs almost unconsciously and his brow furrowed even more that usual. If these guests were making him antsy - you certainly weren't excited to meet them. 

“Tell me it’s not another driver from Brazil." Mina tried to joke, but even from her it felt forced. Unperturbed, she turned to Jaemin with a mischievous smile to poke fun at him. "You barely won that race.”   

Jaemin feigned hurt with exaggerated offense, but Renjun didn't give in to her attempt to lighten the mood. Honestly, it seemed to only tense him up more. 

“It’s not a racer." He responded stiffly "Or a navigator. They have nothing to do with racing-” 

“Then who?" Jaemin chipped in mildly for the first time. "Stop talking around it.”

The wheels turned in Renjun's head for a moment like he was trying to formulate the best way to say what he needed to. You saw the moment he gave up on subtlety - his features saying to hell with it. He spat out three simple words 

“It’s the Neos.” 

You could’ve sworn the temperature dropped a few more degrees at the mention of that name. While Renjun gauged your reactions - the streets themselves seemed to hold their breath with him. The heartbeat echoing in your ears was definitely your own, but it was far too fast for your liking. Shared panic pinged between the three of you and unfroze the moment.

“You invited the Mafia?” Mina hissed - giving voice to what you were all thinking.

“They kind of invited themselves." Renjun snapped, but after a breath his tone evened out. "We’re moving enough money now that their leader got word, and they want in. I can’t exactly say no, especially because we do operate on their territory.”

To the rational side of your mind it made sense. They controlled this area, so of course they'd want to keep tabs on what happens within it - get a feel for who's in charge and establish authority.

Still, Renjun's voice betrayed some bitterness. He was probably not too happy about being strong-armed.

“Are they threatening you?” You couldn't help the bubble of worry for him that burst in your chest.

“They explained their terms, and there’s a lot in it for us." He defended. "That crowd? They’re all high rollers looking for a dangerous habit, so betting is about to get a lot more lucrative, and getting their seal of approval will make us untouchable.”

He raised his eyebrows looking for everyone's assent. 

It was Jaemin who broke first. “Alright, so what do you need us to do?”

Renjun's "leader" face snapped back into place so seamlessly it threw you for a second. You couldn't believe Jaemin could move past this so quickly, but it seemed Mina wasn't having trouble either when a familiar rhythm fell over the conversation.

“I want you all to show off tonight. Mina will place first, Jaemin in second. Everyone else is already on board, so use any skill or trick you need to show them what we're made of.”

Mina and Jaemin voiced their agreement and moved to leave. Renjun, sensing your hesitance, motioned for you to stay. 

In the brief silence you heard Haechan's voice carry faintly through the air. He was undoubtedly in the thick of the action holding down the fort as Renjun’s second while the man himself took care of more secret business.

You waited until the others were out of earshot before starting in.

“What are you thinking?” You demanded - worry hardening into displeasure.

“I don't have a choice, Y/N. Believe me, they didn't ask." He huffed in frustration. "Regardless of how they approached me this is a mutually beneficial deal, and- I mean, what we do isn’t exactly legal either. Who are we to judge?”

He raked his fingers through his hair and you recognized the nervous tick - catching his wrist and untangling his digits before he started pulling on the strands in his grip. With a sigh you settled his arms back at his side.

“But we aren't involved in half the trouble they are. This is deeper than I want to be, Jun. I'm not sure I want a part in underworld politics." You understood why he'd accepted their offer, but you also knew if you stepped in this far - this world might never let you go. That train of thought abruptly took you somewhere else. "They're going to want to know who I am.”

If there was anyone who could unravel your identity with ease, no matter how plain it actually was, it was them. Fear started to freeze you up until he grabbed your hands, and the touch thawed it a bit.

Deja vu hit you like a truck. Guilt followed. This was a road you didn’t want to go down again.

“Hey, trust me they will never know who you are. I'm not going to let them take that from you. I’ll protect you.” His eyes were earnest, but they only made your heart clench.

“Renjun we can't-“

You tried to pull away - both from his hands and from the moment that was getting a bit too close to the past, but he interrupted you gently.

“It’s not like that. You, Mina, Jaemin – you’re a big part of what I've built here, and I take care of my own." He made his plea. "I did my homework on these guys. My contacts say their business runs almost completely legit, and a lot of what they do actually helps the city. Some of the stories are borderline heroic."

After hesitating for a moment, weighing his reasons in your mind, you relented.

You'd also heard the rumors swirling around the Neos, the same whisperings that led Renjun to accept this alliance, and you couldn't help being terribly curious. The men in the stories told by the vulnerable and defenseless populations of the city were people you could respect. Maybe, even befriend.

More than anything, you trusted Renjun. You knew he would rather tear down everything he'd ever created than get into business with monsters.

"So we're dealing with a group of wannabe Robin Hoods?" You quipped - giving him a cheeky half smile.

Renjun knew if you were telling jokes you were giving in, and you watched as just a little bit of the tension in his shoulders released.

"They do have this thing where they don’t hurt innocents."

You knew he offered the information to calm you, but it only brought you up short.

“I wonder though." You couldn't stop yourself from posing the question. "To them, are we innocent?”

Renjun's eyes held no answers.

"I don't know, Y/N." He slung an arm over your shoulder and you let him steer you towards the track. You barely caught the words he repeated to himself. "I don't know."

[svtcarat-exo-l]

The Syndicate - AU series

Character Masterlist

A/N: Hello! Back for part 2? The first chapter of the story goes up soon! You’ll find out then who the first love interest will be. This series will include a story for a several of the members in these character lists. I haven’t decided on them all, so if you have a particular member you want to see let me know. ;)

NCT Dream Character List: The Racers

Main Masterlist

The Mafia: NCT 127

Taeyong: The Fierce-Eyed Boss

Taeyong inherited the business but swore to change the way it operated. He protects the vulnerable populations of his city and battles against those who take advantage of them. In a city infected by corruption and unspeakable crimes - his organization gets their hands dirty to deal with real evil.

Taeil: The Money-Minded Accountant

Taeil is in charge of the organization's funds and assets. Every business runs on money - and every business needs someone to handle it. His sharp mind is invaluable and hardly anything ever gets past him. Often he finds has to be the rational, calm voice in a room full of hot headed opinions.

Johnny: The Silver-Tongued Lawyer

Johnny knows legal trouble is par for the course for the mafia, so he's hardly ever bored. He has connections nearly everywhere in the city - from the district attorney's office to social services. Every one of those connections owes him a favor. He could charm a queen out of her own jewels with a few words.

Jaehyun: The Steady-handed Operative

Jaehyun used to never falter. Once, he was just a detective who believed in the justice system, but after suffering through a personal tragedy, that faith was destroyed. He became a man disillusioned with the society around him. A man without a purpose. Taeyong was more than happy to give him another one.

Yuta: The Loyal-Hearted Hacker

Yuta started out writing code for cyber weapons in a shoddy second hand van on an even shoddier stolen laptop. But from humble beginnings came great things. When he destroyed a top politician by exposing his corruption Taeyong decided it was a good idea to recruit him and his expertise.

01  02

Jungwoo: The Mild-Mannered Warrior

Jungwoo knew he didn't look the part he'd been given, but that usually tended to work in his favor. Being underestimated was something he had long ago turned into a strength. He was someone you definitely wanted on your side when going up against a city full of trained assassins and mercenaries.

Doyoung: The Quick-witted Armorer

Doyoung has a sharp eye for details - whether it's for picking out his outfits or meticulously sharpening his knives. He prides himself on always being in control. The tight grasp he keeps on his emotions hardly ever slips, unless of course someone brings back one of his weapons in pieces. Then? Expect violence.

Mark: The Swift-footed Informant

Mark spent most of his days running around the city chasing down information the old fashion way - by word of mouth. He dug up the leads that didn't exist in the digital realm - the deepest darkest secrets people kept. Whether he dealt out a little vigilante justice at the same time was his business.

(See you for the first chapter!)

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The Syndicate - AU series

Character Masterlist 

A/N: I am so excited to announce my first AU series! It will have everything - street racers, the mafia, danger, excitement, love, and more. Tomorrow I will post the second teaser, so get ready to meet Mafia! NCT 127 then. But first...

NCT 127 Character List: The Mafia

Main Masterlist

The Street Racers: NCT Dream

Renjun: The Reserved Ringleader

Renjun is a former street racer who worked his way up to running the show. Unlike most criminal masterminds, he prefers to conduct his business in the background - hanging back and letting others carry out his decisions for him. He sets the rosters, vets racers, and plans out the tracks for every race.

Haechan: The Brazen Front-man

Haechan is the face everyone associates with the races. Renjun prefers the shadows, so he fulfills the nightly role of master of ceremonies. He controls the crowd and ensures things run smoothly with the racers. His performance and natural charm always keeps the audience coming back for more.

Jaemin: The Eccentric Driver

Jaemin is a free spirit, but still fierce competition on the racetrack. He is the first driver Renjun recruited for his own personal line up - wicked fast racers who would be loyal to him and help manipulate the results of the races. Jaemin goes it alone without a navigator, but holds his own without a problem.

Chenle: The Genius Bookkeeper

Chenle has been handling the money since the entry fees started hitting triple digits. He takes the crowd's bets, calculates racers odds, and pays out the winnings after. This position puts him in the most danger - so he has the most protection. Chenle is hardly ever seen without his shadow - Jisung.

Jeno: The Brooding Enforcer

Jeno is universally respected and more than a little bit feared by everyone who attends the races. He keeps the troublemakers in line - ready to take on or throw out those who threaten violence and disturb the peace. Messing with anyone around him is a bad idea, especially anyone in Renjun's line up.

Jisung: The Observant Shadow

Jisung is a constant silent presence around those that Renjun wants safe. He is always watching and listening for the slightest sign of trouble in case he needs to jump in. Most often he watches over Chenle, but he also keeps his ears open and runs information around. Secretly, he wants to be a racer.

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Hi are taking requests at the moment

Hi anon!! Yes I am taking requests right now, so feel free to send in an ask! -M 💙💙

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NCT Dream: Teaching you how to ride a hover board

A/n: Hello everyone! It has been a long hiatus, but I’m finally back! Everything in my inbox should be out over the next few days and requests are open! I have some really cool stuff in the works - so stick around! Love, M.

MASTERLIST 

Mark: A disaster. You asked him to teach you after the boys finished dance practice and he agreed easily despite internally panicking because he didn't know how to teach you. The quick explanation you got was basic at best. When you got on the board he tried to hold your waist and somehow walk backwards while you rolled forwards, but that turned out to be a bad strategy. Your balance shifted too quickly making the board shoot out from underneath your feet. Mark caught you but the sudden change in direction sent you both crashing to the floor. He was scared you were hurt until you laughed and settled into his chest for a moment with an embarrassed groan. Mark helped you off the ground, brushed off your clothes, and scanned you for any obvious injuries.

"Does anything hurt? Okay, Um - I saw that going differently. Maybe we should try another way?"

Renjun: Honestly, he would be worried about teaching you. He remembered how long it had taken for him to stop falling over constantly, and he didn't want you getting hurt. Eventually, he caved in to your pouting with a playful huff and wrapped you up in all the protective gear he could get his hands on. (Seriously, hide the bubble wrap.) Without time to make an instructional Powerpoint he settled for a 20 minute explanation instead. Renjun wouldn't show you anything fancy - just get you up on the board going forward and backwards while keeping a cautious hold on you the whole time. While he went to grab some snacks you figured out how to spin on your own and he proudly cheered you on when he returned.

"That's my baby! Maybe you can take off the elbow pads now."

Jaemin: The best coach. A smile lights up his face when you ask him. He would recruit the others for a few minutes in the beginning to help him explain what to do. Jaemin would hold your hands firmly and also let you use his shoulders to balance. The entire time he was talking you through it calmly. He mixed a few tips in with his usual joking around, but it was expert advice on how to control the board. You got the hang of it quickly and he switched to having you hold just one hand to steady yourself - eventually letting you go on your own after he was certain you wouldn't hurt yourself. When you did a lap around the room and stopped in front of him he pressed a playful kiss to your forehead.

"I'm gonna fall, Jaemin!"

"For me? Nope, you mean really. Hang on!"

Jeno: He wanted to teach you before you even asked. Jeno was always looking for fun new things the two of you could do together and hover board games fit the bill. First, he gave you a slow demonstration while explaining everything he was doing - pausing every so often to fully answer your questions. When you repeated it all back to him - he helped you onto the board. You quickly found your balance with his assistance and put his lessons into action. And immediately had to be swept up into his arms to avoid breaking your face on the floor. He only had to catch you a few more times before you got it. Jeno would be patient with you and give constant gentle encouragement until you had the confidence to go on your own.

"Try one more time. You're doing great!"

Haechan: Absolutely teases at first when you ask him to teach you, but when you threaten to go to Mark for lessons instead he quickly changes his tune. The bravado was just covering up the worry that you'd get hurt, but thankfully you caught on quickly from the get go. Haechan is a talker, so he thoroughly explains how the board works before even letting you near the thing. You really surprised him by being such a natural. All too soon he started teaching you bits of the chewing gum choreography for fun - cracking jokes that you could probably replace Chenle. After the lesson he would be super proud of you and brag to the other boys about it (complete with video proof).

"Y/N is so talented I didn't even have to try. Watch out, Chenle."

Chenle: Disaster: The Sequel. He wouldn't think twice about teaching you when you asked, but he wouldn't really take it seriously at first. The lesson started off with him loosely breezing through the gist of what to do, which unfortunately made you believe it was going to be easier than it actually was. Chenle had gotten so used to the board over time that he forgot how hard it was in the beginning. After he sent you on your merry way - you promptly took a header. He barely pulled you into his arms before you face planted. Then his teaching method swung back to the other end of the spectrum from hands off to very hands on. He'd become over cautious after being too nonchalant.

"Alright, let's take it a bit slower this time. Here, hold my hands."

Jisung: Jisung would love that you asked him and has an absolute blast teaching you something he enjoys. Getting to spend quality time with you and have fun is a good combo. Like Chenle, he doesn't take it super seriously, but that's only because he doesn't want you to feel intimidated. Overall, he is better at explaining what you need to do. Jisung would never let you fall - his long limbs are super useful for pulling you up when you loose your balance. Once you get the hang of it he borrows another one of the boys' boards so you can race each other around the practice room. The lesson naturally evolves into more of a date night full of playful competition.

"Come on Y/N! One more race - loser pays for dinner."

Thank you for reading! 

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Prompts for the first SVTcarat-Exo-L Drabble game!

Requests open!

Choose a numbered prompt(maybe 2 or 3 😉), an AU style, add a member of one of the groups I write for, then send in an ask! I’ve wanted to do one of these for a while so don’t be shy!

AU styles:

Werewolf/Vampire AU

Angel/Demon AU

Mafia AU

College AU

Non Idol AU

Idol reader AU

Royalty AU

Soulmates AU

Roommates AU

Fluff prompts:

1.) “Baby? That’s a new one. It usually jerk or- OW!”

2.) “There’s that smile”

3.) “You just make me feel safer.”

4.) “From the moment I met you I knew. It’s always been you.”

5.) “Shakespeare is not boring - you just hate everything.” “I do not!”

6.) “I know you said you hate engagement rings but-“

7.) “Can you please stop hugging me for three seconds?”

8.) “You matter to me.”

9.) “When I see you it’s like the world gets brighter.”

10.) “If you need me, no matter where you are, no matter what we’ve been through, no matter how we left things - I will be there.”

11.) “You will never know just how beautiful you are to me.”

12.) “I could kiss you right now!” “Please do.”

13.) “You still have this? I thought I lost it ages ago.”

14.) “If you prank me one more time I swear-“

15.) “I just want to keep you safe.”

16.) “Are you cold? Let me go get a blanket or something.”

17.) “I could never hurt you.”

18.) “I know it’s midnight, but I really want to take you on a date. A real date.”

19.) “Dance with me?”

20.) “No! Three pop tarts are not a meal!”

21.) “Loving you has made me so much better.”

Angst prompts:

1.) “Who did this to you?”

2.) “Isn’t it obvious enough? I’m in love with you!”

3.) “I will never leave you, okay? Not ever.”

4.) “Stop talking about me like I’m not here!”

5.) “You should run away from me as fast as you can”

6.) “It’s too late for that.”

7.) “I should have guessed I could never be enough for you.”

8.) “Rain today makes the flowers grow tomorrow.”

9.) “Every night I lay in bed and think about what I should have said.”

10.) “Why? Because this is wrong? Okay?”

11.) “I never thought I’d feel this way about someone again.”

12.) “Why won’t you just let me love you!?”

13.) “This isn’t some beautiful fairytale, it’s a lie.”

14.) “Is this love or a waste of time?”

15.) “I should have never said I loved you.”

16.) “I hate it when you talk about yourself like that.”

17.) “You aren’t a monster. I know that.”

18.) “Let me go. You’ve already done enough.”

19.) “I honestly can’t even look at you right now.”

20.) “Go ahead leave, just like everyone else has. I don’t need you.”

21.) I love you, but I hate what you choose to do.”

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NCT 127 reaction to their S/O crying after a hard day.

Request from Anon!

Hi I was wondering if I could get an NCT 127 reaction where the reader who is usually cheery and chilled out most of the time, comes home and breaks down after having a really bad day.

A/n: This has been in my inbox for a while, so I’m sorry it’s so late! College has been crazy, but I’m going to start writing regularly again! I’ll be posting some oneshots and I have quite a few series I’ve been working on for a while! I’m excited to share more work with you all.

MASTERLIST

Taeil: Taeil immediately noticed the difference in your eyes the second they met his when he greeted you at the door. Usually they glowed with warmth and life, but after what was arguably the longest day of your life all that remained was a tired emptiness. You cursed his ability to see right through you, because him asking what was wrong only broke the wall you’d built around your emotions. Telltale tears started running down your face soon after. Taeil quickly took you into his arms and just held you - letting you cry. His steady presence soothed the turmoil inside. The strength in his hold also helped to ground you again after releasing all the negativity. He would make you some food after listening to you rant and try his best to make the end of your day better than the beginning.

Johnny: Everything was great until you dropped your favorite mug – watching it shatter into a million pieces on the kitchen floor. Your day had been awful with just one problem hitting after the other, but you’d kept moving through it all. You’d Kept smiling. Unfortunately, that cup was the last straw for your frayed emotions. In tears, you bent down to pick up the pieces when Johnny gently guided you to sit down instead; kneeling in front of you to take your hands in his. You babbled off all the things you thought you’d done wrong throughout the day, but he steadily reassured you again and again that nothing had been your fault. His words helped calm you down immensely. The next day you’d come home to a new mug with a note saying, “I love you (and this one’s shatter proof)”

Taeyong: You didn’t realize he was home when you burst through the door. Already, you were on the fast track to your bed so you could hide under the covers and have a good cry in private. You roughly wiped away the tears running down your face – frustrated with yourself. Taeyong collided with you in the hallway, but the smile melted off his lips when the distress on your face registered with him. Trying to hide from his worried eyes was pointless. It was too late. He tried to talk it through, but you just shook your head and wrapped your arms around him with a shaky breath before you started crying in earnest. He would understand that you just weren’t ready and wouldn’t push you. Taeyong would carry you to bed eventually, settle in too, and you’d fall asleep listening to his soothing voice telling you about his day.

Yuta: You avoided Yuta the second your feet passed the threshold of your apartment. Tears were already brimming in your red eyes again just from the relief of being home, but you didn’t want to burden him with your problems from the day. You ducked into the bathroom, closed the door behind you, and sighed shakily. Sobs started bubbling out of your mouth as you slid down the wall to the floor. Yuta heard this from his lazy spot on the couch and ran to find you. He knocked gently. His concerned voice asking what was wrong only made the tears come faster. When you didn’t respond, he’d carefully enter the room with soft concern in his eyes. Seeing your usually bright face tearstained would break his heart. Yuta would sit beside you on the ground, pull you into his lap, and he’d slowly rock you - whispering low words of encouragement until you calmed down.

Doyoung: You came home and wearily pulled off your shoes at the door. You’d remained composed all day and through your commute home, but there in the hallway the events of the day started to get to you. The sounds of some drama on the television floated out of the living room and your feet automatically led you to where you knew Doyoung would be lounging on the couch taking advantage of his free time. Tension left your shoulders when you saw him. You simply sat beside him and buried yourself into his side as the tears started flowing. His arms carefully wound around you and pulled you close without so much as a word exchanged. Doyoung could always tell you were upset when your usually cheery banter was missing, and even more so he knew you just wanted silent comfort until you were ready to talk about it.

Jaehyun: You were able to push your bad day out of your thoughts for a while. You hid it perfectly from your boyfriend, yet the darkness at the edge of your mind wouldn’t disappear. You lay awake for hours. Finally, when Jaehyun was sound asleep, you couldn’t take it anymore and rolled out of bed as gingerly as you could. The tea kettle hadn’t even boiled before the first sob rolled out of your mouth unexpectedly. Warm arms turned you around almost instantly and those familiar hands cupped you face. Meeting Jaehyun’s concerned eyes broke your resolve completely. He had to pull you close so you wouldn’t crumple to the floor. Jaehyun would rub soothing circles on your back until you cried yourself out. Eventually you’d make your way to the kitchen table, vent out your problems over a cup of tea, and get back to bed where you’d sleep soundly again.

WinWin: WinWin honestly wouldn’t know where to start when he came home to you curled up on the couch surrounded by junk food. He’d start to smile until he noticed your red eyes. When you noticed his presence tears would start falling again. He would quickly cross the room to settle beside you: a concerned question falling from his lips. WinWin is definitely a empathetic crier and seeing the person he loves so upset would draw a few tears out of him. Soon, you’d be able to calm each other down enough to talk it through. You bet he’ll join you on the couch for the rest of the night to help you finish off those snacks.

Jungwoo: Jungwoo nearly had a heart attack when you jumped into his arms out of nowhere. He didn’t hear you come in with his headphones on and he also didn’t notice you were crying until he felt you sob against his chest. This change from your usual positive attitude worried him. Instantly he pushed the earphones off then tightly held you in attempts to soothe you. After a while he leaned away, took your jaw in his hands, and brushed the tears off your face. His careful questions would make it easy to tell him what had upset you. After, Jungwoo would put on your favorite movie and shower you in affection until you fell asleep peacefully tangled up in his embrace.

Mark: You walked into the dorms with silent tears streaming down your face. Ambling; you made your way to the kitchen for a glass of water when you came across Taeyong. Although you told him not to worry you quickly broke down more and Johnny came to see what the commotion was. The latter called for Mark loudly while the former tried to comfort you a little. Mark skidded into the room and froze seeing you so emotionally wrecked. He would eventually extricate you from Taeyong’s hold into his own and guide you into his room. Not really knowing what to say he would pull you onto his lap, run his hands through your hair, and whisper “its okay” every now and again until you relaxed. You’d stay in his room for the rest of the day and enjoy his quiet, comforting company.

Haechan: Haechan stopped dancing and broke out of character when you poked your head into the studio. He’d make a snarky joke about you not being able to go long without seeing him. Your lack of response to something that would usually make you call him an idiot and kiss him let him know something was up. His feet would carry him to you when you raised a hand to cover the sob that bubbled past your lips. Haechan’s usual playfulness would take a rest while he wiped your tears and figured out what was wrong. After that he would try his best to make you laugh again, missing the bright smile he loved.

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Sweetest squirrels~ ♡

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Quotes to live by from EXO to EXO-L

HAPPY EXO-L DAY!!!

Illustration by me (do not edit, repost, or re-upload without my permission)

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a prince ♡

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NCT reaction: To you having a picture of them as your phone background.

Author's note: Requests are open for all groups I write for, so don't be afraid to drop an ask about anything. I had fun writing some humor for this one, so I hope you enjoy!  (also if you would like to see other members for this reaction just drop an ask) -- Love, M

MASTERLIST

Johnny: (Oh Boi) A Grin from ear to ear. Johnny would be so giddy when he saw your screen blazoned with a picture of him - a candid shot of him playing arcade games on the date he’d asked you to officially be in a relationship with him. He probably ‘awws’ loud enough for the whole dorm to hear, tackles you in a huge hug, kisses you, and then he’d be the one to run around telling everyone he had the cutest significant other ever. Then he’d run back to kiss you again.

“Ah I’m dying seriously.” *Clutching chest*

“Johnny its not a big deal-“

“yEs iT iS!”

Taeyong

:  You proudly showed him the picture you’d chosen to use, and this boy would melt into a little giggly puddle of goo. You best believe he’ll shower you in kisses after he sees your background. Those simple little relationship things would just make him feel all warm inside no matter how small they were. Taeyong thought you were going to kill him the day he first called you ‘baby’ and you responded right away. He’d instantly want to set his background as a picture of you if he hadn’t already. “Baby grab your jacket we’re going outside. I need more pictures of us together.” Probably makes one of the dreamies (AKA Jaemin) become your personal photographer.

Yuta:

 If we’re being honest, Yuta already has a picture of you set as his phone’s home screen, lock screen, laptop background AND he carries a polaroid of you together in his wallet  - so you needed to step up your game. You were checking your phone when he snuck up behind you and set his chin on your shoulder. The second he saw himself on the screen a smile would light up his face. He’d giggle and tease after pressing a kiss to your neck. “I knew you wanted to see my face all the time.” “Yuta, you would hang a picture of me in the bathroom if it was socially acceptable.” “Touché.”

Ten

: You and your boyfriend would be reading together on the couch when your text tone broke the calm silence. Since you were settled so comfortably with your legs thrown over his lap, he'd grab the phone for you. You’d gotten to the point in your relationship where it was normal for him to just read out notifications to you anyways but seeing his face on your screen would stun him for a second. “Y/n, what’s this?” He'd ask, showing the screen to you. “I just really like that picture of you. You look so handsome.” You smiled at him before going back to your book. He'd suddenly wrap his arms around you and plop a kiss on your nose. “You’re so cute.”

Lucas

– The smuggest boy to have ever lived. He would tease you at first, but then whip out his phone and take a picture of you on the spot for his background. This starts a war between the both of you to take the worst candid picture of each other and set it as your screen. You got one of him pretending to flirt in the mirror. Then he retaliated by getting a picture of you dancing like an idiot with Chenle. “I think I win Y/N” he’d say showing off the latest picture. Only for you to display your golden snap shot of him laughing so hard he spit coffee in Taeyong’s face. Shock would fill his expression until he lunged for your phone. You’d take off with a cackle. “Get back here Y/N. MY REPUTATION!”

Haechan

– On the outside he seems to have expected seeing himself on your lock screen – just dropping a casual kiss on the top of your head - but on the inside he’s shook. Honestly it wasn’t something he really thought of before. Haechan always focused more on the aspects of your relationship that were between you two in real life – like how long is too long to hold your hand or if he’s ever getting his hoodies back (the answer is

no

). He’d feel a little guilty about not having your picture as his background too, so he’d take a GORGEOUS one of you for his phone. You’d attack him with a huge hug after you saw it. “You didn’t have a picture of me, did you?” You’d tease him. “I did too!” he’d sass before using a cheesy line. “I… Just needed the perfect one of my whole world.”

Thank you for reading!

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Favorite Minseok moments of 2018! ♡

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He’s breathtaking I can’t-

fly away with yuta💗✨

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EXO Travel The World on EXO’s Ladder Season 2 — teaser