#10 dance volume 6

[macbethsymphony]

The Swordsman and the Blacksmith | Chapter 12

Roronoa Zoro x Reader

Chapter wc: 2.5k

Chapter rating: SFW-ish

Content/Warnings: NSFW, 18+, Fem!Reader, Enemies to lovers, SLOW slow burn, Eventual smut

Summary: Your skills as a blacksmith have made you desirable to both the government and pirates. You know you have to leave this island if you want to escape your fate, but that doesn't make the choice of leaving any easier. Roronoa Zoro is intrigued by your skills as a blacksmith. Your work is like nothing he's ever seen before. Unfortunately, you're hot-headed and he's rude and you both definitely hate each other.

Chapters [1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11]

Masterlist

Slowly crossposting from AO3 Feel like binging the rest of it? it's all there!

Chapter 12: Shiawase

Roronoa Zoro was struggling. He hated to admit it, but he was coming to his wit’s end on how to handle the sword the witch had presented to him. He'd been at it for almost three days now, and there had been no progress. The damn thing was as stubborn and temperamental as the one who forged it.

He paced back and forth on the sun-drenched deck of the ship, slowly circling the sheathed Shiawase as he pondered how to approach it next. His mind was a battleground of contemplation, frustration, and a tinge of admiration for the weapon’s defiance. With a frustrated sigh, he picked up the blade, fingers wrapping around the handle in a now familiar battle of wills.

He unsheathed it, the scabbard sliding smoothly against the blade. The steel gleamed under the harsh sunlight, its surface adorned with an intricate Damascus pattern that danced in hues of amethyst and obsidian. Despite his vexation, he couldn’t help but admire the blade’s craftmanship, the perfect balance as he twirled it, the deadly sharpness of its edge.

And then it started again. The push and pull the blade demanded of his haki. A dizzying rhythm that left him breathless and sweat drenched. He groaned as he extended his haki towards the blade, trying to overwhelm the sword’s will with his own determination. His brow furrowed as the blade suddenly pulled at his haki, devouring it insatiably. He tried to pull back, beads of sweat travelling down across the muscles of his bare back, the scorching sun drying them out almost instantly.

His hand twitched.

The blade dropped.

An annoyed ‘fuck’ passed his lips.

A sly smile played on your lips as you observed Zoro's fruitless attempts to subdue the rebellious Shiawase. It was a spectacle of futility, a dance of frustration that seemed to distance him further from mastering the obstinate blade. Each move was a misstep, a testament to the intricate challenge that lay before him, and you found a unmistakable enjoyment in witnessing his struggles.

While a part of you yearned to approach him, to reveal the secrets of the blade with effortless finesse, another part reveled in the idea of prolonging his torment. The allure of letting him grapple with the realization of his own limitations appealed to you far more than you liked to admit.

Leaning casually against the ship's railing, you crossed your arms, the glint in your eyes betraying your amusement. The unfolding drama below held your attention like a captivating performance, a blend of determination and stubbornness that both entertained and intrigued.

As the scorching sun reflected brightly off the blade, highlighting Zoro's increasing frustration, you couldn't resist a playful taunt. "Need some help, swordsman?" you called out with a teasing tone. "I can show you how it’s done if you beg.”

His response was a nonchalant flip of the finger, a gesture that spoke volumes, even without a direct glance in your direction. You laughed in the face of his irritation.

Nami strolled over, her eyes flickering between you and the swordsman with an arched eyebrow. “Not in your forge?” She inquired. “I thought you were itching to get back to work.”

Your gaze flickered to her momentarily before going back to the entertaining display before you. “I am” you admitted. “It’s just too hot. I’ll have a stroke if I light those fires.”

A noncommittal sound passed her lips in acknowledgement as she leaned against the railing with you. “Looks like Zoro’s having a rough time” she remarked, glancing down.

You nodded, a smirk playing on your lips. “He’s going at it all wrong. Shiawase’s not a sword you can overpower. You have to play along with it, entertain its demands, let it gauge your intentions before you can take control.” You explained. “He’s trying to brute force his way in.”

Nami raised an eyebrow, intrigued by your assessment. “You talk like swords are people.” She observed.

You smiled. “Because they are. Each and every sword has a personality. Mine are just a little more difficult.” you clarified with a chuckle.

Nami eyed you curiously. “Well, he’s not one to back down from a challenge. It is amusing to see him struggle for once though.” She said.

As if on cue, Zoro let out a frustrated grunt, his movements growing more erratic as he attempted to force the sword into submission. It was clear that he was only digging himself deeper into his frustration.

“You can do it, Zoro!” Chopper and Usopp cheered from the sidelines in sync.

You snorted at the evident anger in the swordsman’s features.

“Think he’ll ever figure it out?” Robin asked, tone laced with amusement as she joined you and Nami.

“He will” You don’t skip a beat, your answer confident.

A mischievous gleam sparkled in Nami’s eyes as she leaned in closer, her voice lowering to a conspiratorial whisper. “Should we make a wager on it?” She suggested, a playful grin tugging at the corners of her lips.

“Why not? It’ll make things more interesting” Robin agreed, playful sparkle in her eyes matching Nami’s

“I bet it’ll take him three more days to figure it out” Nami smirked, crossing her arms.

You considered the proposition, a devious grin forming on your face. "I'll take that bet. But I say he'll get it by tomorrow evening."

Robin chuckled. “I didn’t know you were so confident in Zoro’s abilities” she remarked. “I bet he’ll cave and ask you for advice in two days.” She said after much consideration.

You snorted at the thought. “I doubt so, but I’ll put 1000 berries on that wager.”

“Deal” Nami sealed the bet, anticipation hanging in the air as the three of you looked back at the spectacle before you.

The day had dragged on, the relentless sun casting long shadows across the ship's deck as Zoro stubbornly persisted in his futile attempts to tame the unruly Shiawase. From your vantage point, you continued to watch with a mixture of fascination and amusement.

With each passing moment, you observed the subtle shifts in Zoro's technique, his movements growing increasingly erratic as frustration threatened to engulf him. The once calculated swordsman now seemed consumed by wrath, his determination bordering on obsession.

As evening descended and the crew gathered for dinner, Zoro remained absent. Bets from the rest of the Straw Hats were made as they all animatedly shared their own hypothesis of the outcome between the swordsman and the sword. As night settled in the sky, Zoro stormed in a whirlwind of unchecked fury, interrupting the lively conversations, and left just as fast with two bottles in hand. The door slammed hard behind him, the reverberation a punctuation mark on his turbulent mood.

“Why don’t you point him in the right direction?” Luffy’s curious inquiry cut through the lingering silence, his innocent curiosity revealing the unspoken question that lingered in the minds of many aboard the ship.

You glanced over at Luffy, his expression one of genuine curiosity, and then turned your gaze back to where Zoro had stormed off. A wry smile tugged at the corners of your lips as you considered your captain's question.

"He's a bit too proud for that," you replied, your voice carrying a hint of amusement. "Besides, some lessons are best learned through experience."

Luffy nodded thoughtfully, seeming to accept your explanation without further inquiry. Around you, the rest of the crew had resumed their conversations, though the tension that had accompanied Zoro's departure still hung in the air like a heavy fog.

With a sigh you got up, leaving the galley in search of the angry swordsman. He was sitting down, back resting on the mast of the ship as he downed alcohol with abandon.

You approached him, the night air offering a refreshing reprieve from the day's scorching heat. "Like I said earlier, I can help if you beg," you teased, a playful glint in your eyes contrasting with the seriousness in his. “There’s really no need to get so angry over a sword, it’s not like it’ll disappear tomorrow.” You added softly.

"I’m not in the mood to talk to you, witch," he snapped, the bitterness in his voice evident as he took a long gulp of amber liquid, his gaze fixed on the unsheathed Shiawase before him.

Ignoring his sharp retort, you settled beside him, breaking the heavy silence with a question. "Which one of your swords are you going to let me study first?" you inquired, attempting to lighten the tense atmosphere.

Zoro shot you a skeptical glance, his gruff response cutting through the night. "Don't get ahead of yourself," he warned, his tone laced with impatience.

Your laughter rang out, undeterred by his bluntness. "Oh? Planning to throw in the towel already? I didn’t peg you as one to give up so easily," you remarked teasingly, a hint of scorn in your voice.

“I’m not fucking giving up,” he shot back, his resolve evident despite his frustration.

Mocking his stubbornness, you continued, "Ah, of course, because the great Roronoa Zoro, pirate hunter, knows all about swords, doesn’t he?" you taunted. "Perhaps you'd make some progress if you weren't so pathetically stubborn."

Zoro's grip on the glass tightened, his anger palpable. "I’ll figure it out," he grumbled, his voice tinged with cold determination.

Scoffing at the memories of his futile attempts, you reached for the bottle in his hand, draining the last drops in exasperation. "Oh, please. You couldn’t handle Shiawase if it came with an instruction manual. You’re only pushing yourself further from the solution," you remarked, the irritation in your tone matching his as his anger mingled with your mood.

His temper flared, his words cutting through the air like a sharpened blade. "Listen, witch. I don’t need your condescending advice," he growled, the venom in his voice stinging.

Seething at the derogatory inflections as he uttered the nickname, you stood up, your resolve unyielding. "At least I’m not too proud to admit when I need help," you retorted, looking down at him with a mix of defiance and pity.

His jaw clenched in response, the tension between you palpable.

With a mischievous smirk playing on your lips, you gracefully bent down to retrieve the sword. “Watch closely, swordsman. Consider it a gift from me to you,” you quipped, your tone dripping with sarcasm.

As your fingers wrapped around the silk of the handle, you felt Zoro's intense gaze fixed upon the blade. Your haki danced with the steel in a mesmerizing display of power, the complex waltz between your mind and the sword unfolding effortlessly.

Deciding to showcase your skill, you allowed red lightning filaments to saunter along the Damascus patterns in intricate swirls, a spectacle that demanded attention.

After a brief demonstration, you sheathed the blade, denying Zoro any further observation. “Understood?” you inquired, your voice laced with self-satisfaction as you leaned back casually against the mast.

A flicker of anger flashed in Zoro's eyes as he twisted open a new bottle, consuming its contents with reckless abandon. “I'll handle Shiawase my own way. I don’t need your tricks and mind games,” he spat through gritted teeth, as he stumbled up.

He drunkenly took a step forward, his hand dangerously close to your head as he pinned you with a look of unbridled contempt.

Refusing to back down, you met his gaze with unwavering defiance, a sneer curling your lips. “Tricks and mind games? You overestimate yourself, swordsman,” you retorted, matching his venomous tone with your own.

As your eyes locked in a silent battle of wills, you prepared to unleash another scathing remark, but a shift in Zoro's demeanor gave you pause. Your mouth opened and closed in doubt. The moment of uncertainty seemed to go on forever, a standstill in eternity as the unstoppable force met the immovable object.

Releasing the bottle with a loud thud against the wooden deck, his gaze bore into yours, searching for something elusive. Unable to resist, he roughly brushed his thumb against your lips, a crude gesture that demanded compliance.

“So you can shut up, witch,” he declared haughtily, The rough pad applying soft pressure against your teeth in a call for submission.

A surge of conflicting emotions swept through you, leaving you momentarily disoriented. You wished you could attribute it to the alcohol's influence, but you knew deep down it wasn't the case. Despite your inner resistance, you yielded slightly to his unspoken demand, a defiant glint shimmering in your eyes.

A smug smirk danced upon his lips, fuelled by the haze of alcohol as his index and middle finger ventured into the soft recesses of your mouth.

The tension in your grip on Shiawase intensified, the wooden scabbard creaking under the strain of your tightening fingers.

“I don’t like you,” he declared, his voice dripping with disdain as he peered down at you from his intoxicated perch.

Your knuckles whitened as your nails threatened to etch crescent marks into the lacquered walnut surface.

“Fuck you,” you retorted for lack of cleverer arguments, your words muffled by the intrusive weight of his fingers within your mouth.

An arch of his eyebrows betrayed a blend of amusement and irritation at your defiance. The charged atmosphere crackled between you, an intricate dance of egos teetering on the brink of conflict. Despite your verbal insolence, he maintained his condescending gaze, seemingly unaffected by your resistance.

The pressure of his fingers on your tongue shifted, edging perilously close to the back of your throat, coercing your jaw to widen further. He paused, savoring the control he appeared to have over the situation.

With a flicker of irritation, you shifted uncomfortably under his penetrating stare, a rebellious scowl etching across your features before you firmly bit down on his fingers. It wasn't a bite meant to inflict pain, but rather a not-so-subtle gesture to convey your displeasure.

The look in his eyes hardened momentarily, amusement flickering in and out as he contemplated his next move. However, before he could act, you took the initiative. Your hand, clutching Shiawase, interposed itself between you and the swordsman as you attempted to nudge him away, but his stance stayed resolute.

His smirk widened at your defiance. He withdrew his hand from your mouth, the bitter taste of skin remaining on your tongue, a stark reminder of what just happened. With a nonchalant shrug, he took a step back, his gaze lingering on you with a blend of satisfaction and an enigmatic something that eluded your understanding.

“You’re drunk, swordsman,” you remarked, pushing the sword towards his chest.

“I suppose I am,” he conceded, his hand overlapping yours as he grasped the sword. The cool touch of his spit-covered fingers against yours sent an unfamiliar chill coursing down your spine.

With a dismissive huff, he turned away, sword in hand. “Thanks for the tip, witch,” he called out over his shoulder. “I think I’ve figured it out.”

And indeed, he had.

Just as you had explained all those nights ago in the crow's nest, you and your swords were one and the same. If he could silence your defiance, he could conquer Shiawase. He simply needed to approach the sword with a different mindset, teasing out its secrets with a more playful and taunting demeanor, echoing the rhythm of your now familiar banter.

It took Roronoa Zoro two more days before he presented the sword back to you, a triumphant grin on his lips.

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Masterlist

[teddi-bearly]

Rating Klinger Outfits on Flamboyance Because I’m Bored: Part 1

This is in no way an exhaustive list, nor is it meant to imply any of Klinger’s outfits are not fabulous. Because they are. It’s more of an excuse to talk about Klinger’s outfits and how much I love them. Also I don’t have any fashion training whatsoever, so this is just for fun.

I’m going to do a part 2 because I don’t want this to be giant and it already is pretty big

Anyway

one of the ones I see the most often

Iconic

The pose. The sass. Amazing

Honestly one of his more practical outfits

I love any outfits where Klinger has flowers in his hair argue with the wall

I’d wear that to a spring picnic

6/10 the flowers in the hair give it more points, but overall I think I’d see a woman wearing that at church on Easter Sunday

MORE FLOWER

And the fur coat? The ring? THE FEATHER?

Right this way madam

Stunning

I don’t think I’d wear this though, red may be Klinger’s color but it is sadly not mine

And the pose? He’s such a ham and I love him for it

11/10

Scarlett O’Hara who???

The yellow is lovely

And the parasol?? Incredible

And the gloves? And the hat?

It’s so much it’s so much

The hoop skirt? WHERE DID HE GET A HOOP SKIRT

It’s giving rich southern belle

1000000/10

The tiara is beautiful and so is the dress

Very similar to the first one though, but feels more like evening wear while the other one is church wear

The mink? (I think it’s mink??) Lovely

He looks like a princess who is undercover and trying not to be recognized as the princess but is failing

8/10 gains points because of the fur and tiara

Simple but nice

Looks like the kind of dress I would’ve worn to a middle school dance though I’m sorry

I love it though, and coupled with the army boots and helmet makes it much more unique

Also the low cut?? Ok I see you

7/10 because of the skirt volume

Again, red is such a great color on Klinger

Cute, not crazy but definitely cute

The blouse is my favorite part, it’s so cute

The hat pulls it all together I think

4/10 for flamboyance, the chances of me seeing someone wearing a similar outfit in the wild are decent

Another good spring outfit

The dress is pretty practical, and nice

It kinda reminds me of a hospital gown though

Which is topical

Klinger definitely slays every outfit he’s in, but I’m not actually super big on this one

It’s nice, but it doesn’t stick out to me

5/10, kinda looks like something a great aunt would wear

I just realized this dress is going to return in part 2

But it’s two different outfits technically and I have two different opinions

The fur coat definitely makes this one more flamboyant

Also I’m not gonna lie, that coat looks so comfy and warm like I want it

And the matching hat?? Incredible

His stance is also so powerful

Like ok gorgeous

8/10 solely because of the coat and hat

I know this isn’t a dress, but it’s a Klinger outfit

And you know what? I love it

He rocks dresses AND suits, what an icon

I want that hat

However? Not flamboyant at all

Business man core

1/10, the only reason it’s not a 0 is because the hat makes it a little unique for me

Carmen Miranda!! Yes!!

The sparkles? The red fur trim? THE HOOPS??

I wish we’d gotten more of this outfit it’s so amazing

Definitely not very practical though, especially the (incredible) fruit hat

Take it from someone who had to wear a fruit hat for theater, those things are SO top heavy

Very hard to secure, you constantly feel like it’s going to fall off

So props to Klinger

15/10 it’s so much and I love it

All images are from Pinterest

[stxrrynxghts]

Ranking the songs of Ponniyin Selvan

The sole reason for making this post is because I. AM. OBSESSED. Also, I am not a music expert, so this is just about how the songs sounded to me.

14. PS Anthem

I...I don't have anything to say. It's an okay song for me, I just don't like it as much as the other tracks, simple.

13. Devaralan Aattam

Again, same thing. It is a nice piece of music...I am not that fond of it. This album is soooo good, and this song is a nice song. Except I kind of get scared when I listen to it T-T.

12. Aazhi Mazhai Kanna

It is soooo pretty! My only complaint is that it is...what? A minute long?! I wish it were a full fledged, 2-3 minute long song...It has a such a lovely vibe, and I am in love with the music video.

11. Ilaiyor Soodar

It has a kind of nostalgic, old-ish vibe? IDK how to describe it, but it feels kind of melancholic, which I think it is meant to be? This is very small as well, no?

10. Chinnanjiru (Marumurai)

This is one of my fav songs on this album actually, but I don't listen to it that much, because it makes me cry. I think this song might actually make me depressed, it's so beautifully made and sung.

9. Chola Chola

It has a very energetic vibe, over all. Why do I feel that this would be a good gym song tho? It also seems like a strong dance song, and I love it for that. Also, I listened to the Hindi version first, and I highly recommend it.

8. Chinnanjiru Nilave

It is a very beautiful piece of music. My favorite part is how the music starts off with a very cheerful tune, and keeps it throughout the song, while slowly adding a tragic/painful tone as the song progresses. It really fits the couple it is picturized on. Who is the singer, guys? Another song whose Hindi version I loved.

7. Shivoham

I really love the fact that this song's lyrics are taken directly from Nirvana Shatakam. I am a sucker for well made religious music, especially with Sanskrit lyrics, and this is one of those songs. Someone make a 1 hour loop of this, it is toooooo short.

6. Ponni Nadhi

This was the first PS song I listened to, and it is so, so, so good!!!! Such an energetic and simultaneously peaceful song. The music video is so precious as well, and the fact that it is picturized on Vanthiyathevan is just another plus for me. Makes me want to sing along whenever I listen to it.

ANNNDDDDD NOW, TOP 5.

5. Ratchasa Maamaney

Sweetie, I am so sorry. I feel so guilty for ranking this so low. This is an awesome song. Shreya Ghoshal is a pleasure as always, and the music + music video are just precious. This song has such festive vibes, and Vanthiyathevan's parts are so hilarious. The flute in the beginning has fulfilled all my dreams.

4. Sol

Now, NGL, but I was not that big of a fan of this song initially, when I first heard it, but it grew on me. The whistling, the sound of water, everything is so cute. This is the most adorable song I have ever heard. The Tamil version was my fav.

3. Aga Naga

It is so dreamy and breath-taking for me. I am in love with this song. The instruments, and the singing, everything is top notch. IDK how people can dislike this song. It has a slow touch to it, and it is very romantic, but has subtle vibes? Like this song gives me the vibe of loving someone, but from afar?

2. Alaikadal

So dreamy and peaceful. I listened to all of it's versions, and it has a mysterious + chill vibe. Antara Nandy is such a good singer. This song just transports you to a different world.

WINNER: Veera Raja Veera

This song is just....perfection. Chef's kiss. Out of this world. ROYAL. I always blast this song on full volume, and it is EVERYTHING. This song is just....I don't have words for it. The lyrics are even more perfect. The part before the last chorus is my fav and I just-

Also the music video.

DAMN.

I am screaming, shrieking, throwing up whenever I listen to it.

What is your ranking?

[10dance]

Suzuki Shinya || 10 Dance, vol. 4

From volume 3 to 4 there is a very noticeable change in art style since Inoue took such a long break. But oh man, Suzuki’s androgynous appeal is really maximized in this volume. Look at that flowy hair! This man can pull a goofy face, but can also be cute and hot when the occasion calls for it.

Sugiki Shinya | volumes [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7]

Suzuki Shinya | volumes [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7]

[black-swan-slaps]

Top 10 Sus Jikook Moments

There are way too many moments to possibly list, but my friend and I thought it would be fun to compile a list of sus jikook moments. 

10. 2021 Jimin Birthday Live

Cute and flustered Jimin calling Jungkook? Jungkook coming immediately to spend time with his boyfriend? Hobi calling out why Jimin was in Jungkook’s studio? So many questions.

9. 2015 Award Show Back Hug

Let’s be real, there are plenty of questionable back hug moments, but this one is particularly interesting. The fact that it was so early in their relationship. The fact that it took place at a public award show. The way Jungkook held onto Jimin and how they swayed together. The questionable looks from the other members. I see you jikook, I see you.

Honorable back hug mention is the BE live and the way Jungkook caged Jimin for an incredibly long time with their matching hair. Exuding boyfriend energy to the max.

8. Cute Feet During PJ Run

Honestly, this is just one of my favorite moments that makes me feel giddy. How comfortable they are resting on one another. The way they’re playing with their feet. Jimin’s surprised laugh when Jungkook plays along. And let’s not forget the special photo of Jungkook spooning Jimin.

7. “Let me give you a hug” Dance Practice

Am I the only one who has watched this clip over and over? We get to see how even during work they are always having fun together. But how can we not swoon over Jungkook’s smitten face as Jimin fails to lift him, and the way his smile grows brighter when he lifts Jimin like it’s nothing. Jimin tries to lift him one more time, but fails and instead hugs Jungkook and nuzzles into his neck ever so slightly. 

6. Jungkook’s Snow Gift

We should all know this moment. Bon Voyage season 4 in New Zealand. This is the beginning of Jungkook really doing whatever the hell he wants, and he disappears one morning to go on a mountain hike and returns with a chunk of snow, much to everyone’s confusion. He specifically waits for Jimin to wake up and excitedly shows and gives it to him. Jimin is, understandably confused, but we all understand the intent.

5. Malta Room Sharing

I’ll be honest, finding out about this speculation was what thrust me into the world of jikook. (It doesn’t seem to exist anymore, but I had wandered across an analysis video a few years ago). Obviously, we don’t know anything for sure, but there are enough clues here, as well as in many other occasions, that make it possible jikook were room sharing.

(And let’s not forget their cute Malta date)

4. Osaka Live

Similar vibe to number 5, but cranked up to 100. I don’t need to go in depth into this, because we all know, but my two cents is that Jimin was in that room. (Just as he hid in Jungkook’s room during the 2019 NJ live). What were they doing in a dark hotel room with sensual music playing? Eating bread, of course.

3. GCF in Tokyo

Enough said.

2. MAMA 2018

What I would give to hear everything the man sitting next to them heard. Something was truly in the air that day. They were all over each other and incredibly lovey dovey. While we can’t know for sure what they actually said to each other, the look in Jungkook’s eyes speaks volumes.

1. Rose Bowl

Are we surprised this is my number 1? There are so many moments that exist, but all jikookers come back to this one. There are so many questions about why. Why nibble the ear? Why confess his love? Why give a kiss? (We all know why). But the emotions are palpable, as they would be at the end of a high intensity concert. Jimin was emotional, and Jungkook went to console Jimin, as we know he usually does. Hanging onto Jimin’s back isn’t out of the ordinary, but Jungkook took it a step further. And put Jimin’s ear in his mouth. My assumption is that he was saying something, but ultimately decided actions would speak louder than words. To be clear, he says something first, pulls back, and then goes back in, catches Jimin’s ear, and then delivers a clear kiss to Jimin’s head. There’s no mistaking it. Jungkook was taking care of his baby. 

Honorable Mentions:

Rainy day fight

“I was with Jungkook [at 4AM on his birthday]”

That award show moment where Jungkook is singing a love song to Jimin and Jin is staring at them lovingly. (There is a video somewhere, but I can’t find it. Please, someone find it. I think it’s from the melon music awards)

Jungkook waking Jimin up on In the Soop season 2.

Jimin breaking Jungkook’s mosquito net on In the Soop season 1. (And the spooning that occurred the next day.) 

Black Swan Lift

Honestly, there are too many moments to mention. Please share your top sus moments!

[bingebuddie]

Here... We... Go...

Hi all,

Well, so far, 2024 has sucked for me... but anyway...

I've been feeling pretty out of sorts mentally, and depending on where my head is at, I've been bouncing back and forth between Fics and my Wes and Cole novel.

I am going on a writing retreat May 4-12th... so... expect some major movement...

I wanted to provide a few updates on where I am with my Fics and other works.

Sideways:

Published updates here have been slower than I wanted or anticipated. This has nothing to do with the story, as I have this outlined for Arcs 6-10... Yes, up to Arc 10.

My personal life has gotten in the way a lot over the last few months and has just eaten up my time to write.

Now, Arc 6 will lead right into Arc 7 and 7 into 8. You will want to throw some stuff at me for some of the wtf moments and having to wait between arcs... but it's all coming. Anyone new to the series has had the benefit of reading five fully finished-out arcs that took me about a year to write. Have some patience with me. It will be worth it.

Arc 6, Into The Unknown, has multiple chapters drafted. I just need to clean up some edits from my beta, and they will be posted. May is going to be a big month for this arc.

This is a pivotal point in the series. It spans Chapters 37-48, making it the longest arc so far. This installment will delve into the Seals' backstory, their connection with Buck and Eddie, and much more. It’s a substantial piece of the puzzle that you won't want to miss.

This one does have some heavy moments...

This does end with a cliffhanger... But I promise, it's not our boys directly you are left wondering about...

Arc 7—Strong—Eddie will need his friends and family like never before. This is a heavy Diaz family arc. The outline is eight Chapters.

This also ends in a cliffhanger and that promise I made above... does not apply here.... insert evil laugh...

Arc 8 Genesis—This is the big one. It all comes together here, and it is the part I am most excited to write. It is also the longest, with an outline of 16 chapters. You will find out more about Genesis in Arc 6.

This arc will change all of their lives and the status quo as we know it. Grab your seats and tissues. The previous title for this was Unleashed...

Arc 9 - Experience/Circles - Tentative Title - No tease, as it will spoil what's to come...

Arc 10 - My All - googles Mariah Carey ...

Sideways isn't going anywhere...

Shifted:

Volume 1: Nevermore

This was originally planned to be 30 chapters. I have 20 published right now. The rest of this is outlined, and chapters 21-25 are written and ready to be published. I haven't posted these because Chapter 25 ends on a massive cliffhanger, and I don't want to leave you all hanging. I will be finishing this... after Arc 6 of Sideways ...

I have a plan for the second arc... but that's all the way behind everything else on my docket...

Impossible:

If you have read this one, I have yet to post the last chapter...

This has an MCD, and while I was writing this, I lost a friend. It was hard to finish. I have finished the outline, and this will be completed soon.

Run:

This is on hold. I have too much else to focus on. Consider this on hiatus until I say otherwise. It might even be scrapped... will see...

Would You Mind:

This one was a lot of fun... The wrap-up/epilogue is done; it's with my beta...

Lap Dancing Eddie will return... in Sideways...

I Don't Want To Be Your Freind:

As of today, 7 of 11 chapters are posted. This is all outlined. I have drafts of chapters 8-11 done. Going to beta and will be posting soon...

I started this leading up to Season 7; it was my mind dealing with all the rumors and leaks... In my mind and my group chat, I was calling this my Anti Tommy and Marisol fic...

This got way out of hand and became a monster of a fic...

Now... on to what else I have brewing...

Future Shock - 3 Part Series - Magic/BAMF/Mayhem/Found Family/Soul Mates/Redux/Ryan Throw's The Timeline Into A Blender and Tada...

As It Is - 2030 and the 118 have been a fractured team since the lawsuit. When members of the team start to be picked off one by one, Hen, Chim, and Bobby, have no one to turn to until friends and family return in their most desperate hour.

As It Was - Details what led to the fracturing of the 118. A retelling of Season 2 and part of season 3...

As It Was Always Meant To Be - Now reunited, will the 118 be able to rally around each other, or will their painful past be too much to overcome.

This has a loose outline and it's very large ...

Depressed, Devasted, and Destroyed aka Something To Hold On To:

I keep calling this Triple D or DDD... This is a pure angst fest... major whump... like I'm mad at myself for the whump here ... seriously...

This has an outline...

Relationship Goals—In an effort to rebuild their friendship after their recent relationships crash and burn, Buck and Eddie join a local hockey team along with some of Buck's old seal friends. This was pure fan service to myself and a way to get Buck, Eddie, Wes, and Cole to play hockey and not have to do it on Sideways. This currently sits around 60 pages.

Stolen - A stolen kiss changes everything between Buck and Eddie... This angst fest is somehow incredibly soft... This is about 35 pages right now...

The Ties That Bind - Buck breakdown fic... This might get scrapped and merged into DDD from above...

All I Want for Christmas - Think Scrooged Vs. It's A Wonderful Life Vs 911... This won't be posted until holiday time...

The Wes and Cole novel is still moving along... it's my refuge when the show does something stupid...

I should probably get to writing... it's not like I have nothing to do....

[loveinhawkins]

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4 Part 5 Part 6 Part 7 Part 8 Part 9 Part 10 Part 11 Part 12 Part 13 Part 14 Part 15 Part 16 Part 17 Part 18 Part 19 Part 20 Part 21 Part 22 ao3

It’s quiet for the whole day. Eddie wakes up mid-afternoon, sees that a doughnut has been left for him in a paper bag on the coffee table. It takes a few minutes more for him to realise that it’s still just the two of them in the house—that Steve must’ve told everyone not to call, not to come over.

Eddie’s chest almost hurts at the thoughtfulness behind it—but he’s not surprised by it, not now. Not since he saw Steve in the RV keep the volume of the radio down low, even as the clock in his head grew ever closer, just so his friends could sleep a little longer.

And the quiet means Eddie, too, can just… stay. Rest.

He’s glad of it, even though a part of him thinks it’s stupid—that save for that terrible night, this might be the most exhausted he’s ever felt. He’s not even done anything, but his body still aches, like he’s only just finished running from the trailer park.

There’s the ghost of pain at his knee, as if his brain has finally remembered a past hurt. He thinks of Nancy telling him that he fell. “I was so scared you wouldn’t get up again.”

Steve seems to understand implicitly. He does most of the fetching of food and drink, and when Eddie tries to protest, he doesn’t make it a big deal, just says that he wants more practice on the crutches; he phrases it in such a way that it sounds like Eddie is doing him a favour rather than the other way around.

“Hey, check it out,” Steve says, halfway from the couch to the kitchen. “I can really move on these things now.” And he very briefly swivels in place on the crutches, as if he’s leaning on dancing canes instead.

Eddie snorts, feels a rush of fondness. “All right, cool it, Fred Astaire.”

For dinner, they eat defrosted spaghetti bolognese from Joyce. Eddie teases Steve when he notices that he can twirl the pasta perfectly around his fork.

“Sorry, what the hell is that, Harrington? We in a goddamn commercial right now?”

Steve elbows him. “Shut up or I’m stealing your portion.”

It’s kind of unnecessary, for them both to be sharing the one couch. Neither of them bring that up.

-

When clearing away some of the VHS tapes, Steve finds a notepad that doesn’t belong to him. He scans it with interest, then chuckles.

“Oh my god, look at this.”

He beckons Eddie to look at one of the pages.

Eddie leans in. The page is covered in writing, to the point that the white of the paper is almost invisible. The handwriting keeps changing, too, never the same on each line…

And Eddie realises that this has been written by the kids—all of them.

It acts as a log, of sorts: them recording their impressions of each musical watched while staying here. El has drawn a wonky cluster of five stars for The Sound of Music—has signed it with her name and a smiley face.

In the margins, Eddie can see them voting on whatever they want to watch next, laughs as he comes across Dustin and Erica bickering:

Erica picked last time! You’re not allowed an opinion, Dusty-Bun

But there’s more than just talk about the movies. Part of the page has been separated by solid lines in pen, forming a box. What’s written inside is much neater: updates on Steve’s progress in the hospital. At the bottom of the square, Eddie recognises Dustin’s handwriting instantly—cramped and hurried, like when he’s excitedly jotting down details during a campaign.

He can come home!!!

When Eddie glances over at Steve, he’s still looking down at the paper, smiling like it’s some art project he wants to stick on his fridge.

“They’re so stupid,” he says, and so clearly means something else. He carefully sets the notepad aside. “I kinda want to frame it.”

They lie on the couch in comfortable silence for a while. The sight of the kids’ writing reminds Eddie of the pencil marks he saw in Steve’s poetry book, evidence of him underlining particular lines.

“Hey, did you—uh, did you always like poetry?”

Steve gives him a sideways look, smirks slightly. “What’s up, you doubting my credentials? Did your ‘Munson Doctrine’ say I can’t read, either?”

Eddie rolls his eyes. “No, I was just…” He leans on his elbow, turns further towards Steve. His voice quietens in sincerity. “Just curious.”

Steve scratches the back of his neck. “Um…”

And huh, there’s that thing you do, Eddie thinks.

It’s like Steve has to prepare himself for honesty, work up to it. He thinks of that walk through the woods, being startled at the sound of Steve running up to him. “Eddie. Eddie. Hey, man. Uh… Listen, I just, uh… I just want to say thanks.”

Eddie remembers not knowing what to do in the face of an awkwardness that he didn’t expect, not from the likes of Steve Harrington. But more importantly, he was struck by the fact that Steve was so genuine. That once he got past the stops and starts, he meant every word, felt it deeply.

“It was in class, actually. It was… uh, we were looking at a Sylvia Plath poem?” Steve’s voice rises uncertainly at the end even though he’s not asking a question, and Eddie somehow knows then and there that he’s never told anyone this before. “Can’t remember the title, but um. Honestly? It stuck with me, ‘cause… kinda reminded me of my parents. Like, their marriage.”

Eddie opens his mouth. Shuts it. Then says, delicately, “Not the best omen.”

Steve snorts. “Yeah, no kidding. Uh, that aside, there was like, a rhythm to it. I like when stuff… repeats, y’know? Hold on, think I can remember the last…” His hand reaches up to bat the top of the couch in time with his words as he recites, a touch reserved, “My boy, it's your last resort. Will you marry it, marry it, marry it.” A tense little shrug. “Guess I’ve got a thing for last lines.”

Eddie thinks of I was much too far out all my life/And not waving but drowning. 

In the ensuing silence, Steve looks like he’s very subtly holding his breath—as if waiting for Eddie to show one hint of discomfort. Like he’s ready to instantly regret speaking.

So Eddie keeps his tone light, says, “That’s… kind of fucked up, man. Very niche though, I approve.” And he feels Steve relax—his good leg touching Eddie’s, thigh to knee. He senses that it’s safe enough to joke a little more, adds, “You should start a support group or something.”

“What?”

Eddie mimes holding a microphone, affects a news reporter’s grave tone. “If you have been affected by poetry, we advise you to call—”

“God, you’re so dumb,” Steve says, grinning. “You know when you did those, like, bits at lunch, y’know, all the voices, I used to think, Who does this asshole think he is?”

Steve’s voice is warm, so Eddie just tries to quip back, “Pretty sure you and half the damn school thought that.” He’s joking, he really is, but he can feel a little wisp of bitterness slip through despite himself.

And Steve must catch it, because he suddenly looks a bit contrite, replies quietly, “Not like that.”

Steve’s eyes flicker down to the left in thought—and there he goes again, Eddie thinks. Working up to something.

“I knew part of your deal with D&D was, like, storytelling, right? And you… I dunno if you remember, but the school used one of your short stories as… an exemplar? It was anonymised, in one of those study packets they’d—”

“Oh, those,” Eddie says. “Never read ‘em.”

Steve chuckles. “Well I could tell it was you. ‘Cause it was freaking nuts, man, all these like, myths and heroes, and it just… God, I kept thinking it came so naturally to you.” He shrugs again, more bashful. “Guess I was jealous.”

Eddie raises an eyebrow. “You were?”

Steve smiles as if to say Well, what can you do? “I applied to college, like, for writing and stuff.” His smile turns self-deprecating as he says, “Didn’t get in, obviously.”

“Huh,” Eddie says thoughtfully. “What did you wanna write about?”

Steve laughs. “Uh, don’t think it was your scene, man. No dragons or… Just kinda. Ordinary stuff? Like, basketball games or—”

“Basketball games,” Eddie echoes with an impish little smile, and Steve elbows him in the ribs.

“Not just basketball, you dick.” But he’s still smiling as he says it. “Or, I s’pose, yeah, basketball but, like, it’s also about something else…? Normal things, but… more, I guess. I don’t know, man, you’re better with words, I just—”

“You know, I don’t think that’s true,” Eddie says quietly, privately recalling, “Whenever I looked at you… all that shit… never touched you. You just stayed… you were so… lovely.”

“When all of The Upside Down stuff started,” Steve continues, as if he’s not even heard Eddie speak, “for a while, it was… it was all I could think about. Y’know, it was like one of your stories, just… like, fantasy. Unreal. And obviously, I couldn’t just… like, can you imagine if I filled my college application with all this shit? Just asking for someone to…”

Steve makes a slashing motion across his neck, and Eddie winces slightly at how his fingers graze the scar there.

There’s a lull, and then Steve gives a little sigh, speaks again.

“I don’t even think I finished my application properly, it was kind of a blur. Just sent it off ‘cause, well, I had to at that point.” He crooks an arm behind his head, blinks pensively. “Guess all of… uh, everything, sorta… stole my words.” He huffs with another one of those self-effacing smiles. “God, that sounds dumb.”

Eddie tilts his head from where he’s resting on the arm of the couch. Looks at Steve, his side-profile, the thoughtful curve of one eyebrow. Thinks that he gets it; that sometimes there are no words for something like this.

“No,” he says honestly. “It doesn’t sound dumb, Steve.”

Steve breathes in and out, relaxed and easy. His chest only stutters a little, a remnant of… before. His knee presses further against Eddie’s, as if in silent gratitude.

“Do you remember…” Steve starts, and there’s already laughter in his voice; he’s still looking up at the ceiling as if whatever memory he’s thinking about is being projected on there, like a private cinema. “Remember when… y’know, that English class, last period. When we had to read, um, a play. Williams something?”

Eddie thinks. “Oh. A Streetcar Named Desire?”

Steve clicks his fingers. “That’s the one. We were made to read it out loud; it took forever. And you—” He laughs up at the ceiling again, joyful creases around his eyes. “You kept talking over the girl that got Blanche’s part, do you—?”

“Didn’t know I made such an impression,” Eddie teases. He vaguely recalls completely overselling a breathy Southern Belle accent—definitely remembers getting sent out of class for being ‘a disruptive influence.’

Steve turns his head to the side, glances at him. Grins. “Hey, I thought you were a riot, man. Least you made it come to life with how you, like, delivered everything. Everyone else made it sound so boring.”

“Well.” Eddie manages an imperious flick of the wrist, feels a sudden heat to his cheeks. “Guess no-one else appreciated my talents, huh?”

And even though Eddie’s being flippant, Steve replies, with all sincerity, “No. They really didn’t.”

-

Eddie doesn’t know what time it is, when it happens. Just knows that it’s growing late, that Steve’s quietly flicking through a magazine next to him—that nothing is happening, but his mind has apparently decided to freak out anyway.

He reluctantly gets it, though; has kind of suspected that perhaps he’s just been staving off the panic from last night, that maybe that’s why he’s felt drained all day.

He grits his teeth against the feeling, tries to keep quiet.

But maybe Steve notices precisely because of his attempt at silence. Suddenly the magazine has been dropped, and Eddie feels a hand around his wrist.

“Hey, are you—? Shit, your heart’s going like crazy.”

Eddie screws his eyes shut. “Yeah, m’fine. It’ll pass. Th-think it’s just—” He shudders out a breath as Steve’s fingers stroke over his pulse point. “Just. Last night, it was—the first time I’d driven… there. Since. Y’know.”

“Oh. I’m—”

“If you apologise one more time, I’m gonna push you off the goddamn couch, Harrington, and then where will we be?”

“Uh. Well, I’d be on the floor?”

Eddie laughs shakily—from the way Steve squeezes his hand, knows that that had been his aim.

-

It does pass, eventually. Eddie manages a deep, proper breath in and out—feels, embarrassingly, a bit like he’s run a marathon.

Steve finally lets go of his hand to pick up a thicker blanket from the floor, drapes it over them both. The warmth gradually makes Eddie sleepy. He loses track of time. Doesn’t know when his eyelids become too heavy to open.

He hazily feels a hand in his hair, Steve’s fingers working in little absent-minded circles, like he’s not even aware that he’s doing it.

“Gonna f’ll ‘sleep,” Eddie mumbles, “if y’keep tha’ up.”

Steve’s hand stills for just a moment. He hears Steve sigh out a soft, “Oh, you’re so tired,” like he’s fretting a bit. He resumes playing with Eddie’s hair, and this time, while it’s still gentle, there’s more of an intentionality to it.

Eddie thinks he turns his head into the touch, but he’s honestly not sure. Feels somehow both weightless and heavy. Wants to lie on this couch forever, so long as Steve’s here. 

“Tell me something,” Eddie says, does his best to enunciate. He wants to linger in this cosy in-between for just a little…

“Hmm? Like what?”

“Um… wha’ kinda…” Eddie yawns. “Wha’s your favourite thing to read?”

Steve is silent for a little while, long enough for Eddie to jolt out of an unintended half-sleep when he does say something.

“What were your stories about?” Steve asks.

Eddie yawns again. There’s so much he could say, but long, rambling sentences feel far out of his reach. So he settles for, “S’bout… coming home, in the end.”

“Oh,” Steve says, then, “I like that.”

“Steeeve,” Eddie sings through another yawn. “Wha’ ‘bout you?”

“Oh, um… I s’pose… I like stories where people are… lost, I guess. And then they’re… not anymore. Or maybe, they’ve been… like, searching for something without realising it.”

Have you found it? Eddie thinks, his thoughts slipping away on a wave of sleepiness. Have you found what you’ve been looking for? 

He drifts off before he can ask.

[chrissdollie]

i was wondering if you could do a moodboard or scrapbook for me whichever is easier. if not that’s ok lol. first off this idea is so cute

1. i go by sav and the person i would like to be paired with is Matt

2. my hobbies including dancing, listening to music, shopping, watching films & tv shows. dance is my safe space and how i feel my emotions

3. my mbti is infj, i am very quiet until i am comfortable and then it’s yap city

4. my sun sign is gemini

5. i love looking out for others and treating people kindly

6. i love lots of colors dark blue, emerald gold, amber, light pink, those don’t really match so you can choose which colors to use

7. my fav animals are snow leopards, swans, flamingos, and deer

8. aesthetics i like dark feminine, cmbyn summer, california lana del rey very diff vibes ik

9. since everything i said is very random you can kind of choose the theme lol

10. music artists i love : lana del rey, frank ocean, tyler the creator, billie eilish, mazzy star, sza, tame impala

11. lyrics i love “sometimes it feels like ive got a war in my mind”, “summers not as long as it used to be” “i can’t relate to my peers, i’d rather live outside” “everyday you can see changes in her hair and smile”

12. any pic that matches the vibe will be great

13. im sorry if i was too vague

hi sav!! i hope u loveee <3

🥛 DOLLIE MAGAZINE 🎀

VOLUME 001: LOML Looks ! page three

cmbyn/italy summer scrapbook page + hcs for sav ! 👒🪴☀️🍊🌼🚲

i think u and matt would have the best photoshoots omfg!! especially during summer eekekekekk like having lana or frank ocean play lightly on a small stereo while u two sit under green trees taking pics :(

deers are like ur guys' joint fav animal. he'll give u deer/bambi themed gifts just for no reason !

he feels super comfortable once u start to open up and talk more and more. he loves being able not to talk all the time and just listen to u

for those who are interested in astrology, leos and geminis are extremely compatible ! they get along very well and are very social with each other, which i think explains you and matt's relationship well

if you were to ask matt to dance with you, i think he'd 100% say no. he'd shake his head shyly and let you do your thing but i think with the right kind of motivation (kissing his face + telling him you'll watch gravity falls), he'd spin you around like a princess :(

i think he'd like slow dancing more than any other kind. his favorite time to sway you around is at a late hour like 2am in the kitchen while you wait for doordash to arrive. you two could've been watching movies in the living room, coloring, etc but you got up and dragged him in the kitchen specifically to dance. and without any music too, his hands wrap around your waist, hugging you in close while your chin rests on his shoulder.

lets u control the aux bc he thinks u have top tier music taste!!

[theoceanandthestars]

TK's Sponsor

Owen Strand x Reader

A/N: My first time writing for 991 Lone star, apologies for any mistakes and the generally poor quality of writing I'm busy but felt like i needed to write :) Hope you enjoy or at the very least don't hate it. Also any requests from 911 and 911 Lone star are always welcome :)

Word Count: 2.8k

______________________________________________________________

‘Okay everyone, Great job!’ you called as you paused the music playing in the studio, ‘Just sit where you are for a minute, I have a couple of things to tell you before we do our final dance of the day’.  Seeing the faces of the 5-year-olds taking your friend’s dance class filled your heart with a warmth you hadn’t felt in a while and you couldn’t help the smile that accompanied it.

You hadn’t danced in any professional capacity for years but since your friend, who normally taught the class, was going on vacation for 4 weeks you’d agreed to take over while she was away. This was only the second week of you teaching and you’d been enjoying it far more than you anticipated and had even begun to consider teaching a dance class in your free time. The building in which your friend taught had multiple studios, so the idea of teaching dance again was currently constantly on your mind.

Currently there was only one other class going on at the same time as this one, the 5 to 10 years ballet class, a class that was hugely popular judging by the sheer volume of pink tutus you had seen skurry into the studio early today. The thought made you smile again, you had been one of those pink tutus years ago, and even if parts of your life hadn’t gone the way you had planned you still had dance and the same studio you had danced in all those years ago. It made the building feel homey.

Looking down at all the excited faces in front of you, you carried on telling the class that in 3 weeks’ time you would have a mini recital to show their teacher what you had been doing while she was on vacation. Which was suddenly met with excited shrieks and all the children jumping up and down and running around in excitement. Once again you allowed yourself to smile at the sight before calling them back to sit down. But before you could stop yourself and the children from laughing, their infectious happiness having spread to you, the smell of smoke hit your nose only seconds before the fire alarm began to blare causing absolute havoc in the studio.

‘Okay everyone!’ you shouted loud enough to gather the attention of all the tiny ears currently in the room, ‘I need you all to listen to me very carefully, you need to all grab each other’s hands and we are going to form a big chain and leave the studio, okay?’

‘No need to panic’ you said as the children held on to each other and you started to briskly walk them from the studio, ‘We’re all here together so everything is fine’.

As soon as you made it to the grassy area outside of the building you began counting the children in front of you and once you had triple checked they were all there you finally let out a breath of relief. Although no flames where currently visible the smoke billowing from the building had already garnered the attention of many passers-by, many of whom were clearly ringing the fire department. You turned to Mrs Jenkins who had been teaching the ballet class and was now just a few feet from you.

‘Do you have everyone?’ you asked her hurriedly as the flames began to become visible. Watching as she scanned her eyes over the sheet in front of her your heart suddenly dropped when her face paled.

‘What? What is it?’ you asked.

‘I forgot, one of the girls, Sophie, oh god she’s only 6, she wanted to go to the bathroom, I forgot to get her. She’s still in there!’, the older ladies voice shook as her panic began to set in.

Before you could question what you were doing or consider the risks, you turned to Mrs Jenkins, pushed the clipboard you had been holding into her hands and told her to watch all the kids. Her face suddenly scrunched in confusion before realisation sunk in, but you had already set of at a sprint back towards the burning building.

The flames had now started to lick at the sides of the studio as smoke billowed around the room. The cracking of the beams sending pain hurtling through your ears while the rooms temperature rapidly rose. Despite the thick clouds of smoke, you continued to climb over the fallen parts of the building, ducking and running through the flames towards the direction of the bathroom.

As you made your way through the crimson rooms, your throat burned as you called for the missing girl, only stopping to cough out the smoke you had been inhaling. Finally, you were almost at the bathroom which the flames of the fire had only started to reach.

‘Sophie!’ you continued to scream her name, your throat burning from mixture of the screams and smoke. Suddenly a large crash shook the building, sending you to the floor as wooden beams sent cinder towards your arm.

‘Ahh’ you hissed in pain before forcing yourself up, the sounds of the flames engulfing the building, crackles and the crumbling of the structure filled your ears. Before you could rip her name out of your mouth again, the sounds of sobs reached your ears and fuelled with adrenaline you made your way into the bathroom.

Suddenly you saw Sophie, crouched under a sink in her little pink tutu, her body shaking with sobs as the flames got closer to her. Frantically searching, you found a fire extinguisher outside the door, making a path to get to Sophie.

Finally, she seemed to realise your shouts and her eyes locked with yours as she shot towards where you stood in the entryway.

______________________________________________________________

The flames began to rise outside the building as the dark grey smoke filled the sky. The children had been gathered around Mrs Jenkins before the 126 had arrived. Immediately, Owen ran towards Mrs Jenkins and the children.

‘My name is Captain Owen Strand I’m with the 126, Is everyone okay here?’ he asked placing his hand on the older lady’s shoulder, but she didn’t respond to him, her gaze fixed on the fire and where you had run into the building with was now.

‘Ma’am?’ he asked finally capturing her attention.

‘She’s still in there!’ Mrs Jenkins exclaimed as her eye movement became rapid and anxiety flared in her chest. Owen took her in as he began to formulate a plan in his head.

‘Who is?’ he began, but before he could ask her the myriad of questions in his mind so that he could plan how to get this person out of the building Mrs Jenkins spoke up again.

‘She ran in there to find one of the girls. She’s been in there too long.’ By now most of the 126 was gathered around their captain, their faces shifting at the realisation that their was two people still in the fire. Owen’s and the rest of the 126’s thoughts were interrupted again, this time by Judd as he shouted that he could see her as he rushed towards the fire.

______________________________________________________________

You and Sophie had made it most of the way out of the studio, her latched onto your back with her hands and legs wrapped tight around you as her tiny body continued to shake as you manoeuvred through the flames and wreckage. Suddenly the door was in sight and the searing pain in your arm while, worsening by the minute, was forgotten.

You knew that any minute the entire building was going to come down as the fire roared, the building shook and cinder and building materials fell around the both of you. Seizing an opportunity as the flames licked up the walls and revealed a path to the door you sprinted to the door of the building.

The sudden force of the cool air sent you into a fit of coughs as you ran from the building behind you. The lights of the fire engines that had arrived lit the street, which was now darkening, and the crowds of people stared at the sight in front of them.

The first thing you saw though was a firefighter rushing towards the pair of you from the direction of where you had left Mrs Jenkins and the children, shouting to people behind him as he pointed at you both. He reached you both and guided you as you all sprinted towards the group of firefighters, who had sprung into action.

The sound of the crowd clapping and cheering didn’t quiet reach your ears as the adrenaline pumped through your veins. Suddenly you stopped as you reached the paramedics and fire captain. Before you could register anything they were saying, you felt the arms around your neck tighten, causing another fit of coarse coughs to expel themselves. As you turned to Sophie who was clinging on as if her life still depended on it, you realised that one of the paramedics, whose badge read Vega had tried to coax her away from you.

‘It’s okay Sophie your safe now, they need to check if you’re okay sweetheart’, for a second she let go, only to move in front of you and cling to you as she sobbed into your top.  ‘I promise it’s okay now Sophie, the paramedics have to check to see if you’re okay.’

Still, she clung tighter to you, shaking her head.

‘Will you let me check if you’re okay Sophie?’, to your suggestion Sophies shaking slowed, her grip loosened, and her little head nodded momentarily. As you began to check her breathing the paramedic who had since introduced herself as Captain Vega, looked at you questioningly.

‘Miss, you should really let us do that.’ She stated firmly.

‘It’s okay I’m a doctor’, you quickly stated, ‘I was helping a friend out and teaching her class.’ At this information Captain Vega slowly nodded and began handing you equipment.

After you had checked Sophie over and she appeared fine, you were about to move, when a familiar voice stole your attention away from the now much calmer Sophie.

‘Y/N?’ Recognising the voice immediately you turned around to see TK, but before you could respond the fire captain turned to look at TK as he asked, ‘TK, you know this woman?’

‘Yeah, this is Y/N.’ Tk stated before glancing at you in silent questioning, at your nod in response TK continued, ‘She’s my sponsor, and my friend.’

This gathered the attention of most of the firefighters who had since put out the fire and were gathered around the back of ambulance where you stood. Without warning Tk then lunged at you, wrapping his arms around you, which you returned gripping him as tightly as you could. All of a sudden, however, a sharp pain ran up your arm causing you to flinch at the contact and an involuntary hiss to leave your mouth as well as a mumbled curse.

‘Are you hurt?’ questioned TK, scanning you with his eyes and hovering his hands over your arm as his eyes landed on the burns, that now with the light outside you realised where worse that you had realised. He quickly began to work on the burns. ‘Why didn’t you say anything?’

‘I’m fine TK, I’ve lived through much worse, besides they’re first-degree burns, maybe second at a push and I’m a doctor I can put a bandage on a burn.’  You tried to reassure him with a smile but he wasn’t putting up with your answer as he pushed your shoulder forcing you to sit on the back of the rig.

‘Really TK, I’m okay, I promise.’ Looking into his eyes you suddenly realised he looked anxious, causing your heart to drop, you knew exactly where he was about to go with this.

‘Your clearly not Y/N, people who are okay don’t run into burning buildings!’

‘That’s ironic coming from you’, you stated as Tk rolled his eyes, ‘but Tk that wasn’t what this was about, I’m clean, I’m sober and I’m happy. Frankly I wasn’t thinking when I ran in’, he scoffed but the anxiety seemed to have started to dissipate, ‘I promise you T, I just couldn’t leave her there.’

Silence lingered as the pair of you maintained eye contact while TK scanned your face for any hint that you might be lying. You had always hated talking about your addiction but after becoming a sponsor to TK when he moved to Austin, that all changed. It was no secret to Tk that you credited him with your ability to now be open about your addiction and removing the shame that had lingered over you for so long. And being only slightly older than him you had become fast friends and now although you talked about your addictions you spent more time hanging out together than anything.

A cough cut into the silence, breaking your eye contact as your eyes met with the captain you had now seen several times since you had escaped from the fire. The eye contact lingered longer that it should have and eventually his eyes drifted to Tk and a look of astonishment fell on his face.

‘You have a sponsor?’, he asked, brows furrowing.

‘Look dad’, TK began, his shoulders visibly tensing, ‘I would have told you but I didn’t want to jump to conclusions or…’ but before he could continue the fire captain who you were now realising was TK’s dad, whom you had heard so much about.

‘You don’t need to explain TK, I’m proud of you’, seeing TK and his dad like this together after hearing so much about him made your heart melt slightly, seeing how far they had come from the stories Tk had told you when you first met. Suddenly, it hit you that TK’s dad was actually in front of you.

‘Wait your Tk’s dad!’ you exclaimed jumping up from where TK had forced you to sit.

‘That’s me’ he chuckled.

‘It’s lovely to meet you Captain Strand’ you said smiling as you offered your hand to him which he took immediately with a smile matching yours.

‘Please, Its Owen.’ he remarked still holding eye contact with you, him smile shifting slightly into somewhat of a smirk. And it was at this point that you couldn’t help but notice just how attractive the fire captain truly was. It was also at this realisation that you realised just how well and truly fucked you were.

‘Well Owen’, you spoke softly as you looked slightly up at him, aware that your hands where still currently attached, ‘I’ve heard a lot about you.’ You weren’t sure how long the pair of you held each others gaze without saying anything but it was interrupted by another cough, this time TK was the culprit, causing your hands to move.

Both you and Owen turned expectantly towards him only to be met with a flat, ‘No.’ as he began shaking his head, looking between you and Owen.

‘No what?’ You asked in unison with Owen, eyebrows raised and head tilted slightly to the side. However, his was only met with a pointed look from, which shifted between the two of you.

‘I wasn’t’, you started exasperatedly, but before you could defend yourself and claim that you weren’t flirting with his dad, TK continued.

‘You were!’, and in all fairness you were, or at the very least, you were about to. Glancing up from the ground from your scolding once again your eye caught Owen and his silent laughter only caused you to begin giggling. He then turned his scrutiny towards Owen, ‘That goes for you too.’  

But Owen just responded while shrugging, ‘I have no idea what your talking about’.

‘yeah, sure you don’t’, turning to walk away from the two TK was met with the other members of the 126 attempting to hold back their laughter, whose attempts only fell apart under his gaze.

Turning around once he had reached the rest of the 126 he looked at you as you spoke to Owen laughing and standing far too close for TK’s liking.

‘You know they are perfect for each other.’ Stated Marjan, the only one brave enough to break the silence.

‘Marjan has a point, I mean she literally ran into a burning building like some kind of badass superhero’ added Mateo.

‘Which was incredibly reckless’ exasperated TK, ‘come on guys she could have been killed!’

‘Remind you of anyone?’, questioned Judd, causing TK to sigh.

Finally, he conceded, ‘Ok so maybe I’ve thought once or twice that they’re actually very similar.’

‘Only thing she needs to do is now’ concluded Matteo, gathering the attention of the 126, ‘is punch someone and she’ll be exactly like Cap’. Matteo’s statement promptly sending the firefighters into fits of laughter.

[curiousb]

The DBU Alumni Newsletter: Volume I

Welcome to the first edition of the De Bourgh University alumni newsletter, where we catch up with all our recent graduates, as they take their first steps in the world beyond academia!

Engaged couple Martha and James have moved back to Merybury, to take up residence at the Knightley family home.

~ Scorpio  8 / 7 / 5 / 2 / 7

~ Animal Lover / Bookworm / Coward / Absent-minded / Vegetarian

~ OTH: Nature

~ Favourite colour(s): Turquoise / Orange

~ Aspiration: Knowledge / Family

~ Turn-ons / -off: +Animal Lover / +Mechanical / -Rebellious

~ Major: Mathematics (3.6)

~ LTW: Have 6 Grandchildren

Almost as soon as the young couple move in, there's a sad loss to endure - of family pet Tiger.

But this animal-loving family have since opened their home to former stray Sake.

~ Scorpio 6 / 3 / 7 / 6 / 7

~ Athletic / Brave / Loner / Night Owl / Frugal

~ OTH: Tinkering

~ Favourite Colour(s): Blue

~ Aspiration: Fortune / Knowledge

~ Turn-ons / -off: +Adventurous / +Reserved / -Daydreamer

~ Major: Economics (4.0)

~ LTW: Have $100,000 Mansion

Marmaduke has moved in with his older brother Ambrose, to share a rented apartment in Merybury, while he looks for the right opportunity to exercise his business acumen.

He's already winning new friends and influencing people.

~ Gemini 4 / 7 / 9 / 1 / 3

~ Genius / No Sense of Humour / Dog Person / Diva / Ambitious

~ OTH: Sport

~ Favourite Colour(s): Primaries

~ Aspiration: Fortune / Romance

~ Turn-ons / -offs: +Athletic / +Serious / -Rebellious

~ Major: Biology (3.7)

~ LTW: Own a Top Business

Also returning to the family home is William. Although he's a Literature graduate, he's decided that he would really like to follow in the footsteps of his mother Fanny, by pursuing a career in Natural Science, which will mean dedicating himself to many years of further study. He's also still considering what the future might hold for his relationship with fiancée Keziah.

~ Cancer 7 / 3 / 6 / 4 / 9

~ Coward / Shy / Natural Cook / Eco-friendly / Avant Garde

~ OTH: Cuisine

~ Favourite Colour(s): Mauve

~ Aspiration: Family / Knowledge

~ Turn-ons / -off: +Reserved / +Tidy / -Infamous

~ Major: Literature (3.1)

~ LTW: Become Ecological Guru (Literature is going to be a big help with that 🙄 - yet another example of the Maxis criteria for rolling a Want to study a particular Major making no sense!)

Former family pet Boo puts in regular appearances, to remind them that nothing is really gone forever - not in this world anyway.

Over in Sanditon, Keziah is dismayed by the light fixtures in her rented studio apartment, and I'm dismayed by her postgraduate attire.

With her signature look re-established, she too is reflecting on the current status of her relationship with William, and hoping that they can move beyond a certain unfortunate misunderstanding.

~ Pisces 3 / 4 / 5 / 4 / 6

~ Absent-minded / Rebellious / Eco-friendly / Brooding / Avant Garde

~ OTH: Film & Literature

~ Favourite Colour(s): Orange / Blue

~ Aspiration: Knowledge / Pleasure

~ Turn-ons / -off: +Reserved / +Unique / -Fitness

~ Major: Mathematics (3.7)

LTW: Job Hopper

And finally, for this edition, we catch up with Marmaduke and Ambrose's sister Olivia. Although the Military has decided that it's not a good match for her unique talents...

...she and boyfriend Elliot have a much happier event to report. We're sure that this dynamic young couple are set to take Merybury by storm!

Olivia's adult stats:

~ Scorpio 4 / 5 / 7 / 5 / 1

~ Ambitious / Vehicle Enthusiast / Handy / Mean-spirited / Workaholic

~ OTH: Tinkering

~ Favourite Colour(s): Burgundy

~ Aspiration: Fortune / Knowledge

~ Turn-ons / -off: +Occult / +Serious / -Daydreamer

~ Major: Biology (3.9)

~ LTW: Earn $100,000

Elliot's adult stats:

~ Pisces 8 / 5 / 10 / 6 / 3

~ Grumpy / Virtuoso / Born Performer / Workaholic / Anxious

~ OTH: Music & Dance

~ Favourite Colour(s): Black

~ Aspiration: Fortune / Knowledge

~ Turn-ons / -off: +Cultured / +Serious / -Daydreamer

~ Major: Economics (3.7)

~ LTW: Become Criminal Mastermind

[morimakesfanart]

Sindria's Prophet #37

[1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7] [8] [9] [10] [11] [12] [13] [14] [15] [16] [17] [18] [19] [20] [21] [22] [23] [24] [Intermission] [25] [26] [27] [28] [29] [30] [31] [32] [33] [34] [35] [36]

[AO3] [wattpad]

*CW-Long term affects of medical denial & child abuse, living with PTSD *Kink & toys mentioned

((I keep forgetting to tell you guys: Lyly is pronounced "lee-lee." It's short for their middle name, Llyn/Lynn (<-genderfluid affected spelling)))

~POV Mori~ I woke up gasping. I sat up and wrapped my arms around myself so I could tell the difference between actual physical touch and the phantoms left over from my night terror. My body wouldn't stop shaking; I needed Lyly's help. When I got out of bed I froze. Not only did my bed not have curtains, this wasn't my room. No. This was my room. Sinbad picked it out for me in the guest tower. I was in Sindria; in a whole different dimension. All of the adrenaline supporting me left and I sank to the floor. I was still trembling but I wasn't scared anymore. The people who hurt me couldn't reach me here. I had that dream because after spending the past month hyperfixated on the present, I had been triggered into remembering one of the worst parts of my past, so now I was remembering the rest too. 'Sorry, Lyly.' The safety I had gained in this world was invaluable. I couldn't imagine going home willing. Based on how little light was getting through the curtains it was still the middle of the night. I was drained from my dream, and my hips were still aching but it took a while for my mind to calm back down. Tomorrow and the distractions that came from it couldn't come soon enough.

--- "Alright now, Mx. Prophet," the doctor gave me my diagnosis. Sinbad had him sent first thing in the morning, and his arrival woke me up. "You need to rest for a few days. I'll have painkillers sent over to help with your hip pain, fever, and migraine." With his job done, he saw himself out. 'I can't miss the Morning Assembly! ...But-!' I knew the doctor was right deep down. I was in no condition to do much of anything. I was fine resting when I didn't have obligations, but I had a job now. If I was back home I would have had to give Lyly my keys so I couldn't leave. Five years just wasn't enough to fully rewrite my base instincts. Although, from the new memories I was gaining, the me back home was doing a bit better. Those new memories were why I was healed and practiced enough to stop myself even if a doctor hadn't told me to... especially since I had a fever. As long as both me's kept whatever this connection was then maybe we would also keep the benefits from both sides. --- ~POV Sharrkon~ Mori was the only person that missed the morning Assembly. Yamuraiha had a growing smile throughout the meetings, and now that it ended she mumbled something to Pisti. Shar groaned; he knew where this was going. "Yup." Pisti giggled. "I heard from a reliable source," probably 1 of her boyfriends, "that Mori's not 'sick'. Her hips were injured and her body over worked last night." The King refused to look at the gossips. His silence spoke volumes compared to the past month of him adamantly defending that there was nothing special between him and 'his Beautiful Prophet.' "Oh ho~! It finally happened after I left!" Hina slapped Sharrkan on the back with a laugh. "Looks like the 2 of us have to pay up! But I guess you lost the most, huh?" "Oh, no! I ain't paying nothing! Nothing happened!!" Shar had a hurt ego to nurse and he would not let them step on it harder. "Mori got hurt dancing. Our King had nothing to do with it!" Sharrkon felt a shiver run down his spine that made him hold his tongue. Hina looked to the others for confirmation. "Is that true?" Drakon answered him. "It's true. However, it's also true that Sin carried Mori all the way to their room from the festival." "Oh~? That's proof enough for me." Drakon, Ja'far, Yam, and Pisti agreed with their own comments. The man in question still refused to comment, so Hinahoho addressed him directly. "You're really not going to say anything, Sin? After all of that time, telling us how you don't want to get married?" "Fine. Fine." King Sinbad finally turned to them with his arms crossed. "It's simple really. You know I'm not the type to reveal my hand until I'm certain." Sinbad was smiling, but Shar knew instinctually the King was the threat that told him to stop talking. The giant laughed. "Is that so?" "I know you're aware this is a first for me." Sharkkon's wallet cried with him. He had lost 2 out of 3 bets. It was only a matter of time before he lost the 3rd.

---- ~POV Mori~ The Great Bell rang out. The morning Assembly was definitely over. There were several things I had wanted to do today, and I couldn't do any of them since I had to rest. I needed to meet with Queen Artemina before she left Sindria. I had to solidify our connection as allies, but she was set to leave in a day. As I wrote a letter to send her, the waves shifted. This was the right choice for me, and the future I wanted. The letter would need time to dry before I could send it. I got up from my chair and stopped. I didn't want to lay down again yet no matter how much my body needed it. 'Damnit! How much more of my life am I going to spend sick??' I groaned into my hands. I was born with a weak raspatory system, so I get sick multiple times a year and often end up bedridden. "I am allowed to rest even though I can sit up and walk. Pushing will only make it worse." My mom eventually stopped acknowledging when I would get sick due to the expense which is why I struggle to let myself rest as an adult. I made a point of putting the truth into words to fight her conditioning. I climbed back in bed even though I knew that meant I would be stuck with just my thoughts until I fell back asleep. This was the perfect opportunity to process everything that had happened with Sinbad, but I couldn't think about it at all. Being triggered, recognizing these new memories, and that night terror just made me think about home more -well the place I came from. Even when I was in my room there I often couldn't help but think 'I want to go home' because even though it was comfortable and familiar, I couldn't feel safe. My last therapist told me that as long as I stayed in that house full of reminders there was only a slim chance of me recovering from my CPTSD. If only I could have afforded to move out.

In the new memories I got, our dad finally agreed to reorganize all of the living spaces, so that me and Lyly weren't getting as many flashbacks anymore. Hell, he even apologized for everything and started acting like a real dad some of the time. The me that stayed home was able to persevere until an opening for change finally came. 'If they got Isekai now I wonder if they would want to go home?' The thought had never occurred to this me -just like it never did back when I was in in-patient. Although I was still worried about Lyly like I was then. I rolled over to pull out a scroll from the bedside dressers. When I was on the ship I had worked on all sorts of scrolls and one was a memoir of my life back home. One of the first things I did was draw the people important to me before I'll inevitably forget their faces. I unrolled the scroll. Lyly's face stared up at me from the page. As difficult as that place was to live in all of my loved ones were there. In this world there was no one that knew me, and I wasn't sure if I could let my self get that close to anyone here -especially Sinbad. He already knew how deep some of the scars on my heart are. I didn't want him to think any less of me, or use my pain against me. And even more than that, I was scared that the safety I had here would shatter if I made a wrong step. 'I thought I was doing better.' This world had treated me so well that I fell into a false sense of security. Not being surrounded by reminders of my traumas made me feel like I was somehow cured and could restart from scratch. But that's not how healing works... Being away from triggers just made it easier to avoid having an attack. It's only after feeling safe that we let ourselves feel the emotions that are unsafe to feel in the moment. A few tears fell down my cheeks. I placed the scroll on the bedside table and rolled back towards the middle of the bed. Surely it was okay for me to cry in a situation like this. I allowed myself the luxury even though the tears didn't last long. When I was young I cried just as often from joy as sadness. The abuse I experienced made it unsafe to cry at all, so I learned to cry silently until I eventually stopped crying altogether. Being in this world made me feel like it was okay again. Letting myself actually feel these emotions was an important step in the healing process. Beating myself up for getting triggered and relapsing wouldn't help at all. I needed to forgive myself.

--- One day of rest should be enough, right? It's not like I still had a fever. I didn't want to stay in my room and make an even worse impression. My hips would hurt a little if I over worked them, but that would just act as a limiter. ((<<= This person is in denial))

I got dressed after breakfast, but as soon as I grabbed the doorknob I froze. "Yeah, no." I was not in the mood to see Sinbad in person yet, and I would have to if I left my room. As soon as I took Queen Sinbad's choker back off I felt a wave of relief. It had given me so much dopamine and serotonin when it was part of a fantasy, but now it was a reminder of my fears. How could I mark myself with it when I couldn't feel safe in my own desires? Wearing it felt like a lie. I definitely wouldn't be able to wear it for a while.

'Guess I haven't completely lost my sense of self-preservation.' Besides, I hadn't actually had time to do most of the things I like doing to relax since I got to this world. Going out in this state would be worse than not going out. Another day off as I recover from the stress had to be reasonable.

But what options did I have to relax?

Everyone else was busy with work at this time of day, so I could masturbate without having to worry about being interrupted. But my toybox didn't isekai with me; I only have my hands, and some ribbons for mild shibari. Sinbad said I could make requests, but there was no way in hell I was letting him find about this, let alone use his money for my sex toys. I'll figure out where to get some after payday. The night terror was still fresh in my memory anyway.

Video games, comics, and anime were obviously out of the question. Printing still isn't big enough for fiction to be popular to write -that's part of why Sinbad's Adventure story was such a huge success. I had 3 cats back home, but I can't exactly adopt a new pet while sick. I do sing a lot to relieve stress, but it would be embarrassing to be overheard without knowing. 'Note to self: get carpets to hang up to dampen the sound.' There were places I could go that would be harder to be heard but leaving wasn't an option until I was better. That only left me: writing and drawing.

'Working on Fate scrolls it is!'

The flow of ink was good for my brain. It did more than help calm me; it gave me more perspective but it couldn't give me true answers. 'I wish we could just go back to how things were before that night. How am I supposed to know when I will be ready to see Sinbad again?' He isn't any of the people that hurt me, so why can't I just like him without being afraid of betrayal?

Were Sinbad's actions manipulation, or earnest? Could I trust the safety I felt around him? It was definitely a combination of how he treated me, what I knew from reading his Fate, and how familiar I was with being around those types of manipulation. But there was something strange. When I looked for signs of his manipulation in how he dealt with me, or any expected fallout, nothing came from it. In fact, everything kept ending in my favor. The cycle I was expecting was coming from me, not Sinbad. The waves swirled as I finally let myself think about it.

What was he actually going to say when I cut him off? Even if it was what I thought, would I be able to believe him? Even if I didn't have relationship trauma I don't think I could trust him romantically after reading his Fate. He claimed he wasn't playing the flirting game, but that could have been manipulation. Was it my heart or pride that would be hurt more if he was lying? I couldn't tell yet.

I was lonely. Both in general, and in this world. There was no one that knew me here. And I was too scared to trust the person getting closest to my heart. Even though I didn't want to be seen like this, I didn't actually want to be alone; I just couldn't shake the fear of rejection or punishment I thought was inevitable. I left my windows open just in case. ---

~POV Sinbad~ The King sat on the edge of Mori's bed. He had been unable to visit the first time she was sick. Now that he understood his own feelings he couldn't stay away unless he was on the other side of the world. The only reason he didn't visit the first day was because he knew she needed space away from him. The waves had been trying to guide him here for a while though. Who was he to deny them? No one answered the door when he knocked or called out. The silence and waves worried him. The last report said her current fever was mild, but it could have spiked since then. Mori developed an extremely high fever on the ship several hours after everyone saw she was unwell. He entered without permission only to find his Beautiful Prophet was sleeping peacefully. He had gotten to see her; that would have to be enough. Mori turned her head in her sleep and her bangs fell onto her eye lashes. Sinbad leaned over to move her hair out of the way. He tried to keep his touch light to not wake her, but her eyes fluttered open. Unfocused eyes watched him. "Sin..?" The sound of their voice was a relief. It didn't sound strained at all, only weak from sleep.

"How are you feeling?" They weren't anywhere near as bad as last time. "~*yawn* Better now that I'm awake." "Oh? Did you have a bad dream?" They watched him as what he asked slowly processed in their newly conscious state. "Yeah, I did. Thank you for waking me." "Anytime." Sinbad returned their weak smile with his own. "I guess that's why it wasn't just my waves leading me here." He hesitated. "Mori, what do you think about moving into the Purple Leo Tower? It will be easier to care for you when you get sick. You'll be safer there. And your waves could reach me faster." The same fear from the other night started seeping into their expression. "I'm fine here." But he wasn't fine. "Besides, it will be harder when I have to move out of the Palace." For a moment he forgot how to breathe. "Why would you have to move out?" Why would she ever think she had to leave?? "Would you really be okay with me staying after my visions run out?" The King couldn't stop his hand from reaching to caress their cheek, but he was able to hold back from making contact. "Of course." Mori's brow creased farther and they glanced at his hand. "What about after I share all the knowledge I have from my world? I wasn't an engineer. I only know the basics." Sinbad's heart dropped. From the beginning Mori had been marketing herself as a resource, and he had only ever responded positively. Yet another way he'd messed up without even realizing it. "Of course, I'll still want you by my side." The more he was able to peer into Mori's heart the more worried he got. "You are a person, not a resource. You do know that, don't you?" Mori closed their eyes and leaned their head towards his hand; he took that as permission. Their cheek didn't feel feverish. They spoke flatly about their emotions like they did the night of the Announcement. "I know that logically, but I struggle with knowing how to act if I'm not helping someone." They brought a hand up to his. "I really do like helping people, but sometimes it feels like that's all I am. It's what I had to do to survive since I was little." Ah. He could understand that thought process. Sinbad had been a caregiver for his mother and village from a very young age, and went straight from that to king's candidate. There was very little time in his life when he wasn't working towards helping someone. Drinking, and philandering became his break from that -although he would hopefully be narrowing that last point to one person soon. "You seemed to do just fine at the festival." So fine that he couldn't deny his feelings anymore. "Huh? -Oh. Yeah. I guess I did." Her expression softened into a genuine smile. "It was probably going around the festival that got me sick though." It was mainly stress according to the doctors' report. Mori closed her eyes with a yawn. "I'll have to keep more distance between me and the citizens next time. I didn't realize I was so interesting." "You're incredibly interesting." They let out a quiet chuckle. "If you say so." Sinbad watched and felt as they turned their face into his palm, and sighed. Mori relaxed more into his hand with each breath as if his scent and touch were comforting. It bubbled up desires he knew he shouldn't act upon with a sick or unconscious person and yet he couldn't make himself leave either. He took a moment to ground himself but it did little good. He couldn't bring himself to leave until after Mori let go of his hand. To think another person would have this much power over him. "You really are amazing." There was absolutely no way he'd ever allow anyone else to see this side of them. Mori would be moved to the Purple Leo Tower in time, and would just have to learn through experience that he had no intentions of letting them go. ---

~POV Mori~ I woke up to the Great Bell the next morning. Sinbad being here was not a dream. I had just been too groggy to question the situation. What was the point of staying home, if he was going to visit me in person?

On the plus side, seeing Sinbad while I wasn't stuck in my trauma brain helped break the cycle of questions. Sinbad might be stubborn but through his whole life he is shown being someone fully willing to change his mind when given enough information. At this point in the story he is someone with conviction who says his truth directly -even if he often speaks in a manipulative way. So when he said he's chosen a new path, he meant it -even if I don't know what that means yet. And when he is shown seducing women, the idea of moving any of them into the Purple Leo Tower would never be considered, let alone offered -even in private. And yet he offered that to me.

Sinbad was changing and I'd never be able to accept how if I stayed cooped up in my room. To understand myself, and Sinbad I needed to spend more time around him. My rest was over. I didn't need to jump all the way in at once. I'd see him at the morning Assemblies, swap pleasantries, and part ways until the next day. 'Slow and steady.' --- ~POV Sinbad~ Was this how Hina and Drakon felt when they looked at their wives before they got together? Just seeing Mori enter the halls of the White Capricorn Tower made his heart swell. And hearing their voice? Well, he was starting to understand why Ja'far had been so upset with him since they returned from Balbadd. Even seeing Mori dressed androgynously didn't shake his feelings -though it was a bit jarring after how they dressed for the Announcement. It just cemented that what he felt wasn't simply based on how Mori presented. They were undeniably the most beautiful person in the world to him now.

After going through more options than necessary, the first thing the Dungeon Capturer managed to say to Mori was, "I'm happy to see you're feeling better."

"Yes. And thank you for visiting me while I was resting." Mori's smile made him feel at peace. Seeing them up close confirmed that they cut their bangs some. "But never enter my room without explicit permission again." Their sharper tone pierced him repeatedly with each sentence. "That includes the bird by the way. If my curtains are closed or I don't answer the door: don't enter my room."

He wore a smile to ease their anger. "Of course. It won't happen again."

Even as Mori accepted his response and left, the King couldn't get his heart to stop racing. Why did there have to be so many large risks of ruining his chances when he already knew she liked him from reading his Fate?

--- ~POV Mori~

As soon as the Assembly was over, I fled to the Black Libra Tower. 'He said he was happy I was better! AND he didn't say anything about about my change of gender expression!' Sinbad said all of two words directly to me and I started short circuiting. I remembered that he offered to move me to his tower -the one he sleeps in???- and immediately went on the defensive. I was not as ready as I thought!! I was going to need my favorite hyperfixation to survive the rollercoaster I was trapped on. And if it didn't exits yet, then I was going to reinvent it myself! It would be relatively easy to make a printing press since this fanfic was in English instead of whichever Arabic language was the region's canonical one, or Japanese like the series was originated in. Both require significantly more characters than English, and some kanji can be too intricate to make with this world's current level of technology. Speaking of which, this world had stamps and seals so this next level of printing shouldn't be too crazy of a change. I took some print making classes in high school and college, so I got to use a few different scale printing presses. I knew enough to draft prototypes. I excelled at typography in college too -so well that the department head signed off on me skipping a few courses so I could get to the high level stuff faster. The typography was digital, but I still learned enough to draft prototypes of stamps and such. ('A shame I couldn't afford higher than an Associates Degrees.) Since I was working on a table in the middle of one of the libraries, people came up to ask me about what I was doing. I gave a brief summary to the latest onlooker, before I pointed to the examples I was drafting. "I see." His voice was familiar but I was too focused to register it. The person moved around the table to read the part I had finished this morning. He made a few sounds of recognition as he read. "Won't spelling out each word every time be a hassle?" "Well, yeah. It's better to have most words premade. And full lines of text can be fused together to make reprinting more issues easier and faster." He pointed to a spot on the parchment. "Ah- that's what this part is then." My eyes were drawn to the glint of his rings. Every cell in my body remade itself as my brain finally acknowledged who was talking to me. "That is convenient." Sinbad's voice was unmistakable now that I was paying attention. I prayed to every God I knew of that my emotions didn't show in my actions or voice. "This might be a new technology here, but you won't have to completely reinvent the wheel thanks to my 'visions.'" I had to focus on my breathing to keep my heart rate down. I was able to keep the conversation moving, but I wasn't sure I would remember it well. I was more focused on not looking like an idiot. We had exchanged greetings at the morning assembly but this was the first time I was talking to him fully sober in days. His polite gestures and this conversation made my heart swell, but he wasn't flirting; he was just existing while being attractive. 'Why did I have to start thinking it could be mutual??? I can't even enjoy it like this!' If anything starts there's going to be an end.

--- ~POV Sinbad~ Sinbad didn't have a 'real' reason for visiting Mori in Black Libra Tower on their first day back, but, as King, there was no one who would question him. Although, Ja'far would come to get him if he's away from his responsibilities for too long. He arrived a bit after lunch to find Mori sitting at a table in the middle of the library where anyone could and did come talk to them. The proof being that they didn't beat an eye at his questions. In fact, it sounded like they had explained about this stamp system multiple times. Mori needed their own office in the tower. He'd make sure they got one asap. As interesting as this new technology was, Sinbad kept finding himself staring at his Beautiful Prophet more. It was hard enough to focus at his own desk -let alone when Mori was right in front of him. Sinbad had heard that acknowledging the feeling makes it stronger, but he wasn't expecting this. Mori tensed for a moment before scooting their chair away from him. He had been leaning closer to them without realizing, and they moved away. How was this the same person that fell asleep holding his hand the previous day? Were they just too tired back then to remember what was going on? Did they think it was a dream? He definitely shouldn't flirt with them while they were this uncomfortable to be around him. Would they even be willing to hold his arm while they walked together? He didn't think so. Sinbad took a moment to ground. Even if Mori had turned into a feral cat or wild rabbit around him, the way they watched him when they thought he wasn't looking was a sign that they wouldn't mind being tamed by him. They had enjoyed his company before; he just needed to remind them of that. The only question was if he could regain Mori's trust before he had to leave for the Kou Empire.

((OMGOSH I did not expect this to take this long. At least a month of that gap was from back-to-back illness too, so it took even longer. My digestive track turned off for 24 hours and took 48 to fully come back online. While I was in recovery I caught a really bad upper raspatory infection that gave me a 103F fever for a week. So of course my period hit me like a freight train a week later. Somehow I was ill the weeks around the holidays and not on them, but it was a still a super rough couple of weeks. I'm better now :D which is why I was able to have the energy to write.

I processed a lot of my emotions while working on these chapters. They're all things I already knew, but consolidating them like this helped me see more of the places they were affecting me, and cement in my head that it is okay to move forward. :D

This arc is 3 chapters long including this one. Since I do have the next 2 written already, I just need to refine them and make the art, so there shouldn't be as long as a break for the next chapter. Like this chapter, they will have scenes of Mori processing their emotions. I needed a lot of time to edit them down a ton since there's obviously things I don't intend to post on the internet, and I want the story to feel good to read chapter to chapter. I've already got the next arc started too. It's a lot of character confrontations that became discarded drafts of earlier arcs, but definitely need to happen now. Since I have those drafts as a basis, I hope to get that arc ready before I finish posting this one. I have another DeadEnd chapter to post, and a few one shots I almost have ready. I've been posting wips and art for for them on patreon, but I won't be posting them here until I have full chapters ready U-U))

[dekusheroacademia]

Small "What is going on in the bkdk this week" update

I am still trying to write a full on summary of the bkdk history in fandom, but for now, what is going on this week?? It is now the 6/10/22 and this week had been quite interesting!

Monday 3 October was international boyfriend day and Noguchi, one of Horikoshi's previous assistants, decided to bless us with this fanart, which was the most bkdkbk fanart he has ever posted:

(link)

The number 5 was quite interesting and some people have speculated it could be tarot related given some of the tarot references in BNHA. In particular the fifth card is teh Hierophant which apparently symbolizes: Marriage, alliance, captivity, servitude; by another account, mercy, and goodness; inspiration.

Later, the next day, we have this twitter. This is from Kobayashi Ryota who is the actor who plays Bakugou in the Ultra Stage musical (more info on the musical here). The tweet reads "I purchased the last volume of Heroaca. I've read it". The last volume is volume 36, where the famous chapter 362 is located. The additional video is the actor playing a romantic song dedicating it to volume 36.

This is the translation of the songs lyrics:

The same day, Noguchi's mutual on twitter Hidero Mashi (who works on another work: "Prince of Stride") comments on Kobayashi's tweet, and later on Noguchi and Hidero Mashi ends up in a twitter space talking Bkdk. (just know that Hidero Mashi has been drawing bkdk fanarts for quite a while, in the past).

They both draw Bkdk dancing (here is Hidero's art and here is Noguchi's art), and Hidero even tries to (unsuccessfully) explain to Noguchi what the omegaverse is.

Noguchi also posts this amazing fanart (link here)

Where we have again the number 5.

This time we have 5 hearts on Bakugou's shirt, and they are drawn EXACTLY like the card "5 of hearts" which represents marriage:

EDIT: Bri translated their twitter space discussion

[star1117-archives]

Welcome to star1117-archives’ modified version of Kinktober !! I wanted to put a spin on the well-known month, and since this month entails everything sinful, what better theme to choose ?? Inspired by the seven deadly sins, Sintober is gonna make you wish you could partake in these ungodly activities..

Lust : OCT 22

1. Lingerie (J.YH)

2. Sexting (P.SH)

3. Dirty Talk (K.HJ)

4. Lap Dance (S.MG)

Envy : OCT 22

5. Cuckholding (J.YH + S.MG)

6. Rebound (K.HJ)

7. Marking (C.S)

8. Infidelity (J.WY)

Wrath : OCT 23

9. Hate Sex (J.WY)

10. Bondage (C.JH)

11. Orgasm Denial (P.SH)

12. Knife Play (K.YS)

Greed : ?

13. Overstimulation (C.S)

14. Threesome (P.SH + K.HJ)

15. Maid Roleplay (J.YH)

16. Multiple Rounds (S.MG)

17. Erotic Massage (K.YS)

Sloth : ?

18. Morning sex (S.MG)

19. Somnophilia (C.S)

20. Lovemaking (C.JH)

21. Humping (P.SH)

22. Semi-Public Sex (J.WY)

Gluttony : ?

23. Oral Sex (K.YS)

24. Drunk Sex (K.HJ)

25. Food (J.YH)

26. High Sex (J.WY)

27. Blood-Drinking (K.YS)

Pride : ?

28. Mirror Sex (C.JH)

29. Exhibitionism (K.HJ)

30. Public Sex (C.S)

31. Volume Control (C.JH)

[ Dates, members and kinks are all unconfirmed. Some may change, some may not. ]

[mylittleredgirl]

20 questions for fic writers

thanks @annerbhp for the tag! i really enjoyed reading her answers too!

1. How many works do you have on ao3?

215

2. What’s your total ao3 word count?

646,705 (average of 3k per fic, which sounds about right)

3. What fandoms do you write for?

stargate atlantis most often, followed by sg-1, various star treks, and the x-files (with other miscellaneous fandoms on demand for exchanges and gifts).

4. What are your top five fics by kudos?

No Sooner Met (voyager, janeway/chakotay)

Career Day (sg-1, mini!otp)

Next Chapter (the good place, chidi/eleanor)

First Date (voyager, janeway/chakotay) editor's note: man my title game was weak in my voyager era

Occupational Hazards (the good place, chidi/eleanor)

it's so funny to spend my online time in small or inactive fandoms and look at statistics because i'm like yeah... i'm kind of a big deal... people know me... i have many leather-bound volumes... and not a single one of my fics crack 300 kudos (& very few over 100). the person i reblogged from topped out over 9,000! what's it like to write long fics for popular fandoms? is it cool?

5. Do you respond to comments? Why or why not?

i do now! and it's awesome! for a long time i was intimidated by praise and had a hard time responding, but my brain works now and i really enjoy exchanging comments that turn into long threads of headcanon back-and-forth and sometimes new friends.

6. What is the fic you wrote with the angstiest ending?

oh god PLEASE let me unburden my soul about Twilight (sga, john/elizabeth). it's so uncharacteristically hopeless for me -- far future fic, complicated family dynamics, elizabeth has dementia and john is estranged from their son... really no one is having a good time. i think it's interesting and a cool departure from my usual writing style, but it's also a big sad mess.

i still feel sooooo guilty about these two thousand words of misery that i REGULARLY think about writing a sequel where john and his son fix it with time travel and mend fences. like i lie awake at night worrying about these characters because one time in 2007 i didn't give them a happy ending and suggested john might not break the bad father generational cycle. normal fic writer behavior.

7. What’s the fic you wrote with the happiest ending?

Weaving Loose Ends (sg-1, sam/jack)! i love happy and hopeful endings but i think of all of them, this one is the most resolved and least complicated.

8. Do you get hate on fic?

nope. oh!!!! there was the one time when i caused Big Drama in a corner of the Dancing With The Stars fandom by turning people's headcanons into rpf, which everyone liked until one included porn. people got so heated with each other over this one smut fic (doxing! splinter factions! a fandom schism!) but somehow no one was ever actually mean to me. i didn't even get blocked or banned for my rpf transgressions, i was just standing there at the eye of the storm. so... i guess the answer is still no??

9. Do you write smut?

yes! i should probably write more, though. it has been all slow and gauzy the past few years, somebody should really get railed pretty soon.

10. Do you write crossovers?

nope.

11. Have you ever had a fic stolen?

i don't think so. happily toiling in obscurity.

12. Have you ever had a fic translated?

back in the x-files days i think someone translated some of my doggett/reyes fics for a spanish archive, so those might still be out there.

13. Have you ever co-written a fic before?

no i haven't!! i am really not doing well collecting my fic writer girl scout badges here!!

14. What’s your all-time favourite ship?

john sheppard/elizabeth weir my beloved.

15. What’s a WIP you want to finish but probably won’t?

i have 10k of an sg-1 episode-by-episode soulmate fic that started really strong and i would love to share someday, but i lack staying power so it will surely just go to seed in my dropbox forever!!

16. What are your writing strengths?

hopefully character complexity and dialogue. dialogue is interesting in fanfic, because the dialogue on many TV shows is really different than how real humans speak (it's scripted to be clearer, more concise and direct, uninterrupted, etc), so it's a fun challenge to balance that and get something that sounds both in-character and realistic.

17. What are your writing weaknesses?

long fics!

the big related weakness is that i find it incredibly difficult to keep writing on a fic after i show it to anyone (as a sneak peek, or because i want feedback / encouragement / brainstorming help). i lose steam on my own, but posting or inviting other people into the process is like pouring sugar in the gas tank. why is that!! how do i fix this!!!

and i don't know if this is a "writing weakness" or an "egregious personal character flaw" but i sure did finish an exchange fic this year literally forty seconds before reveals, so that's... pretty bad.

18. Thoughts on writing dialogue in another language in fic?

SO SCARY aughhhh my fear of Being Wrong really nukes me here. it doesn't even have to be a real language. it's like the ghost of JRR Tolkein himself is standing over my shoulder telling me that if i don't backwards engineer an entire proto-latinate space language instead of just chucking words into google translate and calling it Ancient i'm committing unpardonable sins.

19. First fandom you wrote for?

star trek! first internet-published fics were x-files, but first limited-print-edition fics were xeroxed hand-bound voyager stories my sister and i would give as "gifts" to family friends (and then stand there staring at them while they read the first few pages and told us how clever and creative we were and promised to "read the rest later").

20. Favourite fic you’ve written?

new answer! i have always answered this before with ain't no sunshine (sga, john/elizabeth) or career day (sg-1, mini!otp), but i think i really stuck the landing this year on pieces (sga, john/elizabeth). which, incidentally, is the one i finished forty seconds before reveals so i'm definitely not going to learn anything from that narrow escape.

tagging @ussjellyfish if you haven't already done this one, @coraclavia, @havocthecat, @lonesomehighways, and anyone else who made it through this long post and would like to do it!

[10dance]

Sugiki Shinya || 10 Dance, vol. 4

Sugiki didn’t get as many lines this volume since a lot of it is focused on Suzuki’s backstory and future career. He looked grumpy most of the time, but I specifically looked for varied expressions for this set. His dab in chapter 16 and blush in 21 are both classics for me.

Sugiki Shinya | volumes [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7]

Suzuki Shinya | volumes [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7]

[queseraone]

Okay so now that the season is over and the dust has settled… and also to give us all something to do over the hiatus: what are your five favorite chenford scenes/moments from season 6?

Ooooh, this was fun! Some of these were easy choices, and some took a little more thought.

5. The 17st Trophy (in 6x03)

This was so incredibly sweet, and spoke volumes about how Tim was truly putting in the effort to be supportive of Lucy and her aspirations. The fact that he was able to make her smile and laugh after such a trying day is a testament to how well they understand each other. (And, hello, “you could never disappoint me”??? That ended me!)

4. The Kojo Card (in 6x08)

This scene!!!!!! I've missed Kojo so much (and I try not to think too much about all the moments we missed out on while Tim and Lucy were together), so it was so nice to have him back again. This scene perfectly showcases how deeply Tim and Lucy still care about each other. It showed us how Tim is facing the consequences of his decision to end the relationship, and it showed Lucy that he absolutely still cares. It's such a beacon of hope. (Oh, and I think it laid the groundwork for the elevator hug of 6x09, which, fun fact, was a very close #6 on my list. Had this scene not happened, I don't think Lucy would had shown up quite so easily for Tim then.)

3. The Dance (6x02)

Look, the way they can have an entire conversation without saying a single word will forever be one of my favourite things about Chenford, and this was a beautiful showcase of that. The looks on their faces as Tim approached Lucy said it all. And then we see them come together again, and talk and tease and banter and kiss, and they honestly didn't even need to say I love you, because it's written all over their faces and in their body language—it's just so damn obvious. (Oh, and excuse me perfect song choice.)

2. The Breakup (6x06)

Oops, sorry not sorry, but this scene was absolutely incredible. It. Fucking. Hurts. (I literally just sat there staring blankly at my screen for a solid 10 minutes after it ended). But my god, the acting is impeccable. Every word, every look, everything... it's so emotional, no matter how many times I watch it. Eeep even now just looking at this gif I feel like crying and/or throwing up, and that just tells you how amazing it is haha.

1. The Hospital Scene (6x04)

This scene was everything, and, frankly, has earned a place on my list of all-time favourite Chenford scenes. The strong, steady quiet moments like this are so powerful—Tim and Lucy are absolutely each other's safe space.