#I am NOT scary PLEASE believe me I am but a little dude

[kakusu-shipping]

Encase anyone was wondering why I’m blogging at 6 in the morning, yesterday was not a good day for me and I forgot to sleep.

[hearts401]

Tessa fucks me up dude can I just talk about her for a sec? Yeah? Yeah.

She loved those drones. She loved them because they were what she had. She felt sympathy for them when nobody else did. And I like to think there was a little bit of loneliness motivating her as well.

Her mother hated her. She was nothing to her. When her mother scolded her by saying "seems you still can't follow simple orders" her respone was "No, no no! Please!" BEGGING. Begging her mother to believe in her and be kind to her. She got chained up in her room (multiple times btw. At leas tthats implied. the hand she winced at and rubbed is the same hand the chain was on, which means shed be chained up long enough for it to rub her skin painfully. long enough to leave lasting pain.)

She is very connected to these drones, to the point where she kept all the error drones aroud because she LOVED them. She spent time digging them up. HELL SHE TOOK A FAMILY PHOTO WITH THEM DUDE...

Even when Cyn was creepy and scary, she kept her around. She'd rather lock Cyn up than get rid of her. and when n points it out, shes apologetic and hesitant. But we know WHY she did that. Even if it was kind of a sucky move, it was because she didnt wanna have to throw cyn out. and in the end that killed her.

Also she knows J well enough to know what sets her off (enough to. bite the shit out of a chain). She knows them. and she loves them.

I wish we'd gotten to know more about her an N. why is he so clearly her favorite? but thats not relevant ig

also her saying "I've only ever yakked to robots, J!" She has NO human friends. she has nobody to support her other than these robots. these robots who get treated like garbage by her family.

and then she has to watch these robots turn on her. Not just THESE ROBOTS but the three that she loved most. (also im going off what wouldve happened in ep 5 WITHOUT uzi, where n doesnt get out of the swamp, and nobody goes down to the basement)

V first, then Cyn, then J. And we KNOW she loved these three+N especially bc she took a family photo w them, interacted with them more often, and generally just seemed much closer with them.

and what does she get for it? killed. And also its implied by this screenshot that she wasnt ACTUALLY killed by cyn right then

(the scientists, the sword beside her, the footprints, the way shes sitting against the wall, the expression she has. she totally just saw all that shit)

and she cant have been skyn bc the scientists wouldve known. the skinsuit wasnt exactly. hm. pretty.

which means she DID see her whole family+more slaughtered in front of her while she was powerless to stop it. She DID see J violently kill everyone around her. She DID see Cyn kill everyone. And she just has to. Deal with that. And despite all her efforts, the solver took over and cyn killed her. (im assuming tessa died somewhere around when n's mineshaft flashback was like i mentioned b4)

and all the while she was convinced shed lose N, id assume. based on the state of the other drone out there.

And honestly, i think what she got was worse.

also i am team "N knew Tessa wasn't the same Tessa he knew back on Earth"

The way he looked at her, and the way he was suspicious of her. He knew HIS Tessa would never treat a drone like this. Cyn has been known to have relatively shitty recreations of people at times (like Thad in episode two) But even so there was no way he could believe it was someone else (like. who would it be? he saw her blood he heard her voice like...) which is why he was so stressed after killing her (when he leaned on his sword and was breathing heavy, yk?)

he loved her and she loved him and now shes dead. just like everyone else he loved.

this isnt about n but like. idk if tessa could see him now i think shed cry. she loved him and all of them

[bitchinbarzal]

“but hear me out,, mase always swore he’d never be like mama mct’s ex boyf bc he was a piece of shit,, then he goes and cheats on her… that’s definitely that catalyst in mason & trevor’s friendship bc trevor trusted mason with his baby sister”

Just this… 👐🏻

It happened before they were together so could I really be considered cheating, Trevor thought so.

It was all fun and laughter in the ducks locker room majority of the time. Guys would make digs at one another it was all quite fun.

Jamie and his wife had recently announced their venture to adopt a babygirl and were picking out names so the team decided to weigh in.

Names were thrown about until Jamie said “My mom said Lola”

“Hey Tav, remember when you fucked that girl from where was it? Texas or something? Wasn’t her name Lola?” Someone shouts and Mason’s body freezes.

“Hard to believe Mason was ever with anyone who wasn’t little Z, she’s got him wrapped around his finger for like three years now”

The teammate frowns “No… tav you screwed that girl like three-“

“Okay enough dude” Mason snaps and Trevor interjects “No, let him finish. He screwed this girl when?”

“Like three years ago? It was what start of the season?”

Trevor looks at Mason who is visibly on edge before he pounces on him “You son of a bitch!”

Everyone has to get in to rip them away from one another. Eventually pulling them apart while their chests heave

“I trusted you! She trusted you! You have a baby!” Trevor screams.

“I know, I know ok?! We weren’t together yet and it was just one stupid night Z!” Mason défends to which Trevor snarls

“The first night, the night you picked her up I told you, I said to you to take care of her! You promised me!”

Trevor didn’t often get so wound up when it didn’t concern his kids but his baby sister was not grounds for disrespect.

“Trev it was nothing!”

Trevor rolls his eyes and grabs his bag “You better tell her”

“Trevor she’s just had a baby, I can’t-“

“Tell her. Or I will” he snaps, leaving the locker room.

When Mason left the facility he drove around a bit just trying to hold off coming home so he wouldn’t have to face you.

When he eventually walked in you were sat with Jude on the couch reading to him

“Hey sweet boy” you greet, standing up to meet him in the doorway “Say Hi Jude, hi daddy”

The sweet moment is followed by a silent pause when mason says “Babe can you sit down? I have to speak with you”

You frown “Baby what’s wrong?”

“Please?” He gestured to the couch and you oblige, shushing Jude in the process.

Mason leans against the coffee table and you say

“Mason just say it, you’re scaring me!”

“I slept with someone” he blurts out and your heart drops.

“You What?”

He sighs “It was a long time ago, it was when you went back to New York to stay with your parents after your ex and you said you needed space so I went out and I just- fuck babe I’m sorry, ok?”

“So you just stuck your dick in another woman because what? I needed space?” You Ask and it’s scary how calm you are.

“It wasn’t like that! I didn’t know if you’d even want me when you got back!”

“But you didn’t care to find out eh? What happens if she’d stuck around? Would you have been with her? Would this never have happened?”

The this in question is gestured by pointing between you both and mason looks at your sleeping baby boy, thinking of the life where he wasn’t here.

“I didn’t want to hurt you”

You scoff “Well you have”

“Babe please it’s not like I did it ever again, we weren’t together!”

“But we had an emotional connection Mason! I wanted you and you couldn’t wait until the next thing that opened her legs came along” you cried “I thought you weren’t like him”

His face drops “Hey, I am nothing like him!”

“Oh yeah? I’m not finding all that much different right now” you taunt and mason knows you’re trying to get under his skin so he lets it slide.

He sighs “What do you want me to do, I’ll do anything to prove how sorry I am” he begs and you nod

“After this, I’m done” you nod to Jude “I don’t want anymore babies with you”

You’d spoken about at least three kids with you being one of four and mason being one of two.

“What-“

“And I don’t want to get married” you reply, handing back the ring he’d recently given you when you’d given birth “I can’t trust you won’t break by heart again”

Mason watches then as you stand up and drop a sleeping baby Jude in his arms and walk out the room. Then Jude begins crying to which mason hushed him and mumbles

“I know exactly how you’re feeling bud”

[love-imagineitall]

Let Her Go

Pairing: Victor Zsasz x Assassin!Female!Reader

This is set in the first season only a little bit after Zsasz is at the GCPD for Gordon. Also I don't think I mention it in the story, but the reason that the reader was in prison for two years without getting broken out or anything was to go in and make more contacts in the female criminal world. Falcone had asked her to and after she thought she was done, he pulled his strings to get her released immediately.

TW: usual Gotham violence and allusions to smut, heavy make out sesh.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Are you kidding me Gordon!?!?"

"What the hell are you talking about Harvey?"

"Please don't tell me that is who I think it is that you have in that interrogation room?"

"Again I ask what are you talking about? I brought her in for killing a man right in front of me."

"Oh god," Harvey groaned shaking his head, "let her go right now" he said with a tone of urgency that Jim hadn't heard from his partner before.

"No, I've told you many times I'm not going to turn the other way just because these criminals have money or power," he says to Harvey seeming to be frustrated with his partner and the entire city of Gotham, as he steps back into the interrogation room.

"So, (Y/N) (L/N)? You want to tell me why you killed an innocent man? What did you want with him?"

"You must be the new hot shot," the woman in front of him smiled mischievously with her feet up on the desk. The way she smiled an kept her calm like that did concern Jim a little, but he pushed on.

"Gordon. Detective Jim Gordon nice to meet you. Now tell me why did you do it?"

"Jim... hmm, Jimbo can I call you Jimbo? I'm gonna call you Jimbo."

Harvey then entered the room and Jim noticed that he looked different, frightened even.

"Harvey! Long time no see"

"Hello (Y/N), I am so sorry about my partner. We will get you out of here as soon as we can there is no need to let any one know that you are here."

"No, Harvey, no we won't. She murdered a man right in front of me, she has to go to prison, but first I am going to find out why?"

"I love the place by the way it's been a while. Have you guys redecorated?"

"(Y/N)! I am done playing games with you now you are going to tell me what I want to know or I'm going to have to send you away for a long long time!" Jim yells, the frustration pouring out of him.

"Ooh, feisty" the woman says with a smile on her face. She turns to Harvey, "I like him"

"(Y/N)-," Jim starts.

"Look boys I'm only here because I wanted to take a look around, but now I've met the new guy and seen enough. I'd like to leave now"

"Are you kidding? That isn't how this works princess I saw you with my own eyes murder a man in cold blood, this is the police so yeah the only place that you are going is to prison."

The woman turns to Harvey, completely ignoring Jim, "Harvey, I'd say you got about a minute to let me go... we don't want a repeat of the last time now do we?"

"No ma'am" he says quietly shaking his head while pulling Jim to the side.

"You need to let her go like now," he says while constantly checking his watch.

"Who the hell is she Harvey?"

"You remember Victor Zsasz?"

"How could I forget?"

"Well look as scary and creepy as that dude is, she's a hundred times worse, she's even more deadly of an assassin than he is if you can believe that, but as of right now we haven't pissed her off. The thing I'm worried about is that those two aren't just colleagues, they've got this weird thing... and, and, and-"

"And what Harvey?"

"And he's not gonna be too happy that we've got his girl in lockup after he hasn't seen her for 2 years"

Just then the two detectives hear a gun shot, Harvey looks wide eyed at Jim, and pulls him back into the interrogation room.

"Uncuff her Jim! Uncuff her!"

"Right on time," (Y/N) says with a smile on her face.

The two detectives hurriedly rush to uncuff the woman sitting in front of them. As soon as they have her free and very pissed off Zsasz enters the room with guns a blazing.

"Hello darling," he says with a smile to (Y/N), immediately turning his attention and guns towards the detectives. The smile previously on the assassin's face now completely wiped away and replaced with an anger never seen before.

"Come on honey, we were just leaving" she grabs Zsasz by the arm, "oh and Jimbo, I'll see you around," the pair walking off with her sending Jim a wink. Zsasz walks with his girl out of the GCPD quietly leaving everyone there in awe and fear.

After the pair of assassins return to Falcone's house, (Y/N) immediately drags Victor up to the bedroom. After all the pair hadn't been this close in two years what with the woman being locked up in Blackgate prison.

"Ugh-" Victor groans as he pulls her in for a very hungry kiss

The two of them wasting no time and immediately going to the bed. She jumps on top of him, taking control and kissing him with even more passion.

She rips open his vest and going to pull down his pants when he flips her over and regains control, immediately kissing her again and pulling her shirt off. As the two are going at it and undressing each other, one of Falcone's men walks through the door to tell them to come down stairs, but as soon as he opens the door and begins to speak both assassins pull out their guns and shoots the man without breaking the kiss.

The pull back for a moment to catch their breath, and as they are breathing heavily, Victor tucks a piece of hair behind (Y/N)'s ear, flashes a toothy grin, and says "you are never leaving for that long again you hear me?"

Chuckling and grinning back at him, she replies, "wouldn't dream of it sweetness"

[plantboiart]

Hello. List of what animals I believe each just roll with it pc I know would be. I am objectively correct but if you disagree please tell me anyways I crave other people’s opinions to steal.

Riptide

Jay: a bird, obviously. Saying she’s a jaybird is easy and low hanging fruit and extremely valid. Personally I think she’s maybe a corvid since very smart but also absolute fucking menace. Honestly? Could be a seagull. Loud and lives near water and also smart but also? Absolutely insane. Yeah sure I could say she’s something cool like an eagle or whatever but I think in our hearts we all know she’s a seagull.

Gillion: of course he is a sea creature! But what kind? Fish. More specifically? Swordfish. Of course. What else could he be (he could be a shark but shhhh im saving that one for later)

Chip: the bastard man himself! Which animals are the biggest bastards? Raccoons. Yes I am basic. He’s either a raccoon or a little dog. I am specifically thinking my mom’s 11 year old small dog who yells at men and tries to pick a fight with every single dog that is larger than her. That’s some Chip energy right there.

Goobleck: bro who knows like what the hell is that thing i do not. Hes whatever he ate most recently. Bros fursona is just straight up slime. He is an enigma.

Prime defenders (+Ashe I don’t care that technically he was just a guest he deserves to be here)

William: ravens, black cats, bats, butterflies, snakes, crows. All associated with death which makes sense for our little ghost guy! But of course we can’t forget wolves! He has two wolves inside of him after all. But also? He is not cool enough to be a wolf. That man is a black cat with a dream and sharp sharp claws.

Vyncent: I think it would be funny to call him a rat. Since he eats them. And also he just kinda is a rat. But no, I believe he is a deer. Don’t really know why, just….. vibes.

Dakota: my beloved son. He’s a yappy little dog. Bouncing all over the place and screaming at evil-doers. I believe in him.

Ashe: strong cat energy. Is william already a cat? Yes. But so is ashe. He’s like a fully gray cat with short hair :)

Apotheosis

Rumi/Elena: fox! Because Sunny :) also because I can’t really think of an animal that would be a good representation for an identity crisis

Peter: “lizard” no. Peter Sqloint is a mouse. Just a lil guy. I’m right fuck you he. Is. A. Mouse.

Thanatos: spider! Kinda scary and lots of people dont like but in reality just an awesome dude. Shoutout to my friend’s pet spider Mörkö I love them

Blood in the bayou

Rolan: shark!!!! Im right and i need to say it. That man is a fucking shark. I love sharks. Sharks are generally misunderstood as violent and evil but they are just lil guys. Fits Rolan being an evil alien monster but just also a lawyer. (Also i just really like sharks)

Rand: y’all ever cry about pigeons? How we domesticated them and then abandoned them when we didnt need them anymore? How they dont even know how to make proper nests because they didnt need to for so long? Yeah. Im normal about this campaign.

Kian: he’s so hard to figure out because like…….. honestly? In canon? Weve got no fucking clue what his personality is actually like. We dont get a single moment with all the masks off and just the person underneath. The closest we get is him admitting that hes not really a rockstar and even that is so short and just. Auehgeh. This is why im obsessed with him btw i love a mystery i know will never be solved. Also so much room for headcanons. Is he a cat? A butterfly? A dog? A snake? A songbird? A dove? Something else? I dont know!! Lets go with a moth

The suckening

They are all cats. I mean c’mon. Emizel is a feral street cat that hisses at everyone who gets too close. Shilo is an indoor cat with an anxiety disorder. Arthur is their mother. Im correct.

[notallangelsaregood]

My thoughts on Spy x Family Chapter 83

Needless to say, my folks, huge manga spoilers ahead 🌹

Oh, boy, I was totally wrong! He he, but also, I got some things right!

No more guns, thanks, Lord! What was this wait? I was anxious, trying to keep my head off the upcoming update, and It was successful, I relaxed a little bit and BOOM, Sunday came, and I didn't even realize It was chapter's day, until I saw the notification on my smartphone and read it all in 10 seconds (have I mentioned I'm diagnosed with anxiety? No? Okay, yeah).

Now I'm trying to analyze a little bit of this week's chapter with you all while trying to stay sane till the next one, may Endo help us! So, I got a few hypotheses right! Actually, I believe only one 🤣

No revelations yet!

Which is something I'm really grateful for, even though we can not be sure if it will happen in the next chapters, I truly believe it won't. I feel like it's not the moment, the manga is at its peak (so is the anime) gaining a huge amount of notoriety and I don't Believe Endo would rush things, not right now. So I'm glad, I really feel revelations will make the story take a huge turn that we are not quite ready for it. There's so much to happen yet! What is the Garden? Which side is the organization it? What about Westalis? We know nothing. Spy x Family is a huge slow burn, and I'm all in for it.

CAN SOMEONE CALL THE POLICE? OH, WAIT, NO, NEVERMI-

Twillight is the one hurt, I'm surprised, truly. Yuri is quite a soldier, however, the hesitation present there was bigger than Twilight's ability, reflex and advantage (since he was the one pointing the gun first). My heart truly hurts for seeing him injured, I can't even explain. We've grown fond of our Spy, and It's not a nice feeling. At all

I know, I know he will be fine, he can't die or anything (haha, can he?😨) But still, it is making my heart hurts. In need for those "Yor takes care of Loid's wounds" fanfictions, please? Moving on.

See? Our Twilight is a smart guy. He senses his wavering. He knows it is there, but he doesn't understand why. He can't figure that by hurting (or killing) Yuri, he would deeply hurt Yor, and he would not do that. His unconscious is pretty clearly messing up with his conscious mind and decision-making. I doubt he will bring that up to the Handler, but it's possible, since they know each other very well. My guess is that Sylvia will just know. He won't even say a word and she will know.

Yeah, Yuri boy, I would totally be creeped out as well. His ability is outstanding and scary, even.

See? This guy had this major hypothesis (which is right?) figured in like, 5 seconds? He is so bright, Yor is proud as floof as she should. Yes, Yuri, he is someone close to you, someone observing you.

"But that doesn't matter now!" It will surely matter once you find out, but my guess is that he will keep that insight for himself, trying to figure it out on his own, but who knows? It will certainly be on his head, constantly.

Yuri's hair, I'm like 🤣 Our poor boy. Yes, Yuri, Twilight is tough, but so are you! What am I even saying? I don't have a side in this (kinda do). I want both of them not to be involved, never again fighting, for my heart's sake. They are both precious babies I want to keep them protected, but It's not up to us, right, Endo? Humpf...

Oh, well. GOOD THING he will live, Twilight, thank you for your unintentional totally intentional mercy.

I'm

Not okay. Look at his expression. I'm dying. I'm out of breath. Why is Endo like this? I mean, we are in a serious as floof situation, with conflict going on and you drew what? An expression like that which made me burst out laughing at 3 a.m? Dude.

He is a tough boy, I must admit.

Those expressions are killing me. And the worse, I don't know which one is which. That kick must have decreased the chances of a large family lineage for one of them, for sure 🍒 If you know what I mean.

Yuri on his fight mode is scary (not as much, but it is), just like his sister. I believe one of Endo's objectives is to make us scared of the Briar's brothers and damn, boy, yeah. I don't like that "I will kill everything on my way" expression.

This was such on point. I loved it, I mean, his floofing daughter is being raised by Yor, so I would consider it a huge plus. Besides, he is thinking of her consciously right now. It's not his unconscious, unknown feelings and thoughts. He is rationalizing and that's major.

Yeah, that resilience is not even NORMAL anymore. Mama Yor, can you pick me up? I'm scared 😨

Oh, well, okay, that's expected. Poor Yuri is going to be so hurt after this. I'm wondering if Yor will know about his or Twilight's injuries, she is not as bright as his brother, but she can think about it later, can't she? I wonder If Yuri will visit her while recovering. The tension in the air if Loid is also on this meeting. Damn. This was so much better than a revelation or a simply hurt Twilight. This growing tension makes things so much better (and torturing).

He is such a good brother.

And this expression right here is a Twilight on Twilight Conflicted Mode. Yeah, I just made that up, but he is clearly conflicted, may be in pain and not getting understanding a single thought coming from his mind. Only focused on getting out of there, leaving that behind.

Okay, from this part on I understood ✨ nothing ✨

My reasoning is not that nice and I should be sleeping right now, but I can't due to anxiety, so bear with me, please.

Yes, it did! WISE is the best, haha, wha-

Okay, she is also incredible smart, yada yada, I don't want to write about Fiona. Let's move on!

Damn, folks. Theories? My brain is jello. I can't even function due to the last of sleep, but here I am. Make sure to talk to me in the comments, I really appreciate it. Sorry for any misspelling or typos. Be sure to leave a beautiful kudo and talk to me about what you think will happen next!

I'm certainly less nervous about it, our last chapter was very open to where this one would go, and I'm glad of two things, mainly

No time skip! It started right where it was left.

Our boys are fine! Yuri will be fine. Thank you, Endo!

I miss our girls so much, and Bond boy! 😭

[waitmyturtles]

GMMTV 2024 Part 2, let's go

I've had my MULTIPLE cawfees and I'm watching the GMMTV Part 2 trailers. @my-rose-tinted-glasses, this one's for you!

TL;DR what I'm excited for: Ossan's Love with trepidation; Revamp: The Undead, I'm first in line; The Ex-Morning with open arms; Us, once we have a better sense of the screenplay; Sweet Tooth, Good Dentist, drop it like it's hot, Mark; Thame-Po, boys look gewd

****

1) Ossan's Love: THE KEY WORDS BEING "INSPIRED BY"

If I take away the inclination to do any sort of comparisons to the Japanese version whatsoever ("INSPIRED BY"), I'm thrilled that EarthMix get to do romcom. Earth at this level of baka is utterly unbelievable to me, you are too smokin' hot, boy, but try to bring it, because if you do, and it's a success, then I'll be fucking really impressed.

2) Leap Day: Looks scary. Gun!

3) The Heart Killers: ...

Man. Man! First in muscle shirts and an earring, kisses pushed up against walls, etc. Where have we seen this before. Lemme guess, they all get together in the end. I would like to force myself to be excited about this somehow, Jojo on 10 Things, but. I haven't been there with JoongDunk yet, either, so actually, they seemed kinda refreshing against the FK vibes, ha. Anyway, this reignited my OF burnout, which I'm honestly trying to ignore as I get close to re-watching The Eclipse for my Old GMMTV Challenge project. @my-rose-tinted-glasses, my trust issues switch is flipped to "on."

(Get Jojo away from ships, please. He had Tay kissing Joss and Mild in the same year AFTER Dark Blue Kiss. He fucking doesn't need to use ships.)

4) Friendshit Forever: no subs, seems intense, the gals are smokin', NEW AND BOUN?! Hate to say it, but even without knowing what this is exactly about, I'm intrigued? My Boun! New and Boun!

5) Perfect 10 Liners: They're letting New Siwaj do 30 episodes, folks. I have no predictions on this one, y'all will have to tell me if it's good. Perth is back with New Siwaj directing after 2018's Love By Chance. If they give Chimon a little comedy, I'll be happy. I asked for Junior again, but maybe I wasn't expecting him to go to school, but I will admit I like JuniorMark together, and if they get to helm 10 episodes as the center stars, then good for them! Maybe that'll be the bit of this series that I watch.

6) Us: I believe in this screenplay more than how 23.5 is working out. I think Fon Kanittha needs more stuff on her plate to play around with to make a great show. This trailer was great. I'm watching My Precious the Series now (after having watched the movie this past weekend, which I was disappointed by -- the series is MUCH better, and going better than 23.5), and I'm seeing that Fon does stuff very well, background community building that gives us macro- and micro-level understandings of her characters. If those levels are Sing Harit, I'm here for it, that was an unexpected appearance, but if he's recalling the strength he brought to Todd in Not Me, then I'm a happy camper.

7) Hide and Sis: I love Piploy. Wednesday Club was a total holiday trash watch for me last year, but I loved her a lot. Looks like they're promoting this as a multi-generational show with known older actors, the approach of which I like. Everyone hates each other and maybe tries to kill each other; Keeping Up With the Thai Kardashians, maybe? Surprise, Gawin's a cop. Chimon as murderer, I'll support that.

8) Thame-Po: This looks cute. I'll consider a pre-order! Separately, I happen to adore cute Lego from LYKN, so good on those dudes for getting a show, and I like that William is pushing his boundaries outside of music.

9) Break-Up Service: I am happy that Off has gotten this kind of sneaky love romcom (?) role.

10) Revamp: The Undead: I'm here for it. I'm so happy for BounPrem. I'm happy to see some strong support dudes in Kay and Mark in this project. I haven't watched My Only 12%, so I don't know from Santa, but I know a lot of friends love him. I am totally seated. GMMTV is really the BL Machine, huh, absorbing this project.

11) Sweet Tooth, Good Dentist: Do not get me wrong, I am very excited about this; I am just wondering if Baby Ohm needs a little workshopping to get more diversity in his expressions. But I am very excited, Mark looks SO DOWN and ready to lead. View! Jimmy! I'm good with this.

12) The Dark Dice: High School Squid Game, I can't

13) The Ex-Morning: I gotta admit. This kind of moment is one of the reasons why I'm so happy doing the OGMMTVC. The big-ass smile I had on my face seeing KristSingto again, even though I really wasn't the biggest fan of SOTUS -- I've done a whole accountability turn on Krist after seeing him in Be My Favorite, and I appreciate that this show will go meta on the KristSingto background. It fucking sucks that Shadow sucked, because Singto is such a good actor, just seems like his scripts are here and there lately, but anyway. Aof Noppharnach writing this? Last Twilight ended cringe, but I'm still an Aof girlie, so I am 100% excited for this.

14) Scarlet Heart Thailand: That wasn't really a trailer, but considering the reputation the base story has in Asia and globally, I like, business-wise, what this means for GMMTV, a historical that will have appeal to multiple generations. I understand the original novel for this, Bu Bu Jing Xin, isn't translated into English, and that's a bummer, because it seems like this Thai version, which has already been dramatized in China and Korea, is based squarely on the novel. Fuck Win. These were the kinds of shows I loved as a kid when I watched Asian shows with my folks, so I have to admit that I'm intrigued, but I would have liked to see a meatier trailer.

That's it!

[daryandricky]

SWEAR

Chapter 5 OBTAIN

Summary: Shane tells reader that Rick didn't make it after the hospital was overrun, causing reader to travel with her former military brother to find somewhere safe.

Summary of chapter: Rick's camp is infested with walkers, pushing the group out to the highway. Reader argues with Dylan.

Warnings: Swearing, torture, sa, pregnancy, basic walking dead shit.

masterlist

Rick's POV

Shane and I are walking behind our group on the highway. He's telling me a story from high school that I've heard a million times, hell I was there. I nod my head like I'm listening, throwing in a smile here and there, but my mind is elsewhere. After losing the camp and finding the CDC, I can't stop thinking about what Dr. Jenner told me. "No matter how you die, bitten or not, you will turn into one of them."

How did this virus get inside everyone? Was it in our food? Did they put it in the air somehow? Shane laughs as I assume he got to a funny part in his story, I let out a fake chuckle. Shane's smile drops, catching me.

"Dude." Shane says, looking at me annoyed. I glance over at him, acting surprised by his sudden change in demeanor. "Are you even listening to me man?" I nod my head meekly.

"Really?" Shane asks looking at me with a small smile playing on his lips. "What was I just telling you about then?"

"Uh, how you stole the principal's car." I say a little unsure. Shane shakes his head and makes a buzzer sound. "Wrong. I was telling you how I convinced my parents to let me stay at their cabin by "myself" for a weekend."

"Ah." I say nodding my head, not saying anything else. "You alright man?" Shane asks as he looks at me worriedly.

"Yeah, my mind is just somewhere else. I'm sorry, I'm listening now."

"You're thinking about them, aren't you?" Shane says sighing.

"How the hell am I not supposed to? Shane, it's the goddamn apocalypse and my wife could be dead for all I know." Shane scoffs and I glare at him.

"You really have no faith in them, do you? You think so little of them when the fact is, Dylan could do a hell of a better job at protecting y/n than you ever could." His words feel like a jab to my stomach, I look at him seething. "Shane, you know I have to believe that they are somewhere safe, but what if they aren't? It's a fucking shitty, scary world out here and I can't do a flying fuck to protect her. To protect the baby." I say, red-faced as I look at Shane. "You have your fucking family, and I might never see mine again, so please just fucking stop drilling into me about being worried about them." I whisper, afraid if I were to speak any louder, I would break.

I don't wait for a response and pick up my pace, trying to distance myself from him. Shane yells out "Rick, wait you know that's" his words seem far away, and my vision goes in and out as I take in the sight in front of me. My ears are ringing, and my head feels like its spinning. My vision is zoned in on the Dahlia flower that resides on the back windshield. My hands shake as I walk closer, tracing the sticker.

"Shit, man." I hear Shane say behind me. I see his reflection in the glass, his hands are clasped behind his neck, his face expressing shock. I walk around to the right side of the car. Blood is smeared on the doors, on the passenger side window. I feel a hand grip my arm, stopping me from walking any further. "Rick, let me look first, you know." Shane says not wanting to finish his sentence. I know what he's implying, but I have to see for myself. I yank my arm away from his grip and shake my head. "No." I whisper.

As I walk closer to the passenger window, I see no one inside, and I let out a sigh of relief. I open the door, looking around for anything that might indicate where they are, but I come up empty handed. Shane opens the trunk and sighs. "No bags man. Either they left or someone already ransacked the cars." I nod my head and let out a shaky breath. I give the car one last look, making sure I haven't missed anything, when I see her locket.

It's gold and heart shaped, hanging from the rearview mirror. I carefully unclasp it before opening the locket. Inside is a picture cut in half, from our wedding day. We're both wearing shit eating grins with cake smeared across our faces. Tears brim my eyes, but I shove them back down. I wrap the locket around my wrist, into a makeshift bracelet.

I close the door and continue walking, Shane jogging to catch up with me. "Hey that's good right? They weren't in there, so they possibly made it out." He says excitedly. All I can manage is a small "Yeah." and a smile before turning away to catch up with the group.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

You're reading a book as you lie on your back on your bed. Rick is tangled in between your legs. His elbow is resting on the mattress, with his hand holding up his head as he traces pictures onto your protruding belly. He sits up slightly and grins as he stares at your growing bump.

"What about RJ?" He asks, smirking at you. You scrunch your face up in disapproval. "What does it stand for?"

"Rick Jr." He says in a earnest tone. You try to hide your look of displeasure as you take in his suggestion, closing the book and placing it on the nightstand. You eye his expression, trying to see if he's being serious. You sigh as you are met with hopeful eyes and a sly grin.

"Richard," you begin teasingly, knowing how much he hates his full name, "no way in hell are we naming our child Rick Jr." You say giggling a little.

"Awe, c'mon baby, it's a great name! And he'd be named after a super cool and super-hot guy." He says wiggling his eyebrows as he points his thumbs towards him. You belly laugh as he continues to come up with ideas, trying to convince you that RJ is a good name.

"Baby, the name means powerful and strong. Fucking means leader." He says staring off as he waves his hand at the last sentence. You shake your head, grinning.

"C'mon it's a family name!" He tries, causing you to roll your eyes as no one besides him possesses the name Rick.

"You're vetoing that one, aren't ya?" He asks pursing his lips in defeat. You giggle as you cup his cheek and smile at the man's dedication. You had to give it to him, he really did try. "Rick as much as I love you and your name, I don't really feel like setting our kid up to be bullied at school."

"I was never bullied." He says pouting.

"Well, Rick was a more common name when you went to school. Have you met a kid recently named Richard? Or Steve? What about Franklin?" You ask, jokingly. Rick squints his eyes, trying to hide his amusement. "My name is top tier compared to those other ones." As he clicks his tongue before sighing. He shimmies his way up the bed, meeting you at your height. "I knew that one wasn't going to fly."

"Oh, you had other ones?" You ask, cringing. Rick scowls as he watches your face. "Baby, my name ideas can't possibly be that bad."

You laugh uncontrollably, and in between breaths you say, "Rick, you wanted to name our daughter Georgia. We live in fucking Georgia."

He hides his smirk and says, "Hey! It's a great name." Before whispering, "If you don't live there." He crosses his arms over his chest before looking at you and smiling. "We'll come up with something."

"You mean I'll come up with something." You say shaking your head at him. "Same thing." You give him another eyeroll.

"I love you baby." He says, looking directly into your eyes. His sudden turn of emotion wrenches your heart as he gazes at you lovingly. You tuck some of his outgrown hair behind his ear. Weird you think, it wasn't this long a few minutes ago. You brush it off, maybe you just haven't been paying enough attention to the man.

"I love you too." You say, confused. He grins at you, "I was talking to the actual baby." You snort and lightly smack his arm. "You're an asshat." You say giggling.

Suddenly the door is thrown open, and the two of you are met with a furious two-year-old, scowling. "Daddy!"

"Baby Girl!" Rick says nervously. She was always a little shit when she woke up from her nap. "Juice!"

"Go get your own juice." Rick says with wide eyes, shielding his body with yours. "No!"

"Will you just go get her some fucking juice before she rips our heads off!" You half-whisper, half-yell. "She's an ankle biter y/n." Rick looks at you fearfully, causing you to giggle. "Daddy!" She yells again, her face becoming redder by the second. "Ok, ok! Daddy will go get you some juice." He says as he climbs out of the bed, making sure to sidestep around his daughter, putting his hands between the two of them. Your daughter smiles, and happily walks towards the bed, doing grabby hands, asking you to lift her.

She climbs on top of you, placing her ear on your stomach before jabbing her finger into your side. "Baby?" She asks with wide eyes. "Yes." You hiss out as you pry her finger off of you.

Rick returns carrying a sippy cup and scowls playfully at your daughter. "You know, she's getting more and more entitled every day."

"Yeah," you sigh, directing your attention back to Rick as he hands the cup to the toddler. Your breath catches in your throat as you are met with the sight of Rick's white shirt, drenched in blood on the left side. Neither him nor your daughter seem to notice. "Rick!" You gasp, eyes wide. Rick looks at you worried, speeding to your side. "You alright baby?" He asks anxiously. You lift up his shirt and see nothing, and as his shirt falls back down, it is no longer covered in blood.

"Were ya itching to see my stomach? You know if you really wanted to see it that bad, we should have done this before she woke up." He says cocking his head in the direction of your daughter. You slowly shake your head, looking at him perplexed, as his once clean-shaven cheeks, now have grown a full beard.

"Baby?" Rick asks distressed. "You okay?'

"Yeah mom, you okay?" You hear two unfamiliar voices say, your head snapping in their direction. You're met with two teenagers, watching you with scared wide eyes. You start coughing, feeling like you can't breathe as the room fills with smoke and Rick disappears.

-----

You frantically sit up, looking for your husband, your daughter, only to find a small fire keeping you warm and your brother smoking a cigarette. You choke back the tears as you are brought back to reality, no longer in the loving arms of your husband. It feels like he was ripped away from you again, like he died again. You silently curse at your brain, irritated from its tricks and awful mind games. You run your hands through your hair, pulling it off of the nape of your neck, suddenly feeling very hot. The sun has barely risen, casting a light glow around the camp. You two finally made it to Virginia, but you haven't gone very far.

You turn your attention to Dylan, hoping he didn't notice your distress. He seems out of it as he puffs away, staring off into the distance with cold eyes, wincing every time he exhales.

"Dyl?" You ask, scrunching your face, almost like you could feel his pain. He wasn't healing as fast as you thought he would. He could barely move his head without grimacing in pain, and it's been over a week since the incident, effectively slowing down your travels.

He looks at his hands, twirling the cigarette between his fingers. "Hmm?" He asks avoiding your watchful eyes.

"Did you sleep at all?" You ask worriedly. He slowly nods his head, but his face tells you the truth. "Dylan, please don't lie to me." He shakes his head, telling you no, as tears brim his eyes, and he turns away from you.

"Dylan." You sigh as you stand, making your way towards him. You sit at his side, carefully grabbing his free hand and holding it.

"It hurts, y/n." He whispers as he flicks the cigarette away, not wanting to expose you or the baby to anymore chemicals. You lean against the tree and sigh. "I know Dylan, if you would just let me find a town and-and get you some medicine, and food, we'd be able to get to the base sooner." His hand twitches and he glares at you, "No."

"Dyl," you say, lip wobbling as you try to hold in your own tears. Damn pregnancy hormones. "I can't bear to watch you be in this much pain anymore. Please."

"No." Dylan says slightly shaking his head, as his face contorts in pain. "It's too dangerous. I don't know what I would do if I lost you."

"Well, obviously I can take care of myself." You spit at him before standing up. "Dylan we need food and medicine. We're not going to survive much longer if I don't try."

"I'm coming with you." He insists, attempting to stand up himself, as he recoils in pain.

"The fuck you are." You say seething, as you start to empty your bag, making room for supplies before grabbing your knife. "Stay. Here." You say pointing your finger at him, glaring. You start your journey towards the road, enjoying the quiet scenery.

[mad-c1oud]

Idk if ur Charlie duo request extend to Gegg but if so maybe Gegg and Antoine or Mike with the prompt “Show me where it hurts.” if not then maybe Mike & Charlie with “If you feel safer with me being there, you know I will always be there.”

dude dude dude YES I chose Mike and CHarlie for this one but I am very intrigued by Antoine... Ill be honest, I don't really know how to write Gegg but my interest is beyonf piqued... maybe in the future...

+++++

“If you feel safer with me being there, you know I will always be there.”

Charlie’s heart clenches in his chest at Mike’s blunt words. The scary thing isn’t what he’s about to do, no, it’s that he believes Mike. He does know that his brother will always be there for him. He should be apprehensive, nervous, and unwilling to look the other in the eye when he says, “Okay, I- yeah okay. Could you- Can you come with me? Please?”

But he isn't, this is all too easy. It's... Mike is safer.

Mike beams at him, usually droopy eyes bright and just as warm as ever. He slings a warm arm around his shoulder and pulls Charlie into his side hard enough to nearly send them both to the ground laughing. Just like that, the anxiety eases and Charlie almost forgets why he’s freaking out until his comms unit buzzes a few times. Mike hooks his chin over his shoulder to read the messages, a reassuring weight that helps him to actually open them in the first place. Funny what a little support makes you capable of. Ha.

Tubbo_: okay were at the adoption center now Tubbo_: maybe keep that… rash hidden Tubbo_: and remember, no weapons king

Charlie winces, tugging his sleeve down to cover the infection creeping up his arm. Mike scoffs behind him before stealing the comms and typing something into chat for him before he pushes the device back at Charlie. He doesn’t bother reading what his brother sent because it’s either in Portuguese or full of very Nice Words. He’ll laugh over it later; it’s something to look forward to.

“Would you like for me to kill him? He’s been bothering Pac and Fit too. It is a… good reason to hurt him. Don’t need one, though. But I would, for you both.”

Charlie snorts and leans away from the other, pocketing his comms before turning to face Mike. “Nah, it wouldn’t be a great first impression, yah know, killing Sunny’s pa and all.”

Mike frowns, reaching hands out to pull Charlie towards him. His brother fusses with his hair a little which is pointless, then moves to straightening his collar as he talks, “Isn’t Sunny your kid too? I think she even called you pops or something before and you haven’t even met. Shut the fuck up, man.” He rests his hands on Charlie’s shoulders and squeezes hard, “Just be you, I think she’ll like that.”

Charlie can’t help it, can’t help but ask, “Even when they find out about Tilín?”

And oh boy, top ten ways to make Mike mad! New one found: whatever the fuck Charlie just said.

“I am- I will kill you, no wait I will let Mine kill you. You are so- filho da puta estúpido. Graças a Deus não somos parentes de sangue,” he groans, dragging a hand down his face, “Okay, we are going to go meet these two. Together. You will do fine, Sunny will love you, and Tubbo will shut his hole.”

“That’s a pretty difficult hole to shut-”

Mike sighs, “Slime.”

“Sorry just- nervous.” Charlie breathes and Mike similarly relaxes, frown easing into a small smile. He throws another arm around Charlie and walks them to the waystone as he talks.

“They are going to love you, meu irmão. I know I do and I am always right. Don’t insult me like that.”

Charlie does not cry, but it’s a damn near thing.

[colderdrafts]

9: The fight

The Great Assembly, gender neutral reader x monster (male naga). Sfw. Tw for violence/blood. Previous Next

You rush to a sitting position, and start scrolling through the messages first. The first few are just updates from Irwin, with attached photos of him hanging out with Elise, and pictures of pretty stuff they’ve seen. There’s a selfie of him with his arm slung around Elise’s massive frame, and they’re both blowing raspberries at the camera. “We’re gonna get there first slowpokes!”

They’re followed by a few others.

“I know connection’s shit out here but let me know you’re ok. If snake guy gives ya trouble I’ll kick his ass!”

“Or well. I’ll tell Elise to kick his ass. She’s warming up to my amazing charms ;)”

“wait. Do snakes have asses? :o Can you check?”

“uknow, scratch that. Don’t look at his hypothetical butt, that’d be weird.”

“But seriously, u good? I’m worrying over here. Everything good w/ me tho. We’re waaaaay ahead of you ;p”

The delivery time shows a pause for a few hours until the messages continue.

“Dude, this is getting scary. Elise says we’ve run into boarbeast territory, somehow. What a fucking coincidink. I hear them howling.”

“hey be careful out there, ya hear? I don’t know where u are but if you’re anywhere near us keep it on the downlow. We ran into some of the others, they’ve had issues too.”

“DUDE ANSWER. We ran into finance, she said she lost her hum partner somewhere in a scuffle?? WHERE ARE YOU.”

“HELLO?? Don’t you fucking dare be dead, I’ll kick you ass!”

“Why aren’t you picking up?? Elise just fought off on of the things, and I ran I lost her she’s fucking gone I’m getting super freaked out ANSWER!!”

The last call was from yesterday.

You immediately discard your sleeping bag, pull on your clothes and boots and step outside.

“Tiny? What are you doing?” Amren asks dully, poking his head out of his tent.

You ignore him and dial Irwin.

The phone rings for a bit.

“Pick up, pick up…” you mutter.

Amren fully exists his tent, sluggish and shuddering against the cold. He looks at you worryingly with his arms crossed.

“Pick up..!” you hiss.

It goes to voicemail.

You snarl at the tone, and pull out your compass.

“We have to get to them,” you inform him. “They were just attacked.”

Amren slithers a bit closer, regaining full awareness at your unease. “Slow down, Tiny. Who were attacked?"

“Irwin and Elise!” you look around, trying to get your bearings. “They got jumped by the boarbeasts, Irwin’s out there alone – can’t believe I just sat and drank coffee while all this was going on!”

You start out northwest, when you suddenly feel Amren’s cold hand locking around your wrist.

“Tiny, hold on-”

“We can’t just sit here,” you pull at his arm.

“We can’t just storm into a fight we know nothing about!” he hisses, and tightens his grip. “You don’t know what you’re running into. If they truly got attacked by boarbeasts none of us will be better off if we storm off-”

“You can’t be serious,” you cut him off.

He glares. “I am very serious.”

You yank your arm out of his grip. “So what, you suggest we just sit here and hope for the best? If there’s any way we can help-”

“You don’t even know where they are!” Amren snarls. “Are you going to storm off in the middle of the night with nothing but a vague northern direction and hope you won’t get mauled? For once in your life, THINK, Tiny.”

You shake your head at him. You are thinking. You are thinking your friend is in trouble, and you need to help him. He begged for your aid and you weren't there. You can't leave him behind. “I can’t believe you. Do you really care that little?”

Amren’s eyes harden. “I’m trying to stop you from going and getting yourself in trouble-”

“You’re being selfish! And I’m going. If you won’t help, get out of my way,” you bark, and start off north.

You feel a very strong tug as Amren once again grips you, though this time locking his hands around both your arms.

“Could you please stop being so stubbornly reckless?” he spits, gripping tighter as you struggle against him.

“What the hell- let me go!”

“No. If your partner got attacked, he’s most likely dead by now anyway, so it doesn't even matter. There’s nothing you can do, so just settle down!”

You stare back at him. How fuckingdare he? How can he say that so callously?

You try and weasel out of his grip for a few seconds, but his hand are locked around your biceps like vices.

You wince, deciding you have to try a different approach.

You use the power he’s keeping you restrained with against him by suddenly jumping into him, shoving him backwards. You miscalculate, however, and end up slamming the back of your head against his jaw. He lets out a hiss of pain, and releases your arms to hold his face.

You stumble forward, somewhat startled by the impact and sudden pain in the back of your skull. You look back.

Amren tries his jaw, and stares at you somewhat surprised. Then his look turns venomous as he bares his teeth at you in anger.

“You know what? Fine! Go ahead. I am sick of babysitting you,” he snarks, and leans back, flicking his tongue. “If you’re so adamant on being insufferable and getting yourself killed, by all means don’t let me stop you!”

You have had it. Enough with his attitude, enough with his uncaring demeanor, enough of him.

You sneer at him, balling your fists. “And I am sick of you acting like a prick for the hell of it, and I am sick of trying to turn that around!” you meet his stare and jab a finger at him as you speak. “Do you know what? If you actually showed some compassion for once in your life, maybe people would stop being oh so insufferable around you? Making friends! What a fucking concept!” you yell, turning on your heel.

You march off in what you hope is the right direction towards Irwin, leaving Amren in your dust.

He stares wordlessly after you.

Anger still bubbles in you chest as you storm through the forest, only armed with your flashlight and a compass. You didn’t even stop to pick up your backpack, but you don’t have time to worry about that right now.

“Northwest, northwest..” you mutter, periodically glancing at the compass and the road ahead of you. You try calling Irwin again a few times, but it always goes to voicemail.

You grit your teeth.

You keep going for a good 20 minutes, but when the adrenaline start to slowly simmer down you realize the situation that you’ve put yourself in. The unknown woodlands loom quietly around you, trees swaying gently in the wind.

You have no idea where you are.

Looking around, the nighttime forest somehow seem a lot more threatening now that you’re alone and somewhat lost. You have had brighter ideas in your life.

Looking at your phone you pull up the navigator to try and check how far you are from where you’d guess Irwin could be if he headed straight north from the lodge. You try not to wince too much at how it’s almost 4am.

You do get an estimate, but come to a stop, however, when you realize something.

Amren has been dragging you off the track for about two whole days. Even if you somehow managed to pinpoint Irwin’s exact location, there’s no way you’d ever reach him to do anything in time if he really got attacked.

The horrifying situation hits you like a brick, and you suddenly feel very silly and frustrated. What the hell were you thinking? That you’d somehow fly into the middle of a dramatic battle like an unsung hero, and that that would magically solve everything?

You stop to gather yourself, leaning against a tree. How could you be this stupid? You breathe hard, considering your options.

Should you call the police?

Should you turn back?

Should you keep going and hope for the best?

Dread settles as you realize how powerless you are in this situation. Worry for your friend's safety and being rendered incapable of action is infuriating. Maybe swallowing your pride and go back to actually come up with a plan, like a certain insufferable snake suggested, is the better option.

That’s when you suddenly hear something rustle in the bushes from somewhere to your right, and you look over there, ready to churn your frustrations outwards.

“Amren, if you’ve come to gloat you can piss right off-”

You cut yourself short.

That's not Amren.

Two pair of vicious red eyes reflect the light from your flashlight, sitting atop a long snout. The maw opens in a snarl, revealing a row of sharp canine teeth alongside two tusks. A mess of black fur covers the horrendous wolf-boar mixed face.

You stare at the boarbeast, and fear settles in your core, sending a nauseating static through your body and gathering as a chill down your spine. Your entire body tenses in a freeze response, clenching the flashlight so tight you feel it might break.

The beast stares at you for a solid minute, before creeping closer, growling.

You involuntarily take a step back, when Amren’s voice rings in your head.

Use speed. Keep it at a distance.

The clarity comes short lived, as the beast suddenly charges.

You scream, and throw yourself behind the tree you were standing at, feeling a tusk barely scraping by your knee. The beast hurls itself to the side, it’s bushy tail waving through the air, and it mercilessly comes at you again, opening it’s maw to bite. You smack it with the flashlight, knocking it’s head to the side, but it rams into you, knocking you backwards on the floor. You land with a grunt on your back, banging your head against the mossy undergrowth.

You register snarling in your dizziness, and push yourself up to stare at the beast. It circles you, growling, and you scramble backwards on the forest floor, trying to get to your feet.

You don’t get the chance, as the beast roars, and springs toward you. You pull your arm up to protect your face, and yelp as it's maw locks around your lower arm and it bites.

The pain shoots through you, and you let out another scream as you start knocking your flashlight into its skull uselessly. You feel its warm pungent breath in you face and the loud snarling filling your ears as its teeth tears through your jacket and pierces through your skin, powerful jaws threatening to crush bone.

The beast suddenly releases you, however, as you spot a shadow slamming into it from the side, and a terrifying howl rakes through the night. The beast crashes down with a squeal, and you quickly scramble backwards in a panic, clutching your injured arm protectively.

You can’t see a thing, but you can hear howls, yips and grunting, and the sound of snapping jaws. You frantically feel around for your flashlight, lost somewhere in the scuffle, and wince when you suddenly hear a loud thud followed by a wet tearing noise and a ferocious snarl.

The squealing boarbeast goes quiet, save for an unpleasant gurgling wheeze.

You heart is hammering in your chest, and blood rushes through your body as you breathe heavily, staring out into the quiet dark.

You hear panting, and something shuffling around. Then you hear footsteps, creeping toward you. Your hand finally grasps the flashlight, and you hurriedly shine it on you savior.

You recognize the furry face that shields her eyes from the light, her muzzle and hands covered in blood.

“Mira..?” you whimper.

“And not a second too soon,” Mira coughs, gritting her teeth as she eyes the now dead boarbeast lying on the forest floor. Blood is slowly pooling out from a fresh deep gash on its neck. It twitches slightly.

She stretches out her furry palm out to you. You just stare at it for a few seconds, and she gently retreats it.

“Fair enough,” she says, and plops down next to you instead, wiping her hands off in the grass. “Is it okay if I put my arm around you? You seem really rattled,” she asks, hovering her arm over your shoulders without touching.

You nod wordlessly, and you feel a comforting warm weight settling around your shoulders as Mira gently leans you into her.

“Are you alright?” she asks softly.

You feel tears sting in your eyes, and you can’t stop them from falling. You’ve had more terrifying experiences in the past 24 hours to last you a lifetime, and here Mira is. The contrast of her gentle concern would be enough to send anyone over the edge. You put your non-injured hand over your mouth to ground yourself as you try to control your erratic breathing.

“It’s okay,” Mira says, squeezing you gently. “Take your time, let it all out.”

It takes a while, but Mira patiently holds you close while you gather yourself. Eventually, you’ve calmed down enough to wipe off the rest of your tears. Mira gives you another squeeze, and releases you. She scoots back to look at you better.

“Goodness, your arm-!” she gasps. “Here, hold on..”

Mira start ruffling around her backpack, and pulls out a bandage and some disinfectant. She immediately gets to work fussing over you, cleaning the wound and wrapping it tightly.

“I’m no doctor, but I think you’re in luck. It doesn't look too deep,” she says reassuringly.

You hiss in pain as she works, the disinfectant burning as it clears out the wound. You’ll take her word for it.

“H-how did you find me?” you ask.

She finishes wrapping your arm, and looks away somewhat sheepishly.

“You, uh. You forgot this,” she reaches back into her backpack, and pulls out the beanie you thought you’d lost.

“My hat?” you gingerly take it out of her paws and put it on. The warmth is comforting. “Well, thanks. Where did you find it?”

“When I was cleaning up after you left,” she replies. “I overheard Mrs. Hansen talking to someone on the phone complaining about boarbeasts, and got worried. So I, uh. Kinda. Tracked you? Using your scent on the beanie?” Mira doesn’t meet your eye. “And when it went immediately east I got kind of suspicious. Why would you go so far off the routes? And with Mr. Backpack out of all people?”

She looks around, looking somewhat on edge.

“Speaking of. Where is he? Shouldn’t he be out here with you? And.. why were you even out alone in the middle of the night? It’s dangerous for a hum to go solo out here.”

You look to the ground. “We, uh. We had a fight. We’ve been having multiple fights, actually,” you laugh forlornly. “But this one was bad. I got word Irwin was attacked, and I wanted to leave immediately to help. Amren tried to stop me. I called him a selfish prick and stormed off. And got attacked,” you snort. “God it sounds so stupid saying it out loud.”

Mira smiles softly, and gently pats your shoulder. “You wanted to help your friend. We don’t always think clearly when in distress.”

“Guess not,” you let out a shuddering sigh.

“It’s a bit weird, though?” Mira notes after a brief pause. “That Mr. Backpack would just drag you all the way off map?”

You frown. “He said it was to avoid the pack of boarbeasts up north. He apparently already knew about them. I already reprimanded him for not warning the others.”

“He hasn’t like – pulled anything, has he?” she asks somewhat nervously.

“What? No. Well. Besides his usual bad attitude, no. He actually defended me at one point.”

Mira eyes you. “This is going to sound kinda harsh but – are you sure he hasn’t thrown you for a loop?”

“What do you mean?”

“I mean – if he truly wanted to avoid boarbeasts he did a poor job. They roam north, sure, but they’re worse away from the most frequented paths, like any animal. And letting you storm off on your own just now just doesn’t sit right with me. I don’t know, I just don’t understand the motive, and I certainly don’t trust he has any other interests than his own in mind.”

There’s a pause as Mira let’s her words settle with you. You suppose it is weird he’d go to such lengths to just be an ass.

“Why would he drag you away from everyone else like that? Mrs. Hansen said you were supposed to run into the others as you went through the different routes, keeping the spirits and the friendly competition up. Why isolate you from that?” Mira continues, focusing on your face.

You frown as you think about it. Amren's an insufferable bastard at the best of times, sure, but hasn’t he at least somewhat gained your trust at this point?

But if he knows this place so well, he should have also known it’d be dangerous east. The constant leaving you at disadvantage, keeping you out of the loop of where you’re going?

But then, why would he go out of his way to defend you earlier?

So he could finish you himself, a nasty thought pops into your mind and you shudder.

Mira regards you for a second with sympathetic eyes as you think. She gently squeezes your shoulder.

“Hey, why don’t we get you out of here. I happen to have a functional GPS, and there’s a place a bit from here where we can get picked up. I think you’ll be forgiven if you don’t finish this absolutely ridiculous competition”, she grins softly, trying to lighten the mood.

You nod, tears stinging your eyes again. You don’t know what to think. Anything to get the hell out of this forest.

Mira helps you up, and gently takes your arm as you start walking.

“Thank you,” you say. “Really. Thank you so much.”

“Anytime,” Mira says warmly.

You walk with Mira through the woods for some time, her never taking her arm off you, and you’re grateful for the support and extra warmth she provides in the cold night.

“Did you eventually enter the competition on your own?” you ask to fill the silence as you walk.

“Nah, Mrs. Hansen figured it wouldn’t be fair to send me off on my own," she replies. "So I’ve been doing my own thing around the lodge, until I started looking for you."

“Sounds kinda boring.”

She grins. “It’s been very entertaining tracking you two, though. It got a bit difficult after the muddied path. It looked like a war zone. What the hell happened?”

You smile a bit at the memory. “We got a little too sick of each other.”

“Clearly,” Mira shakes her head.

After walking for a good 15 minutes, you come by a small stream, where Mira excuses herself to go wash the boarbeast blood off her face. While she’s kneeling at the stream, you lean against a tree and look at you phone. Still nothing from Irwin.

You sigh, and try calling him again. It can’t hurt to try.

Your blood freezes to ice when you suddenly hear Irwin’s obnoxious high-spirit signature ringtone, clear as day. You stare at the source of the sound.

It’s coming from Mira.

[felixwaffling]

Totally different vibe but I'm gay and thinking so much about him. This post might get nsfw, folks.

I'm smitten. Sure we have our problems, I mean, of course we do, he's dating ME- But FUCK, man. It's like how I felt with Alex except Victor is a good person who actually loves me. He's way stronger than me, which makes me SHAKE bro. He could hurt me if he wanted to, but he's so nice. He calls me things that have me on my fucking knees.

Like. Hooooly shit I can't wait til I get a chance to meet him in person bc when I say I'm gonna do whatever he wants... I MEAN WHATEVER. Like. I will be incapable of saying no. I will be pathetic.

Imagine if we meet in a bar and I get super drunk and kiss him dude that- HGJDHDBFHFHD.

I want him. I want him ON ME. I legit- like. I'm acespec, sex repulses me, the thought of being touched is so scary, but like I'd let him be all over me if he actually wanted me. I'd let him do ANYTHING.

I am so fucking attracted to this guy, and we have so much in common that some days we do nothing but play video games for literally the whole day together... We play almost every night and he puts up with my drunk nonsense, he doesn't complain <333

I wish I could tell him about the shit I'm into bc the only way this could get better is if I get proper dominated man I'm- I'm weak, I'm small, I like hiding behind people and letting them make all the decisions. I'm a dog for this man. I'm property.

FUCK I am drunk rn and if any of my friends find this I'm going to be humiliated beyond belief, they don't-

Nobody knows how much I want this man to fuck me and it weighs heavy, like, I don't even think he knows how I'd kill for him to both absolutely wreck me AND baby me.

Bc on one hand. I'm a little baby. I'm pure. I'm innocent. Treat me like a little goober and hold me and. IDK FUCK MAYBE I JUST HAVE DADDY ISSUES BC I THINK IM ASKING FOR A DILF-

... but on the other hand, I'm a bad person, I'm the worst, I'm whatever villain you need me to be just PLEASE put me in my fucking place I *WANT* you to punish me I'm like literally asking for it, I'm doing shit that gets on ur nerves bc I wanna be RAILED man I WOULD BE SO MUCH LESS ANNOYING IF YOUD JUST SLAM ME AGAINST THE WALL AND BREAK ME WHEN IM A LITTLE BITCH

HhHh.

I still can't believe I'm saying all this shit

I'm beyond wasted. Like. Intoxicated moreso than usual. Typing this so far has taken an HOUR and I got sad halfway through out of humiliation and went to write that first post. But even through all the drinking, all I can really think about is being pinned to his bed 👉👈,,,

,,, it's not just sex either bc I want kisses. Neck kisses. Like. Damn. I want him to hold me from behind. I want to cling to him. Hide my face against him. If he touched my face I would do the fucking meme thing and refuse to let go of his hand. I want to snuggle against him and just. Disappear for a while.

.... I want to cry myself to sleep in *his arms* instead of on my own. I hug my pillows and try desperately to pretend they're him. I see him when I fall asleep, when I'm alone, when I'm sad... when I'm fucking suicidal the thing that stops me is that then I'd have to wait who KNOWS how long for him to live out his own life, and that I might have to watch him fall in love with someone else (the worst thing ever)

If. If I ever lost him idk what I'd do because fuck dude. He's everything. Victor is my world. I want to meet him.

.... I also want him to control every aspect of my life and tell me what to do bc without guidance I drown. Ppl might think it'd be toxic, but I think I need that in my life. I hate making decisions. I want to sit quietly and let him think, bc I'm bad at thinking, and thinking overwhelms me. I want him to hide me behind him and be the one to handle the world so that I can just be *his.*

UGH. THIS IS THE HORNIEST, SAPPIEST FUCKING POST IVE EVER MADE EVER.

[seyoonlgc]

harmless matching making fun.

PART TWO

Time was ticking, the night was vanishing and he still had so many candies left, yikes!

Please ctrl + f your character's first name if you don't want to read the whole thing. If I mentioned you, it's because you liked my plot call or told me on discord/twitter that you would not mind participating.

Cupidyoon fully intended to ship Tee (@lgctee) with another V&A member, but decided the Jintee fangirls were way too scary to mess with. Tee got his soda candy first and Cupid took his sweet time walking around before finally dropping the matching one in Jinseo (@lgcjinseo)'s palm. The patience couple, he shall call this ship, because it was sailing at the speed of molasses. At this point, Seyoon might end up with four kids before these two even get any.

Seyoon noticed some sort of tension between Minkyu (@lgcminkyu) and Jihan (@lgcjihan). He figured any tension could be good tension and sometimes a little resentment made better sex. Regular cherry flavored candies went to this couple - just make up already!

The blueberry candy in his hand was reserved for Seunghyun's match but honestly, Seyoon was struggling. Seunghyun (@shxlgc) was his childhood friend, occasional enemy and an annoying twat. Nobody really deserved Seunghyun, take that sentence however you would like. So with a grin, Cupid approached his dear Mushushu with both blueberry candies in hand. He slipped them into Seunghyun's pocket with a wink. "I am sure you would rather take care of yourself." Hey, at least he didn't say the F word out loud.

One party boy deserved another and Seyoon simply knew Hyuk (@lgchyuk) and Haneul (@lgchxneul) would have fun together. In fact, he might want to join them. For partying, of course. Pineapple flavored candy for them, Seyoon's precious dance all night ship.

Now, what about Maylin (@lgcmaylin), dear Maylin. She hated most guys, didn't she? Seyoon handed her a peppermint candy because she spicy and looked around for her perfect match. Oh, maybe Eunwoo (@lgceunwoo)! The guy was hot and pretty quiet from what Seyoon remembered. If a man didn't talk much, he had less chance of saying the wrong thing, perfect!

Seyoon was pretty certain Max (@lgcxmax) was already dating a dude, but real life boyfriends didn't count for this Halloween game. After some contemplation, he decided to match Max with Kai (@lgckai) and came up with a whole dramatic story about two hardworking trainees, constantly stuck in evaluations together. Slowly developing feelings, stealing looks across the room and...Yes, it could be fun with their grape flavored candy.

Who was left?

Seyoon tossed Rowon (@rowonlgc)'s black cherry into the air and caught it back in his hand. Oh Rowon, this one was so very tricky.

So focused on his thoughts, he nearly ran into Soyoun (@lgcsoyoun). "Ah, I am sorry." He bowed his head like a good lil trainee but slipped the idol a light pink candy he believed to be cherry-blossom flavored. One of the more unique ones he'd gotten. The matching one he'd given to Ichika (@lgcichika) onee-sama earlier. Certain fanfics may have changed his favorite ships forever. Long live Ichiastrid.

His basket was nearly empty and the last couple to be matched with Hanie (@lgchanie) and Hyun (@lgchyun). They were both young, cute and could make an adorable puppy pair with their vanilla-flavored candy. In fact, if those two ever debut together, he might ship it.

[captain-lessship]

Roommates Pt. 1

A/n: used to be posted on the Ao3 TheSavyCorner. I wrote it with my friends and they gave up on fanfic and I have given up on Ao3 so here!

You yawned as you bobbed your head. You were dozing off already.

"Alright, sleeping beauty, wake up." Ajax snapped his fingers in front of you. You blinked awake.

"Why do we have to be up so early?" you rubbed your eyes.

"To get an Education. Duh," he said. You rolled your eyes as you shook your head, dust coming from your hair, making your friend yawn.

"We could easily learn at ten in the morning. Not eight."

"Watch your dust, Sandman. Now I want a nap... No wonder you're always sleeping." he said, voice trailing off as his eyes closed. You snickered as you pulled a marker from your pocket. You were stopped when the bell rang, you put it in your pocket and shook the boy beside you awake.

You were walking through the courtyard when Ajax saw her—his crush that you were not supposed to tell anyone about: Enid. You followed as he walked to her. 

You felt a twinge of envy at the blonde. Her smile was bright, full of life. Her hair was beautiful and always perfect. Her eyes glimmered and turned into a charming crescent when she smiled. 

You looked in the puddle at your feet, seeing your murky appearance. You knew you weren’t a very good-looking individual. Your eyes were glossed over with sleep, your lips were chapped and your hair wasn’t the best style or the best color. But you wanted to be handsome. But you weren’t. 

"Enid, You're never going to believe the dirt I heard about your new Roommate! I heard she eats..."

You were dozing off again when you got bumped into by a girl, who looked very familiar, while she walked on and Enid followed.

Ajax turned to you, "Bro... She's-"

"Scary as hell? That's an Addams for you."

"Cousins..."

"Creepiest of such."

Ajax looked at you, "How are you two related again?"

"Her grandmama is the sister of my grandpa."

"Ohh... I just thought you'd be farther across on the family tree."

"Why? Not creepy and kooky enough for you?"

"Yup" you said just above a whisper. Ajax and you looked at each other and laughed lightly, the two of you walked away. You took a glance at your pipe dream: there was no way Ajax Petropolus liked you.

You were twirling your sand around in the air, watching as the leaves got swirled into a tornado and saw it go to you our best friend, Ajax, who was painting his boat for the Poe Cup when he told you the idea, you were skeptical and it grew worse when he asked you to do his makeup. Which of course, you did.

“Dude… who chose this theme?”

“Xavier.”

Ah of course. Mr. Popular. You scoffed, “Why doesn’t he just dare himself holding the Cup and call it good?”

“C’mon dude, I got a good feeling about this year! Speaking of good feelings… if we put the other teams to sle-“

You pulled back the brush of white face paint, “No. I said I would help with your costume. I even said I would practice to make sure you like it. But I am not rowing.”

This was the fifth make up look you had tried on the Gorgon and it was the best in your opinion. He gave you the puppy dog eyes. “Please! I will never ask you for something ever again.”

You raised your eyebrow, “We both know that is bull shit.”

“Okay okay, I will pay you.”

“Bro, you’re broke. I literally had to by you snacks last night.” You said, motioning at the bag of hot Cheetos and gummy worms.

“Will you do it because you’re my friend and you love me?” He said, smiling at you.

“Ajax. It’s a no. Besides, I am sure Xavier can convince someone to paddle him to his little flag.”

Ajax huffed, “Enid said she’d convince Wednesday. Imagine how bad it’ll look if they get their grumpy one to compete and we don’t?”

You looked at him with a deadpan expression.

“Okay,” he said, closing his eyes so you could touch it up, “She said she’d try.”

“Honesty is the best policy.” You joked. 

You felt a twinge of regret. “I… I am sorry.”

“What do you mean?”

You sighed, “I can’t swim, Ajax.”

The boy was quiet for a moment, “Is that why you always skip the lake parties?”

“Yeah… I’m scared of the water.”

“I’m sorry for pushing you, dude. It ain’t that deep and you’re right! We can find someone else!”

You smiled as you held up the mirror for the boy, “Open.”   You were watching as Ajax came ashore, sopping wet. A small grin of sincerity appeared on your face when you handed him a towel. He laughed when he saw you. You smiled as he dabbed at the dripping face paint.

“Sorry about the art work dude.”

“Speaking of artwork,” Your attention turned to Xavier. He was throwing a small fit. You rolled your “Water color not your strong suit?” You asked.

He glared at you.

You smirked, “Cat got your tongue? And the trophy.”

He jerked the towel from your hand, making you laugh lightly. Ajax looked at you.

“Dude… he did his best.”

You looked away from him, “I know. I’m sorry. You were great.”

Ajax looked at you before lightly nodding and walked away. You cursed yourself

“You are easily annoyed.” You heard a monotone voice say. You turned to see Wednesday.

“Ah, well,” you sighed, “Congrats by the way.”

“Thank you. I need to ask you a few questions. “

“Uh,” you looked to the group of people leaving to go up to Ophelia Hall. “Right now or after the presentation?”

“Right after, beside the Edgar Allan Poe Statue.” She said, turning to follow the crowd. You trailed behind her.

After the winning team got changed, you and other students watched as they did a small celebration, it was a big deal to most people. You clapped as you walked to the statue to wait.   You watched as she walked to you, taking out a small note pad.

“I need to ask you about the specifics of your powers.”

“Oh, alright, what do you need to know?”

“You make people fall asleep. Right?”

“Yea. It’s a type of sand, think sandman legend. “

“Do you make them dream? Is there anything else you can do with the sand?”

“Well… I could make someone dream but not right now, well, I can share someone's dreams. I can move it around and make shapes with it. Kinda like sand telekinesis.”

“ So it can be learned. The dream giving.”

“Yea, but it takes a lot of energy.” You said.

“Can you give your sand to other people to use?”

You stopped, “Uh, well… yes but we’re not supposed to.”

“Could you give some to me?”

“Why?”

She stared through you for a moment, as if deciding to tell the truth. “You know about the monster that attacked me and murdered Rowan?”

You felt a twinge of worry internally, “Yea, I do. Are you worried it’ll come back? Is that why you need the sand?”

“Good to know that someone else believes me. Yes, that is one of the reasons I need the sand.”

You sighed, “what’s the other reason?”

She looked down, “I need a secure way to… sneak out.”

You sighed, “Well. I am really not supposed to give my sand out. And your mother put the entire family on alert. ”

“I need this. It is going to help me with my investigation of the monster.”

“Whoa, wait, you just said you’d be worried about it coming back, not going looking for it.”

“It’s part of the plan to find it but I need the sand in case.”

You stared at her, your eyes scanning her face. “Wednesday, I am only doing this because you’re Enid’s friend and my favorite cousin.” Ajax had influenced you. Being friendly with everyone. 

“Thank you,” she stopped for a moment “I enjoy our partnership with each other.” 

You smiled, “Alright, Partner in Crime. Do you have a jar? Or like-Oh.” A jar was pulled from her pocket.

You smirked, “How’d you know I’d say yes?”

“Intuition.”

In other words, You got played. Family bonds.

You put the jar in your hand, “Okay, I need you to back up and cover your eyes, mouth and nose.”

Wednesday pulled out a small pair of glasses, “I want to see how it works.”

“Well, it’s not luxurious but hey, it gets the job done.” You breathed in and held your hand up to your mouth, aimed for the jar and blew. Gold dust came from your body and some blew off, slowly falling to the floor. You were not very accurate but you got it in the jar.

“There you go.” You said as you screwed on the lid of the jar and handed it to her.

“Thank you. I know it’s a risk and I owe you a favor now, which is not a situation I enjoy being in. Is there something I can do for you?”

You thought for a moment, “Next Poe Cup, don’t compete.”

“Deal.”

[yourlocalartsonist]

ROTTMNT Moths Fly In Packs - Chapter Seven

A/N: Please kill me my soul has left my body writing this god forsaken LONG ASS CHAPTER but hey it was very worth it imo. Uh sorry for the month long wait. I think the AO3 writer curse found me and my poor beta reader since shit kept happening to both of us delaying this chapter even more. But hey! It's finally out, so I hope y'all enjoy while I go lay down bye- Credit to: @sweaterrat for being my beloved beta reader! Previous Chapter | Next Chapter | Chapter One

Disclaimer: Chapter involves obsessive behavior, obessive language, demeaning language, injuries, manipulation, degrading language, bullying, shaming over having emotions, panic attacks, spiraling thoughts, gross creepy motherfuckers, recorded without consent, slight physical harassment, implied verbal harassment, getting restrained, uncomfy thoughts, self-degrading language, light s*icidal thoughts, violence, and curse words. This one's a heavy chapter folks so if you're sensitive to that stuff, scroll past and stay safe!

Alright, Salena. You got this. Just remember: if you’re quick and quiet, he won’t notice you. ‘Tis the rules of ninja stealth mode, baby!

Finally back at school but am I gonna face my problems? Nope! I’ve decided to take Splinter’s advice on just doing things when I’m ready. Even though sometimes I feel like I’ll never be ready. Every time I even thought about talking to Jaiden or Zane, I’d find myself getting strangely mad. I know I’ll screw things up if I talk with a temper. 

But hey! That’s not my focus right now, anyway. I’ve been searching for a good opportunity to finally meet and talk to Draxum today! It turns out the world really is fucking miniature since he works at April’s old high school - aka my current one - as that scary mean lunch aid everyone fears to death. Who knew, right? I’m hoping I can make a good impression on him today! And maybe possibly get my very own weapon but that’s totally not my first priority at all… 

I already planned to skip study hall to try and sneak into the kitchen. I know that lunch is next period but Draxum gets pretty busy when he actually has to work so I'd rather not bother him during those moments. Besides, it’s May! I would’ve spent my study hall sitting there doing jackshit, anyway, so I doubt the teachers care if I’ll be missing. There’s just one hurdle to my otherwise flawless plan. The reason I’m perched up on top of the fluorescent light trying not to cry from how dirty it is up here instead of in the kitchen by now: Zane’s been tailing me all damn morning.

He and I share a study hall so not seeing me there probably prompted him to run out looking  for me. Guess I can’t blame him too much, I haven’t really talked to him or Jaiden so I know he’s just worried. But my god, the dude’s more annoying than an actual hall monitor right now. I’ve lost track of how long this little cat and mouse game’s gone on. 

I watched in agony waiting for Zane to pass by. He stopped, looked both ways, and turned the corner, successfully convinced I wasn’t right above him. Man, I knew parkour would come in useful someplace but never have I ever thought that place would be in school. 

I victoriously hopped off the pretty bright light and bolted towards the cafeteria, checking behind me to make sure Zane didn’t come back this way. I can’t wait to finally meet Drax and get my very own weapon! I hope it’s something cool! I mean, I don’t even know how it’s supposed to be picked but holy hell I am so excited and everything’s playing out so perfectly right now I genuinely can’t believe-

“Oof!” 

Of course, I accidentally ran into someone. So much for ninjocity. The poor guy fell to his knees, and rubbed his head, messing up his fluffy black hair.

“Omigosh are you okay!? I am so so so sorry!” I stepped closer to him, reaching out my hand. “Here, let me help you up.”

“Argh… yeah, thank y-“

He stopped mid-sentence, wide teal eyes staring right at me. His expression looked strange, it wasn’t happy but it wasn’t sad either. Or actually, it was a little? He’s not saying anything or moving, it seems like he’s about to simultaneously laugh and cry. 

But maybe I’m reading too deep into it, he could just be in shock or something. 

“Um… I hope I didn’t bump into you too hard. Are you gonna take my hand…?”

“O-oh, right, sorry! I uh… I spaced out.” 

“Don’t worry, totally get that!” I laughed, pulling him to his feet. “Ya know, I don’t recognize you. Are you new here?” 

“Yeah, I actually just joined today, tenth grade! My name is Ca-”

“There you are!” A hand grabbed my shoulder from behind.

“Z-Zane!?”

“I’ve been looking all over for you, Salena!” His arm wrapped around my shoulder, possessively holding me close while shooting daggers at the stranger. It doesn’t take Einstein to figure out what message he’s trying to send. “Hey there, new guy. Nice to see you again. I didn’t know you and Salena already met.”

“We just bumped into each other, that was it.” He turned towards me, his look switching back from hostile to friendly “So, it’s Salena?”

I wanted to respond but got cut off as always “Oh, getting bold now, are we? What, just because you’re new you think you’re some kind of hotshot?”

“What? No, I’m literally just talking.”

“I know, that’s what I’m saying. Don’t talk to her at all.”

“Uh, why? You’ve been rude to me the entire time in class and now you’re trying to monitor who I talk to? Honestly, what is your problem?”

“My problem is cute guys like you who think they can do whatever they want with whoever they want just because they look good! I’m warning you now if you try to play any mind games on her, you’ll be hating every fucking second of being alive.”

Fucksake, what is he doing? “Zane, come on, you’re being extra.”

“Salena, don’t.”

“But-”

“Just don’t! You’re too nice to everyone and never know what’s good for you!” As he said that, I glanced over and saw the new guy looking at me with expecting eyes. Zane turned to him shortly after. “And you, stay away from her, got it? I’ll say this once and only once: she’s not interested.”

“Dude, why are you getting so worked up? I’m trying to talk to Salena, not you. I want to befriend them. It’s their choice if they don’t want that and I’ll respect it. But you don’t get to decide that!”

“Yeah, okay, look at you trying to white knight the situation. Look, Salena might be naive but I’m not!” Ah, there it is again! If the word naive were a person, I’d be on death row by now! “I know exactly what you’re trying to do, you little freak, and it’s not gonna work, ya hear me?”

“Zane, stop!” He was starting to get way too physically close to him and way too metaphorically close to breaking my patience. “He’s new to the school, we just met! Why are you acting like this? You’re being mean for no reason!”

“No reason? You haven’t said anything to me the entire day, Jaiden texts saying you’ve avoided them too, and now I just happened to find you here giggling with the new transfer and you’re telling me there’s nothing funny going on?” 

I groaned. As much as I felt tempted to clock him in the face, I didn’t feel like dealing with the aftermath of having to somehow make it up to him. For now, gotta focus on making sure the new guy doesn’t pop a blood vessel on his very first day. Defeated, I reached out and grabbed Zane’s shoulders, keeping him facing towards me.

“Of course, there’s nothing going on! Hey, I’m gonna talk to other people but you and Jaiden are still gonna be my best friends.” My hand signaled the boy behind him to run while he could. “I’m not gonna just replace you guys for no good reason!”

“Then why were you avoiding me?”

“I wasn’t avoiding, I just… I had something important to do, alright?” At least that’s only half a lie.

“Oh really? Important with some guy who just transferred here?”

FOR THE LOVE OF- “Ugh, no, I told you I ran into him by accident! Like, literally ran into him. The important task is something else.” I peeked behind him, noticing the boy left. “And speaking of that, I gotta dash! It’s time sensitive so… yeah!”

“Huh? W-wait!”

You bet your ass I skedaddled away from him as soon as I could. I finally entered the cafeteria, resuming my mission from before. It’s quite empty, a stark difference from what I’m used to. You could probably hear a pin drop in here. I decided it got too eerie, so I took a page out of Mikey’s book and proceeded to swing the kitchen doors open in the loudest, most obnoxious way I could, getting greeted with a scream followed by a very annoyed groan. 

“Oh, it’s one of you annoying brats. I thought I had to be worried for a second.” He didn’t roll his eyes but he might as well have, honestly. 

“Sorry! I just wanted to ask-” I paused, looking past his body and catching a glimpse of something he was trying to hide. “What’s that behind your back?”

“Nothing that concerns you. And shouldn’t you be in class?”

“Eh, it’s study hall so skipping’s not a huge deal.”

He sighed “Do what you want, kid, but why insist on pestering me? Can’t you see I’m busy enough?”

“Oh! Right! My bad.” I lightly bumped into the door frame as I walked inside “Um, so like… I was just wondering, do you happen to know a Baron Draxum around here?”

The purple vines swiftly tangled around my waist, snatching me from the ground and suspending me in the air while a couple others pointed sharp at my head.

“How do you know that name!? Who sent you, tiny assassin?”

“Yo yo yo, chill, chill! I’m a friend! O-of the turtles! Ya know, your sons or something?” 

He scoffed “Likely story! Those idiots get themselves a new ‘friend’ every week. Tell me, assassin, if you’re on such friendly terms with them then why would you refer to me as Baron Draxum? They don’t call me that anymore!”

“Dude, I dunno! I wanted to somehow indicate that I knew about the whole Yōkai ordeal and I thought if I called you Barry you’d think I was just another kid, ya know?”

“And why exactly wouldn’t you just say that?”

“...Good point. You know what, I did not think this through. And actually, thinking about it now, it honestly makes way more sense you’re a Yōkai! I mean, the occasional random vines in the flooring, the weird forestry state of the kitchen, yada yada. But I guess I just thought you were some sort of extreme nature lover or something, ya get me?” 

SHING!

“WAIT, WAIT, WAIT!” I looked at my arms and gasped “Wait! I can prove it! My arm-wrap-glove-thingies!”

“What about them?”

“They’re Genius Tech, a gift from Donnie!” I took one of them off and threw it, landing on his eyes with a splat. “See? Donnie wouldn’t give me these if we weren’t friends! O-or at least close acquaintances on friendly terms! So ha!” 

He inspected the clothing, grunting when he saw the all too familiar logo “...Fine. I suppose he wouldn’t let a thief get away with all their limbs intact. But why are you even wearing these in school?” 

“…They go with my aesthetic, okay?”

“That was rhetorical, I didn’t actually care.” He finally set me down, not looking any less bit irritated, though. “Now, what do you want? I don’t have all day for your childsplay.”

“A weapon!”

“What?”

“I want a weapon!” I beamed at him, instinctively flapping my hands. “Like the ones the guys and April have! April told me they all got their first weapons from you since you’ve got a whole stash of them! So, I was wondering if I could get one, too? Please?”

“Of course you are.” He pinched the bridge of his nose, muttering to himself. “And for the record they didn’t get their weapons, they stole them! But anyway, I can’t help you even if I actually wanted to. My weapons are down in the Hidden City, I cannot simply wish them into existence.”

Darn. “Well… is there some way to portal down there maybe? Mikey and Leo can open portals so maybe you can too?...”

“As a matter of fact, I can.”

“Great! Then lets-”

“Not doing that, though.”

“What!?” At this point, I feel like he’s just dicking with me for the sake of it. “Oh come on, you’re supposed to be some sort of great mystic warrior alchemist guy! Surely you can do something to help me?”

“Listen, kid. Barry Draxum has far too much work to do to take some random student on a lab tour, especially just to get them a weapon to fit in with their friends. Go away and stop bothering me.” 

He walked past me to start prepping for lunch next period, his towering height only further emphasizing his authority. Still, I’m not backing down. Not this time. 

“I’m not trying to fit in. I know you’re busy but I’m not asking this for shits and giggles. I want a weapon to keep me safe! My life has been one chaotic run-in after another with mutants and giant cats and every time has had at least one near-death experience guaranteed! Look! I’ve even got the scars to prove it!” 

I held up my left arm, the bandage now visible with my arm wrap off. “Something bad almost happened last time and I got everyone worried. I just wanna make sure I don’t have to constantly need protection and burden them again. I wanna be useful, you know?”

He glanced at my arm and sighed. He may act like he didn’t give a rat’s ass but looking more carefully, it’s clear a part of him might’ve softened a little. 

“I’m not opening a portal and I mean that, I promised Mikey and O’Neil I wouldn’t use my mystic powers on the surface. With that being said, however…”

Draxum walked back to where I initially found him crouching when I came here, beckoning me to join him. I gasped when he opened the cupboard, revealing two giant blades hidden in them.

“Wow…”

“You’re lucky you came at the perfect time.” He took them out, gripping the seafoam green handles. “Usually, a warrior such as I would be entrusted with the safekeeping of numerous weaponry. But after gaining a criminal record, the Council decided I wouldn’t be allowed any more than I currently have.”

“Then… how’d you get this one?”

He scoffed, “Obviously, I stole it. Besides, I wouldn’t have been able to obtain them even with the Council on my side. These don’t belong to them.” He proudly presented the weapons, the silver blades shining in the light. “They’re a privately owned contraption, made by a very famous pristine Family in the Hidden City. No one outside them owns these sickles except now, of course, me.” 

“Hold up, these giant things are sickles? Aren’t those, like, usually way tinier and kinda useless compared to other ninja weapons?”

“Beggars can’t be choosers.”

“Well, this beggar can and will.” I pointed at myself, skeptical he was still trying to sell me short. “I’ve done my fair share of research on weaponry, sickles are lame! Their blades can barely do shit and they’re way too close range to keep the wielder safe.”

“Stop sassing me, child, I’ve done my own fair share of more accurate research. These are mystic sickles, they will be different from your pathetic human tools.” 

He began polishing them while continuing his rambles. “If you’re concerned about their sharpness, then you’ll be satisfied to know their blades can change by the user’s will. One minute, they’re strong enough to slice diamond and the next minute, they can’t even shatter glass. And all my sources confirmed they can turn the wielder invisible for varying periods of time, depending on their strength. It’s incredibly difficult coming across any information on them, but apparently, they were made to manipulate reality.”

“Apparently? I won’t lie, this all sounds legitimately cool and stuff but like, have you ever tested them out? Why’s all this just based on research when you have the weapon itself?”

“They don’t work from my touch.” Bruh.

“Come again?”

“These sickles are the only weapons that don’t seem to activate when I use them. So, my offer to you is if you can get these to work, I’ll allow you to own them permanently as long as you send me any new information you gain on them.”

“Oh, joy! You think that I - the ordinary human person - can get these things to work when you - the mystic magic Yōkai guy - cant?” I sighed, scratching my head before ultimately reaching out. “You know what, fine. Even if I get scammed, it’s worth a shot.” 

He plopped them into my hands as I fell forward, grunting from the weight. Jeez, I can barely even pick these up. “God, for a scientist you sure are pretty bad at educated guesses- Woah!”

I flinched and stepped back when the sickles suddenly sharted floating in the air. Draxum copied my actions, both of us staring intently at them. The pink details on the handle lit up, spiraling around the grips and spreading to the blades, shining it all in a soft aura of the same hue. A part of me felt drawn to the light, as if it were calling me. I realize how incredibly stupid that sounds but in the moment, that didn’t really matter. 

I reached out and held the sickles again, the aura spreading to me before fading away. They felt much lighter now, I can actually hold them with ease! The silver blades got dipped in deep, dark pink. If a rose could bleed, it’d be that color.

“Fascinating…” He adjusted his glasses. “Seems like my guess wasn’t so stupid after all, was it?” He smirked at me, genuinely emoting this time.

“I… I guess not. Aight, I’m sold! Although, I feel like the sickles chose me more than I chose them.” So, like a person getting claimed by a stray cat, I had no choice but to keep them.

“Wonderful, these are now yours, congratulations.” He held me by the shoulders and pushed me out the kitchen. “And remember, update me on any and every new bit of information you learn while using this. It was nice to meet you, blah blah blah, now don’t bother me during work ever again.”

He closed the door and almost instantly the school bell rang. I jumped, frantically shoving the sickles into my backpack right as people started coming in through the doors for lunch. I had no idea this much time passed. I should probably get out of here before-

“Salena?” 

I’ve been jinxing myself a lot today, haven’t I? Jaiden’s standing right in front of me now. Might as well leap off a cliff and call it quits, to be honest.

“H-Hey…” 

“Quite the busy gal today, aren’t you.” They’re speaking slowly, this isn’t a good sign.

“Oh, um, yeah, kinda. I just had to take care of something.”

“Cool, I guess.” 

We both stood there awkwardly. My chest feels so heavy. Jaiden’s barely looking at me but I swear if they did I’d downright die from their glare. What do I even do? How do I face this?

Just… run away. You’re… you’re good at that. So run away.

“…I need to go.” 

“What? Okay, that’s it. What is up with you? You didn’t come to school Monday or yesterday and you’ve avoided me all of today. Now when I finally catch up to you, you have to go?” 

“I just got into a small accident, is all. I had to stay home.” Not like you tried to reach out, anyway. 

“Why didn’t you tell me?”

“Why didn’t you ask?”

They groaned at me. I don’t usually bicker back but the way Jaiden was treating this, as if they don’t know what they did, it’s just… it’s just getting to me. I don’t want to be like this but it’s getting to me.

“Salena, snap out of it, will you? You’ve been acting so pissy, lately! I literally didn’t even do anything!”

My body chose to scoff “Yeah, not with me, that’s for sure.”

They squinted at me, only half understanding what I meant. “Are you… mad we didn’t hang out this weekend?” They facepalmed, framing me as the idiot for being upset over that. “Dude, you can’t be serious, I said something came up! It’s not like I totally ghosted you or anything!” 

It’s not like you totally ghosted me?

“...Jaiden, I don’t want to talk about this.”

“Why not?”

Shut up. 

“I don’t feel okay talking about this.”

“Oh really? Like how you never feel okay confronting anything? What, do you just expect me to drop this because her highness isn’t feeling okay?” 

My face feels boiling hot, I can’t help clenching my fists. I’m trying to breathe. Everything will be okay if I just breathe.

“A-are you crying? Ugh, seriously? It’s like all you ever know is how to run away or cry! We’re not thirteen anymore, just grow up!”

Stop.

“It was annoying when you were such an emotional crybaby back then but now it’s just getting ridiculous!”

STOP.

“Why aren’t you saying anything? Don’t tell me you’re upset that I’m right. That you’d rather selfishly push this to the side instead of just dealing with it like a normal person!”

Why are you being so mean?

“Salena, say something already! Stop with the pity party, the world doesn’t revolve around you-“

“I SAID SHUT UP!” 

They did.

I didn’t mean to say that.

I don’t know for how long, but somehow I tuned out the noisy cafeteria, my ears bugged with a faint buzz. My eyes were fixed on them, and theirs on me. In all our five years of friendship, I’ve never not once yelled at Jaiden before.

“…Who even are you?…”

Those words sting. They sting because they’re right. Who am I?

“Moni! Reeves!” Draxum’s voice snapped me out of my daze. “Stop standing in the middle of my cafeteria and causing traffic!” 

I guess that was our cue to sit down. And continue. Even though I don’t want to.

“Where do you think you’re headed, Moni?” For whatever reason he was still yelling at me from behind the food rack.

“T-to go find a seat?”

“I told you to head to the nurse! If that cut you got while helping me in the kitchen gets infected thanks to your horrid luck, I’ll be held responsible. So go there right now!”

Huh?…

“Y-yeah, sorry, I’m going.” I rushed out before Jaiden could say anything more. I’m a little shocked he was listening, even more so that he actually helped me. 

Whatever, I’m just grateful for the excuse to get away. 

I gently touched my heated forehead. 

Plus, maybe going to the nurse isn’t such a bad idea, anyway. 

***

The shiny streets reflected my steps as I took in the familiar damp scent. The gray fog left over after rain always gave the city a different vibe.

I got sent home early by the nurse. Apparently, another panic attack arose after talking with Jaiden. The nurse took pity on me when she realized and got me the rest of the day off, giving me a pass and everything. Told me to go home and take it easy. Come back tomorrow when I’m feeling better. I laughed at the memory. Oh, if only they knew going home meant the exact opposite.

So instead, I’m out here. Wandering in New York in its post-rainy weather to clear my mind. Maybe that’s why I keep having these thoughts. I don’t usually dwell on the whole shitty situation of my life. But right now, in the colorless skies and the somber silence, I can’t help but feel pathetic.

A pebble found its way into my boots. Annoying. I didn’t feel like dealing with it, though, so I just kept walking.

I walked more and more and more, trying to forget being present. Trying to forget this stupid mess I somehow got myself into. Wordlessly wandering, hoping the city would just swallow me whole so I wouldn’t be seen. I feel sick and ashamed but so enraged at the same time. How could they still continue to play dumb? After seeing me like that they pretended to know absolutely nothing. I’m not misreading anything, am I? What if I got the situation wrong? I can’t tell if I’d be happy Jaiden didn’t actually ditch me, or depressed I’d have yelled at them for nothing. They’re right but they’re wrong but they’re right. Or, at least I think they’re right? Maybe that’s wrong. Maybe I don’t know what I’m talking about. But that could mean so many things. What am I even talking about? What’s-

“Hello? Anyone there?” A pale hand waved in front of my eyes. I glanced up at its owner. “Welcome back to Earth, sweetheart.”

A tall blonde boy stood in front of me, a couple other boys whom I can only presume were his friends looked down at me with him. 

“H-h-hi?...” My brain, still adjusting back to reality, only spoke in stammers “C-can I help you?”

One of his friends chuckled “We were wondering the same thing. You were just walking blindly into a dead end!”

For the first time since god knows when, I scanned my surroundings realizing I have no clue where the fuck I am. Somehow, I wandered into an alley, not too deep but still pretty disorienting. There’s a wall behind them, I guess that was the dead end they’re talking about. Two of them snickered while looking at a phone.

“You seriously recorded her?”

“Course I did. I knew girls were ditzy but this? She ran into a building, like, three times! And apologized to it!” Okay, I admit, not my best moment but still, feels a little weird for them to record it. I wonder how long they were filming before deciding to actually check in on me.

“Guys, stop. You’ll make her run away.” The blonde boy spoke again. “Don’t worry kitten, we’re not here to hurt you. You just looked lost. If you want some help finding your way, we’d be glad to assist!” 

…I know he’s not saying anything inherently wrong, but the way he speaks makes my skin crawl. There’s something about his tone. It’s sweeter than it should be. That specific type of sweetness no human being shows without having ulterior motives. 

His gaze grew more intense. “Do I… know you?” I don’t like how close his face is to mine.

A part of me got suspicious, too. We might indeed know each other. Or at least, I might know him. Blonde hair, green eyes, creepy as shit. But it’d be ridiculous if he’s actually who I think he is. I mean, not every blonde white guy’s gonna be related to-

“I do know you! You’re that cutie my brother keeps talking about!”

Yep, it’s him. Because my luck couldn’t get any worse, I ran into Cole Evans, Zane’s freakshow older brother. 

No wonder my fight or flight feels triggered.

Play it cool. “I think you have me mistaken for someone else. And thank you, but I’m not lost.”

Right as I turned around to leave, my shoulders pricked up. He put his grimy hands on them, firmly grasping onto them as if any of this is fucking okay. “Oh, don’t be like that! What’d he say your name was… Salena, right? You think I’m as boring as Zane or something?” He spoke too close to my ear. My legs are trembling, aching to run. I hate this, I hate this, I hate this. “Why’re you being such a killjoy, hm? You know I’m not that much older than you, right?”

I need to go.

I spun around and elbowed his side as hard as I could, forcing him to stumble back. I desperately wanted to sprint but his friends blocked my path, grabbing my wrists when I tried reaching for the blades hidden in my backpack. They were laughing and poking fun at Cole and he himself didn’t seem all too phased either, straightening up as the pain died down.

“Let me go!”

“Seems like she’s more tiger than kitten aye, Cole?”

“Good thing I like the feisty ones.”

I thrashed around kicking and stomping, trying to hit anything I could or at least break free but nothing was working. They’re dodging everything and the grip on my wrists only gets tighter. All the while they’re mocking me like I’m a dog or something. Is this just a sick joke to all of them? 

“Aww, look at her! Is that really the best you can do to fight back?”

I need to keep trying, I need to find a way out. But they have me trapped. I can barely move around. I can’t dodge, I can’t run. I don’t know how to fight, I’m useless if I can’t run. What do I do? What do I do?

BAM!

I didn’t realize how unstable my balance was. Not until I found myself fallen on the ground finally able to freely move my wrists. The guy restraining me earlier was now groaning on the ground too, holding the freshly bruised side of his face in agony. 

“You wanna fight? Then pick on someone my size!”

“Raph?...” I watched from the ground, mouth hanging open.

Without hesitation, Raph charged at them. They were cocky at first but the atmosphere quickly shifted after seeing how powerful the “person” in the gray hoodie was. I don’t even blame them, I’ve never seen him punch anyone so hard before. He’d slam them into everything: the walls, the ground, I might’ve even heard bones crack. He’s taking all of them on.

Meanwhile, I’m here uselessly watching. 

I should help. I want to help. I know he’s strong but there’s a good number of them and they’re not exactly weaponless. But what do I do? What could I do? I have my sickles but what if I make things worse? What if things get too messy, what if things go too far? If the police get involved-

Wait, an opening! 

They’re so distracted dealing with Raph, no one’s blocking the way out! 

Run! JUST RUN!

“Come on!” I grabbed Raph’s hand the first opportunity I could and fled from the scene, him confused but not stopping us. 

We ran for what felt like forever. Just chose a direction and bolted, not much logic behind it. If anything, it felt like pure instinct. Traffic lights and stop signs didn’t seem to matter to me and frankly, I’m surprised we didn’t get run over. We only stopped when my lungs gave out and forced me to gasp for air. 

Raph seemed fine, a little concerned, but fine. “You okay? Was passing by and heard ya scream. When I ran in, I found ‘em surrounding you.” 

“Y-yeah, I’m just… I just, I-I don’t know. Sorry, can I just have a minute?” I continued heaving in the air, can’t tell if it was from running so much or another god forsaken panic attack.

Regardless, Raph stayed crouching by me as I held my throbbing head, trying to not cry. He's quiet but attentive, noticeably making an effort to avoid physical contact for now. Strangely enough, his presence alone is making me feel better. 

I steadied my breathing “Th-thanks for jumping in, Raph. Um… sorry I couldn’t, ya know, handle it myself.”

“Nah, it’s cool. Not your fault those creeps were messing with you.” 

“Still…” I wish I did more. 

And just like that, my breathing progress backtracked “Sorry I… A-a lot happened today. Too much too soon and I have no clue how to just… Gosh, I don’t even know, I-I guess get it out?” 

“Uhh, well uh…” His eyes lit up “Ooh! Actually, I’ve got a good way to deal with that kinda stuff, if you don’t mind comin’ over to the lair for a bit!”

“Oh, um, really? You wouldn’t mind?”

“Course not! Plus, Raph could use the company, anyway.”

Well, I’d definitely be safer in the lair than out here. 

I gave a weak smile “Alrighty then. I’m down!”

He reached for my hand, only taking it when he was sure it was okay. We walked along the city streets for a while. His large hand practically engulfed mine, I felt like a little kid next to their big brother. Is it weird to say I feel a little safer that way? 

We reached the lair, entering through a manhole and strolling till we reached an abandoned subway track. The familiar scent shot back to my brain. It’s strong but not overwhelming. 

“Here we are! Home sweet home!”

It’s surprisingly empty today. “Where’s everyone else?” 

“Probably doing their own thing. Hopefully safe. Raph, uh, doesn’t like thinkin’ about it too much.”

“Then Salena shall not question! So um… what exactly are we gonna do?-” 

“Catch!”

I stumbled back in shock, peering down as whatever he threw now landed in my arms. They’re… boxing gloves?

“The fuck?”

“We’re gonna deal with your thoughts the best way I know: by punching ‘em in the face!”

I blinked as I realized he’s being completely and entirely serious. I hesitated at first, but then I really gave it a good thought. I’ve read before that working out can boost your mood. A little harmless violence is a strangely good way to let out anger, especially. Plus, if I make a habit of this, I might be able to boost my strength along with it! Then I wouldn’t have to solely depend on running all the time! 

“Worth a shot!” I finally shrugged in acceptance and put on the boxing gloves, staring at the bag in front of me. “Do I just go ahead and punch it?”

“Yep, basically! But when you do, try thinking about whatever’s bugging ya and pretend it’s the bag. It’ll help you smash harder and make ya feel better!”

“Okie dokers, here I go.” 

Smack!

I gave it a light punch to test it out, making sure to catch the bag as it swung back so it didn’t punch me instead. It hurts a little since I’m not used to the impact on my fist but it’s nothing that makes me scream and writhe in pain.

“Good job for your first hit, Salena! Now try and put some more force into it!”

I repeated my actions but with a stronger punch like he instructed. I kept doing it until I got a decent enough rhythm I could keep up with. So now it’s time for the second and arguably harder part: letting my thoughts out. I don’t really wanna think about the… situation in the street. So I guess what’s left is thinking about Jaiden instead. Ugh.

Smack!

Where do I even begin with this? I mean, I can’t even properly figure out how I’m feeling, let alone word it. All I know is that there’s a shit ton of guilt associated with it. I never meant to yell at Jaiden, it just sorta happened. 

Smack!

But it’s not like it came out of nowhere, either! They’re the one who ditched me! Jaiden and I planned ahead of time to meet up and hang out, I made it explicitly clear I missed them and wanted to be with them. They said they were busy and didn’t even give me a reason for it! And then they hang out with Zane the same day? They basically chose him over me!

Smack!

But I shouldn’t have yelled either. I made things so much worse now, it’ll be too awkward to ever bring it up. They’ll just tell me off for getting mad and completely ignore everything else. God this is so frustrating! 

SMACK!

Why did I have to be so stupid? Why did they have to be so mean? The things they said and the things I did! It’s all spinning around in a giant whirlpool of bad and dangerous thoughts and I hate it! I can’t stop thinking about it and I hate it! Have I been a bad friend? Is Zane that much better than me? Am I just not interesting? What did I do for them to just ditch me! 

SMACK!

We’re best friends, why are we acting like this!? I let my temper get the best of me! I yelled at them, I fucking yelled at them! I’m mad and upset but fuck I yelled at them! I’ve never yelled at Jaiden before. We’re best friends. How could I do that!? 

SMACK!!

I’m awful! I’m terrible! I feel like an asshole! I am an asshole! I should know better! I do know better! How could I fuck up so badly!? How could I do this!? How!? How!? HOW!? I DESERVE TO FUCKING-

“Salena!” 

SMACK!!!

Raph’s arm went in between me and the bag, taking the hit in my place. I know he’s strong but judging from how loud the crash was, I doubt it didn’t at least sting.

“That was close. Everything okay? Why’d you stop punching? If the bag hit you it could’ve done some serious damage!”

“I didn’t realize I did…” I ran my hand through my hair, sighing heavily. “Ugh, fuck! Sorry, Raph. I don’t think I’m in the right headspace to do this. It’s just making everything feel more clouded than before.”

He stared at the bag for a moment. “Alright, well…” Then he let it rest, and faced me with his fists up. “We’ll spar instead.”

I tilted my head to the side, communicating my confusion.

“The whole point of this thing is to let your thoughts out, maybe if you’re just thinkin’ about it, it’s still keeping it in. If you’re cool with it, we could try talking instead of only venting while we fight and it might clear things up!” He chuckled lightly. “And don’t worry, Raph goes easy on first-timers.”

Honestly, he might actually have a point with that. “I’m open to trying!”

We’re starting off with some light jabs at each other. I felt a little out of place fighting Raph, partly cause I don’t like hitting him and partly cause I’m terrified to let him hit me. I’ve been dodging and blocking decently enough, though. HIs punches feel way lighter than normal so he wasn’t kidding about going easier.

“So, tell me. What’s bothern’ ya so much today?”

“It’s kinda my friend. I think I did something since they hadn’t talked to me much for days. And then one day when we were supposed to finally hang out, they told me something came up.” I punched a little harder, getting blocked by his forearm. “And then I found out that ‘something’ was them hanging out with our other friend who posted it on Instagram! They totally ditched me!”

He jabbed at my right, barely missing when I dodged. “Did you try talking to them? Could be a misunderstanding.”

“That’s the thing, every time I wanted to I just kept getting so mad thinking about it. And then when it actually happened, I wasn’t prepared and I screamed. They were being kinda mean but still, I never yelled at Jaiden before.”

The pace picked up some more. Raph’s hits were getting quicker and harder to dodge, I’ve had to shield myself more often. He did leave some opportunities, though. I’m gonna assume it’s on purpose to let me have a few hits but either way, it’s training so I’m gonna take full advantage of that.

“How long have you two been friends?”

“Five years, we’ve known each other since middle school. That’s why it’s killing me inside. You should’ve seen their face Raph, they looked so… shocked! Shocked that I had it in me, that I’m a shitty enough person to yell at my friend!”

“I mean, I get it but, you’re still human. No normal person’s gonna go through life never yelling at their friends.” He swung at me. “And if you’ve been friends so long, why don’t y’all just talk it out? Dontcha think apologizing would help?”

I ducked, narrowly missing it. “I mean, yeah it would, but that’s not gonna stop it from being an issue. Sometimes I’ve had to fight myself really hard to stay calm around Jaiden but I always managed to do it. Now that I blew up, though, it’ll just keep happening.”

“What do ya mean?”

“Anger issues.” I attempted a jab. “I’ve had anger issues growing up.”

“Ah. Yeah, Raph knows a thing or two about that.”

“It sucks because like, I try not to let it show. And I think I’ve done a good job. But everything’s been so overwhelming lately that I’ve been snapping left and right! I keep getting mad and forgetting to control my temper and doing stupid things as a result! It’s so annoying!” 

The anger’s helping my punches get faster. I’m barely even focusing on it but I can tell I wasn’t moving this quick earlier. Somehow, I actually managed to land a hit on his plastron, though he didn’t even flinch. Still, it’s definitely helping me build up some power. 

Maybe I shouldn’t have celebrated too quickly, though. He countered with a jab at my shoulder, forcing me to pause and regain my stance. He let me take my time, bouncing with his fists up like before and waiting for me to resume the fight. I did so shortly after catching my breath.

“Ya know, I’ve dealt with anger issues growing up, too. It’s why I got into working out so much, it’s a good outlet.” He started blocking more, letting me get a few more hits in to help me practice.

“Yeah, but your brothers love you a lot, you couldn’t have hurt them too bad. If you did, wouldn’t they just hate you?”

He laughed. “You’d be surprised! I was a real problem-child growing up, even worse than Donnie. I mean, I still loved my bros back then and acted the way I do now but… I still had a huge temper and wasn’t as good keeping it in check. Actually speaking of Dee, I did hurt him pretty badly once. Physically.”

My arms were getting tired. “What’d you do? If you’re okay sharing.”

“Well, uh, turns out anger issues and pre-teen hormones don’t mix well. It’s a little fuzzy but I know it was over something dumb. I was having a bad day so I started punching my room’s walls. It made a lotta noise and Donnie came in telling me I was bein’ too loud and it hurt his ears. I shoulda just stopped like he asked me to but I didn’t and started yelling at him and taking my anger out on him. Don didn’t back down, either, so we ended up arguing. I don’t even know how things got so heated but it got physical and I accidentally hit his shell.”

“What!?” I stopped for a moment, trying to take it in. I know Donnie’s a softshell and judging from how hard Raph’s been hitting even now when he’s being light, I could put two and two together. “Sorry that happened, Raphie. For both of you.”

“It’s fine, he wasn’t too badly hurt thankfully.” He threw a punch to signal me to keep going. “But he built his battleshell a few days later. I don’t think it was out of anger towards me, I don’t even think Dee remembers what happened other than us getting into a fight. But it still stung when I figured out why he made it.”

“And why was that?”

“...I think he built it so I wouldn’t have to worry about hurting him again. He knew I felt guilty and I wouldn’t stop apologizin’ to him for days. I think the battleshell was his way to keep himself safe but for my sake more than his.”

Raph began using a more offensive style, letting me play defense and rest my body a little. Perfect timing since I don’t think I would’ve been able to focus on giving strong hits. I’m just trying to process what happened. I knew Raph could get mad easily and shouts a bit. But I’ve never seen him really act violent towards his family, quite the opposite actually. It never even crossed my head that maybe he had to learn this the hard way.

“We’re both past it now and I’ve def gotten better with the whole temper thing. Plus that battleshell’s like, his favorite thing he ever made now. So all’s well that ends well, I guess!”

I slid back, shielding another hit. “Does it… still hurt you to think about it?”

He paused and chuckled. “You kiddin’? Hurts like hell.” Then went right back to fighting.

“So… how’d you do it? You seem so different compared to how you described yourself as a kid. Just… seems like a lot of change.”

“It was! I found better ways to deal with things. I worked out, listened to older songs, that kinda stuff. Still not the best I could be but it’s a work in progress!”

“I already do those things, though. I mean, not working out but like, I’ve got ways to cope with my anger. It just still happened.”

“Then there’s only one thing I can tell ya. It’s the hardest thing but also the most important.”

I freaked out when he swiped his leg at mine, knocking me off balance. I raised my head to look at him crouched by me again.

“Never give up on yourself. If you do that, it’s over.” He picked me up by my shoulders, me weighing absolutely nothing to him, and set me back on my feet. “But ‘till you do that, there’ll always be hope.” 

He smiled, the snaggletooth gleaming. “Think we’ve done enough today. You look tired.”

“Yeah, I guess I am.” Truth be told, I didn’t entirely realize how worn out my body was ‘till he pointed it out. “Thanks for, well, helping me out with this stuff. You’re… a good friend, Raph.”

“Anytime.” He pointed at his shell. “Want a ride home?”

I grinned and nodded, my nerves washing away from me. I know from experience this relief is only temporary, but maybe it’s okay to enjoy it anyway.

We had a nice and pleasant walk back to my place, me on his shell as we talked about more lighter topics. He shared a lot about his music taste especially, R&B is his favorite and helps him chill out often. I’ve never given it a try myself but I’m always happy to have an excuse to. I got dropped off at my building’s entrance, strolling in as I thought about the last thing I asked him before bidding him goodbye.

“Raph… do you think I’m a bad person?”

“Not even close. Like I said before, you’re just human.”

I hate to admit it, but there’s a lump in my throat from thinking about it. Weird thing is, I don’t mind it. The elevator’s quiet hum only made this peace more apparent. 

Ding!

And there goes my phone ruining that peace once again. I saw the notification, Zane texted. I guess his brother told him about our little “introduction”, if you can even call it that. 

Ding!

He also told him about Raph. And he’s mad at me now, asking who the guy in the gray hoodie was. He’s more focused on Raph than on his brother’s bullshit. Lovely.

…You know what, this can wait for another day. One thing at a time, Salena. One thing at a time.

Next Chapter

[em-writes-stuff-sometimes]

Ma'am.... Are u Daemon or smh, cause the way you write him is like... So in character I can legit hear him in my head whenever I re-read your entire series. yes, re-read, that is correct, multiple times a day, and I do picture myself as baby even if I am an ugly little binch-bonk. Like yeah, kepus, please don't abuse my lil whoo-ah but also like, please more. I would also like to point out that you write bby super clever cause thing about Daemon and Rhaenyra as a couple is that these bitches just can't calm each other down and their personalities clash like hell. Whereas baby seems super soft (and is, gods bless her, I identify big time, I am a pathetic meow-meow) but like she's actually super skilled in just handling Daemon and making him do whatever the frick she wants.

Cause like, honestly now, what the female characters in the show don't understand about him is that he's a male wife. Like legit just treat him softly and make him feel like a mighty Dragon or smh, and he will do whatever the frick-frack you want. He'll cut his own stones off and wear them as a pair of earrings for his bby, and a binch stans.

Jesus (no blasphemy intended, I respect your various faiths, all), this entire ask is hilarious. And so, so kind. Thank you so much!

First of all, NO you are not an ugly little binch-bonk (and I'll be taking that one to use in my own everyday life, thank you); beauty is so so subjective and changes constantly, and we are our own worst critics. You is beautiful, nonnie. Please believe me when I say that. Second of all - 'please don't abuse my lil whoo-ah' sent me rolling, oh my god! I definitely think that the appeal AND the downfall of Daemyra is how damn similar they are to each other; their fights would be fucking legendary, I'm sure. Holy shit. I love the trope of sunshine baby and grumpy meow-meow, so had to, had to do that here. Plus, I wanted a story where a teenage girl who lives in a patriarchal puritanical society does not, in fact, grow up protesting the status quo but rather is downtrodden by it. Like so many of us are nowadays, I'm sure. We're products of the system we're raised in, and Babey is - at least initially - a product of her culture. Until Uncle Daddy gets his claws on her (and his dick in her, teehee).

Of course, gorgeous gentle girls GOTTA know how to tame the big scaries. So Babey knowing just how to manipulate Dae-Dae is a hilarious dynamic to play around with - she doesn't challenge him head-on, but just slowly starts to weaponise his perception of her (unwittingly at first) to get him to do the things she wants. Poor tiny, sweet, innocent baby niece-wifey; Kepa gotta be the strong protector man, doesn't he? WINK!

He's supportive and loving in his own grotty, awful way. That's even canon for Daemon! How transgressive of him to support his niece's claim to the throne over his nephew's! How strange for him to be almost universally panned as a violent, amoral, creepy kinda dude, and yet even his worst critics can't deny his kids were pretty damn fond of him! Well, every guy has his flaws, I guess. It's kinda sweet that domesticity seems to suit Daemon pretty well - until the shit hits the fan with the Dance, that is. 'Cut his own balls off and wear 'em as earrings' is... apt. But he wouldn't do that - gotta have balls to make pretty baaaaaaaabies in his baaaaaaaby nieceyyyyyyy, wink-wink!

Thank you for this hilarious ask, nonnie!

[peggy-sue-reads-a-book]

Day 2

This is a question I have had for  while. What are your feeling on all the olympians? Like all of them. Thanks if you answer lol(can’t believe I even remembered 2 days)

Oh wow, ok, I’m excited about this question and will do my best. Been thinking about it all day. I’m going with feel as the operative word. I am not a Hellenic polytheist (I am a Christian; anyone can ask me about this☺️) but the gods are real and dear to me as part of humanity, so yes, I have feelings. In a way, your ask is as much about me as it is about the gods. So you’ll get my completely personal take. I will not give you subversive fan theories or analyses on why they are problematic. I’m also a synesthete, so bare with me; my sensory process is what it is.

Zeus — I feel like we’d date. A friend of mine told me that he reads my fanfiction but his powers enable him to watch it like a telenovela. He’s a warm, gregarious energy to me. I live for silly Zeus memes but I think what we all miss is how likeable he is. Large and scary on the outside, but full of wonder at his core. He’s the visionary behind Olympus after all. He’s a swan, a glittering shower, he wants thrones for all his kids, crowns for his brothers and sisters. My favorite myths include just how much he delights in his kids. Like when Artemis and Apollo are born and he’s just like here, have the sun, have the forests. Or when he rescues little Dionysus by putting him in his own body until he’s done growing. I think his presence would feel so alive you wouldn’t really care who he was or what nonsense he’d been up to.

Poseidon - ya know, he’s a mysterious dude. He’s moody, a little weird. Thinking of him makes me imagine my fears of the bottom of the ocean. Of the kraken, of trenches, places with no light and freaky pressure changes. Almost like he’s specifically the lord of the deep. Of any god, I’m most afraid of him. (Feel free to psychoanalyze in the comments) Also I imagine him as a hunky merman. I picture him in deep greens. I think of that folk song full fathom five. Choleric. Hard to please. A sense of weariness.

Hera — I think we oversimplify her rage. I see her in bright golds. Fresh smells, peaches, a crisp essence. She’s glamorous, a leader. But has battled her insecurities hard. There’s a frustration and anxiety close to her surface. And I’m not so sure her issues are really with Zeus. I feel like there’s a deep wound there from the titan war and perhaps Zeus has great compassion for it. Rosalie Hale and Amy March are both strong Heras to me. Daenerys Targaryen is a Hera. Hera is the feminine form of hero, by the way. Somehow it’s been lost as a noun, which is a shame.

Demeter — I picture Demeter as my sister, who, by the way, is lovely. It just fits too well. She’s a gentle, sensual woman. She enjoys food, dancing, comforts. Of any gods, I would want her on my side. A better ending to the Judgement of Paris is that Demeter divided the apple evenly and served it with humus and peanut butter. The koine suffix meter means mother. Demeter is a giver, she’s the full moon, the mom friend, the feeling when your s/o makes your lunch or kisses your head at night.

Hestia — heckin sweet. She and Zeus are the closest of the siblings. You go domestic ace-spec girl. Like I bet she’s just so pretty and kind. See previous headcanon posts.

Ares — everyone who’s been here knows how I feel about Ares. I can’t resist finding one single nugget of lovability and letting it take over. He’s Zeus and Hera’s most difficult traits all in one guy. He’s intense and moody like Zeus but with the anxiety and insecurity of Hera. He’s angsty, kinda tortured. I think he’s often taken for granted as the “strong one.” He holds a lot inside in order to be there for others. I think he supported Hera beyond what he was ready for as a little boy.

Hephaestus — Blacksmiths are cut. Have you met a blacksmith before? Lemme tell you, I’m a huge horse person and I have. They come in with their their truck and their strong arms and they pick up those little horsie feet and it’s everything. And that sad backstory of being raised in a cave? Please. You want Hephaestus.

Athena — She intimidates me. She’s not one I identify with much and sometimes have a hard time with. I have felt in the shadow of “Athena” type women. To me she’s that cousin who’s in med school or law school or literally just passing third grade math. A golden child. Homer calls her “a stately dame … graced with all the noble gifts of womanhood” in song 16 of the Odyssey. Which sounds great and maybe it is. But the irony of perfection is it’s never really what what we find most beautiful is it? We never romanticize precision.

Apollo — oh, buddy. I love you. Somehow the god of order and reason and also the biggest himbo of all. Still in therapy from both his lovers turning into plants. He’s so pretty and so brilliant but he’s the god of song. Apollo is #sadgirl through and through. Somehow a melancholic, a genius, and an innocent all in one. Spencer Reid vibes, definitely. He makes me nostalgic for something I can’t quite reach.

Ya know what, someone ask me about just Apollo sometime. I wrote loads of fiction about him in 8th grade and I had a dog named Apollo. I really miss that dog.

Artemis — There’s a kind of prickly charisma to Artemis. And culturally, she’s beloved. Katniss is Artemis. So is Scout Finch. I love that the Greeks gave us an all girl mashup of Peter Pan x Where the Wild Things Are x Moonrise Kingdom. Yet, she gives me a little sense of melancholy too. Sexuality aside, she made a fascinating choice when she vowed eternal girlhood, celibacy, and to never become a mother. She chose autonomy over intimacy. She chose innocence over heartbreak. I wonder if she ever sorrows for the road not taken. Even an immortal life is only one life. And yet, I want her to be free. I would lose my shit if she ever for one second knew grief or regret or even jealousy. It would crush me for romance to displace her friendships. I hope she’s just perfectly 100% happy. She means a lot to me.

Hermes— what a mysterious dude. Honestly, I’m not sure what even to do with him. He’s … detached. Like just kind of a stinky guy in stinky rafting sandals. Paradoxically he looks the most human, would seem to be v cool towards humans, and yet is just as magical and strange as can be. I’m pretty sure I literally saw him in Asheville. @heljos , he’s special to you, speak of Hermes sometime.

Aphrodite— above all, Aphrodite is hopeful. My favorite epithets for her are “laughter-loving” and “foam-walker.” Even the specific wording of “mother of desire” as opposed to “lust” or “love.” There’s all kinds of things you can desire. Fun, humor, joy, health, self-acceptance, friendship. Aphrodite and Dionysus are the Pippin and Merry of Olympus. But as a Artemis’ opposite, I think there’s a part of her that grieves her freedom. To be the goddess of beauty and love means being defined by perception and relationships. That’s why I give her such a distinct personality when I write about her. I bet more than anything she wants identity. *follow or ask me for more on this.

Things that have the same energy: Dionysus and Tom Haverford.