#Latest Comments of Luminous

[versadies]

it’s not what it looks like !! (w/ gn!reader)

SALUTATIONS. it’s not what it looks like !!

ADDRESSED. alhaitham (w/ performer!reader)

CONTENT. fluff/no-angst, spoilers to sumeru archon quest act 1 and act 5, aether is traveler in this one (sorry traveler!lumine lovers 😭🙏🙏), mentions of murder (figuratively), ooc alhaitham

STAMP. you and alhaitham seems to have some beef with one another due to akademiya’s determination in taking down anything related to performing arts — but as far as traveler knows, there’s something more.

POST-SCRIPT. here’s my first ever fic of alhaitham <333 hes so cool in the latest archon quest, i hope i got him right in this fic :DDD !!

LINKS. main masterlist | taglist

“Me? Liking them? Oh please. If I ever take one look at them, I’ll barely hold back all the food I’ve eaten from rising up to my mouth.” Alhaitham says with a scoff.

He claims such a dramatic comment with complete disgust in his tone, yet Aether would sometimes catch the scribe never leaving his sight on you whenever you’re in the same room as him, minding your own business as you go on with your day. 

Had it not been for that look Alhaitham has on his face every time he sees you, the traveler would be convinced that he hated you. 

It’s not like there was even a moment when the scribe was acting nice towards you. Given that you’re a performer in the Grand Bazaar, it’s not surprising for someone like Alhaitham to not like you, especially since the Akademiya looks down on performing arts. If anything, Aether always sees you two arguing about something (almost like an old married couple would, Paimon comments), but it was never like the ones with General Mahamatra nor his roommate for some reason the honorary knight can’t explain. 

With you, Alhaitham always has this look on his face that makes it look like he’s enjoying your conversations. He usually visits the Grand Bazaar to remind you about whatever the Akademiya said to him about performing arts being forbidden, so it’s no surprise that you always look like you’re on the verge to commit murder from whatever he said to you. Aether’s sort of surprised Alhaitham isn’t dead yet. 

“Alhaitham? Ugh, I can’t stand seeing him. He should know that we’ve done nothing wrong here and leave us alone.” You said, rolling your eyes at the thought of the scribe. “I don’t understand how you’re friends with a guy like him, he’s so… blegh!” 

You claim such a statement, yet Aether noticed how the first thing you do after your performances is to ask if Alhaitham is still around watching. Of course, you claim it’s because you hope “he was so blown away by your performance he flew away from the Grand Bazaar and never come back”, but Aether feels like it’s more than just that. Not that the honorary knight would say that aloud, not when he doesn’t want to risk getting on your bad side. 

Now that he thinks about it… It’s strange how Alhaitham is sometimes around whenever you perform… 

Nah, he must be overthinking things. 

Or so he thought. 

He was just taking a stroll around Sumeru City at night after the celebration feast, not being able to sleep with a very full stomach. It was only when he turned to a secluded area when he spotted two silhouettes, only to realize that they belonged to two familiar people when he came closer to see who they were. 

Is that you and Alhaitham? What are you two doing there? 

He assumes the two of you were arguing once again, but he didn’t try to come up to the both of you in fear of bothering you two and getting involved. However, as he was about to turn around and walk away, something made him stop. 

He sees how Alhaitham lean towards you, almost as if he’s leaning for a kiss–

Wait. 

What?

Surely, his sleepy mind is playing games with him. You and Alhaitham? Kissing?

As much as Aether doesn’t want to admit it, you and Alhaitham being in love isn’t too surprising given that he had his speculations, but it’s still a shock to see you two being so.. affectionate. 

It was only when you pulled away from your kiss when you realized you had company, causing you to gasp. 

“...T-Traveler!” You said in a surprised tone, pushing off Alhaitham away with a nervous laughter. “What.. What brings you here?!” 

Aether panics when he’s caught by you and Alhaitham, who’s glaring at the traveler for ruining his moment with you. 

“...I didn’t see anything!” Aether says before running away, leaving you and your lover alone in confusion and taken back. 

The two of you then look at each other before you begin to laugh at what just occurred. 

“I’m sure the traveler wouldn’t say a word about this. It’s about time someone eventually catches you and I together.” Alhaitham says, his mouth twitching upwards at the sounds of your laughter blessing his ears.

You nod in agreement with a wide smile, imagining how Aether would act with you two around from now on after finding out. “Of course, of course. But then again.. Since Azar and the other sages are gone, wouldn’t that mean we’re safe enough to be seen together in public now?” 

His hand slowly reaches towards yours and holds it, missing your touch already. “Is that what you want? I thought you were enjoying our acting performances.”

You grinned. “It is amusing to see people’s reactions to us “arguing” with each other, but I prefer being seen with you as a couple. How long has it been since we’ve spent our dates somewhere in public rather than the woods?” You respond.

Alhaitham hums. “If it’s what you want, then I see no reason not to object. I was getting tired of seeing your admirers’ letters and gifts on your doorstep. I can’t wait to see their reactions when they find out you’re dating the Akademiya’s Scribe.” 

“Who knew you’d get jealous over such things, you know you own my heart.” You tease, letting go of his hold on your hand before you begin to wrap your arms around your lover. 

He wraps his arms around you in return, leaning his forehead against yours. “And you own mine.” 

The two of you then share one last kiss before deciding that it’s time for you to come back home. However, instead of coming out of the secluded area separately like what you two always do, you were walking back home holding each other’s hands, enjoying the quiet atmosphere of Sumeru City under the stars.

PENPALS. @scaraslover @saving-for-xiao @dawgimsohot @kazu-topia @chiruru @aqualesha @renamichii @mrkamisato @shenhesl0ver @serami00 @serenareiss @hiqhkey @emperatris-rinaka @bystander36 @irisxiel @ladycoleigh @034ven @dear-dairiess @owozi8 @hadesaedes @chiro-chiro-kun @hersscherofyatta @mariusvonhangme @yuzuricebun @nejibot @hoshikistarlette @solaaresque @crowbird @lordbugs @flowersforayato @headintheclouddd @estelwrld @giyusimpsassemble @irethepotatosblog @moonlightaangel @alice0blog @shotosbrainrot @sniffoat @chihawari @mxsomn @kuni-kuzushii @jiminscarmex @mitsukii14 @nejibot @ylimeprive @sachispet @loreleis-world @sn-owo @starforecasts @someonetookmynamelmao @ceylestia @lychme @ymikkos @reallysporadicarcade @melodyyamino @dudufodd @somberrock

[yestrday]

evilly rubs hands together. may I suggest making derogatory comments w/ them in the room & forcing them to agree with azul from twst as the victim

oh twst... the bane of my existence.... i havent touched u in a long time but ur men has been on my mind rotating like casserole....

( objectifying, collar )

part of an ongoing event!

╰┈➤ AZUL ASHENGROTTO of octavinelle.

"hm, i think silver suits them far better than gold," you hum, fingering the shiny collar around your toy's pale neck. "suits his hair, don't you think? i just had this one made, and it looks quite charming, if i do say so myself."

the deep blue glow from the aquarium luminates the dim lounge, making it seem more of a bar rather than a cafe. lounging upon its cushioned seats, you idly chat and drink with your friends, all the while enjoying the cling of your cute little plaything.

azul shivers as your friends leer at his collar and sidle up to you, despite the embarassed blush on his face and quivering lips. as he shifts, the slip dress he has on hikes up and reveals his smooth upper thigh, before he squeaks miserably and pulls it down in haste. you laugh as he buries his face in your arm.

"easily embarrassed, is he?" a friend of yours jeers. he tilts the wine glass towards the two of you. "tamed and collared azul ashengrotto, octavinelle's head and owner of mostro lounge. you sure move quick."

"well, that's just what happens to impostors who try to be more than what they actually are," you chuckle, and let the wine trickle down your throat after. "can you believe it? this little thing tried to scam me into a contract after the first meeting— as if i don't have everything i could possibly want."

the groups laughs at the sheer audacity of azul, and the man burns even brighter than possible. he prided himself in being up-to-date with the latest information, and approaching you was the biggest mistake of his life. how could he have let such a vital information slip past his fingers?! it was humiliating, utter—

"ng-gh?!" azul yelps as you tug him by the collar, and he looks up to see that same prideful grin on your face. he wants to hate that stupid expression, the same one you wore when you scammed him. it's the expression of one who was born with it all, but how could he hate it when you looked so dastardly handsome with it.

"father tried to dissuade me from bringing in some nobody from some ocean. you wouldn't have believed the shit i had to do to persuade him." appalingly enough, that brings a flutter to azul's stomach. exactly what lengths did you go to just to keep him? "but i think the investment was worth it."

"i heard about it," one hums. "he's pretty enough... but all that just for him?"

"just?" you chuckle, tugging the collar again and bringing him to your chest. he tenses when he feels your arm wrap protectively around his waist— shudders when you squeeze it— and he instinctively brings his head to rest on your chest. your friends have seen all kinds of men and women drape themselves over you, but not as intimate as this one has. they regard the both of you with amusement— your latest plaything's thighs straddling your one leg and your hand petting his hair and eliciting the faintest of whimpers from him. "come on, you should see how good he looks when he's begging for more. or how shy he gets when he puts on my latest gift in front of me."

"[y - y. name]!" he whispers your name frantically, looking at you with panicked eyes. "the things you're saying...!"

"what, getting shy now?" you tease him, rubbing the tip of ear and watching him shudder. "come on, you're my pet, azul. i only pick the finest. you have the right to know how gorgeous you are despite being so filthy. aren't i, right?"

it's not a rhetorical question. your haughty gaze pierces right into his trembling pupils. you want to show off to these people, and you expect him to comply. he averts his gaze from those eyes. "y... yes..."

you tug his collar again, forcing him to look at you. "louder."

"y-yes!" he yelps, squeezing your leg between his thighs in panic. "you... you pick the prettiest things... i'm..." he blushes, looking down at the body he had always been so insecure of. "i'm no exception..."

you're not insulting him— quite the opposite, in fact, but azul finds no comfort. not with this flimsy silk dress and the predatory eyes on his back. he watches as your grin grows wider.

"of course not," you grin, tracing the shiny new collar and looping your finger around to bring him closer to your face. "and you're the prettiest of the bunch."

[writer-kermit]

sweet like candy.

❥ PAIRING: NANAMI KENTO × GN!READER

❥ GENRE: SMUT

❥ COMMISSIONED OR SELF-MADE: SELF-MADE

❥ WORD COUNT: 1.2k

ঞ~SUMMARY: It's the night of Halloween. And your lover Nanami Kento is certainly in for a treat.

ᰔ KERMIT'S NOTE: I LIVE! I HAVE RISEN BACK ONCE MORE! I like to apologize for my lack of posting. I've been really busy with work and I lacked motivation for the past few months. As a celebration of TickleTober, I've decided to create this fic. I will try my best to write more. And thank you to the people who stuck around! If you want commissions, DM me or visit my Ko-Fi. If you want, I'm also drawing commissions too! Thanks for the support!

P. S: I had no specific prompt I just did all of them (almost)

ʚ WARNING: NSFW, Sensual biting, Teasing, Erotic Tickling, Overstimulation, MINORS!! PLEASE GO AWAY.

It was that time of year again—the year when children would wear their most flamboyant costumes and wander around the luminous and chilly neighborhood. The children would knock on each home, hoping to receive something good to eat. Upon their next home, they would meet a particular house that wasn’t fond of trick-or-treaters. That house was none other than the Kento’s residency.

The house looked empty and eerie. You could’ve mistaken it for an actual haunted house. Those who were cocky enough to knock on the door will meet with a surprise.

A go-away sign? Welp, better luck next time kids; Nanami Kento doesn’t celebrate Halloween.

Ah yes, Hallow’s Eve. Nanami’s least favorite holiday. Not because he’s an envious adult, but because he hates the obnoxious noises he’ll have to endure until late at night.

You, however–enjoyed the thriller nights. You’d gaze at the children running along the neighborhood in search of some candy. You missed the times you’d trick-or-treat with your friends and family. As you slowly closed your bedroom window, you turned to your lover Nanami, who was too busy watching the latest horror movie.

“Oh Kento,” you sighed, “don’t you miss trick-or-treating as a kid?” Nanami flicked his eyes at you before quickly peering back at the television. “I don’t like Halloween that much.” He stated. “And why is that?” You asked, now sitting beside him. “There is no reason. I merely enjoy the alluring night when Halloween comes to an end.”

"I knew you’d say something like that.” You chuckled. “I guess you’re right,” Nanami smiled. “But there is one thing I like about this holiday.” A cocky smirk curved on your lips. “I bet it’s the candy, right?” You gestured. Nanami looked at you casually. He then pulled you into bed, making you lie down.

“You’re correct. How did you know, dear?” He asked. “Hehehe… You’re always a sucker when it comes to sweet things.” You replied. Nanami chuckled at your comment. “I will admit that,” He hummed, “But there is this one rare candy that I’m fond of nowadays.” As Nanami says that, he gets on to of you, making you anxiously giggle. “I wonder what this new candy is called,” You replied. “It’s called the [....] special. It’s currently my favorite.” “Oh yeah?” “Yes. And I’m dying to know the flavor.”

Wasting no time, Nanami pressed his lips against yours. He kept your tongue preoccupied as his hands crept under your shirt, his fingers gently caressing your tummy. He then pulled back from the kiss leisurely, awing at the feverish look plastered on your face.

“Mmm… Just as I thought,” Nanami husked. “You are sweet like candy.” He then kissed your neck, making you gasp in surprise. You moan softly between his kisses, almost tickled by his lips against your skin. A shy giggle escaped your lips as he gently tugged your skin.

“W-wait…” You whispered. “Ken…that tickles…” Nanami’s ears rang to know you were ticklish. A small smirk curved on his lips. “Is that so?” He teased. “Would you like me to stop then?” “N-no! I don’t hate it or anything. It’s just that this feeling is unusual.” You said. Nanami gave you a reassuring kiss. “Shall we sort out this unusual feeling together?” He asked you. You’d be lying if you said you didn’t hesitate. However, you couldn’t help but nod for the thrill of it.

You watched Nanami as he pinned your arms above your head. “Keep your arms up. You can do that for me, right?” He asked you. “That depends on what you’re gonna do.” You remarked.

Nanami didn’t reply to your response. Instead, he let his calloused fingers do the talking. He slowly rubbed the palms of your hands, radiating a ticklish feeling.

His fingers slowly descend, now getting dangerously close to your underarms. You tried squirming away without pulling down your arms. But Nanami was quick to straddle you. His fingers scribbled across your poor armpits without warning, forcing you to pull your arms down.

“Ehahaha! W-wait! Wahaihaihait!” You squealed. “Wait for what?” Nanami cooed. “Don’t tell me you’re backing down so soon.” “N-not true!” You recoiled. “I just wasn’t ready! That’s all.” “You don’t have to be ready, sweetheart.” He replied. “Now, keep those arms up. Don’t even think about pulling them down.”

“Nn…” You whined, slowly putting your arms back up–only for Nanami’s fingers to attack you again. Scribbling and scratching against your poor ribs. You arched your back almost instantly. Your head turned from side to side as the tickling was unbearable.

“AHhnn! Kentohoho wait!” You pleaded, clenching your fist together. “I’m sorry baby. But I already lost my patience with you.” Nanami hummed, nuzzling against your neck. His hands slowly spider across your sides and back. “Nooahahaa! P-please, slohohow down!”

Nanami found peace through your whines and pleading. He dipped his head down to your stomach, planting tiny kisses and nibbling across your sensitive skin.

“I love this cute tummy…” Nanami muttered, his hot breath grazing your skin. “It’s soft and warm like baked bread. Wouldn’t you agree [....]?” Your words became inaudible. A mixture of laughter and moans escaped from your lips.

Nanami chuckled at your state, enjoying the lovely noises you made for him. He continued teasing your tummy. His hands clawed on your hips to keep you in place. Suddenly, his tongue slipped inside your navel, tickling you in a frenzy of hysterical laughter.

“HEEHAH!” You shrieked, right before covering your mouth with your hands. “And this adorable belly button,” Nanami teased, “It’s sensitive hm?” You only giggled and shook your head. “You liar….” He cooed, gently blowing at your navel. As he went further down, he stared at your twitching sex.

“[....],” Nanami sang to you, “don’t tell me you’re getting aroused just from me tickling you.” “Hehehe! N-no!” You panicked, pressing your legs together. “I-it’s not like that at all…” “It’s not? Then why so shy love?”

Nanami slowly spread your legs apart, revealing your aching spot. You let out a squeaky moan in surprise when Nanami’s fingers stroked you lustfully. You watched him hazily as he peeled your remaining undergarments.

“It seems like the [....] added a new flavor.” He joked. Nanami then grasped your inner thighs as he leveled his head at your sex. His breath only inches away from you. He then looked up at you again, taking detail of your shallow breaths and heated face. “Thank you for the treat….” He rasped.

Nanami then wrapped his lips against your sex. His tongue was light and gentle. Yet the sensations rushed through your body. You moaned happily as he growled and moaned against your sex. “Ahahaha… K-Kento… Kento…” You moaned, bucking your hips repeatedly. Nanami let out reassuring hums as he massaged your hips, stimulating you further.

“Your flavor…” Nanami grunted, “It’s so enticing. I want more of it… I want more of you…” He kissed your lips with hunger, and you melted into the kiss almost instantly. You then felt something poke your thigh. You then had an idea.

“Oh Kento,” You sang, “did you know that there’s a new candy in stores?” “Hm? What’s it called?” Nanami asked. “The Nanami - Delux. I assumed you heard of it.” His lips turned into a curt smile. “Suppose I have,” he replied, pulling out his leaking cock. “Are you willing to take responsibility?” You giggled and wrapped your arms around his neck. “Perhaps. I’ve been dying to know your flavor.”

[horseshoegirl]

Damn Those Dog Tags: Part 15 - Have You Ever Seen The Rain

📖I need to make two apologies. First, I am so sorry for the long delay. While work was beating my ass, I actually received a rude comment on my Wattpad account for the last chapter that triggered a horrible writer's block. It was taken care of, and it didn't bother me at the time, but I didn't realize how much it affected me until I started to write. Then I decided to use it for inspiration!

Secondly, I'm so sorry for what is about to unfold. This one was planned from the get-go (which is also probably why I struggled because this is the one chapter I dreaded having to write).

(I'll be running from the pitchforks as they come, Woot Woot!)

❗️+18, strong language, godmother reader/original female character, Mentions of an original child, Shitty family dynamics, Angst, verbal fights, sexist implications, one slap across the face, and Jake being Hangman.

#6k words

Part 14 | Masterlist | Part 16

The story behind how you started ego-checking some of the cocksure pilots at Hard Deck is less interesting than one might think.

It all started with a game. 

You weren't kidding when you told Jake you were a library, loving geek who'd rather spend her time deep in the stacks. That was the plot of your entire post-secondary experience. You didn't know how to flirt. You stayed clear of frat parties and cliquey groups. And if a guy tried to flirt with you, you ran for the freaking hills without a backward glance.

You only decided to take that bartending job in building H's damp, dark basement because you were dead-ass broke. But the thing about being a bartender on a University campus, there were moments when you had nothing but time on your hands.

You had to get creative.

Looking back, you would blame the writer-orientated part of your mind that decided to create that little game of making up stories for the people who regularly visited the miserable bar.

The quiet girl, always sitting in the back corner, cramming for a test or writing a paper. Did she like the ambience, or was she avoiding the library? Or was she trying to work up the nerve to ask out one of the bussers, waiting for the perfect meet cute?

Maybe the nerds who gathered every Friday at the arcade-style game consoles playing Pac-Man needed to leave their dorm because Friday nights tended to be the one night everyone liked to party.

Those popular girls sitting around a table with their $5 cocktails, lowcut tanktops, and jean shorts, always on their phones gossiping over the latest social media post from their favourite celebrities. Did they have Regina George in their ranks? Which one was sleeping with the other's boyfriend? How much blackmail did they have on each other?

Which one would murder the other first?

That little game you invented for yourself got you out of your shell. It also made it easier to deal with the persistent football jocks who'd try to flirt with you for a free shot.

Ridley would always get a kick out of it whenever you told her. You'd always imagined her curling up in a ball and kicking her feet back and forth while she squealed in laughter over the phone.

"Be a character in one of your freaking stories. Or better yet, act it out! You're a damn writer, Lizzie."

She was right. So you did. 

You'd never forget the laughter of that football jock when your rejection of his flirting attempts to weasel a free drink out of you resulted in his childish reply of, "Well, nobody's perfect, Sweetheart, least of all you."

"I never said I was," you had said with a smile.

You must have said something right because a few minutes later, Penny was introducing herself and chatting you up, asking if you wanted a better job bartending.

You were all too happy to leave. But nothing could have prepared you for the hotshot, ego-driven, and stupidly horny Top Gun pilots who frequented the Hard Deck. 

Between remembering their drink order or what side of the room they tended to gravitate towards, you needed more than your little guessing game to figure out their tells. You did pick up little things about them, though.

The WSOs were the kindest; ironically, they stood out in the crowds. Always a kind smile, never a bad thing to say about anyone.

The female pilots were always badass. At least, you thought so. Strong. Always commandeering the room the second they walked in. Always nice, no question about it. But mess with them; you got schooled hard.

They were the literal definition behind the saying, 'Do no harm, but take no shit.'

And with each new group that came in, the male pilots, the single flyers you had called them, paled compared to those jocks. They never changed. A pair constantly vied for first place with each new group that came through the Top Gun program.

Always a pair of males. Women always knew there was more at stake than a freaking trophy.

Those guys talked to you. Well... properly flirted at you.

That's where your little game came in handy. Picking out the little things about them, letting your mind do the creative parts next. It's how you turned Jake down so quickly that first time.

But the guy currently approaching the bar? He did not fit the bill of any regular customer you had seen in a while.

Tourists came and went without question. They stood out like a pack of flies, unsure where to go, with friendly faces and always asking what the best places were. They tipped great, and they never returned.

This guy? 

Not a tourist.

He was from out of town. The plaid shirt, jeans and cowboy boots were unusual for a California bar. It was also how he gaped at the walls and ceiling, taking in all the Navy memorabilia Penny had collected over the years. If you hadn't been paying attention, you could have sworn there was a look of distaste on his face with each new item he saw.

But what irked you was the sense of familiarity you couldn't place while looking at him. Blonde hair and a sharp face. Something in how he carried that toothpick between his teeth, not in the way god forbid fucking Tyler had, but as if it was a piece of grass. Also, in the way he walked.

Then he openly leered at a woman's ass as she walked by, and it all made sense.

Ah, a Wham, Bam, Thank You, Mam.

He sat in the empty chair directly in front of you, still watching the women's retreating form. You didn't want to serve him, but a tiny part of you hoped your assumption had been wrong.

It had been a while since you had to rebuff flirty advances; the newer pilots going through the Top Gun Program hardly said anything to you except smile and relay their order.

You suspected Jake was behind it.

"What can I get you?" you smiled at the guy. He slowly pulled his eyes away with a sly grin. The second he caught sight of your face, his mouth stretched even wider as he leaned forward on the bar.

"Your number and the name of a good hotel."

You should have known better. 

If it looked like a duck, it quacked like a duck too.

Resisting the urge to roll your eyes, you straightened the line of shot glasses under the bar, not once looking up as you answered him. "Well, I can answer one out of two of those questions, but I'm afraid the only hotels around here are resorts. There is a bed and breakfast about ten minutes down the road that will give you a good deal."

"Will they give me a good deal if I mention your name?"

"Only my friends know my name, and you are simply a customer sitting at my bar wanting a drink?" you raised your eyebrow, tapping your finger against the bar.

He made a show of thinking about it, rocking his shoulders back and forth. He finally nodded, leaning forward to answer you.

"Whiskey. Straight."

You recognized his accent as you reached beneath the bar to grab the bottle. It was more pronounced and slightly more profound, but without a doubt, he sounded like Jake.

Good old southern Texas Charm.

Normally you'd engage in small talk, but you wanted nothing more than to leave this asshole alone. Thinking he'd leave it be after you poured him his drink, you slid the glass forward, then made your way over to the other side of the bar.

The words he called out after you made you stop in your tracks.

"You must get attention all the time. Having your pick of the litter each year."

You whipped around, offended. " Are you calling me easy?!"

He shrugged. "I'm just saying a good-looking woman like yourself, in this place... you clearly aren't sticking around because of the pay."

Oh, you wanted this guy gone. That could have been one of the most double-standard comments you had ever received. Old Liz would have sputtered, maybe run into the back fridge and asked one of the other bartenders to handle it.

You now? No chance in hell. If he were going to give it, you would give it right back. You weren't going to play the boyfriend card. You could fight your own battles, and something told you even if you told him you had a boyfriend, he'd think you were lying. He seemed like the type that wouldn't take no for an answer.

"You've got some nerve." You crossed your arms, matching back to him from the other side of the bar. "Let's get one thing straight. I'm not here because I'm looking for attention or have trouble finding a date. You've spent all of two minutes sitting at this bar, talking shit, while I've been fighting the urge to point out your confusion regarding basic anatomy." 

He raised his eyebrows at your reply. "My confusion?" 

You leaned forward, resting your arms upon the bar, eyeing him sourly. "Is your mouth your asshole, or are you just one?" 

It was one of the more cruder remarks you had ever responded with. But this guy was trying to go for gold. Unphased, he leaned back in his chair, throwing his hands up. "Hey, no need to be aggressive. You should take it as a compliment. I never called you anything derogatory." 

You huffed, pushing yourself away from him, rolling your eyes. "Calling me good-looking, then proceeding to say I'm only working here because it's 'easy to access' is still calling a woman a slut. You don't need to say the word to imply the meaning." 

You ripped the dishrag from your shoulder, running it under the tap, muttering more to yourself, "There's no way that shit works on women."

"It does on the women back home," he answered you.

"Oh, so are you staying? Don't tell me you're a new pilot at Top Gun."

They'll beat that attitude right out of you.

"Oh, I'm just passing through. I figured I'd scout out the area. I heard this was a Navy bar. Don't understand what all the fuss is about." 

You didn't answer him. Opening your mouth only led to him replying, and the quicker he finished his drink, the faster he'd leave. He took your silence as a means to continue. 

"Still playing hard to get?" 

"You ask me a question. I might choose not to answer." 

"Wow. Subtle." 

You turned, a hand on your hip. "You can't honestly expect me to speak to you, a complete stranger, after the way you just undermined my job because I'm not giving to your attempts. There is nothing to get." 

He smiled, holding out his hand. "George Seresin. There, not a stranger."

Well, shit.

You wanted to hang your mouth open like a fish. You were staring down Jake's brother.

Now you understood Jake's reaction to Janet's warning. His anxious behaviour in the back of his truck. His lost-in-thought stares or the way he couldn't stop looking at you and Sadie when he came home from work this week.

George Seresin was a very unwelcome, uninvited and long-awaited guest.

Something snapped in your stomach, a twinge of weariness that Jake didn't confide in you. Then again, your slight disappointment was overshadowed by something greater.

Clearly, you were fated to ego-check both Seresin brothers while standing behind this bar. Because the idea came without warning, without doubt, or any sense of hesitancy. 

George Seresin was at the Hard Deck.

He was right in front of you, trying to flirt with you without any idea who you were. 

And he was sitting in the best spot in the entire place.

It was too good of an opportunity to pass up.

You stepped backwards, turning to lean up against the bar. As you did with Jake all those months ago, you took the rag and started to wipe.

"So let me get this straight," you said, dragging the damp cloth around his glass, not once looking up. "I tell you my name in some effort to prove we are not strangers. I'm supposed to forget about your 'comments,' so you can use that good old Texas charm to woo me into your bed with a promise of a good time?"

You finally looked up, George only staring back at you with a heated smoulder.

"Something tells me none of those loose cannons cannot even promise you a good time. A quick roll in the sheets before they let some brass monkey in a fancy suit tell them where to shoot. You look like you could let loose for once in your life."

You froze, losing your grip on the rag and fingers twitching. Scanning Jake’s brother, you leaned against the bar, resting your weight on your elbows, throwing the fabric over your shoulder as you got inside his bubble. You never once broke eye contact as you pinned him down.

George bought it, hook, line and sinker. He was so focused on you and your face that he was oblivious to everything and everyone around him, including how your hand slowly reached up toward the rope hanging from the top of the bar.

The second he looked at your lips, you tugged.

Cheers and music flooded the Hard Deck when everyone heard the distinct ring of the barbell. You guessed the song right away, old habits dying hard.  Slow Ride, its distinct beat letting you know Jake was here and he had seen the whole thing.

George reeled back, shocked as a few people came up and slapped him on the back, thanking him. You laughed softly at his reaction, pushing yourself away to help the few customers you knew who would take advantage of the free drink.

You had never rang the bell for someone like him. George Seresin would be the only exception.

"What the hell just happened?" he called after you. You didn't bother turning around, flinging your hand to gesture over your head, "Read the sign!"

George followed the direction of your hand, landing on the piece of wood dangling by the silver chain.

You disrespect a lady, the navy, or you put your cell phone on the bar, you buy a round.

You had already helped a few customers when he managed to tear his eyes away to glare at you heatedly. You turned to face him with a gleeful grin. Instead of asking him which one he thought you rang him out for, you started teasingly singing along to the chorus.

You hadn't done that in a while. It felt good.

"What did he do to warrant that?" 

You smiled up at Jake as he approached the bar. He never took his eyes off you as he leaned on his elbow against the top of the bar beside George. 

"What do you think?" you laughed at him.

Jake smirked. "I'd say he didn't take no for an answer."

"He did a little more than that. Tell him to put his cell phone on the bar, and he'd get three out of three."

"Ouch," Jake dramatically drawled. He finally turned his head, nodding once in his brother's direction. "Hi, Georgie." 

You stiffed a giggle. 

George huffed, jutting his chin out in your direction. "This one is trouble."

"Don't I know it," Jake said, looking back at you. "Pulled the same trick on me the first time I met her. Only she didn't ring the bell. Guess I did something right, considering she let me come back."

George glanced between you and Jake several times, and you could see the gears grinding in his head. 

"Hi," you beamed at him, walking over and holding out your hand. "Elizabeth Beck. Your brother's girlfriend. I guess we aren't strangers after all."

George stared down at your hand, then gritting his teeth, knocking back another gulp of whiskey. He spat out his following words with the glass still to his lips, "So you are real. Jake, there's no way you're dating her."

 You didn't try to hide the snark from your voice as you lowered your hand. "You thought I was imaginary? Sorry to disappoint."

George still chose to ignore you. "What's the matter, little brother? Need your girlfriend to speak for you?"

Jake stiffened, and it took everything in you not to ring the bell once more. Cause you knew if you did, Jake would be the one to help throw George out, and you didn't know what repercussions he could face.

"At least he has a girlfriend," you scoffed. "I can't imagine you've ever had a meaningful relationship with how you treat women."

You spied his empty whiskey glass, grabbing it firmly.

"Wham."

Sliding it across the bar's smooth surface, you caught it in the palm of your other hand.

"Bam."

Reaching into the pocket of your apron with your free hand, you slapped his bill down in front of him, rounds and all, attempting your best version of a Texan accent.

"Thank you, Mam."

Not wanting to waste more time on him, you turned to Jake, slightly worried. Some of you didn't know how to act around Jake when he was like this. When he was so... Hangman.

You gently touched his wrist, murmuring softly, "I'll see you in a half hour?"

He twisted his arm in your grasp, sliding his hand down so he could gently squeeze yours. But his eyes screamed a different, intense, unsettling story. As if he was assessing you for any threat.

"Sure."

You tried not to let it bother you, his non-chalent reply. Trying not to frown, you let go of his wrist to serve another customer, calling out as you walked away, "It was nice meeting you, Georgie!"

Jake watched you go with a slight turn of his head, proud you one-upped his brother but wishing you didn't leave him alone.

He knew why George was here. What he wanted him to do. No amount of smirk, cockiness, or even Hangman, could save Jake from this. George was the grave reminder that no matter where the Navy sent him, whether in California or on the other side of the world, there was no end to the metaphorical leash the 'hell bringer' had on both of his sons. 

George scraped his chair back to stand. "Come on, little brother," he gruffed out, tossing his credit card onto the bar. "We need to have a chat."

—-

With Ridley's Jean jacket in hand and your bag, you placed them on the bar as you greeted Jimmy after finishing your shift. "Can you watch these for a second, Jimmy? I'm just going to the bathroom before I find Jake. We're going to pick Sadie up from Penny's and take her out for dinner."

The older man smiled. "She's feeling better?"

You nodded. "Mild concussion. She was okay after a few days and back at school. Bummed about not being able to play in soccer playoffs, though. Hence the trip."

"That girl loves her soccer. What a shame."

"Jake's is making it easier on her. I don't know what I would do without him."

He tilted his head towards the bathroom hall with a knowing grin. "Go get ready for your date."

You blushed, walking away, calling over your shoulder, "It's not a date!"

After freshening yourself up, you took a few moments to stare at yourself in the bathroom mirror. You saw the famous callsign board hanging on the wall behind you. You scanned the names from the mirror, looking for Jake's, doing a double take when you couldn’t find it. You turned, properly facing the wall.  

Like the sign in the bar, it was a piece of wood with the words engraved into the top, “Ladies Beware: Navigate the Hard Deck with Care!” and underneath that, “Pilots who fly solo.” Several metal slots were glued to the surface, designed so she could easily slide plastic slate with a pilot’s callsign into place. 

You recognized a few, even Rooster's, though his was listed way further down, out of harm’s way. But Jake's was nowhere to be found. 

Then you realized - Penny had taken his name off.

She didn't do that for a lot of people. You could only recall one other instance when she removed a pilot's callsign from that board. She prided herself on it, so much so she never removed Maverick's at the top of the list, even after they got back together.

You needed to tell Jake. 

With a hint of a smile, you eagerly walked out of the bathroom to find him. He was standing with George at the pool table, the elder Seresin brother lining up a shot as he spoke. As you approached them, you honed in on Jake, realizing he looked uncomfortable. Stiff, shoulders square, and his fists were clenched tight.

The closer you got, the more you heard of their conversation, and when you heard Sadie's name fall from George's mouth, you froze. Hearing him utter her name, especially in that hardened tone, was a punch to the gut. The urge to hide behind one of the support pillars in the middle of the room at the last second was too great to ignore, and you made yourself as small as possible. 

You had stumbled upon a conversation you weren’t supposed to hear. George’s voice accompanied the sound of the eight-ball scattering the balls across the table. 

"Come on, man," he said, his tone laced with arrogance. "Think about it. She threw her whole life away for her niece. She's tied down now, and you deserve someone who can give you more than that."

Jake remained silent. George continued, encouraged by his lack of protest. "You're a Navy pilot, for crying out loud. You could have anyone you want. Why settle for a girl with so much baggage?"

You weren’t stupid. You knew enough about George to realize he was the golden child, the favourite used to getting his way. George would only see you as Jake’s attempt to one-up him on something. 

“You know why I'm here,” you heard him say firmly. “Dad doesn’t approve. He wants you to know if you continue on with her, you will never be welcomed back home.”

You swallowed hard, a knot forming in your stomach. There would never be a time when you asked Jake to choose you over his family, even with what you knew. You wanted to go out there, but this was Jake’s battle. Storming out to threaten anything but a kick to the balls was out of the question. 

But when Jake finally spoke, his words were like shards of ice piercing your skin.

"Yeah, you're right."

A strangled noise escaped from you, a sound of raw pain and disbelief. You clapped your hands over your mouth, trying to muffle the sob threatening to escape. George’s reply triggered the blood rushing through your ears, the pain in your forearm from your nails biting hard into the skin. 

“You know I am,” he laughed, another clack of the pool balls sounding out. “

There was only one way you saw this - Jake played you like he played those other bartenders. 

You couldn’t hide any longer. You pushed yourself away from the pillar, swerving around to confront them. 

“So Sadie and I were just a game to you?” 

Jake turned sharply, shock in his eyes. “Liz,” he held his hands out in front of him. “It’s not what…” 

“Not what?” you said heatedly, tears streaming from your eyes. “I heard plenty!” 

He opened his mouth to say something, but the words died in his throat, confronted with your beat red face and tears. You were not supposed to hear all that. 

The shock on his face was not enough to erase the sting of his words.

"Come on, Liz. You don't understand... it's..."

"What's there to understand, Jake?" you interjected, your voice seething with a volatile mix of pain and anger. "That I'm just another one of your bartenders?"

“Liz, don’t.” 

“Enlighten me, Jake.” You crossed your arms. “Tell me all the reasons why. That bringing me flowers wasn’t a game. That getting close to my niece wasn’t a game. Asking me to give you a chance, taking me out on a date.”

 You sobbed. “Taking me up in that damn plane.” 

The thought was erupt, tearing itself from the deepest part of your mind. You couldn’t help it, the words spilling out in blinded anger. “Was my grief an opportunity for you to get into my pants? Telling me it would be alright so you could leave me high and dry? Telling me it was going to be okay?” 

There was a sudden shift in his expression, his gaze hardening. As if a switch had been flipped, the warm, understanding man you knew disappeared, replaced by a stranger draped in defensiveness and sarcasm.

"Oh, excuse me," he declared. "I didn't realize I was your knight in shining armour, rushing to your rescue the second you need all your problems fixed. The girl who never had a relationship, thinking a man would solve all her issues."

The words hit you like a physical blow, your knees nearly buckling beneath you. Jake's harsh gaze didn't match his usual soft and protective demeanour. It was like looking at a stranger, someone you didn't recognize. The man before you was not the Jake you'd fallen for.

This man reminded you of your father. 

Was this his plan all along? You racked your mind, searching for any indication this had been coming. But what only stood out was Rooster's words echoing in your head where you found none. 

Did you really only add your name to the list of women Hangman had pursued?

Because here and now, those months of working through the trauma of losing Ridley didn't matter. 

Was anything about this past year even worth it? The moments you worked through when you would avoid anyone mentioning her because acknowledging her in the past tense was too much. Avoiding the things that reminded you of her. Till helped you through it.  

She would know what to say right now. She would be the one beating his ass with verbiage and scathing remarks. She would nail the moment and get it right. 

It hit you, the hidden weight of how desperately you missed her. 

Suddenly, you were that girl again, starting her first shift in that basement bar, wondering what to say to the students who saw you as a mere bookworm with no character or class - because you couldn't compare to the girl sitting in the corner writing her paper, actually having the courage to ask that busboy out. 

Or the geeks in the corner cheering as hard as they did when they beat their high score on the console, uncaring of strange looks. Or that girl, finally standing up to her 'so-called friends' when one had been spreading rumours and crude remarks about her to the others behind her back. 

He really did leave you out to dry. 

"Stay the fuck away from my niece," you managed to gasp through your tears. "And stay the fuck away from me."

You wanted to believe your assumption that Jake was merely putting on a front. Hangman, his alternate self, was his attempt at protecting himself. 

You had a hard time doing so.

There, plain as day, across his face was the most condensing grin you had ever seen as he dramatically drawled out slowly, "No fucking problem, sweetheart."

You didn't believe in thinking about everything you regretted throughout your life. Ridley was the only exception; if you had done more, moved back home after school, or gone to the police the day you kicked Tyler out, maybe she'd still be here. You couldn't change what had happened in your life, so spending time thinking about it in the present wouldn't do you much good. 

So it was no surprise to you when you followed through with your knee-deep reaction, your hand coming up out of nowhere, open and firm, slapping Jake hard enough across the side of his face, his head turning with the force of it.

You knew you shouldn't have. You weren't a violent person by any means. Next to Tyler, you never had raised a hand to anyone. You were too hurt to care you just slapped him.

That should have scared you shitless.

Rather than voice the obvious, you remained silent, allowing every repressed thought, every buried emotion to resurface.

Ridley - dead. 

Sadie - hurt. 

Tyler - lurking. 

Bradley - damaging.

It was all too much.

George's figure stood out from behind Jake amongst your blurry vision, tears creating a vignette in your line of sight. You tore past Jake, sticking your finger out only to push George square in his chest. He stepped back at the force, hand shooting out to balance himself against the pool table.

Jake wouldn't have done that had George not shown up. Had he not played with Jake's emotions.

"You need a fucking ego check and to grow the fuck up," you seethed at him. "I don't know whose got your balls on a very tight leash, but you have no right to go around and fucking up other people's relationships."

George didn't answer you, taking his hand off the table to stand properly. You pressed him again. "Does it give you some sick fucking pleasure to hurt your brother? Dad loves me best, so I'm going to remind everyone just cause I can?"

George was still avoiding your heated glare, fixating on his football ring, twisting the piece of metal back and forth. It only pissed you off further.

"My eyes are over here, Jackass! Have the decency to look me in the fucking eyes when I'm talking to you."

If nobody had been watching when you slapped Jake, you clearly had their attention now. Even with the music blasting from the speakers, every conversation in the Hard deck had gone quiet. You could feel everyone's eyes on you, but you couldn't care less.

You were too far gone.

George slowly cocked his head to face you. Your breath was harsh, your body jolting with each gasp as you gave in to the anger. "My sister died, and I took in my niece. What's so fucking wrong about that? That I threw my life away, that I have no future?" 

He shifted on his feet, about to transfer the pool stick into his other hand, when you reached out and snatched it out of his grasp, tossing it behind you with a clack. 

"You're damn right I did! That's what you do for people you love. I would sacrifice my entire life so she could have hers. And I would do it again in a fucking heartbeat. I will stay on the other side of that bar for the rest of my so-called miserable life, getting catcalled and dealing with assholes like you if it gives her the best shot with the shitty hand she's dealt. You, George Seresin, have no right to judge the choices I've made in my life." 

Your breathing was harsh, ribs aching with effort. Every vein, every pore, was consumed with pure white rage. And yet, you still found yourself growling out, "You have no right judging your brothers either." 

Even after breaking your heart, you still stood up for Jake. 

"He risks his life every single time he goes up in that jet just so the whole world can fucking survive. So you can go on day in and day out and let your father control what you want to do with your life. So you can gallant around letting someone who has lived their life decide what you do with the rest of yours? So Jake’s here for you to bully and control every time he comes home? What the fuck is wrong with you?”

The burning sensation in your cheeks mirrored the fire in your eyes, unshed tears making them shine brighter. The salty sting of tears blurring your vision did little to diminish the searing gaze you levelled at George.

"My sister believed everyone deserved a chance. That people cared, regardless of what they did or who they were. I had forgotten that until my niece invited Jake to a barbeque, till she invited him on a hike because he was being treated differently. Despite what I heard and everyone telling me otherwise, listing off why I shouldn’t. That he will hurt me and my niece, and I still gave him a chance.”  

Squaring your shoulders and balling your hands to fists at your side, you take a step forward, a dangerous glint in your eyes. You lean towards him, your face close enough to feel his breath, your jaw clenched and muscles tight.  

"You are the first person ever to prove my sister wrong,” your voice is dangerously low, underlying anger accompanying each word. “You sure as hell don't deserve that sentiment." 

As you stepped away, George lifted his head to glance around the room, everyone's eyes pinning him down. The older Top Gun instructors had stood at their tables and chairs, arms crossed. Some of the current students in the program also stood, the others sending him the most scathing glares they could manage. Even some regulars who weren't aviators were casting him a scornful glance.

You spun, ready to leave him in embarrassment and escape this literal fucking mess, when you caught Jake's bewildered gaze, his mouth hanging open in slight shock.

You weren't sure whether it was that look or the dying embers of your outburst that made you spin back around to snarl, "So, leave your brother the fuck alone! Live your own goddamn life without judging others for the choices they make! Cause you sure as hell don't know what it means to sacrifice something for those you love. If you need an example, look around this goddamn room."

Jake reached for your wrist as you charged toward the front door. The second you felt his touch, you shook your hand loose, a wrenching sob tearing through your chest.

"Don't fucking touch me!"

You didn't bother seeing his reaction to your remark, rushing to grab your bag and Ridley's jean jacket off the bar.

The skin around your wrist burned from his touch, the rough callouses once a comfort but now felt like coarse sandpaper. You wanted to get under a shower or jump in the sea, hoping to remove the feeling of every memory, kiss, and word.

God, you let him touch you. Do things with you.

You were going to throw up.

God forbid you didn't want to walk home. But you needed to go, be anywhere but here, and you didn't have your car. Barely keeping it together as you took off toward the door, you had half a mind to look up to watch where you were going, deaf to Jake's shouts of your name.

There was Bradley, sitting in the first booth by the door. His brow furrowed as you made your way over to him, probably having witnessed the ordeal. You were too upset even to question why he wasn't marching across the bar, ready to knock Jake to next Sunday.

It had been weeks since the fight, with no communication in between. But it was a distant memory compared to this. 

It didn't matter what he implied. It didn't matter what happened in your hallway.

It didn't matter.

It didn't matter.

It didn't matter.

You just needed your friend.

With each step you took toward him, your shame only grew greater. You couldn't even look him in the eye when you stopped, standing next to his side of the booth, hugging yourself tighter.

"Can you take me home, Bradley? I don't want to be here anymore."

Bradley's opportunity to act smug had finally arrived. But he didn't do anything other than frown. Standing up from his booth, he threw a few bills onto the table before blocking everyone's view of you. He placed a comforting hand on your back, gently pressing you forward as he uttered quietly, "Of course I can, Liz."

You kept your head down as you stepped towards the door, but Bradley, so willing to help you without so much of an 'I told you so,' made whatever resolve you had, crumble. Your knees wobbled, and your heart dropped into your stomach. You fell, and Bradley's arm whipped out, gripping your hip and pulling you tight to his side to support your weight.

Burying your head into Bradley's shoulder, you hid your face. You didn't want to see the looks of everyone in the Hard Deck, whether pity, concern, or applause, as another wave of tears wrecked your body.

Closing your eyes seemed better than reliving the truth.

And because you kept them shut, you didn't see George place a hand on Jake's shoulder, preventing him from going after you. Nor did you see the look of devastation wreck his face; the weight of every wrong decision he had ever made coming back to haunt him. 

Whether Jake turned on a dime to punch George square in the jaw, you heard none of it. You hadn't even bothered to turn back to look as Bradley carried you out the front door.

.... So... Who is going to pitchfork me first? 👀

Tag List:

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Part 16 - In the Blood coming soon

Wickett ;)

[haee-elia]

spence-tober: day 26 - house flipper

pairing: house flipper/fixer upper!spencer reid x fem!reader

summary: in which your boyfriend needs your expertise, for once

word count: 1333

warnings: lots of talk of plumbing, house flipping, everything in that realm. relationship struggles and communication hurdles, but they work on it... is that a warning?

spence-tober masterlist

“Hello?” You greeted as you walked through the unlocked door to a small fixer upper house. You had knocked beforehand, but you figured through the sounds of clangs and loud equipment that no one was able to hear you anyway.

The house was obviously under construction and you knew that too. The walls were not painted and you could see the spackle covering some holes. Some clear tarps were laid down over some sections of the floor and there were half taken down cabinets in the kitchen. 

“Hey, pretty girl. Thanks for coming.” 

You turn around and see Derek Morgan, the person who texted you to come over as soon as you got off work and then sent you the location. Not that you needed it.

Spencer had always put the address of the house he’s currently working at on a little post it note just in case you ever needed to find or reach him. 

You smile at the tall, muscular man in front of you, “No problem, at all. Where’s the problem?” You ask him while holding your basic tool box that you keep in your car.

When Derek had texted you about a little problem that Spencer and him had been having at their latest fixer upper house with the plumbing in the main bathroom, you had already been out the door at work and figured that the problem wouldn’t be too bad of a fix that you needed a bunch of professional equipment.

“Over here.” Derek gestures and then leads you through a long hallway down to the primary bedroom of the house, being careful to step over the broken pieces of old tile before swinging an arm over to the entrance of the bathroom.

“Morgan, I really think I can just-” Your boyfriend says, not realizing your presence since his head and upper body are contorted under the sink.

“Don’t touch that.” You intercept his sentence, quickly realizing what Spencer was about to touch.

Unfortunately, your sudden interception caused Spencer to bump his head as he heard your voice and a groan sounded out in the bathroom.

You wince for him and help him out of the tiny sink space, rubbing his head where you know a bruise would soon form.

“Who-” Spencer starts questioning, surprised to see you. “Why-” He stutters, “How-”

You shake your head and smile at your boyfriend who’s quite confused. “Derek called me. Said that you have a sink problem.”

Spencer whips his head towards Derek and gives him an accusing and incredulous glare, “I told you we didn’t need to call her.”

It doesn’t surprise you that Spencer didn’t want your help. It wasn’t like he thought he had the skills to fix the problem especially since it isn’t exactly in his wheelhouse. You knew it was because he didn’t want you to think he was dating you or using you for your skill set.

You never thought that he would, but Spencer had met you at a mutual friend’s open house where you had been the main plumbing contractor on the job. Once you had started dating, someone made an off handed comment that it was perfect that you both got together. A plumber and a house flipper! 

Since then, Spencer had been adamant that he was dating you for you and went as far as dealing with your coworkers and colleagues than yourself even if it cost him more money.

“Well judging by the way you were about to flood the entire bathroom, I think you need a little bit of help.” You comment, looking about where Spencer was about to implement his ‘fix’.

Spencer’s face flushes and Derek sends a joking glare at your boyfriend. 

“Don’t worry, I’ve got it from here.” You assure, holding up your portable tool kit with everything you’ll need for the job. 

Spencer steps aside at your insistence and you are able to grab the small flashlight from your kit, luminating the dark cabinet of the vanity sink.

“So, what seems to be the problem?” You ask the two men as they step aside in the bathroom to give you room.

“The water.” Derek says pointing at the faucet, “Won’t turn on at all. The tub and shower works. So does the toilet and the rest of the house, but the sink just doesn’t get water coming through it.���

You hum and then retract yourself from the sink and step out to test the faucet for yourself. Confirming that it indeed doesn’t work, you turn your attention back to the sink and set out your tool box.

“Alright,” Derek says, brushing off the imaginary dust from his hands. “Ima set off for today. Got a dinner date with Savannah.”

Both you and Spencer wave him off and with a final instruction for Spencer to lock up, you are left alone.

At first, the gentle twists of metal against metal and your elbows scraping against the wooden cabinets are all that can be heard in the bathroom. You know Spencer is still with you, you can sense his presence. 

“You know,” You start to say, maybe for the thousandth time at this point. “You can just call me if you need help with the plumbing. I’m happy to help.” You offer once again.

This has gone on for two years since you have been dating and multiple houses in which you find out afterward that a plumbing incident had occurred and one of your fellow plumbing coworkers had been called to deal with it.

“I know.” Spencer says, almost disappointed with himself.

As much as you both have communicated your separate struggles, it’s still hard for Spencer to send that perfectly crafted text to you asking for help or to have his finger press that call button connecting him to you.

You work in silence, the problem not having been a large or complicated one so it’s quickly resolved. Perhaps maybe thirty minutes go by. Spencer doesn’t leave but also doesn’t try to make conversation, knowing that you prefer to work in silence. 

“Alright,” You say, groaning as you shimmy out from under the sink. No matter how long you’ve been doing this job or how many sinks you’ve slinked under, your bones still creak and crack in protest to small spaces.

Spencer offers you a hand and you shoot him a grateful smile. It was not uncommon for Spencer to give you a back rub at your shared apartment after a long week at work. You did the same for him after a particularly busy demo week.

“That should do it.” You say, confirming your work done by pulling the faucet handle towards you, a smile grows on both of your faces as the water runs smoothly through the tap.

“Thank you, really. Thank you.” Spencer says giving you a hug from behind. His long arms wrapping around your waist and his chin resting on your shoulder.

Spencer wasn’t a very big fan of PDA, but in private, he was a touched starved clingy man who would wrap his entire body around yours if he could. Always a hand somewhere on your body and you were no stranger to any type of kiss.

A peck. A butterfly kiss. An eskimo kiss. Any of them Spencer could get behind. 

“It’s no problem.” You respond, “Just, call me next time? Promise.” You ask of him.

You feel him nod against your skin and you smile in response. “Okay, let’s go home then. I have the day off tomorrow.” 

Spencer hesitates and doesn’t unwrap from your frame, “What if-“ He starts on.

“What if you come back with me tomorrow? You could help and give us the okay to keep working on this bathroom?”

His voice is full of uncertainty and hesitation and you’re sure there is nervousness blooming in his chest. You comfortingly caress and rub your hand on his and turn your head to give him a kiss on the cheek.

“I’d love that, Spence.”

a/n: i am so close to the finish line now. just gotta close out the rest of the one shots and then ill be done! i could procrastinate the rest until they need to come out (i'm constantly a week ahead and then schedule) but i have some other things popping up with a deadline so ima try to knock these out!

[alexanderlightweight]

I just read your latest installment of little dragon and cat Magnus and I can't handle it, I need more like I need air. I left this as a comment, but I'm going to send again as an ask and hope to see more!

I need to know everything! What kind of hoard will Alec build? How will Magnus take care of his little dragon? What will they get up to?!

you don't get all the answers (cause i'm evil) but here are some of them! magnus is going to take very good care of his little dragon and that means keeping alec content enough to not destroy things.

there are going to be cultural misunderstandings (nothing angsty) and alec is incredibly demi-sexual in this and honestly, it might take a little while before he equates what he's feeling for magnus as attraction.

<3 hope you enjoy and i'm delighted by how much you love this verse!

lumine

-

Magnus stares at his dragon who is nuzzling Magnus’ hand and then he watches breathless, as Alexander looks about to answer. Then his eyes focus on Magnus' hand and he leans forward, lips wrapping around Magnus' finger without hesitation.

Alexander's eyes close with a blissful little trill as his rough tongue rasps against Magnus' skin and when he pulls off, the jade ring is gone.

“Was that tasty?”

Alexander goes still and for a moment, he watches Magnus curiously and then he smirks, smugness exuding from him as he stretches closer to Magnus.

“Delicious—” he murmurs, voice hoarse with sleep and then his mouth wraps around Magnus thumb, teeth tugging on the thick platinum band with a redirection ward in the obsidian stone.

Magnus lets him, not about to pull Alexander’s touch away from him, even if it means losing several more powerful stones. Magnus has a feeling that he’s going to be spending quite a bit of money and magic on gems from now on, especially if it means getting Alexander’s mouth on him.

There’s a click, like something breaking apart and when Alexander pulls back with a slick sound, the platinum is shiny and the obsidian gone, only and indent where it was nestled.

“Greedy boy—” Magnus teases, “weren’t all those jewels you stole enough for you?”

Long lashes flutter as Alexander looks up through them and he licks his lips, smirking as he shakes his head.

—

Alec had considered answering Magnus’ first question, until he got distracted by the jewelry on Magnus’ hands. It’s worth it though, because apparently what Magnus likes is when Alec touches him.

Magnus especially seems to like it when Alec tastes him, enough to even let Alec get away with stealing more gems. It makes him chirp, because this is going better than he expected.

Magnus doesn't do anything but chuckle when Alec unrepentantly shakes his head.

A hand cups his face, a warm thumb brushing over his cheekbone and Alec slides his eyes shut, leaning into the touch and feeling surprisingly content as the magic of his snack is devoured by his core.

It’s delicious and he licks his lips, the rasp of his tongue catching on Magnus’ thumb.  It seems rude to eat the whole ring, but the idea of having Magnus’ finger back in his mouth, warm and heavy with metal is almost too tempting to resist.

Alec is about to go for it when the magic of Magnus’ lair rings with an advanced warning.

Alec hisses and transforms on an instinct. He will fight to protect Magnus and the lovely garden and his pretty eyes and delicious magick.

This is Alec’s hoard and he’ll destroy anything that interferes.

—

Magnus nearly coos when Alexander transforms and starts hissing at the first hint of an intruder. It’s a delivery, but it seems that Alexander considers it a possible threat and Magnus has seen threat displays before and this one is adorably protective.

He’s well aware that Alexander is staying small out of courtesy for Magnus’ furniture and loft, that in his real size, Alexander could possibly even blot out the sun when he flies above. 

That does not mean Magnus is immune to the temptation of adorable a seething, defensive Alexander is.

He lands on Magnus’ shoulders the moment he gets up and his small, viciously sharp claws are delicate from where they rest on Magnus’ jacket.

Magnus makes a note to reinforce all his shoulders and sleeves and— actually, he’ll need to reinforce any and every article of clothing, just to be safe.

“Alexander, it’s a delivery. They won’t even come into the house.” Magnus promises while frowning internally because while not common, magnus does allow some clients into his lair. Which seems will no longer be something that’s tolerated, and Magnus is trying to keep Alexander, not drive his instincts mad.

He’s going to have to do some remodeling and quickly, if this is going to be as smooth a transition as possible.

Alexander settles but remains tense, hissing into Magnus’ ear whenever the energy gets too close until it’s gone. He insists on inspecting the package, breathing a strange silver mist over it before he licks the box and begrudgingly allows Magnus to take it.

It’s endearing and delightful and Magnus gets the box put away and then, because he’s not risking losing this opportunity and he shifts, pouncing on Alexander.

As he hoped, Alexander refuses to shift to anything other than a dragon only half of Magnus’ size. It’s clear that he’s concerned about how deadly his form is, even resting and while it’s sweet, it’s unnecessary.

However, since this provides the opportunity for Magnus to simply pick Alexander up and haul him to one of magnus’ various napping spots, Magnus isn’t ever going to say a word.

Magnus licks over smooth, hard scales rubs his cheeks over Alexander’s muzzle and head and the back of his neck and shoulders.  At one point, Magnus realizes that Alexander’s scales are lined with silver, and he purrs, kneading his claws on Alexander’s matte scales. 

He must look like stars, gliding through the sky like a dark shadow, the glint of silver when the moonlight hits the ridges of his scales.  Magnus chuffs and curls around his little dragon, content to simply keep him here, in Magnus’ hold while they nap.

[katy-l1988]

Chapter V: The Vee’s

The light filtered through the half-open curtains of the living room, painting the wooden floor with reddish tones and filling the space with a warm glow. In the spacious armchair, Carmilla was reclined, a worried expression on her face. Her eyes reflected a mixture of discomfort and determination as she tried to stay calm in the face of the symptoms plaguing her. With a deep sigh, she took the tea Rosie had carefully prepared for her. The steaming cup rested between her trembling hands, emitting a comforting aroma that filled the room with its soothing fragrance. She clung to the hope that it would all be worth it in the end, that she wouldn't make the same mistakes this time.

Rosie watched Carmilla with tenderness, aware of all the dilemmas she faced, especially the challenges of the present moment. She had known Carmilla for centuries, and now she felt deeply concerned for the well-being of her dear friend. They had been through a lot together, although not everyone knew it, and Rosie had always been an unwavering pillar of support for Carmilla after Zestial.

"And how's everything going with Velvette?" Rosie asked softly, breaking the silence that had enveloped the room.

Carmilla let out a heavy sigh at Rosie's question, feeling the weight of concern accumulating on her shoulders. It was difficult to put into words the complexity of her feelings regarding Velvette, her daughter who now seemed distant and indifferent towards her.

"Ugh, that girl…she wants nothing to do with me," Carmilla confessed wearily, revealing the sadness she felt for the rift that had formed between them. "No! Now that I'm very old and it's unfair for her…"

"Wait, you...old?" Rosie continued with a chuckle, finding the situation somewhat ironic, considering that Carmilla was much older than her, and yet she looked just as radiant as ever. "Well, maybe in centuries…but not in spirit!"

Her comment elicited a soft laugh from Carmilla, who couldn't help but chuckle as she tossed a pillow at Rosie in a playful gesture.

"Oh, you hush too!" Carmilla replied amidst laughter, enjoying that moment of lightness amidst her worries. "When you wrinkle up like a raisin, I'll be the one laughing."

"Don't worry, it'll be a long time before that happens," Rosie replied with a playful smile, showing confidence in her youth and vitality. "Ah, I just hope that young lady comes to her senses."

Meanwhile, Velvette had accompanied her father to a new building near the city, with two giant luminous Vs at the top. Araziel had told her he was going to discuss business with Vox, seeking to have the charismatic individual advertise their services. Vox, known for his ability to capture attention and his extravagant style, was a true showman. Always up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies, he had a magnetic personality that attracted many, including Velvette, who had been a fan of his shows since she was young.

On the other hand, Valentino, though less known to Velvette, was not unnoticed. With a smile always on his face, he exuded confidence and self-assurance. However, behind that facade of calmness lurked a volatile and manipulative character. With a life full of luxuries and surrounded by girls, he seemed like a carefree playboy, but in reality, he was someone with an explosive temper prone to resorting to violence to maintain control over others.

Although Velvette admired Vox, she couldn't help but feel cautious towards Valentino, whose unpredictable behavior aroused her distrust. Her mother had warned Velvette about him on more than one occasion. With a tone of concern in her voice, she had told her how that man dragged young people like her into a world of danger and bad decisions. Valentino approached Velvette with a radiant smile, his presence exuding confidence and a hint of arrogance that didn't go unnoticed. His eyes locked onto her with an intensity that made her feel uncomfortable, as if he were peering into her soul in search of secrets.

"You must be Araziel and Carmilla's offspring?" Valentino asked with a soft but suggestive tone.

Velvette nodded cautiously, not breaking eye contact with him. There was something in the way he looked at her that sent shivers down her spine, as if he were baring her soul with just a glance.

"I'm Velvette," she replied coldly, revealing little about herself.

Valentino smiled smugly, as if enjoying having her full attention.

"I must say, you have your mother's beauty, although not…her attributes."

Valentino's words made Velvette involuntarily tense. Though she tried to remain firm, she couldn't help but feel uncomfortable about the inappropriate comment regarding her mother. Carmilla could be many things, but she didn't deserve to be the subject of lascivious comments from a demon like him.

"You should have more respect for my mother," Velvette replied firmly, her voice trembling slightly with suppressed emotion.

At that moment, Velvette watched as her father and Vox emerged from the office, engrossed in animated conversation. Araziel seemed to be in good spirits, which was a good sign. The atmosphere filled with the buzz of the city and the tinkling of cars passing by on the nearby street, creating a dynamic and vibrant atmosphere.

"Valentino, I hope you haven't scared off the lady," Vox turned towards her with a charming smile, his eyes sparkling with curiosity as he observed her.

Velvette felt momentarily overwhelmed by the attention she was receiving from Vox, but she forced herself to maintain composure. With her head held high, she looked at Vox, trying to show him that she wasn't easily intimidated.

"Don't worry, it's hard to be afraid of a skinny little punk," Velvette growled with disdain, baring her fangs.

"Hey, easy there, girlie!" Vox said kindly, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "You really do have your mother's spirit."

"Yeah, well," Araziel chuckled nervously. "Vel, I've been talking with Vox, and we've made a few deals for you to work with him."

Velvette couldn't contain her excitement, her eyes shining with emotion. The idea of working with Vox sparked a spark of excitement within her, momentarily eclipsing the conflict with Valentino.

"Now, tomorrow we'll send some people to bring your things to your new room."

The surprise on Velvette's face was evident upon hearing Valentino's words. The idea of working day and night was not exactly what she expected, let alone being asked out of the blue without discussing it with her father beforehand.

"Move in...here?" They all nodded.

Valentino chuckled, as if Velvette's reaction amused him.

"Don't worry, darling. If you don't feel up to it, we'll find someone else."

She wasn't a coward, so she accepted without fear of the risks. If she wanted to succeed, she had to sacrifice herself, just as Carmilla had done at one time. Perhaps that way, she could make her notice her again.

Velvette got into the limousine that glided through the bustling streets of the city, nervous about her mother's reaction. With each passing building, her heart beat a little faster, feeling the gravity of the decision she had already made. Upon arriving, Velvette stepped out of the limousine and headed towards the main entrance. The elevator seemed to move slowly as it ascended floor by floor, and Velvette took those moments to breathe, trying to calm the nerves that invaded her. When the elevator doors finally opened, Velvette found herself steps away from the apartment door. She took one last breath before putting the key in the lock.

When she entered, Velvette was greeted by Rosie, who welcomed her with a warm smile and a tight hug that lifted her off the ground. Velvette returned Rosie's hug, feeling comforted by her aunt's affection. However, her gaze shifted to the kitchen, where she saw her mother preparing something to eat. Despite the distance between them, Velvette still felt a lump in her throat at the sight of her mother.

"Oh Auntie, I have something to tell you. I got a job with the Vees!"

Rosie stepped back slightly, noticing the confused and annoyed expression on Carmilla's face, who was approaching them.

"What do you mean?" Carmilla asked, her tone of voice betraying her confusion.

Velvette tried to maintain a smile, although the tension in the room was palpable.

"Yes, I'll be working directly with Vox," Velvette explained, hoping her mother would understand her decision. "I'll pack my things to move tomorrow."

Carmilla stood in Velvette's way, blocking the entrance to her room, forcing a friendly smile as her mind raced. She knew Rosie was present and didn't want to worry her, but the mention of the Vees and their hormones put her in a very complex situation.

"Velvette, I understand you're excited, but working with the Vees…" Carmilla struggled to find the right words, wishing to convey her concern without sounding too authoritative. "They're not exactly the best company, and I've told you that more than once."

Velvette frowned, feeling frustrated by her mother's reaction. She didn't want Carmilla to ruin her chance to work with Vox, her idol.

"Dad agreed. Why not you?" Velvette insisted, seeking her mother's support.

"Your father agreed?"

"Yes, he's the one who got me the job in the first place. He listens to my dreams and has done the impossible to make them come true."

Velvette's words only increased Carmilla's distress. She couldn't believe Araziel had consented to this situation, jeopardizing her daughter's safety and well-being.

"Look, I'm not asking you what you want to do or not. You're not leaving this house," Carmilla declared firmly, getting up from the couch. "Rosie, give me the phone, I'm going to call those idiots and cancel this whole absurdity."

Velvette jumped up, alarmed by her mother's abrupt reaction. Carmilla pressed the numbers on the phone with trembling hands, her pulse racing with anger and concern. Velvette tried to take the phone away, desperate to stop her mother before she made the situation worse, but it was already too late.

"Carmilla, darling. To what do I owe the pleasure?"

"Listen up, flat screen! I don't give a damn about the deal Araziel made with you," Carmilla said firmly, her words filled with determination. "But if you go near my daughter, I assure you, you'll regret the day you set foot in hell."

On the other end of the line, Vox listened calmly to Carmilla's threats. Though he wasn't afraid, he knew it was best not to underestimate her. She was a powerful and dangerous woman when it came to protecting her own.

"Oh, Carmilla, always so dramatic," Vox responded in his usual mocking tone. "But don't worry, if you don't agree with giving her a stable job in my company, I won't give it to her."

Carmilla clenched her teeth with fury, restraining the urge to throw the phone against the wall.

"That's what I thought, zoquete," Carmilla replied coldly, and hung up.

"Why did you do that?" Velvette's eyes sparkled with disappointment, her dream shattered by a call.

"Love, you have to understand," Carmilla approached her, placing a hand on her face, noticing the tears on her cheeks. "This is for the best for you."

"Ugh!" Velvette pushed her away. "I hate you!"

The young girl unleashed a storm of pent-up resentment, releasing all the pain and frustration she had been holding onto for years.

"You're selfish, manipulative, and controlling! You don't care about anyone but yourself!" she yelled, her voice trembling with suppressed anger. "You're never here when I need you! You're always busy with your work or your problems, you don't even care how I feel!"

Carmilla felt as if a dagger pierced her heart with every word from her daughter. Tears began to well up in her eyes, but she fought to hold them back, refusing to show weakness in front of Velvette.

"Velvette, I…" Carmilla tried to speak, but she was interrupted by her daughter, whose words were like poisoned daggers.

"I don't want to hear you! I don't want anything to do with you anymore! You're a burden to me, a constant nuisance. I wish you weren't my mother!"

Rosie quickly intervened, trying to calm the situation before it got worse.

"Velvette, that was too much. You need to calm down," Rosie said, placing a comforting hand on Velvette's shoulder.

But the young girl was too enraged to listen. She pushed away abruptly, her gaze filled with contempt and resentment.

"Don't touch me! From now on, you're nothing to me!" Velvette yelled before running out of the room.

Carmilla intended to follow her, but as soon as she moved, the world seemed to spin around her as she fell to the ground, trying to steady herself on the table. Dizziness hit her hard, leaving her disoriented. Rosie, with the quick diligence of someone accustomed to dealing with crises, rushed to Carmilla, her hands skilled and firm as she helped her sit. Concern reflected in Rosie's eyes as she watched her friend, feeling the pain and anguish emanating from her.

"Milla, you're trembling…"

The older woman tried to speak, but the words stuck in her throat, drowned by tears and anguish. Her breathing was irregular, punctuated by silent sobs that shook her body. Her hands clung to Rosie's as if they were her only anchor in the midst of the emotional storm consuming her.

Rosie enveloped her in comforting arms, trying to offer solace amidst her pain. Carmilla closed her eyes tightly, as a sense of oppression gri

pped her chest with relentless force. Her ears buzzed with a deafening sound, and her heart pounded in her chest like a wild drum. Each beat resonated in her head, amplifying the sense of despair that enveloped her. Her muscles tensed involuntarily as her mind struggled to find a shred of peace. Every second was an eternity of suffering.

For Velvette, things weren't any better. The sound of objects breaking echoed in the room, each crash and clang reflecting the unleashed fury that consumed her. She was in a frenzy, with every object she threw to the ground, feeling a surge of adrenaline coursing through her body. Every piece of furniture, every ornament, became a target for her uncontrolled rage. She struggled to contain the scream threatening to escape her lips. Every memory, every painful thought, materialized in the wreckage lying at her feet. There was no logic in her actions, only a desperate need to release the pressure threatening to crush her under its overwhelming weight.

Soon, Velvette grabbed a large bag that was stored under her bed, selecting necessary items for her daily life. Clothes, toiletries, some mementos saved from her outburst; everything was thrown into the suitcase with desperate urgency. Finally, with the suitcase full and her heart even heavier, Velvette stopped in front of the entrance door.

Rosie struggled to hold Carmilla, whose face was pale, barely conscious. Velvette felt a pang of guilt and remorse deep within her. For a moment, the urge to run to them and beg for forgiveness flooded over her, but a glance at the key she left on the entry table stopped her in her tracks. She knew there was no turning back, that her decision was made and she would have to face the consequences. So she left the apartment, closing the door behind her as she headed to the elevator leading to the garage. Each step took her a little further from her old life, a little further from her family, a little further from everything she had known. From now on, she was no longer Velvette Carmine, she was just…Velvette.

"What are you doing here? I thought your mother didn't want you to come."

Velvette maintained her stance in front of Vox, resisting any hint of intimidation in his crimson eyes. Despite his relaxed appearance in pajamas, she knew there was something more behind that charming facade.

"My mother has no power over me. I want to work with you guys and show her that I'm capable of doing it on my own," Velvette replied, keeping determination in her voice despite the uncertainty that invaded her.

Vox observed her for a moment, evaluating her words with an enigmatic expression. Then, with a casual gesture, he opened the door wider and invited her inside.

"Well then. If you're determined, I'm not one to stop you. Come, I'll show you your room," Vox said, indicating for her to follow him into the penthouse's interior.

Velvette took a deep breath, trying to control the nerves that invaded her as she followed Vox through the elegant corridors of the luxurious apartment. She was determined to make this opportunity worthwhile, even if it meant facing her mother and everything she left behind.

[moinsbienquekaworu]

And now, by popular demand, the latest post in the series of me listing fics I have enjoyed reading: Kylux edition! (dedicated to @romanticvampire and @zeawesomebirdie <3)

Usual disclaimers apply, that is to say I have my own personal tastes & biases, I prefer longer works, I read a lot of smut + people write a lot of smut for this ship, there are very few kinks I won't read, I love omegaverse, and there's lots of fucked up dynamics for these two, so read the tags carefully before reading!

Obviously I'm not saying those are the only good fics ever or the best, just that I had them downloaded to my phone/in my AO3 bookmarks and thought they were at least a fun read. You're free to think I have bad or weird tastes, but keep that to yourself.

All the links work as of late june 2023, so if you can't see one of the fics, it's probably archive locked. Sometimes I add comments but sometimes I don't, and obviously I have stronger opinions about certains works than others, but it also can just be that my memories are vague or that the summary just sells the fic better than any comment I could add. The fics are sorted from longest to shortest.

Onto the list!

First, here are authors whose names I Remember, most likely because I dug through their entire AO3 to find more cool fics back when I was really into Kylux, but also maybe because I realised while making this list that they'd written a few works I like but hadn't connected to them before. It doesn't mean those are the only authors worth reading, they really really aren't, they're just authors whose names I recognise and who wrote multiple fics I liked! They're listed in alphabetic order.

– callmelyss/(a)roseofgalaxies

• From the Last Whelming Sea (42k, 10 chapters)

By now, Kylo might have recited the story himself, how it had been before, how there was once a mighty republic—or an empire—or both?—between the many planets. How it had fallen into war and chaos. How, in insolation, their world had changed, the oceans rising, the cities tumbling. How the people had changed afterward, taken to the life still possible under the waves. – Generations after the Republic, the Empire, the Force, and terrestrial civilization have fallen from memory, Kylo is a prince on the cusp of fulfilling his destiny as leader of his people, who live among the sunken remnants of the world before. That is, until he meets Hux, a cantankerous tinkerer with an affinity for technology and the old relics, who challenges his understanding of everything he thought he knew about the oceans, the galaxy, his family—and himself.

• And All That Road Going (38k, 4 chapters)

Kylo regards the pair of them. Phasma’s pale hair haloes her paler face; Hux’s eyes are dark, unfathomable in the shadows. The city’s lights glitter behind them, beckoning them all back, but neither spares a glance that way, at that luminous oasis. They’re both looking at him, expectant, and at the road ahead. And it would be much easier to do this alone; he didn’t want to involve other people, least of all two strangers he’s just met. – Kylo Ren, AKA Ben Solo, the son of a prominent California Senator and a mechanic, flees his past and the authorities, trying to leave both behind in the Nevada desert. Along the way, he picks up a cynical waitress and a sharp-tongued con artist in need of their own new beginnings. Together, in his father's '77 Plymouth Voyager, they find more than the road between the edge lines.

• My Baby's a Devil in the Bedroom (20k, 6 chapters)

“Oh, obviously.” Kylo let out a shaky laugh and ran both hands through his hair. “Wait, no, you’re serious. You’re a fucking demon.” “Well, yes, not to put too fine a point on it.” Hux smiled, clearly pleased with himself at the joke. “Or more accurately, I’m a succubus. A sex demon.” – Kylo has an unusual squatter. He's pretty fine with it.

• Monster, Lovely (8.9k, 2 chapters)

“Wait, what?” The redhead—previously with his tongue halfway down Kylo's throat and his hand jammed into the front of his jeans—takes a halting step backward. He raises his fingers into the grimy light from the bathroom window. No mistake: they’re glistening with secretion and glowing a faint violet as he turns them this way and that, studying them. “Huh.” – It was supposed to be a casual party hookup. That was before Armitage knew about the tentacles.

• Hesitation Change (8.2k)

“I—" Kylo says. Meaning to explain. Except he doesn’t know that he can. Account for the impulse just now, to go against this precisely coordinated spectacle, to answer an unposed question, what it would feel like to kiss him in front of the entire expanse of known civilization, and, perhaps most pressingly, whether his lips are as soft as they look (softer). – The Supreme Leader marries his Grand Marshal.

-> absolutely insane about this author. Monster, Lovely is always lurking in my brain. From the Last Whelming Sea and And All That Road Going altered my brain chemistry. The author made all the works private while I was finishing up the list and I waited until they made them publicly available again because I could not post a Kylux reclist that didn't link to them. Lyss (if that's still what you go by?) if you're reading this you changed my life a little and I don't know you but I love you.

– Camellia Cook

• Catch and Release, in collaboration with armoredsuperheavy (19k, 4 chapters)

Six months after the death of Supreme Leader Snoke, Hux feels like he’s all that’s holding the First Order together, but he’s barely managing to keep himself together. He’s stressed out and exhausted, unable to step away from his work long enough to truly relax. Kylo Ren is intimately acquainted with the feeling of being overwhelmed by one’s responsibilities. Looking at Hux, he remembers a long-ago encounter that helped him escape that feeling once, for a little while. He’s certain he could do the same thing for Hux, if only Hux would let him.

• Decadence; Or, Five Times Hux Tempted Kylo Ren and One Time Ren Tempted Him (17k, 4/7 chapters)

Hux is horrified to learn the depths of the new Supreme Leader's asceticism, and so he personally sets out to convince him that there's nothing wrong with enjoying yourself from time to time--for the greater good of the First Order, of course. A little pleasure might go some way towards decreasing Ren's famous volatility, after all. Not that kind of pleasure, though. This isn't a seduction. (Yes, it is, but Hux is the one being seduced.)

• Moonlighting (11k)

When Hux decides to visit a famous red-light district in search of a little stress relief, he’s disappointed in the selection until a tall, broad stranger in a skirt and heels catches his eye. When he gets closer, he finds that the stranger isn’t a stranger at all--it’s Kylo Ren, Supreme Leader of the First Order, selling himself on a street corner. It must be some sort of undercover work to track down a resistance operative--surely that’s the only possible explanation. There’s no way Ren could be doing this just because he gets off on it… right?

• masters of the fucking universe (5.8k)

Kylo Ren, CEO of First Order Peacekeeping Solutions, plucks his top engineer, Armitage Hux, out of his lab and brings him along to a high-class fundraiser to help sell their newest innovation. Hux is just trying to keep up, and not give away the enormous crush he has on his boss--which is made much more difficult when Kylo decides he wants some company after the event.

-> I keep thinking about Moonlighting, I would safely put it in the top 10 of the hottest fics I have ever read (hottest to me personally of course). I will forever mourn that Decadence didn't get finished, but the 4 chapters we have are already incredible.

– flyting

• In A Crowd of Thousands (1.2k)

Hux recalls the time he met Ben Solo, unaware that Kylo remembers it too. “It was Endor Day,” Kylo realizes. He remembers those parades, distantly, through the veil of another life. A hot, cloudless summer day and a cheering crowd. “Yes,” Hux says. “I didn’t realize it at the time or I wouldn’t have-” he stops, shutting his mouth. “Wouldn’t what?” “I suppose I got rather into the spirit of things. I was twelve. It was warm and there was music, and everyone was so excited. Someone gave me a free iced chocolate. It was the best thing I’d ever tasted.”

• Breaking Down Like Fractions (6.9k, 2 chapters)

For the TFA-kink prompt: AU where Ben Solo never became Kylo Ren, but he's still the same man who *could* have become Kylo Ren. He's prone to fits of temper, he's very strong in the Force, and... he's a Jedi. He's developed a soft touch on people's minds (because Uncle Luke is so disappointed when he's mean to prisoners, although Uncle Luke is disappointed in him anyway) and he's the Resistance's interrogator of last resort. And then the Resistance captures a prize: General Hux of the First Order. He's building a base somewhere that can destroy an entire star system at once. And Ben is the only one who can find out where it is.

• Reputation (15k, 9 chapters)

Kylo finds out Hux is an omega. Functionally it makes no difference -- everybody in the FO takes hormone control -- but every so often medical deems fit to have someone go through a rut/heat. Alpha/omegas are uncommon enough that it doesn't present real disruptions. Kylo is excited. He's an alpha, and has never experienced being around an available omega. Omegas are supposed submissive, needy things -- according to Han's old romance novels and Snoke's gender essentialism 101, at least. And the glut of porn. Subjugating the general sounds appealing. It turns out heat makes Hux mean. He's aggressive, hostile, and doesn't seem to give a fuck about Kylo or his fancy dick.

-> Reputation has been on my wall list of fanfics I like since July 2021 and the author writes great (that's the end of the sentence, their writing is great)

– imperialhuxness

• Brighter Visions (14k)

Then: Free-wheeling arms runner Kylo Ren sells illicit kyber to a disgraced general with nothing left to lose. Now: The Emperor doesn't cope well with lateness from his best clandestine operative. – "Kylo’s chest clenches, and he pulls Hux closer. The Force is glowing again at the margin of his consciousness, something warm and golden and alive threatening to burst out of it. Thirty years of life, and he’s been three different people: the failed padawan, the misfit criminal, and the Emperor’s one-man death squad. Only the lattermost has been happy."

• Love, Your Crooked Neighbor (11k)

When Snoke assigned Hux to bring in his newest asset, Hux was expecting some everyday Coruscanti underworlder on a low-profile Core World. Predictable. Routine. What he gets is a burning compound on a nameless hunk of rock, a confused young pseudo-Sith, and oh, yeah. Feelings.

• Super Fade (8k)

After Ben returns to his hometown from a disastrous first semester of college, his dad attempts to revive one of their oldest father-son bonding activities: picking out New Year's fireworks. His going-places high school ex is the last person he expects to find on the other side of the counter. – Over a gray v-neck—not a button-down, what the hell— that bares his pale throat and prominent collar bones, the guy’s wearing a leather jacket. An enamel pride flag pin shines on his lapel. “Oh, my god,” Ben breathes. “Armitage?” What has to be Armitage fucking Hux looks him up and down. “How‘s Yale?” he says, and adds belatedly, “You may set your items on the table.”

-> Once again, Super Fade changed my life, it is so very memorable to me for personal reasons. Love, Your Crooked Neighbor is an extremely fun read also, not like funny but very enjoyable to me

– Kyluxtrashpit @kyluxtrashpit (who is still posting about them even though it's been years, thank you for your service, I haven't read for these two in a while but I'll swing by for your last fic)

• Floss Me (2k)

Hux, Kylo's boyfriend, is aghast to find out how rarely Kylo flosses (i.e. never) and he can't take it anymore, so he decides to take matters into his own hands. Kylo's mind, however, takes things in a different direction, and it turns out both of them enjoy the rather unexpected results.

• Aural (2.7k)

Hux fucks Kylo's ear. (Yeah you read that right)

• Monthly Reports (3.1k)

Kylo Ren's tantrums are expensive, and those extra expenses always complicate Hux's paperwork. Rebalancing the budget takes time, time that could be better spent doing something useful. So, of course, he devises a punishment for Ren.

-> Now those may sound a little... strange. Especially Aural. And it would be reasonable of you to think "ew I'm not reading that" but what is life if you never read fics that sound insane and are actually also very good? Huh? You can check out the rest of their works because they're also good, this is just the few I had downloaded on my phone. Floss Me is more normal and I am still a little obsessed with it <3

– notlikelybutpossible (all archive restricted!)

• the Fall Out Kylux series (148k, 3 works of about 50k each)

Inexperienced alpha Kylo Ren gets stranded on Hoth with reluctant omega Armitage Hux. Guess who’s going into heat. Guess who has to help him…

• My lonely heart calls (37k, 3 chapters)

Irreverent werewolf Kylo Ren meets repressed furry Armitage Hux. They're perfect for each other.

• the Dick in a box series (8.7k, 3 works)

In which Kylo Ren presents Hux with his dick. In a box.

• Once A-Pawn A Time (7.2k)

Hux has seen the mysterious man around a fair bit over recent months – he's hard to miss, with his height and build, not to mention the scar that runs all the way down one cheek. Hux is reasonably sure he’s living out of the battered Ford that he often leaves in the Walmart parking lot. But he's never come into the pawn shop before…

• Yours, desperately (6.7k)

Ren discovers Hux has a secret kink. And, being an emotionally fluent, boundary-respecting adult, decides his new purpose in life is to convince Hux to share…

• Holding out for a Hero (3.6k)

When Kylo Ren emerges from the waves before him, Armitage Hux is far more interested in his cock than, y'know, the fact that he's a centaur...

• Tie me down and use me up (2.1k)

"I just think that Kylo's massive cock deserves to be edged or used as a dildo for someone else's pleasure. Preferably with little to no regard for the pleasure or satisfaction of the man it belongs to." (@ProteanKylux, 28 July 2021, Twitter)

• Oil and fire (2k)

Kylo, a friendly liquid blob monster, encounters a human hiking through the forest who entrances him like a flame entrances a moth. He wants to touch.

• Soggy Biscuits (2k)

Kylo Ren was not prepared to deal with a very drunk, very uninhibited Hux bragging about how fast he can masturbate. But... he also wasn't prepared to just let him win.

-> I'm insane about all of those but especially the Fall Out Kylux series, Alpha Dog and Omegalomaniac lives in my brain still. I also remember clicking on the AO3 email for Soggy Biscuits <3 Once A-Pawn A Time is weird to read once Anakin becomes your blorbo as well but the concept charms me so much

– sigo

• Homecoming (13k)

“Ren, it’s midnight,” Hux sighed at his infuriating coworker. “Get to it.” “I may have informed my entire family previously that we were dating.”

• Whitecap Violence (5.2k)

When Kylo had first wanted to bring Hux along, Hux had protested. Bad enough that the Supreme Leader was always off galivanting planetside somewhere. The Chancellor should stay on Coruscant. Kylo would hear none of it, and here Hux was.

• The One with the Eggs (4.9k)

Hux turned on his heel, but hardly made it two steps before running straight into Kylo Ren. He knew his face betrayed his dismay. He didn’t have time for this.

-> Eggs are not everyone's thing but when they're yours it's really hard to find good fics, thankfully this fic exists. Homecoming was a kinda strange but fascinating read, by which I mean I read it once years ago and I still remember it pretty well, and Whitecap Violence is easily one of my fave titles I've ever seen

– solohux

• Screaming Colour (38k)

For as long as Hux can remember, he's been able to see everything in brilliant, vivid colour. His mother tells him that it means that he's got a soulmate somewhere in the galaxy who's waiting for him and little Hux is excited to think that his soulmate can see things in the amazing colours that he can. But one day, the colour begins to drain from Hux's world. (Soulmate AU where you see everything in perfect colour until your soulmate dies)

• What We're Made Of (13k, 3 chapters)

On the morning of your 5th birthday, you'll wake up with a new toy beside you, one that is made in the image of your destined soulmate. Young Ben has a little wooden General with orange hair and a woolly greatcoat that matches his little cap, whilst young Armitage has a soft plush of a Jedi, one with soft dark hair and two brown buttons for eyes. The two boys are happy with their new toys. Their families, however, are not. It shapes them.

• Emergency Consort (7.2k)

Supreme Leader Kylo Ren is close to sealing a deal with a highly influential council that’ll help sway the war in their favour. The only issue is that the council only deal with alphas who are mated as they believe that they’re much tamer and more level-headed this way. All Kylo needs to do is pretend to be mated whilst visiting the planet to sign the agreement. He seizes the opportunity to offer Hux a promotion in return for pretending to be his mate. Hux agrees, and their courting begins.

• Pander To The Prince (4.7)

Armitage Hux is a pillow prince, leaving it up to his Sugar Daddy, Kylo Ren, to do all of the work for him in the bedroom.

• The Sixth Drink Instinct (2.2k)

Drunk student Hux spots his hot professor in a bar and goes over to him.

-> What We're Made Of and Emergency Consort were some of my first Kylux fics I think and I have such a deep fondness for them! Also just the concept of What We're Made Of is incredible.

– sternfleck

• the Arcana Imperii series (56k, 9 works)

Based on the “Duel of the Fates” leaked alternate script for Episode 9.

• Nestful (5.5k)

Out of everyone in the First Order, only Kylo Ren knows the truth about Hux: the General is half alien...and entirely appealing. Or: Hux builds a nest out of pillows and clothes when it’s time for him to lay his eggs. Kylo wins his trust to enter the nest and give Hux the reward he deserves. For Kylux Positivity Week 2.0, Day 8. Prompt: “Wild Card."

• salt & he was still hungry (2.7k)

“I don’t see why it’s so crucial that I share this childhood experience of yours,” Armitage grumbles, cuddling Millicent closer even as he leans back into Ben’s arms. “We’re adults. We’re old enough to have children of our own, if we were so inclined. Surely there are better ways to spend our time than in surrendering to nostalgia.” Ben only hugs him tighter, one big arm around Armitage’s waist, while, with the other hand, he pulls a pillow into Armitage’s lap and rests the open picture book across it. Then, with a last kiss to Armitage’s temple, he begins to read. In the light of the moon, a little egg lay on a leaf. - Soft grown-up boyfriends Ben and Armitage cuddle in a blanket nest and enjoy Ben's favourite picture book together. At least, Ben enjoys it. Armie, on the other hand, has many thoughts about caterpillars, child development, and their romantic future.

-> The whole "salt-verse" thing is fascinating to me tbh. Remember what I said about egg fics being rare? Yeah, this is My Egg Fic™ for Kylux (and one of my egg fics of forever across everything I've ever read). Is it weird that I have one, yes, is the fic deserving of the spot it's been occupying rent-free in my brain for years, also yes. I hate to say this but Arcana Imperii is the vibes I wanted for the end of another Kylux fic lol.

And now, the actual list of fics! Some of those authors also wrote other fics (cough cough hollycomb) but if they're not on the list it's that I just never read them/found it easy to pick a favourite, not that I think they're bad!

• Dollars to Donuts by ktula (183k, 24 chapters)

Kylo just wants to ask Hux out on a date. That's all he wants. Sure, he's been closeted since he figured out he was gay, and he's never gone on a date with anybody before, and also Hux intimidates the hell out of him--but how bad could it possibly be? (It could be 'proposing a celibate fake marriage to the guy you've been in love with for two years so he can get his inheritance' bad, Kylo. That's how bad it could be.

-> Classic, I can't not include it but it's probably super popular and you might have seen it somewhere (I don't know I don't look at stats or talk to people). Personally not only did I like the fake dating (love that stuff) I also appreciated the author including a commentary at the end of chapters, it helped me Get the fic and it was cool.

• Ad Augustana per Sciencia by Star_flaming (157k, 12 chapters)

Hux prided himself on being a man who managed to have interests outside of the military. His newest interest; history so old that many thought it useless in the modern age. And he could have been quite content, reading articles and books on ancient cultures if it wasn't for Kylo Ren, who seemed to have made it his goal to inject himself into Hux's academic pursuits when he wasn't destroying the ship through his apparent self-destructive tendencies. Or: Academia brings two idiots together and builds a new regime

-> I never finished this fic but the worldbuilding is absolutely insane and I say that with all the love in my heart. The concept of space children makes me foam at the mouth it's so cool and I want to see that energy in canon SW so bad. Incredible. Also love when there's Ancient History <3

• In The Days Still Left by carefulben (154k, 23 chapters)

The instructions are clear, but following them will take more strength of nerves and willpower than either General Hux or Kylo Ren could have anticipated. With Starkiller Base destroyed, they are sent on a mission that will test their loyalties and bring things to light that may have been better off kept in the dark.

-> Add it to the pile of never finished fics I should really really finish. I remember it vaguely but I know it was cool and good.

• Reach Out and Touch Faith by for_autumn_i_am and ktula (146k, 10 chapters)

New Contacts (1): General A. Hux [Finalizer] - Kylo blinks. Sits up, and carefully presses the button. It’s—fuck, it’s a professional holo of him. Full colour, instead of the wavering blue of the hologram unit embedded in Snoke’s throne, and General Hux has—General Hux has red hair, and green-grey eyes, and he’s so focused, so settled. Like he knows what he wants. Like he knows how to get it.

-> Okay I'm going to be honest I read that one because of the title haha. It might even have introduced me to the song, but I'm not certain. Almost no memories of it but it absolutely cannot be bad, look at that summary, look at those authors, I just know it's good.

• The structural fabrications series by kyluxtrashcompactor (133k & 3 works, 40-50k per work)

Six months ago, Armitage Hux fabricated a fiancé, never expecting to have to drag him to a funeral in Georgia, pretending to be something they weren't. The problem was, Ben Solo was everything Hux had ever wanted. Ben Solo had hidden his love for his roommate for years, thinking that someone as perfect as Hux would never want a broken soldier like him. But he was wrong. Sometimes you have to tell a lie to find the truth.

-> This series was so.... yeah. If you don't want to Feel Things inside your heart right now you should keep it for later but it's great. I read the first fic, knew I couldn't handle the two others right then, and unfortunately didn't come back, but that first work was insane and incredible and a ride.

• Beauty Beneath (Beyond) by dallystrings (104k, 11 chapters)

“You know Ben, he’s a disaster when it comes to planning in advance,” Hux laughed lightly, dropping his hand to entwine his fingers in Ben’s. “I’m Hux, his boyfriend.” or, the one where Ben really doesn't want to go home, and Hux is just trying to be a better friend. or, or, the 2020 newly edited version of Beauty Beneath (2016)

-> I like fake/pretend relationships okay!! It might not be the single best I've ever read but it does the job and it does it well.

• Suit Porn by for_autumn_i_am (77k, 9 chapters)

Armitage Hux has worked tirelessly to become CEO of First Order Corp's UK office, however his counterpart in the States, Kylo Ren, is the most infuriating man with whom to exchange emails. When Hux is called to New York to meet with Ren, he encounters a delicious man in a suit, who wants to do unspeakable things to him. But when Hux walks into his meeting the next morning, he's in for a surprise and the beginning of a relationship that is far more than just business.

-> I had no memories of this one so I went to read it and I don't think it's present-me's jam anymore, but it sure delivers upon its premise if that sounds interesting to you!

• Sweet Home Arkanis by Gefionne and minzimpression (68k, 8 chapters)

Hux is engaged to the man of his dreams. There’s just one catch: he’s already married to his high school sweetheart, Ben Solo. Now he needs a divorce, and he needs it fast.

-> Do you think those cliché hallmark movies are entertaining if not very good? Well. Fanfic version, ie automatically more enjoyable because at least there's no weird sexism. I'm selling it all wrong, don't listen to me, it's just really good, I have great memories of that one.

• There's no escape from my authority by The_Marron (67k, 20 chapters)

Hux refuses to go to Snoke like a schoolboy waiting for punishment he did not deserve. Now he has two weeks until they reach the Supreme Leader's quarters to stage a coup and take Snoke out of the equation. To do that he will not only need his crew, but also the loyalty of his rival. Nobody said becoming an Emperor was easy and pleasant.

-> I only remember the title but it is a really cool title. I think it was good? That summary is certainly making me want to take another look at it

• All Hearts Come Home For Christmas by aaelandair (66k, 8 chapters)

"Do you want to come home with me and pretend to be my boyfriend for a week?" Hux stares at him incredulously. "What the actual fuck, Ren? No." - Kylo desperately needs a fake boyfriend for Christmas, so his family won't be disappointed in him once again. Hux would be the perfect candidate for the job, except for the part where he doesn't want to do it. Convincing him that this is actually a good idea should be easy, though. Right?

-> Aand some more fake/pretend relationship! This one is really good at that trope and a very fun read <3

• Status: It's Complicated by PangolinPirate and sunnywritesstuff (61k, 8 chapters)

Armitage Hux is a graduate student working hard to make ends meet. To ease the financial strain he offers tutoring lessons. Enter one Kylo Ren, an apparently spoiled rich kid whose struggling to pass his law classes and is in danger of loosing his considerable inheritance if he can't improve. Kylo has everything Hux wishes he had when he was an undergraduate: Money, connections, parents who gave a shit about his education. Kylo asks Hux to be his tutor and what started as a side gig for cash turns into feelings. At first, Hux is unimpressed with the spoiled man-child student, but slowly realizes he can’t hide from it anymore— Kylo Ren does something to him that no other person ever has before, and to hell if he won’t indulge in that.

-> Didn't finish that one either, I'm a fanfic magpie and AO3 is full of very shiny jewels, but the beginning was fun

• the Kylux Animal Welfare AU (Madame, That's Not A Hedgehog & co) by GenerallyHuxurious (57k & 11 works for the whole series, 21k & 7 chapters for the main fic)

Armitage Hux is an animal welfare officer with First Order Animal Rescue, one of the biggest animal charities in the world, he spends his days saving animals and his nights home alone with his three-legged rescue cat Millicent. Kylo Ren's mother helped him open a private wildlife clinic in the hope that he'd stop causing international incidents in the name of animal rights. Hux hasn't had a date in six years and Kylo's been trying to work out how to ask him out for the last four. Now he might have spotted his chance…

-> ASPEC HUX!!! This is not a drill!!!!! He's aspec!!!!! He's demi!!!! The plot is also immaculate obviously but aspec Hux!!!! It touches on animal abuse so be careful, I know the last chapter really shook me, but it stands out in my memory and I love it a whole lot. Aspec Hux also once again.

• Dire Oversight by ezlebe (54k, 7 chapters)

“Thvala has a long tradition of binding political alliances with marriage,” Captain Pforn says, looking up from the heretofore agreed contract and folding his hands over the data pad. He has a smile like what he said isn’t absolutely senseless, “It is the will of Sovereign Andeles that you and Prince Gheralt fulfill this aspect of the contract.”

-> Fake marriages my beloveds. I keep reccing fics with that trope but they're all fun!!

• On Bended Knee by rudbeckia (47k, 10 chapters)

Armitage Hux, just out of an unhealthy long term relationship with an older man, is on vacation. On his first night, the complete stranger from the next room proposes. The handsome complete stranger with shoulders that look like he could wrestle a ram and hair that would make a poet weep. Armitage says yes. That’s no basis for a lasting relationship. Is it?

-> Ohoho I am insane about that one. The start of their relationship. The development. Hux's ex. I won't spoil but there is Something in their relationship that is different from what you usually see in romance and it's great.

• Young Couple Arguing in IKEA, 2016 (Mixed Media) & First Love, Late Spring by hollycomb (7k, 38k & 3 chapters)

Ren drags Hux to IKEA and asks him what he thinks about cacti. Hux does his best to avoid a full nervous breakdown.

"Hux felt like he had nothing left to lose and ended up back at the apartment Ren shared with his cousin and her husband, indulging in what he assumed would be a reckless one night stand. It was reckless indeed, but Hux was still there three days and approximately nineteen fucks later." Ren's POV on bringing a lonely ginger criminal home and never wanting to let him go.

-> ALSO obsessed with that one. Obsessed obsessed. It hit me right in the feels and it was absolutely insane and I am in genuine love with it. You can read them in whichever order, I think I read First Love, Late Spring first? It comes first in in-universe chronological order but that doesn't really matter. BTW, if you have not, listen to First Love, Late Spring by Mitski, it is also an insane song that makes me feel shrimp emotions.

• Hotline Bling by minzimpression (37k, 4 chapters)

Hux wants a dick pic from his recent hook-up. Unfortunately, he texts the wrong number.

-> If I was serious-insane about the others I'm silly-insane about that one. It's very very fun to read, at least in my eyes.

• What we want by mssdare (37k, 7 chapters)

Kylo is doing Community Service in a state-run assisted living facility outside NYC. He hates his job, his life, and mostly--himself. One of the patients in the facility is old Colonel Hux. His son, Armitage, is the most infuriating, stuck up man Kylo has ever met in his life.

-> And back to more serious-insane. I think if you read all the fics that Resonate with me you can tell what's wrong with me. ALSO! ASPEC HUX!! Yeah I have to shout it from the rooftops because I love it. More aspec characters everywhere. I love his relationship to sexuality there.

• On the Waves by OneWhoSitsWithTurtles (34k, 7 chapters)

Armitage Hux is forced to join his father and step-mother on a 14 day cruise hosted for high society families to network and debut their children to the world. Now that Armitage is 25 years old he is expected to marry someone whose family will strengthen the Hux business and if by the end of the cruise Armitage isn’t engaged, he’s in trouble. Worse still is the fact that Armitage is gay and his father would disown him if he knew. Resigned to a miserable two weeks, Armitage is caught off guard when he catches the eye of Ben Solo, who is on the cruise with his own family. It doesn’t help that Ben is exactly his type and although Armitage tries, he can’t resist temptation as he and Ben become close. For two weeks their affection grows in secret with one question remaining: what happens when the cruise ends and their time together runs out?

-> The plot is straightforward, the fic is fun, there's some Rey and Phasma in there too if you like them!

• Something About Volcanoes by betts (28k, 5 chapters)

“Think about it.” Hux makes a grandiose, sweeping motion with his arm. “The drama. The chaos. The rumors. The only thing better than a destination wedding is a heartwarming coming-out story to take the spotlight away from your selfish loved ones and their horrid pursuit of emotional fulfillment. Then you wait a few months, and announce it was all just a phase and you’re in fact happily engaged to…I don’t know, one of those body pillow things.”

-> Yet more fake dating. I just love fake dating. They're assholes in this one and I love assholes.

• fingerprints smudging the stars by TheSpaceCoyote (21k, 2 chapters)

For years Hux has carried himself with the poise and power of an alpha, his true endotype hidden with the help of fake scents and powerful suppressants. But on the cusp of Starkiller's completion, something slips through the general's carefully crafted failsafes and threatens to undo everything he's built up over the years. Hux has never been one to accept help, but with an unexpected problem mounting—not to mention the interference of unpredictable alpha Kylo Ren—he might have to.

-> Dope title and I have very few memories of this one but it sounds like a neat omegaverse. I also trust the author to do words good

• The Wildflower Prince by PangolinPirate and solohux (21k, 4 chapters)

Armitage Hux is an omega, locked away in a tower until his alpha father can find use for him. His tower is deep in the enchanted forests and surrounded by an impenetrable circle of magic, so Hux lives a very lonely and quiet life. That is, until gifts begin appearing upon his balcony.

-> I really like omegaverse too! Sue me! This one is neat and simple and a great read, it has Rapunzel vibes and it's fun.

• Caim by Eiramma (20k)

Hux is stolen from his academy bunk late one night and is dumped on the frozen waste land that is Ilum along with a small handful of his other classmates. Despite never having dreamed a night of his life, on his first night on this frozen planet, Hux finds himself in the body of an angry padawan, Ben Solo. As his stay on Ilum continues, it becomes apparent that pair of them share some sort of deep connection forged through mysticism of the Force, that permits them spend their dreams in one another's waking lives, and Hux has no idea why. But with danger lurking around every snow covered tree, Hux begins to wonder if he will be able to live long enough to understand the mystery of their bond, never mind deal with the growing fondness for the other boy that has begun to bloom in his heart.

-> not on AO3 anymore but I have an epub file if someone's interested, just hit me up in private! I love love love this kind of dyad thing, and I have a fondness for teen!Kylux.

• the Galactic La Leche League series by gundamoocow (17k, 2 works)

Kylo Ren’s jaw hangs loosely and his eyes are steadfastly fixed on Hux’s chest. He hasn’t moved an inch since Hux unclasped his tunic hook by hook to reveal a tight, flattening undershirt that leaves little to the imagination. Hux shirks the tunic off and drapes it over a chair before pulling the undershirt over his head. Removing it is always a struggle, but he manages with enough grace for Ren not to notice. He is topless now, wearing only his boots and jodhpurs, standing awkwardly in his room while Ren appears frozen in time with his eyes glued to Hux’s torso, surprise plain on his face. Hux frowns. “Surely you were aware?” Ren shakes his head. “No,” he utters, his voice weak as if winded. “I had no idea.”

-> Now I know what you're thinking, what is this, why are you reccing this, etc. Well the fic is fun to read, and it's hard to find male lactation without mpreg or children in the picture but the idea has potential to be really hot, so. There. Cringe culture is dead, live a little and try a good lactation fic

• Family Values by SpookMouse (16k, 8 chapters)

“Alone on Thanksgiving? Mad at your dad? I am a 28 year old felon with no high school degree, and a dirty old van one year younger than me painted like Eddie Van Halen’s guitar. I can play anywhere between the ages of 20 and 29 depending on if I shave. I’m a line cook and work late nights at a bar. If you’d like to have me as your strictly platonic date for Thanksgiving, but have me pretend to be in a very long or serious relationship with you, to torment your family, I’m game.” Or, Hux brings Kylo home for the holidays.

-> I think the summary just sells that one on its own. Look at this. Incredible Kylo energy.

• Unknown Pleasures by gundamoocow and hexgoldyloins (16k, 7 chapters)

Kylo Ren and Armitage Hux are rival employees at First Order Engineering, a multi-disciplinary engineering company headed by the elusive CEO Snoke. For years, Kylo and Hux have been at each other's throats, vying for power and advancement within the aerospace division. An opportunity to have an audience with Snoke presents itself, but it involves forming an unlikely alliance and going undercover…to a BDSM sex club.

-> Also reread that one for the list and hmmm yeah it's good. The BDSM etiquette could be better but if you compare it to canon they're doing so well <3

• Nothing but a Flickering Flame by leviathanofthesky (14k, 7 chapters)

General Hux’s father visits the Finalizer after Snoke’s death to pay tribute to the newly crowned supreme leader. Unfortunately for Armitage, Kylo’s sudden interest in him and the fact that his shipment of suppressants seems to be lost in stars-know-where doesn’t help the situation at all.

-> Hmm, good old Brendol bashing <3

• Reptile Husbandry by koi_boi (13k)

Hux is an accomplished researcher who's having a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad time in the field. He stumbles into a cave filled with secrets and one very large, very curious snake. Hux gets fucked in more ways than one.

• There's a Desert in My Blood and a Storm in Your Eyes by frapandfurious (12k, 5 chapters)

Hux and Kylo have been on the road together for over a year. They're free and they're in love. Until a ghost from Hux's past finally catches up with them.

• Give Me a Shot to Remember by decotex (11k, 6 chapters)

Everyone on the Finalizer has at some point had to listen to the General and their resident Dark Lord's flirting. They are not subtle. Someone points out Kylo Ren's soft spot for a certain First Order general. Hux contemplates this over vodka. Feat. heavy drinking, a ship full of gossipers, and no subtlety whatsoever.

-> I found a fave song of mine in this fic. The last chapter was an Experience and I re-live it every time I listen to Goodbye to a World.

• Lapdog by Antique_Mango (11k)

“I’m willing to listen to what the Supreme Council has to say,” Ren continues like they are having a reasonable conversation, and not like Hux is half a moment away from losing every last bit of his hard-earned decorum, “as soon as you sit down.” “On your lap.” – After his fall from grace Hux is barely keeping it together, convinced that everyone wants him dead (himself included.) Kylo tries to change his mind.

-> Oh yeah baby, amplify those emotions! Make them feel things! More!!! I left a loonng comment on that one because it fascinated me so much.

• A Whisper In My Ear by Ellstra (10k)

A minute reaction of Hux’s inspires Ren to suggest adding some spice into their sex life. Hux isn’t entirely certain what to expect but he’s definitely on board.

• Young Men at the End of Everything by partialresonance (9k)

Kylo thinks he can get used to life in exile, so long as Hux is there to live it with him. But a random stroke of fate suddenly throws Hux's life into jeopardy, and Kylo has to turn to an unlikely source for help.

-> The title is great the old lady character is great it's a good read and pretty memorable for a 9k fic

• an insult to basic geometry by brawlite (7.4k)

It's not that Kylo wasn't trying to summon a demon; it's just that he didn't think it would actually work. He also didn't prepare himself for the hypothetical demon that he probably wasn't going to summon to be so damn hot. And now the demon is asking him what he wants -- and the only thing Kylo really seems to want is the demon himself. That's within the terms and conditions, right?

-> Dope title, check, demons, check, I follow the author on here and am slowly getting into other fandoms they've also written for, check. (no but for real when I saw their name looking for Venom fic it felt like seeing an old friend, great surprise)

• Pheromones by EmberSH (6.2k)

After a blind date gone wrong all Hux wants is to have a drink and find a distraction for the evening; Best case scenario someone who'll treat him a little rough. Kylo Ren is so much more than that.

-> This was the hottest fic I'd ever read for a looong time years ago. Genuinely, it completely blew my mind when I was like 14. The follow up was less fun because I am Not a noncon person and I really really wasn't back then but it's also good. The fic has vampires, go read it if you like vampires.

• silk & heat by surrenderer (5.2k)

When Ben gets home, Armitage has some exciting plans for the rest of their day together. For Year of Kylux's "Omegaverse" week!

• A Decent Proposal by PaperPrince (5k, 5 chapters)

Hux is very happy not being in a relationship with his roommate and best friend Kylo Ren. But when Kylo faces deportation, they find themselves re-evaluating their co-dependent lifestyle. What is marriage really? Two people who is on the cruise the rest of their lives together. So what difference does it make if you take sex away from the equation?

-> ASPEC KYLO!!!! Not the best writing in the entire world, but the concept and aspec Kylo got me.

• Botanical Exercises by need_more_meta (3.9k)

Hux finds a flower on his bed. Then another one. And another one. For Kylux Positivity Week 3.0, Prompt: “Flower Language” with a dash of “Oh No He’s Hot.”

-> It reminds me of Dites-le avec des fleurs <3

• When Christmas Comes by Pizzzazlut (3.6k)

"Kylo bit his lip as he tried not to show Hux how much that simple touch was already affecting him. Because an Alpha shouldn’t want this. An Alpha should never crave for his sweet albeit feisty Omega to fuck him into submission like this, to make him beg for more with each delicious thrust." Or the one where Alpha Kylo bottoms for his lovely Omega.

-> People who do fun stuff with A/B/O dynamics are galaxy brained and so very right and I love them.

• What Couples Do by Mesmeret (3.4k)

Kylo likes matching with Hux. At first it’s socks but they gradually figure out ways to share things together that keep them company when the other is away. My contribution for the Soft Issue of the Kylux Zine Project.

• How Not To Train Your Not-Sith Enemy by humane (3.1k)

"Forgive me, master." Hux murmured, head bowed in shame, "I feel it again. The pull from the dark. It tempts me more each time." Luke arched a single bushy eyebrow. You? Tempted? it seemed to say. "It's Kylo Ren." Hux admitted. Sympathy and profound understanding blossomed on Luke's face, the likes of which could only be observed in individuals that had personally experienced the unique brand of disaster that was Kylo Ren. "Are you tempted by his chaos?" he prompted. "His unbridled power? His seeming freedom? None of those are the way of the force." Hux frowned, puzzled. "No." he said, "I'm just tempted to decapitate him." Or: In which Hux is an EXTREMELY uptight jedi knight and Kylo is the not-sith that gives Hux aneurisms with the sheer blazing power of his incompetence.

-> I don't know how well this meshes with prequels lore, I read it back when I didn't care about anything beyond the sequels, but the premise is great

• Blood, Bitemarks, and Stupid, Stupid Love by TheSilentUnderworld (3k)

Being roomates with an annoying Alpha Werewolf was fine. Until he started messing with Hux's mail.

-> Werewolf x vampire <3 <3 <3

• I'll Be the Sun, You Be the Moon by need_more_meta (2.1k)

Chancellor Hux is preparing for a ball. He enlists Ren’s help. For Kylux Positivity Week 3.0, Prompt: “Put It on Hux | Put It on Kylo.” For Year of Kylux, Prompt: “Duel of the Fates Timeline.”

• Sweet Redolence by Jakathine (2k)

What happens when the desire to best your opponent turns into a desire to bed them instead…and then fate pushes you together rather Forcefully.

• Rabid Curs by Potboy (1.9k)

In which Kylo, all alone in the First Order with a master who mistreats him, goes to the wrong man for comfort. Unfortunately Armitage Hux is all he's got, and he's not a very comforting person. They do their best - it's all they can do.

• Dirty White Boots by BlackHellKitty (1.6k)

A Kylux-story based on the song "Dirty White Boots" from Lenny Kravitz. Kylo and Hux do some roleplay sometimes. Just pure PWP without any kind of big story. :3

-> The reasond Dirty White Boots is a Kylux song to me

• Come Morning by elfriniol (1.5k)

True, Kylo liked Hux. A lot. He couldn't imagine his life without talking to him about Star Wars trivia and offering judgmental commentary for shows they occasionally skimmed through on Netflix. Or going out for drinks. But if Hux wanted something else – that proverbial, dreaded more – Kylo wasn't sure of himself.

-> ASPEC KYLO!!! Oh how I love it when they're aspec.

• After by Davechicken (1.1k)

Aftercare, and emotions.

• Living in Close Proximity in Case of Sudden Yet Inevitable Betrayal by 5ofSpades (874 words, 9 chapters, drawings)

In which the Supreme Leader gets himself two ginger roommates.

-> This. Is not a fic. It's drawings and I cried at the end like a BABY. The artist's art style is impeccable, it inspired me a whole lot back when I 'read' it.

And this is IT folks! I didn't @ anyone (except Kyluxtrashpit) because I only know a few authors' tumblrs and I didn't want to discriminate, plus the fandom is pretty old and I would assume most of them have moved on or are inactive. If you know that someone on the list would like to be tagged don't hesitate to do it/tell me though, those fics all mean(t) a lot to me!

Hope the list is good & you, the reader, find something new and interesting to read! I really don't know which fics are considered popular or good or whatever, I don't talk to people usually. Okay bye bye thank you for reading <3

[sokkas-first-fangirl]

I have a question based on something you said in response to a comment from the latest chapter of Luminous. Hypothetically, if Irma’s Sheikah heritage was uncovered (say in an Age of Calamity timeline) would her biological family have been discovered? Would it by chance be this universe’s version of Lianna and her ilk?

Genuinely, thank you for this question, because I'm having so much fun rambling about Irma and her Sheikah heritage ✨

Now, let's get into it!

Even if Irma's Sheikah heritage was discovered pre-Calamity, figuring out who her bio family is would be a harder task. After all, there's no real evidence of who they were. Pre-Calamity there'd be a bit of a witch-hunt among the more devout (and/or fanatical) Sheikah to find them and demand answers, even if Irma herself doesn't actually want to find them. (Although, with that revelation, some members of the tribe might begin to put gossip and dates together, maybe begin to notice certain physical traits, and begin to piece together who her family was.) It's unlikely they would have come forward at all, unless Link was already proclaimed as Hylia's Chosen Hero.

If it's Age of Calamity/Pre-Calamity (in which case, everyone involved with Irma is obviously alive, Irma herself is alive and Link knows his mother) then there's a chance they'd take the risk to try and lay a claim on Link (and mostly just him) for the status boost. In which case, they'd try to claim they didn't know about Irma and her abandonment, and they'd be forced to try and play nice with Irma. (And she's not buying it)

Some members of the family would want to keep quiet no matter what for fear of backlash and the reaction of the tribe. In this 'verse, the Sheikah are sworn to guide and protect Hylia's Chosen, just as they are with the Blood of the Goddess. Who wants to admit that their family abandoned Link's mother? Who wants to admit that, if not for them, Link could have been raised among the Sheikah? The tribe's pride and joy would have skyrocketed if Hylia's Chosen was considered "one of them." It would have been a huge symbol of hope for them. (Which would be even more pressure on Link, sorry to Link and his anxiety)

Others would want to take the risk, chasing after that clout and status. (Which would backfire terribly)

It wouldn't be Lianna, but they'd certainly be similar people to her. Even if they didn't know about Irma's abandonment, I see her Sheikah relatives being terrible snobs; proud, narrow-minded and unfortunately, passing that terrible mindset down through the generations until someone manages to break that cycle of abuse. There's good people among the family, but they're pressured into keeping silent and doing what's "best for the family." Even if they didn't know about Irma's abandonment, they're not people that Irma would want to associate with or have anywhere near her children.

The survivors and descendants a lot more likely to come forward post-Calamity, when everything about Irma's birth is even more muddled than it already was and Link's memories of her are so few. They'd still be in for a nasty surprise, because Link wouldn't be happy to find them. He'd be absolutely furious. Link loved (and still loves) Irma so much; even though these descendants wouldn't have anything to do with Irma's abandonment (and a lot of the original family members would have died in the Calamity), he'd have no patience for them. And if/when they tried to pull the "family" card, he'd be so insulted. He's already got a family, thanks very much and child abandoners do not make the cut.

Now, if they were genuinely oblivious about Irma's existence, that would be another matter. Then Link would at least give them the time of day and Irma would be curious about them. Then certain members of the tribe wouldn't be out for blood and there'd be a lot more sympathy and a sense of tragedy.

But honestly? They were responsible for her abandonment.

*plays "The Ballad of Lucy Gray Baird" on repeat and thinks about Irma* Anyway, I love her a normal amount, can't you tell?

[lunapaper]

SCANDAL’s latest single ‘Plum’ is definitely as sweet as it sounds. 

The iconic J-rock girl band deliver a rather upbeat and infectious ode to heartbreak, feeling very 2000s with its sparkling and super-glossy groove. 

When translated, the lyrics are oddly heartfelt and delightfully kooky, making a discarded tissue metaphor feel strangely poetic and relatable. References to blood, hair and skin, entwined with a desperate need to be loved, also offer a charmingly human element into the mix. 

Click the link and read the lyrics in the YouTube comments for yourself! (◠‿◠✿)

SCANDAL’s new album, LUMINOUS, is out now. 

- Bianca B. 

[reuska]

Who’s Paimon - a theory

I’ll just drop my latest theory here. (Contains Sumeru Archon Quest spoilers)

We’ve all been wondering who Paimon really is pretty much from the start. The most popular theory is that she is somehow connected to the Unknown God - if not said god herself. That can still happen.

But.

Paimon has a demon name, just like the Archons. But why? There is literally no ingame logical reason why just the gods who ever got the archon job should accidentally bear names of demons UNLESS it’s part of a hint by Hoyolab. Which would mean that Paimon should be associated with them.

But how?

Before the Sumeru Archon Quest there was no possible way to connect Paimon and archons but now there is.

In short, we’ve learned that everything we’ve been told about Teyvat so far, including direct memories of characters, is NOT 100% secure. It’s possible that historical events unfolded differently and then someone meddled with Irminsul and erased these events from the world’s memory.

Now remember what Rukkhadevatta said about how the Forbidden Knowledge suddenly appeared in her mind? She came to Irminsul and felt sudden pain in her head and boom, there it was. I haven’t seen anyone tackle this part yet so let me share what I think:

I think someone waited there for Rukk, ambushed her and forcibly entered her mind in order to erase a knowledge from Irminsul. That someone was a being capable of carrying the Forbidden Knowledge (= Celestial entity) and this intrusion left a stain of said knowledge in her mind causing all the followup problems.

Now what would they want to erase?

You get it, they erased memories of Paimon.

Since she apparently is a being of this world (doesn’t remember Rukkhadevatta after her erasure), erasing memories of herself could get her into the state she is now. She knows a lot, but she has no roots, no history.

And she shares the demonic name hint with the archons. Where does that lead?

What if Paimon used to be an Archon as well...?

The dimension of a chessboard is EIGHT after all.

But Archon of what? Of which place?

My wild guess here is that Khaenri’ah maybe used to have their own archon after all. And possibly even their own signature element (Light offers itself here). Whatever Khaenri’ah did led to the cataclysm and... punishment for their Archon, a complete erasure?

Na-ah. Not so complete. There should be four beings from outside of Teyvat who would not be affected by the erasure. People speculate the first one was the original god of Teyvat, the Primordial One as mentioned in Before Sun and Moon (history book from Enkanomiya).

Who was the second one? “Second Throne of the Heavens”, the one who descended into Teyvat and defeated the Primordial One and is probably the current ruler of Celestia. Also could be our corrupted princess from the Battlepass video.

We know the fourth being which is the Traveler (as of why the other sibling is recorded as “of this world”, I have NO idea yet).

So who would be the third one in this theory?

The second heir, the brother of the corrupted princess, the one who came to save her and find the Pearl.

If the corrupted princess is the Sustainer of Heavenly Principles (or her boss, who knows), who is the brother?

Someone who would remember and recognize Paimon...

Rings any bells?

There is one character connected to Khaenri’ah who only started to talk to the Traveler after giving a LONG look to Paimon.

Now, the theory that Daisleif is the Prince and the Sustainer is his sister is quite old and is not mine (I first saw it in comments on YT). The person based their speculation on the fact that Dainsleif might not be speaking about Lumine at the end of the Teyvat Story Chapter Preview video.

“Prove that you’re worthier than I to rescue her.”

People long assumed (and some still assume) Dain was talking about Lumine because Aether was presented as the Traveler in said video. But maybe we’ve been given Aether as the “main” Traveler on purpose so this big hint from Dain would remain hidden until the final chapter of Genshin so we could look back and say “OH NO! THEY SAID IT RIGHT AT THE BEGINNING. IT WAS RIGHT THERE!”

Also we’ve learned since then that the Abyss sibling (in this case Lumine) is not brainwashed and doesn’t really appear to be in the need of rescuing. It’s the princess who needs help. Also Dain is regularly telling us about everyone in his Collected Miscellanies -and he says this in Nahida’s:

Admittedly, this could go either way for him (of this world or not) but he sounds like he has the knowledge only those “not under this world’s control” can discover.

Anyway, back then in Angel’s Share I noticed right away that Dain recognized Paimon and I’ve been trying to come up with a possible theory explaining why. People speculated Dain might’ve been a chibi floating companion at first too and there were several funny pictures with this theme. But the theory I’m presenting today is finally something that does fit in with this story more seriously in my eyes.

There are still many questions and holes. Most notably, why does Dain have the star shaped pupil like presumably all native Khaenri’ah citizens? Unless it’s a symbol of the celestial curse, I don’t know. But it does align with Paimon and her Star theme, hinting she and Khaenri’ah might be connected.

Paimon might not be some forgotten archon but Dain recognized her and the Abyss sibling didn’t seem to (if they are of this world and thus influenced by Irminsul, they would not remember). In the conversation between Lumine and Enjou, Enjou said that the Traveler’s companion is not as interesting as Lumine’s was (presumably Dainsleif). Also hints at no memory of Paimon.

Anyway, this wraps up my thoughts. It’s just a theory but I’m pretty confident in these points at least:

Rukkhadevata was assaulted when guarding Irminsul and the Forbidden Knowledge was a result.

Dainsleif recognized Paimon and probably knows more about her than she does.

Thanks for reading through this :D

[artezfashiondesignarnhem]

Posted @withregram • @notjustalabel

Monk + Punk = Ponks: Ponk is a fabricated term @killlphil / Philipp Kern has come up with to name his latest collection, with which he graduated from @artezfashiondesignarnhem but also to describe a kind of human being that comes from an artificial womb. These human beings, free from karma and family influences, do not feel the need to follow society’s history, language, concepts and values. They are completely free in thoughts and feelings, radiate high vibrational and luminous energy. They also have the potential of radical condensation, rebellion, provocation and chaos. The fusion of both polarizing aspects creates their name, Ponk. With this collection, Philipp comments on society’s need to categorize everything and on his desire to become someone free of dullness and hardness, such as Ponks, who express their unrestricted potential though their clothing, if they choose to wear such.

[spacetimewithstuartgary]

FAST reveals unprecedented details of the Milky Way Many bright stars gather in the night sky and form a Milky Way across the sky. It is our home galaxy in the vast universe, however, the structure and composition of the Milky Way are mysterious yet. The vast interstellar space between the billions of stars is not empty, but filled with tenuous interstellar medium. The diffuse hydrogen gas radiates a spectral line with a frequency of around 1420 MHz. Some dense hydrogen atoms gather to form clouds of molecular hydrogen, and newly-born stars are formed in the dense cores; young and bright stars can ionize the surrounding gas. Stars evolve from birth to death, and some eventually explode as a supernova, producing a remnant and a pulsar. The shock waves by the supernova explosion compress the interstellar gas and accelerate electrons to nearly the speed of light. These high-speed electrons cycle in the interstellar magnetic field, radiating faint radio waves. Such Galactic interstellar medium is the subject for astronomers to explore since it is fundamental for the birth and death of so many stars. The Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical Telescope (FAST) built by China is the most sensitive single-dish radio telescope in the world. Because it is equipped with a highly sensitive L-band 19-beam cryogenic receiver, making it an excellent instrument for hunting pulsars and exploring the Galactic interstellar medium. The team led by chief professor JinLin Han made ingenious design for the Galactic Plane Pulsar Snapshot (GPPS) survey, and has found more than 500 new faint pulsars, one order of magnitude fainter than the previous known pulsars. During the searching observations for pulsars, they simultaneously recorded the spectral line data, characterized by high sensitivity, high spectral resolution and high spatial resolution, which therefore an extremely valuable resource for studying the structure of the Milky Way Galaxy and the interstellar ecological cycle. They recently completed the processing of the spectral line data, and published the latest results of atomic and ionized gas, magnetic fields and radio radiation in interstellar space in the Milky Way. In its first data release, FAST detected the sky distribution of neutral hydrogen (HI) gas in 88 square degrees between the Galactic longitude of 33° to 55° and the Galactic latitude of ±2°. Though the fine calibration is still under way, the results available are already the most sensitive for detection of HI gas clouds to date, showing unprecedented detail about the distribution of HI gas. As commented by John M. Dickey, emeritus professor at the University of Tasmania in Australia and the University of Minnesota in the United States, "…the improvement in angular resolution and sensitivity over all previous surveys is impressive," "…publication of this first paper on the GPPS HI survey is a landmark accomplishment, worthy of celebration and international attention." The ionized gas of interstellar space is the last major component of the Milky Way that remains unexplored in detail. The team processed the hydrogen radio recombination lines (RRL) in the GPPS spectral line data in the same sky area as the HI data, revealing luminous regions ionized by bright stars and diffuse ionized gas (DIG) of unknown origin. The data are indispensable for the studies of the ecological cycle of gas and star formation in the Milky Way. As commented by Dr. Dana S. Balser, a scientist at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory, "This GPPS RRL survey is the most sensitive survey to date and has sufficient angular resolution to separate DIG emission from HII regions...Large single-dish telescopes such as the FAST are the best to probe the DIG, the last major component of the Milky Way Galaxy to be well characterized.” The Galactic magnetic fields which permeate the interstellar medium of the whole galaxy are extremely difficult to measure. The team relied on the sensitivity of FAST to measure polarization and Faraday rotation of 134 faint pulsars in the Galactic halo, and found that the magnetic field strength in the Galactic halo is about 2 microgauss. Newly determined Faraday rotation measure data from the GPPS survey gives evidence for the magnetic field reversals along the spiral arms in farther regions of the Milky Way. Without FAST, the interstellar magnetic field in such a wide region would be never detected. The team also tested the scanning observations by FAST for radio continuum radiation of our Galaxy in an area of 5°× 7° in the sky. The results confirm that two large faint radio-emission structures (G203.1+6.6 and G206.7+5.9) as being shell-type supernova remnants, one of which is produced by supernova explosion very close to the Sun at only about 1,400 light-years. "The sensitive FAST observations can reveal unprecedented details of the Milky Way," said Jing Yipeng, an academician of Chinese Academy of Sciences at Shanghai Jiao Tong University. “The databases of neutral hydrogen and ionized hydrogen published by these papers are valuable resources for astronomers over the world.” TOP IMAGE....The HI column density map integrated over the velocity range of -150 km/s to +150 km/s. LOWER IMAGE....Velocity-integrated intensity maps of the Hnα RRLs recorded in a piggyback mode in the FAST GPPS survey. The velocity range for the integration is from -40 km/s to 120 km/s. CREDIT ©Science China Press

[flapperdame16]

I was never into it!!

Popular tv/ movies/ music from the early/ mid 2000s- early 2010s I never got into.

They were popular with kids from my generation: Elementary school years (2001-2007) Middle school (2007- 2010) High school (2010-2014)

Harry Potter

That's So Raven

Camp Rock

The Jonas Brothers

The Twilight Saga

The Hunger Games

Sonny with a Chance/ So Random

Shake it Up

Kung Foo Panda

One Direction

Selena Gomez

Demi Lovato

Justin Bieber

My Chemical Romance

FANDOMS I WAS INTO FOR A SPELL/ short while BUT QUIT

Hannah Montana (and Miley Cyrus as a singer)- My best friend was a fan, so I got on the band wagon too. My Dad put his foot down when the nude pictures came out, my sister and I never watched the show again. A classic example of yearning to fit in, I'll like it to.

Taylor Swift- I was into Fearless and Speak Now, even bought Red, but I quit soon after that, barely even listened to Red (played it 2 or 3 times, just never played it again, then got rid of it) . She sucks.

Zoey 101- My grandfather once made a comment the show was stupid, my mother was never thrilled my sister and I watched the show, but dealt with it, until Jamie Lynn's pregnancy. That was the point at which we were forbidden to watch it.

The Lumineers- While I will always love their songs Scotland and My Eyes (THE REIGN CONNECTION), this group actually is annoying. I attempted to listen to their latest album Brightside, and holy hell it was effin' irritating. Their song Birthday- EFF NO, AWFUL. I actually owned their sophomore album, Cleopatra, but got rid of it.

[a-yarn-of-purple-prose]

This is supposed to be my rounding up post for @justleaveacommentfest but I'm cheating because I'm making it into...

Chasm Delving Highlight Reel: Special Just Leave a Comment Edition

At this point I should be real and say that I almost always leave comments. It's just a matter of having the energy but, as any of the authors I follow could tell you, I'm actually your weirdly joyful recurring commenter. I'll leave you sincere emoji hearts and "Thank you for writing!" and several "I love this so muuuuch!" or comments about how you made me cry (it's true, y'all make me cry and laugh and yelp.)

No regrets at all, though the comment bot stuff had me rethink my approach to sound a little more like I was actually reading.

I say this so you'll understand that while I didn't rack up numbers on the comment fest, that was because I've commented on most of the fics that are in my bookmarks. I needed new stuff and there was not enough time on the week to read everything I wanted.

General numbers are: 12 comments on 10 fics (one was updating daily and yes I did the thing.)

But I read a bit and found some good stuff! Which led me to the thought "why not make those into recs as well?" After all, it's been a while.

Since I know how wordy I get, I'll put the rest behind the cut. Click for some sweet sweet Genshin Impact recs!

On the 10th the prompt was old fics and new fics.

Despite the site issues, I actually managed to leave a comment on a new fic!

If They Could Talk Reasonably, They Would've By Now, by FollowerofMercy

Rated: Teen and Up

Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply

Characters: Diluc, Kaeya, and Lumine (to save the day) with a cameo by Venti

Ships: gen fic

General vibe: it's a reconciliation fic, but starts with a fist-fight

Trigger warning: none so far

Yeah, yeah, I know most of you prefer reconciliation fics to be about the guys being forced to work together with maybe a side of hurt/comfort, but this fic feels real in a way that'll appeal to anyone with siblings.

The dialogue is fire and Lumine is a marvelous goblin. Also Venti does a sneaky thing, which is something I always approve.

For the 11th the theme was Old, New and under 2k.

Let's start with the new ones (I literally opened the tag and browsed for something that caught my eye.)

the treehouse by rheadaholyc

Rated: General audiences

Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply

Characters: Kaeya & Diluc & Klee with cameos by Albedo and Kaveh

Ships: gen fic

General vibe: the softest fluff

Trigger warning: none

Kaeya promises a treehouse to Klee. Guess where? The result is the cutest little piece of fluff.

This fic was under 2k when it was posted originally, but we sorta egged the author on and now it's a 3 chapter (no regrets at all, I love all of it.) You should read it if you need to soothe your soul.

Work in Progress by echoelbo.

Rated: General audiences

Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply

Characters: Alhaitham, Cyno and assorted Sumeru characters

Ship: Alhaitham/Cyno

General vibe: crack taken seriously

Trigger warning: none

Alhaitham/Cyno fake dating fic, mostly played for comedy (or is it?) Since it's very short I won't spoil you by saying anything else about it. Short and funny is a perfect combo, isn't it?

For old I cheated :)

A new chapter of Paper, Glass, Steel, and Bone [or, The Tensile Strength of Tenacity] by kawree dropped on the 12th and of course I had to read it and comment.

I keep telling everyone to read this fic with mixed results (the rarepair experience after all), but if you want a big cup of Kaeya to go with his cameo in the current event, this fic is what you're looking for.

There's so much lovely banter! The first chapter is a charmer, but I really love that "dinner with the old timers" scene later on (also the hair-brushing one, but all kinds of qpr things make me go weak on the knees) (the thing about the dinner scene is that it's got good dialogue, emotional cues and *throws glitter* drama) and the dialogue in this latest chapter. Ugh, feelings.

The 12th was for AUs so I get to rec the infuriating smart people AU Chiluc fic! Yay!

Edit: I found out the author would rather I don't rec them, so I'm removing this link because I'm too much of a sinner for them.

I also managed to read one of those fics that had been lingering on my Read Later.

It’s like Alice in Wonderland but after falling through a rabbit hole instead of anthropomorphic creatures, card soldiers, and hookah-smoking caterpillars, you get gay smut by Grymmeoir

Rated: Mature (there is sex at the very end of it) (just saying because the rest of the fic is pretty much teen)

Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply

Characters: Childe, Zhongli, Aether, Lumine, cameos by everyone you can imagine

Ships: Childe/Zhongli unless you're the sort that would say this is most certainly Zhongli/Childe ^^

General vibe: absolute crack

Trigger warning: none, unless you react really badly to second-hand embarrassment because Oh Boy

This is an Actor AU Childe/Zhongli thing that is kinda of a fusion with a webnovel that I haven't actually read. It's very funny and was a great thing to read while a cyclone raged outside (we get Weather over here in the bog) (I swear everything's fine.)

When I say this is crack you have to believe me. This fic is about a man that is so fucking oblivious he thinks shipping himself with someone else has nothing to do with real feelings. And let's not talk about Zhongli. 100% proof crack. Fun to read though.

The 13th was for rarepairs, which is a conceptual issue for me in this fandom.

There are two kinds of ships in Genshin: the ones with a whole bunch of fics of all kinds and the ones with 20 smut fics to their name. I'm not very much into smut :/ So I'd like you all to pretend Chiscara is a rarepair. Okay? Okay.

missing missive by childenator3000

Rated: Teen and up

Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply

Characters: Childe, Wanderer (I won't call babygirl Scaramouche regardless of the status of his AO3 tag), Zhongli, Xiao

Ships: Childe/Wanderer, blink and you'll miss it Xiao/Zhongli

General vibe: sweet angsty fluff. What, it makes sense if you think about the feeling.

Trigger warning: none

A sweet little fic about finding out someone was in love with you hundreds of years ago (and might still be?) and/or seeing your love letter in a museum. Very much canon noncompliant as every single shippy fic is, yes, but also because of making stuff up about post-canon. Perfectly nice stuff, though. And, also, very importantly, about IMMORTALS IN LOVE. Big bold letters because that's my absolute favorite romance trope (yes, I'm the audience for all those xianxia dramas about reincarnation and eternal pining.)

The 14th was for trying something new...

... but I'll be real here and say that this was the day that I found this trove of short Kaeluc recs, which is the very opposite of something new.

just say yes by parahelios

Rated: Teen and up

Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply

Characters: Diluc, Kaeya, Lisa

Ships: Diluc/Kaeya

General vibe: sweet, very sweet

Trigger warning: maybe alcohol, but it's not very present.

Short marriage proposal fic with a little miscommunication. Extremely cute.

Three years apart by Pas_Cal

Rated: General audiences

Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply

Characters: Diluc, Kaeya

Ships: Diluc/Kaeya

General vibe: yummy angst

Trigger warning: none

Diluc/Kaeya angsty reconciliation but make it a messy kabedon thing.

Then I felt bad for doing the opposite of the prompt and decided to read a rarepair from one of the characters I don't usually ship, in this case the Wanderer.

(please ignore the fact that this list has another Wanderer ship fic. I generally headcanon babygirl as aroace for obvious reasons.)

Best choice I could have made, since I found a fic that made me stay awake past bedtime (best kind of fic).

appleseed by moonbell (snowdrops)

Rated: Teen and up

Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply

Characters: Kaveh, Wanderer, cameos by Alhaitham, Cyno, Tighnari and Nahida

Ships: Kaveh/Wanderer

General vibe: fragile build up of trust, beautifully rendered

Trigger warning: none

This fic is tagged as relationship study, but it's more like a character study of both of them, together and alone. The author here does this spectacular thing, managing to write an one-shot that reads like 50 chapters of slow burn.

The relationship develops in this slow, gentle way and the prose is absolutely beautiful. Seriously, this story is constructed like well-made lace in cobweb weight yarn.

(Additionally, if you are into reading people's thoughts about their writing, the author has a whole site with a bunch of commentary linked at the end notes. A real treat if you are also the sort of person that would be suffering in Haravatat.)

That's it for today! I swear I'll get around making a true Chasm Delving Highlight Reel some other day, the recs are piling up here.

And, if you have no idea what the hell I'm talking about, here's the link to my other Genshin Impact recs. Enjoy!

[alexanderlightweight]

Can we get some some more Trueblood heir Alec for writing wendsday?

How is everbody doing? I hope that this week will be less stressful for you than the last!

Hey anon, i went with star eater which is the alec trueblood sentient shadow au. i hope you enjoy it and that this verse worked for you!

Thank you so much for asking! the week was less stressful but more busy but i'm slowly catching up on all the things i'm behind on! (writing and laundry and i need to thaw some chicken)

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Saeth: doing alright. Really sore and tired. Our wrist is killing us because host got into on tumblr (rping as if Pokémon is real) and killed our hands lmao (I’m plural and not the host of our system)

*they've also been playing the new zelda game and finally passed out after refusing to sleep so they could keep playing - lumine

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Alec stares at his little sister and his something-of-a-younger-brother Jace and wonders exactly where everything went wrong. It’s one of the rare times that Alec gets to see them both and while he’s still getting used to Jace, he likes the other boy well enough.  Or at least, he does when he’s not encouraging Izzy to break the rules and be stupid.

“We’re not doing that.” Alec says, interrupting Jace’s latest attempt to form a plan. A plan that Alec already knows wouldn’t work. “Mother left us here with the understanding that we are mature enough to not cause problems or get ourselves into trouble. Are we not mature enough?” Alec gives them both the deadpan stare he’s seen Ragnor give to idiots and is gratified when they shuffle nervously.

“But hermano—” Izzy whines and Alec’s noticed that she only ever calls him that when she wants something, “LA is so boring compared to New York. We just want to see if the demons are different!”

“It’s daytime. The only demons you could hunt are in the sewers. I didn’t know you were so interested in sewer monitoring.” Alec pretends to brighten up and he starts to tap into his tablet when Izzy shrieks and tries to grab it from him.

Alec’s genuinely surprised.

Not many people dare to touch him and certainly not in anger, so it’s with baffled confusion that he watches his shadows pluck Izzy up and deposit her back in her chair.

“That was rude.” Alec comments, because he’s not sure what else to say. “I didn’t realize you were still a toddler, Izzy.” Because he honestly doesn’t remember having to deal with this level of entitlement since Izzy was two and refusing to understand what ‘no’ meant.

“I’m bored and you’re such a dull blade, Alec!” Izzy complains and she huffs and crosses her arms, “Jace and I agreed we were going to have fun!”

“Well, I didn’t agree to that, and this is going to be my Institute.” Alec reminds her, because it is and he’s not about to risk getting what he wants because his baby sister wants to act like a baby. “The portal to Idris is still open, you can always leave.”

Alec nods decisively and says nothing, even when Izzy’s face scrunches up and she sniffles or Jace sends him a dark, admonishing look. Izzy and Jace get to do whatever they want in LA, but this isn’t LA and Alec isn’t that nice. Ragnor’s taught him all about consequences and Alec’s not going to be paying the price for other people’s stupidity.

Also, Alec already knows that Izzy and Jace aren’t interested in hunting demons during the day. The two of them want to see the mundane side of things in New York and if Alec knew anything about the mundane side, he might be willing to show them around.  However, he doesn’t, and he doesn’t trust them on their own. Therefore, they won’t be leaving without supervision and his company.

“We never get away from LA and you’re being such a jerk.” Izzy complains and she looks about ready to throw her plate on the floor, something else Alec thought she’d already grown out of. “You never even visit me, so why is it a big deal if we want to explore here with you?”

“You know why I don’t visit you.” Alec tells her, honestly confused, “I didn’t think you also hated Robert.”

Izzy pales and Jace looks between the two of them with confusion hidden under his arrogance.

“There’s no guarantee Robert will survive a second encounter with my shadows.” Alec explains and he shrugs, unsure why Jace looks so distraught and upset. “Mother says he’s lucky he was left alive. If I visit LA, I’m going to have to see him and if I see him, there’s no telling what happened. So, I guess I’m asking, what changed? Because I thought you still loved him?”

Izzy gives a little, small snarl and falls into the back of her chair with a glower. “Fine, that’s not what I meant. Don’t be stupid Alec, I just meant you could loosen up. Learn to live a little and let us live a little, you don’t have to be this unfeeling soldier all the time.”

“Not letting you break the rules isn’t being unfeeling or a soldier.” Alec rolls his eyes, “it’s understanding that the consequences for the rules you want to break aren’t worth it. Especially when the only reason you want to break the rules, is because you’re bored and curious.” Alec waits a minute and then he looks at them both, “and spoiled.”