#Request for Proposal

[alston332]

UNICEF Request for proposal (re-advertisement ) long term agreement for air conditioners maintenance service

Request for proposal (re-advertisement ) long term agreement for air conditioners maintenance service ( only for business registered in Sierra Leone)   UNICEF Sierra Leone invites tenders for air conditioners maintenance services for tits offices in New England (Freetown) and Kenema , and its warehouse at ferry Junction (Freetown). This will be through a Long-Term Agreement which will be for 24…

[randombusinessoflawthoughts]

#ICYMI – Weekly Digest 335

Issue 335 of my Weekly Digest of all things going on in #legal #strategy #pricing #vbp #CRM #clients #customers #innovation was sent to subscribers earlier today. Check it out here.

[lastweekgifs]

[lost-in-fiction-like-ur-mom]

Could you do one where the reader had been in a relationship with Hunter before being taken with Omega on Tantiss. Now that they're reunited, Hunter realizes that he wants to marry the reader?

With a little bit of Wrecker and Crosshair friendly teasing Hunter.

Marry Me?

Hunter x Reader

Summary- After an insufferable separation from you, Hunter realizes his true feelings. That he never wants to be apart from you- that he wants to spend the rest of his life with you.

Part two right here!

A/N- SPOILERS FOR SEASON 3 OF THE BAD BATCH!!!! You have been warned! Thank you so much for requesting babes! Hope you like it! <3 <3

Word Count- 1,755

Beautiful Screen Shot by @isthereanechoinhere96

"Omega... It's- It's been months. We don't even know if they're still aliv-"

You felt shame rise up in your chest when you agreed with Crosshair. He was right, time had gone by slowly and there was no way of knowing if Hunter and Wrecker were alive. Your sweet sweet Hunter. The man who only showed he heart for the people he deeply loved. You were lucky to be one of them.

"They'll be there." Omega stated. She was so sure... but all you could think about were the doubts. Omega was always able to be more trusting and optimistic than you. Constant fear of losing your family limited you severely.

You swallowed deeply and looked down to Omega, pushing your anxieties down. "They will be." Were you trying to convince Crosshair or yourself?

The next few minutes of hyper-space felt like days. You were so eager. Everything was either going to get a million times worse, or a million times better.

Omega guided the ship to a remote planet you had never heard of, a deep blue over taking you.

Picking at your nails nervously, you stood- ready to depart. Crosshair noticed this and eyed you. He was nervous as well, but for different reasons.

You almost sobbed when you saw the Marauder in the distance. Hope bubbled in your chest, all thoughts of doubt escaped you.

The second the door lowered with a steam, Omega ran out of the ship. You followed her quickly behind.

She stopped at the mid-point between the ships. Wrecker slowly exited the Marauder, "Now there's a sight!"

You laughed, the tension dissipated. Omega ran to him and Wrecker picked her up, spinning around. "Wrecker!" She responded.

The sight made tears of joy fall. To see Omega so happy was enough for you.

"And I wasn't even sure your message was real!" Wrecker half-joked, still holding Omega up.

"Wrecker, I knew you'd show up!" Her words made your ears ring, did Hunter show up? Well, of course he did! That would be dumb for him to leave Wrecker... Unless, unless he wasn't alive to leave.

Your brain ran wild, why hadn't Hunter come out yet? It was almost as if Wrecker read your mind, he rested a hand on your shoulder after lowering Omega.

Just then, another set of footsteps came out. Hunter skipped steps to get to you and Omega.

Your hands shot up to cover your gasp, tears falling fast now. Omega got to Hunter first- you knew she needed it more.

He crouched down and hugged Omega deeply, his words drowned out. What you did make out was him saying your name, an arm stretched out for you and an arm holding Omega tightly.

You met him as fast as your feet would let you. "Hunter..." You whispered, face immediately meeting his neck as he pulled you close.

His arm pulled you in, crushing you against him in a pleasant way.

He pulled back to pepper your face with kisses, then a deep one on the lips. A few of your tears dripped onto his face, mixing with his own.

Omega giggled and pulled on your arm, you pulled back to let her back in on the hug. All three of you were lifted when Wreckers arms grasped around the bunch of you.

Wrecker pulled everyone up, making the embrace tighter. It was like your perfect little family was back again.

That night, after abandoning the empire's ship, was filled with more hugs, catching up, tears, and awkward conversations with Crosshair. You couldn't have wished for anything better. Your family, all in one place. Save for Echo, but you learnt he was safe with Rex- that made you smile.

You helped Omega settle into her room. You noticed too many yawns and drifting off, she was worn out emotionally and physically.

You spoke with her softly, reminding her everyone would still be here in the morning. Picking up Lula, her doll, and tucking it under her arm gave out the last yawn.

"Can I talk to Hunter?" She questioned with big eyes.

"Of course, baby. I'll be right back" You pet her hair back and left to go retrieve him.

You stopped when you saw him, Crosshair, and Wrecker whispering in the cock-pit.

"Ahaha! Be a man, just ask!" Wrecker said as he patted Hunters back harshly. Ask who? What would he have to 'be a man' about?

"If you say it any louder he won't have to..." Crosshair remarked.

"Oh! Sooorry." Wrecker dragged out.

"Both of you hush, I'll do it when I feel the time is right." Hunter spoke, his husky voice immediately filling you with warmth.

"You got this!" Wrecker exclaimed again, this time he earned a "Shhh!" from both Hunter and Crosshair.

You slowly entered the cock-pit, this time making your appearance known.

"Oh! Hello!" Wrecker greeted loudly, signalling to Hunter you were in the room. Hunter just sighed and shook his head.

You were curious about the conversation, but thought it might not be any of your business.

Smiling, you started, "Omega wants you to finish putting her to bed, Hunter." The way his face lit up had you star-struck. Almost like he couldn't believe she wanted him. "Thank you."

He nodded and headed her way, a hand cupping and maneuvering around your waist as he passed you. His subtle but frequent small touches warmed your heart.

You took a seat in the co-pilot chair, swiveling to look at Crosshair and Wrecker. Both looked down at you with crossed arms and smug looks.

"What?" You wondered if there was something on your face, or if you just took someones spot.

"Nooothing, we will be heading off to sleep now. RIGHT Crosshair?" Wrecker spoke in a suspicious voice, elbowing him in the side. Crosshiar grunted but agreed, leaving you alone.

Weird.

But then again, nothing was normal on this ship.

You took this time to lean back and take a few minutes of rest alone. It was nice being able to relax by yourself, knowing everyone was safe.

After a handful of minutes, Hunter made his way back from Omega. He took the seat next to yours, turning to face you.

"How are you doing?" You asked, sparking conversation.

"Fine, I'm just happy you guys are here... I keep thinking i'm going to blink and you'll both be gone..." His words shook at the end. You sat up, understanding the seriousness of the conversation.

"Hunter, Omega and I are alive and safe. We are here and we are not going anywhere." You rose and stood between his legs, hands cupping his face.

He looked up at you, tears filling his eyes slowly.

"What if I can't protect you two again?" He brought up a hand to rest at your hip, the other on his leg.

You rested your forehead against his, "That was a freak accident, baby. No one could have stopped that. Now we have Crosshair, Batcher, and we are ready for anything. We will keep Omega from the Empire. I promise."

He took a deep breath in, like he had just decided something.

He started by saying your name, "You always know just what to say. I wish I had that ability..." He closed his eyes and breathed you in for a moment, then he spoke again. "When... When we were apart I was so lost."

"I kno-"

"No, I don't think you understand. I couldn't think of anything but you and Omega. I was so broken without you." He repeated your name.

"I-I never want you to be away from me again." His voice got huskier as he spoke, and your legs felt like jello. You just looked at him deeply, nodding.

He started for a second time with a shaky breath, "No one can take you from me again. I will claw my way back to you every damn time." He nods his head up, brushing his nose to the side of your cheek with closed eyes.

You let him speak, even when your mind was flowing with your own comments, "It- The distance, made me realize. There is no one that can compare to you. No other woman I would ever want to be with."

Ah, so that is what they were talking about. You smiled big, awaiting the special phrase.

Tears filled your eyes with his words, he was speaking as raw as he was capable of.

"I can't promise you money or luxury, but I will spend every waking hour fighting to make you happy. Fighting to keep you safe." He pulls back, steadying you with both hands on your hips.

You take in a teary breath to speak, but he cuts you off. "Don't say anything yet, just- Wait here, just a second." He stands, reaching to Crosshair's old storage compartment.

He rushes back with a small box. You raise your hands to cup your own face, bright red. He lowered onto one knee, right in the middle of the cock-pit

"Please, for my own sanity and happiness, will you marry me?" He asks.

"Yes. Yes Hunter, there are no other words than yes." You fall down onto him, arms grasping around his neck.

He lets out a sigh of relief like you'd ever say 'no.'

"Thank you, oh thank you." He whispers into your neck, holding you tight. He only pulls back slightly to kiss you. A kiss so deep and full of emotions your head spun. You just held him, never wanting to let go.

It felt like time stopped, just for you two. Just for a clone trooper and a small girl...

"I never planned on you..." He broke the silence, head placed on top of yours. "But I- you were so damn perfect. Too perfect." You gave a small laugh, looking up to see his handsome face.

You rested a hand on his tattoo, thumbing it. "Hunter, if anyone is perfect it's you. You have so much love for me and Omega... How do you do it?"

"I manage." He smirked, leaning down to smell your hair. Something he used to do frequently when you snuggled in the past.

"Am I now Mrs. Hunter? Or is it Mrs. Trooper?" You joked, pulling back to sit fully on the ship floor. Your hands still filled with his much larger ones.

He smiled at you, another reminder on why he loved you so much. "We can figure out all the fine details later... Just let me kiss you again..."

So, you did.

A/N- Thank you so much for reading! I loved writing this one, I hope it turned out as good as I thought! Sorry It took me longer to post than usual, I was pretty busy this past week. As always, i'm open to constructive criticism!

Tags- (lmk if you want to be tagged as well!) @thethreeeyed-raven @knight-of-flowerss

[chamm0y]

Imagine Soundwave going through a catalogue featuring several designs of Shockwave (TFP, Cyberverse, IDW, G1, TFE, etc.) and going “Oooh I like that.” on one or more of them.

You may respond with or without fanart, or not at all. I just thought it might be funny. 😂

-❗

-Yes dear?

-TANK.

-I know dear.

ohh hed be so jelous heheeee

[virginsexgod69]

Idk why, but I've really been loving the idea of Daryl proposing to reader recently. Like, he was just gonna pop the question in the confines of their own home, but maybe while on a hunt, the reader successfully tracks down and kills a deer on her own without Daryl's help, and while she's excitedly rambling about the fact that she finally did it on her own, Daryl just looks at her and thinks, "yeah, this is the girl I wanna marry," and then unexpectedly just says "marry me". He pulls a ring out and everything. Fluff all the way!

Thank you so much if you write this, but don't feel pressured to! You don't have to write something you don't want to. I completely understand either way. I appreciate you nonetheless 💜

❝ Marry Me ❞

pairing Daryl Dixon x F! Reader

cw killing a deer and some walkers

1.7k words

note this was such a cute idea and i loved writing it so much! i hope you like it and it fits the vision you had! =]

“What’s on your mind, baby?” You asked sleepily, running your fingers through his soft hair as his head rested comfortably on your chest. 

“Nothin’,” he lied. He hated lying to you, but he didn’t know how to go about popping the question. Now would have been a nice time, with two of you cuddled comfortably on the couch in the privacy of your own home. Moments like these were some of his favorites with you and adding the memory of a marriage proposal to them would only make these moments better. But for some reason, he couldn’t bring himself to do it. He wasn’t scared you’d say no, in fact he would have bet his life on you saying yes. Yet, each time, the words kept dying on his tongue and the ring weighed heavily in his pocket. 

“You can tell me anything, you know that, right?” You insisted. He looked up at you sweetly and muttered an ‘I know.’ You gave him a sad smile, wishing he’d tell you what he was thinking, but respecting his decision not to. 

“I love you, Daryl,” you said dreamily. This was it, the perfect segue into a proposal. He sat up properly and felt around in his pockets for the ring. The words were just about to leave his mouth, but the tired yawn that escaped you interrupted him. 

“G’nite,” you muttered as you dozed off. Daryl would never not be amazed at how fast you could go from being wide awake one minute to falling asleep in the next. He pulled the ring out of his pocket and fiddled with the shiny piece of jewelry. It was a small, elegant ring with a fairly thin band and diamond right in the center. Whoever had originally bought it had to have paid a fair amount of money for it, but stuff like that didn’t matter now. Even though you would say yes without a ring, he still wanted to do something nice for you because you deserved it. The weeks of examining the hands of every walker he killed and searching through abandoned cars and buildings all became worth it once he found the perfect ring for you. But somehow, that was the easy part. Finding the right words at the right moment was proving difficult as every minute he wasn’t married to you passed by. He sighed to himself and tucked the ring back into his pocket, disappointed that yet another opportunity slipped by. 

He gently lifted you from the couch, taking extra care not to wake you from your peaceful sleep. He carried you up the stairs and into your shared bedroom before pulling back the comforter and sheets and tucking you in. He slid into the bed beside you and you gravitated toward his warmth like you usually did. He pressed a kiss to your forehead.

“Love you, too.” 

The sun blooming over the horizon created an orangey hue across the clear sky, illuminating the once dark forest. It became easier to see the tracks of the deer you’ve been tracking since dark morning. Hunting wasn’t something you did before the dead started rising, but it quickly became a necessary skill to have and thankfully, you had Daryl to show you the ropes. He even showed you how to use his crossbow once when you joined him on a hunt way back at the prison. That same day you learned that you preferred a hunting rifle. In return, you shared with him the medical knowledge you had from being a paramedic. The quid pro quo relationship you had with the hunter slowly grew into something more deep and meaningful over time. 

Finally, after hours of following the tracks imprinted in the damp earth, you came across a clearing where the doe stood. You aimed the rifle at her, careful not to make any noise and scare her off. Through the scope, you pointed the weapon at the place Daryl taught you to in order to ethically kill it. Just as you were about to press your finger to the trigger, you noticed walkers approaching the doe. Their loud groans and clumsy footsteps spooked her, sending her running into the forest just at the same time you fired your shot. 

“Goddamn walkers!” You cursed. You put the safety on your rifle and hung it on your shoulder by the strap. Unsheathing your knife, you entered the clearing and approached the undead beings. You put them both down once they approached you and cleaned your knife on your jeans before putting it back into its sheath. Red blood contrasting on the green grass caught your eye. It belonged to the doe, meaning your shot actually landed and she could be somewhere wounded, or even dead. Excitement increased your heart rate as you followed her blood trail. This was the closest you’ve come to killing a deer on your own. You’ve managed smaller kills, like squirrels, before, but never a deer! You couldn’t tell if you were more excited about actually killing the deer or seeing Daryl’s reaction, but either way you were giddy. 

After trekking about a half mile in the direction the doe fled, you finally found her lying in the greenery having succumbed to your shot. You were beaming with happiness as you effortlessly picked her up and carried her across your shoulders. You’ve carried people heavier than her out in the field during your paramedic days. 

Daryl nervously fiddled with the ring as leaned over the railing of the front porch, smoking a cigarette. He hated how hopeless he felt when it came to actually proposing to you. With how long the two of you have been together romantically, the ability to propose should have come to him naturally. He knew there was nothing to be nervous about and that he was just psyching himself out and he should just ask you to marry him already. But every time it felt like the right moment to, that feeling was gone once he started digging around in his pocket for the ring. 

The sight of you walking toward the house with a big smile on your face and a deer draped over your shoulders snapped him from his thoughts. Maybe it was just the sun shining from behind you, but you were absolutely glowing.

“Daryl!” You shouted excitedly as you increased your walk into a small jog. You set the deer down before hurrying up the porch stairs. He put out his cigarette before you excitedly jumped into his arms, embracing him like you haven’t seen him in months. 

“Guess what!” You said as you reluctantly pulled away from the hug. 

“Wha?” Based on the deer laying at the base of the stairs he was sure he could tell what happened, but you looked so happy and he wanted to share your excitement and hear you tell him yourself. 

“I finally killed a deer! All on my own!” A smile tugged at the corners of his mouth as pride swelled in his chest. He remembered when he took you hunting with him the first time. You were the one who wanted to go with him and "see what he does when he's off to who knows where for who knows how long." When he finally did, you complained about how boring it was and how all you were doing was looking at dirt and not seeing any animals. But now, here you were with a deer you had hunted all on your own. 

"I had been tracking it since way earlier this morning and I almost thought I wasn't gonna catch it but then I saw it in a clearing and so I was gonna shoot it but then walkers got in my way like they usually do, those annoying sons of bitches, and then the deer ran but I had shot at it so then I followed the blood..."

Daryl stared at you in awe as you rambled on about your adventure. The sense of pride and adoration he felt whenever he looked at you, but now especially was overwhelming. You were perfect in every way and he'd be damned if he went another second without being your husband. 

"...and then I found it further in the woods and I was just so excited that I finally caught a whole entire deer all on my own for the v—"  

"Marry me!" he blurted out suddenly. 

"Huh?" You blinked at him in confusion, not sure if you heard him right. As if he suddenly remembered something, he patted all his pockets until he felt the one with the ring in it and pulled it out. The sparkle of the diamond in the sunlight caught your eye. 

"Will ya marry me?" he repeated, this time holding out the ring to you. He lowered himself to one knee, still holding out the ring. Your eyes filled with tears, happy tears, and you held out your left hand to him. 

"Of course!" you said as he slid the ring onto your fourth finger. It fit almost perfectly. As soon as he stood up from his position on the floor, you jumped into his arms. He caught you and held you tight as you peppered kisses all over his face. He set you back down onto your feet and held your face in his big warms hands, wiping away your tears away with his thumbs. 

"I'm so proud of ya fer catchin' that deer all by yerself." The smile that graced his face was contagious. 

"Learned from the best," you said, smiling up at him. He leaned down and you met him halfway in a kiss. 

"Can't wait to skin this deer with my wife," he said once he pulled away from the kiss. 

"Ooh," you exclaimed, giddy at the new title, "Can't wait to eat some venison with my husband!" 

thanks for reading!

note i've been a pescatarian for 3-ish years now, but I've been wanting wing-stop, so i got some wing-stop and it was great. thanks for listening

Taglist @banquetwriter @eternalrose81 @the-dixon-effect @dilfsandmartinis @millybaby @daryldixmedown @theoraekenslover @aeriean @lesbian-horror-fan @in-this-minute @paintlavillered @zhannamustdie @thegeorgiahuntsman @bigbaldheadname @Lumi362 @lettersfromyourlover-blog @princesssparkel2024 @hayweee @d0p3ys-delusions @xxlaynaxx

[livelovecaliforniadreams]

#Proposal Fake Outs Am I Right?

[cerise-on-top]

helloooo! how do think Kate and Nikolai would like to get married, like type of weddings and how they’d propose. Also I adore your Kate stuff! there isn’t enought for her!

Hello! I'm not sure I'm the right person to ask this since the last wedding I went to was 17, almost 18 years ago! But I tried, even if I don't know at all what a wedding encompasses!

How Laswell and Nikolai Would Like to Get Married

Laswell: She’d try to find a special date to propose, even if she would preferably choose Christmas. However, if you don’t celebrate Christmas, then she’ll find another date, even if it’s “just” your birthday. You deserve all the good in the world and that she makes sure to give you. Your birthday will be an absolute dream, everything will be perfect and you will be cared for. However, Laswell will try to propose to you when the two of you are all alone, so she’ll either send everyone away, or drive you home and then propose to you on your doorstep. Either way, she wants you to be content and happy so that you can be positively joyful as she proposes to you. Your wedding won’t be very big, however, with only the most important people coming. She’s a CIA station chief, she’s highly sought after, so not the entire city needs to know about your arrangements and possibly get you killed during them. No, Laswell plays it safe and thus keeps it small. Although she would like to have a ceremony to commemorate this special day. Laswell isn’t a very religious person, in fact she’s not religious at all, so she doesn’t need a church wedding. If you absolutely insist, however, then she will plan one. However, she’s content with a ceremony and just a civil marriage. If you’re close with a lot of people, then it’s very likely that a lot of people will come from your side. Laswell doesn’t really have many people she’d invite to her wedding. The people she would invite likely don’t have time, so she doesn’t particularly bother. Besides, those two are very dangerous people as well, so it would likely be for the best if she doesn’t. The wedding itself would be a rather standard wedding, though. Like one you’d see on TV, so nothing too fancy. It doesn’t need to be to show how much you love each other.

Nikolai: He’d be very casual about it, waiting for a good moment to ask you for marriage. Don’t get me wrong, he has a pair of rings he’d use for such a thing, but he won’t openly propose with them. During a mellow moment where it’s evident you both love each other so dearly and are stricken with infatuation, that’s when he’ll ask you if you want to marry him. No getting down on one knee, just him lying on your chest, looking up at you and asking you, hearts in his eyes. It would take him a while to ask you for your hand in marriage, a few years, in fact, but he’ll be the one to ask. It won’t be a special date either, just whenever you’re feeling especially lovey dovey with each other. Your wedding won’t be very big either. He’s the leader of Chimera, so he needs to keep a low profile if he doesn’t want to be found out. No big or fancy ceremony, even if he will marry you in a church. Nikolai wants to have a traditional Russian wedding. One, where he pays ransom for you with the most beautiful sapphire necklace he could find. One, where he finds the most stunning crowns in all of Russia, both of which are yours. One, where he takes you through St. Petersburg to show you all the sights there are to see. Granted, he’ll be speedrunning the tour with you since he can’t afford to have the wedding last longer than two days, but he still wants to enjoy all these moments with you. He’ll tell you about all the sights there are in the city and hold your hand as well, taking pictures everywhere. He just wants to remember the sight of you wearing either a suit or a wedding dress forever, and what better way is there than by taking pictures? Although his memory is phenomenal, and he’ll remember those days forever, he still wants a few pictures here and there as a keepsake.

[steddieas-shegoes]

Request: actor Steve??? Singer Eddie at the grammy's??? Eddie's band winning a Grammy & Eddie proposing to Steve accidentally in his speech???? & Steve crying and nodding yes but he is in tears & can't stand up??? Ok but then at the Oscars Steve actually proposes on stage because he had broken his leg & Eddie helped him on stage. But his proposal is the same as Eddie's because he also asks during his speech & Eddie cries and they get engaged again ❤️❤️❤️❤️

BABYYYYYY!!! NOT ONE, BUT TWO MARRIAGE PROPOSALS?! YES! PLEASE! I love the idea of Steve being prepared to propose to Eddie, has a whole plan, and then Eddie gets so emotional when he wins a Grammy that he does it before Steve gets a chance. Steve CANNOT be outdone, so obviously he does it too. We love love! - Mickala ❤️

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

Somehow, against every odd, Eddie Munson made it.

Corroded Coffin, through hard work and a pinch of luck, were nominated for a Grammy.

They’d spent years climbing their way to the top (hard work) and finally got signed to a huge record deal when an agent saw them opening for a metal band at a festival (pinch of luck).

Their first album broke records in ways that hadn’t been seen since Metallica stepped onto the scene.

Their first tour sold out in minutes.

Their second album had a lot of hype to live up to, and according to the Grammy nomination, it far surpassed the expectations.

He hated that Steve couldn’t walk the carpet with him, but he was happy he was waiting inside with all the significant others of the band.

Probably already drinking wine and champagne. Maybe even shots.

Dammit, Eddie hated walking the carpet.

Steve was a fun drunk, but he was even more fun when he’d only had a couple. His filter shut off, but he wasn’t quite at the point of bitchy. He was silly.

Steve was rarely silly.

Fun, funny, happy.

But never really silly.

Not like Eddie was.

But after a couple drinks? Downright clownish.

Eddie tried to rush through the remaining interviews, and the guys could tell, throwing him shocked looks. Eddie loved the spotlight, so it probably was a little shocking.

When they got inside, they were stopped by just about everyone who lived on planet Earth.

Eddie was ready to grab Steve and run.

Fuck the Grammy.

But he couldn’t do that. This was a possibly once in a lifetime thing. Wayne was watching at home even though he “doesn’t have time to watch those stupid awards.”

If they did win, Eddie had to give a speech, they had to go to afterparties, he had to fuck Steve against the window in their hotel room.

He shook his head, trying to clear it of any of those thoughts. Now wasn’t the time.

He walked into the main room, suddenly overwhelmed by the crowd and the vast expanse of tables and seating and stage area in front of him.

He caught a glimpse of Steve at a table not too far away, laughing at something Jeff’s wife, Amy, was saying. She’d almost skipped tonight, her pregnancy far enough along that getting all dressed up didn’t sound remotely appealing. But then she’d heard Steve was going, and she’d called her sister to alter her dress immediately.

Gareth’s fiancé, Sam, was sitting away from everyone, still not sure of her place in the group. They’d had a bit of a whirlwind romance, and Eddie would be more worried if Sam wasn’t completely head over heels in love with Gareth in high school first. But she’d only just met everyone a month ago, and this was the first public event she attended with everyone. She was visibly nervous.

Grant’s wife, Savannah, was clearly trying to make conversation with everyone.

And Eddie knew that Steve and Amy weren’t purposefully making it harder, but they certainly weren’t making things easy for her.

They were laughing so much, he couldn’t even be sure they were laughing at something.

He sidled up to Steve’s side, plopping down in the empty chair to his right.

“Eddie! Amy’s here!” Steve smacked his arm excitedly.

He was at least three wines in.

“I see that, sweetheart. Hi, Amy.”

“Hey, Eddie. He’s drinking for two,” Amy smiled fondly as Steve took another sip of wine.

“And she’s eating for two!” Steve said as he reached out to touch her belly. “I can’t believe I don’t get to have your babies, Eds.”

Eddie snorted. Amy let out a loud laugh.

“I’m sure we can give it our best shot later tonight,” Eddie whispered in his ear, smirking to himself when he saw Steve shiver.

They all continued chatting, occasionally getting interrupted by guests: producers, musicians, agents, even some kids who were big fans.

When the show started, Steve was drifting. He’d had maybe one too many, and he’d reached the sleepy part of wine drunk a lot sooner than he should’ve. Maybe because he barely slept last night. Maybe because Eddie fucked him in the shower and the couch and the bed, and then woke him up early to fuck him on the counter before he had to leave for an interview with Good Morning America. He was tired.

Eddie was tired too, but he was used to a lot of late nights and early mornings over the last couple of years.

Plus, he was running on so much adrenaline at the thought of winning a Grammy, he was pretty sure he could stay awake for another 12 hours.

Steve’s head rested against Eddie’s shoulder, his hand entangled in Eddie’s.

For seven years, Steve’s been his biggest fan, his person, his everything.

And for three years before that, he was his best friend.

He was there at grungy bars, outdoor festivals in rain or shine, that one fundraising event at the mall that was a total disaster. He was front row at their first opening gig for a Midwest metal band, and front row at their opening gig for Ghost. He was backstage for their first headlining tour, in the studio when they recorded their first and second albums, and on the tour bus when he could miss work.

It only made sense that he was here for this.

He wanted him here for everything.

This wasn’t the first time he’d thought that, probably not even the hundredth. He’d wanted to marry Steve for years.

But Steve was focused on building his own career, and Eddie insisted that he do what he wanted to do no matter what Eddie did with his career.

It meant a lot of time apart, a lot of FaceTiming at weird hours of the day or night because it’s the only time their schedules would sync up, a lot of missing each other.

But they believed in their relationship the same way they believed in each other, and they kept making it work.

He had a ring. He bought it years ago. Wayne had it so Steve wouldn’t find it, but they’d already planned on him taking it with him on his next stop in Hawkins.

He let himself relax a bit. Had a glass of wine, then champagne, and a beer. Their category was almost the last of the night, so they were able to relax for a while.

Steve knew a lot of people in the industry because of his acting career, but he’d made it very clear tonight was about Eddie to anyone who tried to talk to him.

The night was long, longer than Eddie could really handle.

His nerves were through the roof and Steve had fallen asleep on his shoulder.

When their category was announced, Eddie nudged him awake gently.

“Hey, sweetheart. I’m either about to be a Grammy winner or get a lot of great sympathy sex from you,” Eddie whispered in his ear as a camera guy settled in front of their table to get their reactions.

Steve was suddenly wide awake, the realization that this could be one of the biggest moments of their lives making him grip Eddie’s hand like a lifeline.

“And the winner for Best Metal Album is…” the announcer paused for dramatic effect. “Corroded Coffin with Reanimate!”

The whole room was cheering, but their table was going wild.

Steve jumped up the moment they said Corroded Coffin, jumping up and down and pulling Eddie up on his feet.

The next minute was a blur as they made their way to the stage, his boys surrounding him and clapping each other on the back excitedly.

They’d all worked hard for this, dealt with endless bullying in high school because their music was different, fought through the struggle of trying to appease bar owners and small town festival organizers with “softer” music so they could get in front of the right people. They spent thousands of dollars they realistically didn’t have to travel to places where metal was more welcome.

They had to take out personal loans to get studio time to record a demo and send it in to every record company they could think of.

Steve gave them 25% of his inheritance to buy their first tour bus because “it’s a good investment, and it’ll save money on hotels and eating out.”

When they got to the stage, Eddie realized that he’d have to speak.

Shit.

He’d kind of prepared a speech, but he also didn’t want to get his hopes up too much so he’d just let it go.

“Uh, wow. Okay. Thank you guys so much!” He started. He could just barely see the faces of everyone at their table, but Steve’s beaming smile was enough. “I didn’t prepare much other than that because I just didn’t think we would win. I know we’re talented and we work hard, but this is the biggest award you can win in the music industry and we still have a long way to go to really feel like we can even be in the same room as most of these talented musicians.”

He was killing it!

“I need to thank these guys up here with me, all the guys who work with us in the studio, everyone who makes tour possible, my Uncle Wayne, who probably is crying but won’t admit it when I talk to him later.” Everyone laughed. “But I have to thank Steve more than anything. I think the guys would agree he’s been the guy there for us through everything. He’s not just my boyfriend, he’s our first and biggest fan. Sorry to all the wives and future wife at our table.” More laughter. “I don’t know where we’d be without him, but I really don’t think I’d be who I am if not for the way he loves me, the way he’s always loved me. Even when it’s hard, even when we go months without being able to see each other, we find ways to make us work. We keep doing the damn thing even when the damn thing is hard. I didn’t plan to do this tonight, and Wayne is gonna kill me, but Stevie, sweetheart, I can’t go another day without knowing. Will you marry me?”

The room erupted into cheers, the guys on stage jumping up and down. He saw the camera guy zooming in on Steve’s reaction as they broadcast it on a screen by the stage.

But Eddie didn’t need the screen. He could see the tears streaming down Steve’s face as he cried, his smile bigger than life as he nodded.

“He said yes!” Jeff yelled.

The crowd cheered louder as Eddie handed the Grammy award to Gareth and ran down the stairs back to his table.

Steve jumped into his arms, wrapping his legs around his waist.

Eddie’s hands immediately went to his thighs to support him, and Steve’s hands cupped his face.

“I can’t believe you just did that,” Steve sobbed out.

“I can’t believe I haven’t done it earlier,” Eddie responded.

They kissed in front of the hundreds of people here and the possibly millions watching at home.

It was one of the best kisses they’d ever shared. The room around them went quiet, at least to them, as their lips moved against each other passionately, but with a gentleness they rarely had with each other anymore.

They pulled apart after a few more seconds, foreheads resting against each other as they caught their breath.

Eddie gently let Steve down, using his thumbs to wipe away some of his tears and giving him a beaming smile.

“Wayne’s got the ring. I have a feeling he’ll be making us come for a visit very soon so I’ll put it on you then,” Eddie whispered.

The rest of the band had trickled back to the table to collect him for post-win interviews backstage, but he couldn’t go without one more kiss.

Steve gave it willingly, always giving love in whatever way he could.

“Okay, I gotta go answer some questions. We’ll be quick,” he said with one more kiss to Steve’s forehead.

“Love you. So proud of you,” Steve said as he pulled away.

“Love you so much!”

—---------------------------------------

Steve’s engagement ring glistened in the spotlight hitting their table at the Oscars.

The Oscars.

Steve Harrington, almost Munson, was sitting at the Oscars because he was nominated for two awards: Best Actor in a Drama and Best Actor in a Comedy.

Eddie was sitting next to him, somehow more nervous here than he was at the Grammys.

His leg hadn’t stopped bouncing up and down since they sat down 20 minutes ago. The other people at the table were luckily good friends and didn’t think anything of his anxiety.

Eddie never got nervous before shows, or interviews, or photoshoots, or even his award shows. But when it came to Steve, he was a nervous wreck.

Before auditions, before appearances, before red carpets. He was on edge whether he was with him or not.

Tonight was no different.

They’d had incredibly busy schedules after the Grammys, only seeing each once over the last three months. But Eddie had told his manager nearly six months ago that he would not miss this for any reason, that Steve supported him at all of his big events, and he wasn’t going to ask permission to support his fiance, he just was.

Except it turned into more of Steve supporting him as the night wore on, the realization that Steve could very well win both categories keeping Eddie strung out.

It was actually a little cute.

The comedy category was first, and he had tough competition. Anytime you’re going against people like Jonah Hill and the people at Disney you have to be ready to lose.

And he did lose. Well, Eddie kept saying “it’s not a loss, it’s just not a win”, which was really the same thing.

But Steve wasn’t as upset as he expected to be. Comedy wasn’t really his forte, he’d only done a handful of comedy movies and shows over the last few years, and none of them were major roles.

It was the drama he cared about.

He’d put his heart and soul into this film. It was regarded as the breakthrough queer film of the year, up for enough awards tonight to be considered an Oscar Sweep.

He never would have gotten here if not for the man next to him, so he could handle his nerves easily.

“Drama is next,” Eddie breathed out, his hand squeezing Steve’s knee.

“I know, baby.”

“What if you win? Oh my god, what if you don’t? No, no. You’ll win. This is your best work. Seriously, don’t know why I would ever think you wouldn’t.”

Steve smirked as the announcer started saying all the nominees’ names.

The camera focused on him was probably capturing a lot of Eddie’s mumbling under his breath, but luckily they weren’t mic’d up so it would be easy to explain away.

“The winner for Best Actor in a Drama…Steve Harrington!”

“Oh my god! Oh my god! Steve I can’t feel my legs, I can’t feel them. Or my arms. I think I might black out, oh my god,” Eddie immediately turned to him with tears in his eyes.

“Baby, I need you to help me on stage. My leg’s broken, remember?”

And that was a pain in the ass. His last role required some stunts and Steve was an idiot and insisted on trying one for himself. It didn’t go well and he’s lucky it was just a broken leg.

Steve kissed Eddie’s lips softly, quickly, to get him to focus.

“Right! Okay,” Eddie stood up and held his arm out for Steve, who was using a single crutch to get around this evening instead of two. “Off we go!”

Steve giggled, and nodded at people clapping as they passed them on their way to the stage. Eddie was so busy looking ahead, trying to get him to the final destination safely, he missed the announcer making a joke about Steve earning the drama award by breaking his leg.

When they got on stage, Steve stood at the mic while Eddie stood at the side of the stage. He was crying, much like Steve had when he got his Grammy award.

“Sorry for taking my sweet time. As you can see, I thought I was able to do what stunt actors do and forgot that they’re actually very in shape and talented.” The room laughed. “Hey, no laughing, I didn’t win in comedy.” More laughter, louder this time. “I have to thank everyone who worked on this film; It’s truly one of those films that will continue to change lives. It was the most difficult job I have ever had, and I am so grateful for everyone who gave me the chance to prove that I could do it. I’d like to thank all my kiddos, who aren’t kiddos anymore, for all yelling at me in the group chat when I almost turned this down because I didn’t think I could do it. My agent, who goes through a lot of amazing opportunities but always manages to find the perfect one.” Steve looked over at Eddie and let himself finally tear up a little. “And Eddie. Can’t forget that guy. My support, literally.” He saw Eddie snort out a laugh between his tears. “Would not be standing here without him and not just because he had to walk me up here. Every time I thought about giving up, he made me go to one more audition or read one more script. Every time I’ve not gotten an offer I really wanted, he’s been there to remind me that there’s something better coming along. Like this one. I’d been turned down for a show I really wanted the same day I sent in the audition tapes for this role. I cried for hours on the phone with Eddie and he told me, I’ll never forget his exact words, ‘You’re meant for better and better will find you.’ And it did. But the best is you, baby. You’re the better that is at the beginning and end of all my days. I could never work again and I’d still be the happiest guy in the world because you’re mine and you want me just as much as I want you. Eight years ago, I was closeted, telling myself that the way I felt when my best friend hugged me was just because he was my best friend. Now, I’m winning an Oscar for playing a queer man in a deeply moving film about finding love for yourself even when love from others isn’t an option. I’m marrying you, that best friend who probably knew exactly what he was doing when he hugged me. And I know I’m wearing your engagement ring, and we’ve already set a date and picked the cake, but I feel like I should ask. Eddie, you’re the only one who gets me at my best, and you also get me at my worst and still love me anyway. Will you marry me?”

He watched as Eddie’s brain ran through a million options at once, finally settling on joining him at the microphone.

He pulled him against his chest, hand against the back of his head.

“Is that a yes?”

“Yes, it’s a yes. Fuck, yes,” Eddie sobbed out.

The crowd was cheering, and the cameras were circling around the stage getting every angle of the moment that they could.

“Next time you’re on this stage accepting an award, you’ll be Steve Munson,” Eddie teased.

“It’s got a nice ring to it,” Steve said against his shoulder.

They pulled apart enough to kiss, much like they did at the Grammys: soft, passionate, but slow.

“Do you have a secret ring hiding at Wayne’s too?”

“No, no ring. Just wanted to show the world I love you as much as you love me.”

“Oh, so it’s to show off. Got it,” Eddie poked him in the side, smirking when he laughed. “Get your trophy before they kick us off the stage.”

Steve grabbed his award, waved to the crowd with one final thank you, and let Eddie help him off the stage.

They were getting married in three months, honeymooning in four. They’d just bought their first house together, spent the last seven years renting apartments wherever life took them. They started talking about taking a break after Corroded Coffin’s next tour and Steve’s next movie so they could start a family.

They had so much to look forward to.

But most importantly, they had the backseat of a limo entirely to themselves on the way back to the hotel.

If they left a $500 tip for cleaning after, it was their business.

[dumplingsjinson]

Hi! Is it possible for you to make prompts where A proposed to B on New Year’s Eve or just proposed in general?

List of proposal prompts 

“I really want to marry you right now.” “Then do it. Put a ring on this finger and I’m yours, but in a forever sense.”

“Why are you… Going down… On your knee? Oh my God. Are you—” “Yes. Yes, I am.” 

“I… I want to spend the rest of my life with you.” 

“It really didn’t take me long to know you are the one for me.” 

“I just really want to wake up next to you every day, you know?” 

“This is an invitation to deal with me long-term.” “And I humbly accept that invitation.”

“Holy shit, finally.” “Took me long enough, didn’t it?” 

“You know that Bruno Mars song? The one where he’s like “I think I wanna marry you?” Yeah. That’s how I feel about you. Except I don’t think I want to marry you — I know I want to marry you.” 

“Why are you proposing again?” “Because we were drunk last time and I wanted to make sure we’re both sober and sure.”

“Are you telling me we were both about to propose to each other?” “Yeah. Yeah, I think we were.” 

[orykorioart]

BUT WHAT ABOUT. Raihan and Leon proposal. Either one to the other or at the same time.

you KNOW their wedding will be the biggest, grandest event with everyone invited and with special limited edition League cards made for it and a huge battle as the reception and

Oh my god I have so many thoughts about this actually lol, especially since Pokemon Masters made Battle Tower Leon’s EX white (immediately made me think of a wedding suit). In the interest of not taking two whole months, I’m going to share this WIP for now!

+A silly extra sketch, featuring the iconic Charizard pose that is absolutely not going to be on Leon’s limited League card what are you talking about

As for the proposal, I might have something cooking somewhere down the line 😉 though based on previous experience it very well might take a while again 🤡

[wearerandomlyyours]

In a world without DADT, neither Maverick or Iceman ever went down on one knee.

Not because they didn't love one another, or because they never got married, but because Ice loved Mav to the point of recklessness.

Because the Iceman is anything but Ice cold, and knows that the bravest pilot in the sky is terrified of what he can lose on solid ground.

So he needs to be the brave one.

So it's another day, another TopGun class, another training hop, and Ice and Mav are unstoppable, A-4's screaming through the sky. And Ice takes a deep breath, stops thinking, and does.

Ice inverts, pulls up over Mavrick, and pulls out the ring he spent weeks searching for.

"Waddya say, Mav-e-rick?" He grins down at the awestruck pilot below him, holding the ring out so Mav can see, "Want to be my wingman for life?"

[bucknastysbabe]

SHIT! You won't believe what came to my mind! I really want you to write aemond/reader or aegon/reader (whatever you like, who do you like better) BUT with dynamics like in the cartoon the swan princess! you know, something based on that song… I think it's called "this is my idea". where the reader is a lady who comes to the red castle every summer as a child, and all the children have a little rivalry, and then it turns out that she is engaged to one of the princes …. well, just listen to this song and I think you will understand what I mean, I'm bad at formulating thoughts, sorry I'M SORRY THIS IS SO LONG but it's literally tearing me apart

AH I WATCHED THE VIDEO AND ITS SO CUTE. So I did this with more politics, adventurous targvelaryon babies and of course shit head aegon. No YOU tore me apart anon. Bottom of me heart hope you enjoyed it, pebble throwing and all. Thanks for the request, keep ‘em coming folx

Proposals? Not my idea.

Tags: Childish ass rivalry, Aegon is actually a sad baby, everyone else is tired of the idiot, Celtigars rule #TEAMBLACKSTANNIES, enemies to lovers, time skips galore, inspired by the swan Princess

Viserys sat with an annoyed look on his face. Rhaenyra to his right, Alicent on the left The tension was aggravating his already throbbing head. His lady wife and Otto had called the meeting, disturbing the king from his building.

Criston Cole stood by the door, shooting a blank look to the regent. Beesbury, Wylde, Strong, Lannister, and Grand Maester Mellos sat around the table. With a sigh Viserys put his golden orb into the slot, opening the meeting. He inquired impatiently, “And what is this meeting so very important to be called for?”

Alicent’s lips opened but Otto butted in, “The concern of Prince Aegon’s betrothal.”

Viserys guffawed, “Is he not to be wed to Helaena?”

Silence amplified by wide eyes ensued. Rhaenyra stifled laughter behind her hand. Alicent softly began, “My king. Aegon has…refused the betrothal. He- our son claims he will not fulfill his duty.” Viserys groaned aloud, his body was starting to ache at the stiff chair.

Otto piped in, “We have tried everything but he refuses to bed her if they are to be in union. We called this meeting to consider alternate options.”

Tyland Lannister shared a look with Lord Wylde. Rhaenyra snarked, “Marry him to a Lyseni whore then. Valyrian blood for the line and whores are all my half-brother goes for anyway.” Harrold harrumphed in disagreement. Otto barred his daughters arm when Alicent snapped, “Do not speak of my son that way! Ask your dear Daemon about pillow houses!”

Rhaenyra grinned like a cat, turning icy eyes onto her father. Tyland Lannister proposed, “Why not look at the Celtigars? They are a house of Old Valyria and quite wealthy. Lord Bartimos has a lovely grand daughter of twelve-and-ten from what I have heard.”

Multitudes of voices spoke up, questioning about the great houses or a union with Dorne.

Viserys, quite done with it all, slammed his palm on the table. He declared, “Send a raven to Lord Bartimos to bring the girl. Helaena will be betrothed to Aemond, he seems to be fond of the child. My word is final.”

Otto raised a brow, choosing to remain silent. Alicent’s face was wrought with concern. She hoped this young she-crab retained nothing of her families sour disposition.

A fortnight later

Your grandfather had been lecturing you on the rules and etiquette of court in the Red Keep. You stared blankly as Bartimos waved his wrinkled hands around, chiding you to remember your upbringing and lessons.

He pinched your chin softly, boring into your eyes. Lord Celtigar gruffed, “If you can survive the Sea Lord of Braavos then take that and guard yourself and intentions by the thousands.” You replied, “They are a nest of Dragons, I can get that much.”

He huffed a laugh and released you, eyeing the Red Keep beckoning the family across the Blackwater Bay. Bartimos braced himself on the side of the ship, breathing in the air. He grumbled, “Your potential betrothed is a bit of a…grasping chap.” You scoffed and bit out, “How so grandfather?”

“Drinks and whores, any serving girl in sight they tell me.”

Your shoulders fell. Still being a princess would be much more palatable than old Lord Crabb. His second lady wife died in the birthing bed and you were offered on a silver platter until the Hand’s raven came in. You didn’t care if the dragon prince was a fool, you’d find other things to do. Squeezing out heirs was the bad part. You shuddered and thought on something else.

Two Kingsguard bearing the same face waited on the docks with gorgeous geldings in tow. One announced, “Lord Celtigar, and the young lady. Welcome to King’s Landing.” You gave the customary bow, feeling your grandfathers steely eyes upon you. You had decided that the city was disgusting. Houses upon ramshackle houses layered upon another, beggars and folks covered in filth barking their wares. The Red Keep loomed over the city like a crimson giant from tales of old.

Grandfather chatted to the two knights and you pulled your hood up higher. The leers of the small folk made you uneasy. Claw Isle was a desolate rock but your childhood was joyfully spent seafaring and finding critters along the broken coast with your cousins and siblings.

You gasped at the sheer height of Maegor’s monstrosity, built to show who truly ran the Seven Kingdoms. Your grandfather spoke of the twisted and fearsome Iron Throne and the maze that ran underneath the keep, holding secrets one wouldn’t dare to unearth.

The Hand himself, Otto Hightower stood at the top of the steps with the queen smiling rather forcefully next to him. Otto beckoned your small party forward. Bartimos and the imposing man hugged and exchanged pleasantries. The green queen pulled you aside, murmuring, “Come here dearest, let me take a look at you.”

You tried not to squawk as the lady prodded and pinched your face, running a gentle hand down your delicate braids. Once done she pulled you into a warm hug. She remarked, “You are beautiful. This will do quite nicely. The Maiden smiles upon thee.” Your supple boots were beginning to grow damp with sweat.

You bowed and thanked Queen Alicent graciously, offering your honor to be in her presence. Otto turned to you before flicking his eyes to Alicent, the slender woman nodding with a soft tilt of her lips. The hand clasped his hands together and spoke, “Very well. Let us get you two in some sumptuous accommodations. Dinner will occur tonight for further discussion and merriment.” You had a feeling it was going to be one of those Braavosi menageries but bowed and followed along, purely in awe of the Keep.

Handmaidens flocked to your quarters to gussy you up for dinner. While they corseted and braided your hair you took in the room. This was much different than Claw Isle. Your families keep was by no means honest but looked like a shanty compared to the grand suite. Your home was made of tough timber supported by stones. Crabs too…lots of crabs.

The bed looked like a cloud, and wine plus other treats adorned the flat surfaces. One of the maidens, Meera, whispered, “Did you know this is where Princess Deria stayed when she delivered Dorne’s terms to the conqueror?” You turned and snarked, “I think I’m a bit less important than that.”

Another one piped in, “No, no, you’re very important. The whispers are that they are considering a betrothal for the young Prince!” Stagnant silence fit the room as you warbled, “My lord grandfather has made it very clear about that. May I have some wine?”

A cup of wine later you felt more loose. It didn’t taste pleasant but considering how others reacted it would be a help. Your father overcomsumed his drink but Bartimos never indulged in a drop. You’d watch yourself tonight.

The ladies tittered over your beauty, guiding you towards a looking glass. You did look comely. The cinching of your waist and the tight bodice gave you the appearance of curves. Celtigars were lanky in nature and you hoped some of your mother’s Rosby fertile traits would come in time.

You smiled and thanked the ladies, promising them a gift before you departed. A polite knock at the door swerved your head, and one of the servants opened the heavy wood. A white knight and Lord Celtigar stood waiting. Your grandfather was nervous, pulling at the hem of his cloak.

“Ser Willis Fell, my grand daughter,” he gestured to you, “Sweetling, your sworn sword for the time being.” You bowed and warmly replied. The Fell man— a strapping lad of dark gray eyes and dusty hair nodded politely. With a swish of his white cloak, the Celtigars were escorted to the Targaryen’s private dinner chambers.

Bartimos grabbed your sleeve, shifting the brocade of white and red beading. He stared expectantly. You meekly replied, “I will be on my most honorable behavior grandfather.” In a strange moment he pulled you into a hug and whispered, “I know you will. Of my offspring, you have a keen eye and intuition they do not possess.”

Face heated with affection, you were introduced to the family. Your heart sank into your bowels as you took in the scene. Queen Alicent shot up and strode to your side. Daemon snorted into his wine, getting a burning look from the King himself. Alicent beamed at you, cheerily chatting, “You look like a dream young lady. Come, come, we’ll sit you next to the younger ones.” You kept your face cool and curtsied before the royals as the queen led you to a spot next to Princess Helaena.

She squeezed your shoulders and returned to the other side of the table. Your grandfather had joined over near King Viserys and the Hand. The seat was empty next to you. You introduced yourself quietly, picking at your dress. One of Daemon’s girls, Rhaena, spoke, “It is wonderful to meet you, a fellow Valyrian.” Rhaenyra’s eldest boy chimed in, “Not very much of us around here!”

You laughed and joked, “We’re not as beautiful as your houses, but yes we can trace our ancestry back. We wanted a smaller desolate rock with people that hated us I’m afraid.”

They laughed around, even the quiet Helaena. She was exceedingly kind, but off. You chatted with the dragon seeds before asking, “May I ask, where is-.”

The dead-silent Aemond spoke, turning his intense gaze upon you, “He’s either hungover, asleep, bedding a whore, or all three I’m afraid Lady Celtigar.”

Your face fell but you lightly surmised, “I had heard as such. Even at this age?”

The Valyrians all nodded in unison. Jacaerys teased, “Since he’s gone so much that wouldn’t stop you from ahem- taking matters into your own hands.” Baela squawked and Aemond waved his hand muttering about moon-tea. The sweet Helaena grabbed your palm, her amethyst eyes searching your soul. She deadpanned, “The trap will be set.” You tore your gaze away, disturbed.

The young Lucaerys waved the dreamy Targaryen off and started about training with Ser Harwin— Aemond rolling his eyes. The stoic second son unnerved you even at such a young age. He was two-and-twelve and dreadfully serious.

With a yelp and a curse, Aegon Targaryen, second of his name stumbled in the room. Ser Westerling shook his head and marched the drunken boy into his chair. You scrunched your nose at his disheveled state. Aemond pinched his brother and the Velaryon blooded Targaryens giggled.

Aegon turned slowly to stare at you, glazed eyes surveying your form. He was probably seeing double from the way he closed a purple eye. The adults watched in horror, Viserys looking pale in the face. Daemon smirked, murmuring something in High Valyrian to the Princess Rhaenyra. Your cheeks flushed in embarrassment, a sudden need to slap the boy silly arising.

He slurred, “Y’ma betthrowed? Naht bad for ah crab! Bih’ skinny for m’tastes.” The thoroughly disheveled prince devolved into a fit of high-pitched giggles. You bit your tongue til it bled. Lord Celtigar’s gnarled hands drew white gripping the table. Alicent marched up and grabbed Aegon by the ear, hissing and spitting. He protested but stumbled along, falling down multiple times. Silence ensued before Otto and the King apologized and dinner returned.

Your appetite had left you, choosing to swirl the mash around your plate. The rest of the children shot looks of pity. You sniffled to hide your angry tears. What an absolute ass— the warnings were not enough. You bitterly remarked, “At the least the sot finds me comely.” A couple of chuckles filled the table and that was the last it was discussed.

You lamented your existence in your chamber. As much as a girl of twelve-and-ten could. If your possible betrothed was that much of an uncouth drunkard you would reconsider the elder Lord Crabb. Not like it mattered anyways— you were simply a pawn. Staring out into the bay you thought about sailing away. You’d probably get drowned or sold to Lys but the thought was soothing.

Your grandfather chuckled when he saw your frame bundled up on a chair. He ambled over and sat across from you. Petulantly you kept your mouth shut, eyeing your kin. He placed a spotted hand on your shoulder, smiling. You croaked, “What is so lighthearted about this grandsire?”

He replied, “Regardless of the young prince’s antics, the pair of you will be married in years time. He has sobered up and given his approval. For the time being, you will stay in King’s Landing as a lady-in-waiting for Princess Helaena.”

You spat, “I am honored to serve my family. Even is my betrothed is a drunken wretch. Please do visit, or send my brother, I fear I will be eaten alive.”

Bartimos guffawed, even taking to slap his knee. He leaned in and and spoke lowly, “Give the boy time. The prince will see what’s right in front of him, then that’s when you dig your claws in. My girl, who mentions King Jaehaerys without good Queen Alysanne? Be a lady, worship the Gods, and bide your time. Boy can’t see past his cock currently. Claw Isle is a mere ride from here, I will be watching.”

Your grandfather’s blunt words warmed your heart and set you to laughing, bringing happy tears to your eyes. In a flurry you hugged the sour crab and thanked him. He murmured, “The crabs feed on the helpless, just wait and see.”

A couple of months later

The royal children scampered around the secret beach under the Red Keep. Baela and Aemond had argued over an age-old pirate hiding his treasure in one of the many alcoves exposed when the tide was drawn. So down they went, Aemond snootily declaring when the best time was based on the moon. Jace snorted under his breath, “Cad.”

You and Aegon were at odds end; bickering and caught in petty bets. He shoved past you down the crumbling stairs, you sending a boot to his skinny legs. He stumbled and shrieked, “Piss off crab!” You huffed and stomped down. Luke nervously looked around, quavering. Rhaena seemed ecstatic, holding the dark headed boys hand.

Once on the shore, Baela pointed at a particularly jagged cave opening. She declared, “Thats the description that Aemond and I found!” Aemond sniffed, “We have two hours until tide surges back in, let’s go.” Aegon yawned, rolled his eyes, and swaggered forward to the cave. You followed along, picking up a seashell or two along the way. Your betrothed snorted, “What are you, Joff now?”

You tossed a pebble at him and shouted, “It reminds me of home you cretin! Keep moving!”

Aegon glared and trailed behind Baela. She stopped at the edge of the opening and turned around. She informed, “It’s going to get wet, but we have to be fast. Everyone got a weapon?” The group held up their daggers dutifully. Aemond charged in, his boots sinking thigh deep. Aegon groaned, “Greaaat.”

You shoved him forward and held the rear as Luke and Rhaena tromped in the darkness. Baela lit a torch, illuminating the cave. The gloom went further on. You hummed, “Maybe Helaena could’ve used her weird prophecies.” The princess had declined the adventure, informing you to bring her back a beautiful shell. Aegon groaned in disgust and barked at Rhaena to keep going.

Down and down they went until the kids stumbled upon an old chest. Luke yelped, “Gods! It’s real!”

Aemond snipped, “We don’t know yet fool.”

Jace bristled and you murmured some calming words. Aegon complained, “Pry it open then. I’d like to not drown any time soon.” Baela shushed the eldest and gathered Jace to wedge their daggers under the lid. With a crack it opened. The kids all gathered around to peer over it. Inside lie a strange jade figurine and some gold coins.

“Treasure,” Rhaena cheered!

Aemond’s eyes glanced about and he hastily demanded, “Tide’s rising. Let’s go. Crab, grab the stuff you have a bag.” Your eyes narrowed at the idiotic nickname Aegon had given you and unfortunately had stuck. You dutifully stuffed the items away. The tide was rising quicker than expected, everyone scrambling to leave.

Luke coughed up seawater on the shore, Rhaena patting his back softly. Aegon brooded like a wet cat. Everyone was accounted for. You snapped, “Thanks for the help when my foot was caught! Pompous ass.” Aegon shrugged disdainfully. You threw another pebble at him.

3 years later

Times had changed as of late. Rhaenyra had taken her children and Daemon’s girls to Dragonstone. There was a horrid incident involving the loss of Aemond’s eye by his cousin. You missed them dearly. Life was dreary. Helaena was sweet as could be but you were bored. She wasn’t the talkative type. Aemond dug into his studies and training. Aegon had reached the age of 6 and 10 and dove into his second passion besides drinking himself into oblivion; fucking anything with a hole. You eventually found yourself so deprived you asked for some lessons on defense from Ser Criston, the knight accepting happily.

So you had a regimen where you visited the knight a couple days a week to learn swordsmanship, brawling, and throwing off a wayward man. Aemond had quietly even thrown a compliment. Today you wrestled with a page boy, digging him into the ground. Ser Criston clapped, giving pointers.

The mood was promptly ruined by the grating voice of your betrothed.

Aegon stood with his unkempt long locks. You could smell the perfumes of the whore house and wine pouring off of him. Aemond rolled his eye, putting down his sword. The eldest prince remarked, “So you wrestle in the mud like a common beggar? Fitting for a crab.” Criston snapped, “Forgive me your grace but she is out here unlike some people I know.”

You pulled up the page boy and glared at the asshole. You snarled, “I bet your soft belly wouldn’t last a second against me, lazybones.”

Aegon’s pale fists clenched and his face gained red splotches. He hissed, “Why would I get in the mud with a weak girl?” Aemond piped up uncharacteristically with chicken noises. Throwing his hands up, Aegon snarled, “Fine. Let me put my hair up, wench.” You got into stance, ready to show the spoiled princeling.

He lunged and you slid between Aegon’s long legs, wrapping your arms around them. With an ‘oof’ he hit the ground. You wrestled on top of him, lightly shoving and punching. This was very cathartic for you. Aegon shouted horrid obscenities and kicked at you. Your hand gripped around his long throat, your mouth set into determination.

“Yield yellow belly!,” you demanded with another squeeze.

Aegon’s face grew very, very red. A pitiful noise left his throat, the boys eyes looking pointedly away. Then you felt the length between your legs. You gasped and got off, giving the perverted prick another kick to the side. You’d never seen Aemond and Criston laugh that hard in your life. As you trudged off, the elder son stared around in bewilderment before screeching at the men in the vicinity.

2 years later

If you had the choice you’d put Aegon’s head on a spike. He’d do the absolute same. When he wasn’t salaciously flirting with you…often followed up by an insult. Cards spread out on your table, a flagon between you two. He purred, “What do I get when I win?” You frowned and shuffled your cards. When you stared at the prince you grumbled, “You’d get your pox riddled dick cut off— do the realm a favor.” Aegon glared, “So bitter at a young age.”

“I’m a year younger than you loutish pig.”

He waved a hand and the pair of you started to play. Every round you had won, the increasingly annoyed prince demanded another go. The flagon had been replaced by that point too, mainly swallowed down by the blonde. You teased, “Seven above Aegon, you are simple!” Aegon’s cheeks flushed adorably hideously and he threw the cards across the table in anger.

Yelping you chided, “Really? Grow the fuck up.”

Aegon crossed his arms and muttered, “I don’t want to play the dumb cards anymore.”

“What? Do you want to play come-in-to my castle, blanket up a Red Keep like babes?”

Aegon leaned over the table and lecherously glared at you. He hummed lowly, “How about I come into your castle, Celtigar?”

You promptly slapped the shit out of him. Aegon held his cheek, eyes wide and pouty lips gaping. You grumbled, “This is not my idea of fun. Go to the brothel for that. I have to see to Helaena.”

Aegon sputtered but couldn’t form words, gaping after your retreating figure. Aemond’s voice called from behind, “Definitely not an idea of fun brother. The crab does not like you.” Aegon grumbled, “Tell me about it.” He held his cheek in heat, but his chest flip-flopped in a strange way.

1 year later

Helaena sung a melodic song in the Godswood. Her and Aemond’s children played about with a servant. Jaehaerys and Jaehaera were gorgeous children, cracking open the sealed off part in your heart that yearned for love and childbearing.

Too bad you had the most idiotic, philandering, vain soon-to-be husband. The wedding was in plan for the fall. Winter was coming after all. The Starks had a point with that. The pair of you had ignored each other, Aegon did whatever debauchery that filled his free time while you read and accompanied sweet Helaena.

You paused and stared at the bleeding face of the Weirwood. Helaena hummed, “The weirwoods. They watch all of us. Silently, but there. They know everything.”

Holding back a snarky rebuttal you questioned, “Do you think the Trees know if my prince will consider me to be human eventually?”

Helaena stopped her fine needlepoint and grew silent. The whispering of the trees filled the garden. Even the children gazed up from their toys. That look of hers was upon you. The look that saw something you would never fathom. The past, present, and future. She whispered, “The broken dragon needs a shell.”

You hoped her strange words would alleviate something. Never in the way you expected per usual. She returned to her needlepoint, a knowing smile on her lips.

In a different part of the castle, Aegon was in his cups, again. Aemond sat with with his long legs primly crossed. The one-eye groused, “What could you possibly want drunkard?” Aegon bemoaned, “I think I am attracted to my future wife.” His brother snorted and leaned on his elbow, waiting for elaboration. The elder brother continued, “She’s beautiful, strong-willed, sexily stubborn, long legs, nice tea-“

Aemond waved a hand, “No more. If you didn’t act like a right prat to the young crab then maybe she’d be more willing. I’m going to be blunt. The lady is not interested in a whore-mongering, khat snorting, drunk arsehole. My only advice is go grovel at her feet if your simple self hasn’t ruined that.” Aegon shoved some bread in his mouth and bolted, leaving the second son to shaking his head, a smirk on his thin lips.

Later that evening you had retired to your quarters, reading a book on the history of Yi Ti. The grand maester had lent it to you due to your fixation on the wild lands of Essos. Your eyes flickered up at a crash. Your betrothed fell in. Literally. You slammed your book down and spat, “Gods! A warning?” Aegon’s teary eyes met yours.

You remained seated and questioned, “What the hells are you doing here? Don’t bring your drunken nonsense to my quarters!” Aegon responded with an ungainly crawl to your knees. You batted off his grasping hands until he held them clenched on his thighs.

You deadpanned, “Did Otto put you up to this? No I’m not bedding you either.”

Aegon sniffled, shaking his head. You watched as his tangled tresses swung around. Pity grew in your stomach. You snapped, “Out with it?” Aegon asked so, so softly, “Can I hold your hands?” You remained skeptical until pausing to stare into his violet orbs. With a sniff you placed them into his palms. The prince’s warm hands enveloped yours, squeezing tightly.

He croaked, “I- I- fuck. I think something is wrong with me. Is it too late for forgiveness?”

“Of course something is wrong with you,” you ignored the man’s second question.

You jolted when the blonde shouted, “No!,” he grew quiet, “I mean no.”

He continued, “I was dumb. I need you. I’m cracked in the head, broken, nothing makes me happy anymore.”

You crossed your legs, dumbfounded at Aegon’s words. You questioned, “Is this a farce? You despise me…I despise you. This is a political union.”

Aegon’s wide eyes poured tears. He whimpered, “On the seven- just give me a chance. Let me try to be good to you m’lady. I don’t want to go into a loveless marriage like they did.” You knew he was mentioning his parents. Squeezing the distraught dragon’s hands you let out a soft noise.

You stated, “If we work together, I think this could be a good idea. Now quit your weeping. Let us go sit on a roof and we can make terms. Forgiveness is earned, not given.” Aegon nodded, holding onto your palms for dear life.

Aegon mumbled, “I don’t despise you. You’re just…intimidating. Someone I wish I could be.”

You sighed, “Maybe. Just maybe I do not despise you. Just need some…discipline.” You grabbed his palm and pressed a gentle kiss to it, the prince’s breath hitching. Happy tears sprung to his sullen face. You hoped you were making a good idea and could have fun from the broken dragon’s changes.

[askhaley]

I like woman

You (probably) like woman

We should be girlfriends

You're right, I do like women. As for that other part... I'll have to think about it further before I give you an answer. You've got a lot of competition, after all!

[recurring-polynya]

Izakaya Kamenoya, Part 4

All right, it is time for the final article in my series on Izakaya Kamenoya, the bar all the shinigami drink at in filler episodes! Today, I will be making a valiant attempt to identify what kind of food items are available! Bleach is rather famous for portraying food as blobby lumps, so wish me luck!!

The history of izakaya is pretty interesting, but they basically evolved out of sake shops that started serving food to attract customers and also to entice them to hang out (and keep spending money). They tend to serve small plates, which are shared. This can span a really wide range, though, from just a few basic bar snacks, up to a fancy restaurant. Izakaya Kamenoya tends towards the more full-service. According to the article I linked above, people didn't do a lot of cooking at home in the Edo era--they cooked rice at home and purchased pickles and other simmered goods to top it with. This fits right into the Seireitei to me--shinigami have demanding jobs and disposable income (at least moreso than Rukongai folks), so they love to eat out.

Check out this Ladies' Night Spread, for example:

That looks like two big platters of sashimi in the middle to me, and that's clearly tamagoyaki (rolled omelet) on the far right.

The episode very kindly gave us this close-up of Assorted Meat Skewers.

I am not quite sure what the brown slabs served over lettuce are...tonkatsu (breaded pork cutlets), perhaps?

In this shot you can also see some little fish. This looks similar to a picture I found of eihire (grilled stingray fins, served with mayonnaise), so I am assuming this is a something similar.

Boys' Night Out is going to be less fancy, because the boys in question are broke, but it's generally the same stuff-- sashimi, tamagoyaki, skewers, BUT they also have this cool table-top grill! It's called a shichirin, apparently, and is often used to grill yakitori, which it looks like exactly what they're doing. I feel strongly that this is a thing Iba is super into. Like, you go out drinking with Iba, you know he's getting the shichirin. The fact that shichirin translates to "seven wheels", cements this even harder into my heart: it is both grilling (manly!) and a reference to Squad Seven, what is not to love?

How about captains? Ukitake and Kyouraku seem like a pair of guys who enjoy a good meal.

LET'S TALK ABOUT THAT FISH.

So. Um. Well, it looked to me like it was a fish that had been made into sashimi and then the sashimi was sort of arranged over the skeleton of the fish, with the head in tact (If you are not able to tell how I was able to discern that from this potato-quality screenshot, it's fine, I'm not so sure either). Anyway, I looked that up to see if it was a thing and it sure is! It's called ikizukuri and you do it while the fish is still alive. Today, it's a controversial practice, but Soul Society be Soul Societin'!

In less upsetting news, it looks like they each have a little cup of chawanmushi (egg custard with savory mix-ins, like mushrooms or shrimp). Also, lots of skewers and bowl of colors (pickles maybe?)

I also have this shot from Kyouraku and Amagai's first venture, but I can't tell what anything is:

Clearly a less impressive spread, but they only just got there, so maybe there's more to come. Croquettes in the middle perhaps? I would guess that those little square cups are matcha pudding but Kyouraku hates matcha. The smaller plate kinda looks like more skewers, but it also seems to small to be skewers.

Moving on the other end of the price scale, what does the Extra Value Menu at Kamenoya look like? I'm sure Hisagi and Kira know!

The anime did not give much help here. It looks like they have more of those ?tonkatsu?. Kira's got a plate of...sliced cucumbers maybe? The beige lump in the middle has some colored specks in it, so I'm guessing a fried rice of some sort.

As a final note, I love these little blue cups of orange bulbs that Kira's emotional support team is enjoying here (also more tamagoyaki). They seem like they should be easily identifiable, but they don't look like anything in the two dozen "things to eat at an izakaya" articles I read for this. Is it a fruit? Is it chestnuts? If you have an idea (or you can identify anything else that I couldn't) please let me know!

earlier posts in this series: (part 1) (part 2) (part 3)

[skyloftian-nutcase]

No pressure ifbyou arent taking writing requests, but i would love to see what you could do based off the song Battle Cries by The Amazing Devil

It gives me Skyward Sword vibes

Link stared at the loftwing feather held gingerly between his fingers.

The last few months had been... difficult. In some ways, they'd been more difficult than his actual journey to rescue Zelda and stop Demise. The pain of pushing his body past its breaking point, the anguish of never seeming to be enough, the heartache of always missing Zelda... they had amounted to such invisible wounds that he was still fighting the repercussions.

Somehow, that was worse. How was one supposed to move on when such a life altering event happened? How did one jolt out of the keep moving keep going don't ever stop or falter for a second and not just... collapse? How did one get back up after doing so?

The world continued to move ahead. His academy still had classes, though chatter of the Surface and its exploration was still a hot topic, even six months after the cloud barrier's disappearance.

The first month it had been acceptable, even understandable. Link had nearly died from his final fight, it had been one thing too many in a collection of wounds and exhaustion. Despite the healing affects of the life fruit he'd been given, he'd still slept for nearly a week upon his return to Skyloft. And after that, the headmaster had ensured he didn't have any kind of workload. Zelda had been at his side constantly, and the two had silently enjoyed each other's company, seemingly cut off from the rest of their people.

But that had been understandable. It had been a long journey. They would never be the same.

However, that didn't excuse this exhaustion lingering for so long. By the fourth month, Link was nearing a point of despair. It wasn't until Commander Eagus spoke to him candidly, told him of the affects on his mind after such an event (no one on Skyloft truly comprehended what had happened on the Surface, but some had put more pieces together than they probably should have). After all, Eagus had become commander when his own commanding officer had fallen in battle. Eagus hadn't fought as Link had, but he still understood to a small degree.

It had helped. To a point. Knowing that his mind needed time was good, that he wasn't just defective, but... it still didn't make it any easier to bear sometimes.

And that was only covering half of the issue. Eagus only spoke from a soldier's perspective. Link had seen more than battle. He'd watched his best and dearest friend become someone else entirely, he'd been told that their friendship was a carefully constructed plan, that he was a weapon as much as Fi had been.

He still hung around Zelda. She still hovered close to him. She'd said it herself, she was still his Zelda. But it... wasn't the same.

He tried not to think about it. After all, he did still love her. After all, she hadn't known any of the plan their entire lives.

But it stung. It stung. Because now... if he had been chosen for this purpose, and if Zelda had been born in the right circumstances so as to befriend him... now what?

What was his purpose now that his journey was over? Now that Demise had been defeated?

Link had never really had much of a plan for his life, honestly. He'd daydreamed his time away, relaxing and just enjoying being with Zelda and his loftwing, enjoying sights and smells and warmth and comfort. He was in the knight's academy, so becoming a knight was obviously a goal, but he had never felt particularly motivated for major life goals. He wasn't much of a planner, certainly not that far ahead.

But now... all he could think about was the future. All he could think was now what?

He knew, though. He knew what to do next. Because six months was enough time to let himself float in this haze of existing and not existing. He also knew it probably wouldn't get entirely better. But life wasn't going to stop just because he had, and for once, that meant something to him.

Link carefully wove the feather shaft into the leather cords, tying it in its place. He'd added beads to the headdress already - his loftwing's contribution was the final touch.

Because yes, he was tired. And yes, he wasn't entirely sure if his mind would ever clear of the fog that had crushed it since his journey's end. But no matter how he felt, his perception of hte world didn't change how it was.

Zelda was still there for him. The Surface was vast, endless even, and so, so new and different. The Triforce needed protecting. Zelda had already made plans for a settlement, and, with Groose's help, was in the process of setting foundations, while Link cleared the area of threats. There was hope, there was new life and a future and things beyond Link's comprehension.

His loftwing purred, bumping his beak against Link's forehead.

Link chuckled, nuzzling into his companion's feathery cheek, melting into the softness of it. "Yeah, I know. Let's go for a flight and then I'll go to her."

Crimson chittered excitedly, moving quickly towards the edge and diving off the island. Link stood there a moment, alone, and then smiled, tucking the headdress into his pouch. He felt anxiety hold him hostage a moment, and then he broke free of it, running full speed to the island's end and leaping with every ounce of energy he had.

The air whipped and whooshed around him, slamming into him layer after layer as he crashed through the sky. His wounds and worries were left behind, and he yelled in excitement and joy, he screamed in defiance at everything that weighed him down.

At the end of the day, nothing could clip his wings. Not even himself. He refused to let it.

Putting his fingers to his mouth, Link whistled shrilly, and his loftwing immediately came. He could always rely on Crimson. He knew, in the end, he could also always rely on Zelda.

And that headdress, alongside a traditional dance, would be the start of a physical representation of that.

In the meantime, his mind and heart soared with his loftwing, and he laughed as he flew through the sky.