#SO I HAD TO ... UGH OUCH MY MONEY . WHY

[dballzposting]

So so so so grateful that I dont care about most Dragon Ball guys or forms. So so so thankful becasue I save so much money on not caring at all about most figurines. I do spend $35 on Champa Funko Pop thoigh

[erideights]

Little pieces here and there (5)

Pairing: Buggy x Fem!Reader (One Piece Live Action)

Chapters: one, two, three, four

Word Count: 3K

Warnings: light flirting, light metion of sex, a lot of feelings, super fluff (in their particular way)

A/N: I'M BACK WITH THE NEW AND LAST (????) CHAPTER OF THE SERIES AFTER AN HIATUS WEEK. I wanted to post something good, something beautiful, true to the characters and the story you all enjoyed reading as much as i writing! (sorry for the possible grammatical mistakes!)

Side note: this chapter is to be read with different time frames, so changing the lights of the room and their resting positions in bed!

"Say it."

"Nope."

"Why not!?" he whines, his beautiful dove eyes pleading. "C'mon baby. Say it. I deserve it. All the awards. All the honors." The fact he’s beneath her, trapped between her body and the mattress, doesn't help make him look less submissive. She has to admit, it’s extremely pleasant to see how his dignified ass drags himself for her.

"But it would be a lie," she says, sticking out her tongue in a gesture intended to make him suffer a little more. Unbelievable that this is the same man who forced her to beg for sex a couple of hours ago. "and I’m no liar."

''Didn't seem like a lie to me when you were moaning my name and cumming on my cock for the third time some minutes ago.'' Ah, there it is, his ego is back again. Or at least, a glimpse of it. Took a while to appear. 

In front of him, (Y/N) just smiles devilishly, which makes Buggy growl and look at her with pleading eyes again. "Look, we already established I know and even like how you need to play difficult, it's part of your charisma, but I need to hear it, okay? I will give you anything your wayward, fussy heart could desire. Consider it a prize."

''Anything?''

''Anything.''

Hmm. She plays along, and pretends to think about it for long, torturous seconds, shaking her head from side to side in slowmo, taking a deep breath. 

As expected, soon enough she decides to give in-- she’s satisfied after making him beg in her own particular way.

''Fine.'' She takes a breath and starts her dramatic performance, with one hand on her own chest, eyes closed. ''Oh, Buggy, you were right, you are the best lover I’ve ever had, thanks to you my soul has ascended and I have seen the One Piece.''

That is not the praise he was expecting about his sexual skills. Not even close. But was so /him/, so dramatic, exaggerated, and incredibly hilarious, that despite faking offense on his face, eyes half-closed, lips pressed together, fingers pinching her hips as punishment, he has to admit -he will not-, was funny.

''You're a moron'' That’s about everything he has to say on the matter.

‘’Like Ol’Axe-Hand?’’ She asks, raising an eyebrow, hoping he gets it. And of course he does. He's so surprised that he widens his eyes, smirking. Is she actually admitting how incredibly funny he is? ''You still remember that joke?''

''Was so bad it stuck with me since then like a fucking nightmare.'' Hit and sunk.

''Ouch''

"Don't worry, there's still time to improve the quality of your jokes. But for now I'll take the prize you promised.''

''Ugh, fine. What do you want?’' Buggy thinks he knows (Y/N), so he’s convinced she will ask for something impossible. A challenge that will ridicule him or an astronomical sum of money. ''If what you want are berries I’m sorry to inform you, sunshine, I'm broke, I still have to find...'' but the clown shuts himself when he feels the girl's fingers slowly caressing his sharp jaw, finally pulling him by his chin towards her. He leans in too, eyes fixed on her lips, yearning for the kiss he can see so clearly written in the dreamy way she looks at him.

There’s no need to announce it, nor to start it with their usual flirting or provocations. It's slow and doesn't demand anything at all, nor is intended to be the trigger of their next round.

It's just a kiss. Something so simple and intrinsically complex at the same time. And in the same way as if it had been the most fiery and passionate of his life, as not long ago, this kiss leaves him breathless, unable to form a single coherent thought that has nothing to do with her.

Oh, he’s down bad. Just like she is.

              …

And there they are on the mattress, she’s sitting on his lap, legs around him, his hands on her hips, hers on his abdomen in a relaxed pose. The scene is typical of two lovers who have known each other for a lifetime -or at least for years- and not of two people who just had the wildest sex of their lives less than a couple hours ago. For the first time. 

They tell each other anecdotes, surreal stories, and laugh together inside that little bubble they don't even know how it was created, where it came from, or how the hell it could have absorbed them so much, making them completely ignore the outside world.

"What do you mean a giant bird!?" she screams in laughter, her stomach hurting, her lungs burning. "Aha, yeah, laugh all you want but imagine thinking that you’re about to die turned into damn bird feed. It would fucking piss me off."

As it can’t be otherwise, (Y/N) ends up laughing until she cries with the story of how Buggy arrived at Loguetown, and the clown finds himself exaggerating his story more and more with each laugh he manages to get from the girl, eager to hear it again, knowing he’s the only cause of this beautiful melody.

It’s absurd how he would love -kill- to know more about her, ‘cause if he stops to think about it, he doesn't know this woman at all. He knows nothing beyond her name, her crew, and the fact that she has a bold sense of humor. She’s brave and sarcastic, keen, sharp, and much more intelligent and savvy than -in his opinion- all the idiots around her.

And this is how and when he realizes the post-nut clarity theory hasn't worked for him. Getting her out of his twisted mind will not be as easy as fucking her a couple times, get his needed ton of personal satisfaction from making her beg for him, and moving on to the next thing to do/achieve on his list.

Goddamnhim.

"Alright, as much as I love and enjoy being the main character, it's time for you to drop your femme fatale facade and show me who you truly are."

"Awh,’’ she smiles tenderly, reaching for one of his cheeks. ‘’you see me like a femme fatale? That's so cute."

"Cut the crap.’’ The clown slaps her hand away, not in a violent way, but offended. ‘’You're not easily intimidated and I noticed you're good with knives too. That's sexy, and it makes me curious as hell about what you did before you joined those shitty heads."

Fair enough, she would be curious too, so she thinks about it, a bit wary of talking about her private life because there is a part of her that prefers to keep it intact -in case she wants to come back to it-. However, she reasons, mentioning what she did without being very specific doesn’t reveal anything at all. It would piss her off if Buggy casually knows her mercenary name -by which she’s fairly known among marines and pirates alike- and connects some dots all of a sudden. 

Is he actually that smart?

"I was a mercenary." She says calmly, shrugging her shoulders. "With that angelic face?" He retorts in disbelief, raising both eyebrows, even though he knows it fits her personality just right. "You'd be surprised what you're capable of with it."

"No, no, I actually believe you." He cracks an amused smile, looking directly into her eyes after carefully scanning her face. ''I mean, If someone like you tried to sneak onto my ship I would know it’s a trap, either to kill me or to steal from me but I would end up saying ''whatever you say beautiful'' and would actually let you do your thing.''

He's an idiot but still, once again, he manages to make her laugh. “Looking like that, anyone would give you anything,” he adds because he is, in fact and undoubtedly, willing to give her a little more of himself. More time and more attention, because he should definitely be out there gathering his crew -only God knows what they'll be doing- and figuring out how to get to the Grand Line without a damn map.

The idea of asking her, or even suggesting she steals it for him, doesn't even cross his mind. Not even after having shared this /intimate/ afternoon together. He knows she won't do it, she doesn’t own him shit, she’s not one of these women who fall in love and suddenly do everything, and leave everything behind, for the man of their dreams.

And of course Buggy can see the way she looks at him, without an ounce of contempt or distaste for his extravagant appearance or the atrocities he's sure she knows he's committed and of which he's not one bit ashamed. She sees him as he is and still, she’s here, offering him back something as valuable as her time and company.

But she won't give him more, he is aware of that. That's why he didn't offer (Y/N) to run away with him when he escaped from Arlong Park, because as much as she enjoys his company and maybe, just maybe, the clown imagines, feels something for him, he has the impression she’s a disgustingly loyal person, to her principles and her people, and as much as she likes to flirt with him, she would have said no.

He must admit, that's also how he likes her. Strong, capable, independent. He would kill no matter who to have her by his side as part of his crew, although he knows it won't happen. He would settle, however, with the -hypothetical- opportunity to meet from time to time on the high seas or on any random island. To sneak away from their crews in secret, to disappear for a few hours in which all his attention, his entire being, could focus on her, lower the curtain just a little, leave the spotlight behind and relax.

There is a small part of him, the one that makes him unable to stop looking intensely at her with those blue eyes that mirrors his own soul, that truly hopes she feels the same.

…

''You know'' she starts, absently stroking his hair, the clown's head in her lap. ''I imagine-- no, I know the whole nose topic is a sensitive thing for you but honestly, it shouldn't-- big noses are incredibly attractive, and yours? Believe me, anyone would want to sit on it.’’

What.

He's so taken aback by the suddenness of the comment he completely forgets what they were talking about before and on top of that, he's unable to reply for some seconds, looking at her like she just started speaking in another, incomprehensible language.

He ends up raising an eyebrow, running his tongue over his red lips. ''Including you?''

''Including me''

''Well, sunshine, today's your lucky day then'' Sitting up, in a blink of her eyes he turns, catches the girl's hips and drags her with him, lying down, leaving her sitting on his chest while he rest his head on the pillow. Buggy winks at her, licking his lips again, this time cheekily rather than thoughtfully. “I’m about to make another one of your dreams come true.”

''Horny bastard.'' she whispers, swallowing saliva. What a view, having him between her legs again. ''Never denied, sweetheart'' with a low, erotic, and breathtaking laugh, he surrounds both her thighs with his arms and pulls her body up in a quick movement, causing a sudden brush of his nose against the inside of her thigh.

(Y/N) shudders and takes a deep breath, spreading her legs a little further as she settles them on the pillow. ''Show me what else you can do, captain.'' To that he just groans, already getting hard with just having her on top of his face and her way of talking to him, pushing his buttons just the right way.

In no time she’s a complete, total, and absolute mess, writhing with pleasure. Hands grabbing his hair, hips rocking over his mouth, forcing his nose to rub against her clitoris, she softly moans his name, an occasional insult or any other possible blasphemy.

''Oh, fuck-- Buggy.''

…

Worn off makeup all around her body, sun setting, long hours spent together in which they have told funny, long stories about each other's life and of course, in which they have ended up letting free -once again- that suffocating sexual tension that attracts them to the other like a month to a lamp. Buggy, surprisingly, ends up letting his guard down to the point where he falls asleep, and not long after, he starts snoring.

(Y/N) knows, it's time to leave and look for her friends. She also knows she warned them about her obsession with the city and that the chances of her getting lost were high, and in that case they should not worry about her, blablabla, because she would come back sooner or later. She didn’t even remotely expect the reason for her disappearance would be a self-declared enemy -Luffy’s enemy- of her crew, tho. Neither was she going to spend so much time away from them to be with him.

The excuses she will need to cover her tracks are endless, and a pain in the ass without even started to think about them yet.

Will Zoro still be lost somewhere on the island? Because she obviously assumed, he got lost as soon as they split.

Still in bed, she takes a moment to calmly look at him. (Y/N) is aware of how this may be the last time they ever see each other, and -not- surprisingly, this thought sparks a pang of sadness in her. She really likes him. She wouldn't say she is in love with him, because those are big words and they barely know each other yet, but... he was right, the chemistry between the two was something impossible to deny. And it hasn't weakened, nor disappeared a single bit after sex. Quite the opposite-- It has become something more, a kind of deep and sincere fondness that in this precise moment, dark outside, distant voices over the window from drunkards and bastards around the streets, his breathing calm for a fraction of second, his eyes closed and the fresh breeze that enters the room, invites her to caress his blue hair while he sleeps, sighing.

It’s been a long, long time since (Y/N)’d enjoyed this kind of genuine, absolute peace, sharing with someone she cares about, a room where time does not exist and life is just a thought instead of reality.

Part of her wishes or better said, acknowledges, she would stay here the entire night if she could. The other says that’s ridiculous, and that those are her hormones talking and nothing else. It would pass.

But does she want it to pass? To fade away?

Finally getting out of bed -all her willpower at once- after long minutes in which she simply memorizes every possible detail around her, she begins to retrieve her clothes scattered throughout the room and get dressed in silence, trying not to wake him up.

Through all this process, in the depths of her head resonates a single thought, ringing as loud and strong as an alarm. She’s unable to shut it up. She can’t ignore it either. It's another kind of thought she shouldn't have, and at the same time… feels so natural, so logical, she doesn't feel guilty for having it.

But should she listen to it? Should she follow it?

Taking a seat in the chair that fulfilled its great purpose a few hours ago, she sighs, again, head resting on her hand, elbow on the table. With a small smile, her eyes fall back on that ridiculous, snoring clown. And then, she just knows.

Reaching to a little secret pocket in her pants, she takes out a small piece of folded paper and starts to open it slowly, being careful to not tear it apart, leaving it on the table of the room once the copy of the map of the Grand Line can be perfectly seen. When (Y/N) suggested her crew make a couple of copies in case something happened to the original, she never thought she would use hers like this, but she doesn't regret it in the slightest.

Biting the tip of her tongue, her eyes scan the partially darkened room, jumping from side to side. When she finally finds what she was looking for, she leans over the table, and taking the pen from the inkwell, she writes in the upper right corner of the map "I will be waiting for you right here, come find me" .

If someone asked her why she does this, why she feels this, why does she decide to ignore her common sense and give something so important to someone as -objectively- miserable as him, she would simply answer that there are things… or better said-- not things, but the little pieces here and there, pieces of himself left in her during conversations, shared glances, laughter, flirts, light touches and the deep strong ones that came after those. It's the way he tried to make her laugh at all costs or how he didn't give up trying to win her over. Those blue eyes so intense she would swear, they reached her soul, or the small, genuine smile she knows she has seen this same afternoon, really far from the forced, crooked, exaggerated ones he usually has.

It is all of this and much more, and opening the door of the room, closing it again so that no one disturbs Buggy while she escapes the building and heads to her ship to find her crew, she knows she can't wait to see him again.

She knows she will. Her sixth sense tells her so.

[very-d1pper]

inspired by a post from @jamandjazz

How Johnny Cade, Dallas Winston, and Steve Randle are affected by their parent issues.

ok so keep in mind i havent read the book since december (i dont have my own copy) so this might be a bit wrong. im using info from my mind, the movie, the musical, tiktok, and here.

Johnny Cade

so its canon that johnny wouldve ran away if it werent for the gang (starting off strong with dally-johnny parallels OUCH)

the abuse from his parents definitely gave him a fucked up sense on what it means to feel loved

which is why johnny gets along with dally so well, i'll get into that more in dally's part

he 100% thinks that the entire world hates him except for the gang

someone said that he is so sweet its sick, not true. the abuse definitely toughened him up enough that he will be mean to strangers

he canonically is somewhat responsible (going out to the store to buy supplies and giving ponyboy a note)

im saying that because im pretty sure pony says something like twobit and someone else in the gang would forget to buy something johnny remembered

johnny learned that from having to live out on the street sometimes when his parents fought or kicked him out for multiple days

he is the living definition of forgive but never forget

he just wants a home

i personally hc that the abuse started as johnny grew older, maybe when he was 6-8 years old

which is why johnny (especially in the musical) still cares about his parents

because he remembers that they WERE good people

and he hopes to bring them back eventually

Dallas Winston

oh this man...

ran away from his problems. thats canon

his mom died when she gave birth and thats why his dad is the alcoholic deadbeat abuser he is

the abuse from his parents gave him a fucked up sense on what it means to love

which is why he can talk to johnny so well because johnny is used to the type of love dally gives

he 100% hates the world except for the gang

the abuse toughened up both johnny and dally, the thing is dally grew up with it, johnny was raised with love at first

also dally's environment in ny, that place is rough in many areas

tulsa doesnt have that, at least not on the level of ny

he's rough with everyone because thats what he learned

Steve Randle

UGH THIS MAN BRO

screw u se hinton for giving us NOTHING abt him

anyways!!

the neglect sooo fucked him up

then his dad giving physical money for forgiveness?

hell nahhh

steve definitely felt like he cannot be loved without paying someone

like with real money

which made him feel unlovable because he's like broke as fuck

soda was the first person to show him what love actually is

his mom uhh eloped to wherever after steve's birth ig idfk

steve thinks everything in the world comes with a price, even an ounce of love

i literally cant think of shit for this man rn

All Three

accidentally trauma bonding

johnny mentioned something then both steve and dally said "same"

genuinely concerning from an outsider standpoint but really funny to them

if it was modern au darry or soda wouldve sent them to therapy

one time johnny got kicked out and went to the curtis house and found steve in the kitchen

j: "kicked out?"

s: "...yeah"

j: "same."

then dally walks in

d: "bottles got thrown at me in buck's place"

j: "ptsd?"

d: "no-" *remembers he's with two people who had it happen to them* "...yeah"

j and s- "its good."

johnny convinces them to do a cuddle blob thing (the gang's done them before)

darry wakes up and see them, doesnt comment but remembers for blackmail

[secretlythepits]

Ugh.

I just had to explain AGAIN that Dad is dying to my 16 year old. He has been very wrapped up in his social life lately. It’s consumed him. Friends would ask how he’s doing (referring to my husband’s cancer) and I would say, he is not thinking about it. He’s in his own world. Everyone told me I was wrong.

Of course, I wasn’t. I’m his mom. I know him.

When my husband was coughing up his lungs, it was easy to see that he was sick. But for moths it hasn’t been that way. My husband is pathologically active. My son is also not home and hanging out a lot. When he’s here, he is usually playing video games, working out, talking on his phone, or napping. He has little awareness of how my husband is feeling. He’s very self-centered (both by age and his nature). It’s not that he’s not kind; it’s just he is completely tuned into his own experiences of life. We are all the blurry periphery.

Anyway, I had to explain to him how bad dad’s cancer is. I explained how all the treatments have failed. The cancer in his lungs had pushed into his spine. The clinical trial is the only option left and all it can do is buy time.

Months, not years.

Oof.

He was very interested and then done with the conversation. It’s a lot to take in.

This all came up after I was yet again telling him he needs to get a job. He found an expensive basketball program and wants to do it. He is mediocre and didn’t make the team this year, but he loves it. (Ouch) I feel for him, but we are living off of social security and this is another big expense, plus a likely difficult time commitment we probably can’t make. But I feel bad. How can I say, sorry kid, your dad is dying so we cant afford it plus we don’t have the time.!?!

I did say, he could try out and we’d see. I really don’t know if it’s possible financially or logistically. He has a “friend” who invites/ pressures him to do things and then we end up driving. His friend told him about this team. I told my son although I would be happy to do a carpool, there is no way we will drive “friend,” unless it is reciprocal. His parents need to step up. I mention that because I just feel like this kid uses my son and consequently, us. With our circumstances, that is a hard no. To be fair, I don’t know if this “friend’s” parents are unhelpful or unable to drive and I do feel for a kid trying to make life happen if his parents aren’t able to chauffeur him around. Still, I trust my gut and this feels like we are being used. I’m also playing my cancer card here.

I told my son there is no scenario where he just does basketball and doesn’t get a job. I think his plan is to get a basketball schedule that means he can’t work, but I really feel like it would be a good experience for him to have a job. I think he’s just nervous about interviews and a bit lazy. That’s why I’m nudging him. I asked him if he thinks he could get a job and contribute towards basketball. He was offended. He told me he plans on saving HIS money. (Big eye roll for a teen being a teen from me.)

He also criticized me for being a stressed driver and told me how much calmer he is when he’s driving. Well, maybe you should get a car and drive yourself. Maybe you need money for that, so get a job.

He tells me I should get a job.

I can’t right now. I’m the caregiver.

But Dad’s not sick.

—so that was the lead in to the conversation where I shattered his world.

Where are those boundaries I was talking about last post? Oh yeah, a figment of my imagination.

[atrizdelua]

"Okay, but I need you to at least go to the flower shop for me… seriously, Piper? Ugh, okay, I'll go get those damn flowers."

The loud sound of the car's passenger door being closed startled the two humans inside the vehicle. She gave an apologetic smile, but quickly wiped it off her face when she seemed to remember who was next to her.

"I could make you pay a fine for property damage."

She rolled her eyes after speaking, putting on her seat belt as she put her cell phone in her backpack.

"You know it doesn't work like that. Besides, if you're going to blame someone, blame your sister." She made it clear. "And I could make you pay a fine for harassment."

"You're the one who's slamming my car door like it was a battery." He accused, slightly offended.

"And you're the one who won't shut up and is simply taking up my precious time."

He stuck his tongue out at her, a childish attitude that made her sigh in pity for him. Turning on the left turn signal, he carefully pulled out of the parking space and onto the busy street. The two fell into a somewhat thick silence; they had never gone so long without exchanging a word, whether through teasing or sarcastic comments.

The young woman watched the outside movement through the dirty window, wrinkling her nose when she noticed the dust stains that prevented her from having a better view of the cars passing by her. He drummed his fingertips on the steering wheel, glancing at her sideways and, seeing her frowning face, prepared himself for her next move.

"How long has it been since you had this car washed?"

He almost smiled when her predictability was proven. Well, at least in relation to him, she was becoming predictable.

"For your information, it was washed last week."

"Then you should sue the company responsible," she said, running her finger along the glass and shuddering when she saw it slightly dusty. "This was the worst cleansing in human history. ."

"Why do you always want to sue someone?" he asked with a hint of amusement in his voice, and he also didn't let the slight exaggeration coming from her go by.

She shrugged, ignoring the hint of a smile in his voice.

"Why do you keep paying for mediocre work? Do you have some compulsion to lose money or something?"

"First of all, I don't throw my money away. People need jobs and I need services, it's the law of life." - he defended himself, holding back a laugh when he heard her snort.

"The wheels that move the world and all, I know, but that doesn't mean you have to put up with poorly done work just because someone is offering it."

"You talk as if I don't know how to judge."

"And you don't know it." She quickly declared, poking his cheek so he would turn his attention back to the road. "Your garage door is still stuck today just because you hired someone because she was "nice."

"But she was." He defended himself, laughing at the exaggerated air quotes she made.

"A pretty smile doesn't mean the person is trustworthy."

"Being grumpy doesn't mean it either." He muttered softly so she wouldn't hear. - "Ouch!" - Which didn't help, as proven by the pinch in his rib.

"I don't need to smile at everyone I meet. I've had enough of hearing that from idiots on the street, I don't need to hear it from you too."

She said seriously, she hated when people told her to smile, she felt she was being pressured to hide any feelings. "Get rid of that face, you must look beautiful when you smile," said a lady in a random store, "Give me a smile, cutie," said a strange idiot on the street, "People think you don't like them, smile a little more," her aunt said.

"Sorry," he asked quickly, noticing the expression on her face. "But I don't judge people badly, I just try… not to judge."

"And in the end you end up paying twice. The plumbing in your kitchen is proof of that."

"The guy said he'd been replacing pipes his whole life."

"Who knows which pipes he was talking about."

"What other pipes was he talking about?"

"And do I know? Humans are strange."

He laughed at her solemn expression, which brought a small smile to her face.

"So, we're here." He said, parking in front of a flower shop.

"I can't believe we're going to spend the afternoon preparing something that should have already been done."

Her grumble earned him a laugh, and he watched her get out of the car before unbuckled to follow him.

"There's no point in making that face." He opened the door for her. "I know you're happy to be in control of everything."

She wrinkled her nose at him as she got out of the car, ignoring the soft laughter that sounded behind her as she walked to the flower shop. The surprise baby shower, which was now their responsibility, had been dropped like a bomb on their laps after their best friend disappeared to go to a convention for antique watch lovers.

"You could buy me a bouquet, you know."

"For what reason?" She asked, stopping in front of the door to find him with an amused smile on her lips. - "For opening the car door for me?"

"Of course not." - he said laughing. - "Think of it as a reward for putting up with your great mood for years."

"You make me seem like a burden." - she wanted to sound sarcastic, but the discomfort she felt showed in her voice.

He sensed her discomfort, he could always read her in an almost frightening way.

"You will never be a burden to me." - he stated sincerely, bumping her shoulder with his. - "Look, they have roses, how about one to brighten up your day?"

She smiled at his dancing eyebrows.

"Don't be so cliché."

"What would become of us if the world wasn't a cliché?" - he opened the door, making a jingle of bells sound, stepping aside so she could pass in front. - "After you, Miss Page."

She stared at the open door, arching an eyebrow as she turned her attention to him. The teasing glint in Henry's eyes made her feel… anxious, in a good way. She decided to play along, if the subtle-not-so-subtle shift in energy between them was any indication, something new was about to begin.

"As you wish, Mr. Hart."

As she turned her back to him, she knew a smile was growing on his face. Henry watched Charlotte walk into the flower shop as always, confident and glowing with a new look; nodding slightly, he followed her, feeling hopeful for what the future held for them both.

[marshmallowprotection]

Wow your tags absolutely broke my heart for him :( The image you painted is heartwrenching and, unfortunately, also relatable in a way. Ouch. I know that feeling of wanting your abusive mother to be there, even if it means you'll probably have to bear through her harsh words or, in worse instances, physical beatings. Reminds me of than VN between him and Rika when he saw his mom dead. Ugh. I just want to hold him.

Yeah. I haven't been able to shake that one from my head when it comes to Ray and Suit Saeran's feelings about their birth mother. We're well aware that neither one of them hates her, even though there would never be any judgment if they did confess to hating Mother Choi somewhere along the line. GE Saeran says it best, I think, when it comes to how he feels about it.

As much as that woman tortured him, Saeran's view always comes to the same conclusion. "I don't think she was 100% evil. I think she was a cruel woman, but I can't find it in myself to hate her because... there was a time when she protected us from our Father." Now, I know he's not clueless. He knows that his Mother used him and Saeyoung to be able to get money for her addiction. He knows she didn't value them.

But, this is Saeran, he wants to understand why people come to the conclusions they do so he can better understand himself. He wants to know why his Mother was like that, but he'll never get the chance to speak to her because... she's dead. He wants to grieve her death, because nobody will. She wasn't a good person, but Saeran just can't imagine not giving her some kindness despite her never giving him a single ounce of kindness.

Saeran's got a kinder soul than anyone I've ever met. The people he offers kindness to don't deserve it, but he offers it because he wants to be better than they were to him. He wants to end the cycle of hurt and hatred in his own way, and I respect that. It's how he wants to get peace and it's important he has the chance to get what he needs for his closure.

How I phrased it in your tags is how I saw Suit Saeran's perspective on the matter when it came to his childhood. Even though he's well aware that being around his mother would be the worst thing for him, he still wanted her there because... having her there was better than being alone. He didn't want to be alone. He wanted to have someone there for him so the idea of succumbing to illness or isolation would never overwhelm him when he had to wait for Saeyoung or his Mom to come home.

Saeran's worst fear is being alone in the darkness.

No matter how complicated his feelings are about his mother, the idea of being alone until his very last breath is terrifying. Saeyoung always told his little brother that they were the same. If Saeyoung got something, then Saeran got it, too. If Saeyoung was strong, that meant that Saeran was strong, too. As long as they were together, they could be strong together, and without his older brother there to help him feel strong, the idea of strength is ripped away from them and rewritten. 

That's how Rika gets inside his head, after all.

To Saeran, in that thunderstorm of yours, he could only think of one thing. "Would I rather be alone in a house that might crumble in on me during a thunderstorm, or would I rather have my mother there, screaming at me during the storm for crying my eyes out?" He would rather have his Mother there. Because, at least then, he... wouldn't be all by himself. The twins strength comes from each other because it's all they had growing up, and tearing them apart rattles their peace of mind and comfort.

If he couldn't have his brother there, he would rather have the only other option afforded to him... even though that would mean he'd be trapped under his mother's abuse and cruelty. He would much rather choose to be with her because the option without her would leave him alone... and being alone means he's a sitting duck for his father to kill him, or for something else to destroy him first.

Would you rather pick the devil you know or the devil you don't? 

Sometimes, that's one of the main reasons why people are afraid to leave situations they're trapped in. They don't know if it'll be worse outside of what they already know, and they think they can handle what they've already been forced to go through. I understand that feeling quite well. 

The answer at the end of the day will always be to prioritize yourself and make sure that you're safe, even if you have to make it difficult decision in the end. But that doesn't mean you're not allowed to have complicated feelings about it, and this is a situation where there are complicated and messy feelings. I just... ugh. It's so complicated for Saeran and Ray when it comes to their mother, and they never get to have a more in-depth conversation about it, and even with GE Saeran and his feelings, there's not as much there as I wanted to hear about.

[herdelreydear]

I was all over her

pt 1

warnings: college!au, mean!ellie, owenxabby, elliexreader, (a bit abbyxreader bc of readers past, smoking, drugs, alcohol, some angst, nsfw in this or the next parts

summary: Dina drags Ellie to a camp where they can work at for three weeks, the money is good and they get a little vecation from their college life. It’s annoying but it gets more interesting when Ellie gets to know the other girl that is joining as a camp leader.

notes: i’m really excited for this series, it’s gonna be inspired by the 80s slasher summer camp vibe! They’re not in the 80s anymore but their town is so stubborn, that they still got all the old equipments so it kind of feels like it anyways. I’m also going to switch from different perspectives to get a better view from everyone’s thoughts when things get spicy :P

reposting, liking or even commenting would be so so appreciated <3

{ not proofread }

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„Ugh“ Ellie grunted shoving her stuff in her backpack that was already falling apart and had some holes here and there. It didn’t bother her as long as she didn’t loose anything of her supplies.

„If the money isn’t worth it i’m going.“ Dina, laying on her bed watching her- „Of course Ells as if you’re not living off of instant noodles and my stuff the last few weeks“ she grinned and rolled onto her stomach.

„The kids are gonna be annoying but remember how we were that age?“ she let out a quite laugh. „Were the ones making the rules now, so how bad can it be?“

„Oh fuck you“ Ellie sighed and finally got her backpack to zip up. „Kids that age are little shitheads“ she stood up and let herself fall on the bed next to Dina. „Well yeah, but at least they’re not that bad, I mean they wont be older than 16 y‘know?“

„Well with 16 I started selling“ Ellie grinned. „But if I catch one of them doing anything like that imma beat their ass“ she looked at her phone to check the time. „Well, or their mom will“

Dina flipped a finger against Ellies forehead „Ouch“- „You’re the one that has to behave“ Dina glanced a provocative smile at her. „No girls your age except for me and Abby, and a bunch of kids- I think you can handle that“

„I don’t like that Abby and Owen are the ones giving the orders to us, she‘s okay but Owen is annoying as fuck“ Dina nodded to agree with her. Abby and Owen were a bit older then them, and already did the camp counseling the year before.

„Well anyways we gotta go“ Dina pushed Ellie of the bed otherwise to leave would’ve took forever. They got outside and walked to Ellies Pick-Up truck. The others would drive in a school bus Owen got the permission to drive with. They would all meet at the camp.

This year it was so full, Owen and Abby decided to let all the kids sleep in the little cabins and the leaders would have to sleep outside. Because of Ellie having the Pick-Up they already loaded all their tents on it, wondering why there were two from Abby and Owen, thinking they’d sleep together anyways.

The Trip was nice though, Ellie liked driving and Dina liked being Ellies Dj even though Ellie didn’t approve to all the songs Dina was blasting on full volume.

After arriving Ellie looked unmotivated again. „First and last day are always the most stressful ones, so don’t give up today okay Ells?“ Closing the car door Dina tried to get Ellies confirmation. „Yeah sure“ she muffled and helped Dina with the tents and their backpacks.

Already settled in, they could hear the voices of kids and teens laughing in their little cabins. Searching for Abby and Owen they ran into you.

You just had moved to the place you were now also going to college to. Only about three months ago, but you didn’t recognize the two women approaching you. They don’t look 16 anymore that’s for sure, so they must be from college too, also taking the opportunity to get that money.

Of course you needed that money desperately, normal for a college student. Also, extra money didn’t hurt, and you needed to get away from.. well actually you wanted to get away from Abby, but you already applied to the job before knowing it was organized by Abby- and Owen, her boyfriend.. At least the two other girls are joining too, so you’re not alone with them.

„hey! you’re from college too?“ Dina came up to greet you with a welcoming quick hug, surprised you smiled lightly and nodded. „Uh, yeah I am“ you looked over to the other girl, hands in her pockets and not looking like she was going to great you like the other one. „I’m y/n“ you introduced yourself to the two. „Dina“ -she seemed like a person you’ll get along with, but the other one- „Ellie“ she said shortly, seemed not that pleased by the whole situation. Well, maybe she was just here for the money, and you’d understand that. For you, being outside was calming, and working or more like watching the kids a bit was totally fine with you. Growing up with siblings you knew how to handle annoying teens.

„Hey hey“ Owen stepped out of one of the cabins, Abby on his hand, she looked a bit annoyed but smiled when she saw the small group of yours. „Finally, all the kids are already unpacking their stuff and ready for some food“ she smiled and they stepped closer to greet everyone. „So for the basics: we have plans hung out in the kitchen on wich we are divded into wash off and cooking shifts.“ Abby walked to one of the cabins, the only one that was a bit bigger, everyone followed.

Stepping in she pointed to a list that was hung up against a board. „I think it’s okay that we do the dishes, the kids are here to relax. Owen and I are going to do most of the activities with them, but most of the kids are already to old for that and just want to be outside on the lake or on the fields. You guys just watch out that no ones going missing and when we need you, you’ll help us out.“

Her voice was calm and you couldn’t avoid feeling a big clump in your throat.

Just weeks ago she ended it with you, or kind of did. You apparently just were a little flink she had while being broken up with Owen. It still hurted though. She was the first woman you slept with, but even more- she was the one that gave you the security you were a lesbian. At the beginning she was there for you while being the new student, helping you out a lot with how everything worked you both couldn’t deny the tension that got in between you from the first day you’d met. At that point you didn’t knew about the breakup with Owen, you were fully convinced she was a lesbian anyways. You asked her out on sweet little coffee dates and she took you to her basketball practice ones in a while. It felt like you two had known each other for much longer than just a few months. You started to crush on her besides being sexually attracted to her. But it stayed at being fuck buddies, till you mentioned your feelings and she seemed to be on the same side. All fine, till one night- that stupid fucking frat party. You were waiting for her all night, after not showing up you asked around if anybody saw her. Some did, but they also lost sight of her. Already a bit drunk you made your way through the rooms till you accidentally walked in on two people, needing a sec to realize who was having sex right there.

That night didn’t end well. You were heartbroken (you knew it seemed a bit too fast but it still hurted- and it was the way she did not tell you about him- and didn’t tell you she was actually just getting her sexual frustration eased by sleeping with you) You felt used and had cut her off.

Now, you two had to get along somehow. And it was fine, it wasn’t that deep you tried to tell yourself. Move on, gosh you’re embarrassing yourself . You’d tell yourself.

Everyone seemed fine with the list, and you turned to Dina and Ellie. „So, let’s build up our tents?“ you wanted to get away from her. They agreed. You looked up to Abby while walking past her, she gave you a little smile. You noticed her apologizing look, it made you sick.

„Oh I forgot to tell you, Jesse‘s coming too“ Dina turned her head to Ellie while putting together the tent. „How did you forget that“ Ellie scrunched her eyebrows together. Sweet. You held on to the other side of the tent, not doing much because you didn’t knew anything ok how to put up those. „Well, Ells he’s not here so obviously I forgot him. He’s always late!“ she rolled her eyes. „Jesse‘s my Ex“ she turned around to tell you without being asked, but you were to shy to ask anyways, so you appreciated her leading the conversation. „So now we’re two“ you tried to smile. „Wait what? You were dating Jesse??“ You shaked your head hardly. „Noo I don’t even know him don’t worry“ before she could ask about Abby, you quickly finished building up the tent and changed the subject. When all tents were up, Jesse arrived. Extroverted like Dina he started blabbering all kinds of stuff on to you, knowing he just tried to made you feel less left out, you tried to stay as focused as possible and answered to all his questions.

„So now, who’s gonna sleep where?“

All of you stood infront of the three little tents. Abby and Owen were already in the kitchen, making some dough for bread on sticks, but it was obvious they’d sleep together. „I don’t care, you guys can decide“ You smiled and you noticed Ellie glancing over to you. She was really quite since they arrived but it was kind of.. pleasant.

„You wanna sleep with me?“ She said, and you shrugged. „Sure“ giving her a smile that she gave you back. Dina raised a brow, knowing Ellie, she took every opportunity to get girls actually in bed with her. Poor you Dina thought. But Dina was also more than fine with sharing a tent with Jesse. Yes, they broke up, but they still were like besties.

Following Ellie you climbed into your tent, finding yourself unexpectedly really close to her. Ellie noticed the rosy color on your cheeks. „So.. on wich side do you want to sleep?“ you asked, a bit uncomfortable. Before saying anything Ellie just stretched herself and layed down on her side. „is that fine?“ she reassured and you nodded. While humming you started to unpack your stuff. Ellie watched you while rolling herself another one up. You didn’t mind, and didn’t tell her to stop when she lightened it in your little tent, you just opened the entrance and layed down next to her.

„So how come I’ve never seen you at college?“ She looked to the side and held the joint infront of you, as you took it you thought about how you could answer it as short as possible.

„I just came here a few months ago, wasn’t really with anybody that’s probably why“ you shrugged „I like to be on my own“ you exhaled and gave it back to her. She grinned. „Well that’s definitely understandable, but what about frat parties? They can be fun too, never been to one?“ she layed her head on her arm that was behind her and watched the smoke fill the air.

„Well I was“ you caughed, you weren’t used to smoking weed, and the tent was full of smoke. Ellie laughed and opened the outer layer of the tent a bit wider. „Let’s go“ she tilted her head to the exit, noticing you’re not taking the full air that well and you climbed out of it. It already got dark and you decided to collect some wood for the campfire. You didn’t notice how a constant smile was on your lips, and how the stiffness from before started to loosen up. But Ellie noticed and enjoyed your quite being.

After being done collecting some sticks and branches, Ellie lit up the campfire and Jesse and Dina gathered the kids around it. Abby and Owen brought the food and the atmosphere started to get more calm and chatty. You enjoyed it more than you thought and then and there your eyes met with Ellies.

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I know that’s the second series I started, I think I’ll just write them both at the same time. I hope you like it, I already have the next parts planned x3

I’m also making a playlist inspired by the 80s but also the vibe for this series~

[forflightlessbirds]

liveblogging tmagp 22 except it's really incoherent

INTRO BABY I MISSED TOU

grrrrr alex j newall ily

mixed signals ooohhh

29 minute episode oouhh

IT STATETRD

GWEN BACK. GWEB BWEGGN BACK.

"watching figure you mentioned" NO. STOP STOP SHRJEIF SYOP NDOKS

"i know what you're doing." 2hat

LENA THREATENING. OH LORD. i don't liek womrn but for her

that thing was an EXTERNAL???

DEMOTION?????????? WHATSTT.

don't quit bbg

she didn't!!!!

yeaaah gwen stop being unstable GWEN

stop theyre so. ugh i hate them all

CASEMENT STARETD

it's a lteer???

AUGUSTUS I MISSED YOUUUUUUU

experimentation??

oh no. experiments on thibgs

alarmign results???

EXPERIEMNYS ON PEOPLE??????? STOP THIS.

i must say i don't like this

charts??! brain charts????

using silver for conductivity... ooooyh

you did what with the wires

erratic results??

okay the double coil makes sensw

PHOTO

the work of whom.

REPUTATION???

no no not intensive

he had a RIGHT to be hesitant.

CONSTANTINE

I'M WHAY NOW HE DID WHAT

oh no i don't like this

2 seperate animals in one bofy.. where gave i heard that before.

i can see where this is going oh no oh lord

QUESTIONS OF THE SELF.

as you sjoild

data reviewing.. yaaay

me too bae

OCEAN. NO. NO. NO. NO. NO. NO. NO

RADIO SIGNALS AND OCWANS OG FUCKS SAKES

these two things would never meet

okay fun science

deconstructed them all and did what with then.

WHAT WAS THE DEISGB

oh no no no plumbing

questions of the self part 2: electric boogaloo

TICKING.

"imagine yourself." i don't inow

i kind of love tmagp's more intimate feeling to it. it feels less detached than tma an d i love it

UNCHARACTERISTIC WHIMSY

oh no he's sending

imagine yourself

dead. oh no

yaaaayy activity

TIDAL WAVE IF SIGNAL

i loeeeveee

oh no wait actually this seems Dangerous

FUCK. NO. THERE WILL BE A REPLY????

SMOKE

what on EARTH happened

ursula are you oajy

ursula. what is happening

is he okay?? is she okay???? what's happening

hear WHAT.

be patient with your wife fuckass

OH NO THE PATIENT

oh my lord????

good lord. arteries.

SCREAMING

tetanus comparison

rictus.

his tongue.

crescendo.

cracking.

background music i love it

WHAT.

they severed the sense of self.

shiiiiiit.

IT'S ON THE FLOOR

oh he's dead

"you could not hear it?" what.

"just another case of unfortunate frontier science" die

what did you find. this better have been worth it

a pattern you say

OH SHIT WHAT DID HE REALISW

there's no misfile.

FINGERPRINTS PROVE IT

what did you understand??

"she was always a better communicator than i" yeah makes sense babe

what had she HEARD.

oh my god

oh holy shit

holy shit

we are.

i am here.

here alone

we are i alone

all alone

so alone together

together alone

i think we get the message

he's alone

help

help we us

alone

help out

OUT????

WAIT.

i'm connecting threads.

i don't know what they are but i'm connecting them

violence is discovery of life or something idk man

yeah you delay those findings babygirl

robot voice again

WAIT. I KNOW THAT NAME

casement ends.

ALICE AND SAM

OH SHIT HE KNOWS

i hate her and him and UGH

he knowszs

alice you're really in it now

okay sam you're being a bit mean

but alice is also being a little obsessive

alice is losing all her friends around her.

she's just like me fr

"i just thought that you'd be different. that you might actually listen to me" sobbing

why is she still here. good point.

it's easy money??

oh lord she's me

"we could-" alice honey we all know you're not over him

ohhhh theyr3 so complex ily

OOH WHAT'S HAPPENING NOW

sam and celia oooh

i can't hear a word they're saying actually

SHE CAN EITHER GET OVER IT OR GET LOST??? OUCH.

celia stop encouraging ot. this isn't healthy celia

names??

JON AND MARIOGIB

JMART.

J. MART. MENTION. WHAT. THE.

OH MY GOD

OH MY GOF OGG MY GOFK THEYRU BACK TEHEY RYHD WHAT TTAHT WEHAT DOES YHDI MEAN

EPISOODE ENFS

FUCK

[goat-and-a-pig]

Chapter 2

Stan was running from the law… again. If he thought about it, he supposed he’d been running his whole life. First from responsibility and blame, then from his mistakes that got him kicked out, and now, from the law, like he had been doing for the past forty years- or his whole life if you thought about it-

“Hey you! Stop in the name of the law!”

Oh right. He was being chased. “Try and catch me, suckers!” He stuck his tongue out at the Royal Guard.

“Stud! Focus on running, you idiot!” Right. He also wasn’t running alone. “Don’t worry, Gleeful. I got the journal. This way!” Stan took off down a corridor with Bud and Gideon Gleeful trailing behind him. They ran and ran until-

“Excuse me?” Stan ripped a poster down. “Do you see this? This- This-” he sputtered. “-MONSTROSITY?”

“What in tarnation are you blathering about?” Gideon glared at him.

“They spelled my name wrong!” Stan held up the poster. It read, “WANTED: STUD PILFIR”

Gideon just stared at him. “Are you KIDDING me?” He demanded. “Hate to interrupt,” Bud interrupted. “But we are still on the run. We need to go.” Stan huffed in annoyance, stuffed the poster into his bag, and dashed off again. They came into a backup ballroom that seemed familiar. And dusty. There was a staircase leading up to a balcony with a door and a hallway that was above a stage. There was no visible staircase leading up to the balcony, but they didn’t have time to waste looking for it. Stan looked at the situation, then came to a conclusion.

“Lift me up to the balcony. From there, I’ll pull Gideon up and we’ll get you up together, Bud,” Stan explained. “Alright, but give me the journal first.” Stan stared back in mock shock. “You don’t trust me? After everything we’ve been through?”

“Nope.”

“Ouch.” Stan held a hand over his heart, then sighed. “Fine.” He handed Journal 1 to Gideon. They lifted him up to the balcony with much effort.

“Now,” Gideon heaved. “Get me up there, Stud.” Stan pretended to consider it for a moment. “Nah,” he decided. “I’m okay.”

“B-but we had a deal!” Gideon stammered. Stan laughed. “Yeah- to steal Journal 1, not to help each other escape.”

Gideon smirked. “We still have the journals. You can’t leave without them. And I’m not giving them to you! You went back on your word! We were supposed to rule the world!”

Stan chuckled. “I’ve never wanted to rule. I just want my-” he caught himself. “-Money,” he finished. “Besides, I don’t need you, I’ve already gone ahead unburdened you of both Journal 1 and Journal 2. You’re welcome.” Gideon looked around in his pockets in shock. Stan held them up. “Thanks anyway. Enjoy jail!” Gideon waved his fist at him angrily. “I rebuke thee, Stud Pilfer! I rebuke thee,” he whispered creepily.

He heard footsteps getting closer, so he jiggled the doorknob. It was locked. He got out his lockpick kit. “Come on, Stan. Just like in Columbia,” he whispered while the Gleefuls struggled to get on the balcony.

“Aha! He exclaimed as the lock popped open. “¡Adiós, amigos!” He shouted as he closed the door behind himself and the lock clicked shut.

_____

Stan’s legs ached from walking down all of the stairs. He’d already had to run at least a mile today, now he had to walk down a bajillion stairs?

“Finally,” he grumbled as he finally saw another door. Would he ever make it out of this stupid castle? His whole life he’d been trying to- “Hot Belgian waffles!” He exclaimed as he opened the door. Inside was an odd contraption that was shaped like an upside down triangle. But Stan knew that only one person could have built this, only one thing that it could be-

“The portal,” he gasped in awe. Stan was dumbfounded. He stole Journals 1, 2, and 3 (he’d liberated it from that stupid guard that was too fast for his own good. Why was he sort of a horse? Why did he have Journal 3? Why was he a guard? He looked like he was ten or something! Ugh.) for this very purpose. And lo and behold, he found it fully built with the supplies needed to fire it up right beside it! This is the king’s portal. I’m just surprised it’s still fully stocked. Well, he considered, maybe not too surprised.

He got to work.

_____

Stan was sweaty. Those barrels of waste were really heavy.

But it was done.

It turned on, the timer finally finished. How long had it been? Stan felt like he hadn’t slept for days. But he was finally finished.

“It will all have been worth it…” He jumped.

_____

“Hello? Is anyone there?” Stan yelled out into space. Eventually he walked into view of the strangest thing he’d seen all day. (And that was saying a lot.)

It was tall, silver, and looked somewhat like a cartoon rocket ship, with strange symbols running down the sides. It had one circular window near the top. (Stan wasn’t dumb enough to think that real rocket ships looked like this, so what was this weird one doing here that definitely couldn’t actually fly?)

“Hello? Is anyone up there?” Stan tried again. Well, he thought, I’ll just have to get up there myself. I’ll see much better up there anyway. So he took out his grappling hook and rappelled himself to the window-looking thing. When he went inside, his eyes popped out of his forehead.

“Ford?”

[terasutetrad-ruikamishiro]

// light angst under the cut. dysphoria mostly. mention of weight.

Rui clutches his chest, wheezing as he shuts his bedroom door behind him.

[u-ugh- what on earth? I only went out for a little while...!]

He had gone by the local dollar store to stock up on miscellaneous things like tape and markers, only to come back feeling the telltale ache in his ribcage that comes only with wearing his binder too long.

[But I've only had it on for half an hour, maximum...]

He coughs.

Oh, god-

Well, he can think later. Right now, he has to get this off.

He takes out his earrings, his shirt, and, with immense struggle, slides his fingers under the seam of the binder.

o-oww...

He winces. Why is it pinching his fingers so hard...?

He pulls, but the garment won't budge.

[What? Oh, come on, now...!]

He keeps pulling with increasing force until it finally comes off.

He heaves a few very needed breaths, but he's not ready for the stab of soreness that comes with them, hunching over when it hits.

a-ahh...ouch-!!

He turns to look in the mirror. There are imprints from where the seams cut into his skin, and minor bruising around them.

[... it's made me sore, but I've never had it bruise me before...]

Staring into the mirror to assess any visible injury also forces him to look at, well, his body. And as he traces his figure with his hands, he can't help but notice how much he's changed.

Rui was stick-thin when he was younger, he recalls, ignoring the chill that runs up his spine as he brings his memory back 3 years. This is, of course, not the case anymore. Sure, it's a result of taking better care of himself, but...

[I'm probably a good 20 pounds heavier than I was in junior high, if not more. And this binder...]

Rui takes the discarded clothing item off the floor, checking its tag.

[...is still an extra small.]

He holds the binder up to his body, and nearly recoils at how small it looks on his silhouette.

[...I knew it. It's far too small. I noticed I was getting sore more often, but I thought I had just not been watching the time like I should...]

...

[...the things I do just to not feel like tearing my skin off.]

As he continues to stare in the mirror, he suddenly realizes it's making him feel sick. He doesn't want to look at his ridiculously feminine figure anymore. He wants his chest flat again, he doesn't like the weight on his shoulders, he doesn't like the curve of his waist, he doesn't like it at all.

He turns away and pulls his shirt on again.

[... you're joking.]

He groans, tugging at the tight fabric around his chest, and grabs some oversized jacket out of his closet.

[there...]

He finally feels like he can breathe.

Now it's later, and he has to think.

[...I need another one, obviously. I'll need to measure myself again...and I don't think I have the money for it now...and I don't know how long it'll take for it to come...and I don't know of anywhere I can buy one in-store...or what other sizing is like...and-]

Another wave of pain shoots through his body, and he realizes he doesn't want to think about this anymore.

...

[I'm just going to lie down...]

[moonlightreal]

New books for kid wizards

Once in a while I like to go looking for textbooks for kid wizards, because things like The Book of Wizardry and Wizardology are just so great I don’t want to let another gem escape my eyes. But this time I discovered something ugly, instead of a gem!

The Junior Witch’s Handbook

A book with an author and an illustrator, so published by a big publisher. By the reviews it looks like a book of real witchcraft for the middle grade audience, just as there are a bunch for the teen audience.

The Wizard’s School of Magic by unknown author

There’s a series of four, all by unknown author. Didn’t the writer claim them? What is going on here? No reviews, no description, not even a pagecount. And $17! Not even a cheap used copy. I fear the price puts a stop to investigation.

The School of Wizardry: a Handbook for the Modern Wizard

By Mario Garnet, an actual occultist. Ten bucks new or four on kindle. This looks like someone’s passion project book, like, this guy had the idea to write this particular book and wrote it and published it.

The description says it’s about: The Grottos: Magic of Knowledge is about the mysterious properties of arithmetic, geometry and human history; Magic of Cultural Diversity--the multi-facets of being human; Magic of Life--the nature of our DNA and the sanctity of the vehicle of our life force; Magic of our Universe--Quantum fields and the fine line between science and magic; Art of Magic -- the How-To!

This looks like it might be interesting.

How to turn Invisible and Other Spells for Kids by Stella Rose

Ok, 66 pages, 15 bucks—ouch!--cheaper on kindle. Written by a mother and daughter team, which explains why “her” other books include titles like the Flirting Games series.

I wondered, because it looks like she’s embraced AI for her book covers and, according to the reviews, interiors too including one illustration with 3 arms. ^^; You could at least whack the robot until it produces something that isn’t cursed! Have some pride about your AI usage, that’s the lowest bar. But the book is, probably, written by a human.

Also it has this delightful review:

The eleven year olds of the UK, doing quality control for us! I love it! I do kind of want this book, but not at that price.

The Girls’ Witch Guide to Magic Spells and Potions for Kids by Bellafontaine Black

Well the oddly placed apostrophe in the title is a little weird, but the book and its companions are in multiple languages so maybe this book was not originally written in English. Independently published. The description looks good, 124 pages, ten bucks. Sounds ok. I wonder what I can learn about the author.

The author is an AI generated cat.

With what sure reads like an AI generated description.

And her entire bibliography is either these witchy books or AI generated coloring books, plus one childrens’ book that might in fact be real.

Is this a real person (who probably isn’t named Bellafontaine Black) or is this person just AI from start to finish? Now I’m on the fence whether to get the kindle edition to confirm my suspicion, or not get it because I certainly don’t want to give money to anyone who had AI write their book for them. If the AI did the work, you shouldn’t get the money.

This crop of books for kid wizards is sadly lacking. Not a one that looks really super, and the ones i might investigate just to see what they are are too much money for the pagecount. And AI! Ugh, not what I want.

[dragonmuse]

I'd love to see some wmits Izzy and Alma interactions.

(you've got it!!)

“Charlie!” Alma called as soon as she walked in the door.  “I need to borrow your husband!” 

“How did you get in here?” He called back, coming out of the office with a frown. 

“I made a copy of your key, obviously,” she tossed her braid over her shoulder. Dressed down today, just a little black dress, acid green tights and her lowest heeled boots. “What if you had an emergency and I needed to get in?” 

“I’d call Read,” he said dryly. “What do you need Iz for?” 

“Ugh, you know Mom’s whole charity thing?” She perched on their couch, reaching down to untie her laces. Apparently she was staying a while. Charlie headed for the kitchen, turning on the coffee pot.  

“Which one?” He asked wryly. 

“The warming centers thing, you know? Help the homeless?” 

“She’s got the arts education thing too,” he reminded her. “But okay, warming centers. What about them?” 

“She’s doing a big fundraiser and asked if I would help her out with some of the admin. It’s been fine. You know how much I love to part stupid old men from their money.” 

“It’s one of your best hobbies,” Charlie agreed. “Mocha or caramel?” 

“Mocha,” she kicked off her boots. “Anyway, the actual event is in two weeks and I cut Kyle loose yesterday.” 

“Oh ouch, I thought that was going well.” 

“Turns out, he’s a dick and a half,,” Alma sighed. “People are such fucking liars, it’s exhausting. But he would’ve made a bad date to this anyway. All those old men are going to be all over me.” 

“So you want Izzy to growl at them?” 

“It would make my night,” she beamed at him. The machine started to grind beans, filling the air with the sharp bitter smell.  

“He’s at work for another hour. Stick around for dinner and you can ask him yourself.” 

“That was the plan. I’m not in the mood to figure out food anyway. What’re you up to?” 

“Addressing my advisor’s latest round of critiques,” Charlie sighed. “I think I’m almost done. We’ll see. I don’t know how you survived this.” 

“Who says I did? I’m a shell of my former self. And what was left has been devoured by adjuncting. But I got an interview for a tenure position. Came in this morning.” 

“Holy shit, where?”  He poured the coffee slowly. “What exciting flyover state can we plan on visiting?” 

“Oh, I think you’ll find I might be quite close to home.” 

“...no fucking way.” 

“Way,” she laughed. “I’ve got to get it first, but can you imagine?” 

“You’ll move here!” Charlie beamed at her. “Really?” 

“Really really, if I get it. Can you imagine? You’ll probably get a gig on the oppisote side of the planet as soon as I do though.” 

“Maybe,” he shrugged. “I’m thinking of looking for virtual teaching positions, honestly. Something that leaves me enough time to research.” 

“Ah, ‘the book’,” Alma nodded. “Sure, why not?” 

He stirred in the chocolate syrup and brought her the mug, settling beside her with his own. Within a few minutes, they were both on their phones, doing their own thing, but Alma turned around, resting against the arm of the couch, her legs draped over Charlie’s lap. That was the scene Izzy came home to.  

“Am I cooking for one more?” He asked wryly. 

“Yep,” Charlie looked up, beamed at him. “How was work?” 

“Fine,” Izzy set his shoes next to the door then crossed to kiss him. “Can still keep you in style.” 

“Oh, you’re keeping me now?” Charlie ran a hand down Izzy’s arm slowly. “How novel.” 

Alma’s toes poked into Izzy’s stomach and he caught her foot, “What, princess?” 

“Charlie said I could borrow you.” 

“I said ask him,” Charlie corrected. “He’s not a library book.” 

Izzy dropped her foot, “What for?” 

“I’ve got this fundraiser thing I have to go to for mom and you would be an excellent shield against gross old men.” 

“I am a gross old man,” Izzy pointed out. 

“You’re not that old and you’re definitely not gross,” Charlie squeezed his hand. 

“Anyway, blending in can only help,” Alma sniffed. “Be my date?” 

“Do I have to be diplomatic about it?” 

“Not on my account,” she shrugged. “I’ll do the schmoozing, you bring the glaring.” 

“Send me the date then.” 

A month later, Izzy picked her up at the Bonnet family home in a black on black suit, no tie,  silver embroidered black vest in a pattern of roses, one button undone at his throat, the silver chain he always wore catching the light. He looked like a very classy mobster. 

“Did you dress to match me?” Alma asked, clearly delighted. She was in a silver dress, hugging her slight frame with shining jet black accessories. 

“Charlie bought it,” he shrugged. “So probably.” 

“Amazing.” 

When they reached the venue, he opened her door and offered her his arm. 

“Oooh giving me the full treatment,” she said happily, taking it, resting her hand butterfly light on his forearm. 

“What’s the use unless you sell it?” he acknowledged. “Your mother know I’m coming?” 

“I had to tell her,” Alma sighed. “Can you imagine how funny it would’ve been if I didn’t? But alas. Sitting arrangements etc.” 

“She must’ve been thrilled.” 

“There was a lot of deep breathing,” Alma agreed. “Too bad for her. I reserve the right to make this bearable for myself.” 

It was stuffy inside which felt a little on those nose symbolically. Most of the attendees skewed closer to Izzy’s age than Alma’s, affluent and boring as hell. There was a ten-piece band and a lovely woman singing ballads. 

“They’ll have to stop when they give out all the ridiculous awards, patting people on the back for making tax shelters for themselves,” Alma murmured. “I need to talk to the man in the hideous blue number first.” 

“Sure,” they approached and it was actually easier to keep pace with her. They were of a height and Alma wasn’t the kind to dash ahead. 

“Miss Bonnet!” the man exclaimed. 

“Mr. Landon,” she acknowledged. “Thank you so much for coming tonight.” 

“I would never miss an invitation from a lovely young lady to such a well put together event. I haven’t spotted your mother yet, but you’ll have to give her my compliments. Truly an outstanding showing,” he plowed on before Alma could say a word, “there used to be a time every night out was quite like this. When I was a young man, there used to be a dozen events like this a month. You were spoiled for choice, now you’re lucky to get a ‘thank you for your donation’ letter. Just leaving money on the table for good causes.” 

“I hope you got my thank you note,” Alma said lightly. “Parties are good, but I do like a personal touch.” 

“I did,”  Mr. Landon realized they weren’t alone at last. “And this is your-” 

“Date,” Alma supplied brightly. “Izzy, this is T. Landon, CEO of Metro Formation Banking.” 

“I’m familiar with them,” Izzy held out his hand. Mr. Landon glanced down, taking in the tattoo, and shook once very lightly.  

“A pleasure,” Mr. Landon glanced between them. “How did you two meet?” 

“My brother introduced us,” Alma said merrily. 

“Oh,” Landon’s face closed down. “I see. Give my best to your brother. If you’ll excuse me, I see Amanda and I’ve been trying to catch her for weeks.” 

“Of course.” 

Izzy watched him go, amused. “What did Charlie do to him?” 

“His son was selling steroids to the jocks at the high school. Charlie called the cops on them,” Alma smiled faintly. “No idea if he actually was or not. Charlie always hated him. There’s Mrs. Donogue. Try to look extra disreputable. She’s a beast.” 

Izzy went around the room with her. He stayed at her side, except to fetch her a glass of champagne that she used to punctuate statements rather than drink and nursed his own along. Each time she introduced him as her date, there were crestfallen looks from the men, followed by a sizing up. He’d meet their assessment with his toothiest smile. Go ahead and ask. I dare you.  

The women kept their council better, but he heard the flurry of whispers as they moved around the room. 

“Evelyn!” Alma said brightly as they neared the end of her circuit. She sounded genuinely thrilled. “Have you met her before?” 

“Charlie has mentioned her, but no.” 

“You’ll love her. Aunt E!” 

“Don’t call me that in public.” Evelyn was in a billowy deep purple dress that set her breasts on display and hid most of the rest of her. Her eye patch was in the same fabric. She wore no jewelry except for a single ring on her middle finger, an aggressively large diamond. “People will think I’m old enough to be your aunt.” 

“You are,” Alma laughed. 

“Stop that,” Evelyn groaned. “Or at least stop sounding so happy about it.” 

“You have to meet Izzy,” Alma told her. “Izzy, this is Evelyn, Evelyn, this is Izzy.” 

“Izzy,” Evelyn raised an eyebrow. “As in, Charlie’s husband.” 

“That’s right,” Izzy held out his hand. She shook it, strong and even.  

“And where is the problem child?” Evelyn asked Alma though her eye stayed on Izzy’s face. 

“Probably reading past my bookmark so he can spoil the ending,” Izzy smiled faintly. 

He’d solemnly promised he wasn’t going out alone. Izzy gave it a 50-50 chance of being true. Charlie did not do well in an empty apartment. 

“That sounds about right. Tell him that I missed him at the birthday bash this year.” 

“I will,” Izzy agreed. 

“I’m going to get another drink,” Alma declared, holding her still mostly full glass. “Anyone want anything?” 

“A negroni,” Evelyn said evenly. 

“No,” Izzy held up his own champagne, still half-full. Alma moved with purpose across the room. 

“Not content with just one of them?” Evelyn asked coolly.  

Izzy snorted, “I’m here as a distraction, not a real date. Alma can do better than me.” 

“So can Charlie,” Evelyn shrugged. “And yet. Here we are with my best friend trying to figure out just where she went wrong.” 

“He’s in a long term stable relationship,” Izzy said mildly. It was nice, actually. To have someone be honest about their distaste instead of hiding it in pointed questions. “About to get a doctorate. Most people would consider that a very successful turn out.” 

“It has lasted longer than I predicted,” Evelyn admitted. “I kept telling Mary ‘oh, just wait it out’. And then you got engaged and I told her it was a stunt. And now here we are. You’re very serious about him.” 

“Yes,” Izzy snorted. “That’s why I married him.” 

“People get married for many reasons, Mr. Hands,” Evelyn gestured at the floor. “It’s a lucky few that do it for love.” 

“I consider myself lucky,” he agreed. “What about you?” 

“Oh, I’m very unlucky,” she said without any change in her tone. “I’ve lost two husbands.” 

Izzy nodded slowly, “Charlie mentioned.” 

“I’m not a very maternal person. Never grieved not having children, but I’ve enjoyed being something like an Aunt to those two. Alma always had a million questions and Charlie took an interest in the business.” 

“I’ve heard. He talks about that autopsy a lot.” 

“He snuck in,” Evelyn said, a hint of fondness creeping in. “In any case, I take an interest, you understand?” 

“I’m glad someone does,” Izzy said dryly.  

“I didn’t come to the wedding because frankly, I hate weddings. I hated my own, hated every one I’ve ever been too. So I didn’t get a chance to say this then, but I think it still applies.” 

“I’m listening.” 

Evelyn shifted her weight, coming inches closer to him. “I have no issue with dead bodies, Mr. Hands. Least of all the ones that deserve to be dead, yet insist on drawing breath. Do you understand me?” 

“Yes,” Izzy smiled at her, pleased as anything. 

“I’m...not sure you do?” She straightened. 

“No one has threatened me over him yet. It’s fucking great,” Izzy sipped his champagne. 

“You...I’m lost,” Evelyn decided. 

“Your Mary was furious. Stede-” 

“Oh, don’t even mention him. We’ve had words,” Evelyn spat. 

“He’s an asshole,” Izzy agreed merrily. “Who blustered at me. No one else has had the guts to do more than that. Even Alma just rolled over to it and she’s the kind of girl that brings an automatic weapon to a knife fight. No one else seemed to give a shit.” 

“Guess that makes me special.” 

Izzy saluted her with his glass, “Very. A fucking pleasure to meet you, honestly.” 

“Here, Auntie,” Alma returned, holding out a glass for Evelyn. “Have fun?” 

“You know what,” Evelyn tipped her fresh glass at Izzy. “I think I did.” 

They had to sit to eat dinner after that. Izzy ignored his plate, in favor of listening to Alma schmooze her way around the table. Mary was sitting one over, apparently listening intently to some blowhard though Doug kept interrupting with guileless jokes that she laughed over and the blowhard winced at.  

There were speeches and awards as dessert came around, then at last the band started up again. 

“Dance with me,” Alma demanded. 

“Yeah, fine.” Izzy got to his feet. 

“We can just do a stomp and sway,” she offered as they got to the floor. 

“Fuck that,” Izzy decided. “You know how to foxtrot?” 

“No?” 

“I’ll teach you.” 

“How do you know?” She asked amused as she settled her hand at his waist. 

“Long story. But it serves you, so don’t ask questions.” 

Alma was a good partner. She moved gracefully, picking up the steps. Charlie liked his dancing dirty and had little interest in the formal. Would he if they came to an event like this? Maybe they’d have to crash a party one day and find out.  For now, Alma flew lightly on her feet. 

“We make a good couple,” she said impishly to him as they swirled around the floor. 

“I look even more like a predator with you then I do with him,” Izzy countered. 

“Because I’m a woman?” She asked tartly. 

“Because idiots think I could convince you of something. Or force you,” he spun her out, then reeled him back in “If they haven’t met you. They see a guy like Charlie, think he can fend for himself.”  

“If only they knew the terrible truth,” Alma snorted. 

“Which is?”  

“That without Charlie, you’d be lost at sea. And without you, Charlie would be dead.” 

“I don’t-” 

“Please,” Alma rolled her eyes. “I know my brother. I know what he was like when you met him. I like you a lot. Probably would’ve anyway. But I only love you because you keep him on his feet.” 

“Does the same for me,” Izzy offered helplessly. Hurricane Alma. What a force. 

“Can’t get divorced then. Mutually assured destruction. Anyway, no one thinks you're a predator tonight. Just a guy with enough cash to turn my head.”

“I’ve got fifty bucks and a triple AAA card.” 

“Great, we can have a breakdown and get fast food.” 

“It’s a date.” 

They left not long after. The Bonnet house was dark. He turned off the car, but she made no move to get out. 

“What is it?” 

“If I get the job...Charlie says he doesn’t want to leave the area. You think that’s true?” 

“We like it,” Izzy considered. “The apartment is a good deal. Know all the decent spots. I’ve got a good amount of clients. Could move, but not a lot of incentive just yet.” 

“I want you both to stay,” she kept her eyes on the house. “I might need you.” 

“What for?” Izzy frowned. “You don’t need anyone.” 

“That’s not the same as wanting to need someone. I don’t....I don’t know what I’m going to do yet.” 

“About the job?” 

“And my entire fucking life,” she snorted. “Ingrid is barely talking to me. Owen is never going to move back to the area. Shawna travels so much, it’s impossible to pin her down. I was counting on that. On them. And now it’s just...gone. So I need to know you’ll be around.” 

“I’m not making promises,” Izzy sighed. “But I can’t see where we’d go.” 

“Good,” she looked up at last with a half-smile. “If I need a ride in a few days, would you take me somewhere and not ask any questions?” 

“Any day,” he said carefully. “Are you all right?” 

“Not sure yet.” She leaned over the console, suddenly in his space. She kissed his cheek. “Thanks, Iz. For tonight. And the maybe ride. You headed home?” 

It would be a long drive. He could get a hotel room or at least, catch a nap here before going. 

“Yeah,” it wasn’t even a question, really. 

“I figured,” she grinned. “You’re both so predictable. Don’t fall asleep behind the wheel. It’d be a loss to the accounting community.” 

“Fuck off, princess,” he said fondly.  

“Night!” 

He waited until she was safely in the house, lights flickering on one by one, before turning the car around and headed back home.

[doyouknowwhoyouare13]

Nyx reads Six of Crows (pt. 2)

SO I kinda ran out of images for the last one so I have to start this one now

part 1

SPOILERS BELOW!!!!

starting on chapter 30

JESPY BOY

short chapter

EW PIECES OF THE KEFTA?

THAT'S HORRIBLE

oh his dad :/

HELP I LOVE HIM AND WYLAN TOGETHER

AH WYLAN WHAT ARE YOU DOING

WHY DO YOU BOTH HAVE A DEATH WISH

GO JESPER AND WYLAN!!!!

WOOHOO SLAY

I still can't believe they're actually doing this rn 💀

chapter 31, NINA!!!

another short one

EW WHO IS THAT MAN

WHAT

HE'S ALIVE?

chapter 32 JESPY BOY AGAIN

AHHH I LOVE THEM SM

WOOHOO THEY DID IT!!!!

33, INEJ

these are all so short

BIG BLOND LUMP 💀

OH THAT SNITCH

UH OH

chapter 34, Nina

my god she's so good at this

BETTER FOR HER!!!

GO NINA

ew don't call her that

I hate him

EW

UH OH UH OH UH OH

MATTY?

I CAN'T WHAT

chapter 35...matt.

he's disgusting

WOOHOO MATTY BOY!!!!

WOOHOO HE WAS TRYING TO HELP

I KNEW HE WASN'T A BAD PERSON 😍

YAYY

chapter 36, JESPY BOY

Idk why they don't just give Wylan a chapter

EXTREMELY short chapter

OMG THEY'RE SO POWERFUL WTF

AH WYLAN

OMG HE KILLED THEM

chapter 27, Nina

AWW THEY'RE SO CUTE

OMG I'M GONNA CRY

OMG OMG OMG I LOVE THEM

OMG HE'S DEAD

aww his son is cute though

AHHH WHAT

WTF IS GOING ON 💀

28, KAZZLE DAZZLE

been a while since you my friend

EW WHAT

YOU SWALLOWED THEM??

OMG KAZ YOU'RE INSANE

LITERALLY INSANE

OUCH

how tf do you accidentally ingest kerosine

HELP THE TALKING TREE JOKES

Omg

once again

Kaz is a fucking genius

this chapter is about to make me cry

OMG HE WANTS HER TOUCH

HIS ONLY EXCEPTION

AHHHHHH

omg I'm gonna cry

AHHH NO KAZ YOU NEED TO THANK HER

I NEED THE EQUIVALENT OF RAIN RN

OBVIOUSLY NOT ACTUAL RAIN THAT WOULD NOT HELP

BUT SOMETHING TO MAKE HIM KEEP GOING

PLEASE

I'M GONNA SOB WTF

39, INEJ

WOOHOO JESPER AND WYLAN TO THE RESCUE!!!

A TANK?

I LOVE THEM 😭

OMG WYLAN IS ADORABLE 😭

Chapter 40, Nina!!!

"I. Should. Let. You. Die." MATTY IS HILARIOUS WHEN TALKING TO KAZ 💀

YOU SHOULD HAVE DROWNED

MATTY 💀

ONE OF WYLAN'S SCHOOL PALS 😭

AWW KAZ

uh oh...many tanks

YESSSS!!!

YES NINA AND MATTY NEED TO STAY WITH EACH OTHER

oh fuck come on they were so close

WHAT

NINA.

omg she's insane.

literally insane.

she better be ok istg

chapter 41, Matty boy

AHHH WHAT

SHE'S SCARY

aww Matty and Nina

AHH MATT

oh thank god

Nina to the rescue!!!

HELP VERY BALD

THEY DID IT!!!!

WOOHOO!!!

Chapter 42, Inej

WHAT DID HE SAY TO HER???

HE TOUCHED HER!!!

AHHHHHH

omg Kaz I swear to god

Chapter 43, Nina

we're almost done :/

oh Nina I feel so bad

OMG 😭

gonna cry

AHHH ISTFG.

she will not die. and you know why? BECAUSE I SAID SO.

44, Jesper

I'm gonna cry.

like actually

JESPER IT'S NOT YOUR FAULT PLEASE

OH THAT BITCH HE HIRED PEKKA

me thinking kruge were coins this whole time

I'M NOT THAT GOOD OF A LIAR

KAZ I CAN'T

AH WHAT

AHHH THIS BITCH.

"only now Kaz was old enough to know better." OH KAZZZ 😭

HE'S JUST LIKE PEKKA.

OMG WYLAN HAD TO GROW UP WITH THIS BITCH

smart move?

OMG THAT'S HORRIBLE. WTAF IS WRONG WITH HIM.

AHHH SO SMART

omg. istg.

AHH WHAT

NO INEJ

what.

Jesper?

No way.

oh he was just bragging he didn't like actually

oh god Kaz is gonna go crazy

DEMON AGAIN

MY GIRL.

AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

starts crying

last chapter :/

46, PEKKA ROLLINS? EW DISGUSTING

OMG KAZ LET HIM OUT?

WHAT ABOUT THE BLOOD?

oh god that's more money than he asked from the actual merch

NO WHY WOULD HE DO THAT

well I guess anything for Inej

THE AUDACITY OF THIS MAN NOT TO REMEMBER KAZ

ugh I hate him

OMG HE STOLE EVERYTHING 💀

I'm finished :((

Is it bad I feel a bit empty now? Like I know I have Crooked Kingdom but god

ANYWAYS AMAZING BOOK!!!!

[shisekibo]

[Story Translation] Chapter Seventeen - Carrier Pigeon

↫ previous story | story list | next story ↬

Boschi:

 “Ugh...”

Muu:

 “Mr. Boschi!”

Ammon:

 “Mr. Boschi, are you okay? Are you in pain?”

Boschi:

 “Stop fussing... Ugh... It barely hurts...”

Boschi:

 “Ouch...”

Choices:

“A-are you okay?”

“You don’t look well at all...”

Boschi:

 “huff... huff... I’m sorry for making you worry, Master...”

Boschi:

 “I’m fine... This is really... nothing...”

Boschi:

 “Ouch...!”

Ammon:

 “You don’t look fine at all!”

Ammon:

 “Here, Mr. Boschi. Water. Drink it slowly!”

Boschi:

 “huff... huff... Sorry... Ammon.”

Fennesz:

 “This is bad. Those powers take quite the toll.”

Choices:

“Take a toll?”

“What do you mean?”

Fennesz:

 “Boschi’s Demon, Saleos, is extremely strong... But that means the toll is extremely large too.”

Fennesz:

 “When he uses Saleos’ powers, he’s able to push past his body’s limits...”

Fennesz:

 “...but, in return, it consumes a large amount of energy to do so.”

Choices:

“That’s such a double-edged sword.”

“He shouldn’t use such power recklessly.”

Fennesz:

 “Yes. Exactly that.”

Haures:

 “Boschi... Are you okay?”

Boschi:

 “Tsk... Stop sticking your nose into my business. Haures.”

Boschi:

 “There’s nothing I hate more than you worrying about me.”

Haures:

 “Hmm... You never change, not even at a time like this...”

Ammon:

 “Mr. Boschi, you really shouldn’t push yourself.”

Ammon:

 “You’re already fighting without your right arm and eye...”

Ammon:

 “And then you’re using more energy than you need to. If you keep pushing yourself like this, you might...”

Boschi:

 “Oi, Ammon. Don’t say that in front of the Master.”

Boschi:

 “I can deal with these wounds, no problem.”

Ammon:

 “Mr. Boschi...”

Boschi:

 “Master... Ignore Ammon.”

Boschi:

 “I can fight.”

Haures:

 “You can barely stand right now...”

Fennesz:

 “Boschi, you should rest for a while.”

Boschi:

 “You guys worry too much.”

Ammon:

 “Stop being stubborn and take a seat, please.”

Boschi:

 “Tsk...”

Muu:

 “Is Mr. Boschi going to be okay?”

Choices:

“I’m worried too.”

“Don’t push yourself too hard.”

Fennesz:

 “Don’t worry, Master. Please let him rest for a while.”

Haures:

 “When he’s rested, we’ll make our way to Mr. Berrien and the others.” 

- A Few Minutes Later -

Haures:

 “Hm...”

Fennesz:

 “Nice work, Haures.”

Fennesz:

 “Here you go. I brought you some water.”

Haures:

 “Fennesz. You’re always a step ahead of us.”

Fennesz:

 “You flatter me.”

Haures:

 “Ahh, nice and cold.”

Fennesz:

 “By the way, Haures. You really are strong...”

Haures:

 “What brought that on?”

Fennesz:

 “I was thinking about it while watching you and Boschi fighting together just now.”

Fennesz:

 “I really don’t compare to you two at all...”

Fennesz:

 “That’s how strong you are. You’re amazing, Haures.”

Haures:

 “Fennesz... You don’t need to put yourself down like that.”

Haures:

 “I’ve never once thought you were weak.”

Fennesz:

 “Haures...”

Fennesz:

 “I’m sorry if I made you worry.”

Fennesz:

 “Especially while you were resting... I apologise.”

Haures:

 “No, I don’t mind...”

Fennesz:

 “...”

Haures:

 “...”

Fennesz:

 “E-erm... Oh, that’s right! Who on earth were those men who attacked us?”

Fennesz:

 “They called themselves mercenaries, but...”

Haures:

 “Mercenaries, huh...? They’ll join either side of a war as long as they get enough money for it.”

Fennesz:

 “Someone probably hired these ones to target us...”

Haures:

 “Target us...? But who? And why...?”

Fennesz:

 “Hmm... Well...”

Fennesz:

 “Oh! Could it be...?”

Haures:

 “Fennesz... What are you thinking?”

Fennesz:

 “This is bad, Haures... Mr. Berrien might be in danger!”

Haures:

 “What?”

Fennesz:

 “They led us here by making it look like Angels had attacked the village...”

Fennesz:

 “They probably wanted to split us up and make us weaker.”

Haures:

 “Make us weaker and attack us when we’re at a disadvantage?”

Fennesz:

 “If that’s true, Mr. Berrien and the others might be in the same situation...”

Haures:

 “The same situation...? So there might be more mercenaries over there too?”

Fennesz:

 “Potentially... I think so, at least...”

Fennesz:

 “A-anyway! We need to hurry up and catch up to Mr. Berrien!”

Haures:

 “I understand but... Where on earth is everyone...?”

flap flap

Muu:

 “Huh? Mr. Pidgeon, are you coming this way?”

Haures:

 “That’s Mr. Lucas’ carrier pigeon!”

[distopea]

“Ah right! Taiyakis.” Sybille giggled at the foreign word she had never been able to remember. She was living in her own little world, oblivious to what Ryo might perceive on his side. Why would she even care to see what others might, ugh? She wanted to feel like the object of desire she knew she was; she had the assets, she had the conversation, and she had the little tricks to convert those precious minutes spent with her into good money. “I always try to remember all the vocabulary of your language, but I’m struggling. It’s very different from my native tongue. Not mentioning the old kanjis and the new ones, I’m lost.” 

She waved her fingers once more, as she was definitely more appealed by the perspective of a game. It was her favorite one. Usually they would all guess the same kind of countries, if they were ever familiar with Europe at all. She had earned a lot of tips with that with other unlucky clients, and she was ruthless enough to use her good techniques more than once. She thought that it could be useful as well for him to have something else on his face than this stoic stare, and alcohol shall be the solution. Again, she was confused by his attitude; why was he so unhappy to be there? Here, at least, it was fun and thrilling! 

“Ouch. First wrong answer.” She tutted and mimicked a no with her index. Sweden was often the first try, so her victorious smirk couldn’t be missed at all. Yet, she mastered the art of pretending that she cared about someone’s fat. She slid her hand right onto his thigh and observed him. “But I was nice enough to offer you to pick what you want to drink, remember?" She eyed his alcoholic beverage for a second.

“Something tells me that you’re not really a whiskey guy in the end, even Japanese ones. So I’m all ear and ready to rush to the bar to pick your poison, handsome.” Before the contact would become too rude, she withdrew her fingers and sat back in her place, nice and polite. “And then, we can keep going. Night is young. Just like us.” She winked.

it should've been a known thing by now, that when it came to him & his brother, they could both be quite difficult to deal with. both sharing that aversion of being touched without permission, with ryo being the calmest out of the two. someone that wouldn't snap in a moment of fleeting anger, but that would offer a warning glare regardless. he was the problem in this situation & the awareness was there, but that did little to help her situation.

there was no comment from his part when she decided he liked the drink, despite his initial reaction. he gave her the side-eye, before staring at this glass again. it could've been worse, he supposed. however, her attempts at ' charming ' him remained rather bizarre in his eyes. the sound of her hands clasping together caused him to blink—as if that was the most startled that he'd be, before relaxing once again. her words felt rather empty, like the kind of thing anyone would say during small-talk, for the lack of a better topic.

"taiyakis." he offered, as it appeared that even though she liked them, the name of it slipped her mind. "i like the ones filled with red beans." another small detail about himself that just escaped him without thinking much about it.

europe... that checked ; nodding along as he listened before he explained himself further. "more immigrants had been moving as of late, so i thought of asking." considering her japanese wasn't so bad. he'd commend her for at least learning the language. unfortunately, just as he was growing at ease, she made it seem as if he had fallen into a trap with the proposition of playing a game. even if she was being generous enough to let him pick the drink, ryo still eyed at his glass with some contempt. "i rather not get drunk." he admitted, before glancing up back at her. "swedish?"

[goodlucktai]

(I feel like I should finish your prompt first but. These ones are so good....feel free to ignore if you have too many asks but 29 or 33 with chocobros...?

PROMPTS LIST

33. “Are you SURE I can’t punch him in the face?” “Yes.” “What if I just break his nose a little?”

ik i just did this one for natsuyuu but...........chocobros

x

They're somewhere in Duscae, near enough to the coast that each breeze carries a hint of the sea, on another errand for another stranger to scrape together enough gil to eat tonight.

They've stopped at the last little roadside cluster of shops before the countryside stretches far and wide and wild, stocking up on what meager supplies they can afford.

Noctis has never lived this way before. He's never gone to bed hungry before. Neither has Gladio or Ignis, for all their world-weariness and the general practical knowledge and common sense they walk around with that far surpasses Noctis' own.

Ignis can budget with the best of them, and Gladio is willing to eat literally anything at any time, but Prompto is the one who gets it.

He chats at length about all the times he's had to get creative with pasta or rice because it was all that was left in his pantry. Back in high school, when he could only work part-time. When someone should have been taking care of him, and instead he was left to figure out how to stretch a tiny budget much farther than made sense.

"Come on, Iggy," he said once when they were out shopping, half-laughing. Like he thought Ignis was joking. "Fresh produce? We've got like a hundred gil between the four of us and we're totally out of restoratives."

And Ignis paused, and glanced sidelong at him. He put back the crisp, flowery vegetables and pulled out his little notebook and asked for suggestions instead. It took Prompto a few minutes to convince himsef that Ignis was taking him seriously, but now they like, bond over canned fruit.

"I'm gonna kill this catoblepas with my bare hands," Gladio says with feeling, leaning against the car. "I'm so godsdamned sick of pasta. Don't tell Iggy I said that."

Noctis rolls an energy drink between his hands absently, brow furrowed. It's tricky business, and he's not very good at it just yet, but home-made elixirs save them a ton of gil. He feels guilty when they have to spend their money on something he should be able to do himself.

"I'm telling him," he says without missing a beat. "He'll never forget, and he'll give you shit every single time you make cup noodles from now on, forever."

"I can't stand you," Gladio tells him seriously.

The bell above the door of the convenience store rings brightly, and Noctis glances up to see Ignis and Prompto walking out looking a lot more cheerful than they did going in.

Gladio's face does something very subtle and specific when he sees them, there and gone in a second, before Noctis can pin it down and figure it out.

"What are you two chucklefucks up to?" he calls over. Ignis immediately narrows a disapproving stare at him, but Prompto beams.

"I got a commission, sort of!" he says.

"A commission?" Noctis parrots, sending the energy drink back to the Armiger.

"Sort of?" Gladio adds.

"While we were checking out, the store-owner saw my camera, and seemed really into it," Prompto says. "Since, you know. It's unique."

Noctis does know. The digital camera hanging at Prompto's side has been with him since Noctis first bought it for him three years ago. He would rebuild it every so often, bowed over a collection of impossibly tiny parts spread out carefully across a dish towel at the kitchen table in Noctis' apartment. To call it unique is a bit of an understatement.

Gladio frowns, sensing where this is going a split-second before Noctis does. "And?"

"And he offered me money for it! Like, more than it's worth probably. A lot more."

"I don't see how that could be possible," Ignis says smoothly, leaning through the open window of the Regalia to put the shopping bag in the backseat. "Since your camera is clearly priceless. Which is what I explained to the man."

Noctis relaxes, glad that Ignis and Prompto have bonded over shopping to the point that neither of them want to do it unless they can go together-- because if Prompto had been in there by himself, he 100% would have sold his camera. He would have hated to do it, but he would have done it. It's like he thinks he owes his friends something just for letting him exist.

"Good looking out, Specs," Gladio says gruffly. Prompto waffles a bit, looking torn between pleased and embarrassed. Noctis decides to rescue him.

"What commission, though?" he asks.

"Oh, right. Well, he was kind of bummed about the camera, but he asked if he could see some of my photos, and Ignis said we had time-- "

If it were literally anyone else, Noctis thinks, up to and including and especially the Actual Crown Prince, Ignis would have said they were in a hurry and not to show off.

"--and he seemed really impressed! With the photos! I told him we were going to take down a catoblepas, and he asked why, and I said for some cash, I mean, clearly," Prompto adds, gesturing at the four of them and their general road grime. "So he, ah-- well he's never seen a catoblepas up close before, and he said if I could get some good pictures of it, he'd pay me for them. He gave me a figure, and it's, like, better than some of the jobs I've done for Vyv."

He's delighted, clearly. He likes feeling like he's pulling his own weight. Noctis is always so relieved when Vyv calls, not because of the inherent payday, but more because it puts this light in Prompto's eyes that Noctis would easily climb a hundred volcanic mountains for.

"Damn, Prompto, at this rate you'll have funded our whole trip," Gladio says. He doesn't ruffle his hair anymore, because Prompto actually hates that, just sort of scrunches his fingers through it instead. Prompto doesn't hate that at all. It's adorable.

Sometimes in the early morning, when he and Noctis are the last to drag themselves out of the tiny camper, they'll do their affirmations together:

"Gotta be our best today," Noctis will say, and Prompto will put on this absurdly determined expression, bed hair hanging into his eyes and cheek still creased pink from the pillow.

"Gotta get those hair scrunches," he'll reply gravely.

"What else did he say, Prompto?" Ignis says in a pleasant tone of voice that Noctis hasn't trusted since he was seven years old.

"Um! Nothing. Nothing worth repeating, anyway, you know." He is looking completely away from them now, an avoidance tactic if Noctis has ever seen one. "Woah, is that really the time? We better get going if we wanna catch that cow before it gets dark!"

He turns toward the car and runs into Gladio's arm instead.

"He suggested that Prompto's talents would be put to better use in different company," Ignis says, his voice carrying clearly over Prompto's whine of 'nooo, Iggy, let it go.' "He said that if Prompto ever got tired of our lifestyle, his door would be open."

Ah, Noctis thinks, followed by, ouch?

"Oh, fuck that guy," Gladio blurts. "Let me go talk to him."

"No!" Prompto clings to his arm, throwing all his weight into keeping Gladio in place. The Shield, who could bench Prom's entire body weight in one hand, lets himself be detained anyway and pretends to be annoyed about it. "Ignis, why are you causing trouble right now?" Prompto says frantically.

"Transparency is important in a relationship," Ignis replies.

"There's transparency and then there's causing trouble. Noct, tell them."

"I think Gladio should go talk to him," Noctis says immediately. But then Prompto looks betrayed, and it makes Noctis feel awful. "Ugh, okay. Okay. We're leaving. Ignis, Gladio, that's an executive order."

"Are you sure I can't punch him in the face?" Gladio grumbles.

"Am I-- yes, dude!" Prompto half-laughs nervously. "Very sure!"

"What if I just broke his nose a little?"

"Then that would be treason, I guess, cause Noct just said no."

It's with the standard amount of bickering and noise that they climb into the car, the top rolling up over their heads as it starts to drizzle. Ignis pulls smoothly back onto the cracked asphalt road and reaches over to turn the radio on; a peace offering. From the backseat, Noctis can see the corner of Prompto's smile, framed by a flyaway piece of yellow hair.

They live this way now, but they didn't always. Noctis used to have the run of the whole Citadel, had his own penthouse apartment, grew up dodging banquets and lavish dinners. It's not like he likes sleeping on the ground and having nothing to eat. It's not like he chose to lose his home.

But it could be worse. It's not a bad way to live, just Noctis and the people he loves best and these countless hours together. There's a lot of hard work and sometimes he goes to bed hungry but he knows he'll remember these days forever. He knows he'll miss them.

"Hey," he says, over the quiet sound of rain on the windows and the catchy synth-pop crooning out of the speakers. "Don't ever sell your camera, okay?"

Prompto says, "I mean, I wouldn't ever want to."

"Seriously," Noctis presses. He doesn't want to let it go. It feels important. "Your pictures are-- they mean the world to me, Prom. I can't even tell you."

His friend looks bewildered. He's half-turned in his seat, and his eyes stray to Gladio, then jump to Ignis, then settle back on Noctis. Whatever he's looking for, he seems to find it, because he smiles.

"Okay, weirdo," he says, "one fully-documented roadtrip, coming up. I won't leave anything out."

Noctis is counting on it.