#Sins...possibly more

[ourloveisforthelovely]

Sins

Regulus Black AU

Request:  i dnt rlly have a fleshed-out idea on this nasty request but what abt a smut fic on regulus but he's a priest. ik its insane but i thought of regulus black/paul atreides wearing the clerical collar thing and oh my god he looks so hot

Pairings: Regulus Black x Reader 

Rating: Mature- smut, religious smut fic

AO3 Link

A/n: I left his open where I could possibly write future parts if there is any interest. 

_____

Everything that Regulus ever did was for a reason…at least that was what he told himself. Growing up as the second son in a home where he was obviously unwanted had led Regulus into thinking that nothing happened by chance. Everything was planned. Everything happened for a reason. Sometimes the reasons weren’t always 100% clear but a reason was, nonetheless, there.

That was what led Regulus to become a priest. It seemed completely illogical at first but after a few years, Regulus felt as if he had made the best choice for himself. He no longer dealt with his horrible parents. For once, he was part of something good. Regulus also, for the first time, felt as though he belonged.

It didn’t take long to get used to the “lifestyle.” In no time at all Regulus fit into the priesthood perfectly. He enjoyed the rigid schedule, the church's various affairs, and the need to feel wanted. Sometimes the feeling “wanted” part involved listening to people’s rather concerning sins they committed or lonely elderly widows who cared too much about their herd of cats. Regulus learned to push his once sarcastic and easily annoyed ways aside and learned to have more empathy for the poor widows. Sometimes as simple as “there there” was all the poor women needed.

All of that changed one Sunday during the month of May. It was a typical Sunday mass. A typical Sunday where Regulus sat listening to his superior read the day’s message. Nothing seemed out of the ordinary as Regulus’ eyes scanned the congregation before him. Regulus had quickly learned who were regulars and who only turned up when they had done something and were in need of God’s forgiveness. For the most part, everyone seemed to be there…and then Regulus’ eyes landed on…you. The new face…The face that had been plaguing Regulus’ dreams for the past 2 weeks…the face that Regulus envisioned running his hands over before kissing the plump lips that had begged for his attention…the fact that he could throw away everything for.

Regulus quickly looked down at his lap before muttering a quick prayer for forgiveness. Human or not, he wasn’t supposed to look at a woman like this. He wasn’t supposed to think of a woman like this. Regulus had pledged his life for something greater. Now here he was acting like even more of a sinner than someone who slept with multiple women a week.

This isn’t supposed to happen. I’m not supposed to be lusting after a woman.

Regulus swallowed his thoughts before bravely looking up at you again.

Father, she is beautiful.

Regulus once again quickly chastised himself for that thought. While he was free to admire his father’s creations that didn’t mean he was supposed to be thinking about having you beneath him.

Until you turned up 2 weeks before, Regulus had always assumed that he was asexual. He had never had much of an interest in sex. In fact, it seemed repulsive to Regulus…then you showed up. You showed up with your parents in a soft light blue dress and bashed the sexual desire right into him.

You had come to visit your parents for a few weeks, from what Regulus had gathered. Your parents were what Regulus considered “A+ Catholics.” They were the type that showed up from whatever even the church had. Both husband and wife were kind, thoughtful, “normal” people. You were the daughter that moved to the US to become a ballerina. Now here you are causing Regulus internal chaos.

All of that led to Regulus’ current predicament…he stood hidden in the shadows watching you. You had come to drop off a box of clothing donations at your mother’s request and Regulus was the guy that had to talk to you.

Over the years, Regulus had learned to put his shy nature to the side and talk to people without much difficulty. That wasn’t the case today, however. Today, Regulus had no idea how to talk, how to think, or what to do. He knew that he would have to face you eventually but for the moment he was fine being in the shadows.

“How am I supposed to talk to the girl that is making me wake up with a raging hard-on? How am I supposed to not focus on her lips, her breasts, her hips…anything… Father, forgive me.”

Regulus silently thought before telling himself to get a grip. You were just a woman and soon enough you would probably be back on your way home. Regulus could forget these feelings…until the next visit. Hopefully, by then, Regulus could have better control of his mind.

Taking a breath, Regulus pushed himself out of the shadows and moved to where you stood.

“You must be Y/n.”

Regulus said in a smooth soft tone. You turned to face him with a kind smile.

“Yes, my mother asked me to drop these things off…father….”

“Black…my name is Regulus Black.”

You again gave him a smile. The young priest before you was definitely pleasing to look at. Pleasing wasn’t even a good enough word. He was downright breathtaking! You swallowed looking him over in hopes that he didn't catch you doing so. Everything about him was perfectly polished…from his perfect curls to his without a wrinkle uniform down to his perfect hands…

Fuck, he is too pretty to be a priest.

You didn’t take back that thought. This man could get any woman that he wanted yet here he was in a position where he couldn't actually do anything…damn shame. You should have been embarrassed or felt bad about these rather unholy thoughts but you weren't.

“Pleasure.”

You replied, keeping your eyes on his. Regulus was quiet a moment as he tried to think of something to say. Staring at your lips or your perfect legs wasn’t going to be helping him any.

“Is your grandmother well? Your mother had mentioned that she was off-color last week.”

Regulus asked. Asking about your grandmother seemed to be the safe option.

“She is feeling much better. Apparently it was a bit of a cold. Mother called me acting as if she was on death’s doorstep and ordered me to come home. Grandmother tends to do this a few times a year. I think she looks for a reason to get everyone in the house.”

A small smile played on Regulus’ lips.

“Your grandmother is amusing. So where are you visiting from again?”

“Las Vegas.”

You replied. Regulus nodded.

“That’s right. Your mother says that you are a ballerina.”

You slightly chuckled at that one. Your mother wished that you were a ballerina.

“Not exactly. That’s what my mother wants me to be. That was what got me to America but I didn’t stick with it. I’m a showgirl.”

Sweet merciful crap!

That was the only thought that Regulus could get through his mind. He couldn't even get a word out. You were a showgirl…probably half-naked at any given time…All Regulus could envision was you dressed in a skimpy bodysuit and high heels.

Father, help me.

“I perform in a casino on the strip. I’m not an exotic dancer or anything. I’m my mother’s disappointment.”

You replied as a soft blush came over your cheeks. Regulus quickly forced himself to start talking.

“No judgment, whatsoever…I’m my mother’s disappointment also so I understand.”

You seemed genuinely surprised with his reaction and Regulus had to congratulate himself on now totally blowing it.

“You’re the first that hasn’t said something judgmental about it. My parents are totally embarrassed.”

“Sometimes parents, even meaning well, don’t have all of the right answers or solutions.”

Regulus said, softly. You brushed a strand of hair from your face sending your sweet scent right in Regulus’ direction. It only took one breath for him to be love drunk from your scent alone.

“You are definitely right about that one.”

20 minutes later, the two of you were still quietly talking. Had the situation been different and he was actually “available” you had the feeling that you would have had the offer of a date…which you would have accepted. You liked Regulus already. Everything about him seemed “perfect.” It wasn’t only his looks but his soft voice and kind demeanor. He was shy…shy and decent.

A decent guy wasn’t something that you came across often. You were used to the kind of guy that made lewd comments to you on your body. Regulus, even though he was looking, didn't go that far. You knew a lot of his was probably because of what he was. He probably had no interest whatsoever. You were just the daughter of a member of the church.

And then it happened…neither Regulus nor yourself was sure who initiated it but the two of you were kissing. This kiss was different from any other kiss that you had shared with someone else. This kiss felt...forbidden, wrong, yet so right at the same time. You sighed as Regulus slowly slipped his tongue into your mouth.

Where did a priest learn to kiss like this?

You thought, savoring the moment until Regulus snapped back into reality and stepped away.

His face instantly went scarlet. Regulus was in an internal panic for a moment. He kissed you! He kissed you as a man was supposed to kiss his wife. Regulus kissed you and he was NEVER supposed to do that.

“I am so sorry…I don’t know what came over me.”

Regulus stammered. He wondered, for a moment, if he were dreaming. Would this be just another dream where you vanished not long after the kiss and he woke up aching?

When you didn’t vanish and he didn't wake up, Regulus knew that he was awake and he had, in fact, kissed you.

“I am in trouble.”

He thought before your soft voice pulled him from his thoughts.

“It's okay…I mean, I’m not complaining. I’m only curious where you learned to kiss like that?”

Regulus shifted uncomfortable a few times before speaking again.

“I had kissed a few girls before I became a priest. Apparently I haven’t forgotten that skill. We shouldn’t be doing this.”

Regulus said. You watched him with a small smile. Your eyes were gently fluttering between his face down to the obviously noticeable hard on in his black pants.

“You don’t seem to want to stop.”

You commented. Regulus closed his eyes before speaking.

“No, I don’t want to but I have a job…a promise I made…I have a purpose.”

Regulus was relived when you didn’t torture him any further. In fact, you seemed almost too understanding.

“As you, father. This has been interesting.”

You replied before moving to leave but was stopped the moment Regulus spun you around and pushed you against the wall. Soft hands locked around your wrists as he raised them above your head.

“Don’t go. You have been teasing me for the past two weeks. Don’t you realize how hard it is to say no?”

Regulus murmured against her lips. He had gone back in for a kiss but decided to savor the moment. From your sweet scent to feeling your body pressed against his, Regulus wanted to make this moment last as long as he possibly could.

“You don’t have to say no. I know you aren’t supposed to do this but what’s one little mess up? We all make them…priest or man on the street…everyone sins.”

You replied, watching the frown on Regulus’ face. He didn’t reply for a moment before standing back up straight. Glancing over his shoulder, Regulus made sure that no one was watching the two of you. He was thankful there was no one but knew that this needed to be taken someplace more “secluded.”

“Come with me.”

Regulus ordered before wrapping his hand around your wrist. He guided you to a quiet office off of the church sanctuary and locked the door as soon as you were inside. Once satisfied that the two of you were indeed alone, Regulus pulled your body back against his.

“You’re right, everyone messes up but I’m not supposed to mess up like this.”

You slipped your hand down to wrap back around his and pulled it up to your clothed breast. Regulus didn’t move at first but after you cleared your throat his hand tightened.

“Something tells me that you want this sin, Father.”

You commented, in a seductive tone. Regulus chuckled before continuing to grope your breast through your dress.

“I suppose that I do.”

He replied, giving you the initiative to continue. You stood on your tiptoes to press a soft kiss to his lips. Kissing your way down his jawline to his neck, you stopped at the collar of his shirt.

“Shall we stop and forget this never happened?”

You asked. Regulus frantically shook his head.

“Don’t stop.”

He whimpered. You stroked one hand down his chest. Stopping at his belt buckle, your eyes rolled back to his, as if asking permission.

“Keep going.”

Regulus ordered, wondering where this sudden surge of bravery came from. Your hand went back to his shirt and gently undid each button. Regulus shrugged his shirt off as your arms wrapped around his neck. He closed his eyes and savored each kiss that you peppered down his chest.

Is this how a woman is supposed to really make a man feel? Is this really so forbidden?

Regulus thought. He could definitely get used to this. The feeling of your hot lips on his skin was indescribable. This was the best feeling that Regulus had ever had…physical attention…this was heaven!

Regulus’ eyes snapped open the moment that you stopped touching him. His mouth dropped when he realized that you were on your knees before him. Your eyes were locked on his face as you moved to cup his erection. When Regulus’ body pulsed under your touch, you couldn’t help the little smirk that formed on your face. It hadn’t taken long at all for your own desire to come roaring back. You sighed feeling the lewd thoughts come right back to your mind.

Damn, he feels huge!

It had been so long since you had actually slept with someone. You were as desperate as Regulus appeared to be for some physical affection. The wetness was starting to slip from your pussy and down your thighs

Regulus quickly reached down and unbuckled his belt. You weren’t moving fast enough for his growing desperation.

“Don’t stop.”

He said, softly. Regulus moved to kick his pants off leaving the only layer of clothing preventing you from getting your hot lips on him was his thin boxers. You didn’t wait a moment longer before pulling the hem of his boxers down and his cock sprang free.

He is huge!

You thought looking at the size of Regulus’ cock. Regulus groaned when you wrapped a hand around his shaft.

“I’ll make you feel good.”

You said in a lust-filled tone before wrapping your mouth around his cock. Regulus’ head fell backward as your tongue drifted over the head and down to the vein on the underside. What you were doing with that sweet yet sinful tongue of yours was enough to make him moan.

You wanted to take more of Regulus into your mouth but were stopped when Regulus reached down and gently pulled you back to your feet.

"Lust is one of the cardinal sins, and now you've made me lust for you. I have wanted you from the moment that you first stepped foot into this church. Now I’m taking what I want…and I don’t care what anyone says. Take your dress off, love.”

You didn’t have to be told twice. Regulus kept his eyes on you as you gently slid your pale pink dress off. The lust once again started flowing through him as the swells of your breasts came to light followed by your bare pussy.

She’s not wearing any knickers!

Regulus’ mouth dropped at that thought. Your bare pussy was one of the most beautiful sights that the young man had ever seen. Forget the immaculate cathedrals and Vatican City…nope, it was your naked body!

“May I touch you?”

Regulus asked. Forget the fact that you had just given him a blow job, he wanted to make damn sure that you wanted him before he even thought of touching you.

“You may.”

You replied, waiting only a moment before Regulus quickly stepped forward. His right hand reached up to cup your breast. His long fingers teased and tweaked your nipples before going back to greedily cupping the whole thing. You sighed enjoying each teasing motion until Regulus picked you up and placed you on the table to your left.

Regulus swallowed before going back in for another small kiss then moved down to your breast. Never in a million years did Regulus ever think that he would be sucking on a woman’s breasts IN THE CHURCH of all places yet here he was. His tongue traced over each dusty bud before gently nibbling. Your body jumped slightly as Regulus went back to suckling.

You had become aware of Regulus’ cock nudging your clit with each of his movements.

“Are you thinking of what you want me to do to you?”

Regulus asked, looking up from his place. Where his sudden surge of bravery and bedroom wisdom came from, he did not know but he was thankful for it.

You nodded, feeling the heat spread through your body. The thought of Regulus’ long, thick cock filling you up with no mercy made you ache even more. He would indeed stretch you and you longed for it. You longed for his cock stretching your tight cunt until you were made just for him. Every sinful thought made you wetter and wetter, and the warm ache was becoming insatiable.

"Do you want me to touch you?"

Regulus asked, his voice deepening.

“Yes, Father.”

You cooed, making Regulus tremble. He chuckled before running a single finger down your wet slit. Regulus swallowed as he watched your juices seep from your body. He gently spread your legs, biting his lip, as your soaking fold spread. Your clit was glistening in the warm lights of the room.

“You’re so wet. All of this from a little making out and a blow job?”

You could only nod a moment before recovering.

“Looking at you caused this too. You’re so handsome…and that body…enough to make me a whore in church.”

Regulus chuckled.

“I suppose that we have something in common”

Regulus moved to kneel between your legs. His gray eyes were now hyper-focused on your wet cunt.

“I want you to kiss me there.”

You said, hoping it sounded more like an order. Something told you that this was Regulus’ first time. As much as you wanted to be in control, you decided to let him call the shots. He deserved a good memory to think back on in the coming days. Regulus licked his lips before moving forward. He placed his tongue on your opening and licked teasingly up to your clit. You gasped under him wanting to buck your hips.

Regulus, meanwhile, was savoring the taste of your juices on his tongue. Moving to suck your clip into his mouth, Regulus slowly pushed two fingers inside. He didn’t want to but his mind went back to the porn that he had watched as a teen. Shamefully, he didn't find it at all appealing then but now…he tried to remember the moves the men in the film used on the women.

When you cried out and your ships bucked upward, Regulus knew that he was doing something right. It only took a few more licks and you were spamming. Your tight pussy clenched around his fingers. You cried out as an orgasm began to rip its way through you. Regulus quickly pulled out his fingers and replaced them with his tongue. He lapped up your juices as if he were a dying man that had found an oasis in a desert. Your pussy wouldn't stop convulsing as he lavished your body with more and more attention.

Moving to his feet, Regulus looked down at you with lust-filled gray eyes. His pupils were blown as he took his cock in one hand and rubbed it over your clit. You gave him a nod before spreading your legs wider.

“Please fuck me.”

Regulus waited a moment before gently shoving his entire cock inside in one thrust. The both of you moaned together at the delicious stretch and burn caused by his cock splitting you open. Regulus started to thrust inside, faster than before, making your breasts bounce each time. The sound of skin slapping together filled the room as Regulus moved to once again hold your hands over your head.

The two of you moaned and whispered little reassurances of just how good this felt. Each movement of his cock made your core ache.

“I’m close.”

Regulus moaned against your mouth. He knew that he wouldn’t last long. Never having sex before made him realize that he had no control over his orgasm. He would come inside of you a lot faster than he wanted to.

“Come, I need to come too.”

You gasped as Regulus’ thrusts began to get sloppy. Closing your eyes, you took a deep breath as your orgasm tore through you. Your cunt began to spam around Regulus’ cock pushing him over the edge. His cock jerked before spurting rope after rope of thick cum deep into your pussy.

Neither of you moved for a moment. You were the first to make a move. Reaching up, you pulled Regulus back down for a lazy kiss. He smiled against your mouth, enjoying the feeling of his half-hard cock still being lodged in your body.

“That was amazing.”

You whispered. Regulus moved to say something but stopped suddenly when he heard someone calling his name. The two of you froze for a moment before quickly dressing. Regulus turned his attention back to you.

“Take the second door and take a right, that will get you out of here without anyone noticing.”

You nodded before quickly putting your shoes back on. Turning your attention back to Regulus, you stroked a finger down the bridge of his nose as the door handle began to turn.

“Thank you, Father.”

You whispered before rushing out of the room.

The next morning, you walked back into the church. You were hoping for another repeat of the previous day's events. Maybe this time, it could end with a little more cuddling and a lot less hurrying out.

Regulus looked up when you stepped into the sanctuary where he was quietly getting this ready for the next service. When he didn’t smile or let any emotion come across his face, your heart began to pound. Something about the look on his face made your heart pound.

“Y/n.”

He greeted you with a formal tone. It wasn’t the tone of the man that you had made love with the day before.

“Regulus…It's good to see you…I was wondering if you would…”

Regulus held a hand up.

“Yesterday shouldn’t have happened. It was a mistake and I should have never given into that temptation.”

Regulus felt instantly guilty at the stunned expression on your face. He never wanted to hurt you but he felt as if he had to.

“You seemed to feel differently yesterday.”

You replied, feeling a surge of annoyance come through you.

“Yesterday I was tempted and gave into a sin that I promised to never commit. I’m sorry, Y/n but I have worked too hard to throw everything away for a showgirl. You must understand that I am a priest not some boy toy for you. Perhaps you should…”

You held a hand up.

“You’ve made your feelings clear.”

“Y/n…”

You didn’t wait to give Regulus a second to talk before turning and walking from the church without another word. Maybe you were foolish for hoping that something would come from this. You were foolish for thinking that maybe Regulus would be more than just a priest…maybe it could have been love? Would you ask Regulus to give everything up based on one day of passion-filled romance? No, but what if it could work out?

Not now….

You thought before disappearing down a busy street and out of sight.

______

@amelie-black @justfinishthis @jessyballet @knreidy1 @georgeweasleydumbhoe @criminalyetminimal @jsjcue @ell0ra-br3kk3r @livshifts @mimisparkle12 @teletubiswszpilkach @golddustwomann @siriuslyceleste @bxcndd @stelleduarte @millies0bsimp @coffeeaddictednymph @readtomeregulus @rogue-nyx88 @i-love-scott-mccall @s-we-e-t-t-ea @taylor-will-be-the-death-of-me @f4iryluvy @buttercup-beeee @panpride @saramaple @missgorldafirst @gugggu6gvai @jag9000 @quinis @haroldpotterson @yousmellllikecaca @mentally-unstable-hoe @goldensunshineshit @aurorasnape12 @ad-astra-again @padf00ts-l0ver @rubyroscoe1 @lucasfilms77 @spideyxalmighty @dumybitch @ravenhood2792 @play-morezeppelin @melaninnbarbie @marichromatic @lostarc24 @un-lovesherself @brokencasbutt67-writer @authoressskr @moldy-old-boot @hankypranky @summer-novak @emiwrites3reads @shaylybaby2032 @li0nh34rt @tas898 @untoldshortsofthefandoms @deanwherescas @shitfaceddaniel-blog @sprnaturallover @wontlookaway @mycuddlycorner

[thatscarletflycatcher]

The more the time passes, the more convinced I am that a reading of Jane Eyre that omits the theme of mercy as key to the story is incomplete at best and bad at worst.

[fumifooms]

You're always so on point with your posts. On that note, it made me realize that; Considering the themes of desires in DunMeshi. It's also to say that what you think you want isn't what you actually want.

Like, Marcille thinks she wants the handsome prince from the novels she reads... But what she actually wants is someone maybe more like her father who she admired so much. Kind, virtuous, caring to a fault, a family man. Things she later finds in Chilchuck.

Because as traumatizing as it was to see her mother's spiral after her father's death; Her memories of her father itself are some of the most important to her. And it fits with her pursuit to increase her loved ones' lives, because she does want what her mother and father had.

Sipping. I do go over ‘what you think you want vs what you actually want + what you need’ in my (upcoming) Marcille & Chil arc analysis ;) It’s a part of Dunmeshi that I really like and is super fascinating, I’d honestly like to make an analysis-post on the topic: all the different threads and characters in canon that reflect that, desires vs wants and themes of idealization in Dunmeshi, but it’s one of those things that’s just so huge to make. See this is the freaking problem with doing Dunmeshi meta you start talking about the themes or a narrative and everything is so interwoven you get distracted with tangents BUT IT’S ALL COMPELLING AND RELEVANT

I know that’s something laimar does a lot too, the dad thing, with Marcille in a post-canon comic knitting beside him paralleling her parents and whatnot. I don’t know if I fully agree on the angle but there’s definitely stuff to dig at there…

Like I know that I’d like to analyze Marcille’s succubus more, it comes up in my analysis draft but it’s not the point I’m trying to make there so I focus on other stuff but… I always saw the focus of Marcille’s succubus as that she sought out an emotional connection most of all, it’s romantic and courtly in nature but more importantly there’s personality and behavior there and it’s a character she already loves and knows deeply from having read the series, so it’s not like Chil where it’s just a pretty face whose identity doesn’t matter. A friend of mine though, @room-surprise, goes with the angle that it shows she isn’t ready for a relationship and that the appeal is very self-centered, and I def think compelling points are made…

Point I was trying to make, the succubus is definitely at the crux of figuring what it is Marcille wants and craves in someone I’d say, where she’s emotionally at wether consciously or subconsciously, or how she sees herself being involved in romance at least… It’s true Marcille is enthusiastic about romance, but always someone else’s, never hers, and she seems unwilling to examine her own relationships with people. She oversteps boundaries either obliviously or carelessly and doesn’t like change…

and then there’s how complex people’s relationship to fiction can be on top of that and graaaaah

Edit in bc I forgot I wanted to mention this like an idiot: OH and I do think the Daltian Clan serves a role in the general tapestry of Dunmeshi as well, sometimes in in depth ways that Room-Surprise will tackle in their research paper way better than me I’m sure. My understanding of the importance of general Hagreus in a more general narrative sense is that he reinforces the theme of idealization/fantasy vs reality that’s super present through the manga. Beyond just Marcille’s arc and his importance to her he’s designed uncannily close to Mithrun, it feels parallels of real elves and their very flawed military system and the broken people it cultivates vs the romanticized elves put on an aesthetic pedestral in novels, especially considering it’s "general" Hagreus

To give some previews of the analysis wip: Thus the succubus targets Marcille’s wish for a perfect knight who could cherish her forevermore, someone safe and known and fantastical, just hers in a way, free to see and construct however she wants because he’s a character to interpret Dungeon Meshi is in part about resisting desires, the irrational cravings, mostly through the character of the demon. I mentioned needs earlier, and to ideals vs wants we also add vs needs, both emotional and physical. And needs alongside wants are what Dungeon Meshi wishes to promote for a healthier person. Dungeon Meshi illustrates very well with the dungeon lords that you can be a slave to your desires. Dunmeshi prones the important of balance for both a healthy body and a healthy mind, and the arc of optimism vs pessimism with Marcille & Chilchuck is one such case <3

Ouuuugh how flawed relationships with flawed people can still be made into somehing good and healthy that make the world brighter…

We’ve gone far from the topic of how her family shaped what she seeks in relationships haha, I think you put it well already though I don’t have much to add on that front Edit in 2: SIKE! I’ll add that there’s an interesting thread in the manga of Marcille maturing and becoming more like her mother, which would be interesting and fun to pair with the fatherhood of Chil. Because Marcille is sometimes a mother figure as well: she’s the mom friend. I go over it here, and since when I made that post I’ve seen more interesting analysis on the topic too, like noticing she hides behind her mother’s portrait in the nightmare chaoter, perhaps the inspiration behind her more mature reserved academic persona she sometimes has. Her parents are def important to her so it’s interesting to see how all the dynamics and her own psychology fit into that….

But yeah I think what she (thinks she) wants out of romance has a lot of layers, both conscious and subconscious… I haven’t gone into the bigger picture of how fiction affects her relationship here but it’s the central topic of my Marcille & Chil arc analysis so. She idealizes the trope of the prince charming and finds it attractive but is that what she would actually latch onto… Is it fully superficial, is it more about herself than it is about her potential partner... Is it mainly because she wants to get validation, from being special that she typically gets from high academic performance… We do see she can be rather insecure and worried about others’ perspective of her, that they think she’s not useful or capable enough, especially in the mandrake chapter… Unconditional love perhaps

What is your emotional landscape Marcille. How emotionally intelligent are you. I don’t think she knows what she wants romantically. I think she has a job so she don’t really care about that rn I’m just not sure if we can figure out what she ~actually~ wants on her behalf that might be too many levels of interpretation but idk idk, thinking on it still

[ultra-raging-ghost]

i love that bads cannonically given birth to -Many skeppy jrs (explicitly) -a phoenix (explicitly) -Dapper (implied)

The fact that 2/3 of those came out of eggs implies that he just fucking lays eggs so its implied the skeppy jrs ALSO hatched out of eggs

[strangefable]

thank you for the many, many tags over the past... let's not count the time. but thank you to everyone who's continued to tag me for wips <3 most recently @inafieldofdaisies, @direwombat, @adelaidedrubman, @cassietrn, @socially-awkward-skeleton, @trench-rot, and many many more, thanks so much to everyone who thinks of me <3

today, i have a little bit of the opening chapter of the atlanta prequel to share:

Micah slowed her bike. Wouldn't do to get pulled over for speeding. Not with what sat strapped to the bike behind her. She felt the hard, sharp edges even through the leather of her jacket. She could almost hear ticking in the back of her mind; that thing may as well have been a bomb.

Hell, a bomb would’ve been less unnerving.

She followed the monotone, mechanical voice in her ear as it directed her to the appointed address. She felt a twinge in her neck as she tried to look up to the top of the building. Dark, ominous, sharp. It was a vague shape in the dark night sky, but it still felt foreboding as she gazed upward.

She pulled her helmet off and shook her head, releasing her hair as well as the chill along her spine. She was just a mechanic, but she was not going to get intimidated by some slick, rich asshole too impatient for his coke to wait for a regular mule.

As she entered the lobby, she saw the sleek marble floors, the stark modern architecture. There were heavy plaques on the wall with mysterious names. An office. A swanky, high tower one. Ballsy place to take in a delivery like the one she carried.

A man behind the security desk eyed her suspiciously. She offered him her sweetest, doe-eyed smile. “Hi, I have a delivery for…” she glanced down at her phone, “Mr. Duncan.” She looked back up at the security guard, still smiling warmly.

He grunted, waved his hand toward the metal detector. “Of course he’s still here,” he muttered to himself, before meeting her gaze.” 38, top floor.”

She hesitated as she stared at the metal detector’s arch. She took a few slow steps toward it, wondering how sensitive it was. At least she didn’t have to explain a gun, since hers was locked safely at home.

The detector went off as soon as she stepped through. She winced and stepped back.

The guard gave her a knowing look. “What’re you carrying?”

She attempted another smile. “Just a knife. It—”

He smirked and waved a hand. “Yeah, you’re not the first. Most of the couriers have some kind of protection these days. Can’t be too careful.” He nodded her through, ignoring the alarm as it went off again.

She nodded and smiled. “Yeah. Thanks.” His casual attitude about the whole thing surprised her, but she wasn’t about to argue. She wanted to get this over with and get the fuck out of here.

The whole place reeked of wealth and prestige and it made her skin crawl. So much metal and isolation from a single natural thing. So cold and uniform. She hated shit like this. Not that she’d admit it aloud, but it made her ache for home.

The elevator stopped at the top floor, and Micah ducked out swiftly, grateful to escape the grating music that jangled her nerves even more. Why did the wealthy always have such bland taste in everything?

She entered another lobby, but straight ahead was a formidable wall with a list of large, brass-lettered names behind a block of marble that must’ve been a reception desk. The woman seated there had a strained look on her features as she glanced over at Micah. Instead of a greeting, she only offered a stony, questioning stare.

Micah made a small sound in her throat. “Uhm. I…I have a delivery for Mr. Duncan. Urgent, I was told.”

The woman’s eyes went glassy at the name, and her expression seemed to grow even tighter. “Of course. Down the hall, Fourth door on your left.” She pointed to a hallway to her right.

Micah nodded and followed the directions. The lighting was low everywhere, probably dimmed to save cost outside of normal business hours. She wondered what kind of business it was they did here, then she stopped herself. She didn’t want any details at all. “I’m just a mechanic, that’s all.” She mumbled softly as she came to a stop outside the large, solid wood door.

It was floor to ceiling and she felt a sudden urge to run anywhere else. Instead, she lifted her hand and rapped her knuckles against the wood.

“Yes?” The voice was smooth and sure, the barest edge of a threat beneath the word. Why did the image of a shark swerving beneath the water flash into her mind? She shook her head and pushed open the door.

“Delivery for Mr. Duncan.” It felt so stupid to say, but what the fuck else could she say? This was not her job. She would not let this become her job. She didn’t want the heat of being a mule; she’d made that abundantly fucking clear.

Yet here she stood.

“Come in.” The voice was clipped and cool, all business, but with an attempt at warmth. A small measure to pretend at civility, she supposed. She opened the door.

To her surprise, this room was not all sharp, sleek steel and concrete. It was lined everywhere with deep, rich wood. The scent of it filled her lungs, soothing, familiar. She blinked as her eyes took in the shelves lined with thick, heavy looking tomes. There was a wet bar taking up a whole wall, and it was where most of the room’s light came from.

That and the Tiffany lamp sitting on the gargantuan desk in the middle of the room.

A large, sleek, black, leather chairback greeted her. “You’re late.” The chair swiveled suddenly but soundlessly. A man with piercing blue eyes and a firm mouth stared at her. He peeked his fingers together in front of his face. One eyebrow lifted slightly as he took in the sight of her. “And you’re new.” A glint flashed in his eyes.

She narrowed her own. “No, I’m not. I’m doing a one time favor. Because, I’m told, you were very… insistent.”

His lips curved into a mirthless half smile. “Oh, is that how they phrased it?”

She snorted. “I could read between the lines. Not exactly anyone’s first choice to send a mechanic, but no one else was aw—available.” Her eyes darted away from his. “Mierda.” The whisper escaped her lips before she could stop herself. Shit. SHIT. She was saying too much.

She felt his eyes as he trailed them down her body. She felt them lingering around her curves, so easily displayed by her tight leathers. She shifted her weight and clutched her helmet closer to her body, as though it were a shield. A poor one, but what else did she have?

When she looked up again, she found his eyes staring directly into hers. His expression was unreadable as he forced his gaze on hers. She resisted the urge to clear her throat or look away. Something in his eyes reminded her of the predators she’d faced in the backcountry. You don’t look away from a predator when it’s sizing you up, so she steeled her nerves and met his gaze, her lips pressed thin and straight.

He smiled. Tight. Sharp. Too feline to be real, despite the straight, glaring whiteness of his teeth. It was a smile meant to disarm, but she knew better. “They have been rather… less than satisfactory of late. I’ve been considering exploring other avenues.” His eyes looked her up and down once more. “However, I might be amenable to changing my opinion.” As his eyes met hers again, the weight of his meaning settled heavy on her shoulders.

She shrugged slightly. “That’s above my pay grade. I’m just here to give you what you ordered.”

He ignored the package she held out to him. “You’re not curious?” He took a step toward her. His hand lifted, but instead of the package, he slipped his fingers around her wrist.

She shook her head. “They don’t pay me for that.”

“What do they pay you for?” Another step closer. His fingers tightened. His other hand rose to rest lightly against her waist.

tagging onwards (no pressure at all ever <3) @ivymarquis, @v0idbuggy, @derelictheretic, @henbased, @redreart, @wrathfulrook, @confidentandgood, @damejudyhench, @florbelles, @jillvalentinesday, @marivenah, @harmonyowl, @unholymilf, @shallow-gravy, @g0dspeeed, @strafethesesinners, @fourlittleseedlings, @voidika, @foibles-fables, @chazz-anova, @josephseedismyfather, @turbo-virgins, @roofgeese, @i-am-the-balancing-point, @poisonedtruth, @simplegenius042, @incognito-insomniac, @dumbassdep, @theelderhazelnut, @legally-a-bastard, @aceghosts and anyone i still have managed to miss in this list. (also if you don't want me tagging you, drop me an ask or a dm and no questions will be asked <3) edit: trying to fix tags.

[good-beanswrites]

🎬: About Es being a past prisoner and the secret 11th prisoner in your AU. But advance apologies if I'm overstepping into your AU!

I had this idea from a story that pretty much did the same thing. Going off there are novels/manga on Milgram and there being another Es and their own prisoners running another Milgram (but differently) I imagine this Milgram projects has been going on for a while, and our Es was from a previous project who might have gotten the worst verdict (or the most spared out of everyone), and was given this final task as a warden for the next group of prisoners. This is why they so readily agreed and had their memories wiped for this Milgram project instead of being weary on a shady project on judging an almost crime, they've already been through this.

(BTW is it bad and worrying for one of our ten fav prisoners to be the next Es if this is legit...)

Anyway, that's why Es is in Milgram in your AU, I guess? And the lore drop that Kotoko picks up on them being the 11th prisoner, I can imagine her also talking to Kazui since he's a policeman to see if she could cross out any theories on who Es is (Did they look familiar. Possible missing child. Any cases to do with an almost crime by a child other than the 10 of them here). Kazui knows Kotoko wants to investigate, but reminds her that, like in their prison while the trial is on, the facilities they're in have high security too. They do have the freedom to move about, but still limited.

If they're trying to investigate Es, maybe Fuuta, Kotoko and Mikoto can try to do the hacking on the comp Mikoto's allowed to use to Photoshop some shots for the MVs and photos (Fuuta and Kotoko seem to be able to search up info they need I think...). Yuno, Mahiru and Muu can work on charming the staff to see if they can spill more deets on Milgram. Not sure how much the group can gather, but oh boy fun times in Milgram can turn into another sort of stress in this AU...

No worries!! Like I said before, this whole au has been a fun collaborative project, so there's no overstepping :) I am sorry I won't be writing a lot on the ending until we get more info, but that's just the perfectionist in me who doesn't want to be proven wrong 😅 Still, I love tossing around and digging into ending scenarios, I really love this!

Because that would make a lot of sense why they're so willing to subject themself to the whole experiment! They remember how tough their experience was, and are confident they can care for the new set of prisoners while doing their job. I'm imagining they get the opportunity to return as guard, and get to have a nice talk with their own guard first. Once they fully understand what it's like, they're know they can handle it and sign up. It adds a bit of drama, too, since they must have been really young committing their crime in order to complete a years-long experiment prior to this one. They would have been like 10? Oof. (Now I wanna see their three trial songs 👀)

And like you said, that also brings up the question of the new warden. Though I think it's based on verdict results, I can just picture Jackalope keeping an eye on everyone during filming. He studyies their interactions and personalities, keeping his own set of notes on who would make a good successor. (I'm not going to go through every character but there are pros to any choice, it's very fun picturing them all taking the job.) Haha, on the other hand, maybe the reason Kotoko keeps bringing up her role as Es' partner/bringer of justice is because she did discover the truth. She drops as many hints as possible so she can be chosen next 😅

Ooh, I love her working with Kazui on an investigation! The fact that eh may know details on recent crimes (and almost-crimes) is super fun to work with. He's the last person who's going to spill a secret, so the group could go several trials without realizing Kazui had actually heard all about their situation this whole time.

(Getting sidetrack for a sec, I'm suddenly realizing that he and Kotoko may have heard things about the crimes in canon, too. They're a bit unclear about how much time passed between the murders and arriving to Milgram, so maybe he heard some things. I don't know how well-connected Tokyo police departments are, but Yuno, Fuuta, Muu, and Shidou are all nearby. There's definitely a chance he caught word of the vigilante nearby, and she heard about the odd policeman's suicide. Both of them could have heard about the tragic housefire, the disgraced doctor, or horrible schoolgirl murder nearby.)

Anyway, I like that idea of Kazui wracking his brain for any similar cases. Though, if he had, Milgram may have had the foresight to wipe parts of his memory, too. Maybe he does end up using his call to reach out to Hinako and have her look into it from the outside. Sadly, Kotoko seems the type to sacrifice her personal call to reach out to a connection who can help as well. I'll have to think about how closely Jackalope monitors those calls, hm.

I'm going crazy over prisoner investigation team !! Kotoko and Fuuta had the online knowledge to find some good info, and Mikoto and Kazui seem like they'd have a huge network of people they can ask for info and favors from. Haha, I'm torn whether Mahiru would have flirting down to a science or if she'd refuse to do it since it wasn't real love 😂 Still, she's very good at reading people and could definitely help the others charm and bribe their way into some restricted areas. Amane and Haruka can also charm with their innocence/cuteness (though I'm not sure Amane would). Shidou seems very organized, he'd have a plan and backup plan and backup-backup plan ready, no matter what happens. I think it's even funnier, then if Milgram had run several experiments prior. Jackalope would think this was just another runthrough, and for the first time the ten subjects decided to organize together and Cause Problems.

I think there's a beautiful irony in a story featuring ten prisoners planning a jailbreak to save the prison guard...

[aardvaark]

prentiss in demonology: people thought i was a bad influence when i was a teen

everyone in the BAU: you? reallly? that’s kind of surprising, i don’t see why they’d think that.

[a few seasons go by]

everyone in the BAU: ohhh yeah okay i see it now

[symbioticsimplicity]

Y’all what if Lilith didn't choose to take a vaycay in Heaven? What if she got redeemed?

[biomic]

people told you geats was feminist????

people have told me too much about geats! which is why i'd prefer folks not to send their opinions about it to me before i can watch it and form my own!

[gifti3]

I actually kinda liked when mammon came up with that "fundraising" idea in the beginning of his curse

I would genuinely like to see more of that....

[earmo-imni]

Just read your fic!!! ❤️💛❤️ here’s a meme ficlet. As a treat.

Meliodas technically earning his title of traitor the same way he technically earned his title of commandment of love is so funny to me

The Demon King: *cursing Meliodas and Elizabeth* this should teach you to defy ME your MAKER your KING and then double down on it when I show you the pointlessness and utter foolishness of your rebellion like some sort of slobbering lap dog

Meliodas, wandering the human kingdoms: *commits treason with an Elizabeth*

DK: wh. What.

Meliodas: *commits treason with an Elizabeth*

DK: no.

Meliodas: *commits an even more elaborate and audacious treason with an Elizabeth*

DK: you cannot keep this up. This coping mechanism of yours is not only straight bonkers but as hopeless as you standing against me

Meliodas: *commits treason by himself* *commits treason* *commits-*

The Demon King: I fucking. If I had made you piety instead would you have still done this. Do I even want to know what is going on in your brain

DK: at least I have one sane son. Zeldris?

Zeldris, who has been technically commiting treason by being his own person since childhood:

DK: ...Zeldris? What do you have there?

Zel: uh...

Gelda: :3

DK: that can be fixed.

DK: wait...

DK: child of mine. Faithful servant. Harbringer of death. what are THOSE

Zel: ... dreams of a peaceful demon realm..?

DK:

DK: ...

Zeldris: it's okay. Don't try to pretend you understand what autonomy and human rights are. We all know you don't. And yes I talked to my people about that.

DK: how dare you. I understand exactly. what I don't understand, is how you're so stupid you think your sleep habits have anything to do with this

Zeldris:

DK: whatever you're going through that's making you...think... I'm sure it's all in your head. Just a little juvenile sickness. A bit more weakness to stamp out. Just explain and I can clear it all up for you.

Zeldris, exasperated: I was having ideas without your explicit permission. Something that norm-

DK: UNDER MY ROOF??? Well, I suppose I should have expected that from someone like you, but why are you disobeying me right now?

Zel: vague passive aggressive guesturing

DK: come now. You won't think your little rebellion could possibly be coming from some rational place in your mind, do you?

Zeldris: no father. We all know treason grows from the ass, not from deliberate choices influenced by past experiences. where the hell did you think Meliodas got his treasonous thoughts from. You, dumbass! FROM LIVING HERE WITH YOU!

Meliodas, actively commiting more treason: sup little bro

Zeldris: traITOR

Zeldris: omg why are you... w h y...Okay it doesn't matter just stay away from me we all know you only care about peace and Elizabeth

Meliodas:

Zeldris: 👀...U...unless...?

Zeldris: hey... COME TO THE DEMON REALM SOMETIME. TO HELP REBUILD THE CASTLE AND THE CITY. Okay bye brother see you later

The DK, watching them from hell: FORGIVENESS?? forgiveness is for chumps literally what are you doing. Treason this is so much treason

Bonus!

- Zeldris and Meliodas, drinking tea in the demon realm -

Meliodas: I like the new throne chairs you picked, very nice

Zeldris: I'm surprised you didn't throw yourself onto them the first time you saw them

Meliodas: that would be disrespectful. Now as for father’s throne I vote we throw it out into the wilderness and make it a tourist trap

Zeldris: a what

Meliodas: for lovers

Zeldris: whut

Meliodas: come on. The symbolism. You know what I'm talking about

Zeldris. Of course but I'm surprised you have the... The energy to conceive of that. What with the infant and all. I figured you would be... Half dead that's why I invited you over here for so long. You look very alive though

Zeldris: also the baby is right there

Tristian, who was of course brought along for the first couple hours of this visit bc yes and also it will be easier for Ellie to pry their son out of his arms this way: :D

Zeldris: aren't you going to like. Tone it down when you're around him

Meliodas: nah

------

Hope you enjoyed! Have a great day!

Lmaooooooooooo this is great, I love it. As horrifying as it is to consider the possibility that just being your own person might be considered treason under the Demon King, it does make for some very funny jokes.

Also thanks to this I am actively coming up with possible ideas for a “Five Times Meliodas Committed Treason and One Time He Didn’t,” which is probably going to turn out angstier than the title would suggest.

So far I’ve got:

A Robin Hood-esque situation where Elizabeth Number ?? is the Robin Hood figure and Meliodas is the sidekick supporting her and her band of merry men rogues in her quest to overthrow the king and save the common folk (featuring Meliodas getting captured and almost hung before Elizabeth saves him, both of them getting captured and actually hung, or both)

Literally Just Dishonored (basically: Meliodas as the bodyguard of an empress and her daughter (Elizabeth); empress gets assassinated, her daughter kidnapped, and Meliodas gets accused of treason and thrown in prison. Eventually he escapes and proceeds to rescue little Elizabeth, bring down the people responsible for everything (thus debatably committing actual treason), and restore Elizabeth to the throne. Or she dies again for some reason.

…She’s probably going to die in most of these, isn’t she.

At least there would be cute platonic Melizabeth feat: baby Elizabeth?)

The story of Diarmuid and Grainne but it’s Meliodas and Elizabeth instead (iirc: Diarmuid was one of the greatest of an ancient Irish king’s warriors, but was too beautiful for his own good, as the king’s fiancée, Grainne, fell in love with him. Diarmuid and Grainne run away for the sake of love and go into hiding, pursued by the rest of the king’s warriors. Grainne gets pregnant only for Diarmuid to die protecting her from a wild boar and also because his friend and leader of the king’s warriors refuses to betray his king by helping Diarmuid). I’m not entirely sure this counts as treason, but like. It could. Also not sure how I feel about Elizabeth getting pregnant prior to her curse getting broken. Or how to avoid this ending in a demon-goddess hybrid baby several centuries too early.

OOH WHAT ABOUT PIRATE MELIZABETH! Okay, so Meliodas is a ship captain turned privateer, tasked by the queen of such and such kingdom with fighting off pirates. Meliodas goes after the most famous one of them all, only to discover it’s Elizabeth! He then betrays the kingdom to join her. This probably also ends in both of them getting executed, just for piracy this time.

…Okay, I’ve actually checked the definition of treason now, and I don’t think the Diarmuid and Grainne idea would count as treason, but the other three probably would.

You know what would be really funny? The Sins/Zeldris/both somehow hearing all these stories about ancient traitors, figuring out that they were all Meliodas/Meliodas+Elizabeth, and just going up to him and going “What the fuck”

Anyway if you have any ideas (that you would be willing to let me use) or thoughts on my ideas, please do let me know! This is fun hehe

[trixstriforce]

TP!Link is so complex to me, he is a puppet in very sense of the word imo

Link was always a question, at least to me, of a victim of circumstances vs a fated savior. TP!Link is the perfect example of both interwoven into a very interesting narrative that touches on themes like the sins of the father, legacy, and the consequences of colonialism

I think making TP!Link emo miss the mark, but he is a very very interesting guy to deconstruct w/ the quote from Majoras Mask "Your true face...What kind of face is it? I wonder...The face under the mask...Is that your true face?" after all, unlike most Links...he didnt chose to don the Hero's Tunic it was literally thrust upon him. theres a lot to be said about that i think

[bravevolunteer]

thinking about the spare springlock suit that michael gets trapped in in sl. what do you guys think it was :)

[candycryptids]

Gotta. Brace my bones gotta do a bunch the next two days and then I’ll get paid and I can GO!!!! HOME !!!!!!!!!!!!

[thejediexile]

Me, literate, playing Octopath Traveler 2: wow this game about eight separate stories is great

Gamers online, questionably literate: OT2 is still bad because the stories dont combine like i expect them to

[lilmeowmeowsagelesath]

Hiiii, so I don't know who else to ask but do you know if in the newest romance club game Love, Sin & Evil you can balance the stats?

hi! okay well as far as i know as of now it hasn’t been revealed whether it’s possible or not, and i honestly haven’t been trying to balance them, so i’m not sure at all…. sorry! 😬🤧