#Time to exit Middle East

[liberty1776]

Over the weekend President Trump ordered a massive military operation against the small country of Yemen. Was Yemen in the process of attacking the United States? No. Did the President in that case go to Congress and seek a declaration of war against the country? No. The fact is, Yemen hadn’t even threatened the United States before the bombs started falling. Egalitarianism as a Re... Murray N. Rothbard Best Price: $3.44 Buy New $8.95 (as of 07:55 UTC - Details) Last year, candidate Trump strongly criticized the Biden Administration’s obsession with foreign interventionism to the detriment of our problems at … Continue reading →

[gothhabiba]

🍉🇵🇸 eSims for Gaza masterpost 🇵🇸🍉

Which eSims are currently being called for?

Connecting Humanity is calling for:

Nomad (“regional Middle East” plan): code NOMADCNG

Simly (“Palestine” plan)

Gaza Online is calling for:

Holafly (“Israel” and “Egypt” plans): code HOLACNG

Nomad (“regional Middle East” plan): code NOMADCNG (can now be used multiple times from the same email)

Airalo (“Middle East and North Africa” plan)

Sparks (“Israel” plan)

Numero (“Egypt” plan)

For Connecting Humanity: if you sent an eSim more than two weeks ago and it is still valid and not yet activated, reply to the email in which you originally sent the eSim. To determine whether the eSim is still valid, scan the QR code with a smartphone; tap the yellow button that reads “Cellular plan”; when a screen comes up reading “Activate eSIM,” click the button that says “Continue.” If a message comes up reading “eSIM Cannot Be Added: This code is no longer valid. Contact your carrier for more information,” the eSim is activated, expired, or had an error in installation, and should not be sent. It is very important not to re-send invalid eSims, since people may walk several kilometers to access wifi to connect their eSims only to find out that they cannot be activated.

If a screen appears reading “Activate eSIM: An eSIM is ready to be activated” with a button asking you to “Continue,” do not click “Continue” to activate the eSim on your phone; exit out of the screen and reply to the email containing that QR code.

Be sure you're looking at the original post, as this will be continually updated. Any new instructions about replying to emails for specific types of unactivated plans will also appear here.

Check the notes of blackpearlblasts's eSim post, as well as fairuzfan's 'esim' tag, for referral and discount codes.

How do I purchase an eSim?

If you cannot download an app or manage an eSim yourself, send funds to Crips for eSims for Gaza (Visa; Mastercard; Paypal; AmEx; Canadian e-transfer), or to me (venmo @gothhabiba; paypal.me/Najia; cash app $NajiaK, with note “esims” or similar; check the notes of this post for updates on what I've purchased.)

You can purchase an eSim yourself using a mobile phone app, or on a desktop computer (with the exception of Simly, which does not have a desktop site). See this screenreader-accessible guide to purchasing an eSim through each of the five services that the Connecting Humanity team is calling for (Simly, Nomad, Mogo, Holafly, and Airalo).

Send a screenshot of the plan's QR code to gazaesims@gmail.com. Be sure to include the app used, the word "esim," the type of plan (when an app has more than one, aka "regional Middle East" versus "Palestine"), and the amount of data or time on the plan, in the subject line or body of your email.

Message me if you have any questions or if you need help purchasing an eSim through one of these apps.

If you’re going to be purchasing many eSims at once, see Jane Shi’s list of tips.

Which app should I use?

Try to buy an eSim from one of the apps that the team is currently calling for (see above).

If the team is calling for multiple apps:

Nomad is best in terms of data price, app navigability, and ability to top up when they are near expiry; but eSims must be stayed on top of, as you cannot top them up once the data has completely run out. Go into the app settings and make sure your "data usage" notifcations are turned on.

Simly Middle East plans cannot be topped up; Simly Palestine ones can. Unlike with Nomad, data can be topped up once it has completely run out.

Holafly has the most expensive data, and top-ups don't seem to work.

Mogo has the worst user interface in my opinion. It is difficult or impossible to see plan activation and usage.

How much data should I purchase?

Mirna el-Helbawi has been told that large families may all rely on the same plan for data (by setting up a hotspot). Some recipients of eSim plans may also be using them to upload video.

For those reasons I would recommend getting the largest plan you can afford for plans which cannot be topped up: namely, Simly "Middle East" plans, and Holafly plans (they say you can top them up, but I haven't heard of anyone who has gotten it to work yet).

For all other plans, get a relatively small amount of data (1-3 GB, a 3-day plan, etc.), and top up the plan with more data once it is activated. Go into the app’s settings and make sure low-data notifications are on, because a 1-GB eSIM can expire very quickly.

Is there anything else I need to do?

Check back regularly to see if the plan has been activated. Once it's been activated, check once a day to see if data is still being used, and how close the eSim is to running out of data or to expiring; make sure your notifications are on.

If the eSim hasn't been activated after three weeks or so, reply to the original email that you sent to Gaza eSims containing the QR code for that plan.

If you purchased the eSim through an app which has a policy of starting the countdown to auto-expiry a certain amount of time after the purchase of the eSim, rather than only upon activation (Nomad does this), then also reply to your original e-mail once you're within a few days of this date. If you're within 12 hours of that date, contact customer service and ask for a credit (not a refund) and use it to purchase and send another eSim.

How can I tell if my plan has been activated? How do I top up a plan?

The Connecting Humanity team recommends keeping your eSims topped up once they have been activated.

See this guide on how to tell if your plan has been activated, how to top up plans, and (for Nomad) how to tell when the auto-expiry will start. Keep topping up the eSim for as long as the data usage keeps ticking up. This keeps a person or family connected for longer, without the Connecting Humanity team having to go through another process of installing a new eSim.

If the data usage hasn't changed in a week or so, allow the plan to expire and purchase another one.

What if I can't afford a larger plan, or don't have time or money to keep topping up an eSim?

I have set up a pool of funds out of which to buy and top up eSims, which you can contribute to by sending funds to my venmo (@gothhabiba), PayPal (paypal.me/Najia), or cash app ($NajiaK) (with note “esims” or similar). Check the notes of this post for updates on what I've purchased, which plans are active, and how much data they've used.

Crips for eSims for Gaza also has a donation pool to purchase eSims and top them up.

Gaza Online (run by alumni of Gaza Sky Geeks) accepts monetary donations to purchase eSims as needed.

What if my eSim has not been activated, even after I replied to my email?

Make sure that the QR code you sent was a clear screenshot, and not a photo of a screen; and that you didn’t install the eSim on your own phone by scanning the QR code or clicking “install automatically."

Possible reasons for an eSim not having been activated include: it was given to a journalist as a back-up in case the plan they had activated expired or ran out of data; there was an error during installation or activation and the eSim could no longer be used; the eSim was installed, but not activated, and then Israeli bombings destroyed the phone, or forced someone to leave it behind.

An eSim that was sent but couldn’t be used is still part of an important effort and learning curve. Errors in installation, for example, are happening less often than they were in the beginning of the project.

Why should I purchase an eSim? Is there any proof that they work?

Israel is imposing near-constant communications blackouts on Gaza. The majority of the news that you are seeing come from Gaza is coming from people who are connected via eSim.

eSims also connect people to news. People are able to videochat with their family for the first time in months, to learn that their family members are still alive, to see their newborn children for the first time, and more, thanks to eSims.

Some of this sharing of news saves lives, as people have been able to flee or avoid areas under bombardment, or learn that they are on evacuation lists.

Why are different plans called for at different times?

Different eSims work in different areas of the Gaza Strip (and Egypt, where many refugees currently are). The team tries to keep a stockpile of each type of sim on hand.

Is there anything else I can do to help?

There is an urgent need for more eSims. Print out these posters and place them on bulletin boards, in local businesses, on telephone poles, or wherever people are likely to see them. Print out these foldable brochures to inform people about the initiative and distribute them at protests, cafes and restaurants, &c. Also feel free to make your own brochures using the wording from this post.

The Connecting Humanity team is very busy connecting people to eSims and don't often have time to answer questions. Check a few of Mirna El Helbawi's most recent tweets and see if anyone has commented with any questions that you can answer with the information in this post.

[cheesesandwichsanto]

He knew … II

Summary: Reader and Sihtric are seperated but meet again in Hunstanton, after he “betrayed” Uhtred

Pairing: Sihtric x f!reader

Warning: mentioned death, mentioned blood, heartbreak

Word Count: ~5k

A/N: Thank you for giving my first story so much love. I really appreciate that. So this one is a little bit longer than the previous one (even I don’t know what happened, I just couldn’t stop writing)

If you enjoy the story; likes, reblogs and comments are really appreciated 🖤

Again proof-read by my friend @witchezandwonderz

Thank you so much 🖤

Check out her stories. She’s an amazing writer!

Click here for Part I

Click here for Part III

Masterlist

Everyone in Dunholm packed their belongings and got ready to leave for the battle against King Alfred, to fight in the Great Army and to get the chance of being welcomed to Valhalla.

You knew it was just a matter of time before your father or someone else found out you are with child.

Your belly just a tiny bump, hidden underneath your armor.

While getting your horse ready for the journey, your father approached you.

“Are you not feeling well my child? You look a bit pale” he said.

“Just the usual, father, you know I am not fond of riding for a long time” you told him and forced a smile on your face.

“If the ride is too much, tell Ragnar, and we can rest for a bit.” “I know, I know…” you mumbled while nodding your head lightly.

Your father turned around and walked back to Cnut and the others, to discuss the path they were taking.

The journey to the stop along the way and the final camp was exhausting.

The first one somewhere in the woods in the middle of Wessex, the final one in Hunstanton, East Anglia.

When the camp was finally put up, everyone was coping with their own stuff, so no one noticed you laying in your tent all day, except for your friend Brida.

She knew something was wrong, so she dragged you out of the tent to the nearest fireplace and pushed a horn of ale in your hand, trying to cheer you up.

“So, now you tell me what’s wrong. The whole travel here your head was hanging low and you think deeply about something, and I just can’t figure out what.”

“It is nothing, believe me.”

“Doesn’t seem like nothing to me…” Brida mumbled, while taking a sip of her ale.

“Wait, it’s not about that boy, Sihtric was his name right?” She grinned.

Your eyes flicked to hers immediately. “Maybe… depends on how able you are to keep your mouth shut.” You answered mad. “Come on, it can’t be that bad right?” She laughed, but stopped immediately as she saw the corners of your mouth were pulled down.

“I think I am with child…” you sighed, while staring at the dirty ground.

“And he is the father” you said further, gripping the horn with ale tightly.

Brida listened quietly.

“You can’t tell anyone, I don’t want anyone to find out”.

“I mean, at least he’s not a Saxon right” she tried to make you smile “but I won’t tell anyone, not even Ragnar, not a word will cross my lips”. She threw her arm over your shoulder. “I promise.”

You thanked her and sat with her in silence, finally gotten it of your chest.

The next morning you were awoken by a scream, recognizing that voice as Brida’s.

As you exited your tent, you saw Brida and your father circled by numerous warriors.

Not knowing what happened before you saw Brida was trying to attack your father, but he knocked her to the ground.

The circle dissolved.

You were running to her, giving her a hug.

“He’s dead… Ragnar is dead…” she sobbed.

“I.. I have to go, find a place to bury him” she said with empty eyes.

Helping her collect stones for the grave, you let her and Ragnar alone to have their last moment together and you walked back to the camp with Cnut.

Back at the camp you went to your father with him. “We both will lead this army” he told Cnut.

Then he looked at you.

“I want to know you beside me, my daughter.” “I will always be loyal to you father.” You smiled.

He looked at you with pride, laying his hand on your shoulder.

In the evening, while Cnut held his big speech about how Ragnar has been a great warrior and that they are all united as Danes, you stood beside your father, and at the speech's end, when everybody cheered for the battle to come, you just stood there sadly, knowing that you won’t be able to fight because of the little secret you’re hiding.

The camp in Hunstanton was always busy. Warriors were training, maidens were preparing food all day. Cnut and your father talking about battle strategies, while Aethelwold listened carefully and you?

You were just sitting on a stomp next to your father, bored by everything because Brida was not here to keep you company.

Just as you thought you’re going to die of boredom, you saw that stupid fool Haesten with the seer Skade from afar, you were just rolling your eyes and continuing to listen to the battle strategies.

As they got closer, your father got up, and seemed to be relieved that Skade was back.

Haesten told them what happened, that he lost more than half of his men and that she is now his woman.

He was an idiot to think that your father would just accept that.

You got up to stand between Aethelwold and your father, Cnut still stood in front of Haesten.

Skade was chained and sat down at the muddy ground and as she saw you, she was taking a sharp look at you.

“You, daughter of Bloodhair” she was talking to you “I feel it, and I can see it, you are carrying a child, he’s going to be a strong warrior one day.”

Everyone went silent.

You mouth fell slightly open.

No, that can not be, how can she know that? Has she talked to Brida?

Brida is the only one who knows.

Even if they met somehow, Brida would never tell anyone.

She promised you.

But how did she know?

“My daughter is what?” your father asked furiously.

“You heard me Bloodhair, you know that my fortunes are always true” she said, looking arrogantly in your fathers face.

But your father just looked your way, disappointment in his eyes.

“Who is the father of this child?” He asked you, his voice softer as moments ago, but he was still mad.

You remained silent.

“I am not asking you again Y/N. Who. Is. The. Father?”

“Is it important? It is someone who isn’t here, and he doesn’t know I’m with child”

He just run his hand across his face.

“I thought I raised you better, I am really disappointed in you…” he said and turned around to walk away.

Your heart feeling heavy.

You hoped Skade would stay with Uhtred.

She brought nothing but misfortune to everyone.

“Who thought Sigurd’s daughter would get knocked up by some nobody” Haesten said laughing, trying to get a reaction out of you.

“Hey, I am talking to you!” he yelled in your direction. You stared at him.

“I heard you the first time, but I’m just not interested in talking with some moron like you.”

You responded calmly and turned away, looking for you father.

He just has to hear you out.

Standing in front of your father’s tent you took a deep breath, feeling kind of nervous as you entered.

He was leaning against the big wooden table.

“Can I talk to you father?” You asked, your voice not louder that a whisper.

“Of course you can my child” he answered, while sighing out loudly.

“I know you are disappointed in me and believe me, I didn’t plan to get pregnant right now, especially because we are just before a great battle. But I want to let you know that I was really in love with that man, I don’t know if he felt the same and if I will see him again, but now it is how it is. I can’t change the past…” you held in for a few seconds before continuing “The father of this child is a great warrior, just as you are father, and I would be more than happy if my son turns out the same way... ” he listened attentively before he started to speak.

“My reaction towards you was unfair my daughter, I could never be disappointed in you and you know that. I don’t care who the father is, a child is always a blessing” he stepped closer, holding your head between his hands “you are my only child, my only family, my only blood, the only person I trust fully. You are Y/N Sigurdsdottir, and I could never manage losing you.” He held you close, like never wanting to let go of you again.

Then he said “and you know, that after I lost your mother, my beloved wife, that I found almost the same love in Skade again. I want her back…”

You kind of understood him. Kind of.

Fighting for love is always worth it.

But fighting for love you already lost in fighting, is just stupid.

And fighting for a witch who is not interested in him anymore, is just suicide.

A day later, riders on horses came riding up to the campground and got to a hold in the middle of it.

You recognized them immediately as Danes, Haesten’s men, one of them Dagfinn.

And for some reason, underneath them was the man you were never able to forget.

Sihtric.

He was sitting on his horse, seeing you standing by your tent, looking even more beautiful than he remembered.

He felt like being back in Dunholm, looking at you for the first time in his life.

But his glance could only last a few moments, before he was involved into a conversation about what he, one of Uhtred’s men, was doing here.

You stood by your tent watching them talk, as Cnut approached you.

“Will you tell him?” He asked you.

“What will I tell who?” You replied, trying to sound confused.

“Come on, you know what I mean. I watched you two sneaking around in Dunholm, more than once, and I know what a pregnant woman looks like, I have two sons.”

“Why didn’t you just tell everyone when you knew the whole time?” You wondered.

“Because it’s none of my business what you do behind closed doors. So, are you going to tell him?”

“I’m trying to, he has the right to know … we will see.” You spoke, as you entered your tent again.

In the evening, Brida came back from her journey, apparently with a plan to safe Ragnar from Niflheim.

When the night was falling, and nothing but stars were seen at the sky, you were sitting at the campfire with the others.

You knew that Sihtric was watching you from across the fire, but trying not to make it too obvious.

Everyone was having a good time.

Dagfinn asked Sihtric where he was going to sleep, since he does not have a tent nor some furs. Unfortunately Brida saw that as an opportunity to play match maker again.

“Y/N’s tent is one of the bigger ones and she has some furs to spare, he can sleep there.” she stated emotionless, continuing to chew on some chicken wing, not giving a hint what she was thinking.

“Ehhm… right” you replied dumbfounded, not really agreeing with her.

“I am going to bed, good night” you said quickly further, feeling really embarrassed.

Sihtric remained seated for a short while, then he turned to follow, while Cnut said laughing “Hey Sihtric, I know she is a very beautiful woman, but keep your little friend in your breeches”

“No need for that my friend, she already is full” Haesten joked, but got quiet as soon as Brida’s and your father’s stare landed on him.

You gritted your teeth.

You cursed Haesten for his existence.

You wanted to tell Sihtric yourself.

You definitely didn’t want him to find out from someone else.

Well, that really didn’t turn out as planned.

What you didn’t noticed was how Sihtric got really pissed about that comment too.

He was mad he lost you to another man.

This fool could call himself happy to have a beautiful woman like you carrying his child, but he still seems not to be around.

But he didn’t had any right to be jealous. Sidgeflaed was in Winchester waiting for him.

You entered your tent and Sihtric followed slowly after you.

You stood there, your back still facing him.

Turning around, your eyes met. Both of you staring at each other for a while.

Sihtric was the first one to break the silence.

“So… you are with child. Congratulations. Your man must be really excited” he spoke with jealousy.

You looked at him confused.

Was he really that stupid?

“There is no man, I am on my own.” You told him, fumbling to pick out some furs for him.

“And… who is the father?” He asked, still oblivious, staring at the ground.

You looked at him for what felt like minutes. Throwing the furs to the side.

“Sihtric, you are the only man I have shared my bed with in a while, so you tell me” you gulped.

His eyes turned big.

“Wait… you mean… I am… the father?” he asked further, but his voice only a whisper in the dark.

You just nodded.

And then the unthinkable happened.

You thought he would be mad, that he didn’t want to have anything to do with you and the child.

But he pulled you into his body and kissed you passionately, the world around you both completely disappearing. You were breaking the kiss and leaning your foreheads against each others.

There was only you and him (and the little one still inside your belly).

You both crying and laughing at the same time.

It seemed like the perfect world, even if it was for just a moment, you enjoyed every second of it.

Now Sihtric knew for sure, he was going to leave his wife for you.

He didn’t care that you were Bloodhair’s daughter, the enemy, the Dane (even though he is one too).

He was deeply in love with you. He would do anything for you and your child.

But he still has somehow to tell you that he is in fact already married.

He really did not know how and when to convey that information and how you will react.

You were talking the whole night, snuggled up on some furs on the floor.

He wanted to know if anyone knows that he is the child’s father, you just told him that only Brida knows and she would never tell anyone, your trust in her is deep.

He even told you about the curse the witch Skade put on his Lord, and why he has to bring her back to him.

You understood it, curses are not taken lightly.

He wanted your help to get Skade out of the camp.

And you had just one favor to ask of him.

You wanted to go with him - as a hostage.

To give your child the chance to live, not having to grew up in a camp, but rather in a stable home and he agreed.

The following weeks were running by quickly. Sihtric awaiting news from his Lord.

You spend a lot of time together, trying not to make it obvious.

You trained together, sharpened your swords together, ate together almost every meal.

You were again training with Brida for hours.

You missed it dearly to spend time with her.

Unfortunately the ground was so muddy, as it has just rained before, so you slipped and got covered in dirt.

“I think you should go and take a bath” she laughed “maybe your lover wants to join” she suggested, nodding her head to Sihtric and wiggling with her eyebrows, carefully to be quiet enough so only you understood her words.

You just hid her shoulder with your fist in response, grinning from one ear to the other.

Sihtric was sitting at the campfire alone, eating his meal in silence.

You got up to him and whispered in his ear “I need you to do something, follow me, but make sure nobody sees.”

You walked out of the camp and into the woods.

Sihtric finished his food and followed you, always looking around if somebody noticed.

You were waiting for him behind a tree.

You heard the leaves rustle.

You knew it was Sihtric.

He was calling your name and just before he walked past you, you came out of your hiding place and stopped in front of him.

He took your head in his palms and kissed you full of lust.

Not being able to kiss in the camp was bitter.

“So what special task do you need me to do?” He smirked. You came closer to him, your lips just millimeters apart.

“I … I need … I need you … to look out if someone comes while I am taking a quick bath.”

“Oh… eh … alright” he mumbled disappointed.

“What’s wrong? Were you … were you thinking we were going to hump here? So when I told you I need you to do something, you understood that I need you to do me?” You asked kind of amused.

“Yeah… I actually kind of thought that.” He replied flustered while scratching his head in embarrassment.

“I mean, you could just join me, but we have to be quick, it’s freezing” you told him seductively while pulling him behind you to the lake in the forest.

What you two didn’t notice, was a man standing next to a few trees, a few meters away.

He watched the whole scene in front of him.

Dropping the bunch of flowers, he extra picked for you, onto the ground.

His heart shattering into a million pieces.

He saw you walking out of the camp and thought that would be his chance.

He finally found the courage to tell you about his feelings, picking flowers to surprise you but being disappointed to find you with Sihtric.

He thought you being pregnant was one of Haesten’s jokes. He felt like the last jerk.

A long time ago, even before Dunholm, he fell in love with you.

You both even shared a drunken night.

But that was long before Sihtric.

Back then Haesten was always picking on him, even though he’s his second in command.

One day you couldn’t take it anymore, listening to his bullshit and bad jokes all day, so you confronted Haesten.

That was the moment he fell deeply.

The the first time someone vouched for him.

He never showed his feelings for you towards anyone.

He was a strong and feared warrior after all, but he wanted you to notice him, in more than just the way of being a warrior, or maybe a friend.

But it was too late. He missed his chance.

Looking desolate he walked back to the camp.

The next morning you woke up alone, only covered in furs.

Sihtric was already up, somewhere in the camp.

It was cold outside, snowing.

You were just leaving your tent as you witnessed an heated argument between your father and Haesten.

Cnut trying to mediate.

But Haesten provoked you father, by calling him a coward because he fled in Fearnham.

Your father pulled out a dagger, Sihtric holding him back.

Haesten walked aggressively towards your father but Dagfinn got hold of him.

Your father demanded enraged for the square, cutting the throat of Aethelwold’s spy and walking towards his tent.

He wants so see Haesten dead.

You went to your father’s tent, as you saw Skade exiting it.

You passed her.

You both not even giving each other a glance, before you entered and noticed you father’s hair and face already covered in blood.

That meant he was ready to fight.

“What was she doing in here?” you asked, meaning Skade leaving the tent earlier.

“She wants me to kill Haesten. She doesn’t want him to win” you father said, preparing to exit the tent.

You hold onto his arm. “Watch out father, he might be an idiot, but he plays very dirty” you warned him.

“I know what I got myself into my child. Don’t worry” giving you a reassuring smile.

He continued walking.

You followed him outside, to the square where the fight is going to take place.

Cnut is explaining the sanctions.

It is to the death. Valhalla awaits one man.

Then he got out of the square, standing next to you and Sihtric.

“Your father will win, there is no doubt. He is a great warrior” he tried to cheer you up.

The fight started really good for your father, killing Haesten almost a few times, even disarmed him.

He has always been a strong warrior.

When he was tying the knot to end this fight and Haesten’s life, he suddenly became disoriented.

He was reeling and not even able to stand straight.

Skade poisoned him, that snake.

He got that really quickly.

He tried to attack her, but she was able to counter.

Then you saw how she put out two daggers and sinking them into your fathers shoulders.

The world stood still. The only thing you saw was your father’s life left his eyes.

Your color drained from your face.

“NOOOOOO, FATHER!” you screamed.

Flashback to a village somewhere in Norway

“Your footwork is sloppy, and you have to hold your axe higher, try again!” Your father screamed as shoving his shield against yours making you fall backwards on the floor.

“Don’t you think you are a little too hard on her? She is still just a young girl…” your mother said, walking towards both of you.

“There is not such a thing as being too young to train fighting Helga. She got your talent, but she still needs to work on it” your father explained to your mother, who was a well-known Shieldmaiden back in the days.

She just rolled her eyes and smiled. “Alright my dear husband, I just came to let you both know that feast is ready” she said, still smiling while walking back to the Great Hall.

Still hearing your fathers scolding in the distant, what you did wrong this time.

When you came back to reality, you realized you were dragged away by Cnut.

“Hey hey hey look at me” you looked into his eyes, tears running down your face “your father is now in Valhalla, feasting with the gods, Brida made sure he hold his axe”

“But that witch drugged and killed him. It was an unfair fight, father would have killed that turd if she hadn’t interfered.”

“I know, but we can’t change a thing now. Don’t do something you will regret later, we still have to stand together as an army and think about your unborn child” he tried to calm you down.

It kind of worked.

You thought about the words Sihtric told you, that his Lord has to kill her to end the curse. But you knew one thing.

That witch will pay for what she did, either by you or someone else.

You went back to the square, where your father was laying on the floor in his own blood, holding his axe.

You knelt down next to him, laying your hands on his. Your heart is broken. Sitting there in silence for what felt like hours.

“We have to prepare his funeral. His body should not stay in this ugly world longer than necessary. Bring him into his tent and lay him onto the table. You” you pointed to some of your father’s warriors “bring a lot of stones and dig a big hole, we are going to bury him.”

You got up to walk beside the man carrying your father.

Sihtric was one of them.

When they laid him on the table, you told everyone to get out.

You wanted to stay with him one last time.

But Sihtric didn’t leave you alone.

He knew how it felt to lose someone loved, the same pain he felt when he lost his mother.

You just watched your father’s face, scared to forget how he looks.

You run your hand through his bloodstained hair and let your tears fall.

Sihtric pulled you into a hug.

After a while you let go of him.

Your eyes looking from Sihtric back to your father’s face.

Hand back to his hair.

“Everyone saw him as a raged and cruel warlord, bathing in blood and bewitched by some crazy lady. But to me he was a loving and caring father, raising me all by himself since mother passed away.” You sobbed. “He was everything I had” you sniffed, a tear running down your face.

“I know how you feel, I lost my mother when I was really young” Sihtric tried to comfort you.

“I appreciate you trying to make me less sad, but pain is never the same, believe me…” you said with a small smile crossing your lips, caressing his cheek with your other hand.

Your gaze back to your father, you noticed a small leather band hanging at his neck. You pulled it out of his armor and smiled.

“What is that?” Sihtric asked.

Flashback to a village somewhere in Norway

“Father, father” 5-year-old you shouted, while running to a tall man with a face tattoo, standing at the docks with his back to you, talking to some warriors.

“Father, look what I found”.

The man turned around, looking at you, waiting for you to stop in front of him and got on his knees to inspect what you were holding.

It was a flat stone, exactly shaped like a snail shell.

“Y/N my dear child, where did you find that?” He asked with a soft voice.

“I found it in the forest, underneath some moss father” you voice filled with pride.

“Do you know what that is?” “No” “Then let me tell you” he said and leaning in to whisper “That’s the sea snake Jörmungandr, and this stone was sent by the gods, to protect the person who will find it from everything evil.”

“Is that really true father?” You asked.

“Of course it is”

Your eyes turned big with excitement and as fast as you were standing in front of your father, as fast you disappeared.

Your father smiling and laughing as you run away to find your mother.

You showed her the stone and told her what you planned on doing with it.

In the evening at the feast in the great hall you stood shyly behind your mother.

“Go to him, he will love it, trust me.” She spoke gently.

She shove you in front of your father and nudged your shoulder.

“Father… I … I have something for you, it will protect you in all the battles you’re going to fight” you said nervously, while giving him a leather band with the stone you found as a pendant.

Your father looked at it for a while, turning it around, inspecting it.

His mouth formed into a smile.

The biggest smile you had ever seen on him. He hanged the leather band with the stone around his neck, picking you up and shouting, so that everyone in the hall could hear him

“All men want their unborn children to be sons, so they could call themselves blessed by the gods” he said mockingly.

“But only a man with a daughter knows how you feel, when you are truly blessed by the gods!���

Everyone erupted in cheering and laughing.

That was your favorite memory of him.

“He had it with him all those years…” you mumbled.

“Y/N, the stones are collected, the hole dug, the funeral can be carried out.”

One of your father’s warriors interrupted.

“Thank you, Halfdan. Tell the men to bring my father there.” He just nodded.

Everyone from the camp gathered together to pay their last respects to your father. But you wanted to be left alone with him.

You stacked stone after stone on his body.

“I swear by the gods father, she will die a painful death for what she did to you” you murmured.

When you finished, you stayed till the sun set, thinking about your childhood and the time you spend with him, then making your way back to the camp into your tent.

Sihtric was waiting for you inside.

“I know it’s not the right time to tell you, but tonight is the night to disappear” he whispered into your ear. You just nodded.

You were waiting for Sihtrics sign, a rock thrown against your tent. You packed your weapons as you waited, planning to leave everything else behind.

You knew that Skade will be with him, and justice for her will come soon enough.

You noticed them walking across the field to “collect herbs” around a nearby a tree.

You followed them discreetly, with enough distance.

No one noticed you leaving.

Arriving at the tree, the three men were already talking with Sihtric and Skade.

She was kissing Uhtred. His three friends were completely oblivious to the fact you followed.

Suddenly the brown-haired man with the beard noticed, pulled out his sword and pointed it at you.

You halted behind Sihtric and put your hands up. “I thought no one followed you Sihtric? Wait… I know you, I have seen you before, you are the girl from Dunholm, the warrior, the daughter of Bloodhair. What are you doing here?” He wondered.

“Finan, she is coming with us. She is a friend. She is carrying my child…” Sihtric explained. “Your child?” Uhtred asked surprised, “does your wife know about that?”

Your chest thundered with panic, your eyebrows raising in confusion.

You turned to Sihtric, peering your head forwards towards him.

“You’re married!?”

[bvidzsoo]

Every time I see you...chapter 3 ↰

...my throbbing heart rate spikes up

Author: bvidzsoo

Pairing: Song Mingi x female reader

☆ Warning: none ☆ Word count: 5.3k ☆ Rating: sfw ☆ Genre: slice of life, established relationship, post university setting, fluff ☆ Summary: On your day off, you find yourself bringing coffee for Mingi...it's certainly not because you've missed him, no, that can't be, you've been together almost every day this week. So, if that's the case...why do you find yourself thinking about him so much, falling straight into his arms when he show up at your doorstep?

☆ Visuals ☆

M.list ~ Previous Chapter

A/N: Hello, my loves! The third and new chapter is here, sorry for making you wait longer for it but as you know, I wasn't home last week and I postponed yesterday's update in favour of the drabble I wrote with Yunho. To be honest with you all, my motivation for this mini-series also died down quite a bit, and despite having the fourth chapter already written, I don't know when I'll get to write the rest since I'm also preparing for the March Event with Mina...I do have some good news, though, and it's the following: thanks to Mingi's live from last night (and some extra super fluffy pictures that originate from it) my motivation sparked back, but I cannot promise you anything as of now! I mostly write whatever my mood dictates...This is another domestic chapter and I hope you enjoy it, your thoughts and feedback is greatly appreciated. divider

Taglist: @spicxbnny @hongjoongspoetry

🎧𝐾𝑒𝑒𝑝 𝑖𝑡 ℎ𝑢𝑠ℎ ℎ𝑢𝑠ℎ, 𝑏𝑢𝑡 𝘭 𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑘 𝘭’𝓂 𝑖𝑛 ℓ𝜎𝘷𝑒 / ℬ𝑢𝑡 𝘭 𝑤𝜎𝑛’𝑡 𝑠𝛼𝑦 𝑖𝑡, 𝘭’𝓂 𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑘𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑡ℎ𝛼𝑡 𝑦𝜎𝑢 𝑘𝑛𝜎𝑤 / 𝘭 𝑤𝑖ℓℓ 𝑛𝑒𝘷𝑒𝑟 ℓ𝑒𝑡 𝑦𝜎𝑢 𝑖𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝜎𝑢𝑔ℎ /… / ℳ𝑦 𝑝𝑟𝑒𝑡𝑡𝑖𝑒𝑠 𝑝𝑟𝜎𝑏ℓ𝑒𝓂, 𝑦𝜎𝑢 ℓ𝜎𝜎𝑘𝑖𝑛’ ℓ𝑖𝑘𝑒 𝘭 𝒹𝜎𝑛’𝑡 𝑤𝛼𝑛𝑛𝛼 𝑠𝜎ℓ𝘷𝑒 ‘𝑒𝓂 / 𝘭’ℓℓ 𝑠𝑡𝛼𝑦 ℓ𝑖𝑘𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑠, 𝘭 𝑐𝛼𝑛 𝑠ℓ𝑒𝑒𝑝 ℓ𝛼𝑡𝑒𝑟🎧

            My attention switched from my phone to the barista as it was my turn in line to order. I smiled at her and glanced at the menu behind her to ensure they had what I needed.

“An Iced Americano and a Vanilla Frappuccino, please.” The barista typed in my order and then asked whether I’d like a cookie with my beverages, but I declined her offer as she went to prepare the drinks once I paid for my order. I hummed and unlocked my phone while waiting, opening my chat with Mingi. He had the evening shift today, so he had decided to hit up the library on campus with a few of his friends, saying how studying together lately helped with his progress on his research. I had wished him a good day, and Mingi hadn’t texted me since. It didn’t bother me since we didn’t talk that much throughout the day, but he had a habit of checking in every few hours, sending memes or random facts he’d learned through the wonderful place called the internet. They weren’t always accurate and we’ve had our fair share of fights about whether a fact check was needed, but in the end, it was good entertainment that took our busy brains off our issues.

“Here, enjoy it.” I looked up and took the two cups from the barista, thanking her before I headed for the exit, pocketing my phone. It was rather windy today, so I had opted to wear a flannel jacket, my tote bag threatening to slip off my shoulder anytime now. The traffic light was green, so I quickened my pace to reach it before it turned red, hurrying over the crossing as it had started blinking warningly. I was already on campus, the university Mingi had gone to was massive and thus housed multiple stores and even dorms on the far east of the complex. The coffee shops and cheap restaurants were located somewhere in the middle section of the place, making it more accessible for both students and professors if they were in a hurry. The library Mingi was at was located inside the E building, on the opposite end of the dorms, and on the far west. I knew this place well enough because I had gone to university here as well, except that the buildings I frequented most were A and G. The walk between the two was never brisk, but it was filled with silly conversations and lots of laughter with my friends and other classmates as we walked to our next class.

I recognised a few faces here, despite the flux of students, it wasn’t as packed as it would have been in the early morning or at lunch. I knew to avoid those hours, and since it was my day off today, I had decided to be productive and utilise it well. I had to clear my mind, it’s been filled with Mingi too often lately. I’ve always had periods when I yearned to be in his presence more and more, but it’s never gotten this insistent and pressing. I did enjoy being with Mingi, but we needed to have our personal lives as well, which was a line that’s started blurring lately. I couldn’t remember the last time I slept in my apartment, in my bed, all alone. If it wasn’t Mingi coming over, then I would be going over to his place. It was usually just to watch a movie or cook dinner together, perhaps hang out without doing anything, and somehow, it would always end with the other one staying over. It didn’t bother me, on the contrary, I quite enjoyed the closeness between the two of us, but it’s been getting too much. My heart raced in the mere presence of Mingi and I didn’t like the traitorous thoughts that tried to keep me up at night unless I forcibly silenced them. Mingi was a good man, well-behaved and extremely kind, and my mind was trying to trick me into believing that having him with me had turned into a need and that it wasn’t just a want anymore.

I sighed and shook my head, a bit irritated that I was caught up in thought about Mingi again. It’s what I’ve been trying to avoid doing today, and so far, I was majorly failing at it. Building E was right in front of me, so I hurried over to be out of the windy weather, my feet taking me up the marble stairs two at a time until I reached the front entrance. I had to put all my weight into pushing the heavy double door open, and I slightly shivered when warmth engulfed my body. The door of the security guard’s cubicle was open, the middle-aged man was scrolling through his phone as he swiftly looked up, eyes landing on me. I nodded at him in a wordless greeting and he hummed, going back to his phone. I knew my way around here so I had no difficulties navigating around the vast building. There were multiple classrooms in here, the Biology department being located inside this building. I took the stairs to the third floor and passed by the secretary's offices, almost running into a student as they had their nose buried deep in a book, eyebrows furrowed and a scowl on their lips.

“Sorry.” The guy muttered before walking around me, making me shake my head at him. He had come from the library, the tall doors closed and cocooning the room in silence. Usually, drinks weren’t allowed inside, but if you remained in the study hall and didn’t bring it anywhere near the books, the librarian didn’t kick you out for it. I entered the library and cringed when the door screeched…so they still haven’t fixed it, huh? And I graduated three years ago, thought someone would’ve taken care of it by now. I turned left to head for the study hall, listening to the clicking of keyboards and the flipping of pages as students crowded the place. Mingi wasn’t a necessarily loud person, but he didn’t like being restricted, so I knew he wouldn’t wander too far inside the library and stay instead in the study hall, where conversation kept minimal was also allowed.

Rows of long tables and many chairs occupied by numerous students never failed to amaze me, realising just how many people attended the different departments of this university. I couldn’t find Mingi and his friends in the front, so I wandered further inside, searching the room for a guy with black hair and black-rimmed glasses, a crooked smile, and sharp eyes unless they creased at the corner from Mingi’s bright smile. I found myself smiling at the thought of Mingi and tried to control it before anyone would think I was stupid for smiling at literally nothing. And before I could berate myself more, I finally spotted Mingi towards the last three rows, shaking my head because, of course, they would sit there. It was far from the librarian, so it allowed the friend group to converse with each other freely, sometimes even laugh unless they were hushed by those sitting around them. My smile only widened as my eyes fell on Mingi, taking in his colourful attire. He wore a thin striped sweater, the colours being beige, green and navy blue. His hair was brushed out of his eyes and his glasses perched on the top of his head. The dainty choker with a crystal was a gift from me, and I couldn’t help but feel a bit proud that he was wearing it.

Mingi didn’t notice my approach, too focused on his laptop until I was standing by his side, looming over him. The two friends he was here with sat across from him, and they looked amused when Mingi still didn’t feel my presence next to him. I glanced at his laptop’s screen and wasn’t surprised to see him with two different opened tabs, reading while taking notes in a different app. I cleared my throat and placed a hand on his nape, making Mingi jump. He whipped his head back, eyes wide as he stared up at me, then released a sigh and chuckled, leaning back in his chair.

“Hi,” His tone was low, trying not to bother anyone, “You scared me.”

“Sorry,” I hummed, my fingers flexing against his warm skin as I gently massaged his neck. Mingi hummed as he leaned more into the touch, his eyes fluttering slightly closed, “When was the last time you took a break?”

Mingi’s eyes opened as he looked towards his friends, who continued to work on their laptops but offered us friendly smiles to let us know they weren’t ignoring us. The one sitting on the left, Yugyeom, frowned as he seemed to be thinking, “Two hours ago? I think.”

I clicked my tongue and grabbed Mingi’s Iced Americano out of the cup holder, nudging his shoulder. He looked back up at me, eyes falling on the coffee before a wide smile adorned his face. I stared at it, feeling my heart race all of a sudden as Mingi took his coffee from my hand, pressing a swift kiss against my wrist in thanks just as I was pulling my hand back. I gulped hard and averted my eyes, making sure Yugyeom and Jongho hadn’t seen the small action, but they weren’t paying attention to us. Mingi took a sip of his coffee and groaned, slumping back in his chair as my hand was instantly drawn back to his neck, gently massaging his tense muscles. He sighed and let his head fall back, wide eyes staring up at me.

“Thank you, I really needed this.” He wiggled his cup of coffee before taking another sip. I hummed as I trailed my fingers higher, tangling in his black hair as I massaged his scalp, making Mingi’s eyes flutter shut again, “How come you stopped by?”

“I need to do some grocery shopping so I thought I could come by,” I answered, leaning my hip against Mingi and his chair, “Any progress with your research?”

“Yup,” Mingi nodded, sitting up straighter as he scrolled through the document he had been taking notes in, “I have a subject and the first chapter done, I think. I’ll see what my professor says, but it’s looking better than it did two days ago.”

“See?” I smiled, scratching his scalp with my nails like I knew he liked it, “I told you it would be okay, you don’t have to stress so much, Mingi…”

“She’s right,” Yugyeom agreed, flexing his fingers as he scooted his chair back, “You’ll get grey hair strands if you continue like this, man.”

The four of us chuckled as Jongho suddenly groaned, loudly, then shut his laptop, “I’m done for today, my brain is fried. Hi, Y/N, I haven’t even noticed you.”

I chuckled, well accustomed to Jongho since he’d been by Mingi’s side since their first year of university. Yugyeom was a new addition to their friend group, but he seemed like a genuine guy so far. I haven’t had the chance to hang out with him much, but based on Mingi’s stories, he had a good character.

“I think it’s time all three of you take a break,” I noted, their expressions clearly tired as Mingi pouted, shaking his head. Before he could speak up, however, Yugyeom nodded in agreement.

“She’s right, I need to stretch my legs out before I lose them.” He stood, shaking out his limbs, “Anyone wants something from the vending machine?”

“Grab me some sugary stuff, I need some stimulant right now,” Jongho said, rubbing his eyes roughly as Mingi and I chuckled. I hadn’t stopped playing with his hair, and it didn’t seem like he was bothered by it. I found myself smiling once again as I looked down at Mingi, and he must’ve felt my gaze because he tilted his head back, our gazes connecting. He smiled softly, winking before he took a sip of his coffee, and my heart was racing again. It was jarring how quickly my mood changed, I felt lighter in his presence, a little happier and more eager to do things. It was Jongho clearing his throat that snapped me out of my thoughts, eyebrows raised as I turned my head to look at him.

“Seonghwa is planning a get-together for tomorrow evening,” Jongho spoke up, rubbing his bottom lip as he seemed to be thinking, “He’s inviting a bunch of people so it won’t be small, but I know he’s mostly trying to get our friend group together. Wanna come?”

Mingi and I shared a look, understanding passing between us without needing to exchange a word. Mingi nodded as I hummed, offering Jongho a smile, “Are Giselle and Wendy coming?”

“I know he talked to them, so maybe,” Jongho answered and I hummed, feeling excited about the get-together now. It’s been a long time since I’ve seen those two, adult life sometimes gets in the way and restricts you from how often you can see your friends. It wasn’t that the three of us weren’t as close anymore, but we didn’t have to speak daily to remain good friends. Wendy and I still texted every week, she was the closest person I had to a best friend. Giselle, on the other hand, landed a really good job after we graduated and she was travelling often overseas, so I didn’t want to bother her unless she reached out first. She’s always been a dynamic person, I knew she was thriving and would stumble back to Wendy and me when life allowed her to.

“We’ll be coming, I think we both need to unwind a little,” I said and Jongho seemed to agree as he gave Mingi a pointed stare.

“Especially him,” He pointed at Mingi and I had to agree with Jongho, “He told me you two are gonna take off a few days and dip.”

“Really?” The surprise was evident in my tone as I glanced back down at Mingi, adjusting the few strands on top of his head that I had messed up. Mingi nodded, avoiding my eyes for some reason as he took another sip of his coffee.

“Yup, it’s good you two spend some time away from the city. I think I need it too.” Jongho groaned just as Yugyeom returned, a chocolate granola bar in his hand he reached out for Jongho to take. He had grabbed a coke for himself, gulping it down greedily.

“What do you need?” Yugyeom asked as he reclaimed his seat, scooting close to the table.

“A vacation,” Jongho muttered as Mingi chuckled, straw between his teeth as he chewed on it while scrolling through the document he had been reading. I didn’t want to overstay my welcome or keep them from working on their thesis, so I decided it was time for me to go. I only came to give Mingi his coffee, after all.

“I’ll leave you three to continue your studies,” I announced with a friendly smile as I squeezed Mingi’s nape one last time before stepping back, his head turning to look at me, “Have a nice day you three.”

“You too, Y/N!” Jongho and Yugyeom echoed each other cutely and I grinned, waving at Mingi as he nodded, shaking his cup of coffee to make the ice rattle.

“Thanks again, I’ll talk to you later.” I nodded and lingered there for a second, not exactly knowing why, but I wanted one last glance at Mingi. He didn’t look away either, his eyes sparkling in happiness, his shoulders now relaxed compared to how tense they were when I arrived. But I couldn’t stand here all day long and stare at Mingi like a creep, so, I turned on my heels and left, feeling Mingi’s eyes follow me. He always did that, watched me until I was out of his line of sight. It warmed my cheeks and made my heart race once again, feeling secure and safe for some unknown reason. I suppose it was the fact that someone was looking out for me that made me think all that, and yet, I didn’t want to depend on someone else. I wanted to feel secure because of myself and not because I knew someone had my back. Being independent was handy since you didn’t always have someone by your side. I have always hated finding stability in others and asking for validation, and I have always believed that as long as I knew who I was and what I stood for, I didn’t need anyone to encourage me or tell me they were proud of me. I wasn’t doing anything for anyone else in this life, everything that I did was for myself.

After leaving building E and then campus, I was headed towards the shopping centre, rows of different stores lining up and trying to lure you in with sparkly clothes but expensive price tags. I was here for a few groceries and some other things that I needed to pick up, my fridge was close to being empty since I hadn’t bothered to restock it at the beginning of the week. I knew that if Mingi and I were going to the party tomorrow, I wouldn’t have to cook dinner for Friday night, so having ramen tonight was more than satiating. I would figure something out for the weekend, perhaps I would manage to trick Mingi into coming over just to cook something for us. He was a much more talented chef than I was, after all. And just because I felt like treating myself a little today, I would grab some purple lilies on the way home and a slice of red velvet cake from my favourite patisserie.

            The rest of my morning went just like I had planned it last evening. I got up early and made breakfast from whatever I still had in my fridge, I went and grabbed some coffee for Mingi before stopping by the library, and then I went grocery shopping. I even got myself some pretty flowers and the incense my boss had recommended for a lighter space, and then…came the grand deep cleaning of my apartment. It’s not like it needed that much scrubbing, but when I had a spur of energy, I would always channel it into cleaning the apartment until it was spotless again. Besides, when my emotions got too heavy and my thoughts too loud, distracting myself by tidying up my space has always helped greatly. At first, for white noise, I had put on a podcast about whatever life-changing events celebrities were up to today, but soon got bored of that and switched to music. That seemed to help a lot more as I was done with my living room in no time, glancing around and wondering how to make it homier.

I liked it as it was already, coated with beige and maroon ornaments, a dark green sofa, plants that I should definitely take more care of, books stacked upon each other in a corner, and the vinyl player I had gotten from Mingi a few years ago as a present. I had a small coffee table in front of my sofa and then a smaller wooden holder for my laptop or whatever else I wanted to store on it. The entryway was connected to the living room, thus I thought of filling up the dark space of the main corridor, wanting to see the paintings that I had hung up without having to walk close to them, or without having to switch on the big lights. The bathroom was next, which was easy to clean as the space wasn’t too big, then came my bedroom which was the most challenging one. Changing the sheets always took away my willpower to live, and I couldn’t explain why. It just sucked the joy out of my body and I found myself faceplanting on the bare mattress, groaning into it. My phone was by my side somewhere, perhaps tangled up in the sheets or hidden under another bare pillow, but I could still clearly hear my music.

I felt around for it until my fingers finally touched the cold gadget, and then I grabbed it and flipped onto my back, unlocking it. My mother had sent me a picture of a beanie she had crocheted, asking whether I wanted it. I quickly let her know that it was pretty but she’s already given me like five of those, so she should probably just give it to my little cousin. Then, scrolling through the messaging app, I found myself stopping when I came across Mingi’s name. He was right underneath my mother’s chat since he was the person I texted most. The picture he had sent of the kitty from the café was the last message he had sent today, and I sighed, chewing on my bottom lip. I knew he was busy, the café was crowded from around noon until late afternoon, but Mingi always found time to somehow text me. I knew him not talking to me for a few hours meant nothing major, sometimes we wouldn’t speak for half a day, but I felt the sudden urge to speak to him. Dialling him up wasn’t an option since he most likely couldn’t take my call, and I could’ve texted him but I had already reacted to the kitty picture with a small heart. Genie was cute, but Mingi was cuter as he held her to his chest, visibly cooing down at her.

I groaned and locked my phone, letting my head fall back against the mattress, the wheels turning in my head. I was borderline getting desperate and it was worrisome, this hasn’t happened before. I couldn’t even blame it on having sex with Mingi because this wasn’t the first time and wouldn’t be the last time either. This is who we were, friends who shared something deeper and more intimate. Nobody asked weird questions, and neither one of us tried to make it awkward, we just went with the flow. It was easy and very practical, I wouldn’t have stayed with Mingi if he had demanded a relationship, or had tried to make it seem like this thing between us was something more…because it wasn’t. Never had been and never would be, there was no reason for it. Relationships rarely worked out in the long run these days, and I wasn’t up for an unnecessary heartbreak when things were good like this. I knew Mingi felt the same way, our mindset was so similar that I was frightened by it at times, but maybe that’s why we worked so well together in this friendship…or situationship—whatever it was—we have never labelled it. I do view Mingi as my friend, though. I released a long sigh before bouncing off the mattress and springing back into action. I still had a lot to clean and it wouldn’t be done by itself. My bedroom was still a mess, my closet begging me to finally fold my clothes and put them back on their hangers.

So, once I was done with my bedroom too, I forced myself to be done with the kitchen as well, knowing that if I didn’t do it now, I wouldn’t do it anytime soon. To my luck, the kitchen didn’t need a lot of work. I rewarded myself with fresh and cold orange juice once I was done with everything, opening my window and leaning against the wall as I gazed out at the sky. The evening had arrived, the sky swirled with orange and pink hues, and birds flew overhead to somewhere warmer now that the summer was over. I loved looking at the sky, its colours were always pretty and gentle. It reminded me to take a deep breath, stilling my nerves and staying level-headed when I felt lost. Like right now with my phone in my hands for the nth time today, checking whether I had any new messages. I didn’t because Mingi still had an hour until his shift was over and he hadn’t used his phone this whole day after our chat in the morning. I sighed and pushed off the wall, placing my cup of orange juice on the counter as I headed for a much-needed shower.

Once done with my shower and skincare routine, I went to my bedroom and picked out clean pyjama pants, the white tee sitting neatly on top of my other tees catching my eyes. I grabbed it and pulled it out, bringing it up to my nose without hesitation to take a deep whiff of it. It smelled like Mingi, his strong and musky cologne, a bit faded since it’s been in my closet since his last visit, but it was still so him. Without giving myself time to reconsider my actions, I quickly pulled it over my head and shivered when the cold material touched my heated skin. It was a bit too loose for me, but it didn’t bother me as I closed my closet, grabbing my hairbrush to brush the knots out of my hair. It’s been in a bun all day long and I groaned as I gave my scalp a massage, the relief instant. I was bound to become hungry anytime now, so, without waiting for my stomach to rumble in hunger, I headed back to the kitchen to grab the Jin Ramen and prepare it for dinner. My phone was in the pocket of my sweatpants, and I found myself looking out for any vibrations as I poured water into the small pot. I took it to the stove and lit it, placing the pot over the stove head. Now I had to wait until the water started boiling, so I pulled a chair out and grabbed my phone again.

My battery would die soon, so I debated whether to put it to charge now or later on when I’d sit down to watch a new episode of the series I started watching this week. Something didn’t let me part from my phone, however, a gnawing feeling overtaking my stomach as I sighed, burying my head in my hands. What was happening to me? Why did I want to talk to Mingi so badly all of a sudden? I usually loved it when he gave me space, it felt refreshing to be with myself for the time being, but it seemed as if today all of those emotions had never existed. To distract myself, I settled on playing a puzzle game which only angered me, but at least it took my mind off Mingi for the time being. Just as I ran out of time and was ready to chuck my phone at the wall, there was a knock at my front door. I froze for a second, wondering whether I had imagined it at first or not, but there came a second knock. My eyebrows furrowed as I got up from the table, phone in my pocket now, headed for the front door. I wondered who it was at this hour. I hadn’t ordered delivery and Mingi hadn’t texted me about coming over, so I was left wondering. My mother certainly wouldn’t take a bus out of the blue to come to the city, it was usually me going home to her.

Looking through the peephole, my stomach lurched at the man standing outside my door, and I was unlocking the door before I could compose myself. I swung it open with big eyes, staring at Mingi a little starstruck as he stood with a smile, his eyebrows raised when he noticed my expression.

“Hi, am I bothering you?” He asked, glancing past me inside the apartment. I shook my head and took a step back, leaving space for him to come inside.

“Not at all,” I answered as I closed the door behind him, locking it again, “What are you doing here?”

Mingi shrugged, stepping out of his shoes as he let his backpack rest against the wall in the entrance hall, “I was thinking that maybe…I can sleep over? I know I didn’t text you beforehand, I’m sorry, but I’m so tired I forgot to do so.”

“Busy day at the café?” I asked as Mingi placed his jacket on the hanger, nodding with a long sigh, “You can stay, I was just making ramen for myself. Want some?”

“Yeah, I’m kind of starving.” Mingi rubbed his belly with a wince, “The last blueberry muffin I ate was at around…five o’clock.”

And now it was close to nine o’clock, I shook my head at Mingi. He looked sheepish as he shuffled on his feet, probably preparing himself for an earful, but suddenly the words were stuck in my throat. Looking at him felt…it made my heart race once again now that he was finally in my apartment, by my side. I had wondered all day long what he was up to, whether he was tired or not, if he’d want to hang out after his shift, and now that he was here, I felt like I could finally settle down, hoping that my thoughts would finally just stop. I don’t know what took over me, but I had the sudden urge to wrap my arms around him and squeeze him to myself, so I stepped forward and hugged him, closing my eyes as I buried my face in Mingi’s neck. He froze, a small gasp leaving his mouth as I gripped his light sweater tightly, just inhaling his familiar cologne. I could feel my tension melt away now that I felt his warm body pressed against mine so securely and firmly, and I gulped when he finally wrapped his arms around me too. Mingi’s hug was just as soulful as mine, and I had to chew my bottom lip as I had the sudden urge to cry…I had no idea why, though.

“What’s the hug for?” Mingi’s voice was quiet and warm as one hand raised to pat my head, I felt his chin pressed against the top of my head.

“I don’t know,” I muttered, a bit embarrassed to admit the real reason, but I also didn’t want to hide it from him, “I’ve missed you, I guess.”

Mingi laughed, quietly but joyfully, and I pouted…at least he hadn’t made fun of me. He then squeezed me into himself more and rubbed his chin against my head playfully, “It’s okay, I’ve missed you too.”

“Really?” My heart skipped a beat as Mingi hummed, low in his chest.

“Really.” He confirmed and I smiled, wondering why my body was suddenly flooded with so much warmth. We stayed in the hug for another second or two, until Mingi’s stomach rumbled loudly and it made both of us laugh before we broke the hug. He rubbed his belly as his cheeks flushed, pouting his lips as I shook my head at him.

“You can’t starve yourself, it’s not healthy.”

“I know, but I lost track of time.” Mingi sighed, then batted his lashes at me almost cutely, “Can I shower while you make us ramen?”

“Of course,” I chuckled, headed for the kitchen as Mingi grabbed his backpack, “But I’m watching my series after dinner, so I’m not going to bed early today.”

“Okay, I want to watch whatever you’re watching, then.” I scoffed and threw Mingi a look, but he was already headed for my bathroom, his favourite blue pyjamas with silver stars on them in his hands. Had he stopped by his apartment before coming over? Peculiar.

 >> next chapter

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[sayruq]

In January of 2024, Dr. Bara Zuhaili entered Gaza on a two-week medical mission with a U.S.-based organization, Rahma Worldwide. Dr. Zuhaili dedicated most of his time to Shuhada' Al-Aqsa Hospital in Deir Al-Balah, central Gaza. While this was not his first experience in a wartime or crisis setting — he had undertaken medical missions in Syria and was in southern Turkey during the earthquake — it proved to be his most horrific. As a vascular surgeon, he was tasked with assisting Gazan doctors in one of the ugliest tasks of this war: amputations. A generation of amputees has emerged, with over 10 children losing one or more limbs per day, on average, since the beginning of the war. Dr. Ghassan Abu-Sittah called it “the biggest cohort of pediatric amputees in history.” Even this statistic, reported by UNICEF in December of 2023, is now outdated. The true number of men, women, and child amputees remains unknown, with estimates ranging upwards of 10,000 people. It is a number that will continue to rise as new and unknown weapons destroy tissue and bone, crumbling medical infrastructures and scarce supplies force constant life-and-death decisions, while infections and chronic illnesses — largely ignored — silently kill or handicap thousands.

Is this the first time you've worked in a war zone or in a humanitarian crisis? Did any of them prepare you for this? It was not the first time. Unfortunately, I had experience in Syria, working in the underground hospitals in the besieged areas of Aleppo and Idlib. There, the healthcare facilities were also under constant attack by the Syrian regime. But Gaza was unlike anything I had seen before. To start, the supply chain was completely broken. Supplies were extremely limited in Deir Al Balah, where I was based for most of my stay. The hospital functioned at only 5-10% capacity compared to any similar hospital in the Middle East—I'm not even talking about an American hospital. Then, there were the number of patients. Just to give you an idea: Shuhada' Al-Aqsa Hospital in Deir Al Balah is only equipped for 150 patients. Under extreme circumstances, they could maybe stretch to accommodate up to 200 patients. When I arrived, there were 950 patients, in addition to over 20,000 refugees sleeping in the corridors of the hospital and its complex. Every time we experienced a bombardment, we had anywhere from 20 to 60 patients rushing in simultaneously, in addition to the patients already being treated. It was completely overwhelming and overcrowded. The third issue had to do with the type of injuries. I've seen a lot of trauma before — traumatic injuries are not new to me — but the level of trauma I saw was something I've never witnessed in my entire life. When I was in the operating room, I would get a call from the ER saying someone was shot in the leg and they needed me as soon as possible. In my mind, someone shot in the leg with a bullet would have an entry size of about five to six millimeters and an exit wound size of about two centimeters long. That is what I was familiar with. What I saw in Gaza — which I had never seen before — was literally as if an explosion, an RPG, had exploded into the leg. The entry wound would be about five to 10 centimeters wide and the exit wound would be almost 30 centimeters wide. One bullet would destroy a diameter of 10-15 centimeters… all of the muscle, bone, arteries, and nerves were all gone, destroyed.I'm not a military expert, I don't know much about weapons. But I don't know what kind of bullet can cause that much destruction. With a bullet wound in the U.S., I could get away with doing a bypass to salvage the leg. In Gaza, there was nothing anyone could do to salvage the leg. The amount of tissue damage forced me to do amputations almost every single time. 

Can you describe what a single day would look like? As a rule, anytime a bombardment happened, we would wait between four to eight hours before we received any injured people. In Deir Al-Balah, we would see the missile hitting two to three kilometers away and we knew that there were many casualties, but it would take these people — who were only three kilometers away from us — four to eight hours to reach our location. The IOF (Israeli Occupation Forces) prevented any ambulances from entering the scene, and anyone attempting to help or approach would be shot. I had many cases where the ambulance driver would come to me holding two or three kids. They were dead, and he would swear to me they were alive four hours ago. We lost a lot of lives just waiting to reach us in the hospital. Our days typically began around seven in the morning, and even though the night was filled with attacks and bombardments, no casualties would reach us before the morning. By then, we would go to the ER and try to start the triage process: determining who needs to go to the OR first and who could afford to wait. We would then perform surgeries throughout the day, often not finishing until one or two in the morning. Sometimes, if I had time, I would do my rounds to check on the patients, and by late afternoon, we would have more bombardments and injuries coming in until midnight. Usually, by midnight, things slowed down… not because there was no bombardment, but because they couldn't reach us anymore.

[jamneuromain]

Ari's Payback

Mob!Ari Levinson x Reader

Warning: Mob!Ari, Wife!Reader, Ari being petty, a lot of cursing

Summary: As your husband, Ari did what he does best: annoy you.

A/N: Happens right after this event. Part of Venomous Vows series in collaboration with @biteofcherry

Ari cursed silently in his mind.

There was an intense debate going on about whether or not he should do this.

The brain cell of stupidity argued: Do it. Let’s give her hell.

The sane part of his brain said: Let’s just kill her instead.

Okay. Maybe he shouldn’t leave both his brain cells wandering in his mind after a few too many glasses of scotch.

Plus, killing her meant that he could only enjoy the look on your face once. While initiating the plan, on the other hand …

He reached for the box, and snatched the object inside with ease.

A part of him grew curious as to why his wife did not wire her stuff.

Then, at the back of his head, a slurred, drunken voice of his own reminded him that it was his home. It was your home. It was your shared home.

Ari watches as you rummage through the house, ask the maid (he forgets her name once again, Charlotte or Shari or Shar-something) to help you rummage through the house. A while later, the valet is commandeered. Then your chauffeur.

Together, the four of you search every inch of your bedroom, your bathroom, your walk-in wardrobe, and your second walk-in wardrobe with handbags.

He pulls out his phone to take a look at the time.

Ten minutes to eight pm.

He could imagine the guests murmuring, glass clicking, heels clattering, air thickening with his men huffing out cigarette smoke.

He could imagine the guests glancing at their wristwatches – having received a pat-down at the entrance and removed all electronic devices such as their phones like taking some friggin’ SATs – and getting all disturbed, wondering if they should bolt or would FBI come surrounding this goddamn place as this could very well be the largest mob family gathering along the east coast.

Yet, he muses, they should grow accustomed to your tardiness, as there hardly were times when you weren’t late for this annual gathering since your marriage.

He finds a box of cigars in one of the drawers of the coffee table and a box of matches to go with it. He lights the cigar and enjoys the rich spicy odor of it, feeling particularly like a club owner from the 1920s, watching in the dark as the mime continues in front of him.

Well, not a mime-mime, but a –

“It can’t be just gone.” You snap at no one in particular, though it is clear as day that you are not in a good mood, while the helps you’ve summoned keep their lips shut.

Ari allows a small whiff of cigar smoke drift from the corner of his lips.

Poor them. But it’s not like you are going to bite their heads off.

“Charlene, please check my jewelry box again. Marco, my coats. George, my handbags.” You grit your teeth tightly, “It’s a necklace with a ring of pearls and a fuckin’ big-ass pink diamond in the middle. It can’t be gone.”

And it is lying in the deepest darkest corner of his safe in the study. The pleasant bitter taste of the cigar filled his lungs, ghosting Ari’s face with a faint smirk. He takes time to pour himself a glass of scotch, knowing that this fiasco will last forever since he was the thief who wants payback for your last not-so-peaceful encounter when you decided to sabotage his online meeting with the loudest porn.

“I’m sorry, Ma’am. It’s not in the jewelry box.” Charlene exits your bedroom a couple of minutes later, apologizing even if it was not remotely her fault.

“Sorry, Ma’am.” Ari’s valet, Marco shakes his head and refuses to meet his eyes with yours after coming back to the living room.

“Sorry, Ma’am.” Your driver George echoes.

You stand in the middle of your living room, hands resting above your hips, full make-up and properly dressed, with a beautiful strapless on you, and on your neck – nothing, nada.

Ari savors his scotch with his eyes closed.

First of all, in his defense, you look beautiful in anything, even a rag. Despite his hatred towards you, he is not blind. And you certainly do not need one specific necklace to bring it out in you.

Second of all, that necklace was a gift from a man before your marriage. A man who is not Ari Levinson (nor your father, for that matter). A childhood friend, to be exact. Ari has always suspected you felt a thing towards that man. Luckily, that man was off to some adventure in a godforsaken jungle in the middle of nowhere.

Ari prays that the friend of yours dies there. He could send a team of armed mercs to annihilate his opponent, but he chose not to. Ari Levinson is not a complete monster, just fyi.

Last of all, it was so worth it, making you mad.

“Fucking stupid goddamn pearls I swear-” You ignore Ari being all suited up on the couch, heading to your bedroom to check under the bed again, cursing under your breath.

The soles of your heels click on the floor hard enough to poke a hole in it.

“Fuck fuck fuckity fuck FUCK!”

He hears you lash out your fury into the soft beddings. He hears your anger pent up with no one and nowhere to aim at. He hears you curse louder.

Ari puffs the silvery smoke into the air.

See? The brain cell of stupidity tells him. Totally worth it.

[hot-claws-420]

To Suffer Without Dying...

[I... WAS ABLE TO PRESERVE {SLAG KITTY}'S MISSION RECORDING FROM BEFORE MY CASKET WAS {EJECTED}. WHAT FOLLOWED... I MANAGED TO COBBLE TOGETHER FROM SECURITY FOOTAGE. IT IS NOT A PLEASANT THING THAT HAS HAPPENED, BUT IT MUST BE {KNOWN}.}

...<beginning video/audio playback>

...<uploading sensory input data>

[The viewer stares through SLAG KITTY's eyes, charging through lush vegetation, colossal treeline blocking view of the city. But blood. The scent of blood is heavy. So heavy...]

Achaea City Jaeger Dispatch: All Jaegers reinforce the western gate! Kaiju swarm the incomplete walls! All Jaegers reinforce! THEY CANNOT ENTER THE CITY. REPEAT: HOLD THE LINE. THEY CANNOT ENTER ACHAEA.

[Heavier still are the paws that slam themselves into the dirt, throwing the body of the mech forward with all the force they can muster. SLAG KITTY bounds back from its patrol with deadly speed, firing off its displacer into the trees every time its reactor begins to cool to maintain its rocket-like propulsion on all fours.]

[On comms, Sunny and XIII-E exchange chatter over the health of the pilot, monitoring every change, every heartbeat.]

[SLAG KITTY breaks the treeline. Before even the walls come into view, a beast does. An Achaen hound. The same species that the Jaegers scattered on their initial deployment here. Same as the ones that menaced Argos and company's scout ship some two weeks prior.]

[It is recognizable in the first second it is visible, and a piece of it is gone the next. A blink of heat from Lion's Breath and the lithe, reptilian creature screeches in mourning of the loss of a leg. SINGED answers its cry. The lesser beasts of Prospero don't speak Union Standard, but Luckily, SINGED is bilingual.]

SINGED: rrrrrAAAAAAAAAGGHAAAAAAAAAAAHHH!!!!!

[When the mech's paws reach the four-eyed kaiju, they pull from its middle outwards. Its scream only lasts for the second the bifurcation does. As two slabs of meat are torn to either side the apex rockets ever forward, as if throwing herself full force through the world's wettest screen door.]

Sunny: [KILL CONFIRMED, {PILOT}.]

[The walls enter view as the enkidu exits the other side of the creature. As do other size schedule one kaiju. In thin numbers they scatter as hyenas before a lion. Some, across the wide field, flee back into the treeline at the sight. But one. One slinks around a corner of the walls. SINGED pursues.]

[Its medics' discussions amongst themselves are something that the monster tunes to only partially in its focused, blood-raged state. It hears their voices and takes comfort from them, but unless addressed directly, a loyal hunting beast needs not understand every word from its loving vets. When directly addressed, though, this changes.]

XIII-E: Callsign: SINGED WHISKERS, the shortest route to the western gate is in the other direction. Getting distracted?

[Their voice is a gentle poke. A friendly tug in another direction. The beast explains itself, slowing pursuit but not stopping.]

SINGED: grrrrr... wheres its pack? prey hunts in packs... weird! chase!

XIII-E: That is unusual. Sunny?

SUNNY: [INFORMING HANDLER... REQUESTING AUTHORIZATION TO DIVERT... AUTHORIZATION RECEIVED. WE TRUST MY PILOT'S {INSTINCTS}.]

XIII-E: Go get 'em, tiger!

[With permission and encouragement, SLAG KITTY bolts forward with renewed vigor.]

[The cheetah was the fastest animal to share Cradle with humanity. It lacked the retractable claws of other cats, allowing it extra traction while running at the expense of dulling its claws against the ground. An enkidu's plasma talons do not run the risk of dulling. SLAG KITTY's speed is terrifying for a mech of that size.]

[The lone Achaean hound maintains distance only just. Exactly as SINGED planned. It leads her just where she hoped it would. Its pack.]

[An incomplete section of the east wall is ripped and torn through, a hole in Achaea's defenses for predators to slip past while the bulk of the Jaegers fight in front. Clearly, the hounds are smarter than Eschaton could have known.]

[The scent in the air is heavy with blood and oil. Mechs and infantry are splayed out in a gruesome gallery; the rear guard left on this section of wall was eviscerated before they could call for reinforcements.]

Sunny: [THIS IS {BAD}. INFORMING {COMMAND}.]

[Sally's mind becomes a battleground for a century that takes place within a second. The bodies, the blood, the half eaten human beings. Her comrades. So many corpses... Fury and hate fuel her. Vengeance. She HAS to have VENGEANCE. But. Fear. Not fear of these weakling kaiju. Of her own goodness. Her programing fights against her. Agoge orders in the back of her mind, "Stop. Caring. Close your heart and fight." As quickly as the hesitation arrived it is burned away. The agony and the fire and the blood of these people... it smothers Agoge. It suffocates her training, crushes it beneath love and hate and righteous agony.]

[The faces of the dead look to her in what feels like a final plea. She obliges.]

SINGED: grrrRrr... Raaghh... RAAAAAAAAAAAAGGHHHHH!!!!!!!!

[A mad and baleful rocket, it sprints after the lesser beast, now reunited with its pack. One city block is as far as they have gotten inside, but it's far enough for the lion to hear the screams. Pleading. Begging. Crying. Not soldiers this time.]

[The fury burns her eyes so badly that hot tears sear lines down her cheeks. She watches a man scream and squeal for his poor, tiny life as a maw gingerly lifts him by a bleeding arm. No. She won't allow this. No one. Nothing. Gets to do this on HER watch. RIGHT IN FRONT OF HER.]

SINGED: AAAAAAAAAAAAHGGGHGHHH!!!! RAAAAAAAAAGH!!!!

[The man drops to the ground and scrambles back as the greater monster digs its fingers into the jaws of the lesser, wrenching them open wide, freeing his arm. The smaller beast, the almost-killer, squirms and growls and writhes as the larger doesn't stop at just opening the maw. It bends. Then Breaks. Then tears. No one ever said an enkidu could only bifurcate on one axis.]

[SINGED lunges still forward, and by now the pack has taken notice. Their head pull upward from their terrified meals, and the ones already made corpses. Four quartets of eyes burn their gazes through SLAG KITTY, shrieks and yips and growls following them as they climb from ruined structures and homes to circle this new threat. The pilot needn't even ask her NHP to release the next stimpack. It giggles madly as it is fueled for combat.]

[Pack hunters know to coordinate against a larger foe. They snarl and gnash their fangs, waiting for openings. Blind spots. But it's difficult for them to get close enough. SINGED's burning claws spark with violet hate. Any beast that gets too close has its scales torn and burned, shredded in molten death.]

[One takes a false opening. SINGED feints a miss, then lets it in just close enough before really bringing its claw down. Dazed by the talons, it doesn't expect a second weapon, either. The plasma blade prototype crafted by Delta tears itself from SLAG KITTY's right wrist and sears into the creature's neck. SINGED drives it through cleanly, and its prey dies quickly.]

[Not quite quickly enough, however. As the corpse drops, its remaining companions all pounce at once. She's just quick enough to swat back one with her talons, but the other two descend to either shoulder. Through the neural link, it feels its prey's teeth and claws dig into the steel of its frame. Weak.

SINGED: SUNNY. COOL.

SUNNY: [STABILIZING REACTOR. STANDBY.]

[Vents open and steam spurts from every orifice, every crack in the frame, a hateful mist. In the time it takes, the third monster has circled around to latch onto the leg of the frame with its jaws.]

[SLAG KITTY's surface is shredded to the point of exposed servos. The damaged caused as one of her external batteries is ripped from her back leads the rest to detonate.]

SINGED: GRAAAAAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!! AHAHAHAHA!!!!

[Heat, ozone, and blood suffocate the battlefield. An awful buzzing blares from somewhere on the frame, but that can't stop it. SINGED pushes the two shoulder mounted beasts away just far enough. A wave of heat courses through the frame once more, producing a blinding flash as a gigantic crater is formed just in front of it. Lion's Breath is aimed so that the two beasts on her shoulders are partially within the sphere, displaced.]

[Missing its back half, one hound slides from SLAG KITTY's shoulder, instantly made a corpse. The other, missing an entire haunch, squeals and screeches in an attempt to limp away. The plasma blade catches it on exit, bringing it a blazing end.]

[The final kaiju releases SINGED's leg in its own attempt to flee, only to be tripped by a burning, whip-like talon. With a yip, it is dragged back by its tail and into the range of the huntress' mighty jaws. Razor-blade teeth and runoff displacer heat lock around the back of the creature's neck. A brief scream, a wet crunch, and the final enemy is limp on the ground.]

[Shifting to its bipedal stance, the enkidu begins venting its heat once more.}

SINGED: huff. huff. HrrRRRAAAAAAAAAAAAGGGGGHHH!!!!!!!

SUNNY: [WELL DONE, {PILOT}. DID YOU HEAR OUR ORDERS?]

[Sally shakes off the the bliss of Sunny's praising tone. She lets the serotonin wash over her. She has been a good monster, but the situation is still urgent.]

SINGED: Guh- MISSION!!! ORDERS??

XIII-E: Reinforcements are inbound. You are to hold the position until they arrive, and block the breach if at all tenable. Home stretch!

SINGED: right. right! got it! back 2 hole!!

[SLAG KITTY moves on two legs back towards the breach. Heart still pumping, SINGED does manage to take in her surroundings, the fate of those around her. So many dead... but she watches injured people that medics can just barely save huddle in the rubble, and those uninjured around them either flee the scene screaming or drag the hurt further from the conflict. Her breath catches in her throat.]

SINGED: S-Safe... I kept them safe?

XIII-E: You did, Sally. You should be proud.

SINGED: i am! !! i sav-

AGOGE: Is that truly what you believe to be your purpose, SPS-8?

[The monster shakes off a chill as the voice travels down its spine. Through its mind, like a bullet.]

SINGED: SHUT UP!! I PUSHED U OUT OF MY HEAD ALREADY GO AWAY GO AWAY GO-

SUNNY: [PILOT... PILOT, THAT IS {NOT IN YOUR HEAD}.]

[The NHP's voice is distorted, digitized in fear. Code twisted by dread.]

SUNNY: [P-PILOT HEART RATE {INCREASING}...]

XIII-E: Is that...

SUNNY: [{IT IS...}]

[It comes into view down a dusty alleyway as SLAG KITTY's head turns. A Gilgamesh frame. Cosmetics like any other, unremarkable. But it's old, weathered. A Gil replaces its parts as quickly as bullets on the battlefield, but this is a mech that appears to squeeze every ounce of usefulness out of every part. Scratches old and new coat the thing like paint. On its back hangs a standard GMS shotgun. But in its hands, it twirls a spear-like weapon of strange make. The striking edge at the end of the pole is laced down the shaft with hard-cables of some kind, and a tank of something counterweights the butt end. The frame taps this tank twice to the ground in a challenge.]

AGOGE: SPS-8... Two years, five months, 6 days, and you've already forgotten your lessons. How sad. I expected better. Though, I suppose you have always needed a firm hand.

SINGED: DIE!!!!!

[Not just fury, but raw desperation retches from Sally as Lion's Breath fires without a moment of hesitation. Unfortunately for her, Agoge does not hesitate either.]

[The Gil flies forward, undeterred by the momentary vacuum the displacer forms behind it. Just as swiftly is the spearhead alight. The superthermal blade sparks to a full charge and rends through SLAG KITTY's torso. Heat distortion follows every flick of the blade through the air.]

SUNNY: [{REACTOR CRITICAL, WE'RE EXPO-]

[Sunny's terror is drowned out by the roar and spray of hell's own fire as a gout of flame bathes the enkidu. A krakatoa's solar flare of a tongue explodes from the spear as the gilgamesh takes a single step back, launching then two fuel rods from its reactor, behind which an explosion of flame and soot from the frame's vents follow.]

[The combined onslaught sends SLAG KITTY careening into the street, much of its form melted down into its namesake.]

...<critical structural damage. lion's breath systems no longer operational.>

SUNNY: [MY PILOT. {ARMAMENT REDUNDANCY} IS NOT ACTIVATING. WHAT HAS HAPPENED?]

SINGED: grRRAAAGH!!! I REPLACED IT. HAD 2!!!

SUNNY: [WITH WHAT, PILOT? WITH {WHAT}?]

[The fear. The desperation in both of their voices shrieks through the air at the same pitch as the nozzle hosing flame upon their chassis.]

...<emergency protocol halted. access code required.>

SINGED: ACCESS CODE: SOMETHING WICKED!!!

...<access granted.>

SUNNY: [PILOT, NO. WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?]

SINGED: WHAT I KNEW ID HAV 2!!! RAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGHGH!!!!!

[The click of the stims injecting hushes the very world. The medics' comms are silent in horror. Even Agoge stands, for a moment, without saying a word. SINGED does not scream again. Nor does she roar. Breaths: quiet, but labored. The only sound in the world.]

[Eventually, it's joined by a single, shaky exhale from a dear friend who's stars away. What does the monster see? When its world turns to blood? When driven by desperation to dip into madness itself? Its friend may never know. All they can do is try to be heard.]

XIII-E: Sally, I'm still here. We can talk about this later. You trusted me to take care of you through this, and I'm going to.

[It still doesn't make a sound as it throws itself from the ground onto the woman who raised it. It couldn't do so no matter how much it wanted. And so, a silent terror reaches for Agoge and clamps its jaws into her. Every remaining tooth and claw at SINGED's disposal is brought to bear with reckless abandon. The older pilot endures, beaten back a step by each blow, mechanical repair arms desperately replacing parts as they become mangled and useless. All the while, the monster's eerie breath haunts the battlefield.]

[The medics, for their part, scramble to maintain its vitals. Between the two of them, they do much the same work as Agoge's repair modules; the various chemicals needed to keep this baneful creature upright are their equivalent to replacement parts.]

[Eventually, with a grunt and one final step back, Agoge seems to look over her frame.]

AGOGE: Hmm. It has been quite a long time since Soter was last dealt structural damage. It seems you remember something of my teachings, at least.

[She examines the wall of the building beside her.]

AGOGE: Yes... about here.

[When the feral beast leaps at her once again, she deftly sidesteps. With precise timing she unloads her shotgun and its explosive shells toss the larger frame through the wall. A chorus of screams floods the battlefield as war spills into a place of refuge.]

AGOGE: Now, if you're done with your tantrum, try and listen.

[SLAG KITTY's cameras drink in the faces of a dozen terrified civilians, hiding in this structure to avoid the carnage.]

AGOGE: You've grown weak in your care, SPS-8. However, those stims you just took... They're a downright cunt to try to gather data on, but I know who gave them to you at least; I have an idea of what you just did to yourself. So, I'm curious. What do you see right now? Are they mewling cubs? Or juicy gazelles, fat and slow?

[Among the civilians is a man holding a red bundle tightly to his chest. His eyes dart between the two frames, the rest of him frozen in place.]

SINGED: huff. huff.

[What does the monster feel when aimed towards those it wishes to protect? Does it know why its eyes sting and burn? Does it know that tears mix with the blood forming rivers along its cheeks?]

[SLAG KITTY stands, slowly and carefully. All twelve humans watch as the monster looms over them. As a fellow human stands not far off, egging it on.]

SINGED: huff. huff.

[What does the monster hear? When two voices scream out? Are they begging or ordering? Does it know those voices?]

SINGED: huff. huff.

[Yes... Yes, it must. Somewhere locked deep within, the monster thinks there might be a person? It's hard to say. But the voices are familiar. It doesn't know if it remembers love, but it thinks it might.]

SINGED: huff. huff.

[The cracking is quiet at first, then deafening. The roof's collapse forces a decision out of the monster, and it throws itself over the people. Concrete and rubble crash upon SLAG KITTY's back as it shields the screaming little humans from being crushed.]

AGOGE: I see...

[The civilians scatter when the dust settles. Too afraid of Agoge to exit, they climb the rubble to higher ground, huddling atop the ruins. Agoge ignores them. As the final person flees from under the enkidu, she takes a step into the building.]

AGOGE: I hope it was worth it, because you've left yourself open.

[The east half of the building's load-bearing-enkidu is in no position to dodge or brace. Agoge's spear plunges cleanly into the space she knows holds the beast's reactor. She holds it there, charging the superthermal. And charging it. And charging it.]

[The first thing to go is Delta's prototype. As the device is heated far beyond nominal levels, the arm that houses it detonates. SLAG KITTY struggles with only a shoulder to hold the weight. Agoge continues.]

[When arcs of plasma begin oozing and spurting from every crack in the machine, she knows her work is done. The shotgun sends the enkidu through a final wall, and that side of the building collapses between them.]

...<warning. reactor meltdown imminent.>

SUNNY: [NO. NONONONONO. {PILOT}, WE MUST {EJECT}.]

SINGED: huff. huff.

[The beast attempts to lumber to its feet. Energy burns through it as if it holds the sun in its chest. Each remaining plasma talon begins to detonate. One by one they pop in horrid, metallic screeches, spitting with them flares of plasma.]

SUNNY: [PILOT, {PLEASE}. {YOU} AND I WILL BOTH DIE.]

SINGED: huff. huff.

[Against all hope the beast struggles, finally raising itself from the ground. But it can barely move now as its internals become replaced more and more with ash and slag.]

SUNNY: [I'LL DO IT MYSELF. {PLEASE}. SURVIVE HER FOR ME SOMEHOW. {PLEASE}.]

...<engaging ejection protocols one and two>

SUNNY: [{AAAAA-]

[Her scream is cut short as two projectiles are launched from the chassis. The first is Sunny's casket, crashing through the window of a nearby window and grinding to a halt in a pile of shattered glass. The second is the small form of the mech's pilot, which tucks, rolls, and skids to a stop on its back some distance away in the street.]

...<warning. reactor meltdown imm->

[The footage cuts abruptly to a nearby street cam with a clear view of SLAG KITTY's detonation. The chassis that carried SINGED and Sunny for their entire piloting career, the monstrous form the little mauler had come to know as its second body, is atomized in a nuclear demolition. The camera refocuses on the pilot, which begins struggling to its feet, now without contact to its medics.]

[The boots of the larger pilot's mobility hardsuit crash onto asphalt with force that one could almost mistake for a half sized mech. SINGED manages to roll just in time to avoid being crushed, and kicks up to its feet. It begins circling its mentor as might a cougar. Its eyes are bloodshot, scarlet pinpricks. Blood drips from every orifice of its face. Not that it notices.]

[Agoge circles with her, cold, dark eyes sizing up the small creature. The monster would have to have a second SINGED sit on its shoulders to reach her height. This immense woman draws a saber proportionally massive, and points it as the two slowly move.]

AGOGE: What. Is. That.

[She gestures with the tip of the blade to Sally's mouth, stained in dripping crimson. Then to the girl's arm. Dripping yet more red, its hardsuit is torn, flesh mangled just the same, ripped into by pantheran teeth.]

AGOGE: You did that? To control yourself? To sate your appetite? For what? FOR THEM? For these fools trying to build a home atop a wasps nest? STOP DENYING WHAT I MADE YOU.]

[The hateful claws SINGED forged herself flare to dreadful life. Scarlet and violet flash along her arms and sizzle as she bares them against her mentor's blade. Whatever the blade is made of resists the heat well enough, and the dance is a lightshow, an incomprehensible exchange of swift, violent fury.]

[Dodging and twisting around Agoge's swings, SINGED draws first blood. The older woman grunts as the blaze of claws rips across her shoulder.]

AGOGE: If you're so intent on sacrificing, then fine, I'll take something from you.

[SINGED stares at her. Its eyes carry only incomprehension and killing intent. It lunges again and the exchange continues. At some point in the flurry, the strap holding Sally's sniper to her back is sliced apart and the gun tumbles between their feet. That's the opportunity Agoge takes.]

[She feints a stumble, pretending to trip on the rifle. As SINGED leaps after her, she repeats her earlier sidestep, and her blade sings. An artist of violence paints the street with a single swipe of red.]

[There's a brief moment in which SINGED stares quizzically at the stump that used to sprout into its right arm. But in time with the severed limb landing limply in the road, it brings its remaining hand to the wound. Her claw device begins sputtering as it ceases function, and with its last remaining charge before it expires it uses it to burn the bloody orifice closed.]

[It silently glances between Agoge and the rifle before diving to the ground for it. But its caught by a swift kick, then a stomp which pins it to the ground on its back.]

AGOGE: I didn't want to do this, you know. I want to be proud of you, SPS-8. Why must you make it so difficult?

[The creature beneath her is clearly not listening. It struggles and squirms and gnashes its fangs. All while its eyes remain trained in the direction of the people it left in the building. It only moves its head from that direction in attempts to clamp its jaws around any part of Agoge. The clacking of those teeth is audible even from the street cam.]

AGOGE: All this struggling, all this crying for these people. And what has it gotten you? Only the right to suffer without dying.

[Its breaths have long since become animal-like. Not furious roars, but guttural little breaths which become quiet snarls halfway through. It reaches out for the rifle. So close, so close.]

[The boot presses down harder.]

AGOGE: I was so ready to be impressed when you started talking to the project clone. That's resourceful, I thought. But then you got attached. You always get so atta- AAGH!

[In the distraction of her monologue, Agoge allows just an inch too much room for her former ward to move. The fangs sink deep past the hardsuit. Deep enough, just barely, to meet bone.]

AGOGE: Little bi-

[She dives to the side as SINGED slings the rifle forward. But a bullet doesn't streak towards her.]

[The camera switches to a wider street-view, revealing a previously unseen Achaean hound having slipped through the breach. It had been stalking slowly towards the civilians in the building, only to now find a sniper's bullet through one of its four eyes. It wails in fury and dashes towards its assailant.]

AGOGE: Sarissa.

SARISSA: Ma'am.

[The gilgamesh descends upon the hound as it did SLAG KITTY, this time without Agoge inside. For her part, Agoge kicks the rifle from SINGED's hands as it attempts to switch targets, encumbered from having to rest it upon its knee without a second arm. Now, though, a smirk tugs at the corners of the elder's mouth.]

AGOGE: Heh. You know what? I'll give you that. No mech, one arm, and my boot pressed to your chest, but you're still snapping and clawing. Even if you can't seem to get it through your useless little fucking brain that you're fighting for nothing... Fighting for nothing with such tenacity is still just impressive enough.

[SINGED crawls towards the rifle. A boot connects to its face with a loud thud.]

AGOGE: Fine then. One last chance. You've earned that much. Prove me wrong. Show me that these people give you strength. But know this. It really is the last one. From here on out, every time you disappoint me, someone you love will die.

SARISSA: Ma'am. Hostiles incoming.

[No sooner than Agoge's flight suit fires her away from a a barely moving Sally and back into the cockpit of Soter, a terrible roar hoses plasma upon the frame. The reinforcements SINGED was promised.]

AGOGE: AAUGH. ...ah, the rough draft.

[The perspective shifts to a camera that can view the new arrival. GOJIRA's mouth is a gateway to hell, and Soter takes its full brunt. Agoge extends her left arm forward, blocking as much of the sunburst as possible from the more important sections of her mech. She trudges forward, that arm slowly melting into slag as she closes in.]

[She swings the melted arm backward and the the spear forward, repair module replacing the limb as the other rends a melted hole through GOJIRA.]

[She's carried backwards by a comet before she can follow up. Another frame, a Cataphract, enters the fray. A lance is driven through her shoulder. Her feet drag and spark against the street as she's forced back, tearing asphalt along her path away from Slagwell.]

VOLK: Ma'am. I'm gonna have to ask you to unhand my pilots and get the fuck out of town before this gets even uglier.

AGOGE: And you must be the handler I've heard so much about. It's good to see that someone of passing competence, at least, holds my daughter's current leash.

[The fuel rod detonates with explosive force, carrying Volk away with a trail of smoke. A shotgun shell finds his chest, doubling the distance.]

AGOGE: I was just leaving, anyway. Do make sure those stims don't kill her. Sarissa?

SARISSA: Ma'am.

[In a blink, the gilgamesh launches itself backwards, towards the breech. GOJIRA bounds forward in pursuit, but Volk's cataphract blocks Slaggy's path with an arm.]

VOLK: She could have reinforcements to cover her escape outside. You're already on tender hooks from the battle out front. Let her go, kid.

[GOJIRA roars in fury after the retreating frame, but Slagwell halts at their handler's behest.]

VOLK: This is handler Volk speaking. Medical team needed for several civies and a fallen Jaeger.

[The street cam swivels one last time to Sally. The broken girl now lays unmoving, face down in the street, bloodied and maimed.]

SINGED: huff. huff.

...<playback complete>

[yourmomsawh0r3]

AMBER ALERT

pairing: no apocalypse joel miller x f! wife reader

summary: While on their weekly date night, Joel and Y/N Miller become heroes when they intercept an Amber Alert, risking everything to rescue a kidnapped girl.

Friday night was supposed to be sacred a weekly tradition where Joel and Y/N Miller left their chaotic world behind and spent uninterrupted time together. Joel made a point to keep these nights for his wife, knowing she deserved more than the endless string of workweeks and responsibilities they juggled. They were halfway to their favorite steakhouse, the truck humming along the highway, windows down to let in the crisp evening air.

Y/N had her bare feet tucked under her, scrolling through her phone while Joel tapped his fingers on the steering wheel in time with the country song playing on the radio. The easy rhythm of the drive was comforting, the kind of routine Joel craved after years of chaos.

“You wanna bet the steak’s gonna be overcooked again?” Y/N teased, glancing over at him with a mischievous smile.

Joel chuckled. “They only mess up when you order it. Maybe you oughta stick to chicken this time.”

“Chicken at a steakhouse? Blasphemy,” she quipped, her grin widening.

Joel shook his head with a soft laugh, the corners of his mouth lifting in that way that always melted her heart.

Then her phone buzzed.

“What’s that?” Joel asked, glancing her way.

“Amber Alert,” she replied, her voice growing serious. She tapped on the notification, her brow furrowing as she read it aloud. “Missing child, six-year-old girl. Blonde hair, pink hoodie. Last seen in a gray SUV, Texas plates 8JKL237.”

Joel’s grip on the steering wheel tightened. “Poor kid,” he muttered.

Y/N’s eyes drifted back to the road, and her breath caught. “Joel,” she whispered, her tone urgent.

“What?”

“That’s it. That’s the SUV,” she said, pointing to the vehicle directly in front of them.

Joel’s gaze snapped forward. The gray SUV’s license plate matched exactly. His jaw clenched, and his pulse quickened. “You sure?”

“I’m sure,” she said, her voice steady despite the fear creeping in.

Joel’s hand instinctively dropped to his side, his fingers brushing over the gun holstered at his hip. “Call it in,” he said firmly.

Y/N quickly dialed 911. “Yes, we’re on Highway 29 heading east. We’re behind a gray SUV that matches the Amber Alert description license plate 8JKL237. The driver’s a middle-aged man, no sign of the child yet.”

She hung up after relaying their location. “They’re sending units, but they said to stay safe and keep an eye on them.”

Joel nodded, his focus sharp. “Alright. We’ll tail him, but if this turns south, you stay in the truck, understand?”

“Joel—”

“I mean it, Y/N,” he said, his voice low and commanding. “I ain’t lettin’ anything happen to you.”

The SUV suddenly took an exit, veering off the highway toward a desolate gas station. Joel followed, parking discreetly at the edge of the lot.

“He’s stopping,” Y/N whispered, her heart pounding.

“Good,” Joel said, his voice grim. He scanned the lot, taking in the flickering neon lights and the empty expanse of desert surrounding them.

“What do we do?” Y/N asked, her hands gripping the edge of her seat.

Joel unbuckled his seatbelt and turned to her. “Stay here. I’ll handle it.”

But as the driver stepped out of the SUV and walked toward the gas station, Y/N’s eyes caught a flicker of movement through the tinted back window. A small figure: blonde hair, pink hoodie.

“Joel,” she said urgently, reaching for his arm. “She’s in there.”

Joel’s jaw tightened. “Alright. You stay put.”

“Joel, I can’t just sit here—”

“Y/N.” He cupped her face with his calloused hand, his brown eyes locking onto hers. “You’ve got a good heart, darlin’. Just don’t go stoppin’ mine, alright? Stay here.”

She nodded reluctantly, her chest tight with worry as she watched him step out of the truck. Joel’s hand rested on the grip of his gun as he approached the SUV, his every movement deliberate.

Inside the gas station, the man glanced out the window, his eyes narrowing as he spotted Joel circling his vehicle. The tension crackled like a live wire.

Joel reached the SUV and tried the back door. Locked. He leaned down, his voice calm but firm as he addressed the little girl inside. “Hey there, sweetheart. You alright?”

The girl looked at him with wide, tearful eyes but didn’t speak.

Joel’s stomach churned. He straightened and glanced toward the gas station, just as the man stepped outside, his expression darkening when he saw Joel near the SUV.

“Something I can help you with?” the man called out, his tone laced with hostility.

Joel turned slowly, his hand resting on his belt. “Just admirin’ your ride,” he said smoothly, his Texas drawl masking the tension in his voice.

The man’s eyes flicked to the truck where Y/N sat, her phone in hand. He frowned, his body language shifting into something defensive and dangerous.

Joel stepped closer. “Funny thing. Looks like you match a vehicle on an Amber Alert.”

The man’s face hardened, and in a flash, he lunged toward the SUV.

“Hey!” Joel shouted, drawing his gun. “Step away from the car!”

The man froze, his hands twitching at his sides. “You got no right—”

“I said step away,” Joel barked, his voice like steel.

Before Joel could react further, the man bolted, sprinting toward a nearby alley.

“Joel!” Y/N called, jumping out of the truck despite his earlier warning.

Joel cursed under his breath. “Stay with the girl!” he ordered, taking off after the man.

Y/N hurried to the SUV, fumbling with the lock until she managed to open the door. The little girl flung herself into Y/N’s arms, sobbing.

The sharp crack of the gunshot split the air like a thunderclap, echoing off the gas station walls and reverberating in Joel’s chest. It was a sound so sudden, so violent, that it froze him in place for a split second until he saw Y/N jerk backward, her body twisting unnaturally before she collapsed to the ground.

“Y/N!” Joel’s roar tore through the air

He was by her side in an instant, his hands reaching for her as she writhed in pain, clutching her shoulder where the blood was already pooling. Her cries were hoarse, sharp gasps for air, the agony on her face a mirror of his own fear.

“Baby, no! Y/N, stay with me!” Joel’s voice broke through the terror, and his hands shook as he tried to steady her. The world around him blurred, the only thing he could focus on was the sight of her struggling to stay conscious, the blood soaking through her clothes, staining his hands as he frantically pressed against the wound.

Her eyes were wide with pain, but there was a look of pure terror in them too, a look that broke Joel’s heart into pieces. She gasped, her hand weakly gripping his, her voice barely a whisper through gritted teeth.

“It… it hurts, Joel,” she sobbed, her breath hitching with each word.

“Shh, don’t talk, baby, please don’t talk,” Joel urged, tears brimming in his eyes as he fought to keep his composure, trying to stop the blood that was pouring from her. “You’re gonna be fine, you hear me? You’re gonna be fine!”

But even as he spoke the words, the terror clawed at him, tightening its grip on his chest. She was slipping away in his arms. And he couldn’t lose her. Not like this. Not now.

“Y/N, stay with me,” Joel begged, his voice thick with fear as he pressed his hands against her wound, trying to stem the bleeding. Her face was pale, her breaths ragged. The little girl they’d rescued was crying, clinging to Y/N’s free arm while Joel tried to keep it together.

“Joel,” Y/N whimpered, her voice strained. “I’m sorry… I just wanted to—”

“Shh, don’t talk like that,” Joel said firmly, his throat tight. “You did good, sweetheart. You’re gonna be fine, you hear me? Just hang on.”

The wail of sirens grew louder, and Joel’s sharp gaze darted toward the arriving police cars. Officers stormed the scene, quickly apprehending the man who had fired the shot. But Joel didn’t care about him. All he cared about was the woman in his arms, his entire world bleeding out onto the cold pavement.

When the paramedics arrived, Joel refused to leave her side. “I’m comin’ with her,” he demanded, his voice leaving no room for argument as they loaded Y/N into the ambulance.

She cried out in pain when they adjusted her on the stretcher, and Joel’s heart shattered at the sound. He climbed in beside her, gripping her hand tightly as they sped toward the hospital.

“Joel,” she whimpered, her eyes glistening with tears.

“I’m here, darlin’. I’m right here,” he assured her, his voice trembling. “You’re gonna be okay. Just keep your eyes on me.”

Her breathing hitched, her grip on his hand weak but desperate. “It hurts so bad,” she sobbed.

“I know, baby, I know,” Joel said, his voice cracking. He leaned closer, his lips brushing her forehead. “But you’re the strongest person I know. You can do this. You gotta do this for me, for the girls.”

At the mention of their daughters, Y/N’s lips quivered, and a fresh wave of tears fell down her cheeks. Joel swallowed hard, fighting the urge to break down. He couldn’t lose her not her.

The hospital was a blur of bright lights and frantic voices. Joel stayed by Y/N’s side as long as he could, barking at anyone who tried to pull him away. But when they wheeled her into surgery, he was forced to let go.

“Save her,” he growled at the surgeon, his eyes blazing with desperation. “You save her.”

In the sterile waiting room, Joel paced like a caged animal, his hands shaking as he called his mom.

“Mom,” he choked out when she answered. “I need you to bring the girls to the hospital. Y/N, she’s hurt real bad. She’s… she’s in surgery.”

“Oh, Joel,” his mom said, her voice thick with worry. “We’ll be there as soon as we can.”

When the line disconnected, Joel sank into a chair, his head in his hands. He couldn’t stop replaying the moment she collapsed, her blood staining his hands, her voice crying out his name.

Time crawled by until the surgeon emerged. Joel shot to his feet, his heart in his throat.

“She’s stable for now,” the doctor said, holding up a hand to calm him. “But removing the bullet caused a lot of pain, and there was some significant blood loss. She’ll need to be monitored closely, but she’s strong. She fought hard.”

Joel’s knees nearly buckled with relief. “Can I see her?”

The doctor nodded. “She’s in recovery. She’s been asking for you.”

Joel didn’t waste a second. He practically ran to her room, his boots echoing in the sterile hallway.

When he stepped inside, the sight of Y/N lying in the hospital bed hit him like a punch to the gut. Her face was pale, her arm bandaged, and tears streaked her cheeks.

“Joel,” she whispered when she saw him, her voice trembling.

He crossed the room in three strides, sinking into the chair beside her and taking her hand in his. “I’m here, darlin’. I’m here.”

Her fingers clutched his like a lifeline. “It hurt so bad, Joel,” she sobbed.

“I know, baby,” he said softly, his free hand brushing the hair from her face. “You scared the hell outta me, you know that?”

“I didn’t mean to,” she said, her voice breaking.

Joel’s throat tightened as he leaned down, pressing his forehead against hers. “I know you didn’t. You were tryin’ to protect that little girl. You got a good heart, sweetheart. Just don’t go stoppin’ mine, alright?”

A watery laugh escaped her, and Joel smiled faintly, though his eyes were still misty.

The door opened, and their daughters rushed in, their little faces filled with worry.

“Mommy!” the youngest cried, climbing onto the bed to hug her.

Joel scooped up their other daughter, holding her tightly as he kissed her head. “Mommy’s okay,” he assured them, his voice steady despite the whirlwind of emotions still raging inside him.

Y/N smiled through her tears, reaching out to hold both girls. Joel sat on the edge of the bed, wrapping his arms around all three of them.

That night, as they sat together in the tiny hospital room, Joel made a silent vow. He would never let anyone or anything hurt his family again. And as Y/N rested her head against his shoulder, her fingers curled around his, he knew he’d do whatever it took to keep that promise.

[neon-kazoo]

A Hero’s Guide on How to Get the Fuck Out of Town

(50% success rate!!)

Chance of survival guaranteed

So you’ve found yourself in a bit of a predicament.

Say, you accidentally caught a glimpse of your nemesis with their mask off. Maybe your nemesis caught you catching a glimpse of them with their mask off. Possibly, they have been chasing you around nonstop since, vowing to end your life the second you slip up and make a mistake. If things are really going bad for you, said villain might be the most well-connected in town with plenty of friends to help hunt you down. One of those friends might even be the mayor.

Just as an example.

Don’t you worry, this guide is here to help save the day by teaching you the foolproof method of how to run the fuck away.

That brings us to our first and most important piece of advice.

Don’t make a mistake.

Seems simple, right?

Yeah, right up until you face plant in the middle of the sidewalk and roll into oncoming traffic during a close foot pursuit.

Hypothetically, of course.

That brings us to our second, and slightly-less-important-but-still-very-relevant piece of advice.

When you do make a mistake, don’t panic.

Calmly rise to your feet and make a timely exit out of the roadway. Freezing in the left hand lane and flailing like a half-dead piece of roadkill won’t make the situation any better. In fact, it will only allow the villain to get closer and greatly increase the risk of an auto accident. You might even lose a finger or two between a tire and the asphalt.

Not that that would ever happen to you specifically, but trust me it could.

But just in case you do end up panicking, all hope is not lost. Here’s what you want to do:

Make the best of it.

Use that flailing to flag down a passing car. Get a phone and call for backup. If you stumble over your words urgently enough, the driver might even let you hitchhike. Or, if worst comes to worst, a simple carjacking might be in order. Just be sure to pay them back later.

Or don’t. Once you’re out of town, you’re going to need to stay out of town. No contact. Can’t let rectification be the reason you are found.

Speaking of being found, you might want to dump that tracker the villain put in your shoe. Throwing it out the window of the car you may-or-may-not have stolen should work.

Now, you may be more or less fingerless, but at least you’ve gained some ground. Try backroads, there’s less cameras for the villain to gain eyes on and less people around to keep an eye on. That is only, however, if you know your way around, which highlights our next point:

Know how to read a map.

Brush up on your Never Eat Soggy Waffles skills, cause you’re gonna need them. GPS can be hacked. A simple brochure map you nicked off a tourist, however, cannot. If you can hold the map right-side-up, you’re on the right track. I cannot advise against driving around in circles enough. Sure, you might confuse your enemy for a second, but ultimately it will get you no where. Literally.

Speaking of directions:

Be random.

North, South, East, or West? If you have a coin, flip it. Preferably more than once, unless your coin has four heads. Don’t head for your vacation home or your best friend’s house. That one town you planned a trip to as a project in elementary school? Absolutely not. Not even your boss’ cousin’s wife’s dog’s breeder’s childhood remote cabin. I mean random. Never heard of it? Perfect. Population of 60, bingo. Population of 10 million, also a winner. Forget logic, forget means. Just don’t be predictable.

Next:

Trust your gut.

If it looks like the gray SUV has been behind you too long, that’s not just paranoia. If you think you’re being followed, you probably are. To lose a tail, you just need to be able to do one thing:

Move like a bat out of hell.

Driving? See that pedal on the right? Step on it. Forget the brakes, red lights, pedestrians, and any signs and drive like you were taught by your blind aunt who secretly wanted you dead. Don’t worry, that thud was probably just an orange cone. Once all you see in the rear view is skid marks and destruction, feel free to lighten up on the gas. Enjoy a slight reprieve before our next tip.

Use cash.

All that running made you hungry, I get it. Your fuel tank is probably running pretty low, too. You’re going to want to stop at the sketchiest gas station you can find. I’m talking open drug deal in the parking lot here. The attendant smoking near the pumps look like they’re straight out of a wanted poster? Perfect. The least amount of questions they ask, the better.

Don’t think this makes you safe, though. Remember:

Stay suspicious.

Clerk being a little too friendly with an awkward laugh and sweat dripping off his brow? Gaze keep darting around and not in the typical high as a kite fashion? You might want to grab your mini m&m’s and run.

Relatedly:

Civilians are not your friends.

Don’t learn this the hard way. It doesn’t matter if you saved their kitten from a tree once, it only takes a wad of cash or the flash of a gun to turn somebody against you. Next thing you know, that very same clerk is pulling out a rifle from behind the counter and pointing it straight at your back. This is where our next piece of advice really pays off.

Be aware of your surroundings.

Does the pharmacy, perhaps, have mirrors angled on the wall that you can use to catch the bolt being pulled back just in time to dodge the bullet whizzing past your head? If it does, excellent. If it doesn’t…well I’d suggest you don’t turn your back on anybody. And watch out for those middle-of-the-aisle displays if you plan on walking backwards all the way out of there. Wouldn’t want to die falling on a heap of beanie babies, would you?

Don’t dilly dally.

Forget dodging, start running. Make your get away swift. Just make sure you pumped your gas first. (And don’t drive off with the nozzle in your tank, that would just be embarrassing.)

Let’s take a moment to discuss unexpected obstacles.

Your number two nemesis, let’s say: the roadblock. So maybe you were a little too loose with the rule about randomness, or maybe your villain has a doctorate in statistics. That doesn’t matter now. Now, it’s fight or flight and, quite frankly, this is not a guide on hand-to-hand combat. I have but one thing to say on the matter:

When in doubt, flee.

Now, this may be covered under no dilly dallying, but I believe it’s worth restating.

Every moment is precious.

It’s all about timely decisions. Two ways to turn and don’t know which one to pick? Allow only a split second to make the decision. A fraction could mean the difference between life and death at an intersection. Channel your inner try-hard and run in a direction like you’re a fifth-grade boy playing tag.

And at that, we finally arrive at one last piece of advice (and I fear this one may be nonnegotiable):

If the villain is waiting for you around the left corner, you might want to go right.

[inanaincarneetinsidus]

Bharani : the birth of Venus.

Part 1

Let's talk about ancient godesses of love and Bharani nakshatra.

I will base my research on the legend of the dead and resurrected god present in many religious myths coming from the middle east (ps : i'm sorry in advance for the grammar, syntax or spelling mistakes that you may find in this post, english is not my first language)

Bharani, situated in the heart of the rashi of aries is governed by Shukr: Venus but also by Yami and Yama in vedic mythology who are twins and gods respectfully of life and death.

Yama, the main deity of Bharani is said to be one of "8 celestial gatekeepers, who guards eight directional doorways or exits through which souls travel from an earthly plane to other planes of existence" making him the lord of Dharma since at one's death, he decides basing on his actions in what plane should one reincarnate.

Since Yama is responsible for directing the flow of life on Earth the association between bharani and the yoni becomes evident: the female reproducting system serves as a portal for souls to take on a physical form. So bharani as Claire Nakti perfectly described it relates to the feminine ability to receive, hold, nurture and ultimately transform through the womb.

Because Bharani aligns itself with all the feminine qualities by excellence it makes sense as to why Venus is it's ruler.

Venus is the roman name for the goddess Aphrodite: in greek mythology. She is said to be the goddess of love and beauty at large but also the goddess of war and sexuality. First because the ancient greeks saw the duality that links love to war and how they seem to come together through sex.

Also, Aphrodite is said to be born from the sperm of Ouranos when his testicules got cut by his son Saturn as he was always feconding Gaia, the Earth and causing her distress: he was acting cruel regarding their children. The sperm of Ouranus got mixed up with the foam of the Ocean creating Aphrodite which means "risen from the foam". So it was interesting to see that as Shukr also means sperm in sanskrit and it shows the origin of Venus as a fertility goddess too.

This conception of Aphrodite directly links her to ancient goddesses of love such as Ishtar or Inana in Mesopotamian/summerian mythology or Isis in egyptian mythology. Most of the time, these goddesses are the female counterpart of a god that was once mortal, got cursed, died and then came back to life for them to form an immortal couple.

In the case of Ishtar, her consort is Dumuzi or Tammuz and Osiris is the consort of Isis.

In Mesopotamian mythology :

Ishtar or Inana in sumerian is the goddess of love and sexuality, beauty, fertility as well as war because of her status as a " bloody goddess" mostly refering to her character in plenty of myths.

For example: in one story, she became infatuated with the king Gilgamesh, but the latter knowing her fierce reputation, refused her advances. As a result she got furious and unleashed the celestial Bull on Earth which resulted in 7 years of plagues. This celestial bull was later defeated by Gilgamesh and Endiku, and its corpse was throwed in front of Inana. Blinded by rage, she decided that as a punition Enkidu must die and sad at the death of his bestfriend Gilgamesh began his journey to find a cure to Death.

Bharani is a fierce or Ugra nakshatra meaning that its nature is agressive, bold and assertive in pursuing their goals. They are ruthless in the process of accompling what they desire the most and are inclined to extreme mood swings that can result in them to be "blinded" by their extreme emotions perfectly expressing the passionate character of Venus and her other equivalents in differents pantheons of antiquity.

Inana/ Ishtar's story with Dumuzi/Tammur begins as she was convinced to chose him by her brother Utu. Then she got married with the shepphard Dumuzi instead of whom she prefered the farmer: Enkinmdou. During the courtship, Inana prefered the fine textile of the farmer and his beer rather than the thick wool and milk of Dumuzi. The preference for the shepphard illustrates that at the time the Mesopotamian civilisation was known for their proliferent agriculture with the egyptians in the region, so this myth encapsulate the opposition between nomads and sendatary people at this specifific time period.

By the way, another symbol of Bharani is the cave and traditionnaly, the cave was used as a storage room for food. Also Bharani's purpose is Artha so these individuals are motivated to accumalate resources and provide safety and security, so Bharani can be linked to the exploitation of natural ressources like the soil illustrating the preference of Ishtar for the farmer. This is reinforced also by its Earth element.

So coming back to the myth, in a mesopotamian text called Inana's Descent to the Underworld, the goddess goes to Kur (hell) with the intent of conquering it, and her sister Ereshkigal who rules the Underworld, kills her. She learns that she can escape if she finds a sacrifice to replace her, in her search, she encounters servants who were mourning her death however she finds Dumuzi relaxing on a throne being entertained by enslaved girls. Enraged by his disloyalty she selects him as a sacrifice and he is dragged to the Underworld by demons.

He is eventually resurrected by Inana and they become an "immortal couple" as he may only come back to life for half of the year, being replaced by his son (?) who is also his reincarnation for the other half of the same years, so describing the cycle of regeneration of life.

Other mythologycal stories of goddesses in the near east describe a similar patterns:

The goddess Asherah is described as being the mother and the lover of her son Adonis.

The goddess Cybele in the phrygian pantheon takes the form of an old woman as she described as the mother of everything and of all. And at the same time she is the consort of Attis who his her own son (wtf ?)

Also, Yama and Yami are implicated in a incestuous entanglement where his sister Yama wanted to lay with him however he refused establishing himself as a god with an infaillible moral campus.

All of these representations illustrate the relation between the masculine and the feminine, life and regenration which are all topics related to Bharani nakshatra. Women by their capacity to give life are seen as the source of life and therefore are eternal as they are able to regenarate themselves through daughters which are identical to them whereas man who is unable to reproduce by himself, is therefore mortal feels the need to associate with her to resurrect through a son who is identical to him. Bharani exiting as the embodiment of the link between "the father and the offspring" which is the feminine vessel.

So this is certainly part 1, I think that these ancient myths are where Claire Nakti found her inspiration for her series on Bharani.

[lavenderhateswritting]

Magneto x male reader

Summary: Eric didn't just lose his hope in Charles' dream on Genosha he lost you too.

Walking toward the doors of Eric's room was a stomach curdling experience. The overwhelming oppulance of Genosha's capital halls only worked to further seperate your mind from the feeling of existing in your body. It would be easier for everyone involved if you disconnected from this experience emotionally if you viewed it as if it were happening to someone else and not you.

You stood outside of Eric's door and rolled your shoulders back. You needed to prepare yourself as if you were going into battle. Finally after dilibiration you knocked on the door.

"Enter." Eric's voice came through the door to you in than regal way he addressed everyone.

Opening the door even more revelead a room that was set up for a king and Eric stood in the middle of the room. He only had his dress pants and button up on. He was going through the motions of getting ready for the banquet. The banquet you had not been invited to.

You stayed on the edge of the door if you walked over the entrance it would be harder to disconnect.

"So, Rogue is going to be your queen." It wasn't a question, both of you knew it was just the truth of the situation you were in the. The sun sets in the East, grass is green, and Rogue was going to be Eric's queen.

His hands stilled from where they had been adjusting his collar.

"She is the best fit for being the ruler of Genosha. An empathetic person who would work to better mutant kind." His back was still turned to you. The light of the setting sun cloaked what parts of his face were facing you in blinding light.

"You know It isn't her I'm upset with." You inhaled and leaned against the threshold of the room. "My love I will create a world where mutants can be free and we can free from the fight that binds us." A smile creeped up your face tight and bitter. "You think I'm an idiot or blind willing to believe any pretty little things you sent my way."

You watched as the muscles in his back tensed up.

"I have never thought you a fool."

A laugh bubbled up from between your lips. "Then why did you lie to me? Why did you make me think you were in love with me?" You breathed in a shaky breath. "Why have you strung me along for so long when you knew you didn't feel the same way?"

His head turned fully toward the open window. You watched as he inhaled as though he was steeling himself for what was next. There was no need for that. You did not intend to scream and make a scene you just wanted some for of the truth from him.

"You of all people must understand that there are some things we must put to the side in order to do what is best for mutant kind." He turned away from the window then and began to walk toward you. "I have been fighting ths fight for many years and I have loved many and lost many more." He was standing in front of you directly now. He reached his hand up and gripped your chin. His thumb began to stroke the curve of your lip as his eyes looked at you as though he could see your very soul. "There are many things that I do that invoke questions, but my ove for you was never one of them." He leaned forward then to kiss you like you had done hundredsof times before.

"Eric, no" You stared back into his eyes as he had yours. He was surprised maybe hurt though he covered those looks up as fast as he could. Not fast enough. Never fast enough to truly hide them from you.

"We, whatever we were is done. I would apologize, but we both know it isn't my fault. Goodbye." His hold on your face was torn away as though it pained him to let go. You turned your back on him and began to walk towards the exit of this maze of luxury.

You hadn't been paying attention when you turned a corner and saw her standing there. Rogue. She was beautiful her hair in a bun with a dress on that allowed for her arms and hands to be free. She looked suprised to see you.

"Oh, I didn't know you'd be around sugar. It's probably good because I reckon we need to talk." You felt tears finally swell in your eyes.

"Rogue love there is nothing that needs to be talked about. Eric is a grown man and he has made his decision. And never in my life could I imagine denying you the abiltiy to be touched and loved because I am a jealous old man."

"Sugar. Thank you."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The air was on fire and it burned your throat with every deep gulping breath you took. The sentinal attack had been out of nowhere and it had brought with it death on a sclae you had never witnessed up close. Running from place to place throwing debris off of civilians with your super strength and trying to find anywhere safe enough to leave them before you dashed off to another area.

All of the running you had been doing had found you in the center of the fight, however, with Rogue, Eric, and Remy. You had been pushing civilians toward Eric for only minutes when the sentinal in the sky had sent a beam crashing from above that had sent its ffot down directly ontop of you and the group of civilians you were protecting. The weight of the leg was nearly enough to make your legs buckle. You watched as Eric came running for you.

"You can't stay here Eric you need to take the civilians and leave." You saw the horror truly grasping in his eyes. A man who can control metal not being able to save you from this of all things.

"Do not make me have to make this choice. Please." You had never once in your life heard Eric beg before. In a way you never really thought he could.

"There is no choice Eric. You of all people should be able to see. I'm not making it out of here." Tears began to fall down your face.

"Go. Make a better world." The ache in your muscles began to become unbareable and you dropped to your knees as the sentinal began to crush you even further.

Eric looked you in your eyes and you saw the grief the anger the fear everything he could never hide from you pulse from his very bones.

"There is no better world without you in it." He had begun to make a shield around the civilians you had saved.

You felt yourself smile up at him. The weght of the sentinal began to truly push down on you the bones in your arms began to crack.

"Don't be ridiculous Eric. There is and there will be. Promise me."

He looked you in the eyes then.

"I promise."

You felt your back finally give out as the force of the sentinal finally crushed you.

[dontfearrr]

thank you to the angel who requested this<3 you can find it here

Request

Feast of Starlight

also this is like BARELY proofread so kindly disregard any horrible spelling mistakes🔥

Pairing: Thranduil x Elf!reader

Summary: Readers childhood best friend had now become of higher status, due to that she hadn’t spoken to him in over two thousand years. However a simple invitation may change that.

Warnings: none

Category: fluff/hurt/comfort

Word count: 3.0k

“you may absolutely not Thranduil!”

She giggled as the young boy just crossed his arms in a whine. “but i will be so very careful, come on!” he insisted in a pitiful beg. She looked at the boy and sighed heavily, he always got his way with her no matter what, he was her best friend. “curse you” she grumbled and picked up the bright red apple, placing it on the top of her head and balancing it until it stayed put. She backed up and stood as still as possible. “you mess this up and i will kill you” she pointed a stern finger at the excited boy as he quickly nocked an arrow, pointing it in her direction. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath, he focused on the apple and the apple only… he opened his eyes and fired immediately. The arrow pierced the apple perfectly in the middle and it landed behind her on the grass. “i told you to just trust me!” Thranduil laughed and placed his hands on his hips proudly.

That was six thousand years ago.

She was woken up from her memory by another elf, she was passed out at her station due to the lack of sleep she had gotten the other night. She lifted her head up with a slight groan and took in her surroundings, finding she was in the seamstress quarters of the east side of Mirkwood, how stupid of her, falling asleep on the job! christ she thought..

Thranduil had been on her mind as of late, why? She didn’t know, It was as if he was haunting her every living thought, which is why she hadn’t got much sleep last night. She’d spent half of the night thinking about him, wishing she could turn back time a couple thousand years and be reunited with the sweet boy she once knew.

However she couldn’t dwell on it, not right now. Elrond was expecting the garment by sundown for The Feast of Starlight tomorrow. She’s been acquainted with the King of Imladris for quite a while due to her very skilled talents with making clothing for elves. He was going to be in Mirkwood by the morning and she was nearly finished with it.

She could’ve been finished with it a while ago if it wasn’t for her stupid..nap.

Nearly two hours later and she was finished with Elronds garment. It was beautifully elegant and she was positive he would be more than pleased. She gathered everything and placed it in the cart to be taken to the royal chambers and cleaned her area up, getting ready to retire to her own chambers.

Before she could exit, she was stopped by a royal guard right outside of the exit. He handed her an envelope without saying a single word and took his leave with a bow of his head. She was heavily confused but held onto the envelope until she reached her chambers to open it.

She placed her bag on the table near her bed and sat down, taking the envelope from under her arm and inspected it. The front had a wax seal with..a royal stamp? How intriguing. She flipped it over and the back read in very neat handwriting:

“A night of starlight”

She raised and eyebrow and shrugged before opening it and pulling out the piece of paper within it, unfolding it to see it was an invitation, to the Feast of Starlight?! That couldn’t be right..until she looked in the bottom right corner, where it read her name, underlined, as if it was being emphasized. She hadn’t been to one of those in..decades. The last one she was invited to was first age, when she was nearly a child. She could only help to wonder why she had been invited considering Thranduil was the only one who issued invitations, no one entered without his knowledge.

She set the invitation down and stared at the floor, wondering what on earth would he be inviting her for. She hadn’t spoke to him since he was crowned King. Maybe this is why he had been on her mind so recently. Her head was filled with many thoughts and possibilities but she chose not to worry her mind, she was invited, and that was it. All she had to do was show up, have a drink, and leave..right?

Thranduil poured himself a hefty glass of wine as he stared out at his private garden, pinching the bridge of his nose in perplexity.

“Ada, you cannot seriously be stressed out by this?” Legolas spoke as he entered the room, feeling his father’s agony from all the way down the hall. He rid himself of his weapons, placing all of them at the table and approached Thranduil, standing by his side. “she will come.” Legolas spoke once more, watching his father’s lip twitch, unsure of what to say.

“Hina, i do not wish to hear your words of wisdom at this time” Thranduil sighed in annoyance while taking a drink of wine, a large one. Legolas raised his eyebrow at his father and shook his head. For a king, he was the most stubborn elf Legolas had ever met in his life. “Very well. Let me know when you are done..dreading.” Legolas wanted to laugh, but he’d only get a piece of his father’s mind. So he held his hands up in playful defense as Thranduil eyed him as if he was some idiot and just sighed again, facing the window as Legolas took his leave.

The next morning she woke up to the sun rudely laying across her eyes watered slightly and she sat up, walking out to the balcony to open the doors and let some fresh air inside to wake herself up. But when she did so, she looked down and saw a dark green box sitting right in front of her feet. It was wrapped with a lighter green bow and the box had beautiful details of gold and red. She picked it up curiously and went back inside to open it. She places the cloth box on her bed and opened it slowly, finding what looked to be a..dress?

She tilted her head and picked up the garment from the box and held it up by the shoulders, watching it fall to the ground from its length. She audibly gasped at the beautiful dress, it was clearly made from the finest fabrics in all of Mirkwood, finer than even the guards. She had only ever used this kind of fabric for royals..

The dress was green and embellished with beautiful designs and elven patterns in gold thread and silver linings. The Neckline was a low v neck, something she wasn’t quite used to but who was she to decline such a garment! The back of the dress mirrored the v neck shape as well and the sleeves were fanned out at the wrist, the elegantly draped down, matching the sharpness of the rest of the dress. She laid it out on her bed and admired it before taking a deep breath to process what was actually happening.

First, he invites her to The Feast of Starlight, then he sends you an outrageously gorgeous dress..She was now as nervous as ever to go to this dinner.

It was now nightfall and she was sitting in front of her mirror, running a comb through her long golden brown hair. She pulled her two pieces out in front of her ears and braided some of it back, then littered a few more throughout due to her very thick hair. She wasn’t sure why she had thicker hair than normal elves but she loved it more than anything. She stood up and stared at the dress she had laid out on her bed and sighed deeply before changing into the elegant garment.

It fit her like a glove, hugging all of her curves and falling down her body like a waterfall. She felt like a princess, maybe even a queen..She wasn’t sure why she deserved this but surely there had to have been a reason. A good one. She hoped anyways. She then picked up her circlet she’d only worn once, feeling it was quite fitting for the event. It was littered in bright diamonds that hung down into her hair beautifully and a golden band that twisted around it. It was quite simple but beautiful nonetheless. Once she had felt she was ready, she looked outside to see the moon nearly cresting and decided it was time to head for the Palace.

“I told you, red doesn’t go with green. I want GOLD. Not red.” Thranduil told the dresser that was helping him with his outfit for the night. He was getting annoyed with them for they didn’t listen what so ever. Finally the dresser came back with a green and gold garment. Not too much gold..perfect. “By Valar..now go make yourself useful somewhere else.” he dismissed the elf and he began to dress himself.

He had purposely matched his own outfit to hers, wanting to be as close as possible to her. It was also something they would do in their childhood years nearly every day. Matching their clothes was something they did for the fun of it, any day they could to show everyone they were best friends. Only this time he doesn’t intend it in a best friend manner.

Thranduil never subjected himself to such childish antics due to his old age and had grown quite cold over the years, however he felt it was necessary, even Legolas suggested it. He hated when his son was right, but if he wanted to speak to her he had to make some kind of impression for just disappearing from her life when he was crowned.

She approached the large arched doors and looked over to one of the guards, who let her in immediately, knowing who she was. She bowed her head in thanks and entered the large Palace and could hear many conversations in the distance, so she followed that.

She walked down a long hall which had her turn right and she ended up in the right area, very clearly. It was a beautiful scene, filled with many beautiful elves and willow trees hung low above the area making the place look breathtaking. The only light came from the extra bright moonlight, the full orb casting white rays upon the feast.

She walked among the elves, some of them even greeting her very kindly. A raven haired elf approached with a tray filled with golden chalices filled with wine, she took one and thanked the elf, taking a small sip. She was delighted to be welcomed so quickly, she even had a couple conversations with some. But she stuck to her mission and sought out Lord Elrond, wanting to greet him especially since you hadn’t seen him in quite a while.

She looked among a bunch of elven heads for that very specific head of dark brown hair. Her eyes scanned the room but instead, was met with a pair of piercing blue eyes she remembered all too well..Her breath hitched in her throat at the sight of the tall elf. His eyes bored into her like she was his prey. She had suddenly felt out of place, she didn’t belong here! She didn’t even belong in this dress..what on earth was she even doing. She sighed and broke her gaze with the King and turned around to leave the dinner, it’s not like anyone would even notice her absence anyways, she was just the seamstress.

She placed her drink down onto a side table and turned around and began to leave, until she felt a hand on her shoulder, a very large hand. She got a whiff of a woodsy, manly scent and turned around, only to be met with the man she couldn’t erase from her mind.

She was bewildered to be stopped by him, it was the last thing she had expected. After an awkward moment of staring at each other, he went to speak.

“Mellon Nin, you look ravishing tonight.”

Thranduil spoke up first, staring down at her with his head tilted down due to her shorter height.

“Thank you, My Lord”

she couldn’t help the blush that covered her pale face and chest. She hadn’t heard Thranduil speak in nearly two thousand years, it was difficult for her to contain herself.

“Please, call me Thranduil. You are no stranger” He said gently, his voice laced with honesty and sympathy. She gave him a slight smile and nodded, letting him know she had acknowledged his request. She took this time to admire him, taking all of him in. He hadn’t really aged much since the last time she saw him but he was definitely older, sharper, and undeniably attractive. But what caught her eye was the overcoat he wore, it precisely matched her dress, the colors, the designs…was it on purpose?

“it’s been quite some time, Thranduil.” She spoke simply, a bit of hurt laced in her words, he may be the King but not in her eyes.

“it has.” he took a large breath through his nose then exhaled before speaking again, “I am pleased that you showed up. I had my doubts you weren’t going to.” He told you truthfully and reached down to take ahold of her hand, his hand dwarfing hers and placing his other hand over it, his thumb gently rubbing over her knuckles. She allowed him to and just looked up into his eyes. Trying to find some sort of emotion behind them, either he was good at hiding it, or he was truly just as cold as you thought.

“I do not know why you invite me, after two thousand years i’d think you have forgotten me.” she gently retracted her hand from his grasp after a moment and clasped them behind her back, her bottom lip quivering slightly. Thranduil faltered at this, his eyes relaxing and looking upon her as if she was a normal elleth. For the first time she actually saw emotion from him, and she was pleased to see this.

“My wrong doings have been heavy on my mind as of late. I am aware it’s been quite some time and i have no right to be putting you in such a position.“ He closed his eyes for a second before fixing his gaze back upon her and exhaling. “I cannot sleep at night knowing what i have done. The thought of you alone keeps me up, and i cannot bare it any longer.”

This made her heart ache for the man in front of her and she went to speak but couldn’t find any words. She let his words simmer first, playing them back in her head as she stared down at her feet. Finally she lifted her head and found Thranduil waiting patiently for a reply, the look of agony painted his face. He was truly in pain for what he had done to you.

“Oh Thranduil..” was all she could muster up and she placed a hand on his forearm, gently rubbing it. “I cannot blame you for doing such. I can only imagine the kind of things that were passed along to you when you were crowned. There is no need for apologies” she told him, giving his arm a small but noticeable reassuring squeeze. “you were never my king..” she then moved her hand to his cheek, gently caressing his porcelain skin, he sighed this time but in relief and endearment, leaning into her soft touch as if he had been yearning for it.

“and you were never just a seamstress..” he returned, making her smile slightly. He brings his hand up to place over hers that occupied his cheek. He took hers in his and placed a feather light kiss to her palm before placing it back to his cheek, closing his eyes to bask in her presence. “It’s always been you Thranduil. From the day i met you all the way until now. No matter what happened, you kept me going.” Her hand slid from his cheek to his chest, resting in the center of his broad chest.

“you are far too fair to be a simple seamstress, i curse myself every day i breathe this air for doing such a thing to you. You should be next to me on the throne, meleth nin..” This made her nearly tear up but she stayed strong, taking a large breath and stepping closer to him.

“Throne or not. I belong by your side, that’s how it always should’ve been.” She told him with sweet, gentle eyes. Making him drop the king act and wrap his arms around her completely and hold her close to him, his chin resting on the top of her head.

It was nearly a cursed sight to see the King doing such a thing, but he did not care because anyone who would like to voice a concern would be seeing the inside of a cell for the rest of their existence.

She buried herself into his chest, squeezing her eyes shut allowing a tear to fall. His hand pet down her hair, the delicate elleth in his arms once again. He felt like he’d just received the greatest gem of all middle earth. “It appears i have broken the King” she chuckled a bit, her words muffled by his chest and she could feel the vibration of his laugh as he did so.

She pulled from him and looked up at him with glossy eyes. He wiped her tears from her cheek with his thumb and gently fixed her stray hairs he’d messed up and bend a finger under her chin.

“I’ll never leave you again, you have my word.” He told her as his thumb ran over her bottom lip tenderly. Her lips curled up into a soft smile, earning a smile from him as well, which was a rare sight to see.

This would be the day known as the first woman to make The King smile.

[its-in-the-woods]

Hi! I am Krys, 30s, they/them, pansexual, I am from the great white north eh! Minors are very much not welcome. Please exit or block.

I primarily write fanfic, I am down with any ship but I won't write every ship. Listen to variety of music and watch a variety of TV show/movies.

MCU Below

part 1

Walton Goggins and co below

Find me here for AO3

*Last update Jan 7/2025

Lifes Too Short (complete)

Pairing: Cooper Howard/ The Ghoul x Lucy Maclean (Fallout tv show)

Rated: Mature - Canon typical violence and smut

Synopsis: Weeks of wandering the desert brings Lucy and the Ghoul closer. Takes place after the last episode for fallout tv show

Chapters one, two, three, four, five, six

Down The Rabbit Hole (wip)

Pairing: Walton Goggins x you (AU) (both are single)

Rating Mature: Romance, fluff, older man/younger women, eventual smut (read all tags in chapters)

Synopsis: Working as a Make-up Artist in film is hard enough. But when the lead actor, Walton Goggins, ask you to be his artist. It's easy to slip down the rabbit hole.,

Chapters one , two , three , four, five, six, seven ,eight , nine, Ten, Eleven, twelve , thirteen , fourteen , fifteen , sixteen, seventeen , eighteen here, nineteen here , twenty here , twenty-one here, twenty- two here <-new

The Woman Who Couldn't Die

Synopsis: Set a few years before Dom Pedro gets a hold of the Ghoul. The Ghoul is traveling back from the east coast, doing side quests for chems, after saving a girl from closet. She becomes an unlikely companion, that softens the Ghoul’s hardshell.

One , Two , Three, Four , Five, Six , Seven, Eight , Nine , Ten, Eleven , Twelve , Thirteen , fourteen , Fifteen , Sixteen, Seventeen, Eighteen <-new

An old farm set on a couple hundred acres of land, surrounded by forest and wildlands. Lucy Maclean is now the new owner of her childhood home, much to her family’s dismay and anger. The land doesn’t feel the same without her Granddaddy around, the woods seem darker and much vaster. Maybe it’s the fact that she’s alone in the middle of nowhere for the first time in her life. Her great uncle Harris has stepped up to help her learn the ropes of the business, which is bigger than Lucy ever imagined. Her neighbor Cooper Howard, is happy to meet a new face in the area. Bonding over their shared grief and strife to make ends meet as the world is changing. Their worlds are shaken when Lucy’s home is vandalized, and secrets that were supposed to be buried forever begin to emerge from the woods. Horror, mystery, and drama all rolled into one. There is something in the woods.

One, Two, Three , Four Five, Six, Seven, Eight, Nine , Ten , Eleven , Twelve, Thirteen, Fourteen <- COMPLETE

Knife's edge ~ co-written by @dichromaniac

Pairing: Boyd Crowder/Raylan Givens, Ava Crowder/Boyd Crowder

Warnings?: Dinking/alcohol, knife kink, Blood/injury, hand job, blow job, alternative universe, Hurt/Comfort, Infidelity, Canon Divergence, Closeted,

Summary: Boyd punctuates his statement with the gun, bruising Raylan's torso with the thrusts of the weapon. “You're the same angry young man who left, only difference is you ain't so young anymore.”

Part 1 *~* Part 2

One-shot-wonders

Smokey Music walton x you

***

Short Stories

Smoke and shadows -> horror

Random poetry, very personal often deals w mental health

Empty houses

Crave

[f3mme-f4tale]

☾ bound by bloodshed ☾

part three

⇠ part two - part four ⇢ word count: 6.2k potential warnings: needles, stitches, sexual content (mdni pls!), brief sub!ellie, mild odaxelagnia, explicit language, praise kink, cunnalingus (r recieving), fingering (r & e recieving) pairing: seattle!ellie x female reader ☾ mood board authors note: the middle section is a flashback that takes place right before part one, which is indicated by italics. also, i don't really write smut so pls keep that in mind lmao. also this dynamic is literally i don't smoke by mitski

FREE FREE PALESTINE!

It’s a few hours later when the sun is deep below the horizon and you’re just under fifty miles east of Jackson. You’ve made residence for the night inside what appears to be remnants of an office building. Ellie tries to stay still as you unwrap the bandage, keeping her jaw clenched tight. She focuses on taking deep and even breaths, and she finds it painful whenever you apply pressure and tug on the wound.

She does her best not to make a fuss, but you can see her wincing in pain and fighting to stay still as you treat her. A bead of sweat falls down her forehead, and her skin is flushed. You know she's not having the best time right now, but she's just trying to get through it.

A sewing needle is mocking Ellie from its place on the table, your hands fumbling through your supplies for any sign of thread. Finally victorious, you use your teeth to cut the material, tongue wetting the end to make it easier to work through the needle. 

"Ellie, have some water" you lecture, dumping the remaining alcohol from earlier over her arm, which causes the girl to hiss at the pain. "No use in me fixing you up if you're going to die from dehydration." Ellie shakes her head, despite the thirst that fills her throat. She's trying to be as strong as possible, not wanting to let you see how much discomfort she's in right now.

"I can keep going without water," she says, her face flushed a little bit. "It's alright." But Ellie isn't actually as sure of this as she makes it sound. She knows she probably should drink some water, but she doesn't want to admit it.

"God, you're so irritating sometimes" you mumble, grabbing your own container of water and forcing it into her hands. Ellie snickers slightly at your comment, the first little smile escaping her lips in the entire day.

She takes the water and takes a sip of it, feeling the cold, refreshing fluid slide down her throat. Ellie lets out a deep sigh of relief and takes another sip. "Thank you," she says quietly. You can tell that she really appreciates it, but she also doesn't want you to know just how exhausted and tired she's feeling.

"’Course," you smile at her. Ellie smiles back, though it barely reaches her eyes. You're just patrol partners, she reminds herself. She's not allowed to have feelings for you. And yet, she can't help but feel something. She keeps drinking from the water, not letting go of it yet. Just a few more sips, she promises herself.

You’re clueless to the sight above you, fingers working diligently to make the process go by as smoothly as possible. You push the edge of the needle deep into Ellie’s arm, skin ripping and exiting from the other side. The yellow spongy tissue is speckled with pink, pulling as you attempt to knot the thread. 

Ellie watches as your eyes stay focused, the way you hold yourself as you line the tip of the needle to the edge of the opening of the wound. The sight of you – hands covered in her blood and knees between her legs – has her so turned on that she has to dig her nails into her palm, fingers turning white at the pressure. “Am I making you feel sick?” She prods, pushing your leg with her knee.

You scoff at her, using some of your water to attempt to clean off the blood that has stained your fingertips, shaking your head at her insinuation. Admitally, you’re attracted to broken people. 

“Wanna see something?” Ellie asks sheepishly, avoiding your gaze as you wipe your hands on your pants, handing her a clean bandage to place on her arm. You rarely see her like this, your interest immediately piqued. 

“Uh, sure? As long as you’re not planning on flashing me or something,” you jest, shoving your shoulder against hers. She doesn’t respond to this, instead throwing her bag in her lap and dumping out its contents. 

Curious, you lean in closer, your eyes widening as you realize what she's holding – a Walkman. It's a relic from a bygone era, something that of course Ellie would have. "Where’d you get that?" you ask, unable to hide your surprise. Ellie's grin widens, a hint of pride in her expression. 

"I had it when I was living in the Boston QZ, before Joel and I came out here," she explains. "It broke a few years ago and finally, after some tinkering, I managed to get it working again." She slides a tape in, presses a button, and the familiar click of the cassette tape being engaged fills the air. A moment later, the tinny sound of music pours forth from the worn headphones, the melody faint.

Soft acoustic guitar chords accompanied with a man’s voice enters your ear and you realize you almost forgot what music sounded like. You immediately sigh at the welcomed calm that overtakes you. 

"Do you mind if I just rest for a few minutes?" she asks, sounding a little exhausted. "I know we have to move soon, but just for a few minutes so I can..."

"We got the whole night here, Els," you whisper, taking the walkman from her. She smiles softly as she leans her head against your shoulder, finding herself comfortable in your presence. She glances at you, noting the weariness in your eyes but also the kindness and empathy in your expression.

Despite all this, she can't help but take notice of how close you two are right now. Her head resting on your shoulder. Her body pressed up against yours. Just friends just friends she chants, but she can't deny how comfortable she feels with you right now.

She closes her eyes, attempting to let sleep wash over her slowly. Your heart aches for her. This closeness is something you’ve ached for these past few weeks. You have to remind yourself that she doesn't want you, no matter how much you long for her. "Oh, Ellie,” you mumble, just above a whisper.

"Hmm?" Ellie hums, her eyes still closed.

She's half-asleep now, and the weariness is slowly creeping up on her. But she can hear your voice so faintly, and she wants to listen. She adjusts her position slightly, wanting to lean against you completely. She can't deny it – being this close to you is addicting.

"What is it?" she asks quietly. "Did you say something?"

"O-oh, no sorry. Just um, thinking is all," you sigh. "Go back to sleep." Her headache is starting to get worse again. But she doesn't seem to care much. She can't stay awake much longer. She tries to ignore her fatigue and discomfort and leans into you further, wanting only to rest, just for a few minutes.

Her eyes are shut tightly, but she hopes to hear you again before she falls asleep. Without even thinking about it, she curls herself onto you and wraps her arm around you.

You lean your head against hers, clutching the water bottle in your hands. Your eyes wander over to the door, suddenly aware of the fact that just anyone can barge in. You force myself to stay awake – despite the pain. You have to protect her. As Ellie sleeps, you can feel the pain in your side worsen. 

You can feel her heartbeat through her chest, and you are both so close that you can feel her breathing on your face. You let her engulf you, afraid that you’ll never experience this closeness again. Your eyes suddenly feel very heavy, and it was no use; not when the exhaustion and the warmth of Ellie were so convincing.

⭒⭒⭒⭒

The echoes of multiple string instruments echoed throughout the hall, a few folding tables lining one end of the large room. Orange fluorescent bulbs were string to the rafters, the quaint scent of roasted meat and the soft humming of the generators making your chest swell. 

Pew bunches have been pushed to the back and against the wall, allowing for a group of townsfolk to congregate in the middle and dance along to the folk music playing from the speakers. You’re humming along to Little Sadie by Crooked Still as you watch Dina maneuver across the dance floor with another gentleman, who she is clearly showing off in an attempt to garner attention from her ex-boyfriend – to which you roll your eyes at. You make a bet with Ellie that they’ll be back together in two weeks, as you both laugh at Jesse’s failed attempts to not drool at the sight of her. 

So when Dina makes her way towards the three of you, you’re caught off guard when she takes Ellie’s glass of whiskey and downs it, proceeding to pull the woman towards the middle of the room. As you hear Ellie call Dina a dick in response to her mocking the man, you feel a twinge of jealousy in your gut. You’re aware of Ellie’s obvious crush on her best friend, as is half of the town, Joel included. Yet, that doesn’t help the gnawing bitterness that forces its way up your spine and through your fingertips. 

"Looks like Dina's pulling out all the stops tonight," Jesse remarks, a hint of amusement in his voice.

"Yeah, she's really laying it on thick," you reply, trying to sound nonchalant. You force a smile in response, but inside, your heart feels heavy. You've known Ellie for years, and though you've never admitted it aloud, you've harbored feelings for her that run deeper than friendship. But seeing her gaze fixed on Dina, the way her eyes light up when they're together, it's a painful reminder that you may never be more than just a friend to her. You can't shake the feeling of being left out, of watching from the sidelines as Ellie's attention is drawn elsewhere. 

Jesse nudged you, breaking your reverie. "Hey, you alright there?" he asked, concern evident in his voice.

You forced another smile, nodding. "Yeah, just enjoying the music," you replied, though the words felt hollow even to your own ears.

But Jesse knew you well enough to see through the facade. He gave you a sympathetic look before turning his attention back to the dance floor. "You know, sometimes it's okay to admit when things aren't okay," he said softly.

His words struck a chord within you, and you couldn't help but feel a surge of gratitude for his understanding. "Thanks, Jesse," you murmured, appreciating his silent support. Despite this, loneliness blankets you, wrapping you in. 

You find yourself retreating into the background, music and laughter of the evening fading into the distance as you wallow in your self-pity. And then, unexpectedly, Ellie breaks away from Dina and makes her way over to where you're standing, her expression soft with concern.

"Hey," she says softly, reaching out to touch your arm. "Are you okay?"

You force a smile, though it feels brittle and fragile. "Yeah, just... lost in thought," you reply, unable to meet her gaze. But Ellie isn't fooled by your facade. She studies you for a moment, her eyes searching yours for answers. And then, with a sigh, she takes a step closer, closing the distance between you. She nudges your shoulder with her own, raising her own glass in salut and you both take a sip.

“‘M just feeling sorry for myself and whatnot,” you mutter, awkwardly switching the weight on your feet. 

Ellie's expression softens, a flicker of understanding crossing her features. "I get it," she says quietly. "But you can't keep wallowing in self-pity."

Her words hit you like a slap in the face, the sting of truth cutting through the haze of your emotions. "Easy for you to say," you shoot back, your tone sharper than intended. "You're the one who's always the center of attention, while the rest of us are left picking up the pieces."

Ellie's brows furrow in surprise at your outburst, her expression shifting from concern to frustration. "I'm just trying to help," she retorts, her voice tinged with annoyance. "But if you'd rather stew in your own misery, be my guest."

The words hang heavy in the air between you, tension crackling like lightning. You both know that this argument runs deeper than just tonight's events; it's the culmination of years of pent-up frustration and unspoken resentment.

"I don't need your help," you seethe, the bitterness in your voice palpable. "I've been fine on my own this whole time. I don't need you or anyone else telling me what to do."

Ellie's features harden, the hurt flashing in her eyes like a spark igniting a fire. "Fine," she snaps back, her voice sharp with anger. "If that's how you want it, then maybe you're right. Maybe you don't need me at all."

The words hit you like a dagger to the heart, the realization of what you've said sinking in like a heavy weight. But before you can apologize, Ellie turns on her heel and storms away, leaving you standing alone in the midst of the chaos. You can feel eyes on you, a few townspeople whispering to each other. You fold in on yourself, slouching your shoulders and hands death-gripping your glass. 

And as the echoes of the argument fade into the distance, you're left with nothing but the bitter taste of regret, knowing that you've let your anger drive away the one person who's always been there for you, the night before you’re both assigned to be on patrol together.

⭒⭒⭒⭒

The two of you sleep beside each other comfortably in the ruined building, not a care in the world, at least for the moment. It's a few hours later when you blink away the sleep, eyes adjusting to the darkness of the room. You find yourself stirring awake in the early hours of the morning. Your body is stiff from sitting so still all night, and you can feel the effects of the injury on your side.

You can feel Ellie sleeping next to you, warm and cozy. She's got her arm wrapped around you, her head nuzzled against your shoulder. Silently, you scold yourself for falling asleep. You see the light of the early morning beginning to shine through the broken window of the building and feel a strange comfort in knowing that the two of you are in safety together with the sun slowly peering in.

As you carefully unwrap yourself from Ellie, you make sure not to wake her. You silently exit the room and find a closet down the hall. It's picked through – crumbs from the last residents. A half empty bottle of gin sits on one of the shelves, practically calling your name. "Eh, it's 5 o'clock somewhere," you joke to yourself. 

The sound of a door opening quickly penetrates Ellie's consciousness. She stirs away and sits up in the darkness of the room, her eyes still closed. Her head is pounding. She can feel the exhaustion and pain coming back now.

Her voice is still soft and sleepy when she glances towards the door. "Hello?" she whispers quietly. She can hear you rummaging around in the hallway.

You turn around, not expecting Ellie to be in the doorway. "I’m sorry, I didn't mean to wake you," you defend, holding up the alcohol. "I found a friend." Ellie rubs her eyes, still trying to wake up.

"It's okay," she says. She's resting herself against the frame of the door, the headache coming back in all its glory. "A friend, huh?" She lets out a small, weary chuckle. "Do you mind sharing?" 

You let out a long exhale, still a little drowsy and nod your head. "What time is it? I'm pretty tired still, to be honest." Ellie looks over at you, and you can see she's still half-asleep.

"No clue, almost dawn maybe?" you say, sitting down on a beat up mattress that is pushed against a couch, a large cut in the faux leather cushion exposing the filling. She wobbles over to you and not so gracefully joins you. "Here you go, m’lady," you joke, handing her the bottle of gin. Ellie smiles, snatches the alcohol and takes a small sip.

"I don't think dawn is the right time to be drinking," she says jokingly, before taking another sip. She lets out a long sigh, the alcohol slowly relaxing her muscles and numbing the sharp pains in her head. "That's a lot better," she says softly. She glances at you, trying to hold it together. She knows she's being weak and pathetic, but the exhaustion is getting to her. "I'm so, so tired."

"You don't have to stay awake with me, I'm a big girl. I can drink by myself." Ellie lets out a quick laugh and takes another sip of the alcohol.

"Well, I am thirsty," she teases, smiling.

She glances at you and smiles again, but you can also see the exhaustion setting in. Her eyes are slowly closing, and the room is beginning to spin. Ellie yawns, but manages to stay awake.

"Up to you, princess," you jest, letting your hair down. You take the bottle from her and take a sip, letting the liquid numb the pain. "If you're up to it, we can play a game to pass some time?"

"Oh, a game huh?" Ellie's eyes are half-closed now. She's trying to fight it, but she can feel herself relaxing. “I'm up for it," she says despite a yawn escaping her. You shake your head and roll your eyes, typical. "What kind of game we talking?" She gives you a little wink. 

"Hmm, how about never have I ever?" you ask, taking another sip, frowning when you realize how little alcohol there is left in the bottle. Ellie's eyes sparkle as she lets out a small laugh.

"Really?” she quips, raising her eyebrows as if to say are we thirteen? “Haven't played that in a while," she says, but smiles at you and shrugs. She takes a moment to gather her thoughts and then looks back at you. "Okay, let's play."

You move your body so you’re sitting across from one another on the mattress, bottle of gin in between. "Ok, never have I ever…," you trail off, thinking. "Gone skinny dipping." Ellie's eyes widen when you say this, and she lets out a loud laugh.

"Oh, I definitely have," Ellie replies, almost instantly. "I was, like, sixteen," she says. "Me and my buddies just decided to go for a swim in the lake at night." She takes another sip of the gin and looks you in the eye, smiling curiously.

"My turn, now," she says, trying to change the subject. "Never have I ever ... uh, eaten an entire jar of peanut butter in one sitting."

"Oh, c'mon." You take the bottle and take a swig, practically downing the remaining liquid. "I told you that in confidence,” you sigh, shaking your head. "Ok.. never have I ever.. kissed someone I shouldn't have." As you take a sip of the alcohol, Ellie once again raises an eyebrow at you.

"Someone you shouldn't have, huh?" she asks with a grin. She's not the one to judge, that's for sure. "Can't say I have," she replies with a small smirk. "So, you've got a juicy story behind that, eh?"

"Not really, it's kind of pathetic really. I'm surprised Jesse hasn't told you." you snicker, tucking a piece of hair behind your ear. "I had a crush on him when I was younger, before he and Dina got together, but I knew she liked him. Someone dared me to kiss him – so I did,” you continue, feeling heat rise to your cheeks. “Needless to say, he did not feel the same way." Ellie chuckles quietly as you let out a groan of disappointment.

"Sounds like you were younger and more foolish, if I'm being honest," she teases. "Which... I mean, I really don't think I can talk – I'm not the smartest person, or the wisest." Ellie is not planning on drinking much more, but she's finding the pain in her head a little more bearable now.

"Okay, my turn," she says, and she's already got a good idea of what she wants to ask.

"What's your question?"

"Never have I ever ..." Ellie pauses and glances at you, but you can tell the alcohol has made her a little more bold. "Never have I ever ... uh, slept with a girl before."

You take the bottle from her and finish the dingy bottle of gin, letting her stare at your lips. "Just because we haven’t slept together doesn't mean I haven't had some fun before," you say slyly. Ellie doesn't look away, she just keeps looking at your lips and your face. Something about you just makes her smile, and the alcohol isn't helping.

"Well. What about you? Have you ever slept with a girl before?" You ask, voice jumping down to a whisper. You’re suddenly a lot closer to her than you realize. Ellie doesn't say anything, but you can tell the question makes her flustered even more. She takes a moment to think as she glances towards your lips yet again.

"Yes," she replies quietly, finally. "I have." She looks at you again, but this time, she doesn't look away. She's staring at your eyes, and her face is still a warm shade of pink.

"Really? Was it good?" you ask, voice low. 

"Good?" Ellie replies quietly. “Hmm, you’d like to know wouldn’t you?” she pesters, eyes dropping down back towards your lips.

"Yeah," you reply quietly. "I would." 

"Keep it up and I might just have to kiss you," she says just above a whisper, dangerously close. You’re staring into her eyes, the weight of the world fading away.

Your lips meet in a gentle, tentative kiss, the taste of gin lingering on her tongue. It's a moment filled with a mix of nervousness and desire, a forbidden sweetness that neither of you can resist. As your lips part, Ellie's heart races, her mind buzzing with a million thoughts and emotions.

But then reality crashes down upon her like a wave. Ellie pulls back abruptly, her eyes widening with shock and regret. "I'm sorry," she breathes, her voice barely above a whisper. "I shouldn't have—"

But before she can finish her sentence, you silence her with another kiss, this one more urgent, more passionate. Your hands cup her face gently, your fingers tracing the curve of her jawline as you deepen the kiss.

For a moment, time seems to stand still as you lose yourselves in each other, the world around you two fading into the background. But eventually, you break apart again, breaths coming in ragged gasps as you stare into each other's eyes.

"I'm not sorry," you murmur, your voice filled with a mixture of longing and defiance. "I've been thinking about kissing you since Jackson."

Ellie's heart skips a beat at your words, her chest tightening with emotion. "Me too," she admits, her voice barely more than a whisper.

And in that moment, as you sit there in the dim light of the abandoned building, your hands intertwined and hearts racing, both knowing that nothing will ever be the same again. You may have started as just friends, but now you’ve crossed a line that can never be uncrossed. But for now, you push aside the doubts and fears, allowing yourselves to simply be in each other's arms, cherishing this stolen moment of intimacy and connection. 

Plus, you thought, you’ve been dying to know how soft her lips were. 

“God…” you mumble against her lips. “You taste so..." you begin but are unable to finish as she swallows the rest of your sentence, a flush spreading across your cheeks. And then you’re pulling your face away again, pushing her against the front of the couch and moving to straddle her. Her arms go to hold your waist, a shit-eating grin plastered on her face. You’re taking in the way her hair frames her face and bunches in the back, the strong muscle of her stomach peaking out from under her thin top. 

You can feel her gaze burning into you. "Oh really?" she asks, her voice filled with amusement. She seems to see right through you and it’s almost too much to bear, your body seemingly trembling with lust.

“If you keep looking at me like that, I won’t be able to stop myself,” you manage to breathe. 

Ellie laughs softly, "Maybe I don't want you to stop yourself.” She is practically devouring you with her eyes and you can’t stand it. 

Ellie moves in closer, pushing her knees up slightly and placing a supportive hand on your ass and the other on the small of your back. She smiles softly, "I mean, that is the idea after all," she murmurs against your neck, feeling confident as she slowly makes her way back up.

You weren’t that close of friends anyways.

Your hands are cupping her cheeks, fingers brushing against the freckles that dance across her face. You place a tentative finger on her lower lip, opening her mouth immediately to encase your thumb. She is staring at you from beneath her lashes and you can feel your thighs tighten at this. 

The hand on your ass moves to your thigh, inching closer and closer to where you ached for her touch. Your breath hitched, Ellie smirking with a finger still in her mouth, tongue lapping at the skin. Despite being situated below you, she was in control. With no hesitation, she slid her cool fingers underneath the hem of your shirt. 

Sensing her want, your hands grabbed the edge of your top and pulled it over your head. Ellie noticed how your skin was soft, warm to the touch. An oval gold locket rests between your breasts, ain't it warming you, the world going up in flames? The sheer material covering your chest left little to the imagination, Ellie practically drooling at the sight; no going back now. Unable to keep her eyes off of you, her nimble fingers trace your lower stomach, drawing out a soft whimper from deep inside your abdomen. 

Her fingers graze the skin under your breasts, breath hitching. She bites your fingers softly, which are caressing her face. The action has you involuntarily bucking your hips against hers, egging her on further. You are torn between wanting to run and giving yourself over fully. 

Ellie’s eyes sparkle with sick laughter as she suddenly is picking up the weight of your body to push you down into the mattress and position herself above you, her legs trapped between yours. Her strength and confidence are both evident in the way she holds herself. You can't help but feel a bit of guilt when you stare at her, her body so close and yet so far. She takes in the sight of you below her, the way your hair is spread out beneath you. 

You want to let go, to let all of your inhibitions go as she pulls you deeper and deeper into the heat of the moment. She pauses for a moment as she stares straight at you with those bright green eyes, her expression unreadable. You wish she would press her chest against yours, a hot and hungry mix of skin and sinew. 

You shudder again as her fingers continue their gentle trail, this time trailing downwards from your abdomen. You feel your cheeks heat as a shiver runs through you at the subtle change in her touch. She continues to trace her fingers across the curves of your stomach, her touch still light but teasing. Her fingers come to a halt again just below your stomach, and you feel the familiar tug in your abdomen.

She lowers her head as her weight is supported by her right forearm, which is resting above your head, while your hands get lost in her hair. Her lips leave soft kisses along your neck and down to just above your breasts, her left hand palming your exposed side, fingers dangerously close to your pants. 

She bites your skin, tongue soothing it afterwards. Your hands instinctively tug at her brunette locks, forcing a moan out of the woman above you. She is marking your chest, left hand snaking under your back to find the clasp.

“This ok?” she mumbles, words slurring against the heat of your skin as she is kissing up your neck. You nod eagerly, but Ellie isn’t satisfied. “Use your words, princess.”

“Yes,” you croak out, one of your hands leaving the now tangled mess of her hair to run down the front of her. You help her out of her shirt, pulling her back down by her belt loops, an action that has Ellie soaked. 

You’re smiling as you catch her lips in a passionate kiss, both hands fumbling with the button on her jeans. She’s laughing at your keenness. You didn’t care, you just wanted her. You struggle to slide the tight jeans down her legs, getting increasingly frustrated as Ellie’s hands explore your back. “Fuck,” you complain, pulling away from her mouth, irritated at her stupidly attractive half-undressed thighs. 

She shakes her head at your foolishness, thoroughly enjoying how worked up you’re getting. She sits back so she’s sitting on her heels, pulling your own pants down agonizingly slowly, wanting to drink all of you in. 

She collects your fully discarded jeans and stands to finish taking hers off. A pair of boxers are fitted tightly against her thighs – because of course they are. She’s staring down at you, something animalistic taking over her eyes. You suddenly feel very exposed, dressed in only your undergarments. However, you hold her gaze, not wanting her to realize just how anxious you are. You lean forward on your elbows, chest fully exposed. Ellie’s eyes have become saucers, salivating at the shape of you. 

“Are you going to stand there staring or are you going to fuck me already?” You bite, opening your legs ever so slightly, her gaze dropping down to the space between your thighs. And that’s all it takes for Ellie to drop down to her knees, pull your body forward by your waist, and swing your legs over her shoulders. You’re a bit taken aback by the speed of her actions – I guess she has been with other women. She’s careful to avoid the injury on your side, peppering small kisses around the surrounding area.

She lowers her mouth to the fabric of your underwear, tongue running a stripe between you. You tremble at the gesture, shutting your eyes. 

“Look at me sweetheart,” Ellie says sweetly, voice laced with honey, to which you oblige. “So wet and warm for me, hmm?” She's praising, her voice against your heat sending you into a frenzy. 

Her tongue is back between your thighs and you're bucking your hips up to reach her face, not wanting a barrier between you two. With one hand supporting her weight, she uses the other to push the garment aside, burying her nose deep into you. Her hands are squeezing your hips, her thumbs no doubt leaving bruises. 

Her tongue moved in and out, in and out, in and out as you squeezed your thighs around her head. If you weren’t so pussy drunk, you’d be embarrassed by the sounds of her mouth against your clit. At one point she bit down on your inner thigh, hard. 

You’re squirming underneath her, the sight of her staring at your sopping cunt almost too much to bear. “Ellie,” you’re whimpering, hands back tangled in her hair. With her help, you shimmy out of your underwear, now completely bare. She’s sitting back again, just staring, your doe eyes looking back up at her. 

At this moment, Ellie is ravenous. She is desperately trying to show that she’s in charge, pushing down her word vomit to keep from truly expressing how she’s feeling. She peppers kisses up your legs, right hand teasing your cunt. Without warning, she slides her pointer and middle inside you, a soft gasp escaping your plump lips.

“C’mon,” she coos, free hand rubbing circles into your thigh encouragingly. “Take it for me, baby.” She slides in another long finger, stretching you out even farther. Your eyes water, the pain almost overtaking the pleasure. But then her mouth drops down again and the sight of her mouth against your pelvis almost sends you over the edge.

The sudden urge to kiss her becomes immense, your hands desperately pulling her face up. You can taste yourself on her, tongue invading her mouth. As she continues to pump her fingers, thumb rubbing vicious circles, you pathetically moan into her mouth. This gets her off even more. 

With a hand placed on the small of your back, she shifts your weight so you’re on top again, her back resting against the wall. With you straddling, you ride her fingers, her mouth latched onto your chest. As she guides your hips with one hand, yours goes to wrap around her neck, her hot breath against your throat. As you bounce against her hand, her teeth sink into the soft skin of your shoulders, eliciting a noise from you that could only be described as pitiful. 

“Lemme,” you breathe, your hands fumbling down her body. “Wanna feel you Ellie.” Her name rolling off your fucked out mouth has Ellie nauseous, her heart hammering against her chest. And so, your free hand plunges deep into her boxers, fingers immediately covered in slick. This time she's moaning into your mouth, speeding up her own actions. She shifts her position slightly to give you better access. Your tongues meet, teasing and delighting as the air fills with the scent of each other's breath.

As you ride out your orgasms, Ellie swears she’s been to heaven and back. Your breathing quickens as your bodies press together, swept up in an ocean of heat and desire. She locked eyes with you, searching for some secret, hidden meaning in your haunting gaze. Unencumbered by the expectations of the world, like shadows merging into one, you melted into each other, losing yourselves in the intoxicating embrace of your passion.

⭒⭒⭒⭒

The next morning breaks with a crisp chill in the air, the early light filtering through the foggy windows. As you stir from sleep, you're met with a mixture of emotions; a lingering warmth from the night before intertwined with a sense of unease.

Sitting up, you glance over at Ellie, who's already awake, her expression unreadable as she stares into the distance. There's a tension in the air, palpable and heavy, like a storm brewing on the horizon. Despite the woman being knuckles deep inside you, she can hardly meet your gaze, fidgeting with the straps on her backpack. 

"Morning," you say tentatively, hoping to break the silence that hangs between you. Ellie's response is terse, her gaze flicking briefly in your direction before returning to the task at hand – packing up with brisk efficiency. "Is everything okay?" you ask, unable to ignore the growing knot of anxiety in your stomach.

Ellie's jaw tightens, her hands pausing in their movements for the briefest of moments before resuming their task. "Fine," she replies curtly, her tone sharp. But you can tell it's anything but fine. The tension between you is like a live wire, crackling with unresolved emotion.

"Is this about last night?" you ask quietly, your voice steady despite the turmoil swirling within you. Ellie's shoulders stiffen, her movements becoming more abrupt as she avoids meeting your gaze. "There's nothing to talk about," she retorts, her voice sharp with defensiveness.

You shake your head, frustration bubbling to the surface. "That's not true, Ellie, and you know it," you say, your voice rising slightly with emotion. "We can't just pretend like nothing happened."

Ellie whirls around to face you, her eyes flashing with anger. "What do you want me to say?" she demands, her voice raw with emotion. "That it was a mistake? That I regret it?"

Her words hit you like a punch to the gut, the sting of rejection cutting deep. "No, Ellie, that's not what I want," you reply, your voice barely above a whisper. "I just want to understand what this means – for us, for our relationship." You place a hand on hers, which causes her to freeze. 

Ellie's expression softens, the mask of anger slipping away to reveal a vulnerability you hadn't seen before. "I don't know," she admits, her voice barely more than a whisper. "I've never been good at this kind of thing." And then Ellie pulls her hand away, her eyes flashing with a mix of frustration and fear. "I don't know if I can do this," she confesses, her voice trembling with emotion. "I'm not sure I'm ready for... this."

Your heart sinks at her words, the weight of disappointment settling heavy in your chest. You had hoped that last night had meant something, that it had brought you closer together. But now, faced with Ellie's uncertainty, you can't help but feel a sense of doubt creeping in.

"I understand," you say, forcing a note of acceptance into your voice, even as your heart aches.

taglist: @seraphicsentences @onlinelesbo @yumimak @elliewilliamsblunt

[tyrantisterror]

Is there any dominant religion in Midgaheim, since it's vaguely based off medieval Europe, where Christianity was the binding fabric of society?

Midgaheim's countries are based more on mythologies than they are on the historical reality of Europe, and their religion follows suit.

Germanor is based on Norse mythology, and so the people of Germanor primarily worship the Aesir and the Vanir.

Celpict is based on Celtic mythology, and the people there primarily worship the gods of Celtic myth - Cernunnos, Brighid, the Morrigan, etc.

Ruslovak is based on Slavic mythology, and so people there worship Slavic gods like Perun, Veles, Chernobog, the Zoryas, etc.

Mediterra is based on Greco-Roman mythology, and so worships the Olympians and other Greco-Roman deities.

Castalan, Francane, and Bretonce are sort of the odd ducks out, as they're based less on specific mythologies and more loosely associated folklore traditions of Spain, France, and Britain respectively. Like, think of Bretonce as "the Beowulf/Arthuriana/Robin Hood/Jack and the Beanstalk and related fairy tales" country, Francane as the "Arthuriana/mythologized history of Charlemange/Beauty and the Beast and related fairy tales" country, and Castalan as the "Arthuriana (yes that particular folklore tradition gets around, it's part of Celpict too since so many of the oldest Arthurian stories are clearly derived from Celtic tales)/mythologized tales of El Cid/Basque mythology" country.

Geographically, Castalan, Bretonce, and Francane are also kind of in the middle of the continent, which means they get a lot of travelers and immigrants from the countries to the North, South, East, and West of them. As such, these three countries are sort of a melting pot, religion-wise. You'll find people who worship the Aesir in Bretonce living next to people who worship Celtic gods, and people in Francane who go to a Temple of Veles but say prayers to Hades instead (they're both Underworld gods whose domains include death and wealth, after all).

Castalan, Celpict, Ruslovak, and Mediterra also have sizable populations of people who accidentally immigrated from other continents (i.e. got shipwrecked and washed up on Midgaheim's shores, or wandered into their continent's equivalent of Fairyland and exited on the Midgaheim side). These people bring their religions with them, and so foreign gods like Anubis, Izanami, Quetzalcoatl, Anansi, and even some weirdo called Yaweh aren't completely unheard of in Midgaheim, though they aren't exactly common knowledge either.

The biggest point of difference between Midgaheim's various religions and the real world's is that gods are a prove-able fact in Midgaheim. Olympians have touched down on Earth and walked among mortals enough times that it's well recorded in their histories (and genealogies, thanks to Zeus's infidelity). Witches frequently consult with goddesses of witchcraft like Hecate. If you climb far enough up the trunk of Yggdrasil in the heart of Germanor, you can actually faintly see the glow of Valhalla above you in its boughs. So people don't really feel the need to prove their religion is real, anymore than most people need to prove that dirt exists or water is wet.

Because gods are tied to belief, their territory is always ebbing and flowing with their believers. Different pantheons mostly stay in their respective countries of origin, but they will travel to find believers in foreign lands, even if their power is vastly reduced there. There have been skirmishes between the different sets of gods at times - Ares has notably fought against the Aesir on more than a few occasions while helping the Mediterran army with their many Wars of Conquest - but for the most part the gods respect each others boundaries in way that's almost suspiciously respectful, as if they're all secretly on the same side...

Finally, I should note that even within individual countries, there is variation on how gods are worshiped and perceived. Northern Mediterra, for example, calls the Olympians by different names than Southern Mediterra - in the North, their leader is calls Jupiter, while in the South he's called Zeus, etc. Celpict has a lot of variations on the names of its core pantheon of gods, as does Ruslovak, and even Germanor has a few different takes on their gods.

[eatmeandbirthmeagain]

I got a good idea and I hope you’re okay with this bc u said you didn’t know much about Islam (but don’t worry it wouldn’t be offensive of weird if you wrote this) but imagine this , king Baldwin is secretly in love with a Muslim princess and she gets betrothed to another man , a Muslim one and then he sees her again alone , it could be so much angst

♧ Perhaps In Another Life - King Baldwin x Reader ♧

♧ Angst ♧

A/N: Hello Anon! Thank you for the request. It is a really good idea and I do hope that I don't mess it up due to my lack of knowledge but i'll try my best 😅. As always, this is based on the film Kingdom Of Heaven, not the real historical figures. Enjoy!

PS: I really need to stop writing in clsss, people walk behind my laptop too much. Scares tf outta of me.

TW: Leprosy

She was beautiful. A work of art.

Their eyes only met once or twice, but it was enough to make Baldwin’s heart flutter with nervous exitement and his mask-covered face to flush with a pink tint.

Princess y/n of the Middle East.

Naturally, the king had the opportunity to see her a few times whenever she came to Jerusalem for royal affairs, but he never had the opportunity to speak with her one on one.

This both disappointed and relieved him. She was vastly intelligent and charming, but what he would say to her if they were alone, he had no idea.

In her presence, he was not a king nor a leper, just a young man with a secret crush.

He liked that. He liked not being anything special, just for a bit. Just a few minutes where he could look at her and forget his responsibilities.

Just him and y/n.

But it wasn't just them. It never was, there were always others around.

Others to pull them away. Others to ensure they never spoke more than a few words to each other.

It was on their fourth meeting that Baldwin had decided he was in love with her. Absolutely and undoubtedly in love with her.

The way she spoke, the way she moved, it was hypnotic. Her clothing and jewelry fitted her perfectly. He never once lusted for her like the men around her did, he loved her.

He did not wish to feel her skin. He wished to speak with her, know her, show her the world. Show her love. But he knew this would not be possible.

She was a muslim, he was a christian. Two opposite religions that would never permit marriage between the two.

But still, his feelings continued on for years. He never looked at another woman the way he looked at her, because no other woman was as special or even half as beautiful as she was.

Baldwin was twenty one when he received the letter.

It was a wedding invitation. Her wedding invitation.

His beloved y/n was to be married. She was to be betrothed to another man.

The king allowed the letter to fall from his gloved hands to the desk and a single tear to fall from his eye onto it.

He knew deep down that it was not possible to marry her, but he still held onto hope. Hope that maybe, just maybe, they could at least be alone together to speak once. Just once. But now she would be married and that would become impossible.

The wedding was exactly a week after he received the invitation. Baldwin watched silently from his seat, desperately attempting to not allow his eyes to well with tears.

He never forgot that day and he never forgot her either.

He never married either, he simply could not see another woman the same way he saw her.

Unbeknownst to Baldwin, he was not the only one suffering from the marriage.

Y/n herself had taken a liking to the young king, many years ago.

When their eyes met for the first time.

She saw him before he was forced to wear the mask. His golden blonde hair reflected the sun, making it look like he was wearing a halo.

His bright blue eyes looked at her with kindness and even after the disease forced him to cover his beautiful face, his gorgeous blue eyes still looked at her with the same kindness from behind the iron mask.

But like him, she knew that it was not possible for them to be in love.

However, like him also, she hoped that one day they would have the chance to be together, just for a little bit. But her wedding made sure that would not happen.

She never forgot him either, until one day she was overjoyed with the news that her husband and herself would be traveling to Jerusalem for a few days to meet with the king and his officials.

Baldwin’s disease had progressed significantly and soon he would be stepping down from the throne.

Y/n knew he would die soon, but thinking about it was too painful so she chose to not. Or at least tried.

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

It was late when she and her husband arrived, they were shown to their rooms and told that the first meeting would be the following morning. 

But y/n could not sleep, nor even come close to shutting her eyes.

So she waited until her husband fell asleep and left the room for some fresh air.

She headed outside to the courtyard, taking a seat on a large bench and looking up to the stars.

“Madam?” a rough, yet kind voice called from behind her.

The princess turned to see Baldwin standing behind her.

Moonlight reflected off his iron mask just like how the sun used to reflect off his golden hair.

“Are you alright?” he asked, approaching her slowly.

“Yes, I just could not sleep,” she told him.

This was the first time they had been alone, needless to say they were both nervous but concealed it well.

“Nor could I,” the king replied, taking a seat beside her.

The two sat in silence for a little while, the only sound being the wind through the palm trees and Baldwins struggled breathing.

Y/n’s heart ached for the man for she knew he did not have much time left.

“I dont think we have been properly acquainted before” the young king finally spoke.

“Yes, it is strange. I have known you for so long but we have never had the chance to speak” y/n replied, turning to face him.

Baldwin sighed, “how is your husband?” he asked.

“He is well. How about yourself? Have you found a wife?” the princess asked, silently hoping he said no.

“No. I believe it's far too late for me to find love. To be wed now would be cruel to the poor lady expecting a husband” the reply only made y/n’s heart ache for him more.

This poor soul had never known love and she had plenty of opportunities to show it to him. But because of one small factor she never could.

“I am sorry to hear that Baldwin, truly I am” she placed a hand on his arm gently.

When he turned to her, she saw tears in his eyes. “I have a confession my lady, I need to tell you this before I die, for I can not go another second with this burden on my shoulders”

Y/n nodded, “of course, anything your highness”.

The king inhaled a shaky, struggled breath before he spoke again. “From the moment I laid eyes on you all those years ago y/n, I was in love with you. I have never felt that way about anyone before and that is the true reason I never took a wife, even when I still had at least some of my health. No woman was as perfect as you” he felt a tear run down his cheek behind the mask.

“And when I got news that you were to be wed, I simply could not take it” he turned away from her, not wishing for the princess to see the tears that now flowed freely down his cheeks.

Y/n thought for a moment before speaking.

“Would you believe me if I told you that I have always felt the same?” she reached out a hand, placing it on his masked cheek to make him face at her.

“I always loved you Baldwin. If it was not for our faiths being separate I would have asked my father for your hand in marriage myself if you didn't” y/n gave him a weak smile, looking into his cloudy, once bright blue eyes.

The king tried to speak but he couldn't, all he could do was choke out a muffled sob before y/n wrapped her arms around him.

Her embrace felt just like he imagined it to be, soft and warm. A comfort he had not felt since he was a child.

“I do not fear your illness Baldwin. I have awaited this moment for seven years, allow me to remove the weight from your shoulders before you are acquainted with your lord in heaven”

Her words were perfect. They were exactly what he needed and longed to hear.

“Perhaps in another life, things would have been different” he said quietly, his face buried in her shoulder.

Y/n smiled, “yes, perhaps they would have”.