#also i'm writing lots of fics and i promise to post something soon on ao3

[mountinez]

You did not break me I'm still fighting for peace

Date & Time by Phil Kaye // Rhythms of Rebirth by Christian Bosse // Lisandro Martinez has elevated Manchester United’s defence to a whole new level // Elastic Heart by Sia // Antony of Brazil praises Lisandro Martínez // Don't Forget Who You Are by Miles Kane // Giorgio Chiellini admits he made mistake about Lisandro Martinez // Be Still by The killers

[amusingmusie]

Hi

I'm not going to be updating this week. I'm overwhelmed right now and need a quick break. This isn't a hiatus. The update will be soon, but when I'm ready. I know you guys want an update and I'm flattered people are invested in this, but blowing up my inbox on anon (there are many examples of this I have not responded to because I didn't want to engage with them) isn't going to make me write faster. I work and have a life. If you are that desperate to demand I post a new chapter, you can pay me real US dollars for it. Writing isn't easy, especially when my chapters are landing between 6k-9k words nowadays and I have to edit.

There have also been comments popping up on ao3 complaining about aspects of my fic that are clearly tagged. I get it, it's not everyone's cup of tea. It's got a lot of moving parts, it has other characters besides Al and Reader, I've got an insert with race/gender descriptors (which I would not be using if my fic didn't take place in Jim Crow era NOLA with heavy sexism in the mix, race is a big factor of my story, I chose to explore a mixed race relationship, it will have an actual impact on the plot, I didn't throw it in there because I'm an asshole).

That being said, if I have something specifically tagged and you don't like it, don't click on my work. If you don't like my fic then don't read it. I'm going to begin blocking people at this point. I'm not above criticism. I am above people feeling entitled to complain about something they were warned about then turning it on me.

I'm not saying this for anyone to come kiss my butt, I don't want or need that. I'm only being honest about why I need a few days away. I do this for free and because I enjoy doing this. I shouldn't be crying because I'm so stressed over a fanfic. So, before I fizzle out again, I'm stepping away. I may upload other pieces I've been working on or I may go silent. I've got a Huskerdust piece I'm having a lot of fun with. Either way, I'm gonna do what makes me happy and I'll be back with an update later in the month.

If this sounds like I'm yelling at you, that's not my intention. I am just so tired and done with not saying anything. To the pookers that are very kind and supportive, thank you so much. To the asks in my inbox, I promise I will be getting to you guys when I'm back and thank you for engaging with me. I don't want to act like I don't have awesome people in my circle or it's all doom and gloom. This has been boiling and finally reached a head tonight. I will be okay. I just need a minute.

See you soon,

-Muse

[scummy-writes]

I do this often but sorry for just. Postin a lot, and not posting fully finished smutfics lately.

I'm being more self-fulfilling with what I am writing lately, and I joke about the piss fic a lot, but it's also random ships, random fluff, this and that.

However, I am painfully aware that smut is why the majority of the followers I have follow me. I am aware that a lot of you came from vamp, from me writing Isaac and Arthur, sometimes theo, comte, etc... and now i've flipped around to writing someone who, in comparison, is a creep and not at all the character types you guys came here for- and I'm writing weird smut that isnt really super sexy? Some of it was, but then some of it was me opening up a word doc and sharing my thoughts in odd ways.

I am... having fun. On ao3 ive been going back and forth with drabbles/ideas with a new friend. Ive written out hcs that were purely just for me and realized that very bluntly and very quickly, I've shared some sfw stuff that was also bluntly shown to be just for me. And while I am not looking at it going "my writing sucks", I am looking at them and feeling a bit lonely on here at times. I often feel like I am talking to a void. I don't know how to change that outside of posting detailed smutfics that focus on things I may not want to focus on right now.

Outside of Glimpses of Teal and Auburn, and outside of random drabbles/reqs/comms I make, I don't think there is going to be future fanfics I make of Isaac and Arthur. I love them, I love them a lot! But ive also explored a Lot with them. I've also written them for years. There is more I would like to write, I have random Isaac wips that I still think about very often, but other ideas hit me more. I would rather set expectations to a realistic setting, rather than make a vague promise that isn't guaranteed.

Thats been weighin on me a lot lately, especially with villains releasing. I can tell i am likely going to enjoy later routes, they're ticking off a lot of boxes on themes I like but typically don't feel safe exploring in other media, so then I know I'd be juggling three interests at once and thats very difficult for me. I really dont know how so many writers can writer for a multitude of fandoms at once, I feel like the max for me is 2, or a vague 3. (And realistically, its possible villains will just be a thing I enjoy consuming more than creating for).

I do have comms I am working on, and outside of those I do not know when I will have a normal smutfic again. I enjoy exploring other things, but again I do know that its not why a majority of you are here!! I don't say this as a "ill make one soon!" psa, but rather... I'm having fun. I'm aware its not everyones cup of tea, but its not going away anytime soon. If that's something that displeases you, I would recommend thinkin about just occasionally checkin in on my blog instead, or just asking to be on my taglist so you can just get pinged for things without having to follow me.

And, well. I am chatty. I like having distractions from irl, and sometimes I pop in here in burts of posts. I say sorry since i know the anxiety is Clear and Radiating off of those posts, and sometimes I just feel awkward about it.

[randomshyperson]

Destiny of Madness - Wanda Maximoff x Reader

Summary: Reimagining and fixing of Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (again) or Wanda Maximoff is your destiny in every world and no one will keep you from her, not even the God of Chaos.

Warnings: Brief mentions of insinuation of smut, making out, a lot of violence (canonical and not), language, dark magic, dark(ish) fic as well || Words: 8.255k

A/N-> I disappeared for weeks because I was being audited at my job, and in cleaning the computer I ended up doing the same with my drive and discovered some stories practically complete and abandoned or forgotten. This is one of them. I'm not writing anything right now, so I'll post these stories I found.

General Masterlist || AO3 || Wattpad

--//--

“The Scarlet Witch is a being of unfathomable magic. She can rewrite reality as she chooses, and is prophesized to either rule or annihilate the cosmos.”

As Wong's speech came to an end, the nervousness and anxiety of everyone around were palpable. Strange hesitated.

"There has to be something, someone capable of standing up to her." He inquired the Supreme, who also seemed equally nervous. Wong gestured around.

"We can turn this place into a fortress. You can try talking to her, you fought side by side after all."

Strange shook his head, moving closer. "She wouldn't listen, the darkhold controls her completely. And even if the mages could hold her back, gaining a limited amount of time, she would still win. Please, Wong, try to think, to remember something. Don't we know anyone who can stand up to her?"

Wong was silent, thoughtful. It was not he, but another master who approached, and whispered something in his ear that made him grunt: "This is just a legend."

But Strange was interested, and Wong sighed in defeat before narrating the room, "The Scarlet Witch's magic belongs to Chthon, the God of Chaos. And for every absolute singularity, there is a counterpart. Oshtur, the benevolent goddess of truth, gifts warriors with her magic of order every millennium. I have never heard of one in this world, not even when the Ancient One was alive. It's just a myth."

"So was Wanda." Strange cuts in. He hesitates when the next moment, the Kamar Taj's alarms sound, and Wong beckons everyone to go to battle position.

Before they join the courtyard, Wong pulls his friend by the arm.

"Legend has it that these warriors travel the multiverse, cutting chaos off at the root. Not the kind of person you send to face a friend."

Strange looks up at the black fog that is beginning to cover the palace and sighs. "She is no longer a friend. Stand your ground, and let's protect that girl. The Scarlet Witch can not control the multiverse."

–/–

"I'm not a monster, Stephen. I'm a mother."

The conversation turned into a fight almost as fast as America could blink.

She had heard the whole conversation from Strange and Wong, and when Wanda's magic electrified her body, burning its way into her powers, some part of her must have focused on that.

It was true that she couldn't control the portals, but that didn't stop her subconscious from doing so.

Strange jumped in, pushing the two of them inside, and everything spun. Worlds vibrated between them until they landed together, rolling through a dark hall.

"Hey, kid you okay?" Strange questioned worriedly as soon as he managed to get to his feet. America had done so the second before and merely nodded, her gaze focused on the figure on their back further ahead.

Strange tugged on her forearm gently, preparing for a conflict.

"You there. Friend or foe?" He questioned the figure, and when you turned around - your clothes covered in blood, which clearly came from the body you had just stabbed - America exclaimed in fright, hiding behind Strange.

Your serious expression softened immediately. "Shit, so sorry about that! They were the bad guys, I promise." You clarified almost bashfully, running the dagger through your clothes to wipe away the blood as the body fell to the floor. "Forgive me for the mess, I wasn't expecting an audience." You comment with a chuckle, putting the dagger away, and as you begin to move your glowing fingers to wipe away the blood and vanish the victim, Strange understands that you are some kind of sorceress.

The symbol of the Sanctum Sanctorum hanging around your neck makes him breathe lighter.

"What did he do?" the sorcerer asked towards your victim, receiving a weary sigh in return.

"Murder of course. We always pay in the same coin." You clarify approaching, and despite having just killed someone, your look is one of the kindest he has ever seen. You look embarrassed with America still cowering in fear, "I didn't mean to scare you, child. See, I'm just doing my job, and there usually aren't any little girls watching."

America frowns. "I'm not a little girl. I'm already 14!" She defends herself almost indignantly, and it's clear to Strange that you had said that on purpose, to at least get her to talk to you, by the smile that plays on your lips.

"Oh, my mistake. You are not a child, indeed." You comment gently and offer your hand to Strange first. "Sorry for the odd introduction. I'm Y/N L/N."

"Doctor Stephen Strange." He introduces himself back. "Are you some kind of mage?"

You smile. "Yeah, sorceress. Not so different from you, I imagine." You say pointing to the symbol he carries. Stephen smiles softly, introducing America before adding:

"We are facing a threat and need to get home. Perhaps the sorcerers of this world can help us."

You are surprised, absorbing his word for a moment, and then sighing a little.

"Sure, I can take you the Supreme. Just, don't mention that they are not from here. Not everyone trusts multiverse travelers."

"How can you say we are not from this reality?" Strange asked, to which you gave a chuckle.

"You need to be a traveler to recognize the other." Is your answer, and he widens his eyes in surprise, but you continue leading the way out of the room then past a door with glowing vents that when it opens, leads to a busy street. It was clear to Stephen the door was enchanted with teleportation magic. Once outside, you put on your hood.

"Not all worlds are friendly, Stephen Strange. And rule number one is that no one can be trusted." You tell them.

Stephen looks around, this world looks like his, maybe a little more advanced in technology. America crosses her arms while looking around the city. "We're not supposed to trust each other, then?" He questions you, but you chuckle again, checking on your watch.

"I trust you, Stephen Strange." That's what you told him, and then a group of people crossed your path to pass through the light. By the time Stephen tried to look for you, you had already disappeared.

He turned to America in confusion, but the girl was looking straight ahead.

"Dude, that's you over there." She pointed to a large statue across the street. Stephen's eyes widened. 

"Come on." He grunted softly before pulling America to follow him.

–//–

“Oh, we can handle your little witch if she decides to Dreamwalk.”

If Strange could break both chains and immobilize Mordo somehow, he would make it to America in time. But the alarm was still ringing, and he was getting desperate.

Just as Mordo was about to hit him, something wrapped around the mage's neck and pulled him backward.

Stephen let out a huge sigh of relief when he saw that it was you - The golden thread came straight from the clock he saw you checking hours ago. Mordo fell to his knees, struggling for air as he tightened the item around him. But you didn't let go, waiting for him to pass out before releasing him.

"I told you not to trust anyone, and the first thing you did was warn them that you were from another reality!" You accused as you pulled the rope back, and prevented Mordo, now unconscious, from hitting his head on the ground as he fell.

"Hey hey hey, it's not my fault! The Strange of this world is dead. He knew as soon as I showed up." 

You rolled your eyes. "Never heard of disguise magic huh? And if he was someone you knew from your world, caution has to be doubled." You guided as you moved closer, without any difficulty to free the man from his handcuffs.

"And why is that?"

"Affection can influence your decisions. If you find a friend in the multiverse, you need to remember that it is not the person you knew." You explain shrugging your shoulders before looking around. "Come on, I think I can track the girl."

As they ran, Strange asked:

"What have you gotten yourself into anyway?"

But you only checked your watch again before looking at the doors down the hallway, continuing to lead the way at high speed.

When you came to a crossroads, and two equally desperate women bumped into you, Strange was almost surprised at the way you checked America for bruises.

"Are you sure you're okay?" You asked with a face streaked with concern, both hands on her shoulders. She blushed, nodding.

"Yeah, I'm fine." She said clumsily. "But Wanda, she's coming and-"

Your puzzled expression made Strange sigh. It was Cristine who spoke up. "We don't have time, we'll explain it to you on the way."

You started to run, but as soon as the words Scarlet Witch echoed, your steps stopped.

"What are you doing, we have to-"

"Go." You interrupt Strange with a determined look. "I'll stay behind."

"N-no, you can't." America said in shock. "She killed everyone! You won't-"

"Kid." Stephen interrupted, understanding. "She's a Warrior of the Order, like the legend of Wong. It's her duty."

You force a reassuring smile at America and nod to the mage. "Find the book, Strange. Take America to safety, I'll take care of Wanda." You tell him before heading off in the opposite direction they were going to run.

–//–

“This isn’t what your children would want.”

As soon as the witch reached them, they deduced that you lost.

Strange tried to put up a fight, easily being subdued and pushed into another world with Cristine through the portals.

America was exhausted. She hadn't stopped running for a minute for the last few weeks, and now, it seemed, she had lost for good.

She was thrown in, but the impact with the ground never happened. Instead, someone holds her by the arms.

"All right there, little girl?" you asked. And she was fine, alive, and safe. She looked up in complete shock, and you smiled playfully, eyes scanning her face. 

"H-how you....?"

"Shh, just trust me." You whispered, and America grunted a little at the way you grabbed her arm tightly and turned to the Witch breaking dreamwalking behind you. Once Wanda stood again, you cleared your throat. "You have America as you wanted. Now keep our deal."

The girl looked at you in a mixture of indignation. "N-no, but you are our friend-"

But you squeezed her arm gently, and as Wanda began to speak, America fell silent.

"I didn't kill him, as you asked. Now, the girl." She demanded, but you frowned.

"But where is he?" You insisted, and Wanda grunted impatiently.

"The girl, Y/N!"

"Wanda." You repeated and she lost patience, a red burst leaving her fists in your direction. America imagined you would go flying off on impact, feeling you let go of her arm, but when she looked back, you had your hand raised at chest height. Wanda's magic was restrained until it was gone, and you shook your hand as if you had just caught a baseball. "I knew you were going to do that eventually. You've been dying to attack me ever since you saw me, haven't you Witchy?"

Wanda, instead of answering, attacks again, and America exclaims in surprise as she is pushed away from the line of fire. She watches the fight - if you can call Wanda's frustrated attempts to hurt you that - completely stew. Until you stop resisting completely, and Wanda realizes that her magic simply won't hurt you. 

She puts her hands down, looking at you in disbelief. "What are you?"

But you draw your dagger. Wanda tenses, ready to strike again, but she is not the one you hit. 

America screams as Wong falls to the ground, the dagger wedged into his leg as he grunts in pain - You having stopped an attempted attack on the witch.

"I am a worshipper of Chaos, and you, Scarlet Witch, are my deity." You declared surprising both girls there. Wanda stammered in shock, but America shouted indignantly.

"You lied to us!" She accused. "Strange trusted you! You said you were a warrior of the order!"

You laughed tiredly, moving toward the supreme who was bleeding enough to only be able to grumble in pain. 

"There are no more Order Warriors, America. You saw me kill the last one." You begin to count neutrally and ignore Wong's protests when you touch him, busying yourself with stopping the bleeding. "I killed all of them, actually."

America shakes her head incredulously. "N-no, you carry the same symbol as them..."

You laugh again, moving your hand to the necklace on your neck and pulling it off with a simple motion. You throw it at the feet of Wong, who, although still wounded, is no longer in danger of bleeding to death.

"Coats of arms mean nothing in this vast multiverse, America. You, of all people, should know that." You retort by moving closer again, and though she struggles against it, you lead her to the stone table without difficulty. Soon, it is Wanda's magic that is holding her. 

You sigh deeply, placing your hands on the table and closing your eyes for a moment. America notices for the first time that the item on your wrist is not really a watch, but looks more like a small computer, full of graphics and numbers, like the ones she saw at the Illuminati headquarters.

Wanda seems uncertain about approaching. "I want to talk to you." She says to you, but you laugh, taking on an aggressiveness that no one there had seen yet.

"If you want to talk, tell me where you sent him then." You retort, and Wanda sighs.

"I don't know." She replies truthfully, and you seem conflicted about yelling at her or not. "I used the girl's powers and sent him to some other universe."

"What about the book?" You ask straightening up. Wanda hesitates. "The book, Wanda."

"I destroyed it." She replies and you sigh impatiently, shaking your head. "He was going to use it to stop me-"

"No, he was going to help you." You interrupt, starting to sweat a little and leaning your body as if in pain. "Fuck, why do you have to be so stubborn in all the worlds."

Wanda swallows dryly, shifting her weight between her feet. "Have we met?"

Your eyes grow sad, but you smile. "Many lifetimes ago." That's as you reply, before turning your attention back to America, still in shock at the whole thing. "Forgive me for not being honest, Miss Chavez, but I told you not to trust anyone. Take this as a lesson."

America had no way to respond, all that came out of her mouth were the grunts of pain as her magic began to be drained. You looked away, and Wanda looked back at you.

"I have to do this. I need her powers to get to my children."

But to the witch's surprise, you chuckled, falling to sit on the floor with one hand on your stomach and the other on your face. Wanda was moving toward you before she could think about it, concern on her face.

"What's wrong?" She asked, but you gasped softly, shaking your head.

"There's more, Wanda." You began, practically pleading with her as you looked at her. "Our worlds are prisons. Kang controls everything, he needs to be stopped-argh" You cut yourself off in a groan of pain, and Wanda frowned in desperation, her hands on your shoulders trying to find some injury. But there is nothing, not even blood. "Look into my mind, find my truth. I need to..." You gasped helplessly, your forehead falling on her shoulder. 

"You're burning up with fever, Y/N." Wanda grumbled. "Show me how to help you." She whispered, her eyes turning red as she let her fingers wrap around the strands of your hair, and her magic pierced your mind.

–/–

“The Scarlet Witch is a being of unfathomable magic. She can rewrite reality as she chooses, and is prophesized to either rule or annihilate the cosmos.”

A smile played on your lips at the legend, but you waited until class was over and the students all left before you entered the room.

"You didn't have to wait for me, Professor." The male figure says without turning around, finishing putting away the items in his bag.

You laugh. "Come on, Stephen, I need some company to gossip with at lunch." You retort, making him laugh.

It doesn't take long for you to make your way out of the room, through the busy halls of the university. Stephen had just finished telling you about his and Cristine's upcoming wedding anniversary when the subject came back to you.

"Miss Maximoff seemed quite happy this morning." He commented with a hidden intent that made you laugh softly, your cheeks slightly flushed.

"Yeah, I proposed to her last night."  You confess, receiving an exclamation of excitement at the same minute. 

"Y/N, that's great! Harkness didn't tell me, that old hag." He complained making you laugh. "I'm very happy for you two, really."

You nodded embarrassed, unable to stop smiling. Strange sighed, checking his watch.

"If you run, there's time to invite her to lunch with us. Agatha might complain about someone stealing her company later."

"Are you sure?"

"Of course, Professor. You can have lunch with boring old men whenever you want, but the company of your fiancée will make everything easier."

You slapped him gently, saying something about him being a friend and not a nuisance, before walking away toward the rooms again.

The floor was empty because of the lunch break, and when you opened the door to the penultimate room, you were surprised by signs of a fight.

The body on the floor took all the air out of your lungs.

"W-Wanda?" You choked, dropping your backpack and running to meet her. Shaky hands hugged her. "No, no, no. Wanda! Sweetheart, I'm here, open your eyes..."

Your sobbing was interrupted, the room was not empty. A man came through the door, wearing a black uniform. He seemed surprised to see you but didn't react with more than a tired sigh. He raised his hand to his ear.

"We have a variant, sir." He informed, not giving any thought to the two figures in the other corner. "No, not the Nexus Potential. I've already eliminated the witch, no other divergences. I was checking the area, but we had a slight change in events. Yes, the bride and the lunch option. Right, sir."

You only had time to roll out of the firing range, using the table as protection to avoid being killed.

The memories vibrated - speeding up and twitching. You were taken into custody to a place of temporal surveillance, and Wanda could feel your anger transcend those memories. The thoughts merged among other memories - flashbacks of your escape between worlds with the theft of one of the small pads the TVA used to travel the multiverse until your capture and killed.

But if you’re dead, how could you be here?

–//–

"I'm not a monster, Stephen. I'm a mother."

You were staring at yourself in the mirror. Wanda knew immediately - from the size, color of the hair, and different arrangement of the dots that you were not the same person she had seen in past memories.

Struggling with the tie until hands wrapped around your shoulders, making you laugh.

"We can't go back to that sweetie, I'm already late." You tried to negotiate, but couldn't resist the soft lips that met yours. When a hand slid into your pants, you gasped, "Wands, come on, it's our graduation..."

"Five minutes." She bargained, and you laughed softly, letting yourself be carried away as she pulled you by your loose tie to the bed.

Wanda fell in first, lying down and with her hair sprawled on the pillow. You bit your lips as she adjusted herself, your hands lifting the party dress so she could slide the panties between her legs, never breaking eye contact with you.

When the item fell, you grunted but it was from pain. You fell to your knees, with your hand on your head, and Wanda watched as her version immediately rushed to your rescue, trying to figure out what was wrong.

The Scarlet Witch looked into the mirror, able to see the cosmic entity possessing you.  Sharing the memories of the life you just lost.

An exclamation of surprise made Wanda turn her attention back to the two teenagers in the commode, and she was surprised to see you grab your girlfriend by the neck.

"Who are you?" you questioned evidentially confused, and the witch variant gasped in fear and confusion.

"Babe, it's me, Wanda-"

You let out, blinking in confusion, and bringing your hands to her cheeks as if seeing her for the first time. "My god, Wanda, look at you. You're so young..."

"Y/N, you're scaring me."

But you stood up, returning to the mirror and groping your face as if you could hardly believe you were really there. "It worked, honey. I remember everything."

"Babe, what are you talking...?"

You turned back to her, helping her to her feet and placing her in a sitting position on the bed. "Forgive me for the scare, I've never had a subjugation before. I am not the Y/N you know, I will never be again. This is painful, and I hate that you lost her, but there was no other way. We are all trapped, living in a sick little game of someone who thinks he is a god. I'm going to set us free."

Wanda denied with her head, concern in her expression. "Babe, did you hit your head somewhere? What are you talking about..."

But you offered her a sad smile, holding her cheeks. "God, you are so young. My memories are merging, this variant was so lucky to meet you in school, you two had so much fun. She, I, love you. Deeply, and in all universes apparently." You commented with a tearful laugh. "Forgive me for taking this away from you, but it will be safer this way."

Wanda blinked in confusion, but soon, her eyes went dark. You were erasing your existence from her mind.

The Scarlet Witch tensed as your gaze met hers, just inside the memory.

"You're in the wrong place, Wanda. Look deeper, don't mind the pain." That's what the memory - or your conscience - told her.

When the scene changed again, she expected everything but the twins.

Wanda choked, but they couldn't see her. Still, she was crying.

"Man, you're cheating!" Billy complained, elbowing his brother sitting next to him. They were older than Wanda had ever seen them, almost sixteen, and both were playing video games. Tommy rolled his eyes, a smile playing on his lips.

"Don't be such a bad loser." He retorted, but they began to push each other until a golden light separated them. 

"I said no more fighting!" Your voice rang out, and it had evidently been your magic that separated the boys, who grumbled loudly. 

"Sorry, Mom!" they spoke in unison, but you only muttered something about teenagers, busy climbing a small ladder from the bookcase. 

Wanda was not so surprised by her variant's presence next - leaving the kitchen and kissing you against the bookshelf before starting to help you with the organization of the items. No, what took the air out of her lungs was the black figures coming through the garden that she could see through the window.

She tried to warn, despair filling her chest even though it was useless to wave at a memory. 

And soon, she was staring at bodies.

A soldier grabbed you by the hair, and you faced your murdered family for the next few minutes until they were cleared by the TVA to report in.

The Scarlet Witch was crying too, and when the memory switched to the TVA base, this time you didn't run away like the first time. No, this time you took your time to make a massacre.

And Wanda believes that you were right.

–//–

“Oh, we can handle your little witch if she decides to Dreamwalk.”

Wanda was in an open field. And even though it was a memory, the magic there was so strong that she felt her body shiver with cold.

It was dark magic. Very powerful, very filthy. Cursed, if you can put it that way.

Following the sounds of fighting, she ended up in a more private area, like a camp. But the vast majority of the soldiers were dead, leaving only one pair.

Armor suits you, Wanda thought when she saw the variant. But she pushed the thought away at the same second.

The third figure was out of the fray. It was a hooded man, and he was hurrying away with the items on the table.

You won the fight, and as your opponent fell, you turned to the other.

"Kang, enough running away." You warned, but he ignored it, wasting no time in trying to hit you with magic, which you used a shield to block. 

"Killing me doesn't change anything!" He shouted back, and despite the fear on his face, there was confidence behind his words that made Wanda shudder. He spread his arms, gesturing to his surroundings. "I am just one of many. You can't stop us!"

He ran, but you hurled your sword at his thigh, and he fell with a cry of pain. You approached him breathless from the struggle.

"I am saving these people, Y/N. Try to see." He rants, getting an incredulous laugh.

"If these people stay within your plan, of course." You mock, taking off your practically ruined armor. Kang grunts in irritation.

"They make sure the multiverse doesn't break. You don't understand what I am doing here. The greatness of my work!"

But you sigh wearily, pulling a dagger from your belt. Kang shakes his head.

"Please, mercy."

"Mercy? Are you fucking with me now, Kang?" You retort angrily, hitting his face with the hilt of the dagger so hard that he falls to the ground. "You killed my family in 182 different worlds. All because they stepped out of what you thought was right for your ideal timeline. I had to watch my wife die in 72 different lifetimes, and then my children. And you have the audacity to ask me for mercy?"

Kang gushes blood on the floor, looking at you with neutrality.

"The multiverse needs order." He says, but you laugh, hitting him hard again.

You grab him by the collar of his shirt next, your face full of fury. "I'm going to destroy every stone in that place, and when I'm done, I'm going to hunt down every version of you. You won't live, Kang, anywhere. You have lost the right to exist."

He grunts in pain as you slowly dig the dagger into his chest. He uses his last strength to place his hand over yours. "If you love chaos so much, worship it. I cursed you."

You jumped away from his touch with a surprised sigh, and Kang fell backward, dead. A smile on his face nonetheless.

Wanda saw you shudder as if you were seeing a ghost, and begin to hug and scratch yourself as if you were sick, despair in your eyes.

The color of the sky changed to a vibrant red, and Wanda immediately recognized the same atmosphere as in her own home. The ground began to rot beneath Kang's body, but the roots reached toward your ankles.

"N-no, please...." You tried to whimper, fighting against the restraints and reaching for the dagger. But no matter how hard you cut, the roots wouldn't let go, and the crater that opened up and swallowed the enchanter's body was getting closer by the second. You cried but shook your head before forcing the dagger against your own chest.

When you died, Wanda was pushed away.

–//–

“This isn’t what your children would want.”

Blood. Everywhere, from the ceiling to the floor, from the tips of your shoes to the last strand of your hair.

Your mouth also tasted iron.

Golden chains glittered amidst the slaughter, and you dropped the dagger to the floor, the sound of an electronic alarm clock blaring in the room.

But it wasn't a clock you looked at. It looked like one, it was the same shape at least, but when you ran your hand over it, holograms became visible, and because Wanda couldn't see in the reflection of anything in the room, she knew immediately that only you could see that information - and now so could she, from within your memories.

It was a timer in reality. And it had just restarted.

You started to cry, but moved to the bodies one by one, tearing the chains or golden rings off the victims.

Wanda watched as you gathered them all up and knelt down as if to pray. You closed your eyes and whispered in a language too ancient for her to recognize.

Runes appeared on the wall, burning and destroying like fire. The rings and chains that you had placed in front of you drifted to the ground until they disappeared. You opened your eyes, sighing wearily.

"I did what you asked, my lord. Now free me. I beg you." You choked on a sob, lowering your face to recover. 

At first, Wanda thought maybe you were talking to Kang - another version that was more powerful. But when the room shook, and a low, demonic laugh filled her ears, she knew better. 

You shuddered like the witch watching your memories.

"Free you? Why would I do that when you are such an obedient pet?" Mocked a male voice, the runes vibrating with his words. Wanda held her breath. It was suffocating, like the ones she hears in the darkhold.

You sniffled. "I-I did what you asked. Please."

But the demon laughed again. "It wasn't me who conjured your curse, sorceress." He reminded in a provocative tone. "Don't act like I'm not merciful to you. All those walks between the worlds. I could have turned you over to the Living Court, but I accepted you as a servant in spite of everything. Don't forget how many crimes you committed..."

"They hurt my family!" You tried but grunted in pain afterward - Wanda understood that the demon could also punish her physically when it wished.

"Puppets, Y/N. You know that." He retorted more calmly. "All those variants in the service of a man, a pathetic human who thinks he can play god. You know my limitations in this dimension my siblings cursed me to, I need warriors like you, willing to break the order for me."

You whimpered a little, massaging your stomach before raising your face to the runes.

"Chthon, please." You pleaded, and there was a pause.

"It was good service, child, I admit." He says. "I will be merciful again, given your exceptional competence. I have never had such a talented warrior, not even Mephisto with his Riders are so efficient. I will promote you."

"B-but you told me you were going to free me!" 

This time, whatever he did made you scream in pain and fall to the ground. As you recovered, trembling in a fetal position, Wanda felt a presence materialize behind her.

"Apparently, your new boss is already here."

Wanda froze, not having the courage to look back and confirm if there really was someone behind her. She could feel it, but when she risked looking into the mirrors, there was no reflection. If Chthon was here, he wasn't really there.

"I will present you with the most honorable position you could ever imagine, child." Says the demon. "And believe me, you will like the Witch I have chosen."

You squirm softly, fighting the pain to sit up again. "Don't make me kill anyone else, please."

Chthon laughs, with delight. "Why do mortals fear death that much? I've never understood it. It is what you were created to do."

"Please, my lord." You repeat with your head down, and Wanda can hear the demon sigh impatiently.

"You will not kill unless she asks you to do so, I promise."

You blink in confusion, looking up. " D-don't you want me to kill the witch?"

Chthon laughs indignantly. "What, my Scarlet Witch? Of course not. She's precious, she's... merchandise. My most powerful toy, and so her collar breaks easily. That's where you come in, little one. I have ways of keeping her under my command, the demons imprisoned in my teachings can affect anyone. But witches less powerful than her have already resisted the influence of my darkhold, after all, you can't keep poking the same wound and have the same effect forever. If there's one thing your kind does annoyingly well, it's adapt."

You wipe your face, breathing wearily. "Where should I find her and when should I bring her to you?"

The commode goes silent until you sniffle again.

"You are hers, Y/N, not the other way around." Chthon clarifies making you shudder. "You stay with her until she gets bored, I imagine."

You deny with your head, sobbing before pleading:

"I did what you asked! Why are you doing this-"

But the room shudders, and you fall silent in an exclamation of pain.

"You are insolent, girl. It angers me deeply. I have been benevolent to you all this time, and you are never grateful. Get back to work, I just increased your debt. You don't stop until every trace of Oshtur is banished from this dimension, and when it's over, I might consider telling Wanda to have mercy on you."

You raise your head immediately at the mention of the name, confusion stamped on your face. "W-Wanda? What about her?"

Chthon's laugh is even more sinister. "Oh, did I forget to mention? Funny thing, fate. No matter how much Kang alters things, trying to make sure that in the worlds he thinks he controls you and Wanda never met, things always go back to how they're supposed to happen." Narrates the demon mysteriously. "Wanda Maximoff is my scarlet witch, my queen of chaos. And you are to be her worshipper."

For the first time, the gleam in your eyes is one of fury, not fear. "How dare you involve her in this, Chthon? That's dirty, even for you."

Chthon laughs, and the room shudders, but this time, the pain only makes your expression falter a little. You bear it. 

"Your mistake was underestimating how important she is to me, you old demon. I hope you rot in your forgotten kingdom." You warned, getting up with a little difficulty. Chthon continued laughing until you reached the door.

"You cannot contradict the mark of the curse, Y/N. Even death won't rid you of me."

Wanda knew it was hurting. The blood coming out of your ears was fresh, and you were limping. But you kept walking.

"She will come to you in four winters, be ready to kneel." It was the demon's last warning before the runes disappeared.

The memory breaks, transforming into one that Wanda was present.

"I'm so sorry Peggy." You whispered before sliding the dagger away, holding your friend’s of other lifes body as she falls dead to the ground. It was a quick death, at least. Captain Marvel was next, Wanda almost thought it was you actually, but she lowered her hands when she saw that you were fighting alongside her, and not the other way around.

Maria didn't even have time to understand what was happening properly before she felt the blow.

Your hands were shaking, but you took a deep breath.

"Who are you?" Wanda asked in a thick accent. You put the dagger away.

"A friend, if you want me to be." You answer, and as you approach, she tenses, her serious face analyzing you. You don't lose your ground. "You won't be able to read my thoughts with a variant, Wanda. I'm as strong as you are."

"Hard to believe that." She retorts almost cockily, and you can't help the smile that fills your lips. 

"I guarantee it, but I don't want to face you. I didn't come here for that." 

"And why did you come here for?"

"You." You answer bluntly. "I know more than you can imagine, far beyond what darkhold says is the truth. I will tell you everything I know if you will do one thing for me."

"I could rip the truth out of you." She retorts without hesitation, but you take another step forward.

"Not when you can be reasonable." You say and she locks her jaw, but you chuckle softly, taking another step toward her, now close enough to touch. "Let's make a deal. You want the girl, but not the sorcerer. Let Strange live, in another life, he was a friend. Someone who set me free, allowed me to see the truth. I owe it to him. You will go through that door, and you will have the girl as you wanted, but Strange will try to get a book, which you must not destroy. Promise."

"I won't promise anything, we don't even know each other-"

"I'll do anything you want." You cut her off pleadingly. "Your plan is to stay in another world with your children? I know the multiverse, I know how worlds work, in-depth. I can guide you wherever you want, I can even help you drain America's power properly. Just-"

"We have a deal." It's her turn to interrupt you, and you sigh in relief. You swallow dryly then and give her passage.

"They went in that direction." You say, and Wanda hesitates just before she starts walking. 

"Aren't you coming?" she asks, but you give her a small smile, your eyes hiding a sad gleam.

"My loyalty does not belong to this variant of you." You said, and when Wanda turned around, you returned your attention to the clock on your wrist. To the timer ticking in a few minutes.

The ground disappeared because you teleported.

–//–

“You ever had that dream where you’re falling as if you’ve been pushed off a tall building? That was probably me.”

Wanda helped you sit up properly until you support your back on the wall.

"Tell me how to help you. Please." The witch asked with her hands on your cheeks burning with fever. You gasped in pain, trying to check your watch again.

"Command." You muttered weakly, to which Wanda only frowned in confusion.

"What?"

"Chaos time. I need to... obey." You tried to respond beyond pain, but it was enough for Wanda. She nodded and looked around, trying to think of something. 

"D- does it need to be an action, or can it be anything? "She asked and you almost whimpered in pain, only not falling to the ground because Wanda was holding you up.

"Anything, Wanda." You sigh. She swallows dryly, determined.

"Tell me how to get my children back."

You gasp in pain before forcing yourself to answer, " You can't, not this way... They control everything. If you don't have them, it's because the TVA wanted it that way. You can't steal them from somewhere else, they'll come after you. Believe me, I already tried. You didn't see it, but the memories are here, of the lives I tried to own. Worlds break like glass when we do that, Wanda. There can only be one of us, or we can't stay."

Wanda shakes her head, refusing to believe it. You can adjust a little, "I can make it work." She stubbornly says. "My magic is powerful enough."

But it's your turn to deny it with your head. "No, Wanda, don't you see? This is what he wants you to do. Break the multiverse, destroy worlds for him. I did that, and Kang can sell my soul to Chthon with a simple call. I don't want you to be his puppet too."

Wanda swallows dryly, trying to control the urge to cry. She puts her hands on your shoulders. "Tell me how to free you, we'll do it together."

"I don't know how, I don't think it's possible. If it is, I don't know that answer." You retort, panting a little but breathing better now that you have obeyed two orders. "Your pain, Wanda, he uses to blind you. Doesn't rewriting reality allow you to see how much bigger things are? I need to free the worlds Kang imprisons, if not, nothing matters because he will keep changing all events to his liking."

Wanda sighs, leaning her forehead against yours. "I can't give up on them." She whispers, and it is her turn to sigh.

"Ask me." You say, and she pulls away a little just to look at you. "Ask me to take over the influence."

"W-what?"

"That's why I wanted you not to destroy the book of the Vishanti. In it, there were counter-spells for the darkhold. I wanted to rewrite what is stated in the sacred timeline, I believed that as a Nexus being, you could. But apparently, Kang is still in front of me." You say with a sad laugh. "The only reason he doesn't hunt me down like he does all my versions now, is that this one here belongs to Chaos. Kang can play god, but he's not a real one, and even he knows that. The curse was a backfire because I learned to move beyond it. Every day, I have shifts of obedience, where the chaos becomes too strong for me to ignore. When I must comply, I work for Chthon, but when I am free, I work against Kang. It's hard and tiring, but I've freed worlds from his command this way. It worked for a while until Chthon got you involved."

Wanda swallowed dryly but did not interrupt. Her body shuddered a little. 

"I belong to Scarlet Witch now, but before...I was once only Wanda's. My friend, my wife." You counter with a sad smile. "And I cannot watch you continue to hurt yourself. Ask me to take over the darkhold's influence, and I will make all voices that are not yours disappear from your head."

Wanda hesitates. "I can't do that to you."

"Yes, you can." You insist, offering her a tender smile. "I'll be fine, I promise. It won't be even remotely the first time I've had to face demons." You joke, but just from the weak smile, there is a pang of guilt on her face that you cannot ignore. "Please, Wanda. It hurts me more to see you lose yourself."

She sniffles a little, looking away. Wanda takes a deep breath and takes your hand in her lap. "I want you to take the influence." She commands, and with that, she feels as if a weight is being lifted off her back. You, in return, grunt in pain and squeeze her hand. Wanda sniffles again, holding you back. "Hey, I'm here."

But you sob, letting your face fall onto her shoulder, your body shaking in spasms. She holds you close, stroking your back gently.

Strange appears in battle mode - and undead - only to find the Witch he came to face embracing someone he figured to be dead. America, free of her powers since Wanda was rid of the book's influence, was kneeling beside Wong.

"You took your time." Ironized the Supreme to the Zombie, but Strange only made a confused expression.

"What...?"

"It's a long story, but I think Wanda will explain everything when Y/N feels better. They're kind of wives, you know? It's pretty cool." America commented, helping Wong to stand. She noticed the zombie's hesitation. "Yeah, Y/N tricked us. But it was for a good cause. Apparently, there is a war going on in the multiverse that we know nothing about. But don't you think we'd better take Wong for medical attention first?"

With that, Strange comes out of shock and nods. As soon as he realizes his real condition, however, he calls America. The girl laughs softly. "Don't worry, I'll find you." She assures him before Wong conjures a portal to the Kamar Taj.

–//–

A familiar smell of food filled your senses as you began to undress, and because it had been god knows how many universes since you first smelled it, you practically jumped out of bed.

The exertion made your body complain, but you ignored the pain and followed the aroma, not recognizing the cabin you were in but appreciating the beauty of the place.

"Wanda." You called out to her as soon as the figure became visible, and the woman made a surprised expression.

"Y/N, you shouldn't be standing!" She tried to ration, leaving the pans to approach you, but you swallowed dryly, shuddering when her hands touched your arms.

"How did you...?"

"It's okay, sweetheart. You're safe." She assures you sweetly, caressing your body and then bringing her hands to your cheeks. "Don't think too much, you need to rest first. And eat, if you're feeling well enough to do so. Come, I made your favorite."

She tries to drag you by the hand, but you keep your ground.

"How do you know it's my favorite?"

Wanda sighs, taking her gaze from your joined hands to look into your eyes. "I looked. Everything, from the very beginning. I needed to know if I could trust you."

"What about me, Wanda?" You challenged. "How do I know if I can trust you, if you're not another one of Kang's puppets?"

Wanda released your hand only to bring it to her face.

"I'm not. I promise." She says with her strong accent. "And you can guarantee that."

You frown slightly, but she smiles, smoothing your cheek.

"Teach me the consciousness transfer spell." She asks. "That way, it will be me. All the versions you've ever known and lost, in one. But come eat first, we'll have time for that later."

The food was delicious, it was like tasting a memory. You almost cried with longing for a home you could never step inside again.

Wanda understood the feeling.

"You are uneasy." She comments a long moment later, her fingers tracing a drawing on the table, and her eyes watching for any reaction from you. "Your head is noisy."

"It's not me." You retort almost between your teeth, half gasping, and startling her. "It's the God of Chaos and his circus of demons."

Wanda swallows dryly, moving her hand to yours in your lap.

"Tell me how to help you."

And that makes you give a small, tired laugh, entwining your fingers in hers. "That's my job, Scarlet Witch."

But Wanda doesn't smile, squeezing. "Then I command you to let me help you." She says seriously. "I don't want you to get hurt because of me. I don't deserve-"

You interrupt her with a kiss. Firm and passionate, and needy. Wanda chokes in surprise, pulling back but you hold her hand in yours and she doesn't pull away much further than that. She blinks between confusion and doubt, and only meets your devoted irises, letting out a shaky breath before sinking in once more, kissing with intent now.

She has never felt the sensation before - not in her own experience at least - and it is intoxicating. She remembers the feeling from watching your memories about variants of herself that you kissed, made love to, and fucked, but nothing counts as the actual experience. Your lips feel as it should, your tongue explores her mouth with experience and familiarity. You bite a little just the way she likes it.

And it's too much. 

Wanda hasn't had real intimacy in years, and it overwhelms and frightens. She pushes your shoulder, panting and clumsy as she stands up, babbling about too fast, too new. 

"Forgive me." You interrupt as soon as you find a gap. She swallows dryly as she turns her expression to you, finding her equally affected but evidently exhausted as well. "You've seen my head, Wanda. I know it's too much. You know how much I've lost, everything I've done to get this far. All the way to the version of you that could put an end to this sick cycle." You say, your eyes filling with tears. "But baby, I've traveled a thousand worlds to be with you. You are my only destiny in this vast multiverse, Wanda. And you need to know that I will want to kiss you whenever I get the chance."

She gives a tearful laugh, moving closer again and kneeling at the height of her chair.

"First tell me how to make the pain stop." She asks again, and you sigh, moving closer to kiss her forehead, one hand smoothing her hair.

"Don't worry, witchy. Pain only makes us stronger."

"Y/N, please-"

"It's a pleasure to take it for you." You interrupt seriously. "If chthon wants a chat, he'll get me, not you. And that's final. Would you like to help me, dear? Start with Kang, help me free these worlds and stay with me." You say looking into her eyes. "Will you do that, Wanda? Stay?"

A smile forms on your lips, and Wanda leans in, mere centimeters from your face.

"Of course, darling. You are my destiny too."

[chaotictarlos]

You took the best of my heart and left the rest in pieces

ship: Tarlos | fandom: 911 Lone Star | author: chaotictarlos| read on ao3

Rating: Explicit Warnings:  Angst, Carlos Reyes needs a hug, canon divergence, before season 3 and during, feelings of being unwanted, self-doubt, Grace is Carlos’ bestie, break-up sex, anal sex, m x m smut, mlm, canon whump, ex-lovers, lots of feelings, canon whump, tk strand whump, internalized homophobia

Word Count: 23,520

Summary: An exploration of emotions. 

To Cassi @ronensass who is my angst bestie and lets me send her songs (and send songs in return) and random thoughts about tarlos - I’m sorry that this took so long to get out.

To Ali @sapphire11 who became one of the biggest supporters of this fic as I wrote it. Thank you for all the encouragement and love that you gave me.

To Giggles @detective-giggles who is just a fantastic person and always listened to my ideas and lets me scream in her inbox about so many different things and sends me the best plot bunnies.

To Noxy @noxsoulmate who always listens to my spirals and allows me to scream about different things and ideas and who always helps me put my ideas into the proper order.

To @lightningboltreader who was so encouraging and allowed me to scream with them about this fic and was always excited when I posted something about it.

To @thebumblecee @mooshkat and @cowlos-reyes has listened to me complain and stress over this fic many times.

To everyone in the TWP discord who has been encouraging and so kind.

Thank you to everyone who's sent an ask about this, who has taken the time to send motivation, and have been excited for this fic to come out.

Author's Note: Title from In the Stars by Benson Boone. Cassi sent me this song and I’ve been listening to it a lot on my drives I thought of this idea so here it is. Remember this is slightly canon divergent so not everything might line up with canon but I did the best I could to make it mostly canon. Though it did, at times, take on a mind of its own. This fic means a lot to me. I spent 6 months writing it and it grew to be this epic -what I think - a masterpiece and I have a few others planned to go on with this fic. I hope you guys enjoy it. I would love to know your thoughts so please drop your thoughts in a comment, send me a DM, or an ask. I'm so nervous to post this dnsndj I hope you all enjoy it and take time to read it. I know it's long.

I am writing a TK POV and a sequel where it explores them getting back together. I hope to have those out soon.

I have also made a Spotify playlist for this fic! Take a listen as you read!

----

Oh, it hurts so hard

For a million different reasons

You took the best of my heart

And left the rest in pieces

- In the Stars by Benson Boone

Past Sundays would have found Carlos awake early and in the kitchen, making breakfast for him and TK because it was their favorite day. After TK got hurt again, they had made a promise to each other that they would always set aside one day of the week that would be their day. A day that they would set aside for time with each other, a day where their attention would only be on each other and they would ignore - within reason - outside forces. It took a lot of begging, graveling with their captains, and promises of picking up an extra shift if needed, but they were both able to get Sundays off so they could enjoy the act of just being together. It was important to both of them that they had one day to stop and enjoy each other’s company and remember that they were important to each other - not that that fact was often forgotten.

Carlos would always start with making a pot of coffee and let the smell of it fill the townhouse. It was a dark roast that both he and TK were fond of. It always made Carlos chuckle to make it because he knew that TK was going to load it down with sugar and cream, ruining the taste of it in Carlos’ opinion, but he was still fond of how TK did it; he had given up on trying to convince TK to get one of the sweeter coffees so that he could add fewer things to it. Carlos would make himself a cup and enjoy the morning paper before he would start breakfast.

Sunday had become pancake day for breakfast. It hadn’t always been that way when they started setting the day aside for each other, and Carlos couldn’t remember what had prompted them to decide that they were going to have pancakes each Sunday, but it was enjoyable. Carlos liked to challenge himself and each week he would come up with different ways to make the pancakes so that they wouldn’t grow tired of it.

Eventually, the smell of coffee and pancakes drifting through the townhouse would wake TK and he would wander into the kitchen, most often blanket still wrapped around his shoulders. TK would mutter a good morning, sometimes complaining that morning came too fast, and Carlos would wordlessly hand him a mug of coffee and kiss his temple. He would urge his sleepy boyfriend to go back to bed and tell him he would bring breakfast to bed when it was down. 

After a few more kisses were exchanged, Carlos would watch TK shuffle back to bed with a soft smile on his face. He would finish breakfast, make two plates, and put them on a tray to carry up and into the bedroom. It was always a 50 / 50 chance whether TK would be awake and drinking his coffee, or asleep with his cup sitting on the nightstand beside him. If he was sleeping, it was never tough to rouse him again and convince him to wake up for breakfast - and more kisses, of course.

They would eat and laugh together and then later, with their dishes cast aside, they would enjoy each other in bed before taking an after-breakfast nap and then spend most of the morning cuddled in each other's arms. The afternoons were always reserved for going to the Reyes’ for Sunday dinner. 

It was always a time when they could just be together and enjoy being in love. Even when the townhouse burned down and they had to move in with Owen for a while, they still found ways to make their Sundays special to them. They might have looked different, but they were still filled with love and taking time to be together. It was the one little bit of normalcy they had when everything went up in flames.

But all that was before.

READ ON AO3

tags: @strangefurychaos @ronensass @sapphire11 @first-kanaphan @angeltk @noxsoulmate  @beautifulhigh @welcometololaland @rangergurlgleek1211 @detective-giggles @tarlos-spain @lonestardust @bubblesandroses8 @thebumblecee @mooshkat @importantbailiffpaperpony @tarlos-spain @ramblingdisaster73

[resident-idiot-simp]

Ahavswjsocs the Hades and Persephone line was a little thought I had midway through typing all that out, I’m glad you guys liked it it’s about time Ghost wears a flower crown!

I love your writing I sent you an ask yelling at you about Ghost eating god Roba a while back. I wanted to show you that your writing gets me super excited It’s why I sent my mad ramblings your way in the first place I just don’t know what to do with all the words in my head.

You always put thought and meaning into what you write and the subtex is always fun to try and pick up on.

I’ve never actually written fanfic before my writing and grammar skills are… subpar to say the least, just writing one of these can take a good couple of hours and I always find mistakes after posting lol.

I loved Azilver’s interpretation as well and they were right Ghost is a bit to fatalistic to be hopeful essentially I just want him to have something to fight for. I’ve never been a fan of grimdark or mcd when I can avoid them.

your comment of being a realistic optimist was really on point tough

I’m glad we all agree soap is actually really smart though just because someone is dumb of ass doesn’t mean they’re dumb of brain

Also I may be away for a little bit I’m going to find out if I need minor surgery tomorrow so if I disappear for a lil bit that’s why

Look I am a HUGE Greek Mythology nerd, and the Hades and Persephone myth is one of my favorites of all time! It also fits incredibly well.

THAT WAS YOU!? HAHA That ask hit like a truck lmao I still think about that all the time. I love hearing other people's thoughts It's a great way to expand one's ideas and creations. I will hear anything anyone has too through at me.

I'm glad you noticed I care a lot about what I make and some of it comes naturally to me the double meanings and hidden symbolism, but I love adding and hiding things even if it is just a treat for me. I want to do a thing called Resi's Breakdowns where I go over a fic you want to see my thought process behind. (Like I did on Ao3 but have it to where people can ask for specific fics)

You are preaching to the choir honey I get it LMAO!

Understandable I also liked both yours and Az's interpretations and I think they can both work. I suspect you know I love me some angst, but I understand.

I'm glad because I hate how pessimistic people are sometimes, I get it but if you look for the good it is there I promise.

My dude he was the youngest person to ever pas SAS selection and he specializes in demolitions. DO YOU KNOW HOW HARD THAT WOULD BE!? That man is insanely intelligent, and I will hear nothing else. I imagen in school he was one of those rare super nice jocks who were also SUPER smart.

I hope everything goes well I will be praying for you even if that's not your thing. I wish you a speedy recovery and hope to hear from you soon my friend 🩷

[television-overload]

[FIC PREVIEW]

2023 NCIS/Tiva Christmas!

Here's the first scene of my upcoming Christmas fic! I'm hoping to have it finished by Christmas, of course. Let me know if you want to be tagged! It will also be posted to AO3 (ContentsPriceless).

I'm actually gonna edit this to take out anything mentioning Ducky's funeral, now that we know they'll cover that this season, so you get an ultra-rare pre-editing peek 😅

I'm sure I'll write a tribute fic at some point, maybe a fix it if we don't get cameos or at least a hefty mention of Tony and Ziva .

“Daddy, Daddy! I can see the glaciers!” Tali announced excitedly, her face pressed up against the small airplane window.

Tony DiNozzo smiled and peeked over her head of wavy brown hair to catch a glimpse of the snow-covered Alaskan wilderness below. “You remember what you learned about glaciers in school?” he prompted.

“Uh-huh! They’re like frozen rivers that move down the mountains!”

“Something like that,” Tony chuckled. “You’d better sit down and buckle up, Tals, we’ll be landing soon.”

The nine-year-old obeyed, sitting back in her seat where her legs didn’t quite touch the ground—though the way she’d been growing lately, it wouldn’t be long.

“Can I have your phone to take pictures?” Tali asked once she was properly buckled, the seatbelt tightened by her father until he deemed it sufficient.

With an exaggerated sigh, Tony fished the device out of his back pocket and handed it over. “Don’t take too many, we need to save some space for pictures of all the other cool stuff we see.”

With his daughter occupied, Tony turned his attention to the woman sitting in the aisle seat beside him.

“Hey, you doing alright?” he asked in a low voice, placing a hand on her knee.

She had been shifting uncomfortably for the last hour or so of their flight, unable to get positioned in a way that took the pressure off her back. They had broken up their journey from Paris with a day’s respite in New York City, where they were able to catch up with some of Tony’s extended family. Tali, in particular, loved seeing the sights and stuffing her face with giant slices of pizza. But still, it put a lot of strain on Ziva’s body.

“I am starting to rethink what a good idea it was to travel so extensively while pregnant,” she spoke with a grimace, rubbing her rounded belly in comforting circles.

Tony hummed in sympathy, his fingers finding her lower back and massaging there as best as he could in such a confined space. She sighed in relief, her head falling against his shoulder and her eyes drooping shut.

“In our defense, when we planned this trip, we didn’t know you’d be five months pregnant,” he said softly with a teasing lilt to his voice.

It was true. They had almost given up on the prospect of having another child, promising that if it didn’t happen before Tali turned ten, they would stop trying. But finally, after years of negative tests, they got their positive, and Tony and Ziva were overjoyed. Tali, too, was looking forward to having a baby brother or sister. The high pitched squeal she had emitted when they first broke the news proved to them that she would be the best big sister a kid could ask for, and she had slept with a copy of the ultrasound in a frame beside her bed ever since.

But when they first started planning this trip almost a year ago, they had not planned on an additional passenger in utero, which definitely complicated things a little. After Gibbs visited them in Paris for the holidays the year prior, they knew they wanted to be with family. That had been the first time they’d seen him since Ziva had finally been reunited with Tony and Tali, and there was a lot of joy to go around. Tali had taken to calling him Grampa Gibbs, and in almost no time at all, they were like two peas in a pod.

“I can’t wait to see everyone,” Ziva murmured, a small smile pulling at her lips. “I hear Jimmy is bringing Agent Knight.”

“I’m glad,” Tony said, “it will be good for him to have her there, I think.”

Although the shape of their makeshift family had changed a lot over the years, love was still at the heart of it, that was the only thing that mattered. They’d met Jessica Knight only once, at Ducky’s funeral a few months back, but the consensus was that she was a great match for Jimmy, and she seemed to get along with Victoria too.

It had been a reunion of sorts with everyone coming to pay their respects to the beloved M.E., even Abby who sadly wouldn’t be able to make it to Alaska this Christmas. This year would be strange, without Ducky there to verbosely share stories of Christmases of old. His warm smile and even warmer hugs would be greatly missed by all who knew him.

After a few more minutes, a voice came over the speaker instructing passengers to take their seats for landing, and Tony pressed a kiss to Ziva’s temple.

“You hear that?” he said, his lips brushing against her hair, “Only a little bit longer, hon.”

-.-.-

... to be continued

Tag list: @benedettabeby @earanemith @happygirl-0408 @hopeless-nostalgic @indestinatus @loudlooks @nicolem194 @putthekettleon @slippery-soapbox @tivafanfic @tonysziva

[redthreadoffate]

the gift of communication

happy holidays to you, dear @citrus-cactus. i was your secret santa and i am very sorry this is so late. i was supposed to post this after one more check once i arrived but my parents told me that there was no need to bring my laptop, so here i am posting it using my ipad and i hope it still looks okay!

anyways, backstory aside, i do hope you enjoy this little thing i wrote! and i'm really sorry if this isn't what you had in mind. i had to re-watch some hurricane touchdown scenes to get wallace's character as good as i could, i would've watched the movie if i had the time so i super apologize if this isn't to your liking. i had a lot of fun writing it and i would really love to know your thoughts if you get the chance to give them :)

just a few notes in case you want to run ; editing mistakes here or there [there better not be…] // timeline is more on adventure 02 in between the ending and epilogue // this is not set in the same world as my other fics due to inspiration reasons // i will post this on ao3 soon // i tried my best to give the digimon feel and i think I achieved it, so…

…without further ado, i present to you this little fic. enjoy! have a merry christmas and a happy new year! 🥰

the gift of communication | main characters ; wallace, terriermon, lopmon, daisuke motomiya | pairings ; slight wallace x daisuke (if you squint), mentioned takeru x hikari, mentioned taichi x sora, mentioned yamato x mimi | genre ; friendship | word count ; 3,598 | rating ; g

Terriermon and Lopmon were enjoying the company of their fellow digimons. They told each other stories, laughed, and even played a little. At some point, they fell asleep next to each other after consuming most of the food and drinks that Miyako had brought for them for the day. Terriermon had his head rested against Chibimon who was snoring softly while Lopmon was a few inches away from them.

The Chosen Children were gathered around in a circle, sans Ken who had told them that he would be late but promised to come as soon as he could. He mentioned something about helping his mom with some gift-giving in an orphanage.

“So, Wallace,” Daisuke started, his head turned to him. “Since when did you like coming here to Japan?” It made him suspicious as he remembered that Wallace had kissed Hikari once. He kissed her cheek, and Miyako’s as well, but it was still a kiss. “Are you here for anyone in particular?” But Daisuke also knew he was in denial about the fact that Hikari and Takeru had had some sort of unspoken romantic feelings for one another. “I heard there are more women in New York.” 

Wallace shrugged, simply ignoring Daisuke’s obvious accusations. “It’s a nice place to be in during the holidays. The spirit of Christmas is really taken seriously. Back in New York, people tend to be busy and get caught up with one another.”

“Looks like New York isn’t as cool as people say it is,” Iori said. “I’ve always thought it was a white Christmas there.”

Wallace nodded. “It sounds nice and it looks nice when you see it on tv and the movies but it isn’t spectacular or anything.”

“Nothing for you is ever spectacular,” Daisuke muttered. This made Hikari nudge him without much force and in turn made Takeru chuckle. “Either way, I’m glad you're here, Wallace. It’s been a while and I actually do miss you.”

Wallace’s eyes widened and his eyebrows raised. “You miss me?” he echoed. For him, that was a first for someone. “You. Miss me? You?”

“Am I not allowed to?” Daisuke raised an eyebrow.

Wallace smirked.

Daisuke narrowed his eyes. “Don’t push it.”

Miyako laughed. “Don’t mind him, Daisuke. It’s just Wallace being Wallace.”

“You don’t know much about me,” the American-raised boy defended. It was an absolute surprise to hear that from someone he had not had much interaction with in a while. “How could you say that?”

“We know enough,” Takeru spoke. “Like how you consider us as your friends. After all, you accepted our invitation to this gathering.”

Wallace did not reply. His mind was wondering how this group of friends suddenly thought that they were somehow close. It was not as if he did not like the group, he liked them a lot, especially after they helped him with Kokomon. But he needed to figure out how to handle this.

Hikari smiled at him. “Onee-san is throwing a surprise birthday party for Sora-san the day after tomorrow. You should go, it’d be really fun. We’ll be there, and I’m sure Terriermon and Lopmon would enjoy the company of being with more of their friends.”

“I’ll think about it,” he replied, still a little lost in thought. This invitation to her future sister-in-law’s surprise birthday party was, for him, a big step. He had not known much about them, yet they were thinking highly of him here.

What went into his head when he called Daisuke Motomiya yesterday to tell him that he was in the country, visiting for the holiday and seeing the sights with his mom.

He had called his home’s telephone, which made him feel anxious because he was not so sure what to say if it had been someone else who would answer. Luckily, it was Daisuke who took the call right away.

Was it because he was indebted? Because they helped him get Kokomon back? He did not think so, it could be more than that.

Just then, the door of Daisuke’s room opened and Ken appeared with Wormmom beside him. “I’m sorry for being late,” he said, bowing.

“Ken!” Miyako grinned. “The food’s almost gone, help yourself to what’s left, Wormmon.”

Ken chuckled nervously. “I’m sorry, Wormmon. I’m sure there’s still some good food somewhere there.”

“Of course! I always choose the best of the best,” Miyako said proudly.

Wallace watched as Ken walked from the door and sat down in between Miyako and Iori. They had briefed him of the former Digimon Kaiser. He felt the anger boil inside him as they told him the story, how could someone do that to digimons?

But they had assured him that Ken had changed and was very much on their side. He was a little skeptical, and truth be told he still was, but he told himself to watch out for Ken before he could make his final judgment.

“Hello,” Ken greeted. “You must be Wallace.”

He nodded. “Yeah. And you’re Ken, right? Ken Ichijouji?”

Ken nodded. “It’s a pleasure to meet you,” he said, raising his hand.

Wallace blinked a few times before shaking his hand. “And it’s great to finally meet you.”

“Ken!” Wormmom called him. “This is Terriermon and Lopmon!”

The group all turned back. Ken had a smile on his face. “I hope Wormmon treats you well.”

“Hey!”

Everyone laughed.

Iori said, “Try the new chocolate drink, Wormmon. I told Armadimon to hide one for you.”

“Here it is!” Armadimon held up the box.

“Thank you, Iori and Armadimon,” Wormmon said happily as he began to consume the drink.

Wallace watched as they looked at the worm-like digimon drink. Despite what had happened before, they welcomed Ken with open arms. It might take a while but he hoped he would fully forgive Ken and replace the thought of the poor digimons with happier faces. It sounded easier in thought but perhaps interacting with him more will be good for them both.

“This is so good, Miyako!” Wormmon exclaimed. He then dug into some snacks. “It's a good thing I didn’t eat before coming here.”

Wallace laughed. “That’s true, the food you brought really did make me feel full.”

Miyako grinned again. “I told you all! Wallace does like Japanese food.”

“Then I’m sure you’ll like the food that will be prepared for the party,” Hikari stated, smiling. “Please come.”

“I’ll think about it,” he repeated. But to be honest, he was very keen on going. “I’ll have to ask Terriermon and Lopmon first,” he added. “And my mom, of course.”

“Yes!” Terriermon and Lopmon shouted at the same time.

Hikari giggled. “I hope your mom says yes, Wallace.”

‘I hope so, too,’ he thought. He smiled at them. “Yeah, let’s see.” 

On the way back to the hotel, Wallace carried Lopmon as Terriermon sat on his favorite spot, Wallace’s head. Wallace had not spoken to either of them as they walked. This did not go unnoticed by his digimon partners.

Both Terriermon and Lopmon were looking at their human partner, then they would look at each other, then back at Wallace, and then make eye contact again, and the cycle repeated a few more times before both sighed.

“What’s got you thinking?” Lopmon asked, looking up at his partner. He touched his cheek and patted it a few times. “You’ve been quiet since we left Daisuke’s house.” He tilted his head. “Don’t tell me you didn’t have fun, Wallace. I know you did, everyone could see it.”

Wallace sighed and looked down at the brown digimon. “I’m just wondering about the party they invited me to. Invited us to.”

“What about it?” Terriermon questioned. “You want to go, don’t you? I saw the way you smiled, you seem excited about it.”

“I do,” he admitted. “I do want to go and it does seem pretty exciting.” But as they left the Motomiya residence, he had a sudden reflection about the other Chosen Children. “But what about the others? I don’t know much about them, they don’t know much about me. I’ll feel left out.” He was never really scared of being alone, but he found this situation different. Maybe because they all had something in common. “I don’t think it’d be fun if that was the case.”

Terriermon and Lopmon looked at each other.

“We’re sure Daisuke won’t leave you alone,” Terriermon said. “And neither will the others.”

“You can’t be sure,” Wallace said.

“Sure we’re sure,” Lopmon said. “They like you, Wallace. They won’t let you feel left out. I’m sure they’ll even introduce you to the others.”

Wallace bit his bottom lip. “I’ll ask Mom if we can go. It won’t be until the day after tomorrow, I don’t think it’ll be too sudden.”

“And besides, your mom will be happy you have friends here,” Lopmon added and Terriermon nodded in agreement.

That made Wallace smile. “Yeah, I think she will be.”

“Cheer up, Wallace.” Terriermon smiled. “I’m sure everyone will be glad if you go.”

He nodded. “Let’s go ask Mom then.”

Both Terriermon and Lopmon grinned. “Yay!” they exclaimed.

“You two do seem so excited about this,” Wallace said, chuckling.

“We want to see you happy,” Lopmon told him. “And we’re glad that you have friends here.”

Wallace smiled and nodded. Then, it dawned on him that in a few days, before Christmas day, he would have to leave the country and head back to New York. He had not told them this—they had not asked—but he would have to soon and it made him feel sad knowing that he would leave them behind. “Just when things were brightening up,” he murmured.

“What was that?” the two digimons asked in unison. “What did you say?”

Wallace shook his head. “It’s not something I want to talk about right now, and I don’t want to think about it yet either. Let’s just enjoy the rest of our stay here while we can. Japan is a nice place, let’s not ruin the vacation. Okay?”

The two digimons looked at each other for a few seconds before nodding as they shifted their eyes to Wallace. “Okay.”

As Wallace and the twins expected, his mother was very happy that he had made friends. “I didn’t expect this,” she admitted.

“They’re the same friends I told you about before,” he said. “I…missed them.”

“Is that why you wanted to come here for the holiday?”

Wallace nodded slowly.

His mother grinned. “I’m glad you’re finally letting yourself out there.” Then she tilted her head. “But how did you find them?”

“I asked for help from Mimi-san,” he answered. “You remember her.”

“Oh yes, that pretty girl you met back home.” She smiled.

“She’s in a relationship,” he immediately said, knowing where that smile was headed.

She giggled. “Alright then. When is the party again?”

“The day after tomorrow,” he replied. “A lot of people will be there. My friends and their older brothers and their friends as well. And Terriermon and Lopmon’s friends, too.”

“My, isn’t that a big party,” his mother said. “And you don’t know the others?” Wallace shook his head. “You won’t feel out of place?” Again, he shook his head. “You won’t be in the corner alone?” He let out a soft chuckle before shaking his head once more. He was suddenly so sure, surprisingly, that he would not be left alone by the group. Terriermon and Lopmon really do have an effect on him. “But you’ll have fun, won’t you?”

“I will,” he assured. “I know I will.” He knew very well that he would have a lot of fun. ‘I know I will,’ he repeated in his head. ‘I know I will.’

“That’s good. That’s all I needed to hear.” His mom grinned. “So what’s the theme? What will you wear? We’ll need to make a good impression on them. I know how you can be, Wallace.”

He rolled his eyes. “It’s like you have no faith in me.” His mother frowned. “I don’t know much. I’ll call Daisuke and ask for more information.”

“Okay. But remember to just tell me if you need anything. Anything at all.”

“Yes, Mom.” He smiled.”You’re just as excited as Terriermon and Lopmon.”

“We’re just very happy for you, Wallace.” His mother leaned to kiss his forehead. “My sweet boy, I’m really happy for you.”

“Thanks, Mom.”

When she straightened her body, she added, “I would very much like to meet your friends one day. Maybe invite them after the party. Perhaps the next day or the day after that?”

Wallace nodded. “Yeah, I’ll ask them. Will you be cooking?” He had always loved his mom’s cooking and was very proud of how others liked them as well.

“Of course, I need to make a good impression on them, too.”

They both laughed.

The day of the party had arrived and Wallace was quite nervous about it. He had kept himself composed and ready for the event the past day but he did not think about what would happen as he was on the way to the Takenouchi residence.

“Aren’t you excited?” Terriermon asked cheerily.

“I am!” Lopmon answered. “What about you, Wallace?”

Wallace put on a smile. “I am. I am excited. But I’m a little nervous, but I guess that’s a normal thing to feel when you’re about to meet a bunch of new people.”

Lopmon nodded. “Don’t worry, you’ve got us. We can leave anytime you want.”

“Thanks, guys.”

They continued to walk and then finally arrived at the condominium. As they entered, having made sure that Terriermon and Lopmon had returned to playing as stuffed animals, he walked to the receptionist and informed them that he was there for the surprise party in the apartment of the Takenouchis.

Just as the receptionist gave him the floor and room number, an unfamiliar voice called his name. “Wallace?”

He turned around and recognized the man in front of him. “Koushiro.”

The redhead smiled at him, his digimon partner in his arms. “That’s me.” He walked closer to Wallace and stopped just a few inches away from him. “Takeru-kun said you would come.”

“I was a little hesitant,” he lied, not wanting to sound too eager. “But I thought it would be fun to make new friends and, you know, hang out with them.”

“I’m glad you think so. I’m sure Taichi-san and the others would love to meet you. Mimi-chan is here already. I know you two are acquainted with one another.”

“Yes,” he said. “We met in New York one time, she recognized my partners.”

Koushiro nodded. “This is Tentomon.” Then he paused. “Let’s get going,” he said as he looked around the lobby. There were not many people but they still had to be careful.

The two, with their partners, rode the elevator going up. Wallace was getting a little more nervous now. He got a warm welcome from Koushiro, yes, but what about the others?

‘What’s got you hot and bothered by this, Wallace?’ he questioned himself. ‘This shouldn’t keep you on your toes.’

“They’re really nice,” Koushiro said, as if reading his mind. “My friends are really nice. You don’t have to worry about them. Not even Yamato-san can ruin your mood.”

“What do you mean?”

Koushiro smiled. “He’s been a handful before, but he’s become very mellow over the past few years. He smiles a lot more, too, ever since he started dating Mimi-chan.”

Wallace looked at him.

“I didn’t read your mind, if that’s what you’re thinking,” Koushiro added with a soft chuckle. “I just saw it in your body language.”

Wallace raised his eyebrows. He was always so calm, not once had he shown people his true thoughts and feelings. How did Koushiro know about this?

“I was like you before, back when I was young. Even before I met Taichi-san and the others. I hid myself behind my laptop, not once showing emotions. But when I started hanging out with them…it felt good, it felt nice. I felt like I belonged. That’s how great they are.” Koushiro looked at him. “Chosen Child or not, they’re nothing to be afraid of.”

Wallace grinned. “Thank you.”

They reached their floor and they quickly walked to the apartment. Not everyone was there yet but when Daisuke saw that Wallace had arrived, he grinned and walked over to him. “You came! You’re here!” 

Terriermon and Lopmon grinned as well. “Are the others here, too?” Terriermon asked.

“Of course,” Daisuke answered. “They’re at the back.”

Terriermon and Lopmon leaped from Wallace’s arms and ran down the hallway.

“They’re excited,” Koushiro said as he let Tentomon fly away. “I’ll catch up with you guys later.”

Wallace gave him a nod while Daisuke’s eyes followed Koushiro’s steps. When he was in the kitchen, Daisuke grabbed Wallace’s wrist and dragged him to the living room. “You have to meet Taichi-san!”

Wallace’s heartbeat raced. He was about to meet the highly talked about Taichi Yagami.

They stopped in front of a young man whom Wallace knew all too well just basing it on pictures. “Taichi-san!” Daisuke greeted. Taichi looked back and gave Daisuke a questioning look before looking at Wallace. “Taichi-san, this is Wallace.”

“Oh, so you’re the Wallace Hikari-chan talked about.” He raised his hand and said, “Taichi.”

“It’s so great to finally meet you.”

Meanwhile, in the background, they ignored Daisuke’s question about Hikari talking about Wallace to her older brother.

“Sora will be here soon, I suggest you find a place to hide. Daisuke can lead you around. I’ll get to know you more later, alright?”

Wallace nodded. “Okay.”

Daisuke narrowed his eyes. “Hikari-chan talks about you.”

Wallace could not help but laugh. “Let’s find a place now. As Taichi said, Sora will be here soon.”

The surprise party was a success. Sora arrived with her mom and was shocked to see her friends surrounding her and shouting “happy birthday”.

Sora’s eyes teared up but she was smiling from ear to ear. “And I wonder who came up with the idea,” she said, giggling.

Taichi went up to her and intertwined his fingers with hers. “Take a wild guess.”

She giggled some more and gave her fiancé a kiss and everyone clapped. Then, Sora went over to hug and thank everyone in the room, including Wallace.

“It’s very nice to meet you,” she said when she stopped over to hug and thank him. “I’ve heard good things about you.”

For some reason, that made Wallace’s cheek turn pink. “I hope so.”

Sora smiled.

The party was still in full swing—that is, everyone was chatting with each other and the food and drinks needed refilling—when Wallace headed over to the balcony for some fresh air. He was just overwhelmed with how friendly the others were, how they welcomed him with open arms, and how comfortable he was with them. He hated that he would be leaving soon.

He has instructed Terriermon and Lopmon to play with the other digimons as he wanted to be alone for a while. The twin digimons seemed to have sensed it as they did not object to the request.

Just then, someone stood beside him, holding up two drinks, and offering one to him. Wallace did not bother to look up as he took the cup, he was actually thirsty but was not yet ready to go back inside. “Thank you.”

“If you just want to stay silent that’s fine with me, but let me stay here with you for a bit.”

Wallace nodded. “The party’s a success.” He looked back at the gathering behind him and then back to the horizon. “Taichi really loves her.”

“He does,” Daisuke said. “They’re in love.”

“How are you and Hikari?”

Daisuke sighed. “I’ll give up soon enough. She and Takeru have a lot of stuff going on, going around each and all. They have a history. They have the present. And,” he paused. Wallace could see how heartbroken Daisuke was about this. “And they have a future.”

Wallace pursed his lips. “There’s someone else out for you, I promise.” He placed a hand on Daisuke’s shoulder and rubbed it. “I know it.”

Daisuke smiled. “Thanks, Wallace. You’re a good friend, you know that?” He raised his hand and rubbed Wallace’s shoulder. “I know Mimi-san is missing a lot.”

Wallace shook his head. “Why does everyone think I’m into Mimi?”

“Uh, because it’s obvious? The way you keep looking at her? The way Yamato-san looks as if he’s about to start a fight soon.”

Wallace felt like he was shrinking. “I didn’t notice.”

Daisuke laughed. “Anyway.” He regained his composure. “I don’t want to ask but it’s bound to happen. When are you leaving?”

“Three days from now,” he answered, his head bowed down. “I don’t wanna leave,” he admitted. “I’m…having a good time.”

Daisuke nodded. “Yeah, I know you are.”

They stayed quiet until Daisuke ended it by asking, “What do you want for Christmas?”

Wallace cocked his head to the side. “What?”

“What do you want for Christmas?” Daisuke repeated. “You’re leaving three days before Christmas Day and I want to give you something before we part ways.”

Wallace was silent. Then, he took out his phone and handed it over to the man in front of him. “Can you give me your email?”

“My email?” Daisuke echoed.

“Yeah,” Wallace nodded, “I’d really like it if we talked some more. Even when I’m back in the US, I want to be able to communicate with you guys properly.”

Daisuke grinned. “You read my mind.”

[that-wildwolf]

Get to know your fanfic writer!

Thank you @callista-curations for tagging me!

When did you post your first ever fanfic?

Circa 2008 I think. Let me tell you those were the wild days. FF.n wasn't really that popular and AO3 straight up didn't exist yet. You would make a whole ass entire blog. And you would post your fic on that blog. And people actually found that shit???? Wouldn't work now.

First Character(s) you wrote?

OCs actually, in the PJO fandom. I don't really enjoy writing OCs now but that's what was cool back then 😅 The first canon characters I wrote were Sarah Jane and the Doctor from Doctor Who.

Main Character(s) you're currently writing?

Well I've always got that Shakarian brainrot, don't I? Also like. Saren and Nihlus I guess.

Character(s) you haven't written about before but plan to soon?

Jolyne and Jotaro Kujo! I've still lowkey got that Eyes of Heaven brainrot, and isn't it cool to write characters that are biologically parent and child as having a sibling relationship, but I'm aware that the target audience of that fic would be uh. me. so I'm not in a rush.

Fandom(s) you're currently writing?

It's mostly mass effect. Even the WIPs I have of other fandoms are scarce among my mass effectses.

Platonic Pairing(s) you're currently writing?

Jotaro and Jolyne, definitely. Shepard and Saren is always a lot of fun to write, though my Kryterius fic mostly focuses on Shepard and Nihlus. Also fun, but not as much.

Romantic Pairing(s) you're currently writing?

Shakarian and Kryterius. I mean what did you expect? a magic trick?

Your top AO3 tags?

Interspecies Relationship(s) absolutely sweeping at 32 fics. Followed by Fluff (19 fics) and Post-Canon (18 fics). Like I said I have no idea where this idea that I'm an angst writer came from, I'm all about the fluff--

Current platform you use for posting?

I guess I might as well officially say that since finishing up my first contact Shakarian AU two years ago, I am no longer posting my fics on FF.n anymore. It's all AO3 now.

Snippet of the WIP you are currently working on?

"Saren." Nihlus is immediately at his side, one hand on his cowl and another grabbing his good arm. "Saren, you're not going to die. I'm getting you out of here. I swear."

"Shepard will never allow that."

"She doesn't have a say in this. You're my responsibility." Nihlus nearly growls at the thought of anyone getting in the middle of that. After everything he's done, the Council will have to agree if he asks. Damn what Shepard thinks. "She doesn't have the authority."

"Nihlus..." Saren shakes his head at him. His subvocals, as always, remain infuriatingly silent, but Nihlus has learned to read his body language to make up for that. He doesn't like what he's seeing: Saren's eyes are completely vacant of any emotion and his shoulders drooped. There's nothing left in him, no fight, no hope. He's given up already.

And that's something Nihlus can't accept.

“I’m getting you out of here,” he promises again. This time, he receives absolutely no reaction.

It nearly breaks his heart to leave now, but he has to. He has to get Saren out of this as quickly as possible, he can’t allow this to go on. So he quietly slips out, silently hoping that Saren isn’t looking. He wouldn’t bear to have that hopeless gaze on himself right now.

Shepard is waiting for him just outside the holding cells. Of course she is. Nihlus doubts she would ever allow anyone to make a decision about Saren that she didn't approve, or at least know, of.

Which is probably going to make things very difficult for him from now on.

"You can release him," he says simply.

Shepard, to her credit, doesn’t say a word. She just looks at him like he's just done the worst thing she could imagine. In all honesty, the flicker of rage, disappointment, and disapproval that lit up her eyes almost made him pause.

She slowly shakes her head and walks away without as much as a single look back. Nihlus isn’t sure how he feels about that.

He just hopes he hasn't just made an enemy he won’t be able to deal with later on.

Tagging (but you guys know my tags are no pressure. I won't be upset if you don't do it.) @whiskynorocks @milkywayes and @nicolasadrabbles

[livingincolorsagain]

hello dear! so for the asks game:

1. My favorite fic of yours: favorite choices and rough surfaces

2. My favorite chapter in my favorite fic of yours: a close call but chapter 4 of careless whisper has my heart

3. The best character you've written for: sam and bucky I'm not choosing. you write them both perfectly

4. The best ship you've written for: sambucky duh

5. A fic I haven't read yet from you, but I want to: none obviously. (can you say the same, a? can you?)

6. Something I remember vividly from reading one of your fics: TOO MUCH. bucky's monolgue from ch4, they chase the sun like i chase you sunshine, it was dangerous, they both have their scars, sam stopped caring about those a long time ago. how do you think i notice all those little recurring details

7. What made me the most emotional after reading: I don't recall exactly the chapter but you should. it's the careless whisper chapter thay physically pained me I couldn't reread it again immediately. also ch4 again and deadly kiss. you make me cry a lot a

8. What I like the most about your writing: man i fucking love it all. your attention to details, your descriptions, your poetic lines. your deep understanding of the characters, how you say soo much with one simple line. how you set the scene wonderfully, foreshadowings and callback. i love everything

9. A fic i'm excited for you updating/posting: obviously careless whisper

10. A character/ship I didn't enjoy/think about as much before you wrote about them: sarahrhoedy. i never even considered the possibility but now they consumed me

11. Something I wish/hope you write: god I hope you don't take this as pressure but it's gotta be the soulmates au

12. A fic of yours that i've re-read: so many deadly kiss, i replay every embrace, I'm blanking but you know the ones. i think i reread most of them anyway

13. If i've ever shared/talked about your fic to someone else: to anyone who'd listen. uhh i think i did before yes

14. A fic I didn't expect to like so much: favorite choices obviously. and you know why! but dammit that fic is a masterpiece and i adore it so much. made me tear up

15. Aquestion I have about one of your fics: hmmm I always ask the questions as soon as i think of them. let's seeee. do you think you'll make a playlist for careless whisper and share it with us? both songs you used as titles and ones that remind you of it.

okay that's it now if there are typos ignore them im sleepy. byeee <3

hey! hello! omg! I can’t believe you answered all of them omg 😭

not even gonna tag the fics because that’s basically all of them, so instead gonna tag my ao3.

from this list

I don’t even know what to say, I just keep rereading every answer and beaming. Gonna try to say something anyway tho!

2. Chapter 4 of careless whisper also has my heart. The confrontation scene between Sam and Bucky especially is very important. Also I was really happy with the song choice and how it’s echoed throughout the chapter. (I go back and forth between how I feel about my writing in the chapter, but it’s always special to me and ultimately I’m happy with it)

5. No you can’t say that! Have you read my ronarry stuff? No, you didn’t. (Okay and neither can I, but not the point)

6. gonna cry actually. brb

7. That would be chapter 5! I very vividly remember you reading it for the first time and our very emotional conversation afterwards. (Sorry for making you cry a lot)

8. (another crying break) omg you have no idea how much this means to me. thank you so much baby <333

10. sarahrhodey for the win!

11. one day. i promise. it deserves to see the light of day

14. it’s still absolutely crazy to me how much you like that fic. i didn’t even think you’d read it and you not only read, it’s one of your favourites now. man

15. I think I might, yes. Maybe towards the end.

[practicecourts]

20 questions

thanks @charmsandtealeaves & @wearingaberetinparis for the tag. I'm not sure how interesting the answers will be so I'm cutting the post here ;-)

How many works do you have on AO3? 20

2. What's your total A03 words count? 215,620

3. What fandoms do you write for? HP

4. What are your top 5 fics by kudos?

a) Not the Doctor Crazy texting Muggle AU, oneshot, meet-awkward ridiculousness ;-) b) Head Over Handlebars For You Muggle meet ugly, Amsterdam, bicycles, Geese, the WIP that got out of control, only 1 more real chapter and 1 epilogue to go... c) It Was A Clear Black Night, A Clear White Moon - Hogwarts, oneshot roaming outside the castles on a Full Moon. I do love this story a lot myself, so I'm happy to see it here! I like to combine something serious and with something lighter. d) Shall We Shag Now Or Later? Rated M, Not inspired by Austin Powers BUT I did have a great time looking up those ridiculous scenes and dialogues. Classic crazy movie! Order Mission gone wrong, Jily forced to go under cover (wriggles eyebrows) e) When it Tastes so Damn Good another @jilychallenge oneshot, prompt along the lines of melting icecream - let's share... 5. Do you respond to comments? Why or why not?

YES!!! I LOVE comments, incredible to have evidence someone read something I thought up and wrote and then left a comment telling me what it made them feel or just to say they liked it. IT IS AMAZING !! all caps worthy amazing. I do turn of notifications now for those because I became too addicted, so now I try to check once every so often. I do intend to answer all of them.

6. What's the fic you wrote with the angtiest ending? My saddest ending is probably Silent Night (it's not Jily but a series of moments in the life of Hope Lupin) There's quite some bits that I've written for it, but I'm not sure if they are coherent as chapters, so there's only 2 currently posted. Angst versus sad, I'd have to say my microfic Jockey has the angstiest ending, but mostly because I know what is going on) and I promise the end of the whole fic (if I ever get to writing it, won't be angsty)

7. What's the fic you wrote with the happiest ending?

I love happy endings... I'm hoping to succeed with bringing HOH to a satisfactory happy end. I think I will. Most of my one-shots also have a happy or hopeful ending.

8. Do you get hate on fics? No

9. Do you write smut. If so what kind? Ha, I thought I'd never... but for a writing challenge I wanted to join due to severe FOMO (i'm only human) I did, and I rewrote that into Shall we Shag Now or Later (Idk if anyone wants to know but I literally took almost all the time available thinking of REASONS why my jily would end up in smut pall position and in the end joked I'd just start of with *low voice* "Hey, Evans, we should shag," and take it from there... This turned into M-rated smut (I'm a little foggy on the difference between E and M still) also not sure what constitutes *kinds* of smut, but that 2 shot was more Smut with little plot. By now my wip Jily who really suffered from a lot of sexual unreleased tension finally got some release, so there's some Smut with plot as well, these days (HOHFY)

10. Do you write crossovers? What's the craziest one you've written? Nope, I don't think I will (unless a certain type of AU would count as a cross over)

11. Have you ever had a fic stolen?

Nope, not that I'm aware of, I'd be appalled and also absolutely flabbergasted if someone would go to the trouble, tbh.

12. Have you ever had a fic translated? Nope again, I might translate my own fic in Dutch (although that would be so incredibly weird that I don't actually mean this)

13. Have you ever cowritten a fic before? No, but it sounds fun. I am soon adding my 3 line to the express.... there's that ;-)

14. What's your all-time favourite ship? Jily, lames, Limes. 15. What's a WIP you want to finish, but doubt you ever will?

Life's a beach and then you dive. I want to rewrite it. I've again not outlined this fic very much, but I've so many plans... Maybe, I should ideally have a time turner to add a few hours to my days. bc I now realise how much work it would need to write it up how I want it to be lol. But there's some very personal stuff in there so who knows. I do like to finish stuff that I've started so... I hope i will, i'm not sure of it.

16. What are your writing strengths? Ok, disclaimer as I'm Dutch I'm very bad at this. BUT ... channeling inner Sirius Black: I'm good at making characters feel realistic, I'm good a little plot twist at the end, at humour (which is of course entirely personal) , I'm good at sneaky throwbacks to canon, I'm relatively good at looking at my own work with a critical eye and improving myself, as well as letting go of things that are * good enough* as they are, as this is * a fun hobby* (anyone want to share what they like about my writing - or what they think I could improve on, tell me in the comments )

17. What are your writing weaknesses?

Thinking I'll do more in the time I have... and not outlining, I've tried honestly, but I've not found a way that really works yet, but still I have these huge fic ideas creep up on me, so Ideally I'd like to get way better at following some sort of outline instead of discovering my way through it.

18. Thoughts on writing dialogue in another language for a fic? As I'm not a native English speaker and my fic HOHFY is set partly in Amsterdam there's some Dutch dialogues * i never even bothered to translate them, I'm so sorry. I'm currently also putting some French in my secret finish before posting fic, that will take a while though and it's only tiny bits as it's more the odd word here and there.

19. First fandom you wrote for? I never posted anything for it, but my first fanfic ideas were set in Tortall (Tamora Pierce) who knows, one day I might venture over there.

20. Favourite fic you've ever written? Here Comes The Sun I've recently got a lot of lovely comments on fics that weren't less than a week old (yeah!) and reread this one for Myster May because of it & enjoyed it a lot (idk, I don't do favourites, not really.) But I can see quite a few of my own strengths in this one so I'm putting it up here as a fave.

Tagging if you're not already been asked a million times and feel like doing this, no pressure at all, xx @chierafied @chiechie97 @tiffanytoms @oneofthesirens @suzyq31 @ohmygodshesinsane @jfleamont @uncertainwallflower

[merlyn-bane]

Fic Writer 20 Questions

Thanks for the tag, @frostbitebakery !!🥰🥰🥰

1.) How many works do you have on ao3

35, but that also includes some of pyro's that I'm listed as co on because I helped with so much of the plotting out and behind the scenes stuff

2.) What's your ao3 word count?

336,631

3.) What fandoms do you write for?

Right now primarily Star Wars bc that's where my brainrot is, but I've been known to play around in a few other sandboxes. There are a few Star Trek fics on my AO3 as well, and there's a multifandom xreader sideblog floating around somewhere that I am not going to tag because I consider it a Different Era and not reflective of the work I'm doing now. Even though I'm STILL getting notes on a Wolverine smut fic I posted all the way back in 2018.

4.) What are your top five fics by kudos?

Foelu

SubObi Week Day Five

SubObi Week Day One

SubObi Week Day Four

SubObi Week Day Six

(Foelu is leading by A Margin in basically everything but hits now, it's insane)

5.) Do you respond to comments? Why or why not?

I try to! And I'm usually pretty good at it. Sometimes I'm really not sure what to say and sometimes I get kind of overwhelmed so not always, but I do try. I'm super behind on Foelu atm bc you all continue to just blow me away with the support on that one, but I promise I'm planning to sit down and try to get caught up soon.

6.) What's the fic you wrote with the angstiest ending?

Angsty endings aren't super my thing, to be honest. Most of the things I've actually finished have happy endings, just because that's my personal preference. Most of my angst is in the middle, and I'd say probably the angstiest fic I have (at least right now) is Traveling Song. Ari has...been through it. It used to be a whole lot worse before the first rewrite happened though.

7.) What's the fic you wrote with the happiest ending?

Idk, maybe the Obi-Wan Omegaverse series I did for SubObi Week?

8.) Do you get hate on fics?

Not yet, here's to hoping that doesn't change anytime soon.

9.) Do you write smut? If so what kind?

Oh, yes. All sorts of it 😈😈

10.) Do you write crossovers? What's the craziest one you've written?

Crossovers have never super been my thing, so no, not really.

11.) Have you ever had a fic stolen?

Not that know of, again, hoping it stays that way.

12.) Have you ever had a fic translated?

Not yet, I think, but I have had one or two podfic'ed!

13.) Have you ever cowritten a fic before?

I'm listed as a co-author on @pyromanicdaydreamer 's The Moments In Between since I helped with so much of the development for it (what can I say, I'm an ideas guy if I'm anything), but I've never really co-written anything, as far as the actual words and stuff.

14.) What's your all time favorite ship?

I'm mentally ill about Codywan in a way I've never really been before or since, to be honest. They're my special little guys. Also, though, Octavious and Jedidiah from Night At The Museum, Obviously.

15.) What's a WIP you'd like to finish, but doubt you ever will?

Oh, so many.

16.) What are your writing strengths?

I think the most consistent feedback I've gotten is that my character work and humor are good, which does just make me feel real nice because characterization is something I worry about.

17.) What are your writing weaknesses?

I am a total slave to the muse, my WIP graveyard is sprawling. I do think I could stand to be a little more descriptive at times, and I'm never going to claim that an English teacher wouldn't cry at some of my grammar. I'm a lot more concerned with how things sound than if they're technically correct.

18.) Thoughts on writing dialogue in another language for a fic?

It's one of those things that's dependent on the characters, but when appropriate I do think it can add more depth. It also just makes sense for some characters--for example, you can be on either side of the clones-being-Mandalorian debate, but picking up another language from the trainers that the Kaminoans and likely their future generals don't know could only be in their best interest strategically.

19.) First fandom you wrote for?

Marvel I think. Pyro and I wrote a bunch of OC stuff in the 2012 era, and I think one of my very first ones was a Thor x OC that might even still be on ff.net.

20.) Favorite fic you've ever written?

Oh fuck. Uh. C'mon, man, this is like asking me to choose a favorite child. Shit. Um. I don't know if it's my favorite, but They Told Me I Couldn't Bag A Jedi was a lot of fucking fun to work on.

I think I'm gonna tag @ferretrade @goddammitjim @shootingstarpilot @bluemaskedkarma @brigittttoo

[laurelwinchester]

Fic: How the Light Gets In (Dean Winchester/Laurel Lance)

Wow, am I ever late with this update!

Literally it's 1am. I probably should have just waited until tomorrow to post this. But it's been such a long wait! I've made some changes to the overall structure of HTLGI, so unfortunately this chapter took much longer than I wanted it to. Plus, I made an attempt to write this chapter and the next chapter at the same time and, um… I will not be doing that again lol. That was not the time saver I, for whatever reason, thought it would be.

Additional warnings for this chapter: Vomit. Like, a lot of vomit. I'm sorry. I promise I'll stop that soon. I don't know why this keeps happening? Frank discussions of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, and suicide. Additional spoilery warnings can be found inside at the bottom of the chapter.

Also.

I'm sorry for the opening scene of this chapter. Except also I'm not sorry at all.

.

Chapter Twenty One

You Will Always Be in Your Mother's House

.

''Daddy…''

At first, the small voice, nearly a whisper, is what drags him out of the fog of slumber. The voice is muffled and tinny sounding, garbled over the sound of white noise filtering through the monitor on the bedside table, but it still catches his attention. It hooks onto him in his sleep and pulls him out from under.

Then it's the sound of static that yanks him full force back into consciousness, a strange buzzing noise that grows louder and louder and louder still, much louder than it should be.

''Daddy,'' Mary's voice hisses, and Dean's eyes snap open in the dark.

A second of groggy confusion and then he lifts his head up to look at the baby monitor, frowning at the static coming from it. He blearily rubs at his tired eyes and pushes himself up enough to turn on the lamp. ''Laurel?'' He reaches out, an instinct, to where his wife should be, but his hand finds only air and a cold pillow on the other side of the bed.

He blinks to clear his sleep blurred vision. He looks at the empty spot she has not slept in. Something curls in his gut, a feeling of sickness, something halfway between anger and concern, and he can't remember why. It's familiar, but he doesn't know where it's coming from. Can't quite fit the puzzle pieces together. Eventually, he shakes it off.

It doesn't strike him as important in the moment.

He pulls back the covers, and rises to his feet, scratching absently at the shoulder of his white t-shirt. He steps out of the bedroom and into the still lit hallway, avoiding the creaky floorboards on autopilot as he trudges over to Mary's room, trying to remember what time it was when he gave her that last dose of Tylenol.

Mary's door, left open a crack, groans when he pushes it open and Dean finds himself stopping short in the doorway, looking at a shadowy figure standing over his daughter, a tiny bundle of blankets in her bed, seemingly fast asleep despite the whines that have woken him up. There is a second of panic, a shot of adrenaline, and his body tenses.

But it's just a second.

The shape of the silhouette is familiar, the way her hair falls, the curve of her fingers, and he relaxes. He lets down his guard. ''Laur?'' His voice is a thick, sleep encrusted whisper. ''Is she okay?''

She turns her head, only a little, not enough to see her face, bringing a finger to her lips. ''Sshh.''

He raises an eyebrow at the dismissal, but relents. He figures it's fine. She is her mother, after all, and he is exhausted after a long day of toddler sickness, so he lets it go. She can handle whatever is thrown her way. ''Okay.'' He hesitates, but ultimately turns to walk away. He leaves Mary with her mother, safe.

Down the hallway, the light fixture on the wall beside the door to his bedroom flickers.

Read more on AO3

Or start from the beginning

[zimithrus1]

For the Fanfiction Writing Asks... I'm kind of cheating due to low spoons, sorry:

80: please answer 1 to 5 of the other 79 questions, choosing the ones you'd rather talk about today? 😅

Asks List

Cheat all you need to with low spoons, I've been there am there 💚 But also thank you for the versatility~ This is a little long so I'll add a read more option. Let's see...

7. Post a snippet from a wip With Barnaby’s portions in hand, Kotetsu carefully steps out of the kitchen, walking into the living room with a soft smile on his face. He sets the bowl down against a small coffee table just a few feet away from the couch. (Also bought on one of Kotetsu’s mentions).

“Here you go, baby bunny.” He softly says as he sets the water down next to it.

A flush of red on Barnaby’s face from the extra sweet term of endearment. “Thank you.” He says in despite of that coyness.

“Of course.” Kotetsu smiles. “Here, let me…”

He trails off, but when Barnaby shifts ever so slightly, he’s already on the move to help him reposition himself. With how his partner had his leg clutched, he’s obviously in pain, and moving himself around too much makes it flare up worse. Though with someone to help, it eases the strain. (Coming soon to an ao3 account near you lol! 😂)

13. Do you listen to music while you write? If yes, what have you been listening to recently? It varies, but more often than not I've got something playing to keep me from getting too distracted. I tend to put on songs without words, or songs that I've heard over and over and haven't gotten sick of yet. Lately when I've been writing, due to my faltering mentality, I've been listening to this and this to keep me both distracted and focused as possible. 🎧

22. Do you title your fics before, during, or after the writing process? How do you come up with titles? 95% percent of the time I come up with the tile before I even start writing. It's hard for me to start if I don't have a good title. I can think of an idea, flesh it out in my head, but until I come up with a title it stays there lol! I come up with titles from songs, not-so-common words, or smashing two words or things together. It varies depending on the idea.

34. How much personal/life experience do you include in your fics? A lot. Writing is usually how I process a lot of thoughts and feelings I don't normally allow myself to have or act on. Or its experiences I want to have, or things I was denied when I was younger that I can give myself through words now. Maybe even just to think 'wouldn't it be fucked up if this happened??' and going with it lol 😂

45. What genre/trope do you tend to write the most? My go-to trope is tied between hurt/comfort and fluff and my go-to trope is friends to lovers. Hurt/comfort has always been a good push and pull for me. I love writing how characters would react/act to bad/painful/stressful situations, and when the tension dies down, having something or someone warm, soft and comforting waiting to help pick them back up. And fluff is just, so sweet and fun to write. I've always had a knack for the cute, fun stuff in writing and art. Just makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside hearing it. Ties in very well with hurt/comfort too, like an extra layer of glue. 👌 And friends to lovers has always been a thing I've gravitated towards even as a child. Mainly based on my own experiences. When watching movies, reading books and playing games I always thought 'how could someone just fall for someone they don't even know? I wish X went for their best friend, they've known each other for so long! It seems unfair!' (might've been the demi/ace in me too lol 🖤🤍💜) There's a connection between friends, especially friends that grew up together. They've seen the other through every stage of their life, shared secrets and late nights and pinkie promises, adventures and heartaches all the same - I always thought what's more intimate and special for a partner than that? 💗

Long rambles jeeze lol though I do love these little ask games, I get so eager to share 😆 Thank you very much for the ask, and sorry it took a little while to get to - I apparently had a lot I wanted to blab about 😂 Take care~ 💚

[vaenevolence]

Reigniting a Spark

(Very long post ahead, skip to bottom if you're only interested in Hiatus explanation)

Note: This post is specifically for my long-time readers

----------

Hey there! This is Vaeryn, it's nice to see you here!

A Very Big Thank You

If you're here reading this, it's safe to assume that you've been following my BenneFischl fic as it is currently being written and updated on Ao3. Before I say anything else, I would like to say thank you in every possible way for supporting this project of mine. There truly are no words to describe how much all the love you give means to me.

I am making this post because there will be a lot of changes moving forward and I want to share them with you!!

The Origin Story™

I started writing Etched in Fire and Lightning about a year and a half ago for an awfully simple reason: I was starved for some BenneFischl content but there's not much abundance of it in the genshin fandom. And so I took matters into my own hands and cooked a massive 12-chapter longfic featuring one of my favorite ships in the game. Originally I was planning a one-shot fluff smut fic but my ego said: "really? your first venture into fanfiction and its a one-shot smut?"

So as you can see, there was also some level of spite involved in the writing of this fic. And yes, this is my first work as a fanfiction writer. I used to be more of a poetry guy so this project was a really big step for me as writer.

I will be taking a much need Hiatus

Yes, I know I know, I'm sorry. But as much as I love this fic, I am admittedly burnt out writing it.

Chapter 6 will for now serve as a mid-point finale of this fic. Admittedly ending on a painful cliffhanger but wrapping up most of the arcs I introduced in the earlier chapters while setting up the rest of the fic to really be about the relationship between Bennett and Fischl.

In the beginning I have promised myself to not work on any other writing project until I am done with EiFaL wanting to be some goody-two-shoes writer who didn't have a million WIPs rotting away in my google drive. But that mindset is currently doing more harm than help.

I want to make it absolutely clear that I not abandoning this fic, I am just taking a break from writing it. I have so many other things I want to write and work on, so many things that I want to share to the world that are being hindered by the toxic promise I made to myself to finish this before anything else.

I'm also taking a break to reevaluate myself as writer and the way I post my work. In case you didn't know Chapters 1 & 4 have received major rewrites and Chapter 2 received a minor rewrite and all other chapters have had minor clean-ups and polishing. This is because I constantly see improvements I can make to the language and storytelling I use in my work. While it is an overall good thing, it comes at the cost of asking my readers (you) to re-read earlier chapters just to make sense of the newer ones (yes the rewrites do affect the story in a noticeable way) and risks confusion if you are unable to read the rewritten chapters. ...so what are my plans?

Change of Pace

Moving forward, there will be an overall slower but more consistent pace with how I will release my works. Currently, I post chapters as soon as they are done, if there are errors or things that need to change, then I do so after a chapter has been posted which is why rewrites have been a big problem. In the future, I will no longer be releasing chapters as soon as they are done and instead wait until I have a few chapters completed and reviewed before I post them all in intervals. This way, you guys will get more consistent content without me being pressured into immediate begin work on a chapter I've just finished one.

----------

And that's about all I have to say to you all. Once again, thank you so much for all the love and support you have given Etched in Fire and Lightning. I truly never expected that I'd be writing something like this. It's been a long and inconsistent journey for both me and you but I hope you stick around while I write the ending this story deserves.

Until the next story,

Vaeryn

[degeneratehourss]

After many years and hundreds of pages worth of fanfiction, I'm excited to announce that I'm opening a Patreon (18+ ONLY)! If you like what I do and enjoy my smut, please consider supporting me <3

There are two tiers, one of which gives you early access while the other gives you a chance to suggest a prompt and if it gets the most likes in the comments, I shall write it (along with a few other benefits)!

I will largely be posting on my patreon the future chapters of my Genshin fics along with new, super smutty stories (One of which is almost over and will be up on my Patreon very soon *cough* kamisatocest *cough*).

This does not mean that my fanfiction will be behind a paywall. I will continue to post my chapters and drabbles for free as usual on AO3 and Tumblr. This is just something extra for those of you who'd like to support me while also getting early access to new chapters (generally two to three weeks before I upload it to AO3), answer polls that will influence next chapters, sneak peeks, random drabbles and pdf file downloads of all chapters.

I am uploading chapters one by one and will be putting them up daily. As of now, I have a few of the Mondstad men's chapters up, a poll as well as a sneak peek for the next Lumine Harem chapter. I'll keep updating regularly and provide you all with the smutty content we all deserve <3

I love writing but what I love more is sharing it with all of you. The feedback and community I feel I have after starting these series have been so lovely and brings me lots of joy and motivates me to continue writing. Please consider supporting me and all the hard work I put into my fics and I promise I won't disappoint <3

(Please consider reblogging as it would help a lot. If you have any questions, feel free to DM me or send in an ask! If you read all the way here, I love you!)