#and she’s already Seen what the military is capable of

[whippedcloudsofcream]

Cate is seriously staring to annoy me. How do you obviously know the US military is shady and violent, but still blame Godzilla for the G-Day disaster?

[beansandsprouts]

Sunshine

Female reader. Sparse use of y/n.

Summary: Growing up, Bucky never thought he'd find his soulmate. Years and years and years of searching. Even Steve had found his. But you were nowhere to be found. Until he was living in the Avengers Tower. Until you happened to join the team.

Warnings: none

Considering making this a series, let me know if you wanna be tagged in the next one. I may consider doing a bit of a rewrite of it all on my other fanfic blog and add in some sweet smut in there. Everything on this blog will be kept mostly PG.

Bucky was irritated. He didn't see why there had to be this big deal about a new team member. And he didn't understand why he had to be there. They hadn't been told much about you. All Tony had said was you were ex-military, and that everyone typically called you Grim. As in Grim Reaper. Bucky had to admit he was curious to know what earned you that nickname.

With a callsign like that, you had to be ruthless. Cold blooded. So he wasn't expecting this cute bubbly thing to practically skip in alongside Tony with a huge grin. Though he could tell that belt buckle you had on was hiding a knife.

He was immediately taken with you. He'd been a heartthrob in his younger years, had no shortage of women throwing themselves at him. Though he hadn't really been with anyone since being freed from Hydra, though he'd seen pretty women. You, however, were completely different.

The warmth of your smile and twinkle in your eyes made his chest warm. He admired the shape of your lips and the way your jaw curved. Even the little glimpse of your collarbone had him tingling with an unfamiliar excitement.

"Alright, everyone this is our new teammate. I'll let you introduce yourself." I gestured for you to step forward.

"Hi, nice to meet you all. Name's y/n but most just call me Grim." You offered a bright smile.

Bucky felt his heart skip a beat when you spoke your name. Hell everytime he heard that name he got his hopes up, and without fail they'd been dashed. There was no way it was you. You were technically a lot younger than him, it'd be ridiculous if you were his soulmate.

Right?

Everyone else immediately greeted you warmly, your sunshiney demeanor immediately brought a feeling of ease to everyone around you. It didn't take long before you and Steve were swapping combat stories. Bucky sat quietly the entire time, taking you in. He was hoping to get a glimpse of your soulmate mark, wondering if it'd be his name written in his messy writing. But your damned long sleeves obscured even the tiniest glimpse of it.

Your laugh was like music to his ears. He felt breathless hearing that beautiful sound and watching the way your face changed. You were gorgeous. Even the way you blinked had him enamored.

He swallowed hard as you giggled and playfully nudged Natasha when she made a joke. You hadn't even directly spoken to him yet and he was already absolutely whipped for you.

After a while, everyone dispersed, and Tony led you to your room. Which coincidentally was right across from Buckys.

He awkwardly stood in his doorway as he watched someone bring two duffels and a box into your room. You didn't have much. He had a feeling you had tactical gear in those duffels and a few sets of fatigues. He had to admit he was a bit surprised considering your bubbly personality. He thought you'd be the type to have a bunch of cutesy clothes to wear when you were off duty. And some pretty things to decorate your room.

Though to be fair you'd basically come straight here from the military. You'd hinted at having enhanced abilities, but Bucky doubted you'd been given the same serum as him or Steve. He had to admit he was excited to see what you were capable of.

You'd dropped the box on your bed and noticed Bucky across the hall.

"Hey! You're Bucky right?"

A bit embarrassed to have been caught watching, he just silently nodded.

"You're also a super soldier, yeah?"

He nodded again and you offered a soft smile.

"Steve's more the talker huh?"

Bucky huffed out a chuckle.

"Definitely." He responded.

It was the first time you'd heard him speak and it sent shivers down your spine and a heat between your legs. He'd caught your eye the moment you entered the common room, and now his room was straight across from his. If you had to describe the situation in one word it'd have to be "fucked." It woukd be heaven and torture to have such a gorgeous man living mere feet away from you.

"Well I look forward to spending more time together. I don't mind silence." You offered a sweet smile. You couldn't help but notice the way his cheeks tinged red at that, which you found incredibly adorable.

This was going to be an interesting experience.

Next Part

[rascal-xo]

What's up! Umm, I got a request another actually ideas be popping in my head. For ghost x reader, where the reader is a world-class boxer and is like undefeated like the reader is pretty much female Mike tyson (BTW if you don't know who Mike tyson is he was pretty much a scary boxer who knocked people ass out , people were scared of him and he bit someone ear off ) and reader is like so deadly in the ring she almost kills someone or gets called this pretty sick nickname and everyone on the task force is afraid of her but ghost being ghost doubts the readers skills and challenges the reader in the ring and gets his ass beaten badly like a REALLY bad broken nose, jaw or like gets his ass knocked out. Just a thought: I hope this is acceptable 🙏. I love your writing.

Sunday Punch | Simon ‘Ghost’ Riley x Female Reader

Chapter summary: You’re a lethal fighter in the ring, and a seasoned soldier in the field. The 141 get front tickets to your underground double life.

Warnings: Fights, bodily injury, blood, language

Tags: @glitteryeggalmondherring @fiveshelmet @madamemelancholysstuff @myguiltypleasure @pukbadger

A/N: Ty for sending in another amazing request! you keep my brain happy lolll 🩷🩷 I hope you enjoy! (It’s a long one i’m sorry LMAO i got carried away)

P.S: Sunday Punch is just another way of saying KnockOut.

It’s no secret that you’re a talented soldier. With every move you make in the field, you showcases an unrivaled combination of skill, agility, and raw power. You holdheld quite the reputation around base, especially for your skills in combat.

Most of the younger cadets at the academy were also hesitant to be paired up with you, mostly afraid to get knocked out.

Whether it's engaging in close-quarters combat or taking down enemies from a distance, your every move is calculated and executed to your advantage. Your training has molded you into a formidable force, capable of adapting to any situation with ease.

But you haven’t always been like that. Going through the ranks before and during your recruitment to the 141, you were pushed beyond your boundaries and worked through.

Now you’re lethal, and one of the military’s strongest assets. But like anyone else, you have hobbies. Dangerous hobbies.

You step into the dimly lit underground arena, the air thick with anticipation. It's early, and the entire space lies empty, granting you a moment of solitude before the chaos ensues. The only sound is the distant hum of the overhead lights, casting an ethereal glow over the barren ring.

With a focused gaze, you tighten your fists and step forward. Your first strike connects with the bag, and the impact reverberates through the arena like a gunshot. The sound echoes off the empty seats, filling the air with the thunderous force of your blows.

The scent of sweat and anticipation lingers in the air, fueling your senses. Your muscles ripple beneath your skin, coiled and ready for action.

Your teammates on the 141 know you lead a mysterious life when you’re not at work, but have never seen you in action. You decided that it was time to let your most trusted friends in on your endeavors. Mostly because Soap was dying to see you in the ring.

The Captain isn’t very fond of you putting yourself into dangerous situations outside of your already severely dangerous occupation. He’s like a father to you, but he also understands and respects your talent.

Now as you sit in your dimly lit dressing room, the anticipation of the upcoming underground boxing match courses through your veins. The air is thick with the scent of sweat and determination, mingling with the faint echo of distant cheers from the eager crowd.

The mirror before you reflects the flickering glow of a single bare lightbulb dangling from above, casting shadows across your face.

You take a deep breath, the adrenaline surging within you as you run your fingers through your hair. The rhythmic motion of braiding your hair has always been a ritual before each fight or mission, a way to focus your mind and steel your resolve.

“Quite a crowd tonight, Bullet.” A voice breaks the silence. You look up to see Anchor, the man who arranges the fights. You’ve been fighting in his arena for 3 years.

He’s wearing his signature navy blue suit, his hair gelled and a championship ring on each finger. He throws you an envelope and you catch it on your bare lap. “Three thousand. Five when you win.” He winks, leaning against the doorframe. “You’ve got Tank Gomez tonight.”

You open the envelope and glance at its contents, the crisp bills tucked neatly within. Anchors the only other person you’ve ever trusted besides your team. He trained your mind to always be lethal and ready, coming from a fighting background himself. “Copy that.” You say, a smile at your lips.

“When do you deploy?” He asks, crossing his arms. “People don’t seem to care about me when ‘Bullet’ isn’t in the ring.” You shake your head at the nickname you’ve acquired.

“3 days. So don’t scuff me up too bad.” You tease, getting up to put on your robe.

The crowd awaits, hungry for the spectacle that is about to unfold. But it's more than just a performance; it's a test of your mettle, an opportunity to showcase your mastery of the craft.

With Anchor's support, you step forward, ready to embrace the chaos and reclaim your rightful place in the ring. The anticipation builds, the sound of the crowd growing louder as you make your way through the corridors.

As you step into the ring, the air crackles with anticipation. The crowd roars, their excitement reverberating through the arena. Across from you stands your opponent, a formidable figure, a big man whose sheer size alone could intimidate the faint of heart.

As you take your stance, a flicker of movement catches your attention from the corner seats. Soap, Price, Gaz, and Ghost, are there, watching you intently. Soap sends an energetic thumbs up, cheering you on.

Yet, as you meet Ghost's gaze, you notice his eyes. The usual seriousness is replaced by a coldness, an intensity that makes it unreadable. He looks away. Ghost has never been one to support your hobbies, but watches along anyway.

The referee's voice cuts through the tension, signaling the start of the fight. The world around you narrows, and everything else becomes a blur. It's just you, your opponent, and the dance of combat.

You move with purpose, your training guiding your every step. Dodging, weaving, and countering, you navigate the ring with grace and precision. Each blow is calculated, your fists finding their mark with practiced accuracy.

The big man lunges forward, his power evident in every punch he throws. But you refuse to be overwhelmed. Your speed and agility become your greatest assets, allowing you to evade his strikes while retaliating with your own punishing combinations.

“Argh!” One of his punches land, striking you right under the eye. You curse knowing the bruise it’s gonna leave later. You feel a little blood drop down your cheek. Recovering quickly you bounce back.

With each passing second, the intensity of the fight grows, both you and your opponent refusing to back down. Sweat beads on your brow, mingling with the taste of blood and adrenaline on your lips. The rounds blur together, time becoming inconsequential as you immerse yourself in the battle, fully present, fully alive.

As the final bell sounds, the crowd erupts in applause. The fight is over, your opponent is out cold, and you've given it your all. You stand tall in the center of the ring, catching your breath, as the referee holds your victory arm up high.

After a grueling workout, you find yourself in the open gym on the military base, sweat glistening on your brow and a towel draped around your neck. Your bruised knuckles draw your attention, serving as a reminder of the battle you fought in the ring just a week ago.

As you examine them, lost in your thoughts, the door swings open, and Ghost walks in, his presence commanding attention. “Hey.” You say to him, with a nod.

“You’re here.” He replies, monotonously. His normal gear is now replaced with gym shorts and T-shirt. He trades out the full skull mask with a black balaclava.

“Why wouldn’t I be.” You chuckle, watching as he sets down a weight. You would normally work out with Ghost as you’ve got sort of a friendship that’s built over the years.

Today he seems awfully distant. You feel the tension growing between the two of you. You knew he was never a fan of you fighting for show, he was the first person you told about your endeavors, and he wasn’t too thrilled.

Ghost's eyes briefly meet yours before shifting away. You lean against the hanging punching bag, and cross your arms. It's evident that he's harboring a deep anger, his normally calm demeanor shattered by the concern that has festered within him.

“It was nice of you to come out the other night.” You say, testing the waters. His head turns in your direction as he takes you in. His gaze stops at your knuckles.

“You’re gonna get yourself killed.” He says, looking right through you. You scoff a dry laugh.

“Haven’t yet.”

“You think this is funny?”

Ghost's voice cuts through the air, his anger palpable. You straighten up, meeting his gaze head-on, refusing to back down. The tension between you escalates, the air crackling with unresolved emotions.

"No, Simon, I don't think it's funny," you reply, your voice tinged with a mix of frustration and defiance. "But I also don't think it's fair for you to dictate what I can or cannot do. This is my choice, my path."

Ghost's eyes narrow, his anger simmering beneath the surface. "Your choice? This isn't just about you, Y/N," he snaps, his voice biting with a sense of betrayal. "Every time you step into that ring, you're not just risking your own life; you're risking everything."

His words hit you hard, the weight of his disappointment bearing down on you. You take a deep breath, struggling to find the right words to convey your own perspective.

“I've trained for this, I know what I'm doing."

Ghost scoffs, his disbelief evident in his tone. "Trained? You think a few months of underground fights make you invincible?”

“Fuck you. You never fucking supported anything I do!” You throw your towel down, needing to get away from him and get some fresh air into your system.

An hour later, Price calls you and the guys for the group training session. He divides the team into pairs for sparring, and to your surprise (or perhaps fate's twisted sense of humor), you find yourself standing face to face with Ghost.

The tension between you is palpable, the lingering anger and hurt casting a shadow over the training session.

Price's voice breaks through the silence, setting the rules and reminding everyone to "play nice." But deep down, you know that the emotions swirling inside you threaten to break through the facade of control.

The bell rings, signaling the start of the spar, and you and Ghost cautiously circle each other. As the seconds tick by, you feel the anger inside you bubbling to the surface, fueling your movements.

His movements are measured, his punches and kicks executed with surgical precision. He weaves in and out, his strikes landing with pinpoint accuracy, but you matche him blow for blow, refusing to back down.

The sound of fists meeting flesh echo through the training room as your strikes collided. The intensity of their spar escalates with each passing second, the energy between you crackling like electricity.

Without warning, you lash out, throwing a punch fueled by a mix of frustration and pent-up emotions. Your fist connects with Ghost's nose, the impact resounding through the air. Time seems to slow down for a moment as he staggers back, blood staining his balaclava from his broken nose.

The realization of what you've done hits you like a punch to the gut. The anger dissipates, replaced by a flood of guilt and regret. His eyes meet yours, raging and stone cold. “Fucking hell. You just don’t know when to stop do you?”.” He curses, his shoulder hitting yours as he leaves the mat.

“Si-wait!” You call after him, but before you can say anymore Price stops you.

Enough," Price's voice cuts through the air, firm and resolute. His gaze shifts between you and Ghost, assessing the situation. "Take a breather, both of you."

He gestures towards the side of the mat, signaling for you to step aside. You comply, your mind filled with a whirlwind of emotions.

A/N: That’s all I got for now or else imma be writing like 10,000 words just on this LMAO

[deakyjoe]

Somebody’s Watching Me Part 12

Pairing: Simon “Ghost” Riley x Reader (“Sarge”, she/her, British, backstory)

Category: coworkers to friends to lovers with grumpy x sunshine dynamic/idiots in love

Summary: Can the two of you fix the damage that has been done? Or is it too late?

Warnings: angst, fluff, talks of injuries, British slang/terminology, strong language, mask is off

Word count: 1.4k (a baby in comparison to other parts)

A/N: Took a break from writing this series, mostly because I was burned out and had lots of uni work to be doing, but also because I needed time to think the ending through to give you all the best of what I’m capable of. It’s not as long as other parts but I feared that if I didn’t write it now then I would never write it. It’s pretty much where I always intended the story to go, just with a lot less conversation than originally planned. There will still be an epilogue after this but for now… enjoy!

When Ghost awoke, blinded by fluorescent hospital lights, and he saw Price standing at the foot of his bed with a deep-set frown... well, he knew things weren't good. It didn't help that you were nowhere to be seen. He didn't expect you to be fawning over him and nursing him back to health or anything. But no trace of you in the hospital room at all was not an encouraging sight.

"Am I dead?" Simon said gruffly, immediately coughing as his lungs clearly had something wrong with them.

Price scoffed. "You wish."

"Damn." He attempted to sit up straight, groaning when pain stabbed through his torso. "Ah, what the fuck?"

"I'd be careful if I were you. You were shot. Several times."

"Nothing new then." He sighed and looked at Price again, a grave look crossing his face. "Where is she?"

The captain hesitated for a moment before replying. "Home."

Shit, that definitely wasn't good.

"Why?" Simon didn't really want to know, too scared of the truth, but he needed to know.

"She was severely injured. Needed better medical attention than we could give her and then some time off once she recovers. She's home now but still in remission." Price checked his watch quickly, clearing his throat when he saw the time.

"Got somewhere to be?" Ghost asked, a sarcastic inflection in his voice.

The captain nodded. "Yes, actually. Already late from waiting for your lazy arse to wake up."

He only grunted in reply and waved his superior out of the room. "Go. I'll be fine.”

"You can go home to her once you've healed a bit more. For now, rest." And with that, Price walked out of the room leaving Simon in silence.

It was okay. He liked silence. Well, more he liked the lack of talking. People talked far too much about insignificant things. Strangely, he missed the sound of your voice chattering about insignificant things. He pushed that thought away and attempted to sleep for a while.

At home, in your flat, you were sick of friends coming over to visit you. Each one seemed to have some form of baked good or casserole and your refrigerator was full to the brim already. You hadn't even been home that long.

The sheer mass of people doting over you was becoming overwhelming in the most annoying way possible. You didn't need them constantly caring for you. Sure, the sentiment was nice enough but you were used to looking after yourself and healing independently. Usually you did it in the (un)comfort of a military hospital or medical tent. Unfortunately for you, you'd been sent home this time and had had no choice in informing your friends of your sudden return back. They just suddenly knew you were there and they were more than willing to help.

"I don't need you to give me a sponge bath." You'd told one with a roll of your eyes, still thinking about earlier in the day when you'd had to tell another that it was perfectly fine for you to drink apple juice and not stick to a strict diet of water.

Honestly, a part of you was enjoying being at home and having time to relax. Even though the cause of it was a little extreme, being able to sit on your sofa all day and watch reruns of old sitcoms as you made your way through every dish stacked in your fridge was nice. Almost... fun.

A part of you longed for something though. Simon. Obviously him. You craved to know how he was doing. When you'd first woken up, a nurse had simply told that he was alive and nothing else. Alive meant nothing. You didn't even know if his condition was stable.

You were worried, to say the least. And even Price wasn't willing to divulge any further information when you'd pressed him for it over the phone. He'd just mumbled something vague and moved on to asking you how you were doing.

It was frustrating. That was for sure.

The days passed and you grew restless, itching to get out of the house again. But you were sensible and followed the suggested instructions from the several doctors that had all agreed that you needed in order to heal properly. It was just a shame that it took so long to happen.

On day, what felt like, one billion of staying at home, there was a knock at the door. And after you'd taken a minute or two shuffling towards it, shouting out a stream of reassurances that you were on your way, you were utterly shocked to find your lieutenant on the doorstep.

Your mouth opened and closed a few times before a ridiculous sentiment left your mouth.

"Jesus, is this like those hallucinations you get just before dying?"

Simon said nothing, just the twitch of the corner of his mouth indicated that he had even heard you, and outstretched his fist to you.

In his hand, was an apple.

Specifically, one of the good apples from the farmers' market.

You looked up at him in confusion.

"Peace offering."

That explained it. So, you took it from him and opened the door wider to let him in. You weren't about to turn down a good apple or a peace offering.

Once you'd both settled yourselves into comfortable positions on the sofa, you wincing a few times and growing jealous that he seemed to have healed so quickly, you really took your time to look at him.

You tilted your head to the side and raked your eyes over him. "You're nervous."

"Am I?" His eyebrows raised a fraction.

"Yes." You nodded.

"How can you tell?"

"You scratch at the scars on your face when something is making you anxious."

"Hm." His eyes squinted at that observation, obviously not previously aware that he had that tell.

You moved on, not willing to dwell on that. "Why are you here?"

"Visiting an old friend."

You laughed sarcastically. "Oh, really?"

He shrugged, still as frustrating as ever. "You should've left me behind."

You'd be shocked if he hadn't been so self-sacrificial in previous times.

"Why would I do that?" You asked, lacing your voice with a mock innocent tone.

"Would've been the smart decision." He snapped.

So you shot right back. "Maybe I'm not smart."

"Yes, you are. You're just stubborn."

The words he'd once told you came tumbling out of your mouth. "A stubborn brat you mean?"

"That too."

You laughed again, shaking your head in disbelief. "You're right. I am stubborn. And I couldn't let you die. The idea of you... I can't stand it. So I let you live for selfish reasons. Alright?"

"You should have let me die."

"Shut up, Simon. That was never going to happen." You rolled your eyes at him and grit your teeth when a shooting pain stabbed through your side as you adjusted your position on the sofa.

Simon's hands raised for a second as if about to help you before he lowered them again.

Instead, he asked a question.

"Why not?"

You looked at him to see if he was being serious. He was.

"You know why."

"Maybe I don't."

You sighed. He was so difficult sometimes. Yet, you gave in.

"I..." You trailed off into thought.

But Simon wasn't going to let it go so easily. "You what?"

"I, y'know, I feel..." Your hands waved around as if hoping to grip a coherent answer from the air.

"Feel what?" The slight raise of an eyebrow hinted that he knew exactly what you wanted to say.

You sighed in defeat. "You know what I'm trying to get across here, Simon."

"I want to hear you say it."

"I feel for you. Have feelings. More than platonic. I... care... for you." You cringed at your own clumsiness, wondering when you'd lost your ability to fully communicate with words.

"I know."

You punched him lightly on the shoulder. "Cocky shit."

"I also care for you."

"I know." You scoffed teasingly.

He just repeated your words back to you. "Cocky shit."

The smiles that broke out across both of your faces were indescribable.

Yeah, the two of you were being slightly more awkward about this than usual but it was never going to be easy to just jump right back in to what you used to have. Smaller steps would have to be taken. And you were fine with that. As was he. You’d get there eventually, it was only a matter of time. After all, some things were just meant to happen.

A/N: Thank you all so much for sticking with me through my hiatus! I’m sorry this is a quick resolution but the epilogue is still on the way.

[sagephilosophie]

ROYAL REQUEST

┆RINDOU H. &. HARUCHIYO S.

Chapter II : Sanzu's Wife 「Masterlist」

꩜ Chapter Summary ▸ For nothing can cure the princess' broken heart, but the wedding bells crushed into dust.

꩜ Chapter Tags ▸ Implied/Referenced Pregnancy, historically accurate misogyny, Arranged Marriage, Cheating, historically accurate systemic oppression, slight suggestive content.

꩜ Word Count ▸ 5995

The Shibuya kingdom; known for their powerful political and financial figures, authority over the rest of the kingdoms within the Tokyo empire, widely civilized society, and graceful princess that will bring them peace by marrying into the Kantou kingdom royal family.

Never had the princess been so terrified of her way back home.

(Name) watched coldly as the carriage pass by the forest, lake, and farms and for once she couldn't admire them, the future looked so harmful through the greens, the urge to open the door of the moving cart and roll off the hill was pretty tempting.

Her head went to two directions, one autocalming her with memories of the previous night, of Rindou's messy mauve hair in her grasp as his muscular one held tight to her thighs, oh the pure euphoria as his lips painted her neck similar color to his orbs, all while mercilessly fucking her. The other making up horrifying scenarios, of her lover targeted by the Shibuya and Kantou royal family, of having to end up in a loveless marriage and possibly never seeing Rindou again.

'If i can't marry whom i love...' she thought '...i won't love whom i marry.' A promise. A fake promise. She cared for Sanzu... just not like that... never like that...

At the thought of Sanzu a memory popped up into her head...

"(Nickname)! Over here!", Happily gestured the Tokyo prince, as the little princess tried to keep up with him and the Yokohama prince running up the hill, racing to the cherry tree.

Unfortunately for her, they had too much energy to match that she had to stop midway to sit down and catch her breath.

"Manjiro! Keisuke! (Nickname) is tired", Rushed the Kantou prince to her side, taking her hand and offering her a plum he just got before finding them.

The other two kids stopped their tracks and ran back the opposite direction, making the four of them sitting and facing the Tokyo imperial palace, that looked like a toy house from their point of view.

"Do you still have more plums?"

"Stop thinking of food all the time"

"No one was talking to you"

"Both of you be quiet already!!"

"What will you do if we don't?"

"I will tell your brother Shinichiro"

"No you will not"

"Yes i would"

"Then catch me first"

Manjiro got back on his feet and continued running as Baji followed along, both kids giggled and called for Sanzu to play catch with them, the boy in question moved away and squated for (name), "i will carry you around, now let's beat them!"

She climbed his back and he ran after the troubled boys to the cherry tree. The sounds of children laughing echoed across the open area.

It was put to the test more than once how Sanzu was a loyal friend and companion who would always have her back. Including these times.

As a matter of fact, they haven't seen to one another since the engagement ceremony nor spoke during it, he was well aware she wasn't taking the news as happy ones so he was making sure to give her space; another small considerate act from Haru that still meant a load.

There was more supporting factors for that, however - aside from the superstition of the unluck threatening the groom and bride presuming they meet before the wedding - the Kantou kingdom faced a number of political menaces that kept the wedding delaying; from going on a hunt for the traitor of the royal military, to encountering two seperate rebellion movements known as Moebius and Valhalla, leading them to suffer severe damages especially with their most capable captain, Yasuhiro Muto, fleeing the territory upon being discovered as the traitor they were looking for.

Rumour has it, he works for an underground alliance between corrupted royal figures to dethrone the now emperor, Shinichiro Sano.

The prince, tangled through all this mess, being the only capable working royal around to take care of the kingdom, that he became a serious mess - almost reaching Rindou's workaholism level - that he had no time in his hand to meet up with the princess nor discuss their opinions - not that it mattered - they were in neutral terms with the idea anyways, even she was willing at one point to be Sanzu's wife ... that was until Rindou and his gorgeous face interfered.

Within their love hours she couldn't think properly of the consequences, the disgrace of having a premarital affair with a different man than her betrothed, the possible treason against the council's decision to her courtship allegation, the crossed boundaries between respected allies such as the Kantou kingdom, and the threats of supplies getting cut and the innocent civilians end up in an extreme famine because of her... The consequences kept getting worse as she listed them, all of that flew over her head back then, all they could've thought as worst case scenario was separating from one another.

-

The shame was late, the realisation of the situation only hit (name) as she passed the gates, heading to the meeting tower. That damned tower.

She couldn't recognize the way inside her own home anymore, the stairs were getting taller and taller the more steps she took, the sound of her own footwear against the surface haunted her.

"May this go right so i would too...", she chanted under her breath repeatedly. The promises she made all day were to no one but the void, saying something with a meaning of 'help me out of this one and i will stop sinning' sounded ridiculous when she'd break her vows faster than ever if and when Rindou shows up.

The meeting room door swung open... The members of the council shifted their full attention to (name). The mood got tense and the wind blowing outside the brick wall sounds ever so clear.

"May we be of assistance... your royal highness ?", urged Lord Kisaki Tetta with a sharp tone - that she didn't appreciate.

"Yes... i mean.... well....", she inhaled intensely, "i came with an announcement..."

"And what may that be ?", the king replying from across the room caught her off guard, unnerving her more.

"I- uh...."

Breath in...

"The t-t-thing is...."

Breath out...

"You make me happy princess..."

That was all the encouragement she needed.

"I wish to cancel my engagement to Haru."

The room flipped; everyone yelled in unisen that words were incomprehensible, but the curses were too loud to miss, no doubt they were going to freak out but shouting insults at her in the presence of the king took her aback - more concerningly that he was too... collected...

Tears threatened to fall as the slurs kept rolling, the men got up from their chairs holding their work papers for dear life to revise the outcomes of the alternative she suggested, unnecessarily calling her a Bitch behind every word, the unreasonable ferality getting out of hand.

"QUIET!!!!! QUIET GENTLEMEN!!!!!", Duke Ken Ryuguji silenced the raging circle and warned them, "I should remind fellow members of the Shibuya council to watch their tounges, when speaking to our Princess."

Everyone behaved themselves on his command; the Duke was well respected as the right arm of the Tokyo empire crown prince, Manjiro Sano.

"Well pardon me, Your grace", Kisaki's mischievous voice barged in, signaling no good, "are you perhaps implying you... support her royal highness' statement?"

"I have not implied a thing, Sir Kisaki", Ken answered him in a serious note, "however, i believe we should hear her out."

"Sure, sure, oh please elaborate on your catastrophic, disadvantageous, and death-dealing vision, princess (name)! We're all ears!", sarcastically added Kisaki.

"Oh don't be ridiculous... that's just melodramatic...", She can hear Ken growling from his place prior to replying again on her behalf.

"Is it now ?", The malicious man moved from his seat closer to the center to address the entire room, "Shall i remind you all what awaits us if prince Takeomi dies ?"

The silence in the room got loud, a cold breeze roamed around. Not even the princess dared to argue with... what started the arrangements;

The Shibuya kingdom and the Kantou kingdom had a long-term tied history... ever since the late emperor, Mansaku sano, gave them close lands both kingdoms favored the other and have been practising inside trades, Shibuya ended up excessively relying on Kantou's agricultural goods, which was proven to be disastrous on one fateful day;

When the crown prince of Kantou, Takeomi Akashi, disguised himself and roamed the villages of Shibuya, unwarned, the prince was cornered by a group of Knights that knocked him out and beat him up, his head was severely injured which left him comatosed.

To avoid war and conflicts, the council acted fast to find the culprits and publicly execute them, but that was not enough.. Kantou parliament wasn't going to let that slide so fast as Takeomi showed no signs of recovery and they had to resort to preparing the spare for the role of a crown prince.

Said spare, Haruchiyo Akashi - now Sanzu for safety measurements - also received the most awaited duty of an heir; to conceive a child, that's when Shibuya council jumped at the chance to offer a peace treaty by making arrangements to marry off their beloved princess, (name), to Sanzu so all ends contently.

Or so they thought.

The tower dared not talk back to Kisaki after reminding them how important this marriage was for the sake of peace, all were convinced there was no way around this, either she marries Sanzu or war it is.

"Am glad we're all in the same page, however...", He turned to face the bride-to-be with a nerve-wrecking smile, "I'm curious..."

The princess gave him a puzzled look at what he was building up to.

"what made you to change your mind two days before the wedding..."

Her expression twisted when he finished off, "maybe another man ?"

She broke into cold sweat at the indirect mention of Rindou, all the ways they could try to hurt him if she admits anything....

The silence made it too late.

"And there you have it, gentlemen."

A loud slam was heard from across the room...

The king tossed his chair away and made his way to where the princess was standing, "is it true ?"

Upon receiving no answer a loud slap echoed, "you whore... who is he? Give me the name. Now."

She held her cheek and tears streamed down her face. Still no answer. The king's expression got dark and enraged he ordered, "That settles it."

The king turned to face the council, "Princess (Name) is to be wed to Prince Haruchiyo by the chosen date", he got back to her once again, "and you better cut off your little affair if you know what's good for you.

End of."

With that, the meeting ended and the men in the room were dismissed.

The princess ran away from the tower and seeked refuge in her chamber, the ladies-in-waiting in there hovered over their crying lady as she covered her face with her hands and sobbed loudly, they couldn't make up what she was saying while she sniffled between words.

In a blow up moment, (name) ordered everybody out harshly, and was left alone to hear her own ragged breathing.

She moved near the mirror and stared wide-eyed into her own eyes in the reflection, in disbelief of the mess she looked like...

-

(Name) sat still in front of the mirror and stared coldly back at her own eyes in the reflection while the maid was adding the final touch to the flower crown to the bride, she had been all dolled up for the Prince; the royal family requested the best tailors from the west to specifically make her the most majestic wedding dress - that was singlehandedly made of 7 layers from the finest fabrics in the empire - to speak of years to come, professional stylists and beauticians travelled across the empire to Kantou kingdom just for the darling princess' most suitable hair style and cosmetics.

None of that impressed her. Truly acting like a lifeless doll since arriving to her new home, the Kantou kingdom. Absent-mindedly being bathed by the maids, she stared into the abyss as the warm water ran down her body.

"You're beautiful..."

The door opened and another maid curtsied, "it is time, my lady"

Her vision blurred when she stood up and her hearing was muffled, she walked down the hallway within her 'home' and made up the nobleladies talking to her but not their words.

She've been to the Kantou palace many times, but it felt strange and unfamiliar like it was her first time seeing this path.

Next thing she knew the door was creaking and the lights in the venue almost blinded her, faded faces were staring her way awaiting for her arrival, the musicians changed the song into what sounded like her dreadful fate...

Douce dame jolie,

Pour dieu ne pensés mie...

(Sweet, beautiful lady,

For god's sake, do not think...)

the guests lowered their wine glasses, and the cleric moved next to her so soon-to-be father-in-law, King Akashi...

Que nulle ait signorie...

(That anyone rules over me...)

The Shibuya kingdom king closer than everyone, ready to walk her down the aisle towards a classy pink-haired gentleman that's further from her than everyone, he had his hands clasped clearly waiting more impatiently than everyone else for his bride's move...

Seur moy fors vous seulement...

( But you alone...)

But she can only recognise Rindou in the crowd, misty-eyed with dark circles, his lips curved into a pout and she felt her heart break to the right person being in the wrong place...

Qu'adès sans tricherie...

Chierie...

(For endlessly and without falsehood...

I have cherished you...)

Feeling alive again, (name) unmindfully moved forward, only to be cuffed to her father's arm taking her to the luxurious dungeons known as her fate -or hell in her made up world...

Vous ay et humblement...

(And humbly...)

She stared around once more and the image was clear again. This is happening... her eyes widened at seeing the cleric and Sanzu getting closer from her point of view...

Tous les jours de ma vie...

Servie...

(All the days of my life...

I have served you...)

she turned her head to see the duke, he had the thousand yard stare like she never saw him before whilst Ran had a hand on his younger brother's shoulder, worried for him...

Sans villain pensement...

(With no unworthy thought...)

The king kissed his child's forehead through the veil and extended her hand to hold the groom's - who helped her up by his side - and the cleric began speaking, "we are gathered here today by god's will to join this man and this woman..."

Helas! et je mendie...

D'esperance et d'aïe...

(Alas! And i beg...

For hope and aid...)

The cleric's voice went faint as Sanzu turned his head and murmered kindly to his young bride's ear, "My princess, I'm grateful that you're the one with whom I'll spend the rest of my life..."

Dont ma joie est fenie...

(For my joy is ended...)

Her eyelids kept twitching at the overload of her thoughts, memories, and visions. Glancing at the middle akashi next to her, he is stunning; his long rosy hair neat and tied in a ponytail only one strand of hair fell on his face but it wasn't out of place, his white and golden ensemble made him look more king-like than a prince, he wore a small smirk on his soft pink lips that can only be seen from his side profile - where she was standing - the only thing topping all that are his ocean eyes underneath his long snow eyelashes. The man was god-crafted...

Se pité ne vous en prent...

(If you do not take pity...)

The cleric arranged the clock and gave both of them time to read out their vows, hand in hand, locked eyes, and the vows were coming to an end - and so was the future for her...

Douce dame jolie,

Pour dieu ne pensés mie...

Que nulle ait signorie,

Seur moy fors vous seulement...

(Sweet, beautiful lady,

For god's sake, do not think...

That anyone rules over me,

But you alone...)

"I hereby pronounce you husband and wife, You may now kiss the bride."

Mais vo douce maistrie...

Maistrie...

(But your sweet mastery...

Masters...)

Sanzu lifted the Princess' veil, her paranoid eyes gazed into his love-struck ones and his hands lovingly stroke her cheeks as he held her...

Mon cuer si durement...

(My heart so harshly...)

Rindou couldn't watch anymore and dropped his head with the scene unfolding, closing his eyes tightly and fighting the tears...

Qu'elle le contralie...

Et lie...

(That it torments...

And binds it...)

Ran watched worriedly on behalf of his brother at the newlyweds sharing their first kiss and the crowd cheering loudly, he - unlike them - understand the dynamics around the room and couldn't enjoy the ceremony like the rest of the invitees...

En amour tellement.

(So much in love.)

-

A giant table was set after the ceremony for the royal families and their guests, serving gallons of alcohol that filled their golden chalices. Everyone was too focused on their ceremonial beverage whilst (name) hopelessly searched for Rindou with her eyes, no sign of him anywhere.

King akashi got up and raised his wine, drawing everyone's attention towards him, "this is a toast... to my daughter-in-law! welcome to the family (name)."

The young royal snapped out of her headspace and thanked him quietly, when her king followed next, "My old friend... this is a toast to our new family bond... TO FAMILY!!"

The men and women raised their own drinks and applauded to their drunken speech, every second that passes by in that dining hall, the princess shifts closer to insanity, things can only get worse for her when she accidentally overheard her husband's cousin make a remark to him, telling him to monitor his drinking to stay awake tonight, and she felt sick to her stomach at that very mention.

Sanzu did tell his drunk cousin off, but the reminder of what's to happen this night was suffocating enough.

"Not drinking, princess ?", the older haitani crept from beside her that she practically jumped on Sanzu, "it's your night, you know."

"No, I'm not gonna drink", she answered him and he hummed swirling the wine goblet in his hand, on her other side, Sanzu scolded his old acquaintance, "leave her alone, Ran."

"You are of luck...", added Ran, "not anyone can melt down stones..."

Sanzu scoffed at that metaphor and took another sip of his whiskey, but (name) understood whom he really meant.

He got up to walk away, "Take care of him, (name)... he doesn't show it too often but he needs your love.", the Roppongi prince's disguised request flew over everyone's head, only he and his brother's lover knew the real meaning behind his blessing.

Ran smiled, "and that maid is a looker.", he winked playfully and left the dining hall, the comment confused her until she turned to find said maid approaching to announce in her ears,

"it is time to go to the bridal chamber, my lady."

-

The way to the bridal chamber was uncomfortable, she could hear her heartbeats pounding excessively, she tripped over her own feet a couple of times and the night wasn't lookong so great from here.

Her legs froze in their place at the presence of Rindou on the way, looking at her like a kicked puppy. If it weren't for the maids, she would've jumped in his arms immediately.

She stared at him tenderly, the most joyful she has been all day, she stood there silently in hope he'd say anything, absolutely anything and she would agree and leave with him wherever. But the princess' pain was immeasurable when he averted his eyes. 'Oh... he doesn't care anymore...'

"Leave, Rindou...", (Name) whimpered, "this my first night what do you still need here..."

The duke's silence done nothing but infuriate her and the tears streaming down her face grew warmer that she snapped at him,

"I... I... I... I TRIED- AND- AND YOU'RE- YOU'RE HE...RE- JUST WHAT ARE- WHAT ARE YOU EVEN DOING HERE???????!!!!!!!!", she stammered in her cries, beating his chest with both her fists until he held them tightly with his own, "LEAVE!!!!!!!!!!!!! JU- JUST... GO.... LEAVE ME RIN...DOU..."

His heart shattered at hearing his love bawling - because of him nonetheless - so he respected her wish and left her as a shell of a woman.

The maids stepped closer to hold the crying lady, escorting her away from the hall, unbothered to any drama only fulfilling their mission to get her ready for their nuptial night.

-

Changing her into a cream lace nightgown didn't do much to stop the princess from crying a river, the older maid of the two taking care of her kept telling her stuff about a woman's duty to endure pain for her husband and some other nonsense she didn't care enough to listen to.

'This is wrong... this is all wrong...'

She lived this scene before; getting ready waiting for her man under the moonlight, and it isn't as charming the second time, most definitely because the man about to enter the chamber is her childhood friend and not the one she loved and lost her virginity to.

Not one, but two relationships are about to be ruined by this night... if the fight with Rindou didn't already do enough damage that is.

When the young maid let go of her hair and they both curtsied, there was no need to look at the door to figure her fate arrived.

Sanzu ordered both maids out and approached the bed, she had already stopped crying from alarm but was now in the mood to bite if he tried anything funny. It was on to the second stage of heartbreak, full fury.

He placed his hand with care under her chin and moved her face to meet his, she finally noticed him; he had let his long pink hair down and left the bangs fall on his face really close to his half-lidded eyes, a pink blush covered his face as he still had that smirk on his scarred lips, staring down his white and golden robe was now open revealing his abs - even though Rindou was more muscular - and one last thing she noticed was a red dagger tied to his belt before drawing her attention again, "look at me..."

"Why was my wife crying ? This is a happy occasion you know...", Sanzu muttered while his finger stroked her chin, her angry expression was the only response he got, "tell me what's wrong, pretty..."

Slowly and patiently, he brought her face closer to his own only to be pushed hard into the ground, Sanzu gave her a puzzled look, "(Nickname)? No seriously what's wrong ?"

"Everything was just alright. Thank you", the bride responded harshly and stomped away from him.

The prince got up on his feet to follow her and held a hand in place as she struggled, "wait- you can't- where are you going ?"

"None of your business.", She freed her hand from his grasp and pushed him again this time not strong enough to trip him down, "and i have no business here with a jester like you."

Sanzu held her back in place, hugging from behind with one arm holding her wrists down in another, "come on there is no need to keep pushing me, sit still so we can talk!!!"

"LET GO OF ME!!!", they kept struggling like that, the princess trying to free herself by knocking him down while he kept her in place.

"Promise you won't push again first.", she eventually nodded so he retreated a few steps still holding her left wrist gently, "now, look at me and just talk..."

She turned furiously and slapped him, "just talk ???? JUST TALK????? I don't want you !!!!! I don't want to marry you !!!!!! what's so hard to understand ??????"

Sanzu held his cheek shockingly at the outburst of the princess he knew and grew up with all his life, he never saw her like this nor did they ever have to get violant. The graceful and elegant Shibuya's sweetheart princess losing her composure and letting it all out on her childhood friend - now husband - it was like witnessing a headline for stories to come, really taking him aback. This was not the (name) he knew, something was extremely wrong and he stayed quiet to listen in if she tells him.

She saw red just by staring at him, his entire being was irritating her, she tried to slap him again but he dodged, the pent-up rage from the entire day has reached its limit and now the culprit was right in front of her, she went on to attack him but he still overpowered her, "calm down!!!!! (Name)!!!!!!"

"You don't get it- You never will !!!!!!!!! You won't understand what it's like !!!!!!!!!!!! Being a DEAL....... a god damn PRODUCT!!!!!!!!!!! You're to blame!!!!!!!!!!!!! YOU WORTHLESS PIECE OF TRASH- FOOLISH BASTARD-", Sanzu didn't say anything as his wife was losing her sanity and kept on insulting and yelling at him, still trying to land a hit on him but he controlled their position enough to hold her close as she cried in his arms in the end.

The second Akashi son picked (name) up bridal style and tucked her in bed, watching her closely cry herself to sleep. When the room finally got quiet from the sniffs, he took put his dagger and it on his finger to see how sharp it is.

As quiet as he can, he stabbed his own hand and left the blood drip on the mattress.

"Sleep well..."

-

The next morning, two maids opened the curtains to sneak the sunshine in, the princess woke up anxiously and examined her surroundings, oh, that's right, she lives in Kantou palace now.

"Good morning, my lady.", a maid curtsied before her.

"...where's Haru ?"

"His royal highness woke up a long time ago and he told me to inform you he wished to have breakfast with the entire royal family before his departure to close a deal with an old acquaintance so they are now waiting for your arrival", the princess stared half-mindedly at the woman standing, then at the ones behind her.

"... I will be there in a minute.", she tried getting up but almost fell, the three women rushed to her side, two of them staying to help her change into a presentable gown, the last one took the blooded mattress specifically and left behind everything else.

She looked at the ground, mind occupied by last night and how she treated Haruchiyo. If she must be honest, she'd say she feels ashamed to see him again, but to be sincere, she needs to apologise, so she took a couple of deep breaths, and headed to the garden.

The atmosphere in the garden was rather calming, enough to distract her from the tense one she's living, the flora and the breeze warmed up a spot inside her broken heart.

"Oooohhhhh~ siiiiiiiiiisterrrrr innnnn lawwwwww~"

(Name) followed the voice to find the grand duchess, Senju Akashi, waving for her to join their breakfast table. She did find a spot next to Haruchiyo, but tried finding another to avoid the awkwardness, unfortunately, there was exactly five chairs; King Akashi always sits at the head of the table, the seat that was supposed to be opposite of him taken away, Senju facing her brother and sitting next to her grandmother. Oh. Meaning the only chair left was supposed to be Takeomi's. How unpleasant.

The Kantou princess swallowed her pride and sat next to her spouse, deciding to only apologise when they're alone. Sanzu, however, didn't get that idea as he put the food down and gazed worriedly at his life-long friend changing towards him the moment she became his wife.

The king broke the tension by starting small talk, "What a joyous twist of events!!! i remember you kids being inseparable... oh, i also remember my Senju here begging to play with you two, but her brother scolds her and she comes crying to me!"

"DAD!!!", The old king laughed at his daughter's embarrasment of the memory, the newest Akashi consort found their bond adorable, Senju's open behaviour with her father was something Shibuya royal life couldn't allow for her own.

Despite the mention of Takeomi saddening them, Haruchiyo chuckled at his sister too and they shared a small happy family moment.

"Oh come on, Haru, Dad also brought up you two inseparable love birds~", Senju teased her brother.

"Senju don't-"

"I wonder how inseparable you were last n- OUCH!!!!!! WHAT WAS THAT FOR?????", Sanzu pinched his sister before she could finish her sentence, "I said. Don't."

"WHAT DID I DO NOW???!!!!"

"Your brother is right, Dear, that's a private matter."

"I was just curioussssss!!!! Back me up here, nana!!!!", the energetic girl shook the old lady slightly, getting no reaction at all, she couldn't even hear her.

On the contrary, the woman only looked over to see (Name) and smiled brightly, "grandson... who is this lovely lady ?"

The princess couldn't help but smile back, she could feel the pain following her the past three days soothing. Her husband equally as relaxed by seeing her smile after their intense fight.

"It's your grandson's wife, mother", Father Akashi answered her.

"What ?"

"YOUR GRANDSON'S WIFE!!!!", Senju raised her voice for the antecedent queen to hear better.

"Greatson is alive ? Congratulations", Senju frowned at her failure when the two men broke into laughter.

"Oh don't disappoint your nana son, do give her a great-grandson! I'm waiting for my grandson as well"

"Oh, for sure...", Haruchiyo's reply made the noble lady put down her utensils, "...At this rate we will get you as many grandchildren as you wish!"

The princess' smile dropped as rage boiled up inside her, she slammed the table getting up and left her in-laws in confusion, Sanzu got up to run after her but she kept running away from him, "(Name) WAIT!!!!!" "GO AWAY!!!"

The prince managed to corner her before she could reach the gates and whisper-shouted, "why did you leave like that ??!! What now ???!!!"

"You little- Who do you think you are ?! I will not bare your children!!!! Who even said i will agree to consumate this marriage ?!", She argued.

"Shhhhhh lower down your voice, if the council find out your hymen didn't even break, you will be in bigger trouble than i am and you should know that by now!!", he got closer to answer back in a low voice, "listen, (name), i'm serious don't mention that outloud again!! I'm sorry... but they don't care about you, they just see you as a womb, and they won't hesitate to hurt you... not even I can protect you from their panorama that far, so please just... cooperate and play nice till we have that heir and they will leave you alone... please."

The princess gave him a piercing glare and murmered, "You can not threaten me into letting you impregnate me, Haruchiyo..."

"I'M NOT-", The stressed man sighed and ran his fingers through his hair to pull himself together, "that is not what i said, we will have that child whenever you feel like it... but for the time being do not make it too obvious. For your own. Safety."

She moved dangerously close to his face, "And we are having that child never."

Yelping as Sanzu held her face with one hand, his expression got dark, "I have been saying since morning, we don't have much choice here."

She almost fell when he let go, this time it was his turn to show hostility in his tone, "Weither you liked it or not, it is the only fucking reason you are here, so you can give me an offspring. I am not a fucking god to alter every course of your reality that you do not like, give me a fucking break, i'm trying my best here. Welcome to your new life now."

(Name) took a step back and left running, she can hear her husband calling for her to come back but her tears decided trusting him won't be a choice anymore.

She ordered the guards by the gate to prepare her a carriage in a hurry.

'I won't stay here a minute longer...'

-

The princess sobbed on the entire way to Roppongi kingdom, the place where she felt love at its peak.

She needs to see Rindou now, whatever it takes.

Passing by the vast fields from the Haitanis' territory, the sharp feelings since confronting the council ate away the allure and innocence of the first impression she had on the route to their castle .

"i'll be with you through every minute"

Rindou's husky voice recited again and again in her thoughts to convince herself this is the right thing to do, be with the younger Haitani, always and forever.

She payed no attention to anything but the daydream to embrace him, not the carriage stopping at the center of the estate, not the guards dropping their heads low in her presence, not all gates opening to pave the way, not the servants trying to interrogate her visit, no one and nothing were cared for.

(Name) approached the stairs, determined to reach her lover's room when she was stopped by the older Haitani, "Princess ? What are you doing here ?"

"I made a mistake, Ran...", 'pushing him away last night', "I need to speak to Rindou!!!

"I don't know about that, (name)... meeting Rindou now is a bad idea-"

"Please- i really need to see him please..."

"(Name)... it's risky i mean... does your husband even know you're here?"

She began to weep again and Ran found himself with no choice, "No nononononono- look look it's alright you can go talk to him, but make it quick! He's in the Library, here let me show you the way..."

The princess wiped her tears and followed him, recklessly running to where Ran was pointing when they got closer and swinging the door open.

"RIN!!!!"

"...Princess?!", Rindou tossed his book away getting up hastily from the chair, his hair was a mess and his face looked tired, it doesn't take a genius to figure out he hadn't slept that night.

No time wasted, she jumped into his arms, "oh Rinny... i'm so sorry i should have never let you go... i love you!!"

At loss for words, the duke hugged her back hesitantly, "My princess, i love you too but...", carefully he broke apart from the hug, "... you're not mine anymore..."

"Don't say that, Rin!!! of course i'm yours i...", (Name) looked him deep in the eyes and caressed his cheek, "I only belong to you..."

Rindou put the hand on his cheek down and held it tightly, he summed up the courage to tell her in a cracking voice, "You have a husband now, (Name), this is your chance to live happily ever after... and it wouldn't be love if i ruin it..."

"No... no Rindou don't- i don't love him, Rin... you're... the only one i can live happily with i-... my body and soul, both are yours, i will never let anyone possess them after you..."

Catching her hint, the man finally brightened up and gave in to his desire to keep holding her, happily taking her in his arms.

Caught up in the moment, they leaned in to kiss passionately, the kiss escalated to Rindou grobing her lustfully as she kept moaning his name into his lips.

Rindou moved to her neck, leaving hickies left and right, she opened her eyes for a moment to find herself staring into familiar blue eyes with long snow eyelashes by the open door.

...

Oh, the old acquaintance he had to close a deal with...

-

A/N: Thank you so much for reading <3 (There will be way more Sanzu next chapter cuz i feel bad for him)

@sagephilosophie

[going-to-ikea-for-the-fries]

Bonded Pair. - OCxGhost Backstory.

|| [Part Two ->] ||

pairing: COD OC!Victoria "Whiskey" Callahan x Simon "Ghost" Riley bonus: Moot!OC (Meabh "Pirate" O'Malley) x Johnny "Soap" MacTavish words: 2K~ cw: injury (nothing major or too explicit)

May 2020

“How long until the American comes?” Soap asks to Ghost’s right as the lieutenant is halfway through assembling their camp/nest for the foreseeable future.

“Laswell said he’d come before sundown.” Ghost muttered. 

“What do you think he’s going to be like?” Soap asked.

“I think you should start heading to your spot and setting up camp, instead of yapping. It’s gonna get dark soon. You don’t want to spend the night lying on a pile of sticks, do you?”

“Jeez, L.T., calm down.” The Scot quipped with a chuckle. “I have plenty of time!”

“You really don’t. Sun’s setting soon.” A voice called out from behind them, causing them both to turn sharply, already pawing at their guns. The southern american accent was the only reason they didn’t draw them or shoot at the source.

Whiskey stepped out from behind the treeline, setting her hands on her hips after slinging her rifle onto her shoulder. She was on the tall side for a woman, standing at 5ft8, and had broad shoulders and strong arms.  Her dark brown hair was tied back into the usual military-standard low bun, though a few loose strands of damp hair were glued to her forehead, and the lower half of her face was concealed by an Army green neck gaiter that was pulled up to her nose. 

Ghost wasn’t particularly keen on working with her. But at least she looked more capable than some of what he’d seen come from the US.

She wore the standard combat uniform he had grown used to seeing on the Americans: camouflage cargos trousers, jacket, and Kevlar with the American flag. To keep her warm from the unforgivingly rainy and cold weather, she wore a brown fleece jacket under her camo, which was zipped up all the way, covering her neck and the bottom of her gaiter. She had on tan fingerless gloves, tan combat boots, and a camo backpack over her shoulders, from which hung her helmet. 

“You’re the Navy SEAL?” Ghost asked in greeting as he approached her.

“That’d be me.” Whiskey replied evenly as she reached forward to shake hands with Ghost. 

“I’m Ghost, this is Soap.” He explained as they shook hands, eyes locked into a strong, unyielding eye contact. 

“Whiskey.” She replied as she let go of his hand and turned to shake Soap’s. Only for her eyebrows to knit together and then set dangerously low, darkening her hazel-brown eyes. “You.” She said as she pulled her hand back before he could shake it.

“Me?” Soap asked, his own eyebrows rising up to his hairline.

“You’re screwing my best friend!” Whiskey said bluntly as she pointed at him.

“Am no! I have a girlfriend!” Soap said while shaking his head, entirely convinced of 

“Yeah, my best friend!” Whiskey replied with a nod.

“No? My girlfriend’s name is Meabh and her best friend is Victoria.”

“Right. Victoria, who’s American and part of the SEALs?” 

“Oh shit!” Soap said in surprise as he looked at her. “You’re her?”

“Yeah I am. And you’re the piece of crap that-” Whiskey stopped herself, biting her tongue and pointing a finger at him.

“Woah, you’re nothing like Meabh said you would be.” Soap said with a dropped jaw. “What’s with the aggression? I dinnae do nothing to ye-”

“You did enough.” Whiskey hissed at him through gritted teeth, her hand shaking as she wagged her finger in his face. She seemed so pissed off at Soap, Ghost couldn’t help but wonder what the sergeant did.

Ghost was watching the whole scene go down, the entire situation sending some alarm bells ringing in his head, not because of the animosity… But because Whiskey was loud and feisty. And he already had Soap to deal with, and now there was another one?

He didn’t even want to imagine what comms would look like between them, how they’d talk his ear off.

Whiskey turned away with a huff, shaking her head. “I’m gonna go set up shop. I suggest you do the same.” She told the lads.

“Wait!” Soap said as he stepped forward toward her. “What’d I do? Why do you hate me so much?”

Whiskey looked back over her shoulder, eyes locking onto Soap’s. Then, she looked up at Ghost and, for a moment, Simon swore he was seeing right into her soul and her right into his. Whatever reason she was pissed at Soap, it was bad, and he could tell.

“Just get to work and don’t piss me off. Gonna have to deal with you for three weeks…” Whiskey grumbled about Soap as she turned and walked off, heading downrange to her own overwatch coordinates.

Soap exchanged a glance with Ghost as she walked off, before softly murmuring. “What was that about?”

Ghost shook his head. “Fuck if I know. Just do as she said and get to your campsite.”

“Yeah…” Soap trailed off and waved a goodbye at Ghost before he headed out to his camp, following after Whiskey’s trail.

-

Night 1: 2000 hours

“I was thinking we take turns sleeping. 24 hours in a day, we could trade and do 4 hour straight of sleep.” Ghost suggested over the radio as he snacked on a protein bar.

“Copy that, L.T.” Soap replied, his voice chewed up, a clear sign that he was also eating.

“Sounds good to me.” Whiskey replied from her camp, her voice clipped and curt, even through the radio. “You can take first shift, Ghost.”

“I’d rather take last.” Ghost replied.

“Alright. Soap. Take first shift.” She demanded.

“Nae? I wanna stay up and speak to you about something.”

“No, you don’t.”

“Victoria, c’mon, I don’t even know what I did.”

“It’s ‘Whiskey’, Soap. I still outrank you and we’re still at work. Haven’t given you permission to call me by my name.” Her voice was so blunt and strong, Ghost found himself almost impressed.

“I’m sorry.” Soap ended up saying with a sigh. 

“Save your sorries. Go to sleep.” She demanded. 

“Aye, ma’am.”

It took a good half an hour or so, but soon, Johnny’s PTT was turned off, so, Ghost spoke up.

“Switch to 3, Whiskey.”

“Copy that.”

After switching frequencies, he finally spoke. “What’d he do?”

“Something he shouldn’t.”

“Cheated on your friend?”

“No. He’s stupidly devoted to her. At least from what she says.”

“Sounds about right. He talks about her a lot. Tires me.”

“Bet it does.”

“Then what?”

“Can’t talk about it.”

“Hm…” Ghost murmured. “Okay.”

-

Ghost was supposed to be sleeping. He really was. But with a new team member alongside them, he knew he wouldn’t be able to. 

Besides, he wouldn’t risk missing the shitshow of the other two bickering.

“So, how long have you and Meabh known each other?” 

“Longer than she’s known you.”

-

“How’d you meet?”

“On a ship.”

“Her ship?”

“No.”

-

“So how is it, being a Navy SEAL?”

“Fine.”

-

“So, how old are you?”

“Old enough.”

-

“Where are you from?”

“America.”

“Yeah, but which state? You’re obviously from the south.”

“None of your business.”

-

“You and Meabh ever work together?”

“Yes.”

“Where?”

“Classified.”

-

At one point, Ghost couldn’t help but start to smirk at the way the conversation was going. All throughout Days 1, 2 and 3 of their watch mission, she answered Johnny’s incessant questions with nothing but nonchalant dryness.

He could almost guess what answer she’d give and what tone she’d use whenever Johnny asked another question. 

While she had been sleeping, the Scot had confessed he had wracked his brain thinking of reasons why she didn’t like him and had come up short… And that he wanted to make friends with her, for his bird’s sake.

But he wasn't succeeding. She was cold and stubborn and curt with her answers, not giving him more than a few words at a time.

Even as the questions got more probe-y and personal… She gave him nothing. In a way, Ghost saw himself in her answers.

“What do you and Meabh usually do when you’re together?”

“Hang out.”

“Yeah, but what do you do? Go out for drinks? Go on holiday?”

“We hang out.”

-

“So what does Meabh tell you about me?”

“The usual.”

“Elaborate?”

“No.”

-

“How come Meabh has never shown me a picture of you?”

“I don't do pictures.”

-

“Why the mask?”

“To hide my face.”

-

It’s as the sun sets on Day 4 that she finally gets tired of playing nice:

“You know, Meabh described you as really cheerful and funny… But I don't see it.”

“Meabh sees the best in people. Don’t take it personal. She lies about you a lot too.”

“I’m not that bad, you know? I don’t know what your problem is with me but… I’m just trying to befriend ye.” Ghost can pick up on Soap’s annoyance in his tone of voice.

“I wish you wouldn’t.” Whiskey replied.

There’s a long, long moment of silence before Johnny tries again.

“How often do you and Meabh talk?”

“Often enough.”

“I miss her a lot when I’m on missions… Can’t talk to her steadily…” Soap admits, this time a lot more sincere. “Do you miss her too?

“No.” She replies. 

“No? Do you not like her the same as she does you?’

“I do.” Whiskey tells him. “But I’ve got ways of communicating with her.” She announces. 

“How’s that? Sending a letter and waiting weeks for a reply? I’m not satisfied with just that. Need to hear her voice… and she doesn’t have signal out there in the ocean…”

There’s a sound from the radio, which Ghost can swear is a snort from Whiskey laughing. Then, she speaks again.

“Can you see my camp from where you are?”

“Yeah?”

“Alright well, take a look at this.” 

Out of curiosity, Ghost decides to turn his binoculars toward Whiskey’s nest too, and adjust the focus until she comes into view.

“It’s a real shame that you can’t talk with your girlfriend.” Whiskey said while waving a black radiotelephone in the air for them to see. “I wouldn’t know anything about that.”

Ghost smirks at the sound of her sarcasm, shaking his head, already anticipating the dramatics that Soap would engage in.

“Wait, you’ve got a phone to talk to Meabh WITH?!” Soap’s voice is so loud and high-pitched one would think he just suffered the greatest betrayal.

“Oh yeah, I’ve been speaking pretty consistently with her the past 4 days.”

“No?!”

“Oh yes.”

“That’s it! I’m going down there, I want to talk to Meabh!”

“No you’re not, don’t you desert your post!”

“I’m not deserting! I’m going to you!”

Ghost has to turn off his PTT so he can laugh without them noticing. Soap had been talking about Meabh for forever, talking the ear off anyone who’d listen, raving about the girl and how much he loves her. At this point Simon feels he himself is dating her with how much he knows about her… 

And now, here was her best friend, showing him just how much higher she ‘ranks’ in the girl’s consideration.

Turning his binoculars toward Soap’s nest, he watched the younger sergeant slip out and, under the shadows of the rapidly approaching night, rush out behind the treeline, dashing toward Whiskey’s nest about 2 kilometers out.

“He’s really going over.” Ghost murmured into the PTT.

“I know he is. Meabh is laughing over it.”

“YOU’RE TALKING WITH HER RIGHT NOW?!” Soap shrieked into his own PTT. “Tell her to hold on!!! I want to hear her voice!!!!”

Ridiculous, Ghost thought as he heard Soap’s desperation. How ridiculous it was to be so obsessed with a woman. Girlfriend or not.

By the time he reached Whiskey’s station, after a few minutes, Ghost got to watch a flurry of limbs happening.

And, after a moment, Whiskey came back onto the PTT. “Ghost contact Laswell, Soap needs to be sent on medical.”

“What happened?”

“He tried to get the radiophone off me, so I broke a couple of his fingers… And his wrist. And kicked him in the balls.”

Ghost pressed his lips together to stifle a smile. He shouldn’t be as amused as he is… But God, is the situation hilarious.

“Rog.”

[c-is-for-circinate]

MCU Rewatch #2: IRON MAN 2 (2010)

General impressions: Kind of a hot mess but fun though?

This movie did not suck and I did not hate watching it. Still, kind of a mess in places for reasons that weren't entirely its fault.

I think maybe the single biggest thing that fucked this film over is the difficulty of making a movie about the evils of the military-industrial complex while taking money from the US military. It worked in the first Iron Man, because Tony started that movie as such a complete unwitting villain of an international arms dealer that moving away from that at all was clear heroic improvement. Here, we've already achieved that -- so how do we continue on the path without undercutting ourself?

The main question this movie asks is whether I'd prefer this hyper-capable superweapon suit be in the possession of the US Military at large, or one libertarian billionaire with the self-preservation and thrill-seeking tendencies of a Kennedy. Unfortunately, the answer to that question is a vehement NO PLEASE, and that's not really an option. So we're left with questions that get brought up (who can we trust with this technology, and why?), and no good answers, because the movie got them big US Armed Forces millions and therefore can't just say 'nobody'.

The Hero: Well, Tony Stark remains the single best thing about this film, so there's that at least.

There's a great line of continuity here with the first movie. We've already seen that Tony is over-the-top, prone to too far and too fast and too much. In the original movie, we get to see that channeled towards trying to improve the world -- but now that the goal isn't as clear as "stop these specific guys from destroying this one specific town" or "don't die", there's really nowhere to point it. Add on the fact that he's dying, and Tony is a powderkeg of disastrous impulses and flashy self-destruction. It makes sense. It's hard to watch sometimes, but it's also fun to watch, in a cool movie explosions sort of way, and it manages to resolve messily enough to feel earned but also hopeful. RDJ does a great job with Tony's over-the-top disaster self, but also his quieter moments, especially watching back video of his dad. It's good acting for a film with this many explosions.

The Villain: Painfully forgettable, unfortunately.

Look, it's not like 'son of a guy who worked with Howard Stark, working to ensure his father's legacy' doesn't have potential here. There's room for Tony to see himself in both Ivan Vanko and Justin Hammer. It's just never actually realized. We don't get to delve into comparing the complexities of fathers' legacies, and neither of these two people really have anything to do with the true conflict of this movie, IE Tony vs himself.

Tony himself is sort of the other villain of this movie, with his self-sabotage and his desperation. The emotional conflict here has nothing to do with the actual bad guys and everything to do with him. Unfortunately, in a superhero movie, while IM2 gets points for having that level of internal conflict it really is important for the external conflict to reflect those themes back, which it Does Not.

The Ensemble: Unfortunately underused, except for Rhodey.

Sadly, Pepper got shafted here. Most of her attempts to help went weird (WHY are you charging onto the racetrack like that, what is even happening), and there was a little more shrieking and running than I'd hope/expect from the lady who found and then accompanied the SHIELD guys so skillfully in IM1. For someone who's been promoted to Fortune 500 CEO, you'd think she'd be more...active? competent? Sigh. Still, Pepper's always fun.

Natasha felt weird after a decade of knowing her through other things. Scarlett Johanssen was about 25 when this was filmed and she looks like a baby. I don't know how to square that with Natalia Romanova, Red Room veteran and SHIELD convert who changed sides long enough ago that she's respected and trusted in the organization by now.

Rhodey though...it's interesting. I think it's very clear that Rhodey loves Tony, and is doing his best to be the best friend he can to him. I just don't think that Rhodey, fundamentally, is a very good friend for him. He's a colonel who works in weapons development. He is always, always, no matter what, going to have those priorities and exigencies pulling on him. He values what the US Military stands for. And that's a complicated and in many ways deeply unfortunate perspective for Tony to be dealing with, in these circumstances.

The Plot: Oh no, Iron Man 2. Oh no.

Look I'm not saying it doesn't, for the most part, work. There's just a lot of Applied Phlebotinum in this one. Tony synthesized a new element in his basement based on a secret his dad built into a model city in the 1950s? Like, just sit with that one for two seconds and then tell me hey what the fuck. (I do not think these filmmakers know how the periodic table works.)

Like, the actual events stacked up more or less ok, but because the villains were boring and detached from the actual emotional core of the movie, they just kind of...hung there. It didn't hold together well, unfortunately, although I am sure there's worse to come.

The Franchise: Well, this didn't kill the MCU, so there's that.

I need to write that post about the promises made by IM1, but the two biggest things that this movie attempts to follow up on are the consequences of a world with open superhero identities, and the problems with the military-industrial complex. I already talked about how the failed attempt to deal with that second theme is the root of a lot of this movie's issues, but I think the open superhero identities thing is one of the movie's big strengths.

We get to see a lot of fallout from Tony coming out as Iron Man! There's no superhero secret identity hunt; there are Congressional committees, and there's federal agents setting spies and putting him on house arrest, and there are real-world copycats. Rather than these things all being Tony's Problem Alone, these impacts feel very tied into the entire world. There's no weird isolation of Superhero Problems. Venko is Tony's problem because he's trying to kill Tony specifically, and using tech only Tony can understand to do it. I think this was well done! (I'm glad something was.)

VERDICT: A Flawed-But-Fun 5/10

I don't think this counts as an objectively good movie, but I think it was a fine popcorn flick. (And I know it gets worse. Of course it does.) 50% seems just about right.

[blackjackkent]

Entertained myself a little, thinking about what Lae'zel's reaction would be to Minthara arriving and immediately seeming to bond with Rakha right out of the gate. (Because Lae'zel is wonderful but very young and does not, thus far, have a history of handling her relationship with Rakha very smoothly.)

-----

“Welcome, istik,” Lae'zel says warily. She stops in front of Minthara's tent and squints at the drow as if she were an interesting zoo animal. 

“Ah. Yes. The gith,” Minthara says. She was in the process of examining her boots curiously to determine how they've fared in the months since Rakha stole them off her unconscious body. Now she looks up, eyes narrowed, and then stands, lurching with military sharpness into an attentive, waiting posture. “We have not been properly introduced.”

“Lae'zel of Crèche Kliir,” Lae'zel answers, a little too quickly. “I already know your name, Minthara Baenre, for I heard you whimpering it in the prison of the Absolute.”

Minthara stiffens. “You mock me. By what cause?” she asks coldly.

“Is it mocking to recite a fact?” Lae'zel asks. She shrugs. “You are one of us now, and you will find that we all carry scars of torment. You are not special, in this regard.”

A flash of mental connection. Images whirl between them of the alien zaith'isk construct, of Lae'zel's vision whiting out with a wave of agony. Minthara's head snaps back and she blinks rapidly. “I see,” she says.

Her eyes narrow as if reappraising the younger woman. “We have shared suffering, and I sense we share ferocity as well. Yet you come here with a blade in your tone. Do you fear my betrayal? Your leader and I have sworn a bond of allyship.”

“Rakha has given you her welcome, yes.” Lae'zel smiles, an expression that shows her pointed teeth. “But you are not her ras'til, her ally, not yet. Nor mine. That is a position those at her side have earned. It is not bought with words.”

Minthara raises one eyebrow slowly, analyzing the young gith's words and the weight behind them. Then she smiles faintly. “You speak possessively. Does Rakha know of your feelings for her?” 

Lae'zel flinches. “My feelings do not concern you.”

“Then you might do well to make something subtler of them.”

Lae'zel hisses softly. “I will not be told my business by one who has not traveled with us twelve hours.”

“You spoke to me first, Lae'zel of Crèche Kliir.” Minthara squints thoughtfully. “You need not fear my competition for her affection, child. The bond we share is one of broken minds and vengeance. Why do you not turn your ire towards the boy with whom she locked lips before retiring?” She jerks her head to indicate Wyll's tent. 

Lae'zel's skin flushes a deep olive. “There is no ire,” she mutters. “Rakha made her choice and I abide by it.”

Minthara's lips twitch. “I see. In Menzoberranzan, we would rarely see a woman capable of wielding word and blade, surrendering to a male with no fight.”

“You think me a weakling?” Lae'zel growls.

Minthara laughs. “I think you a young pup who has come to show her claws and assert her place in the pecking order. I am not without admiration for you, little one, based even on the little I have seen, but I care nothing for the schoolyard quarrel you wish to pick. It is based in fear and jealousy and it fits you ill. If you wish to hate me, hate me for cause or do not waste my time.”

Lae'zel studies her for a long moment in silence. When she speaks again, her tone is more subdued - but also resonates with deeper conviction. “Break the pact you have sworn to Rakha and I will break your neck.”

Minthara smiles. “Much better said, child. And I take you at your word.”

[smiting-finger]

[Director’s Commentary] a harmony between qin and se

As promised (to like two interested people lol), here’s my commentary to accompany a harmony between qin and se, some of which has been retrieved from discussions in the AO3 comments section.

CHAPTER 1

This being Wei Ying’s story, the first chapter is entirely an introduction to her. I’ll let the text mostly speak for itself, but some additional thoughts:

She is, first and foremost, a very unreliable narrator when it comes to  herself.

Despite what she says, as a direct equivalent to “number 4 most eligible bachelor in the Jianghu”, she is actually considered to be a solid choice for a daughter-in-law (mostly because of how well she’s managed to hide all her quirks from the public eye). She also has more than one young male admirer because she is, in fact, an attractive lady The main thing working against her is the circumstances of her birth and the related lack of connections/assets.

Auntie Yu and Uncle Jiang have received a few overtures from interested parties already, but they’re still using the excuse of “Eldest daughter must be married out first” while they figure out the quality of offer they can settle for (which admittedly does include consideration of the potential benefits to the Jiang family).

Her embroidery is fine, if you ignore the fact that she’s constantly embroidering unconventional patterns: Jiang Cheng has most certainly received more than one troll hebao, and there have also been many an embroidered flower or cloud pattern that bears a suspicious resemblance to something outrageous (no penises because Wei Ying is a Proper and Good Girl and has never seen one until the bedroom books, but almost certainly an unflattering caricature of Jin Zixuan’s face, and the occasional rude Chinese character - always with plausible deniability, of course).

Broadmindedness is for women who have become disillusioned with the mortal coil. Which is to say: Nuns. She takes another bite of meat: I’m not sure if I was right in assuming that it was common knowledge that Buddhist nuns are vegetarian, but if I wasn’t - Wei Ying is definitely Making a Statement here. (And also making a secondary reference to the Chinese use of "vegetarian" to mean someone who is easily bullied/taken advantage of, which Wei Ying is most certainly not.)

Girls of the era were sometimes educated at home by private tutors, and were also often educated by their older brothers.

We know that Wei Ying had a private tutor (whom she shared with Nie Huaisang), but I also think Jiang Cheng would have had an influence on her too, despite technically being younger.

Being afforded a much more formal and comprehensive education (despite being perhaps less suited for it), he would have shared all of his books and learnings with Wei Ying, and that is why she so often references martial arts/military writings and ideas (much more so than the Jiang Yanli of this universe would, being older) - a reflection of Jiang Cheng’s interests and their relationship as more-or-less-same-age-peers within a gendered family hierarchy.

On Nie Huaisang and Nie Mingjue, it bears saying that their upbringing and situation in life here is just as unconventional as Wei Ying’s, if not more so.

Whereas in the earlier Tang Dynasty, women often openly ran their own businesses, Song Dynasty society had become more restrictive in relation to women’s freedoms, so that had become a much rarer occurrence.

My rationale for Nie Mingjue bucking the trend is that her mother was a capable woman with no tolerance for harem politics, and so ruled the Nie household with an iron fist. When her health begins to decline, instead of risking the wellbeing of her household and single di daughter on the goodwill of the next-ranked concubine, she simply starts passing responsibilities directly to Nie Mingjue, who proves capable enough that her father starts giving her business-related tasks as well.

By the time Madam Nie dies, Nie Mingjue is acting mistress of the house and there is no room to argue that any of the responsibilities should be taken from her.

Nie Mingjue being the only child in the entire household, her father also thinks it makes sense to involve her in the family business, and he starts preparing to find a man to ru zhui (入贅) marry into their family, thanks to the (universal?) principle that wealthy people can largely afford to do whatever they want.

Then Nie Huaisang is born and her concubine mother dies in childbirth. Nie Mingjue, having inherited her mother’s distaste for harem politics and distrust for her father’s concubines, simply takes Nie Huaisang into her own courtyard and sees to her upbringing herself.

And then their father dies, Lan Xichen takes the opportunity to propose marriage to Nie Mingjue (ostensibly as an elegant way to lend her a man’s countenance and legal authority to run her business, but the successive pregnancies speak for themselves), Nie Mingjue accepts and then decides that the new Nie family heir will be Nie Huaisang and there is no one around to stop her.

There’s definitely social disapproval (e.g. Madam Jin’s “I know she’s always done things differently” in Ch 3), but not enough to matter. Because wealthy people can afford to do whatever they want..

Enter Lan Zhan (in spirit):

Some of the original professions I considered for him were physician and herbalist, but the thought of doing period-accurate traditional Chinese medicine research ended that dream within 2.5 seconds.

In today’s terms I see him as demisexual, but in Song Dynasty mindset, there is no “sexuality”; there is “stuff that I like” and “stuff that I gotta do”. So he’s fully committed to making it work for the sake of his duty to the family, but also his responsibility to provide his wife with a decent quality of life. (And he is particularly sensitive to the latter, having witnessed his mother’s experience.)

While he'd initially hoped to follow in his Uncle's footsteps and stay single for life, now that marriage is unavoidable, his attitude towards it is very similar to Wei Ying’s, in being “That's life, we gotta make the best of it.”

He doesn’t fully appreciate the extent of the problem, but:

To-date, he has had very minimal interaction with any sort of same-age friend or peer.

His brother does most if not all of his emotional processing for him, mostly by talking him through his thoughts and feelings. This started as the very-Chinese “explain to your child after every situation how courtesy and social mores preserve everyone’s feelings and Face”, and just … never stopped. Probably because Lan Zhan didn’t have peer-interaction to do the rest of the emotional educating.

CHAPTER 2

Again, while Wei Ying speaks for herself, some general notes:

The grip of his hand in hers is strong, if a little damp. Which means that her husband is either nervous or also sweating a river in three layers of robes: He is not nervous, only dutiful. It is 100% due to the layers of robes and the hot, hot sun.

Red wedding banners … which are disappointingly standard, with nary a tea pun in sight: When their sons get married in the distant future, there are SO MANY tea puns.

Her groom, she notes, has wiped his hand at some point. Which means that he’s either a thoughtful man, or a fastidious one. Or a man who has thoughtful and fastidious servants: Lan Zhan is absolutely the thoughtful and fastidious one.

“Why does the groom look so grim?” someone asks from somewhere to her right. “Maybe he’s been forced into the marriage,” comes the answer: That is just Lan Zhan’s face, he bears no particular resentment towards the arrangement of the marriage. He trusts that his uncle has made the best decision possible under the circumstances and certainly he thinks that it’s better than either of the other options.

Lan Zhan has never had wine before, so despite knowing that the Lan family doesn’t drink, he doesn’t actually know why. This is part of the reason why he drinks the toast (the other part being the social pressure that Wei Ying successfully employs).

When they have children, there are some that inherit the Lan constitution, and others who can drink two whole cups before also succumbing to the Lan constitution. Wei Ying is very sad about this, but concedes that they do come by it honestly.

Lan Zhan’s wedding night thoughts:

Not sure if it A) was a real thing, B) is a modern-sensibilities thing (like many Cdrama leads being committed to one wife), or C) is a "Complying with TV Codes Thing", but I've seen/read quite a few stories now where the husband chooses not to push for wedding night consummation because his new wife will be scared, stressed, tired, etc. This means that the couple spends a bit of time co-sleeping and getting used to each other before doing anything. I see Lan Zhan starting out along those lines, and his consideration would have been much appreciated if his wife had been someone like Jiang Yanli. Unfortunately it is 100% wasted on Wei Ying.

So he walks into the room with the noblest of intentions, is confronted with the shock of Wei Ying, and PANICS:

First there are the Lan vs Jiang family cultural differences, i.e.

The "We Are Always Decorous" Lan family vs the "Decorum when in public, at-home manners very different" Jiang family

Lan "I will only very gently try to negotiate your boundaries" Xichen vs ...Jiang Cheng/Yanli/Auntie Yu/Uncle Jiang, who are personal-boundary-chaotics in very different ways

Second, in terms of Lan Zhan’s general social experience:

He has one (1) friend, who is his brother and who is very emotionally considerate.

He has not interacted with a woman in an intimate/domestic setting since the death of his mother (excluding servants, but that’s different). His experience with women is probably limited to the branch family aunties, and maybe daughters of their social circle who he sees for two seconds from across the room, when everyone is on their best behaviour, and they never speak.

He has never interacted with any person alive like Wei Ying in any setting. She called him PRETTY and TO HIS FACE, she chases people, she has contraband goods, she has POCKETS-

Third, there is the additional layer of shock provided by the expectations Lan Zhan had of what “a new wife” would be like, which Wei Ying is … not.

She was going to be a shy, retiring maiden (I think the “unkidnappable” fact just did not compute and he just mentally shelved it).

And unlike Wei Ying, who had the whole breadth of her human experience as “possible range for how much of a fucking weirdo my husband might be”, it never occurs to Lan Zhan to be curious about her because his image of his future wife is pretty much a dress wearing a face and it hasn’t really occurred to him that she might have any personality - or UNREPRESSED personality -  beyond her role and his obligations towards her.

He had this idea of how he was going to be a Dutiful Husband (making sure his wife doesn't go hungry on the wedding night, making sure that her maidenly sensibilities are respected in negotiating bedroom activities, making sure that she maintains a comfortable position in the household, making sure that she gets the dishes she likes to eat even if he doesn't eat them).

Then they were gonna treat each other "with the respect accorded to honoured guests" (another Ye Olde Chinese Thing), and eventually become a peaceful, comfortable couple.

Almost none of it is going in the way that he'd planned and he doesn't have a Plan B because he DIDN'T KNOW PEOPLE COULD BE LIKE THIS.

And now HIS MAIDENLY SENSIBILITIES ARE BEING OFFENDED-

In regards to Lan Zhan’s Filial Procreative Duty:

It's not that he's unaware of it, but there's not as much urgency for him. He doesn't need a son to solidify his position in the household, his own brother has two sons already so the line isn't in danger and he can always adopt the second nephew as his heir, he knows that WY is only 17 whereas the average age of marriage at the time (according to the english-language internet) was 18-20 for women.

He does intend to try for a child with her eventually (for her sake), but HE JUST REALLY WANTS TO START BY BEING FRIENDS FIRST (*/ω＼*)

CHAPTER 3

On Lan Zhan’s side:

It goes without saying that after Lan Zhan flees his bedroom on the morning after the wedding, he heads straight to his brother for his regular dose of emotional processing.

Lan Xichen spends the entire conversation highly amused and trying to keep it hidden under a suitably sympathetic expression.

And then he gently-but-firmly forces Lan Zhan to go home, which Lan Zhan does mutinously

Upon their arrival home, Lan Zhan only stops briefly in his study before heading straight back out on business (or, as Wei Ying half-suspects: “business”): It is most certainly “business”. Lan Zhan is finding any excuse to avoid her because he does not know how to deal with her and he’s a little bit afraid of her (and the danger she poses to his chastity).

Lan Zhan says nothing to Lan Qiren because it is all too mortifying.

Lan Qiren, who still seems to vaguely disapprove of her, despite being the one to agree to this marriage in the first place: While he hears no specifics, Lan Qiren’s propriety-related spidey-senses are tingling nevertheless, and so he starts to observe Wei Ying with extreme suspicion.

Lan Xichen also finds this highly amusing.

Hence Wei Ying noticing that “There’s something about the curve of his eyes that means he always looks mildly amused…Wei Ying is not sure whether this is how Lan Xichen presents generally, or if it is something specific to her.“

(It’s definitely specific to her. He thinks she’s great for his brother and therefore great in general)

Otherwise, Lan Zhan actually does like Wei Ying, despite all of the shocking things about her (He just doesn’t know that this is what he’s feeling, since he’s never felt this way before :’D).

Also maybe he’s used to the people he likes expressing their affection for him via some level of teasing (his mother, to a lesser level his brother).

Lan Zhan is watching Wei Ying as closely as she’s watching him (or even more so) - enough to know that she’s smart, and that there’s more to her than the incompetent wife image she’s projecting (which is why he’s not interfering … beyond a certain extent).

Other notes:

Wei Ying herself is so fully focused on the branch family aunties and how far she needs to escalate to get them to make a move that she probably hasn't given two thoughts to thing else. So there's almost certainly a parallel Mianmian POV to this story that's filled with constant nail-biting about what everyone else thinks of her mistress and the possibility of Wei Ying escalating so hard that they won't be able to fully reverse the damage afterwards.

Secret tunnel + secret storage room: Wei Ying absolutely finds 193847548495 future uses for these after this story is done.

Babymaking is 100% a genuinely high-key concern for Wei Ying, since producing Lan Zhan’s heir is how she secures lifetime economic/social/etc security for herself (that said it is not the MOST urgent issue at this stage, since she first needs to ensure that there is a safe environment to bring the baby into).

(I am high-key channelling "The Promotion Record of a Crown Princess" and "Greetings Ninth Uncle", here. Dowager is very much the life goal for All Women - when it's not Revenge - as far as my own shameful background in consuming Chinese historical romances is concerned.)

In terms of inheritance (keeping in mind that I am far from an expert, and my main source is a lot of historical Cdramas and Cnovels):

There was some amount of flexibility in when to formally split a family and therefore its shared resources:

If there are enough resources to support a split, then a patriarch dying is a good opportunity for brothers to go their own ways without any negative social implications.

If there's a big enough falling out between brothers or between fathers and sons, then it might happen even while Dad's still around.

If you're collectively funding a scholar to get into government and bring a valuable political connection to the family, then maybe you stay together even after Dad is gone.

And the division of property (including property in common) wasn't automatically an "eldest son takes all" situation either.

For the Lan brothers in this story:

The formal economic rational for them not splitting the business yet is that they need the business to fund a government career (Lan Qiren and Lan-papa were intending to maintain a similar arrangement before Lan-papa prematurely died)

But the actual reason is probably Lan brotherly love :'>

The branch families inherited other things, or maybe a different branch of the business when Great-grandpapa Lan died, but then they fucked it! and had to come crawling back to Lan-papa for a lifeline.

Wei Ying knows enough going in (from Nie Huaisang and general gossip) that whenever the brothers finally split (maybe after proxy-dad Lan Qiren dies), Lan Zhan is walking away with a handsome part of the business. Now that she's seen them in close quarters, she knows that Lan Xichen might even cede all of it, at the end of a soppy and embarrassing "no, you!"-"no, you!" fight between the brothers

Rivalled only by the parallel fight between the Nie sisters about whose kids inherit the restaurant empire, and then Nie Huaisang declares her intention to stay a spinster and adopt Nie Mingjue's second son as the Nie heir and then it's chaos.

Or maybe they can grow a tea empire and someone’s children can stay in Lin An and someone else’s children can go establish dominance over a different city.

CHAPTER 4

Lan Zhan’s side of things is coming through more clearly in the text now (I hope), but some notes nevertheless:

Then, she sends some to her husband’s study to serve him as a mid-afternoon snack, and to remind him of her continued existence: By this point, Lan Zhan has realised that he like-likes Wei Ying, so he’s very much aware of her continued existence already.

This gesture on her part seeds a hope that she might at least be receptive to his overtures, if she doesn’t yet feel the same way about him, and the pork-and-ginger-with-extra-ginger dumplings are him trying to take what he thinks is their courtship forward (“In thanks for the pastries … They were delicious.”).

Growing up with Lan Qiren and Lan Xichen and no other friends, it never occurs to him that Wei Ying might not be fluent in the Lan communication method of “indirect statements from which the audience correctly infers implied meanings”.

That the pastries turn out to be for a plot is a small bump in the road that is overcome by all of the “just for you” foods Wei Ying overcompensates with when he finds out.

“Do you…Never mind”: Lan Zhan would never say ‘DO U LIKE ME’, but this is him starting an overture that is (slightly) more direct and then not knowing how to continue and fleeing the scene.

Wei Ying modestly yields to her husband’s leadership, and that is why they spend the evening stopping in front of every opera singer, acrobat or other street performer who crosses their path: Young Master Lan Zhan conducting a thorough study on “what my wife likes”.

The direct consequence of this outing (as mentioned in Ch 5) that Wei Ying is Seen to have Lan Zhan’s esteem is also very much intentional on his part, because Lan Zhan is also thoughtful and efficient like that.

Other notes:

Since making lotus seed paste is a tedious, thankless task that normal families pay other people to do: My love-hate letter to lotus seed paste. I mostly know about the process for making it because I briefly considered making it myself during the first COVID lockdown. This desire lasted approximately 20 seconds into the first instructional youtube video I watched. But it is still delicious.

They pass yet another group of burly, scruffy men - all of whom are carrying an array of mismatched, chipped and obviously-scavenged weapons: foreshadowing for Wei Ying’s realisation in Ch 8, lol.

CHAPTER 5

Notes on Lan Xichen’s Moon-Viewing Party:

She can at least cow them into submission with Auntie Yu's beady-eyed stare: This is far from the only thing that Wei Ying has picked up from Auntie Yu. If anyone were ever to mention how like a real mother-and-daughter pair they can be sometimes, they would both be extremely appalled.

Lan Zhan has been watching Wei Ying since their arrival at his brother’s house to make sure that no one wrongs his wife (though with a credible amount of discretion, so no one else has picked up on anything beyond the boundaries of what is socially acceptable for a besotted husband). So while she has been busy noticing things going wrong, he has noticed her noticing things going wrong, and as soon as she starts taking action, he moves in to support her.

“Xiao Ping can go.” is the result of Lan Zhan finally finding an opportunity to step in after an extended period of patient waiting.

“Guanren,” she gasps in surprise: The possessive part of Lan Zhan (which is most of him) very much likes it when Wei Ying calls him that.

Lan Zhan discovers this night that he has a massive “bae helping other people” kink, and an equally massive competence kink.

At some point, Lan Zhan goes to his brother for advice on how to court his wife beyond his current “giving her things she likes” strategy, and receives the suggestion that maybe he should show her the things he’s good at too.

This births the “chrysanthemum wine + qin-playing” plan.

Continuing so late into the night that they fall asleep together is not an original part of this plan, but Wei Ying doesn’t seem upset by it and Lan Zhan is not one to retreat when he can advance, so it’s big wins all around.

Worth noting that while Lan Zhan does like his early bedtime in general, his particular insistence on xu shi (as noted by Wei Ying in re: “Her husband has revealed himself to be surprisingly fastidious about the strangest things as of late”) is not actually for health/moral habit reasons.

It also births the “Wei Ying [stumbling] across him in mid-song at an unusually high frequency” plan (which slightly predates the “chrysanthemum wine + qin-playing” plan).

And it is also why ultimate wingman Lan Xichen makes sure to mention poetry and Lan Zhan’s proficiency at it when he visits. It is very much not the only time he does something like this.

Other notes:

Which makes it even funnier that Lan Qiren so very obviously dislikes her: He does not, in fact, dislike her.

But he is experiencing trauma flashbacks from his interactions with Wei Ying’s mother back in ye day (/touches his beard protectively).

He is also burning with the passionate drive created by finally meeting a worthy challenge.

Every time one of his texts comes back annotated, he probably does the Tom-Hanks-Laptop meme of rubbing his hands and wiggling his fingers in preparation for writing his rebuttal. Except instead of "happy", his expression is "happily seething".

It bodes well for her ability to educate his nephew's children before they begin their formal education - if only he can get her to learn restraint and reform her character first!

So he is determined to succeed in fixing this one, this time! (He won’t).

Lan Xichen notices his uncle putting almost more energy into educating Wei Ying than his actual students and is highly amused.

Over time, Lan Qiren notices that verbally sparring with Wei Ying on various topics has improved the quality of his corresponding Academy lessons, and that he sometimes even discusses her takes on texts. This mildly infuriates him, especially when he receives expressions of admiration from students and parents for the depth of his scholarship and teaching.

Sometimes the result is that Lan Zhan gets a sudden and unexpected lecture on controlling/educating his wife and neither he nor Wei Ying can identify what she’s done to deserve it.

(Sometimes this is further complicated by the fact that she has committed too many potential affronts to pick just one.)

Uncoded notes have already been conclusively proven to be a terrible idea, and Wei Ying and Nie Huaisang do not already have an established code (Wei Ying cannot believe that they do not already have an established code; in reflection, it truly is an unforgivable oversight): They establish a code after everything in this story is finished, but they use it so infrequently that they keep forgetting it.

She would have loved to have used the opportunity to discuss Meng Yao instead, but when Wei Ying had mentioned her name, Nie Huaisang had simply hummed noncommittally and made no move to add anything further: Nie Huaisang’s initial reason for not involving Wei Ying in her own counterscheming against Meng Yao/Jin Guangshan is that Wei Ying has enough to deal with in re: the branch aunties and much fewer resources to draw on. This turns into “Wei Ying had better save her energy to focus on growing some emotional understanding of herself and her husband”, because that situation is dire. And then Meng Yao and Jin Guangshan escalate so far that it turns into “this is my personal grievance and requires my personal vengeance, and I will not risk having my bloodthirst restrained”.

Uncle Jiang had stopped him in the street and expressed his wife and daughter’s desire to see Wei Ying: A brief apology to Jiang Yanli who features very minimally in this story because while Wei Ying visits her a lot, she is also taking pains to stop her beloved sister from unnecessarily worrying about her by not mentioning anything serious at all and painting a very rosy picture of her married life where she “only has your run-of-the-mill teething problems, hardly worth talking about, except could you do me this one favour and send this wad of joss paper over to my residence in your name?”.

Jiang Yanli politely keeps up her end of the social fiction but is, in fact, still worrying. She deals with this by making and sending over a lot of nourishing food.

Wei Ying pulls the bundle out from a drawer and is struck by a sudden and completely uncharacteristic wave of self-doubt. This is odd and completely inexplicable - she’d been so confident in the quality of her gift only a shichen prior; she has no idea why she feels so nervous about it now: This is the point at which any other person might notice that their feelings for their husband run deeper than they’d previously thought (if they hadn’t already realised at many points before this), but Wei Ying is special. Lan Zhan, unfortunately, manages to pick up on the “any other person” part, but not the “Wei Ying is special” part.

There’s a sudden clatter, followed by Xiao Ping swearing and they startle apart: This is deliberate on Xiao Ping’s part. There are branch spies watching!

On Scheming Abilities:

Nie Mingjue, as the eldest di-daughter of a wealthy household who has only ever been second to her parents in terms of authority, has never needed to scheme in her life, and is used to dealing with everything straightforwardly. After she marries, Lan Xichen doesn’t have concubines and Nie Mingjue is too wealthy/powerful for the Lan relatives to otherwise interfere with her, so she never has to change (and is therefore completely unprepared for Meng Yao).

Similarly, Lan Xichen has zero scheming skills (although he will need to acquire some to survive in government, probably)

Lan Zhan has acquired more skills than his brother, by way of greater involvement in the family business and having to deal with the branch families. His involvement with Wei Ying, however, is fast teaching him that he is also very much a novice.

Nie Huaisang, a shu-daughter (although I never managed to explicitly say that anywhere in the text) and Wei Ying, a servant-born foster daughter, have acquired scheming skills due to the precariousness of those positions in life. These include:

Being targeted by and winning power games against people within the household

For Nie Huaisang, perhaps her father’s concubines or the servants loyal to them - either as a way to get to Nie Mingjue, or just directly.

For Wei Ying, maybe some of Madam Yu’s close maids feel aggrieved on their mistress’s behalf, maybe some of the servants resent Wei Ying for having a better position despite being equal to them in terms of birth.

Winning power games against people in their social circles who look down on them (Nie Huaisang for being a shu daughter, Wei Ying for being servant-born).

Needing to scheme their way out of feminine hooligan-related scrapes from their youth, of which there were many.

CHAPTER 6

Can’t find much to say about this chapter. Just that:

Treating Wei Ying to almost half a shichen of her own lecture on the importance of rewarding loyalty to old servants: Wei Ying remembers this with great clarity during the confrontation and associated fall-out (“Loyal people are difficult to come by; I would hate to deprive them of such a precious resource.”).

Miss Cang had been diligently using those accomplishments to slowly and subtly appeal to the similarly-accomplished Lan Zhan not one year ago: On the other hand, Lan Zhan could not pick her out of a lineup if his life depended on it. Wei Ying asks him after the first time she and Miss Cang have a run-in and receives a very genuine response of “???” “????????????” She chooses not to mention that to Miss Cang either.

CHAPTER 7

Lan Zhan received a bit of abuse in the comments of this chapter (:’D), which came as a bit of a surprise to me. I suppose I have the benefit of clearly plotting out my son’s perspective for my own understanding of the story, and Wei Ying’s perspective limits the ways in which his side of the story can be conveyed, so that’s what I’ll address.

Lan Zhan is not angry, his feelings are hurt.

He's invested 110% in this relationship and he'd thought Wei Ying felt the same until she hit him with the joke about divorce, and now it's like "she's built herself an exit strategy, is standing with one foot out the door and none of my feelings or actions-to-date have mattered enough to outweigh that".

For any Legend of Minglan viewers, the parallel with Gu Tingye’s “You’re leaving yourself an escape route!!” is very much intentional.

You can see a bit of this hinted at in Lan Zhan’s “You don’t even know”, which indicates that all of Wei Ying’s theories on what she has done are wrong.

While Lan Zhan is particularly sensitive about divorce for some understandable mother-related reasons (which means that there's an additional "how could she think that of me? does she know me at all?" in there), he has an additional contextual defence: most women would not joke about divorce, at least before the marital relationship is solid enough that everyone knows it’s obviously a joke.

Meanwhile, Wei Ying has thrown the joke out there on the back of some solid evidence that she has some real viable alternatives for supporting herself, so for all Lan Zhan knows, she might actually go.

Given his limited emotional-management tools, Lan Zhan is working it out in the best way he knows how:

Firstly going to see his brother

Secondly by hiding away and nursing his wounds while he awkwardly tries to process his feelings, calms down, takes stock of the situation and decides what he wants to do about it.

He can't actually come out and say "I'M UPSET BECAUSE YOU DON'T LOVE ME!", hence: making his brother promise not to tell her, and his brother agreeing because lol yes that's quite embarrassing.

So we can see in: “But her efforts are only met with her brother-in-law - while smiling in a way that seems as if he’s laughing at her even more than usual - simply telling her not to worry, and that his brother’s anger will doubtlessly burn itself out any day now“ that:

Firstly, the problem is something that Lan Xichen can be amused about. We’ve already mentioned the embarrassment factor, but beyond that, the nature of the problem is not that serious. Lan Zhan in the throes of heartbreak is melodramatically thinking “SHE DOESN’T LOVE ME”, but Lan Xichen is astute enough to suspect that Wei Ying is maybe a bit emotionally dense, and is probably not as unmoved as all that.

Secondly, Lan Xichen recognises that the problem is something that Lan Zhan needs space to work through himself, and that there’s nothing to be done on Wei Ying’s side.

Mianmian’s “refusal to tell Wei Ying” is explained in Ch 8, but it’s worth noting here that loyal maidservant Mianmian would never refuse to tell Wei Ying something important. What actually happens of course is that Mianmian keeps insisting that Lan Zhan is in love with Wei Ying, and Wei Ying keeps refusing to believe it and then she finally says “Fine! Don’t tell me then!” and Mianmian is like /o\

Susu genuinely doesn’t know though, lol. She’s a bit younger, not as emotionally mature.

Nie Mingjue also genuinely doesn’t know (Lan Xichen hasn’t told her because he knows she’d just call Lan Zhan an idiot to his face).

Nie Huaisang does know, but after hearing about Mianmian’s valiant attempts, she decides it would be better to take a more slowly-slowly angle and show Wei Ying how much Lan Zhan likes her instead. With mixed results.

Even given all the above, Lan Zhan is very much invested in protecting Wei Ying’s public standing and reputation:

We can see this in his insistence that she stays at home, so she doesn’t become a convenient target or sacrificial fall-guy  during the family proceedings.

Nie Mingjue further explains his fears in her conversation with Wei Ying about the Lan elders and their treatment of Lan Zhan’s mother vs herself.

We can also see it in “While he does not ignore her, precisely, Lan Zhan also never lingers in her company a moment longer than strict decorum would require”: Lan Zhan is still demonstrating to the servants and the public that, at the very least, her position as his wife should be respected and all related benefits afforded to her.

And of course he’s still sleeping in their bedroom.

Both the Lan brothers underestimate the emotional impact that this will have on Wei Ying, because neither of them has correctly understood how emotionally invested she is or how emotionally invested she realises she is. (In their defence: neither has she.)

This assumption is shored up by the way that she stays pretty upbeat and flippant, especially in the way she goes about trying to make amends. Not yet understanding her, they take this to mean that she’s feeling sorry and a little awkward, but otherwise is unaffected.

Lan Zhan’s points of realisation that he's hurt her are "Forgive me anyway - I can't bear it" and finding her curled up in bed. “I have an engagement” is true, but it is also him needing some space to process this new knowledge. At this point he:

half-caves to the decision that he'll just love her anyway and not give her any excuse to leave, and

half-comes to the realisation that actually, maybe Wei Ying really doesn't know about his feelings or her own, so he's going to need to recalibrate.

There were a few comments along the lines of “this could have been resolved through direct communication”, and while that’s true to some extent, I feel like direct communication in the context of relationships and feelings is a very modern-Western value that doesn’t necessarily have the same application here.

I do fully accept that despite its setting, this is a modern story, for a modern audience. But even so I think the non-modern setting and context (in addition to Lan Zhan’s particular personal situation) make it a little unfair to blame Lan Zhan for not starting a heart-to-heart outpouring of feelings. (Though of course this is my personal opinion.)

Even in my modern-but-still-Asian family, there’s a much stronger culture of being expected to read unspoken meaning from social situations, and in turn being able to expect that other people do the same. The cultural conflict is, as Jay Chou once sang in the song “Cliff of Love” (lololololol): You say that I am like a child, delighting in always leaving you guessing. I say that you’re the one who is like a child, always needing me to spell things out for you.

Semi-relatedly, I think there’s a “child of asian parents” meme about your parents apologising by bringing sliced fruit to you instead of saying anything with words. I have imputed this to Wei Ying and Lan Zhan.

In very general terms, I would also say that we as a Chinese family have a much weaker culture of “you did this thing that violates my boundaries, I will tell you and expect you to change your behaviour” and a much stronger culture of “you did this thing to violate my boundaries, I must manage myself so that unacceptable boundary violations do not happen in future”. I have on some level imputed this to Lan Zhan.

There is also a much stronger culture of avoiding things that are embarrassing (as the person who might be embarrassed, as the person who might cause someone else to be embarrassed, and as a bystander who might worsen the embarrassment by bearing witness). There’s a lot of “not mentioning and just moving past these things by unspoken agreement”. I have on some level imputed this to … everyone in this story. 

The entire story, but this sex scene in particular, have been my manifesto on My Beef with Historical CNovels (which I recognise is sometimes about censorship and not the authors’ artistic vision). In terms of the sex scene this includes, but is not limited to:

Only the dudes or top dudes being horny or up for it (or being the 80 in an 80/20 split in who is horny/up for it)!

The relative passivity of ladies/bottom dudes in bed!

JADE STICKS (didn’t manage to get a reference to CHERRY NIPPLES in, but THOSE TOO)!

Lack of preparation and the resultant pain!

The lady/bottom “not being able to get out of bed for 3 days afterwards”!

The fun relationship tension/dynamics disappearing after a pivotal point where the couple variously gets together/gets married/has sex!

CHAPTER 8

Without guidance from questions in the comments, some general notes:

“It matters not,” he murmurs when they break apart: This is Lan Zhan both recognising that Wei Ying is not mentally/emotionally ready to believe the actual answer, and also genuinely meaning that it doesn’t matter anymore.

It’s also probably quite obvious right now that this Lan Zhan knows he’s not very verbally demonstrative and so he compensates with physical affection instead.

This also means that he’s very cuddly with their children when they’re born, and 100% takes A-Yuan everywhere with him, including on business.

While Lan Zhan directs her from his place behind her, seated with his chest pressed flush against her back: Lan Zhan would have been one of those children who is independent and standoffish in public, but a total cuddlebug with his mum in private. And so in addition to the above, the result of being touch-starved for over a decade following his mother’s death means that he fuses himself to Wei Ying at every (private) opportunity. It’s not that he doesn’t touch her in public, but it’s all very hand-on-elbow proper and decorous - until the moment they cross into a place with any amount of privacy and then FWOOM.

Wei Ying has wondered more than once whether she might one day bully Lan Zhan into sitting in the circle of her arm, while she appreciates fine wine as the ancestors intended: It definitely happens, and takes minimal-to-none bullying.

If her friend is suspicious enough of Meng Yao to interfere in her sister’s household, limit Meng Yao’s access to Nie Mingjue and attack Meng Yao’s father, then why has she done nothing to Meng Yao herself?: Nie Huaisang started out leaving Meng Yao every opportunity to come clean about what Jin Guangshan wanted her to do. If Meng Yao had had a change of heart and done this at any point while her disruptions to the household were still minor, Nie Huaisang would have happily worked with her to get her due from the Jin family (and then relocated her to somewhere suitably removed from Lan Xichen). But then Meng Yao proves that she is willing to completely sell Nie Mingjue out for her own gain, and now Nie Huaisang is giving her enough rope to hang herself.

And so Wei Ying spends the latter part of the evening half-lying on Lan Zhan’s bare chest: This behaviour begins as the result of Wei Ying misunderstanding something she hears (probably from Uncle Jiang’s men) about post-nut clarity. But it is in Lan Zhan’s interests to encourage it, and it doesn’t actually impede the thought process, so it continues.

“I didn’t mean to,” Nie Huaisang says in a small voice, to no one in particular: Going to leave this open as to whether Nie Huaisang is telling the truth or not.

The coroner’s report will attribute the cause to a combination of the incense burning in the room and the herbal tonic that he has been taking to replenish his yang qi for the past year: Meng Yao’s last gift to a father she has known all along was using her too.

[tohwitchesduels]

SECOND ROUND OF WITCHES DUELS - Battle 13: Bria vs Hunter

Disclaimer: This is not a popularity contest or which character you prefer, in this tournament, you decide who is stronger/better/smarter/etc. opponent.

information for both opponents under the cut to those who don't know what they can do in their battle:

Hunter:

Hunter "Insert your preferred surname/s for him", also known as a former and the youngest Golden Guard in history, head of the Emperor's Coven, Emperor Belos's right-hand man. One must know that unlike other contestants (aside from Luz) he's not constricted to specific covens and tracks since as a former leader of the coven that allows all kinds of magic, Hunter will have expertise in all types of coven magic as well, and he's also very dedicated to studying wild magic.

Hunter knows what Bria did to Gus and certainly doesn't like her. He's more than willing to put her in the ground where she belongs for manipulating and bullying his little bro.

Hunter himself was also known as a genius teen prodigy and is undeniably a child soldier who was raised by both hell and the library to get to the very top. While he was born magicless, it did not stop him from earning his title as the right-hand man of the most powerful witch of the Boiling Isles. Hunter spends days and nights both training and learning everything about magic both as a duty and as fun. He's incredibly knowledgeable regarding all kinds of magic, meaning it's hard to actually surprise him with anything. And since he's a child soldier raised in a magical military with no magic by himself, Hunter had to survive hell even worse than some of the adults that also were part of this coven went through, and he survived it all. Hunter has already been to countless witches' duels beforehand, he made it several times through a maze full of traps, and judging by how he calls getting from the top to the bottom of the mountain alive "a classic", this might as well suggest that this Hunter's version of "summer camp", as he did that numerous times and he considers it "fond memories". Hunter has the most experience among all participants when it comes to battling, because you know Belos never gave him a break or easy time and for Hunter to be where he is today is all thanks to his strength, intelligence, and resilience.

Hunter certainly has one of the strongest wills among all characters in TOH, as despite going through a ridiculous amount of pain, he is capable of brushing it off and pushing forward, with his only weakness being Belos. Hunter's willpower was even able to withstand Gus's trauma bubble which specifically puts you through your worst memories and even renders you useless, but Hunter resisted its effect and calmed Gus down instead, despite his pain being very fresh and severe and Hunter in fact not being ok with it, but Hunter keeps on going anyway. One must know it's very hard to break him, trust Belos, he tried but didn't succeed. Hunter even managed to resist Belos's possession for some time, which is a lot considering Belos was his abuser and had power over him metaphorically and physically in that moment.

Hunter displayed throughout the series to have some great athletic skills and agility, keeping up pace with running Luz without breaking a sweat while proving he has experience in parkour and acrobatics as seen in him flying on staff. Certainly, he can use his skills to evade incoming attacks with his reflexes while keeping up with his opponents and close distance between him and his enemies. He also has plenty of brute strength at his disposal as well, considering he managed to shatter falling debris by just swinging his staff in one hand.

Hand-To-Hand Combat - Hunter has proven to be efficient in hand-to-hand combat throughout the series. While Hunter overall plays more on defense as a protector rather than offense, he is not afraid to throw a punch. This post goes more in-depth about Hunter's proficiency in staff-wielding, but I will explain some of it here too. Hunter as a trained soldier and experienced martial artist has his body be his weapon. He knows how the body works and has great control over it. He defeated both Luz and Eda in his debut with a quick kick while evading their attack, straight-up toyed with Kikimora and had to be put to sleep to be restrained by coven scouts as he was still fighting and kicking. This also gives him a huge advantage against other competitors who are used to fighting across distance, whereas Hunter fights at a close range.

Back in EC Hunter learned how to be smart, resourceful, and strong, and as I've mentioned before multiple times, he's a child soldier. His opponents usually underestimate him, but he's not the one to be crossed. His victories compromise of defeating Eda and Luz on 2v1 in his debut; immediately defeating Luz in HP once he's recovered; defeating Kikimora in HP; and Tying with Amity in EL after being physically and mentally exhausted, in 2v1 with King (who was rather defeated by Hunter in this duel), while wielding a completely new staff and restraining himself to not kill her but just getting the key; winning flyer derby game on his first try; catching Darius off-guard (which is a feat with Darius's great reflexes); making a strong glyph combo on his very first try; resisting Gus's trauma bubble; kicking ass during Hexside against EC battle; he was defeated twice by coven scouts, which while fair, was also due to his poor condition and the second time he had to be put to sleep to be restrained; handling abomatons and scouts with rest of the Hexsquad during S2 finale; standing his ground and protecting Hexsquad from Belos while being severely weakened in KT; breaking through Willow's vines in FtF with his freshly awakened powers.

Hunter now is sub-merged with Flapjack meaning he does not require staff anymore to cast spells as magic now comes from within. What's more, I allow Hunter to also levitate/fly without the help of any staff. This is more of a fanon ability, but it's supposed to connect him to having the powers of a palisman (but no, he can't turn into a staff, nor is wooden) and abilities of a palisman are usually just enhanced abilities of the holder, meaning flight is in capacity of any witch, but all of them utilise staff since flight on its own is probably hard spell to pull off, but Hunter should do just fine for the sake of this tournament. During this fight, he can't use Waffles anyway.

Flash Step - Hunter's trademark and iconic spell. It functions as a high-speed technique letting Hunter travel at the speed of light creating an illusion of teleporting. It allows Hunter to quickly get from one place to another which can be used for either evasion or quick offense as demonstrated perfectly in his fight with Kikimora by him avoiding her attacks without many issues while being capable of closing the distance between them. He can also use this ability to help out his allies, granted his speed is decreased slightly.

Comet Charge - a stronger version of Flash Step. Hunter was surrounded by an outburst of energy charges with his high speed and big force. It can be used to break through any obstacles as demonstrated when Hunter broke through Willow's stronger vines with it or to fly across the air as shown in ST.

Resistance Spell - demonstrated in ST. Hunter managed to be sub-merged with the parts of boiling sea without either harming himself or King (and since Hunter doesn't know about being Grimwalker or King being a Titan, it's not like he could assume if they would survive contact with boiling water without a scratch) meaning Hunter can cover himself in magic preventing from damage like burns or high pressure, and the spell could potentially be used to allow Hunter to breathe underwater and resist hard strikes.

Block Spell - demonstrated in HP and not only that, but Hunter can also block blasts of energy. Since he's now fused with Flapjack, I can imagine him blocking blasts with just his hands now, which seems to be possible considering his resistance spell mentioned above. Still, he could also probably utilise other tools to do the same like a witch's staff or weapon of his choosing.

Underground Escape - theorized ability of mine, but I assume Hunter could potentially use plant magic to escape being buried alive and maybe even transport himself with plants as demonstrated when he saved Luz. Still, it's just pure speculation so take this with a grain of salt.

Tool Creation - as demonstrated in ST, Hunter can create weapons (and possibly other kinds of tools to help him in battle) from thin air (by conjuring air into flesh and then into the tool). On-screen he showed he can create swords, but I extend this ability for him to be able to also create staffs and spears to help him in combat without a witch's staff. I also assume Hunter can wield different kinds of weapons considering coven scouts are shown to use weapons in Agony of the Witch and Hunter's prototype shows him with swords, which could suggest he knows how to fight with a sword.

Tying Spell - demonstrated in HP where Hunter restrained Luz and tied her up. It can be very useful to disarm his opponents during matches.

Battle Armor - demonstrated in ASIAS where he changed his sports attire into his GG armor. I assume Hunter in general can conjure up any clothes of his choosing with magic if he manages to also get a hands-on sports outfit and school uniform. He did say in Dana's Livestream that he had full armor on when testing Flapjack, so I can imagine that during battles, Hunter would create armor for himself to better withstand any damage coming his way.

Laser Bolt - if both HP, Luz, and EL are anything to go by, Hunter can shoot lightning-like lasers at his opponents.

Lightning Strike - demonstrated in EL, which is a stronger version of laser bolt, Hunter is capable of shooting multiple lightning bolts at his opponents and spread even across the battlefield as demonstrated when fighting Amity and King.

Barrier Spell - is not demonstrated in the show itself but in storyboards of Yasmin Khudari, where Hunter could create a force field to shield Willow from falling debris. In the final product, he just used his own brute strength and staff to protect Willow rather than magic, but I will allow this spell meaning Hunter can create barriers that can withstand heavy hits and create them anywhere he desires.

Flesh-Eating Plant - this is more of a speculation rather than a confirmed fact. Still, I rewatched ST, and Luz and Eda weren't originally standing in the flesh-eating plant until GG showed up, so I decided to be funny and say he actually made this plant himself to taunt them, especially since he also knew what it does (which also shows his expertise in plants among many things). Hunter in battles can utilise flesh-eating plants to set traps across the battlefield to both harm and distract his opponents.

Telekinesis - one of GG's trademark ability back when he still had artificial staff (but I don't see why he would no longer know this spell anymore and more so just didn't use it as he didn't feel like it) in which Hunter can move objects with his mind. The objects can be multiple, of big size, and even go as far as lifting other people. Hunter can utilise this ability to change his surroundings, throw projectiles of various sizes, and even push back people with just telekinesis alone.

Sand Blast - demonstrated in his fight against Luz in ST. Hunter can create sandblasts and waves during battles to use as offensive pushback against his opponents or even defensively to push them back.

Sand Construct - demonstrated in ST briefly where Hunter created a platform made out of sand for Luz and Eda to take a good look at the boiling sea. I imagine Hunter using this technique to create bridges, pathways, walls, and columns to move more easily across the battlefield, to defend himself, or to push around his opponents.

Rock Fist - demonstrated in EL against Amity. Hunter can create giant fists made out of rock (though I would also allow a version in which he can create fists out of ice, but it's one and the same attack) which can deal a serious uppercut.

Earth Magic - demonstrated in both his fight against Amity and against Luz and Eda, in which Hunter managed to make the ground move Luz and Eda to the boiling sea and create a crack from which rock fist came. I can also imagine Hunter creating boulders from the ground in a similar fashion and possibly tossing them around with his telekinesis as well, which makes sense since it seems to be a spell of construction coven, and as former covenhead of all covens, Hunter would be aware of it.

Water Magic - demonstrated in his introduction in ST in which Hunter manipulated huge chunks of boiling water for his flashy entrance. I can imagine Hunter telekinetically pulling large bodies of water in the forms of torrents and waves to attack his opponents or to defend himself (in a similar fashion to a proficient waterbender much like Amity does with her abominations). He can utilise cold and boiling water to also deal extra damage with scalds.

Aqua Jet - Hunter can cover himself in a body of water (cold or boiling) and charge at his opponents as a form of attack.

Water Hand - demonstrated in ST, Hunter can create a giant hand of cold/boiling water. He utilised it in the show as a form of transportation, but I can imagine Hunter using the hand in the battle for both offensive and defensive purposes. He could also potentially create the same effect with abomination goo, judging by how Hunter's water hand technique is very reminiscent of Amity's abomination hand.

Wall Of Vine And Ice - demonstrated with Luz's glyphs. Still, I can imagine Hunter pulling out the same trick even without them considering he studies wild magic and normal magic relentlessly. Hunter can create a wall of ice and thick vines that can block strong attacks. This is demonstrated in HM when defending Luz from Belos's attack.

Link to more of Hunter's capabilities here

Bria:

Bria specializes in construction magic without any signs of being interested in other tracks, especially considering she considers them "inferior".

On one hand, Bria is glad she gets to battle the former golden guard. To her, it's rather honorable and feeds her ego. At the same time, she also doesn't take Hunter seriously and is more than willing to tilt him to not hold back and do his worst so she can have satisfaction in beating him. She absolutely thinks she can take him in a fight.

Bria is an absolutely skilled witch who prefers brute strength and talent over anything. She isn't however easy to fool or intimidate. She's daring and adventurous along with being ambitious. She can also be two-faced and deceitful by appearing nice and fair only to drop the facade the moment she has high ground or no interest in playing nice. She may however struggle from PTSD caused by Gus, so while she's not easy to intimidate, she could potentially end up being triggered by events considered "supernatural" or near Gus, or if she feels like losing her powers.

Bria's tool in this tournament, independent of whether or not other competitors also possess it is her sword. She can utilise it in combat or to cut through things standing in her way like bushes.

Bria may or may not have galder stones with her to enhance her magic.

Rock Spike - Bria is capable of creating a rock spike that can be used for offensive purposes. It is also proven to be quite destructive as seen in TTLGR.

Rock Pillar - Bria is capable of creating rock pillars of various lengths and sizes. She's also capable of creating pillars within the pillars she created. Said ability could be used if Bria needs a high ground, for defensive purposes to block attacks, potential transport, or even offensive purposes.

Earth Capture - Bria is capable of encasing her opponents on Earth as she demonstrated in TTLGR when she restrained a Slitherbeast. The move could be considered a finishing blow unless Bria's opponent has enough brute force (and by that, I mean a lot, stronger than Slitherbeast) to burst through her trap. She would usually utilise said ability if she assumes her opponent can't fight back, however.

Link to more of Bria's capabilities here

Link to return to the Masterpost

[andydrysdalerogers]

Cross-Checked ~ Chapter 23

Andy Barber x OFC Leighton "Leia" Andrews

Summary:

Andy Barber is having the best year of his life. His game is on point. It’s gets to play with his best friend and his fiancé just... dumped him?!. 

Reeling from a sudden change in status, Andy decides it’s time to just focus on hockey. Until his best friend's sister comes out with news that rock the entire organizations world., 

Andy has always carried a torch for the untouchable Leighton but in her hour of need, is now the time to shoot and score or risk getting cross - checked again? 

Warnings: Cheating (but not by the MCs); slow burn; friends to lovers eventually; SMUT!; pregnancy; jealousy; handsome goalies, evil exes...

I do NOT give permission for my work to be translated or reposted on here or any other site, even if you give me credit. DO NOT REPOST MY FICS. Reblogs, comments, likes, and feedback ALWAYS appreciated

Dividers by @firefly-graphics

Banners by me!

Previous: Chapter 22 - This is MY Family

Series Masterlist // Main Masterlist

Chapter 23 – She's Ours 

Andy 

Growing up, we used to be a threesome. But when we graduated from high school, Luke and I went to Boston University. Lloyd Hansen decided to go to play football for Harvard and then enlisted in the military.  

(By the way, nobody goes to Harvard to play football. But Lloyd has always been the exception.) 

It was hard to keep in touch with him when he was undercover or on a mission. But whenever he came home, I made sure I had time. That he came to a game.  

Lloyd Hansen has always had my back. That’s why I knew he was the only call I could make.  

“You’re exes are pieces of work, Barber.” Lloyd popped the candy from his mouth. “I mean, Jesus, what kind of person tries to take a child from a good mother? Should’ve let me run background checks on them.”  

“Like we knew they were capable of this,” I mutter as I take a sip of my coffee.  

“You should have seen it coming, princess.” Lloyd laughed before turning to Luke. “Need me to check out Miranda?”  

“The fact that you only met her a handful of times already tells me that you checked.” Lloyd winked and Luke sighed. “Look, did you find anything?” 

“I’m insulted.” Lloyd pouts. “I can’t believe that you doubt me.” 

“Fucking dramatic Hansen,” I tell him. I ball a napkin and throw it at his face. “I left my girlfriend and baby for this meeting.”  

“You’re no fun.” Lloyd reached down on the seat a picked up a manila envelope. “Like I said before, your exes are pieces of work. Ass-wipe number one, also known as Bret Anderson, started researching adoption procedures and parental rights after the incident at the baby shower. His lawyer, an idiot with very soft security measures, has drafted a sole custody agreement.”  

“Fucking hell,” I look at the copies of the paperwork. “When does her mother come into this?” 

“Right before. She places a call to Japan, about thirty minutes before a wire transfer of $1 Million hits his account.”  

“Why the fuck would my mother pay him?” 

Lloyd shakes his head. “I don’t think it was to pay him. I assume it was to finance.” Lloyd pulls another envelope. “This is where Fiona Mancini comes in. Andy,” he looks at me with a serious face I’ve only seen a few times in my life, “did you know that Fiona had ties to the New York Mafia?” 

My heart stops. “What?” 

“Yeah, Fiona is the niece of the don of New York’s underboss.” When I give him a blank look, he rolls his eyes. “You’re such a boy scout. It's the second in command. She is his niece. And while he wasn’t happy that she was in a relationship that was not approved by the family, he is more unhappy that she is unhappy.”  

“What the, and I say this from the bottom of my heart, fuck?” 

“Yep,” Lloyd popped that ’P’ like it was going out of style. “Fortunately, for you, I happened to have had dealings with this man before. I explained what his precious Fiona had done and well,” he smiled sadistically, “Craig Bailey has other problems then sitting suspended for knocking out your goalie.”  

“Fuck me,” Luke mumbled.  

“Indeed. He sends his apologies for the lies and hurt that his niece has caused, and she will be dealt with. So that part worked out. However, I have copies of everything and his phone number for you, just in case.”  

“Thank Lloyd.”  

“Oh, and he asked if you could go easy on his Islanders. The Rangers not so much.”  

This got a startled chuckle from me and Luke. “I’ll see what we can do.”  

“As for Bret, all the financials and legals are there. I already contacted your attorney for you and said that you might need some loss of parental rights and other possible paperwork set up.  He’s waiting for your call.”  

“I don’t know how to thank you Lloyd.”  

“Some box seats and an invite to the wedding would be nice. A bottle of scotch.”  

“I’ll send two.”  We stand and I give Lloyd a hug.  “Thank you, brother.”  

“Yeah, yeah. Kiss the girls for me and tell Leia that I saw her medical report.  She’s stronger than all of us and I’m lowkey jealous of how badass she is. You better be good to her. Or I’ll kill you.” He flashes me a wink. 

The problem with that statement is that he could. And it would look like an accident.   

I’m starting to hate the country club. The boys and I usually come here on the off season to play a couple of rounds, and the Bruins always host a charity tournament for the children’s hospital.  I think that maybe the only time I come here from now on. Especially if this meeting goes south.  

I turn to my best friend. “Are you ready for this?” 

He takes a fortifying breath. “No but it needs to be done. She’s gone too far now.” He looks at me. “Are you ready?” 

“Yep.” We walk towards the private dining room that I booked for today. The last thing I needed was for this meeting to go public. Not unless it was on my terms.  They are sitting there, waiting, talking quietly. They smile when they see me but Monica’s face falls when she sees her son.  She stands up. “Lukas, I didn’t expect to see you here.”  

“Yeah, I bet you didn’t.” He doesn’t move to greet her like a son should greet his mother.  He just sits across from her, a hard look on his face. Luke is someone who doesn’t get pissed often. But when he does, it's like raining hell fire. The one person he will always go nuclear for is Leia.  

I love that he’s on my team, professionally and personally.  

“Why did you come here?” Bret or Ass-wipe #1 as Lloyd called him, asks. God, his face is punch-able, especially when he looks like a petulant five-year-old.  

Luke shrugs. “When it comes to my baby sister and my niece, their problems will always be my problems.” 

I cleared my throat.  “We’re here to discuss the blackmail.”  

“Oh, Andrew, I wouldn’t call it blackmail,” Monica says sweetly. “It would be an arrangement to bring a family back together.”  

“This family is not broken,” I say through gritted teeth. “My family is perfect. So call it what it is Monica, its blackmail.”  I lean forward. “It’s coercion in the worst form. But,” I sit back, “I am willing to negotiate.”  

“You’re a smart man, Barber,” Bret says. “Now as I said before,” he slides a contract in front of me, “you sign over your parental rights, sign an affidavit stating that you are no longer in a relationship with Leia and the photos will not be published. Monica will also transfer the money to you right away.”  

I stare at the paperwork. These papers would take away the only family I have. The little girl who took my heart between her tiny hands and squeezed just two months ago. I think of the woman who makes me feel complete, my perfect match. I think of the future that I could be giving up but remember that I have the ace up my sleeve.  

“No.”  

A stunned look crossed both of their faces. “What do you mean no?” Monica sneered. “These pictures...” 

“Don’t compare to the financial statements and emails that you shared with Fiona and Bret.” I pulled the copies of the documents Lloyd had given to me and they both pale significantly. “I’ve highlighted the appropriate passages.” I pointed to them. “Proof that you have doctored the photos and are blackmailing me and Leia.”  

“I am a respected member of Boston society,” Monica argues. “No one will believe you.”  

I shrug. “Then I guess we can involve Antonio Mancini then.”  

“Who...” Bret starts but I cut him off.  

“Who is Antonio Mancini? Yeah, that’s Fiona’s uncle. He’s also known as the underboss of the New York mob.” Man, I wish I had been filming their reactions because, while the image of their shock and disbelief is burned in my brain, I would have loved to shown Leia.  

“Andy, be reasonable,” Monica starts.  

“You lost that right when you decided to blackmail by best friend, Mother.” Luke looks murderous.  

“Here is what is going to happen.” I pulled the papers I had gotten from my lawyer that morning. “You,” pointing to Bret, “are going to sign your parental rights over my baby girl and fucking disappear from our lives.  I also want you,” pointing to Monica, “to sign this affidavit stating that you are giving me all proofs and copies of these photos to me and that you will keep away from your daughter and granddaughter. At a time of her choosing, Leia will tell you whether she wants you in your granddaughter’s life or not.”  

“You can’t do this,” Monica squeaked. “Lukas, you can’t allow this.”  

“Not my decision but I support it one hundred percent. You abandoned us Mother, when Pops died. You choose money over being with us. Live with the consequences.”  

“I did what I needed to do to survive.”  

“So did we. Sign the papers.  Let Leia live the life she deserves.” He turns to Bret. “I warned you, when you came to me to ask Leia to move in.  I warned you not to hurt her. Not only did you do that, but you left her when she needed you most of all.  Thank God that she had the right man in her corner all along.” He looks at me. “He worships her. He protects her. He cares for them. He loves them.”  

Bret looks stricken. But without another word, he signed the papers, gets up and leaves. We’re now left with Monica, who’s perfect makeup is now streaked with tears. “Sign them Monica, and I’ll talk to Leia,” I tell her.  “Don’t make me go to the papers with this or the police.”  

“I just... I thought I was doing what was best for her.” She wipes at her face with a napkin before picking up the pen and signing. “Luke...” 

“No, not right now. I’ll decide when we speak again Mother.” Luke turns away. Monica lets another tear slide before she gets up and walks out.  

I blew out a breath. “Did that actually work?” 

“Yeah, it did, brother.” He notices another paper in the folder. “What’s this?” 

“The future.” I see that Luke’s phone is on. “What’s that?” 

“Revenge.”  He stops the recording and then sends it to an email address.  

k.dilaurentis@dilaurentislaw.com  

I stare up at him and he shrugs with a half-smile. “I’m petty. Sue me.” 

I drove around for a while after I had dropped Luke off at his house. I needed a moment to think. To reflect. To believe in my dreams again. I had been so close to losing it all. Yes, I could have survived Leia and Avery being taken away from me, but I wouldn’t have lived anymore.  

A year ago, I thought that I was going to be ok on my own. Just me and hockey. I had no idea that the house I bought we become my home. That the girl I watched grown up and then pined for, would become my girl. That she would bless me with a beautiful daughter.  

I didn’t know that losing one of my best friends would be the best thing that ever happened to me.  

I drove back to my home, relief flooding through me that I would find my queen and my princess there and that would never change. That the family we created would be together forever.  Pulling into the garage, I looked at the folder with the documents all of them had been signed except for one. Taking that particular one with me as I dropped my coat and keys in the entry way, I made my way to find my girls.  

It wasn’t hard to find them. Leia was rocking Avery in her room, singing a lullaby to her as she fed her. I watched silently, enjoying the beauty of the moment. To see mother and daughter together in the most natural way.  

“I know you’re watching me, love.” Leia didn’t look away from our daughter, but I saw the small smile on her face.  

“How is she?” I walked into the room, sat on the ottoman and leaned over to see my girl. She had a sleepy, milk-drunk smile on her pouty lips, eyes closed, dreaming her sweet dreams.  

“She’s perfect,” Leia said to me. She finally looked up at me but frowned. “What’s wrong?” 

“Nothing.” I looked at her before I kneeled before her. “Nothing is wrong.”  

“Why are you kneeling? Andy...” 

“I’m kneeling before you because I have to tell you something.” I took a breath. “I met with Bret and Monica today.” Leia went to speak but I stopped her. “Let me finish. I met with them, and we talked and they signed the papers.”  

“What?” 

“Bret signed away his parental rights and your mom signed an agreement that she would have no contact with us, with you, until you were ready.”  

Leia let out a soft sob. “So, it's over?” 

“Not quite.” I pulled the paper from where I dropped it on the floor.  “This is the final piece. I know you put my name on the birth certificate, but I didn’t sign it. I looked it up and since I wasn’t biologically the father, I couldn’t. But, when I picked up the papers for the meeting, I asked my lawyer to draft one more.” I handed it to Leia for her to read.  

She read it and gasp. “An application for formal adoption? You want to adopt her?” 

“I know I’m her daddy in every other way, but I want to make sure she knows, that the whole world knows, I’m her daddy and she’s ours. Will you sign the papers so we can be an official, on the record family?” The tears flow down her beautiful face and I try to thumb them away as much as I can. “Is that a yes?” 

She sputtered a laugh. “It's a hell yes!” I hugged them both as best I could before take Avery in my arms. I rocked her back to sleep before missing her forehead and breathing in that sweet baby smell.  

She is my princess, my baby girl, our daughter.  

Forever.  

NEXT

@patzammit @texmexdarling @slutforchrisjamalevans @firephotogrl74 @tinkerbelle67 @before-we-get-started @bunnyforhim @alexakeyloveloki @sunnyhummingbee @whiskeytangofoxtrot555 @peaceinourtime82 @saucy-sassy-sparkly @kmc1989 @kandis-mom @lokislady82

[okay-j-hannah]

Episode 5: The Unknown Subject

Doctor Who : Multishot

Eleventh Doctor x Reader

Word Count: 3413

Warnings: some gunshots. some blood. some violence. some virus warfare. some of the oncoming storm. River taking matters into her own hands... inspiration and some lines came from Criminal Minds Season 4 Episode 24 “Amplification.” 

Request: This just came from my own head 😊

A/N: A skilled team of FBI tactical profilers analyze the country’s most prevalent oncoming disasters, anticipating the criminal mind’s next moves before they can inflict doomsday.

Episode 4: The New Heir

Episode 5: The Unknown Subject {You Are Here}

Episode 6: Dr. Smith

The DAU was overrun with representatives of all international governments. The army was instructing team members under the FBI and CIA to form search parties abroad in each country. Agents were conversing with contacts across seas as they tried to get everyone on the same page about the suspect.

SSA Smith was in the conference room having a heated discussion with other leaders and officials. They could all see him fuming behind the glass walls.

Jack was leaning into Donna, muttering some theories about where they were going to be stationed next. “I heard the professor was last seen in France.”

“She crossed the border after the stunt in London,” Donna agreed, readjusting her blazer as new agents caught her eye. “I think John’s talking to the Prime Minister and the president of France.”

Rory was sitting at his desk, glasses pushed up his nose, “He’s been tense.”

(Y/N) agreed, folding her arms and standing next to the rest of her team. The Doctor had been avoiding her as of late. He had become this hardened, cold-shouldered character since the last reality.

It was hard to associate him with her Doctor. He was so dark and strict and to-the-point. But she could see the split second of recognition in his green eyes when he looked at her.

He still looked at her with fondness.

“You think the professor will cook up some new disease?” Donna asked rather morbidly, “After we traced the last one?”

“Well, with the CDC already synthesizing a cure after the last attack,” Rory said, “I wouldn’t be surprised if she tried to create a 2.0 version to throw us through a loop.”

Jack nodded towards the conference room, “Look. He’s calling us in. Time for another debriefing.”

The team walked determinedly through the crowds of agents and military personnel, climbing the ramp to get to their seats.

The Doctor had his arms folded, already introducing their guest before they all sat down.

“Hello everyone, this is Dr. Martha Jones, chief of special pathogens with the CDC.”

(Y/N) nodded to the woman she recognized as a past companion of the Doctor. But the Martha here didn’t know her – she just looked worried with a light sheen of sweat on her forehead.

“Hello, I’m sorry to meet under these circumstances,” Martha said. “The target, Professor River Song, has been developing an unknowable strain of virus capable to compete with our most deadly naturally occurring viruses.”

“She’s already tried that,” Jack said, “We’re creating a cure, aren’t we?”

The Doctor frowned, “She’s struck again with an entirely new strain – in Lyon, France.”

“Oh my god,” Donna whispered.

“Last night, 47 people checked into hospitals with similar symptoms,” Martha began, “And by this morning 22 of those people have died.”

Jack took a seat, “Damn.” He set his jaw, “Were you able to detect the virus?”

“Yes,” Martha said, “Disease control centers across the world have taken samples and are working around the clock to create a new cure.”

“In the meantime,” the Doctor said, “We have to apprehend the professor before she strikes again. We have reason to believe she’s entered the United States. She may have been spotted at the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in Georgia.”

Rory piped up, “But she didn’t attack the airport?”

“No,” said Martha.

“Then what are we doing about other potential mass targets?” Rory continued, “Malls, trains, subways?”

The Doctor sighed, “There’s a media blackout. We can’t tell the public.”

“There’d be a mass exodus,” Jack nodded in agreement, “The panic would end up killing more people.”

“We’re heading to Georgia,” the Doctor said, “Wheels up in five. Thank you Dr. Jones.”

Martha nodded to him, “I’ll be your direct contact for the cure. I’ll let you know of any developments.”

The team all stood and made for the elevators to pack for their coming trip. Martha followed to converse with the military scientists outside. (Y/N) remained behind with the Doctor, anxiously waiting for him to look at her.

“Doctor,” she said cautiously, “Are you okay?”

It looked like he was hardly breathing, “Perfectly fine.”

“You don’t sound like yourself,” she continued, “I can tell you’re upset.”

“Why would I be upset?” he said lowly, “I only learned that a close friend of mine wants to kill you.”

He went to exit the conference room, but (Y/N) stepped in front of the door.

“I wasn’t going to die.”

“Yes,” he said darkly, his voice deep and angered, “You would’ve.”

“But not in reality. Not in our true reality,” she pressed, “This is a dream, Doctor – you know that.”

“How can you be so sure dying in here doesn’t mean you’ll die in real life?” he asked, brow furrowed.

Gone was his dancing fingers and giddy steps. Gone was his childlike smile and eccentric movements. He was tall and cold and angry.

“I trust River,” she said quietly, “Her logic is sound.”

“But unproven,” he said, “We don’t know what’s keeping us here. It could be dangerous to wake up. There has to be another way.”

There was the strange tingle of anticipation growing. The dream was about to zap them to the next scene. They had been off script for too long.

“This isn’t up for debate, (Y/N),” he said.

She hated the way he looked at her like he couldn’t fully see her. He was clouded by the storm that had developed and resided within him. The Oncoming Storm.

Something sparked in her stomach. The reason he became like this was because she almost died. Because he cared about her so much he was willing to do anything to keep her safe.

~~~

(Y/N) was suddenly sitting in a booth in a local Georgia café. Across from her was Jack, sipping a massive chocolate milkshake.

It seemed like a more Jack thing to do rather than this FBI agent character. It almost made her smile.

“You sure you don’t want some?” he asked, biting off the candied cherry.

She slumped into the booth, “I’m okay, thanks.” She looked around to see if any of the other team members were there. “I wouldn’t want to spill on my suit.”

Jack looked amused, “And you think I will? Am I a messy eater?”

“The worst,” she snickered. But her mind was still clouded with the interaction with the Doctor. He had looked so angry.

“You’re thinking about him, aren’t you?” Jack said, swirling his straw around. “Don’t be coy, I know that look.”

She gave a nervous smile, “John?” The scripted lines came out of her easily while her mind dwelled on the dilemma at hand. “We had an argument.”

“Obviously,” Jack said with rolling eyes, “We all saw you in the conference room. He’s just worried about you is all.”

“I know, and it’s infuriating.”

Jack sighed, “You had a close call last case – you almost died.” He contemplated his next sentence for a second, “I think Smith realized that it was possible to lose you.”

“That was always a possibility.”

“But he got a taste of it,” Jack leaned in, putting emphasis on his words, “He had a taste of those feelings – of that loss – and it terrified him.”

(Y/N) could feel her heart snap into motion. It might’ve been a script, but what Jack was saying made total sense to the Doctor as well.

There had been a pattern to all of these dreams. And she was starting to see it.

“You’re making it sound like…”

Jack clicked his tongue, “Like he’s in love with you?” He grinned, “That’s because he is.”

Every dream had a theme of getting the Doctor and (Y/N) together. In the New York apartment there was the tender moment they shared in the coffeehouse. In the fantasy realm he rescued her from an arranged marriage – had said I love you to each other. In the old English estate they were prompted to be friendly with one another in hopes of an eventual marriage.

There had never been a spoken word between them about being anything more than friends, than companions. Sure there had been initial attraction but it was quickly set aside when it was evident the Doctor wasn’t interested.

Or was he.

Perhaps (Y/N) had been blinded by her own efforts to avoid greater feelings. It made traveling with him easier. If she had developed true love with him then the entire companionship would be at risk of falling apart.

But as Jack started rambling on about the evidence he had gathered on why John was in love with her, she continued to connect dots.

These dreams were tailored to the Doctor.

When he wanted to catch River Song for what she did, the dream state changed into a reality where that was plausible. It was set in a crime drama where they caught bad guys.

Somehow the Doctor was in charge. He might not even realize it.

“I’ve completely stumped you, haven’t I?” Jack asked, setting his milkshake aside, “Hard to believe Smith is capable of love, huh.”

“Not entirely.”

Jack looked up quick, “Really?”

(Y/N) shrugged, eyes glazed as she tried to pull herself out of her deep thought. “I don’t know.”

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen the guy crack a smile, let alone express an ounce of affection.”

She became reminiscent of the Doctor that was the opposite. The one that was all smiles and all doting affection. Was her safety really the reason for him acting so different?

“But I do know that I’ve never seen him more relaxed than when he’s with you,” Jack said with a growing smirk. “You bring out the best in him.”

“And the worst,” she said quietly, “Evidently.”

Jack threw a few dollars on the table, “It’s gotta be nice to be loved that much though.”

She wrung her hands, “We have to go meet Smith and Pond.”

“I’m telling you…” Jack said, leading the way outside and brandishing a pair of sunglasses, “You gotta say something to him. The poor guy is hopeless when it comes to first moves. Trust me, I’ve worked with the guy for years.”

(Y/N) walked alongside him, making sure her firearm and badge were secured at her belt. “I don’t think he’s in the mood for any love confessions.”

“He’s never in the mood,” Jack said with a laugh. He slung his arm around her shoulders, always the light heart. “But if you’re so concerned with why he’s upset, maybe you need to talk about it.”

“I tried this morning,” she grumbled, his bouncing steps infectious.

Jack squeezed her shoulder, “Then you try again. He might not be an easy man. But he’s a good man.”

She wholeheartedly agreed with that statement. The Doctor was a complicated, eccentric genius who made things more difficult than they had to be. But he was also the loveliest, most generous man who gave the best hugs.

And they deserved to get out of there. And (Y/N) had to get through to him somehow – even with him being stuck in this arrogant, gruff character.

She spotted the Doctor and Amy through the windows of the local police station. They seemed to be discussing something as they looked over a city map. Jack led them across the street and towards the entrance.

He gave her a playful wink as they walked into their work room.

“(Y/N),” said Amy, always looking her best in her professional attire. She was usually underestimated by the agents, but always made the looks on their faces all the more amusing when she proved them wrong.

“Have you found anything?” she asked, avoiding a glance in the Doctor’s direction.

Amy shook her head, “We’re waiting on some intel in central Atlanta. Our profile has led us to believe that the professor will plan an attack at the Atlanta History Center.”

The Doctor muttered, “It’s a historical museum. A place she might enjoy.” He flashed his eyes toward (Y/N) and they both dwelled on their archeologist of a friend. River would love old museums.

“What intel are we waiting for?” Jack asked, eyeing their position on the city map.

Amy scrolled through her phone, “They’re verifying that the professor was spotted in the vicinity. Noble and Williams are giving out the profile and monitoring the surveillance.”

“Let’s not start a panic at the museum unless we have to,” the Doctor said, rubbing hard at his face.

“Understood,” Jack said.

But (Y/N) had fixated on the scruff of the Doctor’s jaw. It was so strange to see him like that. He looked older. He looked more tired. He looked… like an adult.

She wanted his little toyshop salesman self to come out and make some childish remark about the taste of custard cream or the boredom of taxes.

“Can I have a moment alone with (Y/N).” The Doctor was still looking away as his colleagues shared looks.

Jack and Amy cleared their throats, sidling out of the room with quick steps.

(Y/N) wrung her hands again, feeling the uneasiness of an unscripted moment.

“Doctor…”

“You’re going to stay here when we go apprehend River Song.”

“Excuse me?” the words became lodged in her throat, “You can’t do that.”

He gave her a heated stare, “I’m not risking you getting hurt.”

“Doctor, how many times do I need to tell you not to worry. This isn’t real. I won’t really get hurt.”

“Did that Spanish flu hurt?” he asked, emotion flaring in his eyes, “Did laying in your sickbed hurt you?”

It did. But she knew there wasn’t any permanent damage. It was just a dream.

“I’ll wake up,” she said quietly, “It would force me awake.”

He gritted his teeth, “And what if it doesn’t?”

“God, I’d risk it, Doctor! We can’t stay stuck in here for the rest of our lives.”

He looked conflicted, “But it hasn’t been so bad, has it? The roles we’ve played.”

“That’s all it is, Doctor. It’s all play. It’s not real. I want to get back to our real lives.”

“You’re real,” he deadpanned, uncharacteristically still as he stood his ground. “You’re enough for me.”

She blanked. Her mind sifted out of her ears as she scrambled to form words. “Doctor… there are more realistic ways to have a life with me. You don’t have to dream one up.”

His shoulders stiffened, “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“I have a feeling you might.” She took a step forward, “You can’t create some fictional life with me where we play these characters that live normal married human lives.”

“We’ve never been married,” he said quickly.

“I had a feeling the next one might have us be,” she said just as fast. “It shifts to your wants, Doctor. But what you want here… right now – it’s not what I want. I can’t play a character and pretend that I’m happy with all this.”

His fingers started to fidget like they use to on their adventures, “You’re not happy.”

She lightly shook her head. “I want to go home.”

“You’re not happy here with me.” He said it more to himself then to her.

But she quickly cut in, “I’m happy with you on the tardis. I’m happy with you back in our own lives.” Her hands rose to clutch at her chest, “Please, Doctor – this isn’t right. We have to wake up.”

“There has to be another way than dying!” he said, furious again.

There was a whoosh of air and the pair of them were standing outside of a historical building, groups of people running around in a panic.

Their talk of the real world had them flying to the next scene.

They were clad in bullet proof vests, guns poised in their hands. Wires crept up their backs and into their ears. They could hear the rest of their team asking for orders and the whereabouts of Professor River Song.

“No,” the Doctor growled, addressing (Y/N). “You are staying here while I find River.”

“Like hell I am,” she cried back, taking off for the museum.

“(Y/N)!” the Doctor yelled, “It isn’t safe.”

The screams of the bystanders became muted as she searched for their friend. Seeing her here would mean River was sucked into the dream world too. She could no longer manipulate the rules of the dream.

Her feet pounding into the cement, she frantically searched the faces of the crowd. The Doctor was getting lost behind her, being swarmed by the public.

She cried out, “River! River I’m here!” She kept her finger off the trigger, but her gun was still brandished. “River Song!”

Then in the distance she heard a voice cry back, “(Y/N)?”

She flew around, there at the edge of the building was a pile of crazed, curly hair. She had her own gun at her hip.

“How did you get here?” (Y/N) asked, “Did you get pulled in?”

“Unfortunately,” River said, meeting her friend with a hug. “But I can still try to pull us out.”

(Y/N) eyed her gun, “You trying to get back in prison for murdering someone?”

River shrugged, “This is just a nightmare. None of it is real.”

“Feels real,” (Y/N) whispered, staring at the gun, “I suppose that’s what scares you awake.”

The gun was raised and aimed for (Y/N), “That’s the theory.”

“The Doctor’s not so sure.”

“He gets skeptical when it comes to the safety of those he loves.”

“People keep telling me that,” (Y/N) said, holstering her gun.

River took a deep breath, taking aim, “That he worries for your safety?”

“No,” (Y/N) said, “That he loves me.”

“Maybe you should take the hint,” the professor laughed, “This should only sting a little.” Her eyes flickered to behind (Y/N), “Incoming.”

“Hands in the air!” came the voice of Amy, “I said hands up!”

Jack was right behind her, “(Y/N), where is your gun?”

“It’s alright,” she responded over her shoulder, “I’ll see you guys when we wake up.” She gave a nod towards River Song.

She nodded back, firing three gunshots.

Red hot pain ran through (Y/N)’s lower abdomen. Two shots barely clipped the vest, but the third lodged itself near her hipbone, but definitely into her major organs. It was true, the shock and adrenaline that coursed her system made the bullets only slightly hurt.

She was falling to her knees when more shots were fired. In the distance she could see River Song fall to the ground.

The pain was sharp but was growing into something dull and achingly present. A hand pressed to her stomach came back coated in bright blood. The life was beginning to slip between her fingers.

“(Y/N)!” came a cry from above. Rough hands grasped at her body, pulling her in a way that made her wounds flare up.

She cried out, “Stop!” Her fingers were weak where she grabbed at the arms around her. It was hard to see – her vision was blurry. Her ears were full of a buzz.

But it was the Doctor that cradled her now, “What did you do?” he whispered. “What did you do?”

There was a crack in his voice and her heart began to hurt just as much as the rest of her body.

~~~

There was an insistent beeping somewhere next to her. The air smelled sterile and stuffy with disinfectant.

Her fingers picked at the cotton sheets around her. There was something taped to the back of her hand.

Opening her eyes, she spotted the IV drip. After adjusting she noticed the white walls and old machines measuring her heartrate.

She quickly lifted the blankets to look at her abdomen. After a quick inspection she realized that there weren’t any bandages. There was no evidence at all that she was shot just minutes before. Her skin was clear.

“Dammit,” she whispered, her head falling back into the pillows. They had jumped to another reality.

A crash against her windows had her looking for the source.

There, clad in scrubs and white lab coats, was Amy and Rory. The pair of them kissing like they were hungry for their last meal. Pressed against the window they were unabashed as they consumed each other.

(Y/N) rolled her eyes. Great… they were stuck in a medical drama now.

And something else had become evident. The Doctor might have more control over the dream than she realized.

It was apparent that if the Doctor didn’t want to wake up, then (Y/N) wasn’t going to wake up either.

~~~

Tag List:

@caswinchester2000 @aria253264 @bippity-boppity-boopa @kaqua @cameleonfrenzy   @zerocanonlywriteshit @ryou-cosmos @multifandomfix @mythandmagik @wanna-plan-world-domination @bb-skyrunner @murder-swan @v-gremlin @elisaa-shelby @mxacegrey @onebigfangirl @unknownfacelessstuff   @emilythezeldafan @lilac-skies-xd   @wherethefuckisthething   @science--hoes  @shyposttree @gabrielislovegabrielislife @v0id-sp1rit @watchoutforthefanfics @yeehawbrothers @charleslec-airlines @a-disturbing-self-reflection @beeblisss @xxcandle-flamesxx @megoshh @kneelforloki @technikerin23 @relminnie @violetwaldosia @i-killed-ramsey @stalkerspy101 @alice-the-nerd @dangerouswinneranchor 

Remember to check out my tag list so you’re updated when a fic you like is posted on my blog! Tag List

[duhragonball]

Neon Genesis Evangelion 01

Not a hoax, not a dream, not an imaginary story, and it's not an April Fool's prank! The Neon Genesis Evangelion liveblog begins here!

Man, it feels surreal to actually be doing this. This is one of those bucket-list anime series that I thought I should watch just to understand all the pop culture references. Jojo's Bizarre Adventure was one, Revolutionary Girl Utena was another, but those were a lot easier to track down. Hell, RGU was free on YouTube when I watched it. But Eva was a little tougher to get ahold of. There weren't a lot home video releases, and streaming services weren't carrying it. I think that's changed in the last few years, but I'd heard the Netflix version had some changes to the subtitles, and besides, I was busy with other things.

So a few years back I just said "fuck it" and paid too much money for the old ADV DVDs. I think it's out on Blu-Ray now, but I can't take screenshots from Blu-Rays so this is the play. But that's all prologue. We're finally here, and I'm finally watching this thing, so it's time to see what this thing's all about.

Ah, so it's a historical drama, is it?

I could gush about the theme song, which I've enjoyed for years, even without watching this show, but nah, let's just move on to the show itself. You know the words, and if you don't, go look up "Cruel Angel's Thesis" and prepare to rock out.

There's a little backstory in this episode, but the important stuff is pretty self-evident. There's some giant monster thing that emerged from the water, and a big UN military force is desperate to destroy it before it attacks. Conventional weapons are completely ineffective, and a big chunk of Episode 01 is spent on watching this thing shrug off missiles and shells as it strolls towards... someplace. I'm assuming it's a city or a base.

It's fast, strong, and agile, as seen here when it catches a missile in one hand. The missile explodes in its face and has no effect.

While this is going on, a woman named Misato Katsugari is trying to pick up a kid named Shinji Ikari. The monster attack hits right before she finds him, and he almost gets killed when she pulls up in her car. On their way to the base, she sees that the U.N. is deploying a nuclear weapon? It looks like a nuke, but I missed that line, so maybe it was something else. Anyway, it doesn't work either, but it does blow over Misato's car.

When the dust settles, they push the car back on its wheels and continue. Misato calls for some sort of train to pick them up and take them the rest of the way, and it's like some kind of car-carrier train, I guess. Not important.

Since the nuke didn't work, the UN hands things off to the NERV agency, headed by Shinji's father, Gendo Ikari. Okay, so in brief, they call the monsters "angels", and if I remember right, they said there was an attack fifteen years ago, so this is an ongoing thing. NERV was established to combat these angels, but I guess the UN wanted to see if they could hack it on their own first.

Misato works for NERV, and she introduces Shinji to Ritsuko Akagi. They discuss Shinji as being the "Third Child", so it's becoming clear that Shinji didn't just come here to visit his dad.

I kind of glossed over all this technobabble, but I already know where this is going. There's big robots that can fight the angels, and they must need Shinji to pilot one of them, and he must be uniquely capable of doing so or they wouldn't have bothered sending for him.

The ladies give Shinji a NERV manual to read, but when they show him the robot, they tell him it's not in the manual. So why is there a manual at all? I mean, there's not much else to this operation besides the robots, right? Maybe that's why the manual looks so short.

I guess they were going to slowly introduce Shinji to the job, but the angel is attacking the base, so they kind of cut to the chase. NERV needs Shinji to pilot this specific robot, Evangelion Unit 01, to fight the angel. Shinji is obviously untrained, but his dad insists that he only has to sit in the pilot seat. Shinji still hates this idea, and his dad stone cold doesn't care. Shinji clearly doesn't trust his dad, and his dad stone cold doesn't care about that either.

Misato is the only one here who's even a little sympathetic to Shinji's predicament here, but even she pressures him to get in the robot, because they're all going to die if the angel gets any closer. She says something about how Shinji needs to "confront" his dad and himself, which Shinji seems to understand, like he's known for a while now that this day was coming. He still can't bring himself to go through with it though. So Gendo goes with Plan B.

Plan B is Rei Ayanami, a girl about Shinji's age who piloted another NERV robot, Unit 00. I guess she fought an angel recently, which is why she's so badly hurt in this episode. They have to wheel her in on a gurney. The NERV staff are somewhat incredulous about this, but as Gendo puts it "She's not dead", and if Shinji won't fight, this is all they have left. Despite her condition, Rei agrees to do it, although it's pretty clear to everyone that she's in no condition for this, if she ever was.

While Shinji is still processing the implications of sending Rei in his place, the base is rocked by the angel outside, and it's enough to knock over Rei's gurney and send some stuff crashing onto Shinji... until Unit 01 raises its hand to mimic his own instictive motions. Improbably, Shinji is so in tune with the robot that he can control it from the outside, without even being conscious of it. So this sheds some light on why Gendo wanted him to pilot the thing so badly.

So between this and the pathetic state Rei's in, Shinji agrees to pilot the robot and defend the base. There's a lengthy scene of him getting put inside the robot and sending the robot outside, but I'm not going to do into that.

Gendo's second-in-command asks him if he's sure about this, and he points out that if they don't defeat the angels, then they have no future. As cold and indifferent as he seems, he does have a point. If Rei and Shinji are the only ones who can pilot the robots, what choice do they have? But I'm pretty sure the rest of this series will show that it's not that simple...

And that's the episode. I'm a little surprised they're saving the actual fight for episode 2, but at this point it seems like a foregone conclusion. If Shinji can't win, they all die, and I have a feeling the kaiju battles are kind of secondary to the rest anyway.

The way I understood it, this show started out like a fairly typical Sentai/Kaiju/Whatever-You-Call-It TV series. Kids in colorful suits, they hop in giant robots, which are the only thing that can stop the giant monsters, it's been done a million times. But as the series progresses, it turns into this introspective psychodrama or something. Also, it plays up how messed up it is to send teenagers into a war zone like this, but I think we just saw that happen already, so it looks like the social commentary hit the ground running.

I don't really have much more to say here since we're just getting started. There's not much point in trying to figure out Gendo, even though that's clearly the guy we're supposed to be wondering about. Better to wait for more information and go from there. So I'll see you next time.

[imkumichan]

part 2 of this.

"Yo-you can use me!"

Your words make the woman in front of you close her mouth after you say that to her. She had been questioning you several times now. Asking you about what you know about your uncle. She cocks her head slightly, and you know she at least reconsidering your suggestion.

Ignoring the armed military men around you is hard, but honestly, ignoring Levi's stares beside you is harder.

"You can use me. I'll work with you. We have common goals, don't we? You want to catch that guy, and I can lure him out."

"He's not stupid. He won't just appear just because you're there" the man with the beard and a hat said.

"But he won't do nothing either." you insisted.

Kate Laswell. The woman whose name you just learned a few hours ago glanced at the man. They maintained eye contact for a few seconds before she looked back at you. Then she turned it to Levi.

"You've already seen what I'm capable of. You have nothing to lose". Levi's words were directed at them. But not once he turned his gaze away from you.

You knew he would stay with you. Yet, it doesn't stop the warmth from spreading inside your heart.

[howlingday]

RWBY ReWritten:

SALEM

"Your grace, we will be approaching Atlas soon."

"..."

"Y-Your grace? Um, we will be approaching Atlas soo-"

"I heard you the first time."

"Oh, um, yes, your grace."

"Do you think I'm stupid? That I've gone blind and deaf and must be told things twice?"

"N-No, your grace! I would never-"

"Oh, are you questioning my mental faculties? That I'm in some way wrong for explaining this to you? Is that why you are still standing in my presence?"

"I... I..."

The mighty behemoth Grimm bellowed, opening its maw to the freezing air around it. The servant struggled to hold onto the internal walls of the massive Grimm whale but found himself slipping. Thankfully, there was something he could hold onto. Some leverage that would keep him from falling.

That is until the beam struck his arm. He screamed as he hurtled to his death far below. Monstra shut its maw and continued on course. A smile graced her lips. The flight to Atlas was getting so dull.

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

"Have every available specialist on site."

"Yes, General!"

"Make sure every dust-powered gun is fully stocked."

"Yes, General!"

"Schnee!" The general whirled to his lieutenant, looking her in the eyes. "The Winter Maiden-"

"Is in our custody, General." Winter swiftly responded. "Atlas will not fall."

"For both our sakes, Schnee, I hope you're right." He sighed. "How long before she arrives?"

"An hour at most, General." She followed him as he left his office. "Do you have any further orders, General?"

"Keep the Winter Maiden away from the landing zone. Evacuate all citizens to the bunkers. And as soon as Salem's forces are in our sights-"

"Fire to eliminate. Yes, General-" The was a buzz and chatter on the communications. Winter held her hand up, eyes widening. "General, sir, the east cannon battalion has opened fire, they confirm a direct hit!"

At this time, there would be a sigh of relief washing over the room. People would be cheering and celebrating a victory as the cannons were made of the highest quality dust that the Schnee Dust Company could provide, and each cannon packed enough firepower to destroy two Mountain Glenns. But the room was filled with the best and brightest of Atlas.

"Target still en route, General."

"Dammit all." He growled. "Tell East Cannon to fire again when they're ready. Do whatever it takes to destroy that Grimm!"

"Yes, General." She tapped her earpiece. "East Cannon Battalion, come in." She waited. "East Cannon Battalion, respond!" She waited less. "East Cannon-"

"Schnee." A hand landed on her shoulder. She looked to the screen ahead and shuddered in horror at what she saw.

Hundreds of dots blanketed over where East Cannon was station. The green triangle that indicated their position and communication capabilities was no longer visible. She looked to the general, who shook his head.

"Get to the Winter Maiden."

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

The landing on the east side of Atlas was anything but smooth. Between the pounding cannon fire and the obstructing hard-light shields, Monstra was almost certain to not make it. Thankfully, Salem had already planned for such obstacles, thanks in part to the genius of her servants. Anyone who failed in their tasking would have... Well, she could always use more practice.

The maw of Monstra opened just enough to allow Salem to exit and for her army to be seen inside the Grimm. It was such a lovely day, and though she was a busy woman, she could take the time to appreciate the lovely red sky overhead. When she saw a bullhead land and a familiar face step out from it, a smile spread over her face and she hurried to meet him.

"Hello, James~!" She called sweetly. He held his hand up, ordering her to stop. She gave a giggle. It was always cute when they thought they were in control.

"By order of the Atlas military," he called through a speaker device, "you are not permitted to come any further into Atlas, Mantle, or any property protected by Atlas Huntsmen Jurisdiction!"

"Oh?" She raised her brow. "You want me to leave? That's the only thing you want? Well, I can certainly do that. I'll even take my army with me!" She held up two fingers. "But I have some demands of my own." There was a long, uncomfortable quiet, the kind that only came from the meek and insubordinate, two things Atlas was infamous for.

"First," she began, "I demand the Winter Maiden. Bring her to me and I shall leave. Then, I demand the Relic of Creation, and in return, I shall take my army with me." No response still. It was starting- No, it was beyond starting and well into annoying her. Balling her fist, she walked closer. Maybe they didn't hear her? "I hate repeating myself, but I'll blame these damnable winds just this once. Give me the Winter Maiden and the-"

Black ash and white embers sprayed into the winds of Atlas. From the distance, a sniper cocked his weapon to the ready position after reloading. There was a quiet cheer held around him as they confirm the hit. The general, however, was livid.

"You foo-"

But before they could hear his reprimands, a thin beam of magic passed through his vision, striking the sniper where between the eyes and killing him instantly. The snipers around him died shortly after in the blast that followed. General Ironwood was frozen in fear.

"Really, James?" He whirled to the woman reforming, her finger still aloft from where the beam had been fired. "How rude. But for the sake of diplomacy, I will only kill half of your men."

She rushed forward, her long black dress doing nothing to slow her down. Atlas armaments roared as she was fired upon by everything from rifles to rockets. This, too, proved fruitless as smaller beams were fired from each of her fingers, killing dozens of men. General Ironwood could take this gross decimation no longer and charged the cackling witch.

"Fighting me yourself, James? Is that really how a general should command his men?" He fired into her twice, destroying both of her hands before getting close enough to strike her with his pistols. Every strike caused black ichor to spill from her body, but even as more pistol rounds were fired into her, she would not fall. If anything, it only made her cackle harder.

"I won't let you destroy Atlas!"

"It was already destroyed the moment you chose to side with them!"

"Enough!" The two looked over to see an old woman approaching with a younger woman behind her. In the old woman's hands was a long, gilded staff topped with a blue crystal. "That's enough, James. Atlas has fallen."

"Finally, someone with some sense." Salem said as her wounds began to fill themselves. "And seeing as Atlas still remains in the air, I assume you are the Winter Maiden keeping it afloat, yes?"

"Yes."

"Dammit, Schnee!" General Ironwood shouted. "I ordered you to-"

"Shut up, will you?" The Winter Maiden snarled. "Your bullheadedness is what killed this kingdom. Atlas has fallen, but there is still time before it collides with Mantle. The people have already fled for Argus. This battle is over."

"Do you hear that, James? You still have people to protect. I will grant the mercy of maintaining your dignity as you flee with your tail between your legs." She returned her attention to the Winter Maiden. "Well, shall we?"

"Wait just a moment." She glared into the red of eyes of evil. "Before we leave, I have one request."

"Oh? You think you're in a position to make demands of me?"

"Not a demand. A request from an old woman. I wish to see my granddaughter."

"Oh, a family reunion? Well, I see no reason to not reunite family. After all, I do so wish to reunite with my dearly departed husband, if only so I could wring his neck myself."

"General, sir?" Winter place a hand on his shoulder as he watched in horror as the two greatest powers of Atlas left for the same Grimm that had invaded not so long before. "It's time to go, sir. We... Atlas has fallen."

[azapofinspiration]

So about Corruption…

Who all knows about Corruption anyway? Like Soukoku was well known for their feats but were their methods and trump card well known?

It’s just something I’ve been wondering while reading through BSD, considering how powerful Corruption is and how it tends to be used as a last resort, especially considering how well Dazai and Chuuya can handle threats without it, both separately and by teaming up. Plus, it doesn’t seem like something they’d want their enemies to be too aware of.

So Mori and the Executives of PM (both past ones and current ones) obviously know as he made that info about Chuuya’s past and the gov experiments Executive level exclusive. Hirotsu knows as implied in the Dead Apple Prologue when Chuuya alluded to it while going to get Dazai back. Clearly, he knew exactly what Chuuya might use to get Dazai back and defeat the enemy. But even if not an Executive, he has seniority and looked after SKK when they were teens.

But does anyone else know in the PM?

When talking about SKK, Akutagawa doesn’t mention it (focusing more on just what the two were capable of when they teamed up and their specialties) and while Chuuya’s power is well known and respected - after all he’s not considered both the strongest ability user and martial arts specialist for nothing - it’s unclear if the full extent of his powers is. Anyone who joined after Dazai left would probably have even less than a clue as Higuchi didn’t even know the extent of Dazai’s work in the PM at first.

Obviously, the government and the higher ups in the Special Abilities Division know as they created the singularity in the first place. Or maybe Ango learned by spying on the PM or if Dazai bragged about (in which case, Oda probably knew too). And then the Division would have known how Chuuya’s powers have developed since he escaped. Not all of the Division knows though as Tsujimura didn’t know the details of it until she saw it, though she was told it might kill him.

I would assume the Hunting Dogs probably know (and Tachihara through them) as it seems they were the successors to the Arahabaki project.

Steinbeck and potentially his allies in the New Guild might know because he actually witnessed it (and Dazai bragged about it) and got to live to tell the tale. I don’t know what he might do with that info though.

Fyodor knows because Ace sold out the PM and he gained the info from him. Though then again, he was also there for Dead Apple and seems to have been lurking in Yokohama for a while so he might have made some observations and guesses about it and Ace’s info simply confirmed it. But Fukuchi might have already known before - both due to his ties to the military and gov and due to being the leader of the Hinting Dogs. It’s unclear whether Sigma and the others in the DOA know the full extent of Chuuya’s ability but they know he’s strong.

And then, finally, there’s the ADA.

I think Fukuzawa (and Ranpo naturally) might know especially from when SKK reunited during the Guild Arc, but it’s unclear if the rest of them know. It’d depend on if Dazai told them or not. I’ve seen people’s opinions go both ways on this.

Sure, Dazai likes to show off his Chuuya knowledge but he only really told Steinbeck because he was there. Though Corruption was a potential danger in the Cannibalism Arc, so maybe he did?

He’s never given up any of the Mafia’s secrets from what we can tell (which is part of what gives him leverage over them) and Chuuya especially is important to him so I don’t see him revealing more than he has to.

So overall, while there are several groups and people who might know about Corruption, it doesn’t seem to be too well known, with usually the higher-up levels of each organization being the ones most likely aware of its existence and uses. At least from what I can tell.

What do you think?