#astral-dilemma

[toruskiii]

MR. TELEPHONE MAN!

"𝘔𝘳. 𝘛𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘱𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘮𝘢𝘯, 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦'𝘴 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘸𝘳𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘮𝘺 𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘦! 𝘞𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘐 𝘥𝘪𝘢𝘭 𝘮𝘺 𝘣𝘢𝘣𝘺'𝘴 𝘯𝘶𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳, 𝘐 𝘨𝘦𝘵 𝘢 𝘤𝘭𝘪𝘤𝘬 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦!"

Synopsis: Pick up, pick up, pick up— still no answer. Desperately trying to reach you after your argument, Boothill finds himself repeatedly directed to the operator's automated voicemail. 'Please hang up and try again, baby.' Genre: Comfort, fluff Character: Boothill x gn!reader Warnings: Established relationship, mentions of Dan Heng, a little strayed from canon events maybe, slightly ooc, mentions of prior argument, slight angst if you squint, half of the fic is just Boothill and Dan Heng having a heart to heart bro talk lol [masterlist] [about me]

Boothill cursed himself silently, though as vigorously as he could manage since his synesthesia beacon was malfunctioning. Walking briskly around the Parlor car, phone gripped tightly in hand, he couldn't escape the relentless sound of the dial tone on repeat. Meanwhile, Dan Heng observed him with a quizzical expression, one brow arched in curiosity.

Witnessing Boothill in such evident distress was a rare sight for Dan Heng. The ranger typically exuded an aura of nonchalant confidence, often adopting a "fudge it, we ball" attitude towards life's challenges. Consequences were either dealt with head-on or circumvented through sheer audacity.

Reckless. Yes, that word seemed to define him perfectly. And perhaps that's why he was so visibly agitated now. Boothill's thumb hovered over the name 'sweetcheeks' on his phone, a term that made Dan Heng cringe inwardly, yet he dismissed it knowing it was a manifestation of love.

"May I inquire as to your purpose for boarding the Astral Express today? If your intention is merely to cause a disturbance, I suggest you reconsider," Dan Heng stated firmly, crossing his arms and adopting his usual stoic expression, his brow arching slightly. While he and the other nameless welcomed all aboard the Express with open arms, Boothill remained a figure of caution, especially given recent events, despite the significant assistance he had provided.

"What? Ain't you the one who said I could drop by anytime?" Boothill retorted, his frown deepening as he clicked his tongue disapprovingly. His attention flickered momentarily to his vibrating phone before returning with disappointment when he heard the all-too-familiar phrase that had been echoing for the past half-hour. "Sorry, please hang up and call again."

"I never made such a claim," Dan Heng countered, a faint hint of amusement dancing in his narrowed eyes as he observed the disgruntled expression on Boothill's face. "Apart from the conductor, Pom Pom, none of my colleagues have had the pleasure of meeting you. It would be prudent for you to acquaint yourself with them before boarding."

Boothill let out a derisive snort, his thumb instinctively jabbing at the 'dial again' button as he locked eyes with Dan Heng. "Aw, come on now. The conductor already gave me the green light. Ain't that sufficient? And you, you actin' like a youngster. Do I gotta meet your folks before I can come over and play?"

Instantly, Boothill regretted his words, his lips forming a tight line as he realized he had overstepped. "Well, shoot. My apologies," he conceded, his voice softened with regret as he retrieved his hat and made his way to the nearest couch, slumping down with a heavy sigh. This was his perpetual dilemma— he was too forthright, too bold with his language. His words spilled out before he could filter them.

Boothill was baffled by his own behavior. Apologizing to strangers or mere acquaintances came naturally to him, the words slipping out effortlessly, whether they were genuine or not. But when it came to you, it was as if his internal wiring malfunctioned. His mechanical body buzzed with static, sparks dancing erratically, and his words emerged in a tangled mess. The simple phrases— "I love you" or "I'm sorry"— seemed trapped behind a barricade, struggling to find their way past his lips.

"Forget it," Dan Heng sighed, striding over to the dejected figure slumped on the couch. "But do enlighten me as to why you're here just to make a phone call, presumably to your significant other? Is it a must to reach them while aboard the Express?"

Boothill simply shrugged, emitting a grunt of frustration before pulling his hat down over his face, a gesture of defeat. "There ain't no signal anywhere else, I reckon. Figured your train might lend me a hand, even just a tad."

As the number continued to ring with no response from you, Boothill finally opened up, his voice softening as he admitted, "Got into a spat with my partner."

With those words, he began to dismantle the barriers surrounding his emotions, allowing them to spill forth within the confines of the Express. Dan Heng listened attentively, offering a supportive presence to the troubled man.

Boothill couldn't shake the feeling of remorse gnawing at him. He knew he had deeply upset you this time, and he had no one to blame but himself. Who wouldn't be hurt if their own partner hurled insults at them, especially when all they wanted was to show care and concern? Boothill couldn't help but imagine how he would feel if the roles were reversed, and the mere thought made his stomach churn.

"I think I really got under their skin— no doubt about it," he muttered to himself, replaying the scene in his mind where you were left with a furrowed brow and glistening tears threatening to spill. In that moment of frustration, he couldn't fathom why you would bother caring about him. After all, he was no longer flesh and blood; he was encased in metal, his heart silent, and his tear ducts dry.

He couldn't feel pain or sorrow like he used to. So why should you waste your concern on someone who couldn't be harmed or hurt? He couldn't feel anything beyond his face. There was no need for you to worry about him getting into trouble or getting hurt, because he wouldn't feel it.

It was a selfish thought, he admitted, yet at the same time, it wasn't. After all, you were human— a fragile being whose existence could be snuffed out in an instant— while he remained invulnerable. So why waste your energy worrying about him, when he should be the one worrying about you?

As Boothill drowned in his sorrows, his metal hand tapping incessantly on his phone in a desperate attempt to reach you, Dan Heng listened intently, a somber hum escaping his lips as he nodded along.

'Sorry, please hang up and call again.'

Well, fork me.

"Have you apologized?"

"I want to," Boothill admitted, his brows furrowing with guilt. He mulled over various ways he could make it up to you without actually uttering those two crucial words—an apology. Perhaps he could buy you your favorite cake, shower you with affectionate kisses until you couldn't help but giggle, and lavish you with words of admiration.

"That sounds more like a birthday celebration, Boothill. It would be selfish and ignorant of you to avoid apologizing," Dan Heng interjected, cutting through Boothill's thoughts with a firm reminder.

"But— But it's dang near impossible to say those words!" Boothill groaned, frustration evident in his voice as he sat upright on the couch, dialing your number once more, silently pleading for you to answer. "It's like pulling teeth."

"And that's precisely the issue you need to address," Dan Heng replied firmly, his gaze unwavering.

The Ranger slumped back, averting his eyes and releasing a heavy sigh of defeat. "…What do you suggest I do, then?"

"Apologize."

"…you—alright. Fine."

"But apologize like you actually mean it, not just because you have to."

As Dan Heng's words sank in, Boothill felt a sudden jolt of realization. Apologize like he meant it— not just because it was expected of him. The gravity of those words hit him like a ton of bricks, causing him to freeze in place, his wide eyes meeting Dan Heng's steady gaze.

With a nod and an encouraging thumbs up from Dan Heng, Boothill was left to ponder his next move in solitude. Did he truly mean it, this apology? Absolutely. It shouldn't be so difficult to utter those words, right?

His thoughts were interrupted by the familiar automated message playing once more: "Sorry, please hang up and call again, baby."

A small gasp escaped Boothill's lips as he jolted upright, his hands trembling as he fumbled with his phone. Could it be? Was it really you on the other end? "W-wait—! Darlin'? Sweetcheeks? Is that really you?" he stammered, lifting the phone to his ear and pacing in circles, heart pounding with anticipation.

"Forgot my voice already?" Your retort hit Boothill like a punch to the gut, and he could almost see the frown forming on your face. He let out a noise of frustration, his head bowed as he nervously fiddled with the hem of his jacket, rendered momentarily speechless. "Erm— nah. How could I?"

If he still possessed skin and flesh, Boothill was certain his palms would be sweating profusely right now. A man who had faced countless bounties on his head, vanquishing his enemies with a flick of his gun, and executing daring escapes from perilous heights— now reduced to a speechless fool at the mere sound of his lover's voice.

"I, uh… I wanted to talk to you," he finally managed to breathe out, his voice laced with uncertainty. He could almost hear the slight scoff on the other end of the line, a sound that made his heart ache with regret.

"About what? I don't think there's much to talk about after the tantrum you threw at me," your voice came through, laced with a hint of bitterness. Were you being immature? Perhaps. But you had every right to be upset, every right to be salty.

Boothill swallowed hard, his voice barely above a whisper as he stumbled over his words, the apology he wanted to offer caught in his throat. "I- uh, um…" He cursed inwardly, his free hand nervously tugging at a few strands of his hair in a panic.

Darn it, why didn't he ask Dan Heng when the Express would reach the planet where you resided?

"I wanted to say that I…I'm so—" He groaned in frustration, slapping his hand against his face as he gritted his teeth in irritation. Why was it so blasted difficult to express himself? "I-I'm sorry, darlin'. Truly, I am."

The silence from your end only intensified Boothill's nerves, sending a wave of panic coursing through him. Was this it? Were you going to leave him, leaving him to wander aimlessly without a home once more? "Please, sweetheart. I'm pourin' my heart out here," he pleaded softly, his voice trembling with genuine sincerity.

He listened intently, straining to hear any sign of your response. From the muffled sounds of sheets rustling, he could only guess that you might be on the verge of tears again, and it tore at his nonexistent heart. "I'm sorry for…for yellin' and such. I was actin' selfish and ignorant, and I know that was wrong of me," he confessed, his cheeks burning with embarrassment and guilt as he cast his gaze downward.

Desperation clawed at him, the longing for your touch, the warmth of your presence beside him each morning, the comfort of your embrace— it all flooded his senses. He yearned for a home to return to, a sanctuary where he could find solace in your love once more.

"I'll make it up to you, I swear," Boothill vowed earnestly, feeling a spark of hope ignite within him.

He heard a quiet sigh escape your lips, and he squirmed with anticipation, eagerly awaiting your response.

"You've got 10 minutes to get your ass back into our home, right this instant," you blurted out, attempting to inject a joking tone into your words, but Boothill could detect the slight tremor in your voice.

His heart soared with relief and joy at your words. "Alright— okay, I'll be there. Just let me ask Dan Heng when we'll be arriving, alright?" he replied eagerly, his demeanor brightening considerably. This was his chance to make things right, to rebuild what he had almost shattered. He wasn't about to let it slip through his fingers.

As Boothill's metal boots echoed through the halls of the Express, his heart lightened at the sound of your voice. "I miss you," you confessed, the sniffle in your tone tugging at his wired heartstrings.

A chuckle escaped him, his hand reaching for the doorknob that led to Dan Heng's room. "I missed you too, sweetcheeks. I'll make it up to you, I swear on my bounty," he promised, determination lacing his words.

He could sense the relief in your giggle as you bid him goodbye and hung up, prompting him to knock on Dan Heng's door. "Yo, bro! When we makin' a stop at my planet?"

"We're not," Dan Heng's muffled voice responded, causing Boothill to freeze in his tracks. "We're stopping at Penacony to go to The Reverie to pick up my colleagues."

"…We're what."

[lorelune]

lobotomy commission

|| jing yuan x gn!reader || T || love sick hopefully lovers || wc: 3.9k  || ao3 ||

The Xianzhou Alliance has... never allowed lobotomies? Why are you so insistent on receiving one?

(The General, the Divine Foresight.)

minors, antis, and ageless blogs dni

a/n: oh mister general jing yuan you have me so damn heart eyes. here's a lil sweet treat!!!!

CW: fluff, friends to lovers, jing yuan being a bit silly, alcohol consumption, FLUFF, a bit of crack being taken seriously

"Lady Fu, I need to be put down." Your cheek hits the low table. You feel pathetic. It's a Thursday and you're teary-eyed after far too little wine to be in such a state. You sniffle.

"No one is 'putting you down'!" Fu Xuan huffs from the other side, patting your arm. "It's rare that you’re this mopey. What’s troubling you?"

"I am not 'mopey'. I need a lobotomy. Which of the commissions would handle this procedure?"

Lady Fu frowns, clicks her tongue, and sighs your name, “A lobotomy, really?

"Yes, exactly. As soon as possible, preferably.” You down the rest of your cup and restlessly flip your phone screen up. 

"This is particularly pathetic. Stop drinking and wallowing and just tell me what's wrong."

"Fu Xuan, you will scold me." You push yourself up on the table and shake your head. "No, actually, you will fire me. You will send me to my office this very instant, force me to pack up my things, and turn in my permissions. I'll be out of a job. Then, I'll be homeless. then—"

"No, nuh-uh, no more dramatics!" Fu Xuan slaps a hand over your mouth. You're glad you’re seated in a private corner of the bar, as this is a rather pathetic display on both of your parts. "Please just tell me, what’s the matter?”

Your dilemma. 

"I like the General."

Fu Xuan frowns, expression pinched, and her hand falls heavily onto the table. "That... isn’t exactly new information? Even if it’s a... questionable call of taste, the general is handsome. Occasionally charming when he isn’t being an oaf on purpose. I don’t think having a bit of a crush on the Divine Foresight is anything unusual. Half of the population of the Luofu holds the same opinion.

“Okay, but,” you unlock your phone, a ceramic, cat-shaped charm swinging from the vase as you wobble. “What if the General were to return my feelings? And he invited me for a walk and a meal tomorrow evening?”

Fu Xuan's jaw drops. "You're joking."

"I'm not,” you whine and slide your phone across the table.

...

Divine Foresight 🦁:

Are you free tomorrow evening? I know a terrace that has a splendid view of the overlook near the Cinnabar Eyeline. I would be delighted to take you to it and share a meal after, 

Divine Foresight 🦁:

If you'll have me :3c

...

“Oh... wow.”  Fu Xuan looks shocked. It’s hard to shock her, but she does tend to avoid divining the destiny of those she is close to (unless entirely necessary.) Her intuition regardless of mathematics and astral geometry is, however, keen. Yet her eyes are wide and she struggles to gather her words. “What a menace.”

“I know.”

“The General is rarely so forward. I’ve never heard of him being so forward.”

“I know.”

“Except, perhaps—”

“With me?” You rub your cheeks. They’re warm from the wine. 

“Only you. Though this is particularly... telling. I’m sure it’s sincere.”

“I would agree.” Your stomach flutters, and you swallow the feeling down. 

Fu Xuan narrows her eyes and says your name, mouth in a thin line, "You haven't replied."

“And that’s why I need the lobotomy.” You swallow. “I’m going to turn him down.”

“WHAT?!”

You need another drink.

Fu Xuan clearly does not. Her cheeks flush rosy pink as she slaps her hands on the low table. “Why would you reject him? Even if he’s a scoundrel— he is genuine.”

“I know, that’s why I can’t accept his... proposition.”

Despite knowing that Jing Yuan serially denies any potential suitors or daring admirers. You know that it has always been like this— from the time long ago when he first gained rank, to his ‘withered age’ as he self-deprecating refers to himself now. He is always kind about his rejections, you’ve witnessed one or two of them, but he never even entertains the idea of romantic partnership. You’ve never heard him mention it or any desires. 

So, for him to so bluntly ask you on a date—

He couldn’t be more clear with his feelings. 

“You’re a fool.”

“Now, you’re getting it.” You pour yourself another glass of plum wine. Your shared bottle is nearly empty. “This is why I need the lobotomy.”

Fu Xuan watches you drink your glass in a single go. Her brows are pinched and her arms are crossed. Her shoulders sag a moment later.

“I do believe I understand your reasoning, and I don’t think it’s lobotomy-worthy.”

“... High praise.” 

“[Name].”

“Alright, alright. I’m sorry.” You laugh behind your palm. The world feels sticky and bouncy, all at once. You crave the respite of your own bed. “I can’t accept his proposition in the form of a text. I mean, Lady Fu, he's the most powerful man on the Luofu. He is renowned in all fields of battle, strategic, and social graces. He’s kind. He probably like, kisses babies on Sundays at the markets."

"He does not."

"You never know!" You groan. "That's all to say that I won't accept an invitation to a date with this little effort put into it."

"... Because it's a text?"

"Because it's a text." You nod.

Fu Xuan pauses, then sighs. 

“I can’t decide if that makes you a fool or not.” Her hair is frizzing up with the humidity. "Perhaps you have a point, the General is old enough to know and have some decorum when going about these things."

"Maybe he's a virgin? But like, for dating." 

"I'd have to check... certain records. Archives. To confirm or deny that."

You wilt, “He probably isn’t. I’m being foolish.” 

“No, you’re not.” Fu Xuan smooths a hand over your cheek with a frown. 

"Lady Fu," you cry and wish you were at home. In bed. Maybe you should block his number. "You're supposed to say, 'You absolutely are, my most beloved junior, I will schedule your lobotomy and—’"

"No more talk of lobotomies, please."

"Fine, fine." you sigh and finish off your final cup as Lady Fu does as well. "Do you think I'm nuts for turning him down?"

"... No, I don't." Fu Xuan looks shy for a moment. A lot more human than her lofty station implies. "I don't doubt that... Jing Yuan has feelings for you. I see how he looks at you. But he ought to romance you a bit. A text is low effort. You should reply regardless though."

"I'm going to, I just needed some courage. And moral support." You give her a soft smile and tap back into your messages. Fu Xuan practically crawls around the table to your side. She leans her head on your shoulders and her eyes droop. You take a heavy inhale, then exhale, attempt to focus your blurry vision and craft.

...

You:

General, though I'm flatered by your offer, I will need to decline. Though I will ackknowledge what I would imagine (and hope)) to be your genun

You:

geuine

You:

gennuie

You:

genuine

You:

feelings, I cannot accept an invitation in the form of a text message. I must be wooed.

You:

lady Fuu says "if you are capable of such things"

You:

pls don't fire her she's a good boss and so nice

You:

[picture from XX/XX/XXXX @ 2:14 AM]

...

The next morning is hell. Hell. You wished you had undergone your requested lobotomy. It certainly feels like someone has stuck metal rods into your brain, with the migraine pounding the back of your eyes. Maybe a hangover this bad is somewhat equivalent to a lobotomy. Your memory of your night prior is... cloudy, to say the least. Your tongue feels heavy in your mouth as you manage to down a glass of water and a handful of peachy-colored pills. You speed walk to the Divination Commission, shooting Fu Xuan an apologetic “sorry, running late, forgive me 🙏" text. 

You mentally pat your drunk self on the back. After you sent your... rejection (ouch) to the General, you muted his messages and deleted the thread. No evidence, no way to feel awkward about it sober. And no way to dwell on it either. Besides, you hardly remember what you said to him after your last glass of wine. It’s hazy in your memory.

It was... perhaps a foolish way to go about things. You certainly could have approached the General and talked about it, but he sometimes spoke in circles about matters of the heart. Maybe... maybe you felt too fragile to dance that dance, if it came to that. Maybe, you were a bit overwhelmed by his invitation. You know all too well that he does not let himself be pursued. He does not pursue others. 

You feel blind-sided by the whole thing.

But that doesn’t matter— because you cleanly rejected him and your only repercussion is a hangover that you’re sure Fu Xuan is twinning. 

And besides, it’s better that you rejected him. He’s of such a high— highest station. He wouldn’t have time for you, surely. You... have gotten used to your entirely and completely platonic, twice-a-month lunch dates and the occasional star chess lesson (where he never lets you win but you swear you'll give him a run for his money.) But it's fine. You can let go of those things, along with your feelings for the General.

It's better this way.

You think these thoughts somewhat confidently until you arrive at the Divination Commission and find a crowd swarming the central platform under the Matrix of Prescience Ultima. Frowning, you try to weave through the edge of it to your office, where you conveniently have a few nutrition shakes stashed away that you most certainly need. You’re already late and this hangover needs to go. You have a full docket for the day that you need to make fuller so you don’t think about—

You nearly stumble when you hear a rich, familiar, roll of laughter. You freeze, slowly turning to the sound. A crown of fluffy hair peaks above the small crowd, a red ribbon waving in the breeze.

Absolutely fucking not.

You duck, just in case, and try to creep below the crowd. You probably look ridiculous, but you absolutely cannot see Jing Yuan. You can’t. Your poorly-thought out, hungover plan of not caring about the General does somewhat heavily rely on not seeing the man. You trip over over your own feet and barely catch yourself so as to not tumble to the ground.

Jing Yuan calls your name and 

You freeze before jolting to your full height a moment later. The gaggle of your coworkers part enough so that you’re able to see him— lit so well and handsomely in the morning sun, smiling so easily with... perhaps a hint of mischief in the curve of his lips. 

He waves with his free hand, while a massive bouquet is pillowed in the crook of his arm.

The flowers are beautiful— off-ship exotics, clearly. The colors are all bright oranges and vibrant blues. Thinner stems are topped with bundles of white, delicate flowers that break the barrage of colors. They look fresh, like they’d been cut this morning. Fu Xuan stands next to him, clearly hungover herself and close to popping a blood vessel. It’s incredibly rare that the General do anything in the mornings, especially causing a commotion in the Divination Commission. 

Jing Yuan, who is more than likely aware of this, looks entirely unbothered. Actually, he glows as he calls your name, gentle and rich, and the sound of it hits you in the chest, “There you are.”

"Here I am." You're not. You need that lobotomy. You nod to him curtly, "General. Is there something I can help you with today?"

Fu Xuan looks like she’s going to expire right there on the platform. 

Jing Yuan cocks his head knowingly, “There is, yes. I have a rather personal matter to discuss in private with you. Are you available?”

You have things on your schedule. You can make yourself appear busy, if it means not dealing with the General you can’t really hide from and the beautiful bouquet in his arms. “Well—”

“They’re free.” Fu Xuan all but pushes you toward him. You regret covering her tab the night before. “Especially free, since I’ll be rescheduling our weekly meeting to tomorrow.”

“Is that really necessary—?” You laugh and wring your hands. You feel caught in the worst way. “General, will this personal discussion take much time? I am quite busy today—”

Jing Yuan, who has been watching your exchange with Fu Xuan wordlessly, looks a bit... crestfallen. It’s hard to tell on a man who holds himself like the General, but it’s there. A crease between his brows that’s slight, but visible and abnormal. Maybe he’s holding the bouquet a little tighter than he probably thought. There’s a sheen of sweat on his temple that, if asked, he would probably blame on the heat index for the day.

Your words die in your throat as you take him in and force yourself to meet his gaze. Honeyed and sad, a bit like a kicked dog.

“... I suppose, I could arrange a proper appointment with you. Perhaps it was uncouth of me to expect such accommodations to be made for me last minute. I apologize.” You can hear his tone change. It may be imperceptible to someone else, but you notice the shift in him. Gone is the playful lilt and air of mischief, on his a veneer of niceties that you... had forgotten he loses around you. 

Something in your chest aches.

You open your mouth to speak, but nothing comes out. Floundering. Jing Yuan adjusts his hold on the bouquet—

“Enough of this.” Lady Fu shakes her head. She shoos a hand toward the lingering onlookers. “Back to work, now. Don’t eavesdrop either. I’ll know if you do.”

(Debatable, but it’s Fu Xuan’s favorite threat.)

Once the crowd has dispersed, she turns toward you too. You needed that lobotomy, like, yesterday. 

“I will make the necessary changes to your schedule so you can speak privately for as long as you need." She points at you, then Jing Yuan. “Sort this.”

The General raises an eyebrow at her. She’s bold to speak in such a way to someone above her own station, but Lady Fu doesn't dare back down. She glares at him, then you, partially covering her mouth to block Jing Yuan’s view before mouthing, “FIX THIS!!!!” 

...

On the way to your office, you walk side by side, in silence. You’re trying to think of the right words to say.

“... Are you sure you have time for this, General?” You ask him, softly. “I don’t mean to ask as a slight— just— I don’t want to inconvenience you is all.”

“Of course.” He replies easily. You turn down the long, quiet corridor that leads to your office. It’s tucked away in a corner of the divination Commission, facing outward toward the Arbor’s stump with tall windows providing a sunlit view. You’re glad you don’t have to look at him as you unlock the door with a thick-looking key. “This is a rather pertinent, time-sensitive matter we’re discussing. My own schedule is not consequential in this case. Haste, moreso.”

You laugh under your breath.

“Great Lan, Qingzu is going to kill me.” You sigh before pushing the door open with a shake of your head. Perhaps a smile curls on your lips. Who’s to say. “Did you at least not leave a pile of paperwork for her to delegate in your stead?”

“And what, diminish the time I have for my afternoon nap with busy work?” Jing Yuan laughs. The sound fills you from the bottom up and you want to choke on it. You tear your gaze away from him. “Such a thing would be unhealthy, you know. I’m an old man.”

“An old man who needs an ample amount of beauty sleep.” You tease him, it’s easy to. You speak before you even have a chance to think about the warm nature of your words. The meaning behind the bouquet in his arms that he still hasn’t given to you. 

Why Jing Yuan is in your office at all. 

“... If this is about my texts my last night—”

“It is, partially.” Jing Yuan hums. “I’m afraid I’ve slighted you, and it’s of the utmost importance I correct my transgression.”

 “That’s— That’s not necessary, General.” Your cheeks burn. 

“It is. Entirely, in fact. Stating my intentions with you over text messages was... a poor choice on my part. I must apologize appropriately, don’t you think? 

“I mean— that’s—” Your words flounder in your mouth. “Kind of you.” 

It is kind of him. He certainly doesn’t need to be here, in your cramped office, with a bouquet that costs close to what you make in a day of work. He doesn’t need to be showing a sincere, lovesick smile as he speaks. He’s showing you a card he’s kept close to his chest. One you, perhaps, guessed he had, but hadn’t intended to ever see.

He presents you with the bouquet, “You said you must be wooed, and I am here to begin that process explicitly.”

"... I said what?" You’re going to burst into flames. 

“I thought you may not recall your exact words. Did you and Lady Fu have a fun night together?” Jing Yuan chuckles, and you flush so hot you feel almost faint. “You said that I must, and I quote, ‘woo you’.” 

He smiles at you, the glint in his eye a bit more mischievous. More knowing. He’s toying with you. 

“I— no— I’m so sorry, General.” You cover your face with your hands and back into your desk. “Forget I said that. Please forget I said anything.”

“Please, use my name.” He corrects, gently. “I’d prefer not to forget. You have a point, I should have stated my intentions clearly and to you in person.”

You peek at him between your fingers. He still holds the bouquet out to you, like he’s trying to lure a cagey cat in for a pet rather than make a confession. You feel out of sorts. Off kilter. That said— it is nice to hear him in person. Your heart has been oscillating between fluttering and pounding. 

Jing Yuan tilts his head sweetly at you. You take the bouquet from him and examine it closer. There’s yellow and lilac pollen dusted on the filaments, fresh and fragrant. 

“Jing Yuan, then.” You reply to him, softly. It’s hardly the first time you’ve called him by his name, rather than a title, but he preens when you speak regardless. “... So, you intend to woo me then?”

“Entirely.” Jing Yuan hums to himself, looking quite proud. “I do fully recant my offer I sent previously. Though I would be happy to lounge with you in the terraces and see some lovely views, I’ve secured a reservation for this evening at a lovely restaurant in the Exalting Sanctum, if you would accompany me.” 

Your stomach flips pleasantly.  You can’t help the little smile that’s twitching over your lips. You take care to not crush the bouquet in your arms, despite the urge to squeeze it to your chest, just to tamp down the thumping of your heart. Stroking your thumb over the silken petal of lush, round-petaled bloom, you let yourself smile. 

You can practically hear Jing Yuan holding his breath. His eyes look hopeful and young. 

“I accept,” you reply. “Consider me wooed.”

“It was that easy?” Jing Yuan’s voice takes that air of smugness that you know is a farce but you still can’t help but to approach him and bat your hands at his chest.

“I already like you, you know,” You laugh. “I was more offended that you wouldn’t face me and tell me your intentions. I hardly know the General to be a coward. I was a bit slighted.”

Jing Yuan catches your wrists in one of his hands and gently holds them against your sternum. His fingers lay over the thump of your heart; you wonder if he can feel it. You feel pleasantly woozy when you meet his eyes and all their intensity. Intention. 

“I apologize.” He speaks smoothly, easily. Perhaps ducking his head down to be closer to your own. “It’s quite difficult to proposition someone so beautiful and kind.”

“Ah, so the General was hiding behind a screen, then?” You laugh over the heat rising in your cheeks. “I’ve never known you to be a coward.”

Jing Yuan hums, and you pop up on the corner of your desk. He’s close enough to feel the heat of him, and see the threading of his uniform and the glitter woven into the rich fabrics.

“Hm, I wouldn’t say it has anything to do with cowardice.” Jing Yuan shakes his head. His breath is warm over your cheeks. “I planned to tell you my intentions of courting you at the Terraces, once you accepted. I, perhaps, was too presumptuous in expecting you to assume beyond my initial ask. I should have been more clear.”

You stifle a laugh and flex your hands, still held in his firm, but kind grip. 

“Jing Yuan, if you continue to speak to me so directly, I’ll demand you take me out now and not this evening.”

“Is that so?”

“Entirely.” You struggle to maintain eye contact and not let your gaze drift down to his lips. “I’m not used to you speaking so clearly, only your riddles.”

“What riddles?” He tilts his head, curly, a sweet smile on his face that is far too mischievous for who he is expected to be.

“Oh, you know—”

“Do I?” Jing Yuan asks. He steps between your thighs, the width of him forcing your legs wider. As if your flush could be any more intense. “You must tell me more over lunch. I’ll send a message to Lady Fu and clear your schedule?”

“... She did say to take as long as we need to sort this,” You soften, a bit intimated, if only for a moment. “Is this sorted?”

Jing Yuan hums, “You did say you were wooed. I’d consider that fairly sorted.”

“And you’ll have me?” You ask him, daring to slide your arms over his shoulders. The contact bubbles up months of tension over Star Chess boards (during games that, perhaps, were not entirely platonic). 

“I’d be honored.” Jing Yuan’s voice sounds sweet, more quiet than you’ve heard before, like it’s just for you to hear. 

There’s an edge to it all still— something raw and new that will need to be tempered. That is the nature of immortality and the relationships and partnerships that come with it. Complexes develop, heal, and grow differently within the self. You’ve already gamed out a few of Jing Yuan’s (a cursed Master who he will only reference in melancholy, unrequited love he was too young for, so many tragedies that he somehow manages to give himself for not preventing). He is perceptive. You’re sure he has put together some of yours as well. 

For now, there’s a promise of good things. There’s the feel of him pressing his lips to yours, gentle but unyielding, strung with a mutual yearning that, in retrospect, would’ve been a shame to crush and hide away. There’s the warmth of him so close, and closer still when you drag him closer by the nape of his neck.

You can feel his grin against your lips, and you mirror it easily.

No riddles, only a fragrant bouquet and intention. 

[genderfluid-insomniac]

Macaque and Wukong x reader (separately) ending up in situations where they’re completely tangled in rope

A/N: I wrote this on the plane as it took off and had previously been hopping around from airport to airport for more than 24 hours. I only got around 3ish hours of sleep by sleeping in the airport chairs and on the plane with occasional free falls thanks to the weather when flying.

so sorry if this is shit or has tons of grammar issues later since I feel like a husk and running on autopilot

This is somewhat suggestive

Macaque

You’d just gotten a call from Macaque as you were on a break with little words being spoken from him and only heard “Fuck! Come help me with the ropes- Shit!”. That’s all that you heard before it got cut off and it did slightly worry you since your lover rarely seemed that distressed unless he was genuinely in need of help. Your bag was already packed thanks to keeping it closed so you could have an easy check out at the end of your shift. The other coworker on your shift gave you a wink and thumbs up when you told them about your dilemma, promising they could cover for you for an hour or two.

Before both of you had left for your jobs, Macaque said he was going to be in the theatre tweaking the mechanics of the lights and that information paired with what he said gave you a good idea of what happened. Your theory was confirmed when you walked into the lobby and called out his name, hearing the shadow demon yell back that he was in the theatre’s backstage area. “Macaque? What happened? I got your vague cry for help!” You yelled and tried to hold back laughter when you saw him completely tangled in ropes, looking bored out of his mind and tired. Mostly likely from thrashing to get out of it if you had to guess.

His thighs were tangled in rope that already had knots in it and one of his legs was folded back against itself while the other was mainly tied at his knee and held up. You walked closer to him and brushed your fingers over the ropes, mentally trying to work out where to start and wondering if grabbing a table to let him lay on it would be better so the ropes aren’t strained. There were several ways he could get out even without using his powers so why didn’t he just cut the ropes or something?

“Why didn’t you just cut the ropes? That would’ve saved the time of calling me and giving you more time to work.” You chastised him and only received an unimpressed glare from your lover. He gestured up to the ceiling with his head and of course most of those ropes controlled different parts of the theatre, starting to understand why that wasn’t an option.

“I would’ve but then I’d have to risk some of the stage lights landing on my head or damaging the stage. That’s assuming no one else is in here.” He said with a dry tone and shot you a look saying “Get me out of here now and I won’t punish you.” However, it seemed like he didn’t have a place to call the shots, and for once you could be one in control. You ran your fingers up the ropes leading to his groin and pulled away with a small hiss coming from your boyfriend. “Who says I can’t have a little fun with you now?” You whispered.

Sun Wukong

So you didn’t exactly get a call from Wukong but more like MK called (making the comment that whatever he needed help with was weird since his astral projection looked strange) you saying that Monkey King needed your help with something and wouldn’t disclose what apparently to his successor. This call didn’t last long since you guessed he called you while he was driving since all you heard was a car horn and a curse coming from him. If you had to guess your boyfriend had probably gotten himself into some trouble seeing as he told you to help him and he didn’t tell MK what happened. Probably to try and maintain his impressive image as his mentor; he’d have to do something absolutely terrible like kick an innocent puppy or something.

After thanking Sandy for a lift since getting to that damn mountain was so hard and at some points it was tiring but you were “forbidden” from trying to leave for his mountain in case you got hurt which is when the great sage would come to you. Speaking of, some of the monkeys recognized you from the many times you came here to visit Wukong and followed you up to the entrance of his treasure room or rather his “hoarding room”. As you walked in there wasn’t anything out of the norm but there really wasn’t anything you could see given home fucking large this room was and-

Nevermind. The glowing shiny rope hanging from the ceiling with various things caught in it was certainly what you were looking for and yes that was your mystic monkey strewn about. “Sun, what did you do or touch this time?” You said with a sigh while some of his siblings climbed the nearest pillar to poke the rope curiously. He sputtered and looked away from you. “What?! No! I didn’t do anything. I just um wanted to see you since it’s been so long since I last saw you.” He nervously said and then stopped his next sentence from coming out since you both had seen each other not even 24 hours ago. At this, you turned around with a carefree smile and waved at him.

“If that’s all then I’ll see you tonight for movie night at my place. Bye-” You said in a sing-song tone before turning around knowing you’d probably get about 5 feet from the entrance before he yelled at you to come back. You laughed as you walked back over trying to gauge how high he was up and not hiding the amused grin on your face seeing how done with your mocking he was. He’d do the same too if not worse so it was karma. “So remind me why you can’t get out?” You asked and looked around hoping to find something climbable since there was no way he owned a ladder. “Well, I could but other magical items or artifacts are tied up here with me and I don’t know what they’ll do if they fall with me. I’ve also tried getting out for an hour now. and nothing’s worked.”

He mumbled the last part and you carefully climbed up a nearby rock hill as he continued to talk. Whenever you tried to figure out which place to start from you got momentarily distracted by the sight of your lover tied up in a precarious position, the main ropes tied around his torso all scattered about and the other wrapping tightly around his ankle. So his left leg was lifted high while the other was loosely hanging and rope tied some part of his hands to his lower right ankle near his back. It was hard to keep your eyes off of Sun even if you were both together especially now since he was somewhat helpless.

Apparently, you had been staring too long because he’d caught where your eyes were and smiled cheekily. “Well, aren’t you going to act on those thoughts of yours because this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, sunshine?” He teased.

[spiriteddreams]

satisfied to run

Pairing: Dan Heng x Reader Warnings: angst, no comfort, hurtful words -> realizing you love someone when they leave trope Word Count: ~1.5k A/N: shoutout to @chickynuggy115 for beta reading and getting me to post lol

He will never be satisfied, and you think that this is the hardest part about loving someone who will always yearn for more. It is like chasing after the stars, only for them to blink out of existence before you can cup it in your hands and bring it close to your heart. He flees from your touch like it is a game, but a game he is completely unaware of, which makes it all the harder to come to terms with.

Dan Heng runs from a past that clings to him in the form of your physical presence and the memories that linger in his mind. There are things he has done that he is un-proud of, a history that will haunt and hunt him down for as long as he lives. Then there’s you. He stays close but keeps his distance, never once indulging anyone about his past and should you make an off handed joke, you’ll risk another day of cold shoulders and brushed aside concerns. 

He finds himself caught in a dilemma of wanting to push you away but still keeping you within an arm’s reach. All he has ever wanted was to run from “home.” He doesn't think he’ll ever forget the sight of eyes filled with hatred that bore into his back as he turned away and boarded ship after ship. You were there. You always have been. You clung to his side, pretending to not care about the whispers that floated behind his back, gracing him with smiles and hugs that he never returned. 

“Are you okay? Was it another nightmare? Do you want to talk about it?” You find him awake and still slightly disheveled, standing in the lobby of the Astral Express as he stares out blankly at the stars. You’re not a stranger to his nightmares, having slept in the same room and nearby as you’ve journeyed along with him. You’ve seen the way sweat builds on his forehead as he twists beneath bed sheets as he mumbles numbers and someone paying the price.

Dan Heng sighs and casts you a dry look over his shoulder. “You don’t need to check up on me, I’m fine,” his words are blunt but they still dig into your skin and you can’t tell what hurts more: his blatant disregard of your words once more, or the way your nails sink into your skin.

“You always say you’re fine. You’re not fooling anyone,” You shake your head. You’re taking a risk by speaking up again but after years of travelling with him, it gets harder and harder to ignore the clear pain and struggle that plagues your dearest companion. “Can you talk to me, for once, please? What do you mean, ‘one of them?” Dan Heng stiffens but you wait.

It feels like deja vu, with the way he scoffs and turns himself to fully face you. You know the words that will come next and yet no matter how much you brace yourself for them, they still plunge beneath the skin and sink deeper and deeper. You wonder how much more you can take.

“It’s none of your business! You’re always worrying,” he snaps. “Don’t you have anything better to do? I'm fine. You ask me this every time and when have I answered differently? Just… just leave. I don't need you right now.” The pent up frustration and shaking fear has bubbled up in his throat and spilled out in cruel words, throwing all gratitude back in your face. Your teeth sink into your tongue as you take the full force of his words. This time, his words are laced with more anger and frustration, clearly the same ones that have built up over time. 

In a second, his expression changes, shifting from anger in response to your question, to surprise at the sudden snapping of words, then remorse as he realizes how they sounded. But he can’t say anything. Dan Heng has never been one for words and he curses himself when he can’t bring the right ones to his lips. He watches your eyes shift from that same caring compassion he had taken for granted to blank hurt. Your lip trembles and yet you hold your composure, as if you’d practiced this over and over before because of him. He feels a lump in his throat grow, choking him into silence as you purse your lips and nod, mumbling something under your breath. He doesn’t even reach out or open his mouth when you turn away. He just stands still and does nothing. He’s not sure if that hurts him or you more.

He begins to notice too late that you’ve begun to flee from his presence. No longer are you a comfort at his side to fill his silence with commentary, or to poke him in the shoulder when he says something rather blunt. Instead, he’s met with silence and a dull ache that makes him wonder where you’ve run off to. Finding you throughout the week turns out to be a much more difficult task than he could ever have anticipated. One day you’re next to him, a constant presence at his side to fill his silence with commentary and offer a subtle sort of warmth that he’s gotten used to over time. He sees you in glimpses: rushing down the hall to your room, hugging Himeko tightly, popping into the archive at unusual times before leaving in a hurry. The only time where you really spend time with him is during meals. But even then, you seem far too happy to be caught up in conversation with the others. When you do talk to him, it’s almost clipped. There’s still warmth in your eyes, but it's laced with a hesitance that Dan Heng realizes that he’s starting to dislike more and more. It reminds him of the sight of your expression the night he snapped at you. 

“Are you okay?” He asks those three words as if they hold no weight. You sit on the couch, wrapped up in a blanket with a cup of something warm held between your hands. He won’t admit that he had been searching for you throughout the day and yet you’d seemed to evade him at every turn. You look more tired than usual, head resting on the cushions as you stare up at the sky. There is longing in your eyes and Dan Heng wonders if he’s the cause of it.

You don’t look at him even as he steps closer. He’s hesitant to come closer, afraid that if he does reach out, you’ll try to run. He’s been running all his life, desperately trying to bury the past and distance himself as much as possible and yet you’re the one constant that continues to linger from “home.” He thinks that he should be thankful that you’re putting yourself at a distance, because that would mean it will be easier for him to let go and finally try to forget all that he had done. But the more and more you pull away, the harder he wants to tug you back.

“You don’t need to check up on me, I’m fine,” your words are so soft and tired that he almost misses them. But they strike deep, a clear reminder of his own careless words. And here you are, throwing them back at him with no fight in your tone, just exhaustion. He wants you to look at him so he can read your expression the same way he’s learned to read your every emotion over the years. He opens his mouth to respond, to push back against your stubbornness but you are faster to speak up.

“Look, I just wanted to admire the view before I go to the Xianzhou Luofu,” you glance over at him with a gentle smile. Your eyes are slightly puffy but you act like nothing’s wrong. He stares at you, unsure of what to say as he’s reminded that you’re leaving the next day. You’re not banned from the Xianzhou, only he is, and for the first time, you’re going somewhere he can’t follow.

Dan Heng takes a deep breath, “I was wondering if we could talk?” You barely react to his words and sigh.

“How about when I return?” you turn away from him. “I don’t really feel like talking to you right now.” The words sting more than Dan Heng will ever let you know. He has nothing to say, can’t say anything, because if he did, it might very well make the situation worse. 

“Return safely to me then, please?” You seem surprised at his words and look at him fully for the first time. Your brows are raised, mouth parted slightly as you’re taken off guard. And then you smile and that dull throb in his chest returns. You haven’t smiled like that towards him in awhile and you’re about to leave.“Of course,” you chuckle and turn back towards the sky. You turn away from him on the couch just as you turn away from him the next day, leaving him with empty promises and words caught on his tongue. All he’s known is running from his life, never satisfied with his life on the run and yet when someone else, when you, run, Dan Heng doesn’t know what to do.

Bonus: And when Dan Heng hears of Blade’s presence on the Luofu and he can think of is you. There is a certain franticness and waver in his voice when he says your name aloud. For the first time, you are just out of his grasp and the fears buried in the depths of his mind begin to surface as he throws out all rationality out the door to get you back.

reblogs and comments are greatly appreciated! <3 a/n: ya'll see those leaks of 5 star dan heng cause like.... haha.... fics with lore....

[celestoria]

In Your Arms Tonight

Summary: Dan Heng keeps on getting nightmares so you decided that he should sleep in your room for a couple days. After another episode, he thought it was best to help him get his mind off it~

Pairing: Dan Heng x fem!reader

Tags: bottom!Dan Heng, nightmares, reader is a service top, clothed, overstimulation, handjob, penetration, dumbification, creampie, ig this is like comforting him so like a bit of fluff here and there

Word Count: 1.4k

A/n: Dedicated to a close friend, @scarlettjskipper. This took a while to make but i hope you enjoy!

Do not interact if you are 16 or below (17+)

A terrible nightmare is no stranger to the man who resides by the archives of the Astral Express. Every so often you’d find him strolling down the hallway of the train during late hours, trying to take his mind off the reoccurring horrors that haunt him.

Out of worry, you decided to let him sleep in your room for a couple of nights until he feels better.

Dan Heng felt more assured with you by his side, curled up under the same sheets and his head resting on your chest where he could listen to your peaceful heartbeat as he drifted to sleep. If only he could take you to his dreams too, then maybe he wouldn’t pray for more dreamless nights.

But alas, it seems the aeons had not heard his pleas when he thought he was safe in your grasp.

You awoke to his head lightly shifting on your breast paired with mumbled words you can’t seem to decipher. “Dan Heng, wake up,” you said as you tried to shake him awake. “Dan Heng!”

The man’s eyes shot wide open and gasped for air by the time he rose. Cold sweat covered him and the darkness felt disorienting. If it wasn’t for your voice trying to comfort him the moment he woke up, it would take longer for him to calm down.

Dan Heng groaned and rubbed his temples. For him, this is starting to feel like an endless hunt where he was the prey and the predator was hiding somewhere he cannot see. The last thing he wanted to do now was go back to sleep.

Anxiety and concern rushed through you as he faced this dilemma. You tried to imagine how it felt that even during sleep, you were still not at peace. All you can think of is that it must be difficult to go through something as tough as that.

“Is there anything I can do for you? Probably fetch you some water or….” you said, trying to provide him a bit of solace.

He shook his head. “Don’t worry about me. I’ll be fine. However, I do need something to get my mind off it right now,” he replied. “How about we lay down for a while,” he requested.

You agreed and laid back down on your bed, with your limbs wrapped around the man to cuddle him. Your lips pressed on his forehead as you combed through his hair and his face buried in between the low cut of your nightwear. Your warmth was a haven for him but it seems that the memories of the dream still lingered in his mind.

He wanted something more.

Your eyes locked for a second when he called out your name before his lips met yours. His fingers snaked up from the back of your head to push you closer to him. Taken aback by his abrupt actions, you slowly pulled away.

He looked down, unable to face you with such an absurd request. “I am aware I might be asking too much of you tonight, but-“

“It’s alright. I understand,” you cut him off short to spare him from his bashfulness. “But are you sure you don’t mind?”

He nodded. “I promise it will make me feel better.” Dan Heng found himself to be a fortunate person to have you by his side. Someone so understanding and caring whenever these sorts of things happen to him. Deep down he is thanking his lucky stars for helping both of you cross paths that fateful day.

Without another word, you mindlessly perched yourself on Dan Heng’s lap as your mouth sucked on the side of his neck, causing a silent gasp to leave him. One hand held onto his bicep, while the other made its way under his pants and teased his tip slowly starting to coat itself with precum. Your thumb swirled on its smooth surface before you began pumping him, making it harder than it was earlier.

Dan Heng shuddered. The cloth of your nightgown tightened around your waist as he clasped its fabric and you sensed a pang of pain when his teeth bit down on your shoulders to muffle out any loud noise coming from him. Indulgent mewls and sinful moans crawled to your ears the more you teased him.

“Don’t stop,” Dan Heng begged. His hips struggled to stay in place and his teeth dug deeper into your skin. Heat flushed his body as his abdomen felt like it was getting coiled with a spring.

Soon after, strings of white liquid squirted out of his dick and coated the gaps of your fingers. You brought your hand to your mouth and slowly licked the cum off. “Do you feel any better now,” you asked with sympathy oozing out of your lips.

“I still want more,” he pleaded with a huff, clearly trying to recover after being pushed off the edge like that. “Please.”

Unable to dismiss his request, you hiked up the skirt of your negligee and inserted a small portion of his cock deep in you while the lining of your panty pushed itself aside to make way. As you sank on him, cool hands made their way under his shirt and grazed his skin, leading him to shiver.

Your walls wrapped around him and your slick pooling underneath you the more your pussy frantically bounced on his cock, causing the bed frame to loudly creaked.

His hot breath tickled your collarbone as his face pressed itself on the crook of your neck, hiding the pink flush growing brighter on his cheeks. Dan Heng's mind was already in a haze, unable to think other than how your name feels when it escapes his mouth. It’s as if your touch and intimacy brought him more tranquillity compared to the times he’d spend his nights alone on his bed where he knew he'd wake up with shock and fear making his heart race.

Your movements started to get a little sloppy by the time you were pumping him balls deep in you.“Dan Heng,” you moaned. Even if you were the one in control tonight, you can’t help but debaucherously cry out his name, especially when his cock never misses your G-spot with the angle it’s curved.

However, you tried to get a hold of yourself in case anyone would walk by your room and realize what the both of you are up to right now. A part of you worried about that scenario turning into reality but the other side didn’t care when you were so close to experiencing such an earth-shattering high.

Your back arched and Dan Heng’s body quaked as if both of you were seeing stars. White painted the walls of your cunt while his dick was still inside you twitching.

You knew he’s been holding it in with how his body squirmed under you and his whimpers became uncontrollably louder. His tired body trembled and leaned on you for support. For a moment he was refusing to let you go out of his grasp. Sadly, you gently slid off his arms that clung to you and reached out for the box of tissues in the drawer of your side table.

You wiped off his dick, still sensitive after an intense night, and Dan Heng jerked. “Are you all right,” you asked off the bat while you crawled back to your side of the bed and saw him leaning on the bed frame.

He nodded slowly, his body leaning on the headboard and his tired eyes fluttering as his lids began to feel heavy. It seems he won’t be thinking about the dream until it’s time for everyone to walk up again. You helped Dan Heng rest his head on the pillow and pulled the blanket to keep him warm. For the first time in days, he was sleeping soundly again without staring at the ceiling for hours on end.

After sweeping his bangs off his forehead to get a better look at him, your lips pecked the side of his mouth and smiled at him as you whispered.

“Sweet dreams, my love.”

[wellthebardsdead]

Orpheus: one of you must become ghaik if your- ally here refuses to aid you.

The emperor: if you side with him then our alliance is at an end.

Tav: that’s fine- *casts sending* Hi can you reach us in the astral?

The emperor: who are you talking t-

Omeluum: *suddenly appears holding Blurgs hand* Greetings. We are here to assist.

Blurg: *refusing to leave his side after the iron throne incident* hello! Please don’t kill my husband kind Githyanki- I just got him back.

Tav: hi guys this is prince Orpheus! Orpheus this is Blurg and Omeluum, he’s a friendly mind flayer!

Orpheus: a friendly ghaik? Interesting, it seems our dilemma has been solved then.

The emperor: …Fuck.

[doctorofmagic]

BLOOD HUNT PREDICTIONS (and spoilers!)

Okay, I see everyone is struggling to keep it cool because of what just happened today in Blood Hunt #1. But honestly I'm very excited to put the pieces together (also very HYPED!!!). So here are my thoughts (and my friend Red's, thank you, my darling) on what we gathered so far through clues, covers and solicitations.

Obviously, spoilers.

Well, first thing I'd like to establish is that people will probably feel lost if they haven't read the last Blade volume. Thankfully, yours truly did! Which means I can provide some context:

Just recently, Blade released an ancient evil called the Adana by accident. To make it up for this mistake (which would lead to the end of the world, basically), he had to embrace his full vampiric powers by drinking Dracula's blood (they're in a kinda complicated relationship right now, not friends nor enemies but necessary allies). That also meant that he was corrupted by its evil.

Plus, as I said it many times, Blade has a deep respect for Stephen because of the Montesi Formula, which resulted in the extinction of all vampires. Yes, Stephen did it once, and I'll get back to it because I think it's REALLY important.

Since we established that Blade might be corrupted, let's move on to the next topic.

Is Stephen dead?

My best guess is "not really".

In Blood Hunt, we see that T'Challa sacrificed himself to protect Cap America Sam and the rest of the Avengers who survived the first strike. But is T'Challa gone? Luckily, I follow Farid Karami on twitter and he posted a few inks he did for Black Panther: Blood Hunt. And guess what? That's right, we'll about to have vampire!T'Challa!

Besides, we all know that the next Doctor Strange issue will feature Wong and vampire!Stephen. What we didn't know was how Stephen would fit in the plot, but thanks to the variant cover I posted last week, we do now: he'll be guiding his allies via his astral form.

Now, how can the Sorcerer Supreme deal with the vampiric threat? It was shown that Stephen and Clea are looking for the Montesi Formula again.

For those who don't know, the Montesi Formula is a spell from the Darkhold that can wipe every single vampire off the face of the Earth. Stephen already used this spell once when he fought Dracula (and Blade was there, hence the respect he holds for Stephen). Unfortunately for them, Wanda has just recently absorbed the Darkhold within her body as a way to gain autonomy from Chthon (as seen in Darkhold: Alpha and Omega). Besides, Wanda was captured by the Bloodcoven, which means she can't do much right now. In addition, as hinted by Blade himself, she won't use the Montesi Formula, mostly because the character can't be involved in another kind of genocide (thanks, Bendis). And that leads us to the next topic.

Who could do it? The very one character who would overcome morals on behalf of his people, the same one who already appeared in the first issue: Doctor Doom. And if we think about it, he has two advantages already: 1) he's second in line to be the Sorcerer Supreme, and 2) as already established, he'd do anything to protect his planet and, most importantly, Latverians.

It's also important to reiterate that an astral form is not as powerful as the body+soul. With Stephen's strength limited, it's not that crazy to imagine that he could pass the mantle to Victor for a limited period while they find the spell. "Why not Clea?" I don't know. It's already established that managing the power of two sorcerers supreme is extremely hard and draining. Could be another reason as well. I'm just trying to find a coherent train of thought through this variant cover here:

Still, we're left with a very important dilemma. We have nice vampire allies in current comics: Brielle (Blade's daughter) and Soldier and Reese from the Midnight Mission (Moon Knight), the three of them being characters to be featured in the tie-ins. Well, not to mention Stephen and T'Challa, and maybe some more to be turned in the next issues. This is why I don't think the Montesi Formula will happen. Jed won't kill THE Black Panther, let's be real. So what's next?

We're expecting a plot twist at some point, and Blade will have an important role here. He's set to have another solo title this year, probably following the consequences of his actions. But there's a high chance someone else is involved. Let's check this panel once more:

Atlantean rituals.... Where did we hear about it before? That's right, Sorcerer Supreme #11!

During the old age, Varnae become ruler of the vampires and was brought back by Marie Laveau in modern age, fighting Doctors Strange and Voodoo. His last appearance traces back to Blade when he and his friends confronted him. Frank Drake sacrificed himself in an explosion to kill Varnae, and that's the last time we hear about him.

But see how the pieces come together? Blade, Stephen and Varnae. It makes sense that things would center around these three. And this is why I'm very excited. It's not a surprise that I love Blade and Stephen's relationship, and all these elements would make a wonderful drama, one that I'm really looking forward to!

Overall, I'm not worried about status quo or anything like that. I know things will work out in time, and seeing so many of my favorite characters involved in an event written by McKay only makes it better!

And that's it! Feel free to add your thoughts on this post! And see you all next week with Doctor Strange #15! 👀

[infiniteeight8]

If you're still interested in the series... Soul and Tony? IronStrange

I am absolutely still interested in this series, Anon! I have so many notes. I’d have written more of it already, except when I have other prompts I feel compelled to keep up with those, instead. So you have resolved this dilemma for me. 😀

After last the last ficlet in this series, Tony was due for a bit of a freak out...

The other parts of Tony & Soul can be found here. 

-

The more Tony thinks about Soul’s powers, the more unsettled he gets. 

If a ghost was effectively a soul—and both Stephen and Soul had said it was—then it followed that the nature of the soul was independent of the human body. Which made sense given the transformations he knew Stephen was capable of: no matter what he did to his body, his soul remained the same. 

Further, given that astral projection was a thing—and Stephen had demonstrated it several times—the body didn’t have to be dead in order for the soul to go walkabout. 

So if a soul could be removed from a living body, and a disembodied soul could be encouraged to pass on into the afterlife, what was stopping Tony from killing people just by pulling their souls out and sending them on?

Soul? Tony demanded.

Nothing, the Soul Stone admitted. Such a thing is entirely within your power. Tony shifted uneasily, and Soul stirred. How is killing them this way any different than shooting them with a gun? 

It just is. Tony hadn’t even believed in souls until recently, but they still felt sacrosanct. The core of who you are should be something outside of anyone’s control but your own. 

An isolated soul is a damaged soul, the Stone insisted. All souls are connected, and therefore all souls are subject to influence. Your influence is greater in many ways, this is just one more.

Influence is one thing, control is another, Tony says. No matter how much someone influences me, the choice is ultimately mine. Even if the options are shitty, I still get to pick from the shitty options. But what I can do, what you can do, is more than that. If I can pull a soul out of someone, can I put it back?

Yes.

Tony took a shaky breath. What if I wanted to put it back somewhere else? Can I play musical chairs with people’s souls?

There’s a pause. Soul feels reluctant. Tony knows the answer before it comes: Yes.

When you warned me not to make contact with that boy’s ghost, Tony goes on, despite the dread that was slowly filling him. What would have happened if I had?

Several things are possible, Soul hedged.

Give me the worst news first, Tony says. Soul hesitates, and Tony waits. He needs to know this.

You could have consumed him, Soul admits. Absorbed his soul and used it to strengthen your own.

Tony swallows down a surge of nausea. His knees feel shaking, but he’s already sitting down. His breath is coming faster. His heart is racing. He drops his head into his hands, struggling to breathe. This wasn’t right, this couldn’t be his life now, he wasn’t the right person, he couldn’t, he couldn’t—

Slowly, Tony becomes aware of a hand resting on his back and another curled around his forearm. A deep voice is murmuring nearby. Tony’s breathing slows bit by bit, and eventually he raises his head to meet Stephen’s gaze.

“Soul called Time, and Time directed me here,” Stephen explains. 

“Makes sense.” Tony takes a shaky breath. “Soul and I were talking about some of the things I can do now. Which apparently includes consuming people’s souls to make my own more powerful.” Stephen winces, but doesn’t seem surprised. Tony stares at him for a minute. “How does that not horrify you?” he demands.

Stephen grimaces. “Sorcerers can do something similar. Not with souls specifically, but with magical creatures, some of which are sentient. It’s frowned upon, but… not forbidden.”

“Not forbidden,” Tony repeats, swallowing down an edge of hysteria. “I really didn’t know what I was getting into when I said yes to this whole deal. I don’t want to be doing this, Stephen. I don’t want to be dealing with ghosts, I don’t want to lie to all my friends, I don’t want to be the guy who gets to decide when it’s okay to suck out someone’s soul, and I don’t want to live forever!” 

“I know,” Stephen says simply. That’s… not what Tony was expecting. He stares. Stephen goes on: “When I found Kamar-Taj, all I wanted was to heal my hands. I didn’t want to be a sorcerer. I didn’t want to be the keeper of the time stone. And I certainly didn’t want to spend 14 million lives facing down Thanos and losing.” He spread his hands. “But the alternative was the death of half of all life. For both of us. Even now, would you choose that instead?”

All the anger drained out of Tony. “No.”

Stephen slowly, carefully takes Tony’s hand. “I know this is hard, but you don’t have to do it alone.”

Tony doesn’t know the name for the feeling rolling off of Stephen now. It’s deep, and intense, and a little like love, but not exactly like that. Whatever it is, there’s a certainty to it that steadies Tony. He takes a deep breath and gently squeezes Stephen’s hand. “Okay, then.”

[merakiui]

Where are you in Penacony? Id love to share my Sunday thots but don’t want to spoil anything for you

I’m currently at the part in which Firefly and the Astral Express (minus Welt) are confronted by Sunday, and he goes through three pivotal moments in his life in which he had to make a choice. And then he quizzes the group on what they’d do if they were faced with the same dilemma.

Thank you very much for your consideration in regards to spoilers. (*´꒳`*)❤︎ there’s so much I want to write for Mr. Sunday, but I hope to first finish Penacony before outlining any stories. Although my first Sunday fic will likely be guardian angel!Sunday or a Sunday in captivity…….. so much is cooking for that chicken wing guy. <3

[statleragainstposers]

I have realised the Croaker's duel at Dennys is on the same day as my grandfather's birthday. This is certainly a dilemma...

Oh well, I'm sure he'll understand my need to astral project during his party. After all, the downfall of the Croaker is imperative.

[nicotinemaiden]

— How I ruined everything by saying it out loud;

Evisser

■ Writer / Artist ■ BG3 obsession ■

[Tav/Durge / Gale / Astarion ■ Bloodweave]

If you like my writing please leave a comment or reblog so that more people can appreciate it!

Fanfiction

Hedgehog's dilemma - E - Smut, Drama, Slow Burn, Love Triangle, NonCon/Rape, Dark themes [(F!Tav)Stengah/Gale/Astarion] [Longfic - WIP] [Word count: 202,586, chapters: 39]

From the chaotic strands of red hair that evaded the cage of her up-do to the high-heeled platform shoes that complemented the side-opened nightgown perfectly, everything about her called to him, screamed to him, drove him crazy.

The wine wasn’t exactly helping, either.

Gale of Waterdeep, wizard extraordinaire, was drowning in it — savouring every sip, every glass, every bottle, just in case it could make him forget the fact that he followed her after all. That, time after time, he had the option to leave yet he was still here. And he had no one to blame but himself.

The sapphire mirrored in his gaze - E - Smut, Jealousy, Porn without much Plot, Inappropriate Use of Evard's Black Tentacles, Tentacle sex, Astral Projection Threesome [(F!Tav) Sissia/Gale] [One-shot] [Word-count: 5,961]

It was not uncommon for Gale to experience the tinge of jealousy at the hands of the woman that had become his obsession — he had become used to admiring her at a friendly distance, the spare moments in which he dared to flirt playfully special but fruitless. And he didn't need them to be fruitful, he didn’t need to risk everything again for a woman.

Not even for the most unique one he would ever meet.

After all, he had little time left in the realm.

Except, after successfully rescuing the tieflings from the Grove from their lackluster fate at Moonrise Towers, the apprentice wizard starts to become a tad too thankful to her.

He just wished it was him Sissia looked at like a midnight snack because his drunk self had far too much imagination on what he would love to do to her.

Little did he suspect he'd have the opportunity to act upon his perverse ideas the moment he tried getting rid of them.

A night to map the centuries - E - Smut, Self-acceptance, Character Study [(F!Tav)Dhyula/Astarion] [One-shot] [Word count: 5,399]

He had just needed to satisfy his curiosity, to drink strong blood in order to be stronger himself since the fights were now a common occurrence, since he refused to be deemed as 'too weak' and left aside.

However, he hadn't expected her to accept him with a worried gaze and gift him her red ambrosia with little more than a word, to make him feel sensations he had all but forgotten, to make him crave the warmth of her skin after centuries of aversion.

The unkown feeling of falling in love - T - Falling in love, realization of feelings [(F!Tav)Shed/Astarion] [One-shot] [Word count: 2,005]

“Astarion, how do you think love would feel? How would we know if we are falling for someone?”

* * *

He tried to think about her question, about how he would know. It was more difficult than he gave it any credit to be, not having an example of it, now having felt it in his own flesh in all his years. He would assume it would start closer to an obsession or a strong attraction, having the person in his mind all the time, wishing for them to be close, or closer in his case, taking a pause to breathe each time their eyes clashed, admiring the dimples on her cheeks each time she fully smiled thanks to him. Yes, those would be signs that something was wrong with him, wouldn’t they?

Free One-Shot Requests: OPEN

If you like the way I write allow me to briefly remind you that you can get a one-shot by simply sending me:

■ A description of your tav/durge (personality + physique, whatever you find important)

■ A basic idea/prompt of what you want to happen to them (for example "I'd like to see Durge soaking in hot springs with Gale!" or "How would Astarion react to Tav rejecting his advances a second time because they don't want to be just a game?" It can be as specific or general as you want.

Just remember I'm doing this just because I love to write and need some variety, without asking for anything in return except patience!

[cooki3face]

💌~ new moon solar eclipse reading: April 20,2023

“What will it bring you”

Pile three 💌:

Affirmation: "everything good is on its way to me. I am calling in abundance, love & success.”

During this eclipse you may need to really take a good amount of time to bask him some grateful energy and some gratitude or really give yourself props for your personal achievements even if they were small and private. You may have found that you’ve been critical of yourself a bit, or have been hard on yourself about keeping up with some of the habits or some of the things you’re trying to teach yourself at this time within your life. Take a step back and really appreciate how far you’ve come already and be patient with yourself. You may be feeling a little spacey or might be in an energy where you may need some rest or may need some down time or you may even be easily distracted at this time but be patient with yourself pile three.

You’ve done so much already. That right there, “you’ve done so much already” maybe sit down tonight and make a list physical or mental of the things you’ve accomplished these last couple of months or weeks. Months or weeks are significant, you could’ve been on a energy trip and really have been working hard. Think about how many positive things have happened to you lately regardless of the slight inconveniences or maybe even the dilemmas or delays you’ve experienced so far. Think about the good news you’ve received or the things within your life and space at this time that have gone positively well. Abraham hicks is significant. She came up some the last time I read tarot. You may follow her on Instagram, you may have heard her content on TikTok or YouTube or may find that her affirmations stuck with you or have been sticking with you as of late or recently.

There could be aspects of your past that have been coming up lately or may be in the back of your mind I’m seeing though. Dreams could be significant or people from your past communicating with you through the astral realm or even memories or nostalgia could be significant. You could find yourself in places that remind you of time you spent in your youth or some time ago, you could be around people who remind you of those things or participating in conversations regarding the past and your memories as of late or your experiences some years ago. There’s something really significant here about revisiting childhood or teenage memories or revisiting the past.

⭐️~ let’s take a look at the five of cups card from the Nicoletta Ceccoli deck that’s also showing up in your reading this evening.

The color red is typically colors that have to do with heavy emotion or even negative emotion. You could have regrets or be disappointed when reminded of your past or experiences things that you’ve dealt with for some time. You could’ve made a lot of mistakes or could’ve emerged out of a lot of failure and I do see you looking back or being reminded of these things and having certain emotions being brought back with it. I don’t sense a feeling of longing or heartbreak but mostly of dissatisfaction and disappointment with certain circumstances but spirit doesn’t want you to hold onto the negative energy surrounding these experiences any longer. You experienced them as you did for a reason and many of you now you’ve grown pile three are aware of why and how that aided you in your journey and growth. But for some of you pile three, you may not know why and that may harbor some feelings of confusion or lack of closure within you. I encourage you to try and turn inwards and identify how your experiences may have helped you or what they may have taught you and find acceptance tonight before you go to bed.

⭐️~ the imagery on this card gives the energy of a child being held or even in your case your inner child being held. In many cultures birds are a representation of many deities. But, red birds typically represent change and renewal. The bird in the card makes me think of a Robin which is a reminder to “uncover happiness.” There may be many memories you have that are apart of your past that may bring many heavy emotions but if you cannot find any happy memories within your past try to focus on being thankful for the present and the possibility of making new memories and moving on pile three.

There is so much abundance coming in for you pile three with this nine of pentacles upright. You’re a very lucky person and you’ve had such good fortune lately and I think that even some of you have been maybe even realizing that lately. “Lucky girl syndrome” could be very significant, I linked an affirmation video in my last tarot reading and that may be really significant to you at this time, that video or that phrase. Your manifestations are coming through during this phase of time and during these upcoming weeks and months, everything that you’re looking for and everything that you need can be found within you and some of you are truly being awakened to that truth. You’re on the journey and walking along the path to a new life a GOOD life. lol I hear “he’s a good man savannah! A good man!” You may have heard that TikTok sound or it’s funny to you.

Your nine of cups is coming, your nine of cups is here even. And nine of cups has everything to do with wish fulfillments, happiness and true satisfaction. That is what I see in your future and in your life pile three.

⭐️~ “here comes the sun” - by the Beatles is being sent to me right now.

You may enjoy soft indie music or rock music. “Tom’s diner” may be significant as well.

I see all of this intuition and all of these new ideas and opportunities to be creative though pile three and it’s very strong and significant. I see you very clearly setting yourself apart from others around you or sort of running circles around people leaving blazing flames behind you. Some of you may be fire signs or have fire sign placements in your chart. There are people watching you or people around you at the moment who may know you’re doing well or are about to do well who may not agree with the direction you’re going or may not agree with the fact that they do not have a place in your life or don’t have access to your energy any longer. These could be people from your past as well. Your past is very significant I’m hearing. You may find that people from your past, from past relationships, romantic or a platonic may try and come back or may try and come speak with you or try and see what you’re doing or how you’re doing and it’s up to you to decide how you want to handle this pile three.

You’re on the brink of so much personal transformation and so much change and often times when people don’t have access to our energy more it pushes them subconsciously or even within their spiritual minds to come forward and say/do things. You could’ve taken your energy back from many people as well and moved on with your life. Someone could be very surprised with you and how you’ve handled yourself or with how you’re doing and how you’re improving without them so keep that in mind. They may not even be coming with good intentions they may be coming just to shake things up or see if they still have any power over you or can still affect you at all. And they may find that they cannot.

⭐️~ your feet and your legs may be of some significance, they make ache, they may hurt or you’ve been running or traveling on foot.

You’re being asked to value your feelings, to remember what you deserve and invest your time and energy into self care. These next upcoming weeks will be a time of rest and rejuvenation and a good time to stay true to yourself and stay true to who you want to be and practice self respect and control. Someone in particular could be coming around that you had some codependency towards. And they may do something to trigger you or try to get under your skin just so they can see if you react or just so that they can get your attention so be wary of this. You’ve completed many cycles and you’ve got the whole world in the palm of your hand pile three and people from your past would only like to have a place and it’s up to you rather to grant them one or not but I hope that you leave them where they are.

Some of you pile three could be in a relationship at this time or even be in love or at peace with someone. Congratulations. Your relationship and your partner could be a big part of your life at this time and very important to you. Remember to prioritize this relationship if and when there is conflict regarding people from your past, you may be tempted to react or be impulsive but always stop and think of your person and how important the love you share is to you. The lovers is your last card in your reading this is a high level soul connection, could me a soulmate, and I do believe that you fully intend to spend your life with this person or be with this person for a very long time and the connection is beautiful and plentiful. Protect what’s yours pile three. Protect your mind, protect your heart, protect your peace, protect your love, your relationships and your partner. By all means lmao.

[number-1-kuaidul-fanboy]

YGO Rivals Ranked

Giving this a try. I put this one off for a while because, to be honest, this is the hardest set of characters to rank or, in some cases, even fully know how I feel about. *glares at one specific character, you all know who it is if you follow me*  So... here’s my best attempt but just know, a lot of these are pretty interchangeable for me. Well, except my number 7 pick.

Oh also I’m not caught on Go Rush and it’s not done but Zwijo is looking to be a pretty good rival so far. He’s not on this list but he’s my favourite character in Go Rush so far so I figured I’d honourably mention him.

Anyways, onto the clear worst rival:

7 Reiji/Declan Akaba

Okay, I don’t dislike Reiji but compared to the other rivals… yeah, he falls pretty short. He’s the worst at being Yuya’s rival, they’re really far apart in age (or at least look that way) and Reiji is also basically his leader/general in seasons 2 and 3. Rivals are supposed to have even footing but not only does Reiji have way too much power over Yuya, he’s also an objectively better duellist than him for almost the entire show. Watching the show, it never registered to me that Reiji was “supposed” to be the rival, he fulfills that role so poorly. I don’t particularly dislike him. He’s an awful person but I do feel like the narrative usually condemns his actions (unlike a certain OTHER CHARACTER) or at least uses his awfulness as a way to illustrate the show’s themes of war corrupting both sides. I could never work up much effort to dislike him nut I couldn’t work up any effort to like him either. Sawatari should’ve been the main rival, Reiji really just isn’t anything special outside of his dub voice (which is a given, it’s Billy Bob Thompson) and some sparse moments but otherwise, he serves his role as everything but Yuya’s rival perfectly fine.

6 Roa Kirishima

To be honest, I have no clue who people consider the main rival of Sevens. Luke has the most presence opposing Yuga but he’s definitely more of the best friend character, Romin and Gakuto are both just friends to Yuga so for me, it was a toss up between Roa and Neil. And I’m choosing Roa because A) he was introduced first and B) he has specific beef with Yuga due to Otis choosing Yuga over him. He isn’t much of a rival after that first arc but he was still an interesting foil to Yuga as well as an antagonist to Romin. He’s also pretty funny, especially when the joke is at his expense. He’s not super deep or compelling which is why he’s this low but he’s all he needed to be: an entertaining rival and eventual friend to Yuga.

5 Kaito Tenjo

Hear me out. I love Zexal but one of my biggest problems with it was always how the second half of the show treated Kaito. He was a major character in the first half, a huge threat to Astral and Yuma and a catalyst for their development, and through it all, he was sympathetic and interesting. The final duel of season one is one of my favourites in Zexal because of his dilemma in it. He is great in Zexal I. And then Zexal II just… had no clue what to do with him. He doesn’t do anything but duel Mizael and die on the moon. His death was also poorly conveyed and confusing and yes I am talking about the sub here, that’s the definitive version of Zexal to me. The second half didn’t ruin Kaito or anything but I do feel that it ended up making me like Kaito less than I feel I should.

4 Jack Atlas

(Important note here that I prefer 5Ds in dub and primarily know it that way but have seen the final sub-exclusive arc, so I’m referring to dub Jack, though I’m familiar with both versions.)

While it’s definitely a less extreme case than Kaito, Jack is another character who I feel peaked in the first half of his show and then in the second half, doesn’t get much to do and feels flat as a result. Even putting aside the whole Carly retcon (which really is disgusting in the context of the show’s continuity), Jack just doesn’t have the same presence or narrative importance in that second half of the show and it feels like his development from Dark Signers was a little ignored. Like, as much as I love Yusei and Jack’s final duel and where that finale leaves all its characters, Jack’s obsession with being a lone wolf felt kind of off? Despite this however, Jack remained consistently entertaining (funny) post Dark Signers, even if that arc is where he peaked: it’s where he’s at his most interesting and relatable. And his most tragic. Do you have a minute to talk about our lord and saviour JackxCarly?-

Seriously though, that duel is where he peaked. Sorry not sorry.

3 Seto Kaiba

(Note: DM is the other Yugioh I primarily know in dub so again, I’m primarily talking about dub Kaiba here)

Kaiba has always been my favourite DM character. Heck, he was the one part of the show I legitimately enjoyed in the first half of Duelist Kingdom. Before that Yugi vs Kaiba duel on the tower, I was watching the show for completely ironic reasons. What can I say? I have a soft spot for the douchebags with a secret heart of gold, especially when that heart of gold is for their younger sibling. He’s also hilarious. Actually, out of every character on this list, Kaiba is probably the funniest to me: his snarkiness and absurd duelling obsession is a riot. He’s so over the top and douchey and dramatic and it is hilarious. He was the one thing that kept me going through that dreadful virtual arc. He’s also legit badass when he needs to be, like in the final arc when he went up against Z-Orc. Also, and this is probably because he’s the OG rival, but Kaiba is narratively the best rival of all these characters. He and Yugi are constantly at odds and duel each other multiple times throughout the show. Kaiba is the bane of Yugi’s existence yet also his ally when Yugi really needs him to be and it works pretty well. While I like the other rival characters, none of them ever quite got to this same degree of precise narrative importance.

2 Jun Manjome

And my GX character bias shines through again. But come on, how could I not love this silly dorky little creature of a man? Admittedly, what GX’s god awful dub did to Manjome makes it really hard for me to admit this, especially since it’s been a while since I’ve watched GX all the way through. But honestly, while I’m rusty on some story details of GX, I don’t feel rusty on the characters and I’ve always unironically liked Manjome. At first, he was just a typical snobbish school bully character but then we learn more about him: that his family put all this pressure on him to be exceptional lest he not be the “underachiever” of the family, which is something I relate to immensely to put it lightly. He also had a very relatable story arc in season four (seriously, his words when the students overcome Darkness stick with me the most out of all of them) and is consistently pretty funny. Like, legitimately a funny charming character in the sub. And like. A real person, not just a stupid joke. No, I will not stop repeatedly punching the GX dub in the face, it’s so bad-

But anyways, Manjome good. Really the only thing I don’t like about him is his honestly creepy simping over Asuka, which is more the show’s fault than his in my opinion and it’s not nearly as grating to me as Revolver’s racism.

Oh, right, speaking of which…

…

God, I hate to say this-

1 Revolver/Ryoken Kogami

*bashes head against a wall* God, why the hell am I saying this? Oh my god. Am I seriously this gay?

(Important note: I am ignoring Duel Links in this conversation, do not bring up Revolver’s flanderised stupid ass behaviour in Duel Links. I do not consider that to be an accurate representation of him.)

Seriously, take this placement with a grain of salt: my opinion on this character has changed so many times I can barely keep track anymore. However, he (tied with Ai) is the character I’ve written the most about on my AO3 so I definitely like him. However, while I do my best to keep him in character, I basically give Ryoken the development I felt he should’ve had in canon, which really exacerbates the feeling I’ve always had that canon Ryoken is an incomplete character. His visceral blind hatred toward the Ignis simply for existing always rubbed me the wrong way. I can tolerate it in season 1 since he’s a villain and his actions are very clearly condemned by the narrative. However, when he comes back in season 2 as an ally of the heroes still believing in this bigotry, it seemingly presents said bigotry (which is always phrased uncomfortably similarly to real life bigotry) as a debatable ‘agree to disagree’ topic, which is irresponsible and disgusting. I’ve covered this in more detail in the past so I won’t harp on this for too much longer but just know that this irritates me personally and I am being restrained. I’m aware Ryoken believes what he does because of his father’s brainwashing but… that’s the other issue. Ryoken, onscreen, never grows out of his blind loyalty toward his father, who neglected him, brainwashed him, and tortured children before his eyes when he was EIGHT. It doesn’t surprise me that Ryoken was messed up by this, and honestly it’s a compelling setup, but it’s a set up with no pay off, which makes his bigotry toward the Ignis unbearable. And it didn't need to be this way. Just cut that stupid ass scene in the season 3 clipshow episode where he goes “yeah, I still believe in genocide-ing the Ignis even after everything that happened last season” then maybe I could believe that the moments where he doesn’t seem fully sold that Ai is a threat at first and later entrusts Playmaker with the fate of mankind actually meant something!

…wow that’s a lot of negative things about Revolver. Would you be surprised to hear that I actually really love him? When he’s not being racist scum, his personality is actually pretty appealing. He’s very calculated and downright vicious as a duellist, but not out of hate. He respects his opponents and shows that respect by giving the duel no less than his all and I like that. It’s interesting. I also like how despite being a villain/anti-hero, he still has a level of honour/respect, even for his adversaries. Like when he kept his promise to give Playmaker the cure to the computer virus infecting Blue Angel after Playmaker beat him. The only time I recall him not giving his all in a duel was that first duel against Soulburner and that was in an admittedly clumsy attempt to make amends with him for the Lost Incident. Because Revolver is physically incapable of directly voicing how he feels and honestly, that’s probably the most relatable trait out of every character on this list. I know some people hate it but I relate to it so hard. And use it for comedic purposes in my writing way more often than I probably should. I have nothing but respect for Revolver as a duellist, he’s very skilled and respectful and I love his duels and while I don’t agree with what he fights for most of the time, he still fights that fight with honour. But I just have so much fun dunking on him as a person. He’s so fucking stupid yet simultaneously talks existential shit like some kind of genius and on a side note, his Japanese voice is so good, I could listen to him talk for hours. Oh my gosh-

Okay, I need to be honest for a minute. Revolver is not the best rival character. Kaiba is the best at fulfilling the rival role and Manjome has the most solid character arc. Either one of them is more legitimately deserving of this spot than Revolver. The reason Revolver is here is because I’d feel bad making people scroll past an abnormally long wall of text just to see who all of my picks are. I wrote so much more about Revolver than any other character on this list because whether I like it or not, Revolver is the character I feel most passionately about and that’s… at least partially for canon reasons. So… yeah, I feel comfortable saying I love him, just with the disclaimer of “he was mishandled in season 3 and completely bastardised in Duel Links.”

[lakelewisia]

The Hedgehog Dilemma was heavily researched at the college, as both literal and figurative manifestations of it tended to be heavily represented among Lewisian relationships. From hugging prosthetics to astral cuddle sessions, they tested methods for allowing intimacy between those who might otherwise be considered hopelessly incompatible. Whether they had poison barbs or PTSD, everyone deserved the option of getting as close as they wanted to that rare someone for whom such things would never be deterrent enough to drive them off.

[entering--hyperspace]

Empágos rambles:

First impressions and the moment they realized they were dancing towards something deeper

2. First impressions of each other and how that changed

It's funny because the Dream Visitor disguise made Págos even more distrustful of The Emperor than his actual apperance as a mindflayer would have. Págos is incredibly insightful (proficiency), he knows manipulation, deceit, he knows someone trying to curry favor for their own agenda. He was a soldier, he was taught to do the same thing, of course he would know. So he treated this stranger, someone who appealed too much to his own taste, with none of the true experience to back up the apperance of a grizzled veteran, not to its fullest. So their interactions felt like tip toeing on ice as ive described it before, but there would be moments where the mask would slip, either the emperor would get too fustrated, or he would accidentally let his guard down to whatever he was struggling with. /That/ is what págos would push towards trying to see, and its what kept him from being too antagonistic. 

Meanwhile, The Emperor only saw what Págos vaguely remembered, which already created a bit of a fustrating dilemma. Even moreso when Págos showed he could match every move me made with his own, it made winning him over hard, and it was personally infuriating dealing with someone who shouldnt be able to see past what he was trying to do but Could. Eventually I think this grew into begrudging Admiration, and the games of them poking each other for more information became somewhat pleasant in a way, a chess match with an equal opponent. Overtime, Págos became less of an ally out of necessity, but an ally because he Wanted him to be. He had grown attached to their debates and mind games, he had grown comfortable in the recesses of Págos' mind. Following his actions, delving into his mind as if it were a banquet to pick and choose from, which págos allowed willingly.

3. When did they first "fall" for each other

 I did talk about this on twitter a lot before, but Essentially, for The Emperor he had to go through this entire process of figuring out what exactly he wanted this allyship with págos to be. Págos is different from his previous allies in a way that almost seemed too good to be true. Just as long as he kept the mask up itd work, which was only partially correct. The moment he realized he was fond of him was the moment he realized he could lose him. The fear, the anger of the mask being ripped off and the possibility of death swirling around. This entire time he was puppeteering from the shadows with the upperhand but now he was bloodied and beaten and laying before him. It was scary, págos held his and everyones life in his hands at that moment and yet his expression was stone, his mind was silent, he could not predict what he would say or do. He did not want to lose what he had gained, he was Desperate not to. And then, an offered hand, and the relief that came with it. When págos told him he trusted him more as a mindflayer now than he would have had he kept disguises up it was a new chapter for him and whatever a partnership with págos would entail.

For Págos, it was the talk on the bench in the astral prism, when the emperor's mind wandered into letting him in. It was one of the first conversations they had where there wasnt any disguises in place. The conversation lasted a lot longer in my canon, with págos kind of talking to him about why he doesnt have any particular prejudice against mindflayers and how he sees the world. Even kind of confiding in how he feels different than his companions and finds more comfort in the way the emperor also interprets things. While The Emperor talks about his own experience with his transformation, and how even though hes feeling grief its not an unwelcome emotion bc at least he still Feels something. They end up bonding a lot over the shared feeling of disconnect, and all of their previous conversations are given new light now that identities were revealed, making págos more interested in who he is Himself and their dynamic.

[harlronica]

Aldebaran Starseed/Blue Rays/Family of Archangel Michael

It's important to note that everybody has Starseed Alignments in their astrological birth chart. However, not everybody is currently incarnated to awaken to their Starseed journey and purpose. We are all Starseed's of different soul origins but not all of us feel the influence of our Star Gate's due to the fact that we did not all incarnate to undergo our spiritual awakening in this lifetime. We all have a purpose in life whether it's adding to our incarnation cycle to further our soul evolvement or undergoing a spiritual awakening meaning this is now intended to be your last incarnation you will make in the physical form. Your Starseed origin(s) are found within your astrological constellation markers/fixed stars and their degrees in your birth chart.

Starseed's are advanced hybrid human beings that originate as a celestial light source of consciousness from star systems outside of our solar sun, representing the expansional extraterrestrial hosted platforms of their consciousness, and capacities to hold greater missions on Earth not defined by human limitations.

*Characteristics & Traits*

The Family of Archangel Michael are Violet and Blue Ray descendants of the First Order founder ray of the Melchizedek Elohim grail line.

They are a part of the guardian consciousness and hold the ARC portal system which allows many races to enter into and out of our time matrix.

Aldebaran is the brightest star in the Taurus constellation and is wrapped up very closely with the star system Pleiades.

This origin exudes a militant, warrior, protector, and hero energy for deep angelic reason. Aldebaran is the true celestial influence and guiding radial light source to Archangel Michael.

Having this origin in any planetary position means that Archangel Michael has incarnated within you and will be within your every heartbeat in this incarnation. This is your guiding angel in the angelic kingdom of source self.

This is the original grail line to Yeshua, Jesus Christ, Sananda, and the king of Solomon lineage.

One may activate the ascension codes in the DNA through Christed memories as one's own experience. You may relive the crucifixion and events that took place through powerful emotional Akashic remembrance.

The Aldebaran origin would indicate an undeniable connection to the Blue Flame/Ray and Violet Flame/Ray of the Elohim.

Aldebaran is the vision holder for the Starseed mission on Earth, defining what emissaries of light can best accomplish to serve humanity through evolutionary transition.

Many with this origin will consistently face moral dilemmas that challenge their integrity. When success is presented to you it's important to remember not to be tempted to compromise your position and go against your own integrity.

Those with this origin have a strong warrior spirit, and often feel as if they are the angel of justice.

Blue Ray beings came to transform the damaged, mutated DNA of humanity, and set the stage for the other rays to come.

For the last 100 years the Indigos, Rainbows, Crystals, and Blue Rays have been incarnating to create a vibrational shift to the higher dimensions. Blue Rays are often overlooked. However, it is because of them that Earth will be able to take her rightful place in the galactic and universal councils of oneness and peace.

"Transformers" of the star groups and have the power to naturally transmute lower energies.

Ultra sensitive, intuitive, and can easily communicate with the higher realms. Extremely prone to astral projection more so than any other star group.

Often mistaken for Indigo children as, like Indigos, they carry the same 'eccentric' and warrior-like personality. However, Blue Rays are more quiet and reserved than the Indigos and seem quite mystical in the way that they look. They usually have an Indigo or Crystal parent.

It is very important for Blue Rays, like Indigo children, to express themselves as it is a crucial part of their mission.

Likely to have started speaking later on in childhood. Like Sirians and Pleiadeans they communicate on a telepathic level.

Have blue and violet in their energetic field to help with transmuting lower densities. It's important to work with Archangel Michael and/or Saint Germain and the Violet Fire.

Most are energy or spiritual healers and are associated with the divine feminine traits. Music and nature is very important to them.

Most are not born to enlightened spiritual consciousness parents. They have to heal and transform much family genetic damage, emotional trauma, and dysfunction first.

Very sensitive to foods, chemicals, the environment, noise, and electricity. Likely to develop rashes on different areas of their body or eczema.

Many have entities, spirit attachments, and negative thought forms come to them because Blue Rays transform and show them the light.

The initiators and activators out of the star groups. They're likely to trigger people through their very laser like energy, their ability to read situations deeply, or through their very presence. They automatically bring the shadow side of others to the light to be purified.

Deeply connected to Sirius, Sirian Lion beings, Archangel Michael, whales, dolphins, and Ancient Egypt.

Highly gifted with super sensory perception, telepathic and telekinesis abilities with communicating and seeing other realms, nature spirits, angels and extraterrestrials can be very common and natural to them.

Most have learning disabilities. Blue Rays can be walk-ins, been born as one, or merge with their Blue Ray essence later in life.

Like Pleiades, a Blue Ray alignment/astrological chart marking will not go unknown and these people are meant to undergo a spiritual awakening to one extent or another in this incarnation.

For business inquiries please email harlronicareads@gmail.com ! I'm currently offering Full Starseed Origin chart readings for $30 and basic Starseed Origin chart readings for $20 which is a shorter reading than what you receive with the Full Origin reading. I accept paypal/venmo and do not require payment until after the reading.

Sadly, I have discontinued the Twin Flame Synastry readings as they were becoming too hectic and people were not happy with their results. It's always important to remember that no reading you ever purchase can fully determine whether or not you are on a Twin Flame Journey as that is something you will always have to learn for yourself. Any reader who tells you that they can accurately tell you whether or not you are is lying. My work is very important to me and I will always have the buyer's best interests at heart which is why I felt as if it was time to discontinue this service.