#ch: Epoch

[mikashisus]

Abandon Ship

"had i told the sea what i felt for you, it would have left its shores, its shells, its fish, and followed me."

— nizar qabbani

summary: With one of the Remurian fleets hot on your tail and stolen treasure of the crown on your ship, you were ready to take to the Eastern Seas.

When one of your crewmates catches a mermaid of all things on the outskirts of the Dark Sea, you finally think you’ve hit the jackpot when it comes to treasure.

In the end, however, you come to a startling revelation: is all the treasure in the world really worth more than a life? And suddenly, you have to make a choice… either a huge sum of gold, or the man you’ve fallen head over heels in love with.

pairing: mermaid!neuvillette x fem!pirate!reader

content warnings: angst, slight mentions of traff!cking (not detailed, dialogue centered), foul language, mentions of alcohol, violence, mentions of trauma, mentions of torture (not detailed, dialogue centered), blood and injury, and suggestive themes

other disclaimers: very canon divergent, takes place a few hundred years before the archon war, mc would have a pyro vision if this was post-archon war, mentions of other characters, use of ocs for plot purposes

regula solis epoch masterlist

ch.1 wc: 5.7k

author’s notes: it was about time i made a pirate/mermaid au, and who better to do it with than neuvillette.

originally, this was also supposed to include wriothesley, but after awhile of deliberation, i decided not to. instead, one of my ocs is gonna be a second lead to fill in the love triangle.

if u get attached to my oc, im sorry. dw tho, he also appears as a second lead in one of my venti fics ;)

CHAPTER 1

The Remurian ports were exceptionally busy in the late afternoons, when the sun was falling slowly over the ocean’s horizon and the cerulean waves lapped roughly against the wooden docks of the harbor. Deep oranges and enchanting pinks filled the sky as the sun cast a golden glow upon the faces of the passerby.

Merchants shouted eagerly, their voices overriding one another as they fought to ring in new customers. People from all walks of life filled the harbor, stopping briefly to awe at the wares being sold at the vendor stalls. The lively chatter echoed through the late afternoon air, accompanied by laughter and the occasional discord.

A family passed by, their thick accents revealing them to be desert folk from the lands ruled by the Scarlet King. They gawked at the gorgeous, finely handcrafted Remurian jewelry a vendor was selling. The vendor welcomed them with a warm smile and a friendly wave. Despite the language barrier, the two parties grew to understand one another through mere gestures and patience.

The heat from the bodies packed together in the vicinity and the warm Summer air did not help to alleviate your growing frustration. As you shuffled through the tight crowds of the busy harbor, someone shoved their way past you. You sent them a sneer and returned their sentiments with an elbow jab, before tipping your hat over your eyes and upping your pace.

As you walked, the golden feather on your belt jingled loudly, joined by the sound of the tiny silver bells adorning your boots.

A cool, refreshing evening breeze blew past, knocking your hat up. The sky was beginning to fade into a wondrous blue. The wind of the North appeared ever-present, causing a smile to break out onto your lips at the thought.

Wherever you were in the world, her protection hovered over you like a safety net.

The heels of your boots clacked against the cobblestone as you turned your attention back to the task at hand. All you needed was a few tools to fix a cannon.

The last ones you owned had been tossed overboard after one of your crewmates broke them in half due to his rather hardy grip. The matter was not one of utter importance, but you preferred to have working cannons at all times.

Thankfully, you knew someone in the harbor who would be more than willing to give you the tools you needed. Your eyes wandered the harbor, searching for the shop with a wooden fist as its logo. The tools shop could be easily visible during the day, but not so much at night. It was a relatively small shop; It branched off from the well known blacksmithing shop in the city.

One too many times have you paid a visit to the forgery owned by a man who was old enough to be your father. You spent way too many Summers in that forgery, hacking away at iron with one of his hammers and wiping the sweat from your brow.

The forgery was always scalding hot, putting even the most blazing Sumeru summers to shame. The heat always made you feel dizzy and dehydrated, as if you would melt into a puddle right where you stood. Stepping outside after a long afternoon’s work always felt refreshing. The fresh breeze felt like icicles on your scorching skin as you dumped a bucket of ice cold water over your head.

You were lucky you never suffered from a heat stroke.

Absentmindedly, you kept a hand steady on your scabbard. Upon reaching the tools shop, you loosened your grip. The blade at your hip had not been pulled for quite some time, though you always kept a hand resting on its hilt.

After years of carrying it with you, you adopted a habit of staying on guard. It was a mere precaution your father taught you to take during your childhood when he first let you pick up a sword.

The excited chatter of the harbor began to dwindle as the sun fully faded over the horizon and the sky was cloaked in a blanket of blues and purples. The crowds that once took homage on the docks severed like the late afternoon breeze. Vendors packed up their wares for the night, and the loud hustle and bustle hushed into idle whispers.

The loud clacking of your boots against the pavement came to an abrupt stop as you eagerly greeted the man standing behind the counter of the tools shop. A warm smile graced your lips.

You couldn’t help but feel a sense of relief that this young man was the one manning the shop at this hour. The gods seemed to be on your side of the sails as of late.

“Mory!”

You tipped your hat in greeting and leaned your elbow against the wooden countertop. Your other hand came to rest in a fist on your jutted out hip. One of your legs crossed over the other as you let the counter support half of your weight. The golden chains on your hat jingled with your movements, as did the golden feather hanging from your belt.

“Business boomin’ today, I presume? Sure looks like it did.” You motioned to the small amount of tools missing from their display, and the diminishing crowd behind you.

The harbor was closing for the day. You were awfully lucky you arrived when you did.

The young man before you scoffed. “Not much, ‘m afraid, Cap’n.”

Mory Maye was a young man of only eighteen years old, with tousled dark brown curls on his head and striking hazel eyes that bore directly into your soul. His skin was perfectly kissed by the sun, a testament to the years of working harsh summers in the openness of his father’s forgery, as well as a depiction of his mother’s Sumerian genetics.

It was the very same forgery you worked in before your father taught you the ways of the sword.

His father, a kindhearted and deeply compassionate man who was undeniably loyal to those he considered his family and friends, was Tyler Maye; or, “Ol Ty” in the streets of the harbor. Due to the man’s ailing health, he assigned young Mory to take over the forgery for him in a few months’ time, when he would be leaving the comfort of his home to go stay in a hospital where his health would be monitored constantly.

His declining health and your time out at sea hindered your chances of visiting him. The man treated you like his own daughter, yet you would not be able to see him from here on out. Your status as a criminal blocked out any chances you had at possibly paying him a visit while he was in the hospital. Although it saddened you, there was absolutely nothing you could do about it.

As for Mory, he occasionally worked at the forgery with his two brothers, Lear and Nicolas. When he was not working under the blazing sun at the forgery, he was manning this tools shop and selling wares to the same few customers who stopped by— one of them being you. It was practice for when he would take over both businesses.

His work at the forgery was evident in the calluses on his hands and his bulging muscles. Anyone could spot that he was a hard working boy that spent long hours refining weapons since he was ten years old. Many were more than impressed with his handiwork and physique— namely, the girls in the city that walked in circles around the shop just to watch him hack away at iron with a hammer you once used during your time working there.

One of those girls was the daughter of a nobleman that stopped by everyday to start idle chatter with him. It was obvious to anyone with eyes that she was deeply infatuated with him and was desperately trying to get his attention. She was akin to a lovesick puppy. However, she was incredibly soft spoken, and it did not help that Mory failed to realize her shy flirting time and time again. He was a little dense when it came to love.

“How long will you be ‘ere, Cap?” He questioned, watching as you placed a small bag of coins onto the countertop.

A sigh escaped your lips. “Not long, I’m afraid. Plannin’ to leave Remuria and head off towards the Eastern Seas pretty soon.”

A sound akin to a disgusted grunt left his mouth. His tone dropped down to a serious one as he made eye contact with you. “Better watch those seas, Cap. They ain’t kind… ‘specially since they’re close to that ‘Dark Sea’ the sailors keep talkin’ ‘bout.”

He wrapped a small set of tools in a bag made of cloth and took the gold coins you gave to him. He stopped short as he finished counting, “You gave me twice as much the price, Cap.” He sent you a confused glance.

A hand reached forward to ruffle his hair, messing his curls up further. A smile graced your lips. “Buy yourself that nice broadsword you been eyein’ from Idostin. Consider it recompense to Ol Ty for all that he’s done for me all these years.”

A small pink tint appeared on his cheeks, hardly visible due to his finely tanned skin. A bright smile broke out onto his face, revealing his pearly white teeth. He nodded curtly. From his relaxed shoulders and his giddy expression, you could tell he was more than thankful. “Thanks, Cap. I reckon I will.”

You nodded and sent him a pointed look. “And talk to that girl, while yer at it.” You took the bag of tools and tied it to your belt. “Ol Ty’s gonna start pesterin’ you ‘bout a partner soon. Hop to it before the naggin’ begins.”

Knowing that old geezer, he was more than likely already bothering Mory about the matter of marriage and finding a partner. Your own father used to do the same when you were Mory’s age.

The young man rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly. A frown made its way to his face. “I know Pop’s wantin’ to see me married before he goes, but I don’t wanna force myself. Plus, I got my whole life to find the right person. I…” he sighed, “I think I already have.”

The look he sent you said it all. For many years, you have known of his obvious crush on you. The time spent together in the forgery and in your father’s backyard refining your swordsmanship spoke of years of longing glances tossed your way and standing way too close for comfort. His jokes and laughter that permeated the air as you slacked off instead of working, his invites to the beach, and the gifts that he brought you— they all told of his feelings for you.

But you were too old for him, and he needed to know that.

Turning the boy down was never easy, but you felt as if you had to shout it in his face now for him to actually get it through his thick skull. The way his face fell, filled with heartbreak and despair, was also never easy. But it had to be done.

He shut his eyes tight, a heavy sigh leaving his lips. His brows furrowed together in hurt. As his hazel eyes opened to glance up at you with the look of a kicked puppy in them, you felt the guilt well up inside you.

“I know, Cap.” The hurt in his cracked voice did not help with the guilt you were already feeling. “I’ll talk to Lady Madeline the next time she stops by Pop’s forgery.”

Through your guilt, you mustered up a small smile and clapped him on the shoulder. For a young man with experience working in a forgery and muscles bigger than most boys his age, he winced at the impact of the smack. You didn’t hit him that hard, did you?

“Glad to hear it. I’ll see ya when the sea brings us back to Remuria.” You bid him farewell, the guilt from before leaving your veins as you began to leave the shop.

He returned your warm smile and waved high into the air. “May the North Wind bless your sails, Cap!”

The ship rocked carefully along the incoming tides on the edges of the shore. The sun had completely fallen over the horizon, long replaced by a blindingly white moon high in the dark sea of stars.

It was a quiet night. The sounds of water dripping from the ceiling of the cave and the soft chatter of sailors on the ship were a welcome melody. In the distance, a bird chirped as it flew through the cloudless sky.

Taking a seat on the edge of the ship and dangling her feet over the side, she listened to the soft gossip of the sailors working on the ship behind her. Before the captain returned, lots of work had to be done. The ship had to be thoroughly cleaned, everyone’s clothes were to be washed, a new import of fresh food and water had to be picked up from the harbor, and the small boy on board had to be fed and babysat.

She recounted the day’s events.

Before the captain left for the harbor, she helped in thoroughly cleaning the ship and fixing the cannons. The captain also helped out with retrieving the fresh goods from a friend of hers nearby. After all of that work was finished, she gave a few final orders to her crew, and disembarked on a small trip to the harbor to buy new tools to fix one of the cannons.

Leni let out a content sigh as she closed her eyes. It was the perfect night for a stroll. She had taken one earlier during sunset. It was a quick stroll, as she had to return to the ship and carry out the captain’s orders in her stead. Though it was only a few minutes, she was thankful for the respite from the constant rocking of the ship.

Although she had gotten used to being on a ship, there were times when she missed being on land and on stable ground. Months out on the sea were quite tiring. A small break from it to take in the Remurian Summer breeze was very much needed— not just for her and the captain, but for the rest of the crew as well.

In the distance, she spotted a familiar figure making their way towards the cave. She squinted, trying her best to make out the figure in the darkness. Upon seeing their hand wave high into the air to greet her, a bright smile erupted onto her face. She jumped up from her spot.

The sand was damp in the cave, causing your boots to sink as you walked. Due to the criminal record The Night Howler’s crew possessed, you had to dock the ship a safe distance away from Capitolium, Remuria’s capitol. That was why the ship had to be hidden in a grotto behind a waterfall. It was a safety precaution.

You walked up the sturdy wooden ramp leading onto the ship and greeted your crew with a tip of your hat. You placed your hands on your hips as

you began barking orders around the ship.

“All hands! We take to the seas in ten minutes!”

Letting out a sigh, you untied the bag of tools from your belt. Vincent, your main handyman on board, walked up to you. You placed the bag of tools into his large, callused hand.

He was a rather large man, with scars all over his biceps and a full beard that made him look older than he was. He was taller than most of the crew and acted as everyone’s big brother. Any heavy duty work was passed to him to handle. Out of the entire crew, he was one of the most reliable.

He took the bag and let out a heavy sigh. “‘M rather sorry ‘bout the tools again, Cap’n.”

He had a thick South Remurian accent that most of the sailors in the royal navy possessed. A majority of the South Remurian population had this accent, as did you and your late father. However, your accent was not as thick as Vincent’s.

A reassuring smile made its way to your lips. “No worries, Vin. Those ones were old anyway. We needed a new set.”

Some of your crew was idly standing by, chatting amongst each other as they prepared the ship. The loud clapping of your hands drew them out of their stupor, making them flinch. You sent them a pointed look as they turned to you.

“We leave in less than ten minutes! Do you lot not know the meaning of ‘get to work’? Or do I have to show you?”

They vigorously shook their heads and picked up their pace, preparing the ship faster than before.

“No, Captain!”

Your brows narrowed. “Then get to it!”

The sound of your yell prompted them to move faster. They scrambled along the deck to do as they were told. You turned back to Vincent with a sigh and an expectant look that told him to get moving. He did not need to be told twice. He cleared his throat and excused himself before shuffling his way down below the deck to fix that stubborn cannon.

A smooth voice permeated the air as your first mate sauntered up to you with her hands on her hips. “Look who’s back from the port!” She let out a giggle, “You sure know how to make an entrance, Captain!”

Leni, your first mate, had luscious black curls that were currently tied up into a high ponytail with a bandana. A few stray strands of hair fell to frame her round face. Her copper skin shone like bronze under the light of the lanterns littered around the ship. Her viridescent eyes were a welcome sight after the hours you spent in the harbor.

The sleeves of her tattered white blouse were rolled up to her elbows, exposing a few of the cultural tattoos dancing along her forearms. Two of the top buttons of her blouse were undone, and a beaded necklace lay flat against the curvature of her collarbone. A few golden bangles adorned her left wrist.

As she stopped in front of you, your shoulders immediately relaxed at her presence. You let out a huge sigh of relief and brought her in for a tight hug. The smell of saltwater and Sumeru roses wafted off of her person. They were a contrasting combination, but it comforted you nonetheless.

The two of you met during your days of working in Ty’s forgery, when the sun beat down harshly on your damp skin, and the heat from the furnaces made you dizzy. At that time, she was only a visitor to Remuria. She claimed to have been on vacation, but appeared to be by herself with no one to accompany her. With what little money she had, she asked you in her native language to repair her mother’s old polearm.

You didn’t quite understand what she said at first, but you could tell from her hand gestures alone that she wanted the weapon repaired.

With careful and precise work, you dutifully restored the weapon. You admired the finished work, complimenting the original craftsmanship of the handle, and the cultural symbols engraved into it.

Leni, with as much effort as she could muster, thanked you for your work in Remurian. To your surprise, she picked up the language quite quickly by listening in to the conversations happening around her in the city. You offered to teach her the language in its entirety, and she gratefully accepted.

You learned more about her family when she moved in with you.

Both of her parents had been born into a tribe in the Sumeru Desert. There, they were dancers who carried dual swords and practiced a sacred art passed down through many generations. At the time of Leni’s thirteenth birthday, her parents had passed away unexpectedly due to reasons that were unknown to you. However, with the way she spoke, you knew it most likely had to do with matters within their tribe.

In a hurry to escape, Leni fled the desert and sought refuge in Remuria, where she began anew after meeting you and your father.

Despite whatever she may have faced before you met her, you were more than grateful that she was here, standing tall in front of you with a blinding smile on her face and filled head to toe with enthusiasm. Her smile was always a welcome sight when you harbored any stress or worries.

Whenever she smiled, her eyes would close and crinkle together, dimples would dent her cheeks, and her small nose would scrunch up. She always showed her teeth as well, where you could spot a small gap in between two of her teeth on the upper left side of her jaw— supposedly from a time when she got a tooth knocked out of her mouth. She had freckles, too; They were just barely visible, but if you focused hard enough, you could see them.

Vincent returned from below the deck, wiping the sweat from his brow. He walked towards you, his hands covered in grease and the smell of gunpowder wafting off of his person.

“We’re ready for departure, Cap’n.” He told you. Before you could ask, he answered your unspoken question with a hearty smile. “Tha’ stubborn cannon is fixed, too. No need ta worry ‘bout it anymore.”

You returned his smile and let out a relieved sigh. “Good. Make way for the Eastern Seas!”

At your command, the ship began to take off, slowly rocking as it gained speed and disembarked from the cave. As it passed through the waterfall, freezing water poured over your head, drenching you head to toe. You let out a small laugh.

The cold water felt refreshing on your hot skin after spending your afternoon in the blazing sun. The nighttime air was brisk, though it was not cool enough to fully get rid of the sweat forming on the brows of your crew.

The ship picked up speed as it left the mainland, easing into a steady pace as the waves passed gently underneath. The ocean was calm tonight. It was a stark contrast to the raging storm you faced upon entering Remuria two months ago. The sails of your ship were blessed with a fairly serene voyage this time, it seemed.

As the wind blew, ruffling your hair, you noticed a look of contemplation on Leni’s face. She stood shoulder to shoulder with you, her hands on her hips and her chin held high. An aura of confidence radiated off of her. It was one that dared others to challenge her. The crease in her brow made you wonder what was on her mind. There was a subtle movement in her thin lips that looked almost like a tug at her bottom lip.

She had a habit of biting her bottom lip whenever there was something troubling her. That, and she would begin playing with the gold bangle on her wrist. At that moment, she reached for the bangle on her wrist and began fiddling with it. Immediately, you knew that something was worrying her. Before you could open your mouth to ask what was on her mind, she spoke.

“Where are we headed now, Cap?” She questioned, gently jabbing you in the side with her elbow.

“Inazuma.” A smirk appeared on your lips as you watched her verdant eyes go wide in mixed horror and surprise. “The land of the Narukami is a frightening one, but we’ll conquer it like we always do. Plus, I know someone within the merchant’s guild that would be more than willing to take that bounty off our hands.”

The wooden deck creaked under your boots as you retreated into the captain’s quarters. With a bit of hesitation, Leni followed. She allowed the door to slam shut behind the two of you. The cabin was encased in a brief silence, the only sound being the splashing of the waves outside your closed windows.

The bounty you mentioned sat on your table in the middle of the room, the pure gold and vibrant emeralds glittering in the light of the moon that filtered in through the glass window to your left.

The stolen crown of Queen Catalina weighed heavy on the ship like an anchor. The prized possession was worth more than the entirety of Mondstadt and King Remus’ treasure vault combined.

Next to you, Leni sent you an uneasy glance. “(Name)... is this really going to sell for a high price? It’s not even from Remuria… it’s from Western Mondstadt’s god king.”

Unlike you, Leni did not know much about the gods of other lands. She had been born into a tribe that worshipped The Scarlet King and the Goddess of Flowers. They did not have much knowledge on other gods— besides Morax, but that was an entirely different story.

As you approached the table, you reached for the crown and picked it up, being careful not to touch the emeralds embedded into the gold. This crown was the real deal, with authentic emeralds carved expertly to fit into the base, and a special engraving on the inside that spelled out the queen’s full title:

The god of memories, Queen Catalina Elizabeth Blair.

“It’ll sell for higher than the price we require,” you reassured Leni. “Do ya know how famous Mondstadt’s Queen is? She’s the firs’ god to ever roam the icy, Northern plains. The Thousand Winds themselves answer to her. Celestia favors her. That god king has the whole of the world an’ the heavens wrapped around her finger. Her stolen crown will land us a heap of gold— more gold than we’ll know what to do with!”

An exhausted sigh escaped Leni’s lips as she closed her eyes. She crossed her arms over her chest. “What beats me is why the crown was in King Remus’ treasure vault. Why is it in Remuria if it belongs to a god of Mondstadt?”

You let out a small scoff and gently placed the crown back onto the table. You shrugged and leaned back against the table. “Who knows? The gods are always at war. It was probably stolen by one of King Remus’ royal fleets after the Daybreak War that lasted a hundred years.”

The Daybreak War landed itself a spot in the history books in the wake of its aftermath. It was a notorious war spanning over an entire century, involving two relentless god kings: King Remus and Queen Catalina. It was said to have begun at daybreak, and ended a hundred years later at the very same time.

Historians claimed that almost half of Teyvat’s general population had been wiped out during the war, and that Celestia itself had to personally intervene before the two gods called a ceasefire.

It all began when King Remus attempted to invade Queen Catalina’s territory and disturb the peace and tranquility of the Northern icy plains of Mondstadt. He took half of her people under his rule, proceeded to treat them poorly, and took away any rights they had to their prior freedom. This act of defiance and unfairness severely angered the Queen of the North.

Talk that spread in the streets of every nation spoke of how the Queen’s wrath towards King Remus was enough to bring down the heavens, rip open the sky, and shake the very core of the earth. Her undying love towards her people and desire to regain their freedom was incredibly admirable. It was also extremely rare for a god to have that much kindness and compassion in their heart.

The Queen of the North called for reinforcements from the Thousand Winds, upon which they answered her calls. She emerged from the war as the victor. Her power and her strength was a force to be reckoned with, and the gods that roamed the lands of other nations were well informed not to pick a fight with the Queen of Mondstadt— lest they face retribution from the endless whipping winds.

Even Decarabian, the god of storms who resided in the opposite direction of the Queen’s territory, knew better than to test her patience. However, in recent years, he slowly began inching towards her land, and soon enough, he would begin to cross the border.

You awaited any news from the friends you had in Mondstadt regarding any signs of potential war. If another war were to unfold, you would be called back to your mother’s homeland to fight alongside the Queen and her knights.

The Queen of the North had your utmost trust and loyalty. If she commanded you back, you would go without hesitation.

The Night Howler, the ship you inherited from your late father, was a fugitive ship in Remuria. It was not only because you had stolen directly from King Remus’ vault, but also because you pledged loyalty to Her Majesty, his sworn enemy. However, you had no intention of returning the crown back to her.

You did not harbor any guilt, as you were already aware that she did not care for the item in the first place. You were free to do whatever you pleased with it. You could even keep all the money you received from selling it off.

A worried call from one of your crewmates drew your attention away from the conversation.

“Captain!”

You shared an uneasy look with Leni, before she rushed forward to swing open the door to the captain’s quarters. You followed her out onto the deck. The crewmate that previously called out to you handed you a spyglass. You took it without question and adjusted it as you held it up to your eye.

An involuntary groan of frustration left your lips. On the horizon, encased in a thin layer of fog, was a Remurian ship belonging to the navy. Its sky blue sails billowed in the wind as it sped across the restful waters. The intense glow of the moon passed over the shimmering golden crest of Queen Iris.

A chill ran down your spine as a breeze passed by. It served as a warning of the upcoming chase that was likely to occur.

A scowl formed on your face. Of the entire naval fleet of Remuria, the ship that had to be tailing The Night Howler was one of Queen Iris’. It seemed your luck was starting to dwindle.

Leni sent you an expectant look, to which you placed the spyglass in her hand. After a moment, a small gasp escaped her lips.

“Queen Iris. Of all people.”

A scoff left your best friend’s peach colored lips. She tossed you a glance filled with exasperation. “She wants the crown back for her King.” You couldn’t help but agree with her.

The infamous Queen Iris was the Southernmost ruler of King Remus’ territory, overlooking the Irenian Sea that connected Remuria and the ancient land of Natlan. Among King Remus’ four lords that were given a snippet of his power, Queen Iris was the most feared and wealthy.

The woman was strong-willed, strategic, and witty. She possessed the largest naval fleet of the four lords. Currently, the estimation stood at ten thousand men and women alike. She required the best of the best. Those who wished to join her ranks could not be seen as mediocre. They had to be perfect— no more and no less.

That said, the expectations and pressure she held over their heads was an inexplicable amount. Any sailor was lucky to not work under the devilish lord of the South.

And to be on opposing forces of Queen Iris was to be doomed with a fate worse than death itself. Lucky for you, you were smarter than the scrawny, brainless men she sent after you time and time again. You, on countless occasions, out-witted her fleets and sent them running with their tails between their legs.

Needless to say, you haven’t seen the same men twice. You could only assume they were disposed of after their failed attempts of dragging your ship and your crew back to their beloved Queen.

Instead of treating this like a life or death situation, you treated this like a game of cat and mouse.

Queen Iris liked to believe you were the mouse simply because your ship was smaller than her fleets, and your crew was not made up of trained soldiers. Trained soldiers or not, your crew was some of the finest swordsmen you have ever met. They outclassed Iris’ royal fleets anyday.

If Queen Iris wanted to play another round of this seemingly endless game, who were you to not entertain her? After all, you were used to being on wanted lists. She could try her scare tactics all she wanted, but you were well informed on her battle strategies by now. You had the upper hand.

Although she was given power by a god, it did not scare you in the slightest. She was not even half of what King Remus claimed to be. Neither he, nor his four lords scared you. The only god that did was the wrathful god that was Queen Catalina’s lover.

“Full speed ahead, men!” you yelled. “If it’s a game Lady Iris wants, then it’s a game the devil will get!”

The sound of laughter filled the air as the crew rushed around, preparing the ship accordingly as it lurched forward at the highest speed it could possibly go. You placed your hands on your hips as a smirk made its way onto your face.

Leni let out a sigh. “You’re enjoying this too much, Captain.” Her verdant eyes were glossed over with a tinge of annoyance for your behavior. You simply nudged her with your elbow.

“Am I? Come now, my dear Leni. The Queen is gracin’ us with her attention once more! This is more attention than any of those snotty royal navy boys will get from her in their lifetimes!” You wrapped an arm around her shoulders and pulled her into your side.

Another sigh escaped her lips. This one was filled with exhaustion. A smile tugged at her lips. “I have no doubt in your abilities to outsmart her, Cap. Lead us to victory once more.”

author’s notes: i know what you're thinking ... "ray you haven't finished your other fics yet!!!" I KNOW IM SORRY I PROMISE I'LL FINISH THEM 🙏 anyways, welcome to volume one of the regula solis epoch!! this is a fic series that takes place a few hundred years before the archon war and is very canon divergent. however, i'm going to try to stay true to the lore of remuria to make this more realistic!!

taglist — (open) ;

divider: @/cafekitsune

next | masterlist

[zscribez]

JTTW - Ch. 1

The divine root conceives, its source revealed; Mind and nature nurtured, the Great Dao is born

Finally got around to gathering my thoughts and impressions of the first chapter. Really enjoying how accessible the translation is yet still preserves the qualities of the original text. I've written down some notes of my initial impressions which I'll put under a read more.

Disclaimer: i am diasporan chinese but i haven't received formal schooling in chinese culture and history, so most of my knowledge mostly comes from my upbringing and whatever family has shared with me. I have passing familiarity with much of the concepts and history in the text but I'm not very well read on them so please do take my impressions with a grain of salt

The chapter starts with the formation of the universe which was rendered in a cycle of chaos/destruction and then creation/order through twelve epochs. In the Zi epoch, heaven was created first through the creation of the sun, moon, stars and heavenly bodies. The yin yang principle came into the Chou epoch, which was also when the Earth was formed. In the Yin epoch, both the heavens and earth copulated and all things were born, from which the three forces of Heaven, Earth and Man were established.

The beginning of the chapter lays out a Daoist conception of the world through yin yang and the formation of the heavens and earth.

Later, we’re introduced to a monkey who was born from a stone that had the seeds of heaven and earth combined. After the monkey bowed to the four quarters, beams of light shone from his eyes that disturbed the heavens.

This part keys us into the nature of the monkey as being born of both Heaven and Earth. In Chinese culture, our conception of the Heavens is it functions as a bureaucracy and often serves as a symbolic stand in for the imperial bureaucracy. While the Earth stands in for the masses and communities that the imperial bureaucracy presided over. Having already been familiar with the first half of the novels due to having watched adaptations, the lights from the monkey’s eyes disturbing the heavens foreshadows his disruption of heavenly affairs in later chapters.

As the stone-monkey eats, communes with his monkey friends and makes friends with other animals, he demonstrates a connection to the Earth and the desires that are attached to the Earth. Soon, the monkeys discover a waterfall where the stone-monkey discovers an enclave of Heaven-sent property where the monkeys could go live and be spared from the whims and influence of the Heavens.

A retreat from the wind, A shelter from the rain. You fear no frost or snow; You hear no thunderclap. Mist and smoke are brightened, Warmed by a holy light- The pines are evergreen: Rare flowers, daily new:

The stone-monkey announces that because he was able to come in and go out of the enclave without hurting himself, he should be honoured as king.

If we were to understand the Heavens as bureaucracy and the Earth as the people below, the stone-monkey being born of both implies that he’s a combination. Looking at imperial Chinese society, one can recall that someone being born of both heaven and earth could be the mandarin officials that make up the gentry in the imperial bureaucracy but are selected from the common people through the imperial examination.

The stone-monkey eventually does away with the stone in his name to become the Handsome Monkey King. He then appoints gibbons and baboons to be his ministers and officers. “Living in concord and sympathy, they did not mingle with bird or beast but enjoyed their independence in perfect happiness.” Their main activities were described as being solely focused on food and drinks.

When you view the monkey as a mandarin official, the allegory in this scene implies the corrupted nature of mandarin officials in primarily enjoying their gentry lives rather than serving for the common people below them.

After several hundred years of this existence, the monkey king one day grew sad. When asked why, he states that although they were free from Heavenly rule or free from rulers of mankind, he worries about the threat of old age and physical decay, in essence, death in the future. “If we die, shall we not have lived in vain, not being able to rank forever among the Heavenly beings?" Another monkey leapt forth to say that there are three species of living creatures that are not subjected to death, the Buddhas, the immortals and the holy sages. Upon learning this, the monkey king announces that he would leave them all tomorrow in search of immortality from these beings.

In Chinese culture, longevity and immortality are auspicious concepts. The first emperor to unite China, Qin Shi Huang, was known for constantly seeking the key to immortality. If Western alchemy’s goal was to find the Philosopher’s Stone, then the goal of Chinese alchemy was to find the key to immortality. Within the Chinese cultural preoccupation with immortality is an anxiety towards death. This theme will likely continue throughout the rest of the story as it will figure heavily in the monkey king’s journey and his motivations.

Once he sets out on his journey and mingle among humans, he notes that nobody was as preoccupied with his concerns about mortality. “He saw, however, that the people of the world were all seekers after profit and fame; there was not one who showed concern for his appointed end.” This is further expanded in a verse: When will end this quest for fortune and fame, This tyrant of early rising and retiring late? Riding on mules they long for noble steeds; By now prime ministers, they hope to be kings. For food and raiment they suffer stress and strain, Never fearing Yama's call to reckoning. Seeking wealth and power to give to sons of sons, There's not one ever willing to tum back.

It illustrates that the common people are preoccupied with material wealth or social status, concerned more so with their present reality rather than their future & mortality.

The monkey king later encounters a woodcutter, mistaking him for an immortal. Monkey king finds out that the woodcutter is neighbours with an immortal asks why he didn’t follow him in the cultivation of the Way and seek immortality. He replied that due to his obligations to uphold his filial duty, he cannot practice austerities.

The woodcutter shows that the opportunity to pursue cultivation can be marred by one’s previous obligations to their family or material interests, the ability to pursue cultivation requires sacrifice and to free oneself of attachments.

So far, I'm reading the text as political satire as this is the most common reading of the text I've encountered within any engagement I've had with chinese culture and my family. Even though i've enjoyed previous adaptations of JTTW and found them funny, I was still pleasantly surprised by the humour in the text and that it wasn't as dry as I had thought

[artsspangledpumpkin]

"She turned away, stepping aside to examine a stall of homemade chocolates. The stallholder, an elderly man, smiled at Elphaba politely. He was talking Elphaba through the different flavours, while Elphaba nodded politely. Suddenly, her vision was obscured by a purple haze. Jumping back slightly, she blinked before she registered that it was a purple rose, and Fiyero was holding it out to her.

Elphaba's cheeks grew warm, and she accepted it silently."

— Until the End of Time Ch. 11 by @vinkunwildflowerqueen FFN/AO3

Part of the Life's Epoch's series, one of my favs.

But also, I saw what you did there:

"Fiyero made it a point never to give roses to a girl—not since he'd given a single lavender rose to a girl he'd briefly dated at his first school, named Sheona. It turned out giving lavender roses symbolized love at first sight and a single rose meant "you are the one"... Since then, Fiyero's rule was never to give roses to a girl."

— Out of the Blue Ch. 2 by vinkunwildflowerqueen FFN/AO3

Name/Link: Until the End of Time [Art]

Fandom: Wicked

Inspired by: Until the End of Time by vinkunwildflowerqueen

Individual Challenge(s): Picture This; Stamper

Ship: Fiyero T./Elphaba T.

Team: Poppies

Space Address (Prompt): Ship D4 (Accidental Confession); SpB E1 (Rut/Heat); TrB A3 (Break the X)

Warnings: None

[anoceaninthesun]

Whoo, updated this on Friday, remembering to post it just now.

Ch.70: Epoch

Rating: M

Chapter Summary: Hashirama and Sakura face their own individual trials in The Under, but like all paths destined to cross, two points converge into one.

[moonspirit]

Hi Moon🌙

For ask game for fanfic writers :3

2, 7, 17,29, 30, 64 and 98 (yes, this one on purpose for make you praise yourself and be kinder to yourself 🫶)

Hello Anna T_T This took way too long, I'm so sorry.

2. talk about a notable time a narrative or character has looked you dead in the eyes and said “fuck your plan, here’s what we’re actually doing.”

I answered this one over here :3

7. tell us about the plot of the first fanfic you ever wrote

The first ever fanfic? Oh god, that's more than a decade and a half ago... but okay xD Basically Kei and Hikari (the main couple from S.A) take a trip on a cable car during a winter getaway, and as you can expect, the car stops right in the fucking middle. What happens next? A lot of sexual tension, that's what. I was like... 13 or 14 when I wrote this xD It was titled 'Love in the Ice' btw, lol.

17. what is your favorite line you’ve ever written?

Oof, this is hard #_# There's got to be many, though my head is blank now... but... okay. I guess this one from Ch.16 of VBEOW:

He bid her goodbye, once again, and that time had been the most painful of all, because now he knew, there could've been something between them, something called love, and it couldn't be, only because she was supposed to be just Annie, and he wanted that for her more than love.

29. give us a spoiler for one of your stories.

XD Wah, really? A spoiler? Uhhhhhh okay, so there will be a chapter in VBEOW titled "Once a Fighter, Always a Fighter" and personally, I'm very excited for it (though it's a long way away for now). Very vague, I know, but it's a spoiler xD

30. most inspirational quote you’ve ever read or heard that’s still important to you.

Hm... from a fic? Or just in general? Okay, I guess I'll go with Carl Sagan's dedication to his wife in his book 'Cosmos'. It goes like this: "In the vastness of space and the immensity of time, it is my joy to share a planet and an epoch with Annie."

I think about it often, because in our very brief time of conscious life on this (rare) planet, it is certainly such a wonderful thing that we live alongside other wonderful people who touch our hearts and change us forever.

64. what is your favourite title for a fic you’ve read?

Ooohh. I think it's got to be "Breathturn" by ladywongs, who wrote it for the touken fandom. I can't find her/their fics up anywhere anymore, but since I have a downloaded copy of it, I often go and re-read it. It was an angsty-smutty piece, which captured the quality of the title very well, imo.

98. what don’t you like about your writing style?

:< Oh no. Everything, sometimes. Other times, I don't like how it seems very much like violet prose... or maybe that's just me because I'm too critical of my skills and hate everything I do haha xD Anyway. Someday, I'll be proud. That's good enough.

Thank you anna T^T You're always too damned sweet :<

[faefaye]

BtT: Lux Permanet

The important thing I want to note here is about Merlin and the Fool discussing "the purpose of the advancement ritual" - Klein says during his Seq 3 ritual in canon (Ch 1137) that the purpose is to have a clear definition of yourself, and the 300 years away from history gives you an anchoring point regarding that.

Also, the descent ritual done at the end is taken from Mr. A's attempt in Chapter 477. I don't remember seeing another like that in canon so that was my only reference.

Now, moving on to things that are a lot less important :p -

Three months since Proof of Identity, and I've already bested that word count (which was at 3.6k). It's honestly insane to me since I've been writing fanfic for nearly a decade and so far my highest word count for a oneshot was around 2k.

But also Lux Permanet is a reimagining of 1400 chapters of canon so it's probably to be expected :p.

A few things in this fic, like Mr. Fool's past, are drawn from an unposted WIP of mine based on the idea "what if Zhou transmigrated in the First Epoch, but he and Klein still meet each other". I don't think it'll ever see the daylight :p, but I wanted to at least mention its existence.

That should be about it, thank you for reading!

[calekinnieplus]

Today, I've read LOTM for a total of 7 hours. Honestly, not as much as I was expecting, but then some guests came in the evening, so I had to postpone the binging.

Tomorrow, I am pretty certain the read time will be less than 7 hours, unfortunately. Well, the goal for tomorrow shall be to reach chapter 300. Currently at ch 269 heh. I find it doable.

So, today, I've read about the assassination of an ambassador, the discovery of a Fourth Epoch building with the statues... 6? 7? Orthodox deities? I can't accurately recall. And the introduction of Mr. World, Mr. Fool's alt account heh. That felt like the major stuff. There was also the confirmation that Mr. A was from the Aurora Order, the experimentation with Mr. Azik's whistle, Klein making acquaintance with Eye of Wisdom guy and his circle of Beyonders, like Mr. Apothecary, the acquisition of the All-Black Eye or whatever it's called, I forgot. I forget a lot of stuff. At least I visually remember and recognize the names...

Yeah, basically some stuff happened. Can't wait to read more, but my eyes are shutting and I won't be able to comprehend half the stuff that's happening if I read now haha :')

Until the next ramble, Vertigone signing out

[theredconversegirl]

Do you have any fic recs about Sakura telling Sasuke she’s pregnant/Sarada’s birth? Or blank period pregnant!Sakura traveling with Sasuke. Thank you ❤️

Hi nonny,

Thanks for stopping by! 💕

I have a couple of existing 🍅🌸 lists for half of your ask:

Sarada’s Birth

Travelling with Baby Sarada / Pregnancy

And here's a few more recs regarding your first inquiry:

Sakura finds out/tells she's pregnant 🍅🌸

At Last By: deeppoeticgirl

The day Sakura found out she was pregnant was quite a memorable one. [Rated E, complete]

🍅🌸🍅🌸🍅🌸

Budding By: Doorhandletable 

Sakura tries to find the perfect way to tell Sasuke that she's pregnant. [Rated K+, complete]

🍅🌸🍅🌸🍅🌸

Fat? [Ch 4 of Epoch] By: Beeeee 

Sakura is about to tell Sasuke she's pregnant and he calls her fat before she gets the words out. [Rated T, complete]

🍅🌸🍅🌸🍅🌸

Good News [Ch 8 of Okaeri] By: BlueKitsunebi 

"I came to feel this way, because you're Sakura." Lifting his right arm, he brushed his fingers along the right side of her sternum, exactly where her heart was, and felt her pulse echo through his fingertips. Post 699 Anthology series. [Rated M, complete]

🍅🌸🍅🌸🍅🌸

Our First Fight [Ch 1 of Firsts] By: T a C o C a T

No summary. [Rated M, complete]

🍅🌸🍅🌸🍅🌸

Proof By: xxredemption-love-and-liesxx 

"I do not believe you will listen to me if I told you. Instead… showing you is a better option…" / [set after gaiden7/700 7] [Rated T, complete]

* Sasuke shows Sarada the moment Sakura told him she was pregnant and Sarada’s birth.

🍅🌸🍅🌸🍅🌸

Sakura tells Sasuke she’s pregnant [Ch 4 of Spectrum] By: GhostofYou 

Prompt: Sakura tells Sasuke she’s pregnant through his favorite food. [Rated T, complete]

🍅🌸🍅🌸🍅🌸

Speechless Talk [Ch 1 of Of Uchihas And Harunos] By: TheOrichalconThief 

Post-Canon. One-shot collection. Story number one: When Sakura presents Sasuke with the unforeseen news of her pregnancy, he does not know what to think. All he can do is panic. The Uchiha way. [Rated T, complete]

🍅🌸🍅🌸🍅🌸

the succulent By: @blanket-fictions

Sakura has a gift for Sasuke.

🍅🌸🍅🌸🍅🌸

what i never thought i’d have [Chapter 39 of I'd Be Yours, If You'd Be Mine] By: DeepPoeticGirl

He never thought he'd be so happy hearing the news of Sakura's lateness. [Rated K+, complete]

——————————————————————————

I hope you enjoy these lists.😊 Have a great week! 🤍

~Happy Reading and Stay Safe,

xoxo

[hexpea]

Prince Suguru Geto is crowned king after the fateful death of his father. There was only one problem: he was still single. With ornery nobility, the pressure to find a wife to carry on the family legacy was on and the new, apathetic king is pressured into his duties.

What he didn't expect was meeting you: a passionate spitfire who had the ability to change everything for him.

*doesn't follow the anime/manga timeline, no spoilers* *y/n is fem*

Ch. 1 - The Crown's Demise

Ch. 2 - The King's Caterer

Ch. 3 - First Impressions

Ch. 4 - Unlikely Proposal

Ch. 5 - A Commoner's Transition

Ch. 6 - First Days

Ch. 7 - Soft Evening, New Home

Ch. 8 - Home's Secrets

Ch. 9 - Reconciliation

Ch. 10 - Bachelorette

Ch. 10.5 - Bachelorette Omake

Ch. 11 - Preparations

Ch. 12 - The Big Day

Ch. 13 - Happily Ever After

Ch. 14 - Spouses

Ch. 14.5 - Spouses Omake

Ch. 15 - Magic

Ch. 16 - A Rebellious Royal

Ch. 17 - King of Curses

Ch. 18 - Sanguine Lovers

Ch. 18.5 - Sanguine Lovers Omake

Ch. 19 - What Has to Be Done

Ch. 20 - The Most Twisted Curse

Ch. 21 - The Final Epoch

Ch. 22 - Finding the Magic

Ch. 23 - Preparations

Ch. 24 - Cornflower Blue

[newsandletterscommittee]

Marxism considers itself the conscious expression of the unconscious historical process. But the “unconscious” process, in the historico-philosophical sense of the term not in the psychological coincides with its conscious expression only at its highest point, when the masses, by sheer elemental pressure, break through the social routine and give victorious expression to the deepest needs of historical development. And at such moments the highest theoretical consciousness of the epoch merges with the immediate action of those oppressed masses who are farthest away from theory. The creative union of the conscious with the unconscious is what one usually calls “inspiration.” Revolution is the inspired frenzy of history.

Every real writer knows creative moments, when something stronger than himself is guiding his hand; every real orator experiences moments when some one stronger than the self of his every-day existence speaks through him. This is “inspiration.” It derives from the highest creative effort of all one’s forces. The unconscious rises from its deep well and bends the conscious mind to its will, merging it with itself in some greater synthesis.

The utmost spiritual vigor likewise infuses at times all personal activity connected with the movement of the masses. This was true for the leaders in the October days. The hidden strength of the organism, its most deeply rooted instincts, its power of scent inherited from animal forebears all these rose and broke through the psychic routine to join forces with the higher historico-philosophical abstractions in the service of the revolution. Both these processes, affecting the individual and the mass, were based on the union of the conscious with the unconscious: the union of instinct the mainspring of the will with the higher theories of thought.

- Leon Trotsky, My Life, Ch. 29 (1930)

[late-to-the-fandom]

Rumours report Prince Renathal and his former Maw Walker can currently be found in the Dragon Isles. How did they get there and what are they up to? Work in Progress! These are all my Post-Shadowlands stories of Renathal and the (former) Maw Walker starting with the introduction of her name (in A Maw Walker by Any Other Name), the original plotline story explaining how they left the Shadowlands for Azeroth (A Wend in the Shadows) and their various adventures in the Dragon Isles (And there was only one dragon!) Runs a spectrum of ratings from G to E. Read the series on Ao3 here.

A Maw Walker By Any Other Name (Prologue)

What is the Dark Prince to call his lover now her career in Maw walking has come to an end? In which I finally get around to revealing the Maw Walker's name, so I don't have to call her that throughout the sequel. Takes place before A Wend in the Shadows proper. Rated T for implied sexual scenarios | 1,288 words

A Wend in the Shadows

Something’s afoot in Revendreth, and the Dark Prince Renathal is determined to discover what. Is it the rumoured rebellion, the Master of the realm himself, or his mysterious mortal guest?  Click here to read the series on Ao3.

Chapter One: The Master Awaits "In spite of everything Renathal's primary senses were telling him, an ominous warning still lurked underneath. There was something indefinably wrong about how he had woken up today."

Chapter Two: The Lay of the Land "Centuries - epochs, even - of endless, unvaried routine, and suddenly the Dark Prince of Revendreth found himself up to his ragged ears in mysteries."

Chapter Three: The Endmire "But it was not what loomed above them that made Renathal’s cold skin crawl. It was what lurked below them. The unnatural chill that crept through his veins even before his booted feet touched the ground."

Chapter Four: Anima Awakening "An ache had awoken within Renathal that had nothing to do with the Endmire, an urge he had fought to keep quelled for many centuries with creditable success; and which, with three scattered encounters and hardly an effort on her part, Elisewin, the Master’s singularly sinful mortal, had brought roaring back to life."

Chapter Five: The Proper Punishment "It felt more, the Dark Prince reflected as he led the mortal into Darkwall Tower, like hosting a foreign dignitary than punishing a penitent soul."

Chapter Six: Home Improvement "Renathal was flirting with disaster. Quite literally. And as long as flirting was where he kept it, he and Elisewin would both be safe."

Chapter Seven: Formal Refreshments "Discipline bid him go no further. Renathal swept it ruthlessly aside. There was no reason not to take what he wanted now. Elisewin would soon be gone. The least they both deserved was to enjoy themselves before the end."

Chapter Eight: Safe in the Shadows "Renathal would have stormed up to the castle then and there and demanded answers of Denathrius, refused to leave until he had them, were it not for the… extenuating circumstances…"

Chapter Nine: Into the Light "Elisewin was singular, but she did not - could not - understand. That Renathal had waited steadfastly for eternity and finally had everything he wanted."

Chapter 10: Mix, Mingle, and Meddle "Renathal was determined not to let anyone or anything - even the Sire - ruin the happiness he had only begun to savour."

Chapter 11: An Invitation to Treachery "In a different, not-so-distant time in his history, Renathal might have enjoyed, perhaps even instigated, such a rebellion; the challenge of outright revolt against the creator of the realm did hold a certain contumacious appeal."

Chapter 12: Rebels on the Road “ 'Relies on a lot of risky assumptions, this plan.' 'Why, my dear,” said Renathal with lavish humour. “Since when is the Dark Prince of Revendreth’s consort afraid of a little risk?' "

Small Bites - Drabbles from Wend in the Shadows

Time - DWC July 29 Drabble - Shameless flirting between Renathal and Elisewin. Takes place between chapters 5 and 6. Chandelier, Crimson, Chaos - Writing Prompt. Takes place between chapters 5 and 6. Acquired Taste - EXPLICIT SMUT. Takes place in the middle of chapter 8. Nightmare - Arguments, angst, and POV shift practice. Another Interruption - EXPLICIT SMUT. Takes place between chapters 9 and 10. Aftermath - Writing warmup taking place after chapter 7.

And there was only one dragon! - Renathal & the (former) Maw Walker's Tales from the Dragon Isles

Orgrimmar - In which the Prince of Revendreth arrives in Azeroth. Ruby Lifeshrine - In which Elisewin makes a case for completing quests in geographic rather than campaign order. The Obsidian Throne - In which Renathal and Elisewin determine their loyalties. The Ohn'Ahran Plains - In which a certain centaur couple has a wedding, illuminating new possibilities for Renathal and his former Maw Walker. The Waking Shores - In which Elisewin has the more difficult time acclimating to certain customs in the Dragon Isles. Algeth'ar Academy - In which Renathal and Elisewin interact with a certain familiar sounding NPC. The Temporal Conflux - In which Renathal and Elisewin discover a mutual temptation. Iskaara - In which Renathal indulges. Vakthros - In which Elisewin is too slow, and Renathal finally has a good reason to destroy Raszageth. Valdraaken - In which Renathal and Elisewin enjoy a well-deserved break. Orgimmar, Again - In which our heroes return to Azeroth and await their next adventure.

[asktheplethaura]

If Only , If Only - Unicorn Wars Fanfiction

(((Chapter Twelve)))

((Turn around...... turn your ass back around...)) ((Musical notes here))

~~

Fun-Fact: This fic is actually inspired in concept, by a song called 'Epoch' the Remix by The Living Tombstone

www.youtube.com/watch?v=K3m3_7RoGZk

~~

(Content Warning: Sui**dal Actions and Thoughts)

((To my two lovely commenting parties on the last chapter... this is the worst christmas present ever.))

All of the other bears were confused at first- however, not even two full minutes after Azulin had consumed the slug- he became erratic and aggressive. The very first thing he did was start to babble about this, that and the other. These things ranging from the most moderate thoughts and some of the deepest inner-tainted thoughts of his shaken psyche.

Azulin held his hand over the hilt of his knife- his arm jolting closer and further away from himself several times as his wild, barely-concentrated eyes narrowed themselves at all of them.

These thoughts were becoming more and more jumbled, and the movement of the blue bear started to falter from being unfocused as he was already. He brandished his knife at them again and tilted it in several directions- finally spitting out a solid trail of thought.

"Co-come on!! I was so- so aw-ful earlier!! Come at me! Take me-e down!" the voice was lulled despite it being a shouted confrontation. "I know-w you wan-na!" it was like he was hiccuping, nearly building up into a tremendous urge to cry or scream. These words became fast and almost blended together when he started to mumble to himself- looking around at shapes and shadows that weren't there. "Take me down al-ready dammit!!"

Sargento was unsure of how to approach the blue bear at this point. However, the wheels in his head were turning at a mile a minute- trying to calculate an easy way to get to the weapon of his soldier- lest Azulin stab someone else in his delirious ramblings.

He could see why the younger bear was adamant about them not eating the slug though. The severe psycho-hallucinatory effects were something of such a dangerous caliber, de-realization and sensory dis-communication were causing vivid neurological trickery.

"Azulin, please! Come on! Settle down and snap out of it!" Gordi was the first to run at his brother- not really a bright idea considering just how sensitive the younger twin was to movement right now- on top of his aggressive hallucination reaction. "Come on, drop it, drop the knife..!"

Azulin started to hiccup- trembling as he shook his head. "You slugs don't... ha-ave the right to use the voice of my br-brother-er this way. You si-ick freak-s-s." It was like Azulin was finding it hard to breathe. He grasped at his throat, nearly stabbing his own face with the knife as he couldn't possibly thing to put the weapon down when tending to himself. "You-ou are all such-ch awful.. awful crea-atures." he continued to hiccup, soon delving into a fit of sobbing.

Gordi stopped, hoping his lack of movement would soothe his younger sibling.

Coco and the other bears snapped out of their shock. He shook his head and looked between the rest of the bears before gesturing for them all to make a silent circle around Azulin. Maybe, hitting him with sensory confusion in all directions would keep him from attacking any one other of them without any backup immediately nearby.

Azulin started to sob in such a gut-wrenching, depressing way it caused all of them to freeze.

A screaming sob rose from his throat, and the blue bear fell to his knees, scratching at his face on the right side. His claws digging into his fur and flesh with no resistance at all as he started to yell several different words of unknown meaning. He cursed himself, and 'the black abyss' and the generals in charge of this cesspool of pain and hatred they called a war.

""Augh! Dammit! Fucking damn it all! Send me back to the pits of he-ell where I bel-long!! Send Me-e back-k!! Take my *hic* stupid, useless, *hic* motherfucking stup-pid d-amn-mn filth-yy-" Azulin started to make no sense at all- and he hoisted up his knife before pointing it at his own gut his hands stumbled and fumbled- nearly dropping the objects several times as his body lurched forward getting closer and closer to the blade.

During all the sobbing, the blue bear seemed to have an epiphany, his unsteady head looking over to the knife in his hands before a wavering, terrified smile crossed his face.  His lips quivered as he clumsily brought his other hand to the blade of the knife- a laughter escaping from within him.

"I- I can... I am... I... i'm..." he couldn't form thoughts anymore- he was getting cold and all he could hear was shouting as his vision clouded over all of the rainbow dystopian overlay that clouded him. He couldn't help but laugh harder. His hands felt wet and sticky.

"Haha.. ahhaha-ha I... I... I pissed mys-self didn't I" Azulin mused to the seemingly open air as a chorus of gasps came from the approaching bears around him. At this point, all plans were out the window. What they needed was to just stop him without getting stabbed too badly.

"Ah-! Azulin!! Hold on, please!! We're here- put the knife down. Give it to me..!" Gordi was too mortified to try and talk down his brother, too frightened by the sight of blood pooling under his brothers body as the blue sibling continued to laugh himself into the raw edges of the knives blade that he was somehow now lying on top of.

The mournfully delightful delirium that he was enduring knowing no bounds.

Gordi and the polar bear twins started to cry- both from fear and alarm. The pink bear quickly pulling Azulin to his back and securing down his arms as the blue hear started to flail- weakly at that. The blood loss becoming too great for him to laugh through.

"Heh.. ahaha... I... i'm such a scumbag and a loser... and... such.. a stupid.. dumb... mis-stake. I.. I finally... I finally did something... right..."

It was at this point that Azulin started to black out, his arms stopping their uncontrolled movements. and erratic gestures.

"We need medical assistance, don't just sit there!! Come on!!" Sargento started to bark orders, his eyes still panicked from what he had just witnessed. The bigger bear sat next to Gordi and kept the knife in Azulin's abdomen to prevent the faster flow of blood-loss.

The other bears were too stunned to speak- even Padre. He yelled the orders again- sending all of the other bears scrambling to get what they needed to at least heal and patch up what looked like a critical wound.

Sargento looked down to the blue bear- the worry eminent in his eyes. He kept his paw near the area were the knife was- Gordi the only one still next to him.

"When did these thoughts first start showing...?"

Gordi wiped his face as he struggled to swallow his own building emotions.

"Iv'e never... seen or heard him like this before..."

Sargento used his other pawn to pat Gordi on the Shoulder. "After this, we are finding that lost troupe and heading back to camp. We all were not prepared for this mission and he kept us from what could have been an even bigger disaster... it that did THIS to him... who the hell knows what would have happened if all of us ate those things..."

Gordi shakily nodded.

"Si..."

((To Be Continued))

[danihow]

totally inspired by @sunnytaes

i'm opening this voting to see which out of my wips should i finish first cuz mf been lazy lately so ill get to them in order of voting

[real-time-twilight]

Eclipse in Real Time

June 12, 2006 (Monday)

Moon Phase: Waning Gibbous 🌖

🌄 Sunrise: 5:15 AM

🌅 Sunset : 9:18 PM

Eclipse, Ch. 16 ("Epoch"), Ch. 17 ("Alliance")

4:25 PM (Approx.) - Bella stresses over having nothing to wear for graduation; Alice arrives with a new outfit for Bella just for the occasion

4:27 PM (Approx.) - Bella finally makes the connection between her intruder and the newborn army in Seattle

4:30 PM (Approx.) - Charlie calls for Bella to hurry up; Alice leaves so that the fast-approaching Edward won't discover Bella's revelation in her, Alice's, thoughts and go nuts

4:35 PM (Approx.) - Edward arrives at the Swan House; Edward rides with Charlie and Bella to graduation, in the backseat of the cruiser (to Charlie's amusement)

4:50 PM (Approx.) - Bella and Edward get in line for the graduation ceremony

5:00 PM (Approx.) - the graduation ceremony for Forks High School, Class of 2006 begins with a speech by Erik Yorkie, valedictorian

6:45 PM (Approx.) - The ceremony ends; Edward rejoins Bella as she looks for Alice; Edward tells her that Alice had been thinking of nothing but translating The Battle Hymn of the Republic into Arabic and Korean sign language and accuses Bella of being in on whatever Alice is trying to keep from him; Bella explains her epiphany to Edward

6:50 PM (Approx.) - Charlie insists on taking Bella out to celebrate

7:00 PM (Approx.) - Charlie and Bella to go dinner at the Lodge

8:00 PM (Approx.) - Bella waits by the car while Charlie socializes; Edward sneaks out of the shadows to talk to Bella and promises to follow the cruiser to his house

8:05 PM (Approx.) - Charlie and Bella head for the Cullens' house; Charlie expresses regret that he didn't teach Bella how to correctly throw a punch

8:15 PM (Approx.) - Charlie drops Bella off; she is greeted by Edward on the porch; Alice consults Edward on the music selection for the party

8:20 PM (Approx.) - Edward discusses Bella's conclusion regarding the connection between the newborns and her intruder with Carlisle and Jasper

8:50 PM (Approx.) - Mike, Jessica et al arrive for the party

9:00-11:30 PM (Approx.) - Party

11:30 PM (Approx.) - Edward abruptly leaves Bella's side to talk to Alice; Bella follows, realizing that Alice had just had an alarming vision; Jacob arrives with Quil and Embry; Jake apologies for kissing Bella and gives her a hand carved wolf charm on a bracelet as a graduation gift

11:35 PM (Approx.) - Alice rejoins Bella; Jake insists on being filled in; Alice agrees and declares that the newborn army is preparing to make their move; Jacob proposes an alliance between the Cullens and the Pack--they arrange to meet at 3 AM to iron out the details; Bella objects to this plan.

[blrtools]

What are the benefits of choosing the Right NAS Data Recovery Tool for Your Needs?

In the epoch of digitization, where data functions as the lifeblood of our professional and personal spheres, the paramount importance of a robust NAS (Network Attached Storage) Data Recovery Tool cannot be overstated. The experience of grappling with data loss can be likened to a distressing ordeal, and the linchpin for a triumphant recovery lies in the astute selection of the apt tool for the task at hand. For the adept individuals steering through the intricacies of data governance, the decision to embrace a dependable NAS Data Recovery Tool emerges as a pivotal one. Within this comprehensive discourse, we shall delve into the myriad advantages of electing the precise tool, placing a specific spotlight on the offerings from Blrtools.

Efficiency in Data Retrieval

Foremost among the merits of opting for the precise Data Recovery Tool is the expeditiousness it introduces to the data retrieval process. Temporal urgency surfaces prominently when confronted with data loss, and Blrtools pledges a swift and efficacious recovery, mitigating downtime and facilitating users in promptly reclaiming access to their pivotal files.

Compatibility with Diverse NAS Systems

The digital expanse is characterized by its diversity, featuring an array of NAS systems tailored to distinct exigencies. The judicious Tool ought to proffer compatibility across a spectrum of NAS configurations, presenting a universal solution attuned to the diverse requisites of users. Blrtools distinguishes itself in this domain, guaranteeing adaptability to the heterogeneous NAS setups prevalent in the market.

Advanced Scanning Algorithms

Data loss can ensue from an array of causative factors, spanning accidental deletions, formatting aberrations, and system tumults. It employs sophisticated scanning algorithms, undertaking a meticulous exploration for misplaced files. Blrtools' Data Recovery tool resides at the forefront of technological prowess, exhaustively scouring the landscape in the pursuit of data recuperation.

User-Friendly Interface for Seamless Operation

Technological solutions should epitomize simplification rather than convolution. Blrtools grasps this tenet acutely, with a user-friendly interface. This guarantees that even individuals bereft of extensive tech acumen can navigate the recovery process with consummate ease, rendering it accessible to a broader demographic.

Data Security and Integrity

Within the digital domain, security assumes paramount significance. Beyond the mere resuscitation of files, the judicious software should accord precedence to the security and integrity of the restored data. Blrtools approaches this with gravity, warranting not only accessibility to recovered files but also impervious security against potential threats.

Cost-Effective Data Recovery

The endeavor of data recovery should not exact an exorbitant toll. The judicious choice of a tool signifies an election for a cost-effective solution tailored to individual needs. Blrtools' Recovery software proffers a straightforward and budget-friendly recovery process, obviating concerns about concealed fees or superfluous expenditures.

Regular Updates for Continuous Improvement

Technology evolves at a precipitous pace, and so should the recovery tool. Blrtools espouses an unwavering commitment to furnishing regular updates to ensuring its perpetual alignment with the vanguard of advancements in data recovery. Users can repose confidence in being equipped with the latest features and capabilities.

Customer Support for Peace of Mind

The culling of the right Tool transcends the ambit of software per se; it extends to the caliber of customer support rendered. Blrtools is unwavering in its dedication to furnishing top-tier customer support, extending assistance and guidance throughout the trajectory of data recovery. This devotion to customer contentment engenders peace of mind for users grappling with challenges arising from data loss.

Customizable Recovery Options

Acknowledging the idiosyncrasy inherent in each data loss scenario, this tool should extend an array of customizable recovery options. Blrtools empowers users with the latitude to tailor the recovery process in consonance with their specific requisites, engendering a personalized approach to data recuperation.

Transparent Documentation for Informed Decisions

In the realm of data recovery, knowledge wields substantial influence. Blrtools ardently believes in endowing users with transparent documentation, ensuring individuals possess comprehensive information requisite for judicious decision-making. From elucidating features to delineating potential constraints, Blrtools' ensures perspicuity at every juncture.

Conclusion

The act of selecting the precise is not merely a decision; it assumes the character of a strategic maneuver in fortifying one's digital assets. Blrtools, with its emphasis on efficiency, compatibility, advanced algorithms, user-friendliness, security, cost-effectiveness, regular updates, customer support, customization, and transparency, emerges as a stalwart ally in the domain of data recovery. Embrace the potency inherent in the apt and secure the tenacity of your data in the face of unforeseen tribulations. Blrtools isn't merely a tool; it constitutes a compatriot in the expedition of digital recovery.

[unmeisenshi]

BOOK I: ADVENTURE OF A LIFETIME TABLE OF CONTENTS, PART II (6 Stories / 22 Chapters / 08/14/2021 - 02/22/2022)

XVI: THE HERO'S RETURN (08/14/2021) 79 - Ch.1

XVII: DO YOU DREAM OF ARMAGEDDON? (10/05/2021 - 10/08/2021) 80 - Prologue 81 - Ch.1: The Parade of Ashes 82 - Ch.2: White Blank Page Event Post (includes reblogs of those who participated) 83 - Ch.3: The Seventh Circle 84 - Epilogue

XVIII: GUNS FOR HANDS (10/16/2021 - 10/17/2021) 85 - Ch.1 86 - Ch.2 87 - Ch.3

XIX: THE REASON (12/27/2021 - 12/30/2021) 88 - Ch.1 89 - Ch.2 90 - Ch.3

XX: KEEP YOUR EYES PEELED (01/30/2022) 91 - Ch.1 92 - Ch.2

XXI: FINIS CORONAT OPUS (02/16/2022 - 02/22/2022) 93 - Ch.1: A Black Minute 94 - Ch.2: Storm in a Teacup 95 - Ch.3: Epoch 96 - Ch.4: Hereafter 97 - Ch.5: Mortal After All 98 - Ch.6: Spark 99 - Ch.7: The End 100 - Ch.8: Heaven (EXTRA)