#discovering the joys of fatherhood

[tosahobi-if]

Since you're a TGCF stan I have to ask: Who's your favorite character?

the green one <3

[incorrectbatfamandfriends]

Headcanon that since Jason can’t go out with his family publicly, what he does instead is show up in random disguises.

Bruce is chatting up some socialites at a gala, talking about the joys of fatherhood and how rewarding it is. Meanwhile he made eye contact with Jason disguised as a waiter twenty minutes ago, and is currently trying to stop his eye from twitching.

Dick is speaking to a third grade class as a part of the Bludhaven Police department outreach program, except when he walks in Jason is sitting behind the teachers desk, playing the role of substitute.

Babs can’t help but stare when Jason hands her a coffee from behind the counter of her favorite coffee shop. (His name tag reads Peter, and for a second she thinks she’s actually lost it).

Tim walks into Wayne Towers one day and on his way in, he waves to his secretary- lo and behold Marjorie has been replaced by Jason. It takes him three hours to notice.

Cass walks into ballet class to discover her teacher had to take a sick day- his replacement is Jason in a beret who talks in a terrible French accent the entire class, only to drop it at the very end to talk in a thick New Jersey accent. Her entire class talks about it for weeks.

Stephanie hails a cab on her way home one night, only to find Jason driving. She’s not sure how he pulled it off or how he got a cab, but her mind is effectively blown.

Duke is on a school trip to the natural history museum, and when the tour guide introduces himself, Duke can’t help but role his eyes. Jason gives a surprisingly good tour, even throwing in some tidbits about a robbery that went down just last week that the Signal stopped.

Damian’s encounter happens when he’s with Jon in metropolis. He’s watching Jon play baseball, and when Jon steps up to bat, he can’t help but notice a the umpire looks a little familiar.

[mavrintarou]

[Daddies in December] Haitani Ran

Out of all the Ran stories I've read, he is nothing like what I picture. So fair warning, my vision of Ran might be vulnerable, a little dirty, but hot as hell. This is super long, I spent all day yesterday and most of today on this.

Warning: angst, fluff & smut.

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Haitani Ran knew he was a man of many things but being a father was not one of them.

His lifestyle did not have room for fatherhood.

No matter how many ways he looked at it, it would never work out.

It was in the best interest of him and Y/n to go their way regardless of Y/n’s protest of having hoped to make it work.

It will just not work.

She was never meant to mean something to him, let alone a child they both created by accident.

He could not deny the tiny joy he felt burning when he discovered her pregnancy but had to put out the flame immediately.

After ignoring calls and visits, Ran was left with the last resort.

It was in the heat of the moment when Y/n appeared at his club unexpectedly. Ran could see the shock in her eyes from across the room and he took the opportunity to whisper something into the woman beside him. She excitedly turned to him and he reached for her face, pressing his mouth to hers in a heated kiss.

It disgusted him to the core and the longest three seconds of his life. He pulled away and turned his heels, pulling the woman by her hand, and disappeared into the VIP hallway.

That was Y/n’s last straw.

Her calls and visits ceased.

No one and nothing would prepare him for a broken heart.

He was Haitani Ran, he had been shot at, stabbed, and beaten to almost death.

But the pain of Y/n erasing herself out of his life hurt more than all those things combined.

All he had left now was the memories they had in the past.

.

He felt no pain as his knuckles were busted and bloody from repeatedly plugging into the lifeless body he held by the collar.

He was just about to throw another blow when the man was saved by the ringing of the phone.

Releasing the man, Ran picked up his phone. “What?” he barked.

“She’s in labor.”

.

His thumb swiped over the image on his screen of the chubby sleeping infant.

A girl.

He was a father to a baby girl.

It took everything in him not to rush to the hospital she was at and burst into the room to pull them both into his arms.

Even though neither of them had spoken in months, Ran ensured she was taken care of from afar. It pissed him off that the money he sent her went untouched and knew Y/n purposedly refuses to use it to irk him.

The one thing she could not prevent him from doing was the man he hired to protect her and reporting back to him with her every move.

She had an ultrasound appointment today at 2:30. Results show that the gender of the baby is a girl.

At approximately 12:45 AM, she left for the nearest open convenience store and purchased a variety of snacks and junk food.

She had a breakdown watching Sailor Moon.

Ran flipped through the many photos he received from K. He didn’t know how the man was able to take some photos up close and as if he was there in person but he didn’t question the man’s skill. Ran paid him well and he expected nothing but the best.

He was still waiting to hear back from K about what Y/n had named his daughter.

His daughter.

Chuckling like a maniac, he reprimanded himself. What right did he have to claim her as his daughter when he abandoned them?

Ran quickly sat up and ignored the annoying voice in his head when he saw the three dots appear by K’s name.

K: she named your daughter Fuyumi. She has her mother’s last name.

Ran gave his message a thumbs up, acknowledging his message.

Why had he expected that Y/n would give their child his last name?

Reaching for his cigarettes, he was about to light one when he froze, remembering he quit because… he had not wanted to give his child and Y/n second-hand smoke.

Even if he was nowhere near them.

Grabbing the pack of cigarettes and lighter, he tossed it into the garbage.

Leaning back against his couch, he is once again, drowning in his own doing.

Mikey and Rindou have scolded him for making such a pathetic decision to end their relationship. He would never admit that hearing Mikey saying that he would never give up his woman regardless of his lifestyle.

But the damage was already done.

His phone dinged with another message.

Reaching over, he frowned when the notification was from K again, this time of an image.

He tapped on the image, waiting for it to load.

Ran sat up quickly, zooming in on the picture. His eyes scanned the document repeatedly.

For the first time, his heart warmed.

On the official documents of his daughter’s birth certificate, her middle name is listed as Haitani.

He didn’t realize he was smiling like a fool as he pressed down on the image with his thumb and hearted the photo.

.

His daughter was a splitting image of her mother and Ran thanked the Gods for it. The two things she inherited from him are his distinctive violet-hue eyes and blond hair. In some photos K sent her eyes sometimes changed, showing that she also inherited her mother’s blue eyes, sometimes a mixture of blue-violet.

Tapping the screen, he saved all these photos, adding them to the designated folder he created for his daughter.

His phone dinged and it was a message from Mikey, an image.

Ran’s eyes widened as he stood up abruptly, it was a photo of Mikey smiling broadly with his sixth-month-old daughter in his arms.

Mikey: She’s freaken cute, can I keep her?

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Y/n didn’t fear Mikey as much as she should, considering he was a notorious gang leader many feared and the boss of your daughter’s father. She only met Mikey a few times and he treated her kindly.

Ran once said to her it was probably because she was the same age as his baby sister who passed away years ago.

She was surprised to see Mikey approach them at the park. Sensing fear from Mikey and his bodyguards, the other moms quickly gathered their children and took off.

Y/n pulled her daughter out of the baby swing and hugged her close. “Mikey.” She acknowledged, nodding her head at him.

He nodded in return, his eyes shifting to the baby in her arms. “Is she Ran’s?”

Y/n knew he knew the answer already, even if she did lie which she had no reason to, the color of her eyes and hair was a giveaway that she had Ran’s DNA running through her blood.

“Yes,” she answered quietly.

Mikey took a step closer and held out his arms, “is she picky? Can I hold her?”

“If you like, she is… a bit drooly.” Fuyumi stared at Mikey before he reached for her. She continued to stare at him, seeing a new face. “Her name is Fuyumi.” She wasn’t sure he heard her since he was having a staring contest with the baby.

“God!” Mikey snuggled her, “you’re so freaken cute. Thank goodness you look nothing like your dad.” He reached for his phone and looked at Y/n for approval, “can I send Ran a photo? So he knows what he’s missing out on?”

Y/n let out a hesitant laugh, “I’m sure Ran knows... he has someone following and protecting us and he sends Ran updates daily.”

“You know about K?” Mikey gasped, he looked at Fuyumi. “Do you know Uncle K?” He snaps a selfie with her. “Your dad is going to be so jealous that I got a photo with you before him.”

Y/n had a second change of heart but knew that Mikey had already sent the photo. She didn’t know how Ran would react.

Instantly, Mikey chuckled and looked at the baby in his arms, “that sounds awfully like your dad’s motorcycle…”

That’s when Y/n heard it, her head turning towards the sound of the roaring muffler. Sure enough, Ran’s motorcycle pulls up. Of course, he would know where Mikey is at all times in case he needed to get to Mikey at any time.

Y/n’s heart fluttered the moment he took off his helmet and their eyes connected even at a distance.

Ran stopped a few feet away from Mikey, eyes on his daughter. He swallowed the lump in his throat, unable to speak.

“Are you going to say hi to your daughter at all?” Mikey questioned, “I’ll take her if you don’t want her…” he smiled at Fuyumi, “I can be your da –“

“Mikey.” Ran snarl.

Mikey ignored his tone, continuing to talk to the baby. “As I was saying, I can be your daddy. I have blond hair – “

“We should get going,” Y/n intervenes, stepping forward to reach for her child. “It is almost time for her nap.” Y/n hugs her daughter close. She avoided looking at Ran as she muttered a goodbye, turning her heels towards the stroller.

.

She knew Ran was following them.

When she finally reached her apartment she whipped around to face him. Ran had his hands stuffed in his dress pants, looking handsome as ever in his black attire with his sleeves rolled up to his elbow. She cleared her throat and snapped, “you can go now.”

Instead of walking away, he walked towards her until he was in front of them. His eyes drop down to the sleeping baby in the stroller. “Can we talk?”

“No.” Y/n answered immediately. “I have nothing to say to you.”

“That’s fine, I have something to say to you though.”

She narrowed her eyes at him, “you had plenty of opportunities in the past to say something. It’s too late, excuse us.”

Ran was faster and blocked her from entering her apartment building. “We can do this the nice way, Y/n, or I can take you kicking and screaming, you pick.”

She flinched at his threat. Though he has never done anything to make her fear him that didn’t mean she didn’t harbor any fear for this man at all. She knew of some of the things he’s done and is responsible for, knew what he could do to anyone with the snap of his fingers.

.

Ran has only been in her apartment a handful of times. Most of the time, she was at his place.

Y/n was normally a clean and tidy person but her place was cluttered with toys and baby items.

He watched her carefully lift the baby out of the stroller, cooing gently and rocking her back to sleep but being disturbed, the baby began to fuss.

“It’s okay,” Y/n repeated quietly but the baby’s cry only increased. She looked at Ran before excusing herself, “let me go nurse her, I’ll be back.”

Ran nodded dumbfounded. His cheeks flushed as he imagined Y/n nursing their daughter, suckling from her tits just as he had once done.

Y/n returned with their daughter wide awake. Fuyumi stared intensely at Ran as he stood up from the couch and approached them. Being 6’2, he towered over the both of them put together. “She’s beautiful… like you.”

Ran was mesmerized staring into the same colored eyes as his own, his flesh, his DNA… his daughter.

Y/n cleared her throat, “talk.”

He had rehearsed what he would say to her the day he got the opportunity, and this was his one chance to explain himself with an ounce of hope that he could turn the tables. “I’m sorry,” he said genuinely. “I am sorry for my past actions, how it hurt not only you but our daughter as well.” He inhaled softly, “my actions hurt me too. But I can promise you, there has not been anyone. I had only kissed that woman that night to force you to end your connection with me and that was the stupidest decision I’ve ever made.”

“Yeah it was,” Y/n snapped, “I don’t need your apology now, neither does my daughter too.”

Her anger was expected, just as long as she didn’t hate him.

“I know you don’t need it, but I want to give it anyway. If you want to throw it away, that’s your decision.” He had to play his next card right. “Can –  I explain myself?”

She has never seen Ran vulnerable like this and she almost believes it’s genuine. “Fine, have a seat then,” she pointed to the spot he was sitting moments ago.

He listened obediently, watching her take a seat on the floor with their daughter. He wanted to sit near them but did not want to frustrate her. “It has always been you. As you know my job… my lifestyle isn’t exactly best fitted to become a father and I thought for the sake and safety of the both of you, it was the best decision to go our ways.” He placed both his palms on the coffee table. “That was another stupid decision and I regret it every single day. But there has never been anyone else, it’s only been you since the day I forced you to walk away.”

Y/n refused to make eye contact with him, only looking at her daughter and smiling at her.

Ran wasn’t sure she was even listening to him.

“Is that all?”

He shook his head, “no, I’ve been sending you money but you haven’t touched it and that made me frustrated so…” he swallowed the guilt. “I have someone secretly following you, he is tasked to protect you at all times, 24/7, and report to me about your daily activities… I’m sorry for invading your privacy and going behind your ba – “

“I know.”

“What?” his head snapped up, eyes wide as he stared into Y/n’s calm ones.

“I met him… K.”

His jaw dropped. “Mother fu –“ he stopped himself as his daughter turned her head to look at him right when he was about to swear. “I’m sorry, baby.” As if understanding him, she smiled brightly with a gummy smile. His heart nearly combusted.

“Don’t kill him,” Y/n looked at him with pleading eyes, “I caught him one day when I had pretended to have a stomachache. He was by my side instantly, confirming my suspicion. He didn’t reveal any information, but he answered my questions if I asked.” She looked away and reached for the toys her daughter was reaching for. “I had asked him not to tell you that I knew you assigned someone to watch over me. As much as I was hurt by you, it made me feel better knowing deep down, you cared even if it was a little bit.”

“Y/n…”

“So don’t kill him. He has become a friend to me.”

Ran wanted to kill him now knowing how close they’d become.

“Were you not curious how he was able to get such accurate details let alone photos of Fuyumi as if he was here in person?”

It all clicked in Ran’s head.

“I knew this guy was an expert at his job, just thought that this guy was just phenomenal at his job… only to discover he has become BFF with you.” His eyes drop to his daughter, “and my daughter too apparently.” He rests his elbow on his knees, covering his face. “God, I feel…” he sat up straight. “Y/n, I had all my shit planned out on what I want to tell you but I can’t remember sh – it. It. I can’t remember it now.” He stood up, walked around, and knelt before them, he grabbed Y/n by her shoulders. “Hit me all you want, be angry with me, and punish me for however long you want…” his hand shifts to cup her face. “Just don’t hate me and push me away.”

Y/n blinked dumbfoundedly, shocked at the Ran before her.

“I’ll do whatever you want, just… let me be part of your life again. And Yumi’s…” that was the name of his daughter’s photo album. “I may not have physically been there for you in the last months but K’s daily report made me feel as if I was. I will forever regret missing my daughter’s birth.”

Ran looked down when he felt something against his thigh. His daughter had pulled herself onto his lap. She looked up at him with curious eyes, almost admiring him. His gaze softened as he reached for her but froze, he looked up at Y/n, silently asking for permission.

“Yes, please…” Y/n had imagined if the day would come when Ran would hold their daughter.

Ran bit his lip, nervous, realizing he had never held a baby before, let alone been near one.

As if it was natural, he picked her up, holding her against his chest.

Y/n’s heart tightened watching them have a silent conversation. Ran’s smile softened as Fuyumi gently touched the Bonten insignia tattoo on his throat, her small fingers trying to grab at the design. A soft chuckle was elicited from Ran.

“You need to prove your worth to Yumi.”

Ran’s smile faded as he blinked at Y/n. “Yumi?” He repeated, “what… about you?”

Y/n broke eye contact, “you only need to work on your relationship with her.”

.

Ran visits his daughter almost every day and on the days that he could not, he would video-call her. He took pride in becoming one of her favorite humans. Her excitement when he walked through the door was all that Ran needed to make his day better.

“Hi Yumi!”

Hearing her father’s voice, the ten-month-old smiled brightly, flashing her solo tooth. She leaned against the coffee table, trying to reach for the TV controller that she loved more than her toys.

He picked up and spun her in the air, “did you have a good day?”

“Do you not see the bruise on the left side of her forehead?”

At Y/n’s words, Ran’s eyes widen seeing the new battle wound. “What did you fight today?”

“The TV stand and lost.”

“Losing is not in your blood, Yumi,” Ran scolded softly.

.

It was rare that Y/n would call him.

Especially when it was 3 AM.

“Y/n?”

“Ran, Yumi is running a fever and won’t go down. I – I need you to take us to the hospital.”

He was already pulling his pants on, “I’m on my way.”

Everything was a blur. He reached the hospital and barked for the nurses to look at his daughter. She was immediately taken away from Y/n’s arms and taken into a restricted area.

At that moment, Y/n turned to Ran, his arms wrapped tightly around her body. “It’ll be okay, she’ll be okay.”

.

Two days in the hospital passed by before they could finally head home. Yumi’s cheerful personality had fully returned.

During that time in the hospital, Ran stayed right beside them, only leaving to change and shower and would return. The first night, Yumi struggled and only slept well in the arms of her dad.

The image of Ran sleeping in the recliner with Yumi snoozing against his chest would forever be itched in Y/n’s mind.

“Home sweet home,” Ran sang, walking into the apartment. “Do you miss your toys?”

Y/n smiled, setting down their belongings. “Can you keep her busy while I put this stuff away?”

“Go for it,” Ran answered softly with a smile.

She returned fifteen minutes later and found that Ran had put Yumi down for her nap. She cuddles in the crook of Ran’s long arms.

Feeling her presence, he looked up and smiled and whispered, “she was playing when I noticed her head started to bob and she almost rolled over.”

Y/n smiled and whispered, “do you want to put her down?”

Slowly, Ran followed her to the nursery and set her down easily. When he turned around, Y/n was already gone from the room.

He found her in the living room, seated on the couch with her face covered in her hands. “Y/n?” When she looked up, her tear-streaked face had Ran kneeling in front of her in seconds. “What’s wrong? Why – why are crying?”

She surprised him when her arms wrapped around his neck, “I don’t know what to do without you.”

Ran sighed, relaxing in her embrace. He wrapped his arms around her waist. “It’s the same for me too, I don’t know what to do without you or Yumi.”

After a long pause, he couldn’t believe his ears when he heard her ask, “will you come back to us?”

He pulled away from her and gazed into her glossy eyes, he smiled, “I think the real question is, will you come back to me?” He has already stolen the heart of his daughter, he just needs to earn her heart this time around.

She choked back a sob and wiped her tears, smiling. “Yes, I’ll come back to you.” She cups his face before pressing her lips against his. “I hated you but I love you too much.”

“You can hate me just as long as you love me more,” he kissed her passionately, nipping her lip. “God, I love you too. I missed you so much… I never want to be apart from you or Yumi again…”

“I won’t let you go, there’s no turning back.”

“Done, I’m yours. Just as you are mine, forever.”

They stumbled into her bedroom, quickly shredding their clothes.

“Ran,” Y/n gasped, feeling him thrust into her. “God – I missed you…”

“I missed you too,” he murmured, slowly thrusting into her.

In silence, they both exchange soft gasps and moans, reminding one another why it’ll never work out with anyone else.

Their lips crashed against each other, making up for the lost time as their body continued to move in sync.

“Ran,” Y/n’s nails dug into his shoulder, “I’m so close… please… please let me cum…”

His lips pressed against her throat, teeth grazing against the skin. “Same – cum Y/n…”

Her legs wrapped tightly around his waist and her arms tightened around his neck, “ah – ha… Ran!”

His hips tremble as he cums, filling her womb.

Ran buried his face in the valley of her breasts, “I – I’m sorry… I forgot a condom…” It was Y/n’s laughter that he lifted his head, blinking at her in confusion.

She runs a hand through his lilac-streaked hair, “if you impregnate me again, please just be with me this time around.”

He tugs her wrist and presses a kiss to her palm. “Promise.”

E/n: Sweet daddy Ran is something else.

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>>> @queenelleee @mfreedomstuff @erintaro @callmeraider @chaotic-fangirl-blog @wolffmaiden @cloud-lyy

[shu-box-puns]

I've got this image of Dad!Tsu’tey from my Father-son-shenanigans AU turning up in ATWOW during the aftermath of the SeaDragon, specifically on that one rock. And he has no idea how he ended up there, but whilst Jake and Neytiri are quaking at the sudden appearance of their dead friend (visibly aged from the joys of fatherhood), Spider pops out of the ocean.

Naturally, Tsu'tey only has eyes for his son, and immediately gets launched head first into Protective!Dad mode at the state of him. He looks like a drowned rat, has several sluggishly bleeding cuts along his body, his stripes are faded more than his Spider ever allows. Not to mention, his dreads are matted at the scalp and are in desperate need of a retwist. But most alarming of all, none of his other family members (The Sully's) seem to remember to check on him in their shock of discovering Tsu'tey's presence.

Since no one else seems to be bothering, Tsu'tey helps Spider out of the water, noting the shock on the boy's face as he hesitantly takes Tsu'tey's outstretched hand.

<"Are you okay?"> Tsu'tey asks, as he has done for countless years. And horrifyingly, instead of Spider replying with "yes Dad," or "no Dad" Tsu'tey gets a-

<"Yes sir.">

Spider has never referred to Tsu'tey as 'sir' before. It's either 'Olo'eyktan' when he's in a mood and wants to get under Tsu'tey's skin, or 'Dad'.

<"Sir?"> Tsu'tey repeats with a curl of his nose. <"Who the hell is sir? I am Dad to you. I have always been Dad to you."> And of course, Tsu'tey is dead in this universe, and Spider has no clue who this strange forest na'vi is. Not to mention he's had a very long and emotional day surrounding another father figure.

<"Dude, I have no idea who you are.">

Cue:

Tsu'tey from my Dad!Tsu'tey AU looking at Spider in our ATWOW: "Watch out kid because you're about to get the strongest and most stable support system any clan has ever seen."

BONUS:

If Spider were to admit to Tsu'tey that Quaritch is alive (he's only known the man for an hour but Eywa does he trust him to keep Neytiri from mauling him):

Side Note: Tsu'tey has it all under control, and now has recruited Neytiri to go hunt down that dead beat dad.

[exhuastedpigeon]

Buddie Hiatus Fic Recs - Month 4 August 16 - Sept 15

I think is my favourite rec list for this little project so far. It has some of my all time favourite Buddie fics on it, fics that I've read over and over again because they just bring me so much joy.

Previous lists linked at the bottom!

0-5k

here (in your arms) by devirnis / @devirnis Explicit | 2.3k I have had THE WORST day. When I finally get home, I’m going to pass out and sleep like a rock, and then I want to wake up with you inside me.

the art of peeling mandarins for the one you love by oklahoma / @sunshinediaz Teen | 3.9k Buck asks Eddie to marry him in the kitchen, of all places.

5k-10k

but i've got my teeth in you by oklahoma / @sunshinediazTeen | 5.5k bad things happen bingo—tooth knocked out

you're the cream in my coffee by 42hrb Explicit | 8.6k Buddie coffee shop AU where everything is different, but they’re still idiots in love

wood you be mine? by MonsterRae1 / @monsterrae1 Mature | 9k the Lumberjack Buck fic.

10k-20k

With Great Power Comes Great Pining by Princessfbi / @princessfbi Teen | 10.4k It was the lightning strike. That had to be it. It was the only logical conclusion. Though, when it comes to being able to suddenly read people’s minds, Buck supposed there wasn’t a whole lot of logic involved.

endless numbered days by Daisies_and_Briars / @cal-daisies-and-briars Gen | 13.1k When a big event in the lives of the members of the 118 falls on the same weekend as Bobby's late son's birthday, Bobby finds himself reflecting on grief, fatherhood, and life after loss. 

The Scroll of Saint Barnabas by Amiril / @runawaymarbles Mature | 15k The day of the shooting, Eddie got stuck in a time loop. But that was three months ago. He's completely fine now.

Say Yes, and Figure It Out Afterwards by catwalksalone Explicit | 13.3k Buck and Eddie figure out a mutually beneficial way to deal with the first responder post-trauma cycle of up-horny-down.

Share the Joy by TalkNerdyToMe6 Teen | 14.2k After the lightning strike, Buck discovers he has more than just the ability to do long division in his head. Every time he touches Eddie, everything the other man is feeling moves through him like a wave of emotion, there and gone again. Buck can’t decide if that’s a blessing or a curse.

20k - 30k

light through the wave tips by bvckandeddie (zukkababey) / @bvckandeddie Explicit | 21.9k When Buck and Eddie planned a vacation with their kids over a year ago, they hadn’t exactly planned on bringing a seven-month-old baby along with them. Surely wrangling three kids can't be too much of a challenge—that is, if it weren't for Christopher's steadily worsening mood.

Cutting The Ties That Bind by kristen999 / @thekristen999 Mature | 34.4k Evan Buckley was a businessman, he had meetings and deadlines like everyone else. Sometimes he used intimation. While using the very same tactics he was trying to end while converting his family business into legitimate operations was a little hypocritical, it was the results that mattered.

Occasionally, he got threatened, but it was usually all hot air and ego. That all changed the day his breaks were tampered with. Enter Eddie Diaz, security specialist, who was not easily impressed by Buck’s expensive suits or financial conquests. That was okay. Buck enjoyed a challenge.

30k +

family (portrait) by ProsperDemeter / @prosperdemeter2 Teen | 45.1k realizing that the family that you need has been beside you all along.

like a dog with a bird at your door by fleetinghearts / @shitouttabuck Explicit | 51.1k evan “i love you like a dog” buckley has only ever known how to love like, well, a dog, but maybe eddie diaz is the kinda guy to give a flea-bitten mongrel a forever home

Being Eddie by Daisies_and_Briars / @cal-daisies-and-briars Teen | 79.8 Eddie goes through the time travel therapy process of the 2009 Canadian TV show Being Erica

what a heart can do by bvckandeddie (zukkababey) / @bvckandeddie Teen | 85.5k In which Buck becomes the guardian of the daughter he never knew he had. Together, they discover what happiness truly means to them.

Month 1 (May 15 - June 15) Month 2 (June 16 - July 15) Month 3 (July 16 - August 15)

[blkdaddie]

In the soft glow of candlelight, I sat hunched over the birthing chair, beads of sweat trickling down my temples. Each contraction felt like an inferno erupting within me, and yet, amid the searing pain, an unexpected sensation stirred within.

Contractions gripped my body with a ferocity I had never known. Grunts of pain escaped my lips as I clung to the railing, the only anchor in my churning world. My partner, his eyes shimmering with empathy and determination, was my beacon of hope.

As he massaged my tense shoulders and whispered words of comfort, a strange arousal began to flicker within me. The intensity of the experience, the rawness of it all, was igniting something unexpected. The pain and the pleasure were intertwined, creating a vortex of emotions I had never fathomed.

With each surge of agony, my body trembled and heaved. Yet, within the torment, there was an exhilaration that coursed through my veins. I felt strong, capable, and primal. My partner's presence, his unwavering support, only amplified these conflicting sensations.

In between contractions, as the pain subsided, the arousal lingered. It was an alien feeling, this mix of ecstasy and trepidation. I had never thought of birth as a sexual experience, but here I was, on the precipice of fatherhood, discovering a hidden facet of myself.

As the contractions grew closer together, their intensity reached a fever pitch. The pain was unbearable, but it was also strangely empowering. I focused on my breathing, on my partner's soothing voice, and on the life growing within me.

In a sudden, blinding flash of agony, something shifted. My body convulsed violently, and I felt a searing pressure between my legs. With a desperate grunt, I pushed with all my might, and with an earth-shattering cry, our child entered the world.

As the placenta followed, a wave of relief washed over me. I had done it. We had done it. My partner's tears of joy mingled with mine as we held our newborn son in our arms.

In that moment, as I gazed into his tiny, perfect face, I realized that the intensity of the birthing experience had not only brought him into the world but had also transformed me. I felt a deep sense of accomplishment, a profound connection to my partner, and an unexpected connection to my own body.

The birth of our child had been a journey into the depths of pain and pleasure, where the boundaries between my body and my mind had blurred. It had been an experience that had left an enduring mark on my soul, forever shaping the man I was and the father I would become.

[written-in-flowers]

Aegon Targaryen spending time with his four kids and wife, Almost 5?? I loved the four becomes five fic.

A/N: okay, this isn't exactly Aegon spending time with his kids, but that is at the end. I kind of like dad!Aegon despite how OOC it can be.

Tags: loads of parental fears, parental worries, mentions of pregnancy issues, mentions of premature illness, mentions of baby illness, miscarriages, stillbirths, but loads of aegon being fond of his babies and giving them dragon eggs. Yes, Aemond married Helaena, and I love every second of that.

***

Four Becomes Five pt. 2

Aegon knew children would be a part of marriage. They are a part of life. They keep the family going, the future bright and the lineage strong. Yet, the thought of having one of his own terrified him. He had no idea how to be a father; his own did nothing to teach or guide him in fatherhood. He saw how his siblings turned out, how he turned out. He worried he might ruin things, and the child became terrible. What if he ends up raising the next Maegor the Cruel? The child could become a deadpan lunatic like Aemond or a spineless worm like his father. Aegon worried his bad habits might influence his children, who then become unloved and scorned by his family. He thought of the possibility of them being deformed, and he’d be the reason they were. He might injure them by accident or teach them the ‘wrong’ things or be too distant or too suffocating or too neglectful or too attentive. Aegon had no idea how to raise a child. He had no desire to have one. Babies are so fragile, noisy and gross. He told you on your wedding night only one baby. You two would only have one. He wouldn’t run the risk of screwing up more than once. 

Until Daella. Nine months following your wedding night, you gave birth to a beautiful baby girl. She had his violet eyes and silver blond hair, but your skin tone and nose. Aegon stood outside the birthing room, anxious and needing a drink, when the maester came to tell him the labor ended. He guided Aegon into the room where he saw you sitting up against pillows, body drenched in sweat and hair clinging to your forehead and face. You wore a white garment that was still bloody around your legs, which were still slightly spread. In your arms, you carried a white bundle. Tears of joy slipped down your cheeks as you and Mother stared down at the baby in your arms. The child cried and cried while you tried shushing it. Aegon stayed on the outskirts of the scene, watching from the dark. This was it. He was a father now; no going back or running away. Well, actually, he COULD run, but he didn’t dare. He’d never leave you. He couldn’t even if he tried. You finally noticed him, smiled widely, and beckoned him closer. You knew about his fears of parenthood. 

“Would you like to hold your daughter, Aegon?” you asked him kindly. 

“What if I drop her?” was his first question. 

“You won’t.”

You instructed him on how to hold a newborn, and that’s when it happened. Seeing Daella’s violet eyes blink for a moment, her little body bundled up in a soft blanket, and simply holding her put out those fears. Yes, this felt right. He felt as if he were made for this. He’d screwed up most of the things in his life, and he feared he might mess this up, but dammit…he’d try his best. He rested back in a chair while you recovered, holding Daella and watching her sleep. 

He went to the dragonpit himself and picked out an egg from the incubating chamber. It was a white, sparkling egg with a blue gradient to the bottom. A beautiful egg for his beautiful princess. 

Aegon tried to quit drinking so much. He tried being there more. He tried helping with the baby as much as a man could, but…what if he’s doing too much? What if he should step back? He shouldn’t be all over Daella because she needed to experience things herself, and let her discover it on her own. You’d tell him ‘she’s only a baby, Aegon’, yet he insisted it stood. Daella made it easy by being the happiest baby around. She giggled easily, smiled often, and loved to play with toys and with others. Aegon liked this part the most. He wanted to be a part of it. He enjoyed playing ‘dragons and princesses’ with her; being a ‘guest’ at her tea parties and playing hide and seek in the apartments. 

Then, you and him had drunken sex on Daella’s second nameday. This very steamy, passionate moment resulted in a second pregnancy. That was fine. A second baby is okay. He’s gotten some experience with Daella, so a second would be fine. Right? Yes? It’s not as if he could screw up two different children. 

Saera came after, and what a beauty she was too. She looked like you in his eyes; you said she looked like him. It didn’t matter. Aegon chose a rose gold egg from the chamber that glittered magenta when turned the right way. An egg as enchanting as Saera. Even as a baby, people fawned over her. His grandsire commented that when Saera grew of age, he’d be knee-deep in marriage proposals. This never occurred to Aegon until that moment. He stared down at his daughter, fast asleep in his arms, and realized he’d have to give her to someone. One day, he’d have to marry her off…to a man…who might hurt or mistreat her. No, he’d obviously marry Saera to a brother or cousin or uncle. If she ended up never having a brother, she’d marry Aemond and Helaena’s son, Maelor. He’d have to make sure his brother raises his son right so he’s a good match for Saera. Yes, that makes sense, certainly. 

Daella being three, and Saera having just turned two, you announced you were pregnant for a third time. He’d wracked his brain to recall the time when you reminded him of the morning you both spent ‘taking the air’ in the palace gardens. He was positive he’d pulled out that time, but clearly, not quick enough. Aegon had Daella and Saera now, so a third child should be easy. His mother and father prayed for a Targaryen boy to keep the bloodline going. You said you didn’t care what their sex was; you’d love them regardless, and he felt the same. The third pregnancy came with complications. The maester told him there was a fair chance you might miscarry with all the delicacy of the situation; he felt helpless. This isn’t an enemy he can fight off or an illness that can be cured with a tonic. If the baby miscarried, he could do nothing about it. He could only pray…A thing he never did until the night you’d woken up to a puddle of blood in the bed. While the maester quieted you with milk of the poppy, Aegon went into the royal sept, where he lit a candle to every god. It surprised his mother, who’d come for the same reason that night. He told her he did not know what else to do, and she knelt there with him in silence.

Prayers were answered. On a cool, breezy morning, Baelon Targaryen came into the world. But, the maester told them not to exhale too deeply. Baelon came with many complications: thin, frail, and sickly. They feared he might not make it through the week. Aegon prayed again. He didn’t care if his son became crippled or disfigured from his illness, as long as he lived. The maesters did all they could for Baelon, but they feared he might not make it. Aegon and you both stayed beside his crib every night; you both prayed that The Mother showed mercy and took care of your boy. He feared the moment the baby stopped breathing or became too still. When Helaena told you she’d seen Baelon as a dragon in her dreams, hoping it meant something good, Aegon realized what he must do. He rushed to the dragonpit where one of the she-dragons recently produced a clutch of eggs. Emerald green with flecks of gold, when Aegon held it in his hands, he sensed the power within. He couldn’t explain it, but this dragon would be mighty and so would his son. He came back and placed the egg in Baelon’s cradle. A desperate attempt of a father who’d do anything for his son’s health. 

Finally, one hot night, when the city stunk and sweat stuck his clothes to his skin, young Baelon’s fever broke. His screaming woke up half the castle. Aegon thought there might be something wrong, something hurting the baby, but when the maester came, he suggested the boy nurse at his mother’s teat. You both sobbed together when you realized the worst had passed. Baelon became precocious and wily. He picked up walking faster than either of his sisters, and he liked cuddling with his dragon’s egg. He cried whenever someone tried removing it from him. Baelon was four by the time the egg hatched. ‘Endrys’, a dragon of dark green with golden lines under his scales, joined the other dragons in the dragonpit. The dragonkeepers declared that Endrys bonded with Baelon in the egg, a very, very, very rare thing. Aegon took this to mean his boy would be a strong dragonrider. 

Three children was enough for you both. You each had plenty on your hands. His mother said he might still drink and occasionally stray from his duties, but he’d become a decent father. Not a great one, yet better than his own. Aemond said fatherhood changed him. He didn’t think so. He still drank until he passed out, but only after the children went to bed. He still loved bedding you, though it became less frequent after Baelon’s risky birth. He thought you two might stop at three. Daella was already five, Saera was two and Baelon was one. It was enough. When you and him made love after a heated argument, he swore he’d pull out in time to keep it from going inside you. But, as Aemond said:

“Seems your technique is getting weak, Brother.”

Unfortunately, the child never made it to full term. He’d woken up one morning to find out you’d started your labors too early. You spent hours in complete agony, screaming and crying over the pains bursting in your body. Eventually, the maester withdrew the child. Deformed, pale white, with scales on its body, neither of you could understand the monster you’d birthed. Regardless, you’d named her Rhaella, and your dragon, Moonfyre, burned her body on a funeral pyre. Aegon shared your sadness. He comforted you as best as husband could, while also trying to explain to your children why they didn’t have a sister anymore. You became pregnant two more times in the passing years. One miscarried, and the other was another stillbirth. He guessed the gods were trying to tell him that he had plenty of children already. 

Then Vaelen came. He came slowly and quietly, like a snake sneaking up on prey. Aegon made this analogy because Vaelen rarely cried. He rarely smiled. Aegon joked that he appeared to be ‘in thought’ all the time. He'd placed a matte orange egg with reddish scales in the cradle, though Vaelen paid no mind to it. The quiet baby turned into a reserved, solemn boy who liked listening to stories, going on walks with his mother, and looking at plants. 

In the sitting room after dinner, Aegon sat in his chair by the fire and admired his family from afar. Daella worked quietly on her needlework, which her septa said needed vast improvement. She grumbled to herself, much like you do, and hissed angrily when she’d skewed a stitch. You told her to be patient, relax, and take her time. Saera sat at her feet, making two of her dolls kiss. She said they’d gone on a fantastical journey across the kingdom, fighting monsters and villains, before coming home to get married. He smiled at her imagination, her innocence. Vaelen sat at a table nearby, crushing leaves with a mortar and pestle with a few other ingredients in front of him. When asked, he said he was recreating Maester Orwyle’s soothing salve for burns. He only did this because Baelon returned from the dragonpit, slightly singed with a burn mark on his arm and chest. He’d accidentally come across a hatchling that escaped the warming chamber. When trying to take it back, the hatchling panicked and spewed hot air that burned through Baelon’s clothes. Baelon wasn’t angry with the baby, but the burns it left irritated him. Aegon could tell when his son put up a front, acting as if he wasn’t in so much pain. Still, he rested against you and quietly listened to you read to the room aloud. 

Your belly is the first thing he noticed. Four months into the pregnancy, you already began showing slightly. After that quick one following a reunion dinner with family, he’d somewhat hoped to have another child. Aegon took a swig from his ale mug, smiled softly, and pictured a fifth child sitting amongst the ones he had now. He prayed that the child would come out healthy. He quite enjoyed being a father now. 

He didn’t mind it so much anymore. 

[carakook]

The Astronaut ✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧

"He feels like he’s an Astronaut who discovered a new moon colored in shades of your love, beautiful little stars surrounding it with Saebyeol’s precious little face in every single one. He has no idea how he got so lucky."

•¨•.¸��☆*･ﾟﾟ･☆¸¸.•¨*••¨•.¸¸☆*･ﾟﾟ･☆¸¸.•¨*•

✧Pairings: dad!Kim Seokjin x mom!reader

✧Synopsis: Being new parents is hard, most of the time it’s much harder on the mom than the dad… Kim Seokjin would silently argue that isn’t always the case. Today your baby had her first round of shots, and Jin is a mess after seeing her cry. Dramatic and blubbering, you have to comfort the poor man before he turns into a baby himself.

✧Genre: Romance/Comedy/Fluff

✧Word count: 2k+

✧Warnings: Lots of talk about babies!!! Mother and fatherhood, crying, Jin being dramatic and sappy, no smut so this one is fairly tame! Talks of labor and delivery, immunization/vaccination talk (it isn’t that serious I promise), fluffy fluff fluff, lemme know if I missed anything!

✧Disclaimer: This story in no way reflects the characters of those who are mentioned. It is pure fiction and for entertainment purposes only. Please don’t take it seriously. Nothing is real in this story.

✧A/N: Here is my second request! This was a request for Jin being a dad with major fluff. It is exactly that lol. I hope you guys enjoy this lil Drabble/one shot, poor Jin. By the way…. I fucking miss Jin??? Daddy Jin better get his ass home soon I stg 😭 love you guys!

•¨•.¸¸☆*･ﾟﾟ･☆¸¸.•¨*••¨•.¸¸☆*･ﾟﾟ･☆¸¸.•¨*•

“Jin, Jesus, please come out of the damn bathroom.”

You wait with your forehead pressed against the bathroom door, have half a mind to fucking bang your head against it at this point honestly. Because Jin, in Jin fashion, is being so goddamn dramatic.

It hasn’t been long since you’ve both became parents, and although it wasn’t exactly planned, you’re both so fucking happy. Never have been happier.

But with becoming a parent, also comes a lot of mixed emotions. For you, of course your hormones are at an all time high after giving birth, so you’re extra sensitive. The mood swings are volatile; one moment you’re crying because your daughter hiccuped and it was too cute, the next moment you’re on the verge of committing murder because Jin looked at you the wrong way.

But even then, you’re overwhelmed with joy. Sure, the emotions give you whiplash, but it’s worth it.

Jin, however, sometimes you swear he’s more dramatic than you are. Like today, he’s a fucking mess. Today marks two weeks of you giving birth, which means you had to take your daughter, Saebyeol, to get her checkup… which also means she had to get some of her immunization shots.

Jin did not handle this well at all.

Of course the baby cried, every baby does, even adults do when getting shots; who likes getting poked with a sharp needle? But you were easily able to calm her down after the shots were done by feeding her and holding her.

It’s now been three hours since the appointment, and Jin is still in the fucking bathroom, crying like a little baby himself.

You swear that he has become more sensitive than you most days. The moment Saebyeol cries, so does Jin. If she seems upset, so is Jin. If she’s hungry, Jin is on your ass saying ‘feed my baby, you’re starving her!’

It can be sooo fucking irritating… but also, it’s the cutest fucking thing, especially since Jin is usually so calm and collected in situations like these; he’s always been the level headed one.

Your entire pregnancy, he was the level headed one. When you were worried about something being wrong with the baby, or you started nesting and fretting over every little thing around your home, Jin was there to reassure you and calm your worries. Even during delivery, he was there to soothe you; you have no idea how the man managed to stay completely calm when you sounded as if you were actually dying before getting the epidural; but he did. And he was calm the entire time…

Until he saw Saebyeol.

The moment Jin laid his eyes on her, it’s like that calm demeanor never even existed. He was a fucking mess. He started bawling his eyes out, repeating over and over again, ‘Oh my god, my baby, my star, she’s the prettiest thing I’ve ever seen,‘

After that, it didn’t stop. Two weeks later and he’s still as sensitive and protective as ever. He’s so in tuned with both you and Saebyeol’s moods and emotions, it’s as if he takes them on himself. Whatever you’re both feeling, he feels too, but ten times the amount.

More so Saebyeol’s than yours.

Which is why he is having a fit in the bathroom right now. Of course he was a wreck at the appointment, the man looked as if he wanted to punch the nurse in the face. And yes, he cried, immediately snatched Saebyeol up after the shots which caused you to have to pry her out of his arms so you could feed her. ‘But they hurt my poor baby! It’s so cruel, she’s in pain…’

God, so dramatic. But oh so sweet.

On the ride home he was crying on and off. Has been even since you both got home and Saebyeol went down for a nap. You couldn’t quite understand why, and he was being so stubborn about it. Kept saying it’s stupid and he doesn’t want to talk about it.

It is kind of stupid… but also, seeing Jin cry is almost as bad as seeing Saebyeol cry, because Jin doesn’t cry often at all. It’s heartbreaking to see this calm man breakdown over something so small.

“Jin, please, you’re starting to worry me. Can you tell me why you’re so torn up at least? Just come out of the bathroom, I’m gonna go insane…”

You try to coax him out. He did end up calming down after you both got home, but it didn’t last long because he walked in to check on Saebyeol after she fell asleep (he has a habit of compulsively checking on her, has woken her up more than once at this point doing it.) and he broke down again. But this time, the tears didn’t stop, and he ended up locking himself in the damn bathroom like a child.

What really happened, was he saw the little bandaid on Saebyeol’s arm and he lost it again. He remembered the little pout she made before she started wailing from the prick of the needle, and then he remembered the wailing, and then the sniffling, and ugh he couldn’t take it.

So yes, he is indeed in the bathroom crying. Because how dare they hurt his precious little girl? It was necessary, of course, but still, how dare they? The only reason he’s in the bathroom is because even he knows damn well how dramatic he’s being. Jin has always been a bit dramatic, it’s just part of who he is, but this time he can’t help it. And he doesn’t want to bug you with his blubbering, he knows you’re going through enough postpartum as it is, he doesn’t want to add to your stress.

But his poor baby, his poor little star got pricked with a mean needle, and he just can’t get her sad little face out of his head.

“Just give me a minute, I need to cry.”

You groan, because he’s said this four times now. You get it, he needs to cry, everyone does sometimes. Being a new parent is hard and it’s normal to be sensitive and a bit over worried about your baby. But can’t he at least explain?

“Ok, but what exactly are you crying about? She’s fine now, sound asleep as if it didn’t even happen…”

You try once more to coax him out as you speak through the door. He knows you’re right, she’s fine now, but can’t a man cry over his little girl getting hurt?

“She looked so sad… I could die, I swear, I don’t ever wanna see her cry like that again.”

You want to snort at this, because you know damn well Saebyeol will cry much worse than she did today at some point. As babies grow into toddlers, it’s inevitable that they get hurt sometimes. You can’t even imagine how he’s gonna react when she has her first fall or first knee scrape.

“Jin, baby, she’s a baby too… she’s gonna cry. She’s gonna get hurt. And she’s also gonna be ok.”

“I am not a baby. I am a father who is in distress about his baby being hurt!”

Dramatic mother fucker… literally.

“Ok, ok, I know, I know. Just come out of the bathroom, let me love on you and make you feel better.”

He sniffles at this, is starting to feel his tears dry up as he swipes at his eyes. He feels selfish for his reaction, and also a little childish at how he’s locked himself in the bathroom. But god, he’s just worried. Worried about Saebyeol, worried about you too. He doesn’t want you to think he doesn’t care about your feelings, he knows you’re going through it far worse than him.

But he could use a hug.

So reluctantly, he gets off of the toilet seat, pads over to the bathroom mirror above the sink and tries to readjust his pitiful tear stained expression, and then opens the bathroom door.

Seeing you just makes him start to cry again.

You immediately get on your tiptoes to wrap your arms around his shoulders, put your fingers in his hair, and bring him in for a close embrace. “Oh baby, such a mess…” you coo at him.

He buries his face in the crook of your neck and sniffles again so pitifully, taking in your comforting scent. He’s starting to think that somehow your pregnancy hormones have worn off on him, because now he isn’t crying because of Saebyeol, but because of you and how fucking pretty motherhood looks on you.

“Fuck, I’m sorry Y/N. I have no idea what the hell is wrong with me…”

You kiss the top of his head and tsk at him, “Don’t apologize, you’re just a dramatic baby is all. S’fine. Just hate seeing you cry.”

He grunts into the crook of your neck, “I am NOT. I’m just a father. A father with a precious baby and beautiful wife. Can’t handle it. Don’t know what I did to deserve you two…”

Your heart both warms and breaks at the same time, because Jin deserves everything. Seriously, he has been so good to you, has given you everything you could ever wish for in life and in a relationship. He works hard for you, for Saebyeol, and for himself too. He deserves all the good things, and you wished he wasn’t so humble about it.

He doesn’t agree. Jin has always been an incredibly cocky man, loves himself so much. Has always loved himself more than anyone else… until you came along and stole his heart. He lived selfishly before you, served himself and was proud of his accomplishments. But as time went on, he learned to live selflessly, and everything he did was for you.

He never imagined he could love anything more than you, but then you got pregnant, and you had his child. He is so full of love that he can’t handle it sometimes. He feels like he’s an Astronaut who discovered a new moon colored in shades of your love, beautiful little stars surrounded it with Saebyeol’s precious little face in every single one; its why he wanted to name her Saebyeol. He has no idea how he got so lucky.

“You deserve it more than anyone Jin. So stop crying. Me and Saebyeol are happy and healthy, you should be too.”

“I am— that’s the issue, I am so happy and I have no idea how to handle it. Makes me a goddamn mess.”

You pull back a bit, flat on your feet again as you bring your hands to his forehead and brush his hair out of his face. Smile at him sweetly. God, you got lucky with him too.

“That’s ok. But maybe don’t cry over every little thing, yeah? You’re stressing me out.”

You’re only joking, of course. You’re thankful he cries, even if it breaks your heart; it shows he’s comfortable with his emotions. You just wanna make him laugh a bit, scold him playfully.

He huffs at you and pulls away, flicks his hair even as he sniffles, “Yeah, yeah, whatever. At least I didn’t cry when they forgot the ranch at McDonalds.”

You feign offense, pinch his arm as you huff at him, “Hey! I was pregnant and needed that ranch!”

You both start giggling at each other, which doesn’t last long because Jin’s crying seems to have woken up Saebyeol, judging by the little noises you hear coming from her nursery.

Thank fucking god she isn’t crying.

He gives you a sheepish look, “Oops.”

He isn’t sorry though, not really. He’ll never admit it, but sometimes he will consider waking Saebyeol up on purpose just so he can see her pretty little smile… but he never does, knows his precious little star needs her sleep, and his beautiful moon needs a damn break.

Doesn’t stop him from getting giddy when she finally does wake up, though.

You both walk into Saebyeol’s nursery, and there she is, cooing at nothing while she sucks on her fingers.

“Ugh! She’s starving, do you ever feed her?!”

He immediately rushes over to her as if the kid hasn’t ever been fed properly. Sometimes you wanna smack him, because you feed her literally so many times a day. There’s no way the little thing is actually staving.

But again, he’s dramatic. One of the things you’ve learned to just deal with, especially when it comes to his star.

You roll your eyes as you watch him pick her up and coddle her. But your eyes warm quickly when you see the adoration in his eyes as he holds her. He really does love her so much, loves you too, you’re both his entire universe.

She lets out the tiniest giggle at his pouty face, a smile following as she reaches up to touch his cheek curiously.

“She’s so pretty. Just like me.”

Yeah, ok, you roll your eyes again. Because of course Jin would say some shit like that while looking so serious about it.

“Yah, what about me?” You pout at him as you cross your arms, lean over a bit to look at Saebyeol as he holds her.

He waves his free hand at you, “Yeah, sure, you’re pretty.”

You’d definitely smack him on the head if he wasn’t holding Saebyeol right now.

But of course he’s kidding. He thinks next to Saebyeol, you’re the prettiest girl in the world. Could stare at you for hours, wishes he could imprint your face on his brain so everything looks like you.

He smirks at you, bumps his shoulder into yours, “Seriously babe, you’re pretty. Prettiest ever. But I guess that’s expected, I’m world-wide handsome, you know? Of course I’d have the prettiest wife and daughter.”

You cackle at this, because it is so sweet, but such a Jin thing to say. Of course he’d make you feel like the prettiest girl in the world, while also reminding you he is the prettiest man in the world.

Your cackle doesn’t last long though, because Saebyeol starts whining. She’s hungry, not starving like Jin swears she is, but she is hungry.

“Oh, poor baby, such a hungry baby, daddy will feed you, don’t you worry… won’t let mommy starve you.”

You glare at him as you walk away to prepare the bottle for Saebyeol, mutter a few unsavory words under your breathe.

Time to feed the baby before the other baby has another fit.

[dndfantasygirl]

Family Matters (Prologue)

Rating: Mature Word count: 1.8k Pairing: Astarion x Female Tav (named)/OC Warnings: violence, strong language, innuendo

Summary: After an argument with his eldest daughter leads to summoning a shadow from his past, Astarion must push aside his fears to protect the family he never thought he'd have.

*Link to AO3 Post

A decade ago, the mere notion of Astarion becoming a father would have incited raucous laughter from him. The very idea seemed ludicrous, an absurdity to be dismissed without a second thought. His life, after all, had been defined by shadows and deceit, devoid of any room for such domestic concepts.

However, fate has a way of weaving unexpected threads into the tapestry of one's existence. Astarion found himself thrust into an unlikely role as a parental figure, albeit under circumstances he could scarcely have imagined. The responsibility fell upon him during the year Arabella journeyed alongside them following the tumultuous events surrounding the Netherbrain. Delphie, with her protective instincts and fierce devotion to Arabella, would have surely taken his head had any harm befallen the young tiefling under his watch.

Yet, even as he fulfilled this role, Astarion remained ignorant of his own capacity for fatherhood. Being a spawn, he had assumed himself to be inherently infertile, an assumption born of his undead nature. It was a revelation that blindsided him, hitting with the force of a bolt from the blue, when Delphie unexpectedly found herself carrying their child.

Despite the persistent curse of vampirism lingering within him, Astarion eventually found a semblance of solace in the form of a ring—a small, unassuming trinket that bestowed upon him the remarkable ability to withstand the searing touch of sunlight. While it didn't eradicate his affliction entirely, it offered him a newfound freedom to bask in the daylight without fear of immolation, a luxury he had long believed to be forever beyond his reach. And though the tantalizing prospect of once again traversing running water and crossing thresholds uninvited remained an unattainable dream, he discovered an unexpected contentment in the life he now led.

His union with Delphie blossomed into a marriage not long before they parted ways with Arabella. Their love, tempered by adversity, had only grown stronger, fortified by a bond that transcended the boundaries of mortality and time. Yet, their joy was tinged with trepidation when Delphie discovered she carried their child—a miracle wrought from the interplay of vampiric heritage and a serendipitous twist of fate.

Gale's revelation regarding the transfer of fertility through blood had offered a glimpse into the intricacies of their unconventional family tree, shedding light on the origins of their impending parenthood. Astarion grappled with doubts, plagued by uncertainty over his aptitude for fatherhood, while Delphie harbored fears of reprisal from the countless enemies they had amassed over the years.

So, to ensure the safety of their offspring and as a belated wedding gift, the dragons, Wyll, Gale, and Shadowheart all came together to build a comfortable home inside the secluded Dragon Cove. It would be a safe environment for the children to grow up in. Of course, the children would frequently take the portal with them to go to Baldur's Gate when errands needed to be run, but they would never leave their side. The only exception would be if they were put in the care of Delphie's step-siblings or Shadowheart.

Delphie's determination to find a cure for Astarion's vampirism remained steadfast, an unwavering beacon of hope that burned bright even amidst the joys and responsibilities of parenthood. Though their family had expanded to include two precious daughters, her quest for a remedy persisted, fueled by a love that knew no bounds and a fervent desire to see her husband freed from the shackles of his cursed existence.

Yet, as the demands of parenthood grew, they found themselves facing a dilemma—the dragons were ill-equipped to care for two young elven girls for extended periods of time when they received a new lead for a cure. It was then that Shadowheart emerged as a beacon of support and solace.

Despite her aloof exterior, Shadowheart harbored a hidden reservoir of warmth and affection, particularly when it came to the two young girls who had captured her heart. In them, she saw echoes of innocence and resilience, qualities she had long thought lost amidst the trials and tribulations of her own tumultuous journey. As she watched over them, a fierce sense of protectiveness welled within her, driving her to become not only their guardian but their confidante and mentor as well.

In a gesture of profound significance, Shadowheart assumed the mantle of godmother to their daughters—a role she embraced with unwavering dedication and tenderness. From storytelling beneath starlit skies to imparting lessons of wisdom and courage, she showered the girls with a love that transcended the boundaries of blood and kinship.

They were celebrating their firstborn, Scarlette's ninth birthday at the House of Hope, a midpoint thanks to Hope that allowed Karlach to see her nieces every few months.

Leta, as they affectionately called her, bore a striking resemblance to her mother, a reflection of Delphie's grace and beauty manifested in the form of big, verdant eyes that sparkled with mischief and a delicate button nose that bespoke of innocence and wonder. Yet, amidst the familiar contours of her mother's visage, there lay a subtle reminder of her unique heritage—a line of faint golden scales adorning the curve of each cheek, a legacy of ancient lineage and untold secrets.

From an early age, Leta had displayed an affinity for the arcane arts—a gift inherited from her mother that bloomed with each passing day, unleashing torrents of raw magic whenever her emotions soared to dizzying heights. Though her burgeoning powers often led to chaos and mischief, there was an undeniable beauty in the way she danced amidst the currents of magic, a testament to the untamed potential that lay dormant within her soul.

Yet, despite the undeniable bond forged by blood and love, Astarion couldn't shake the lingering sense of distance that seemed to grow between them with each passing year. Their interactions were marked by heated debates and clashes of will, a testament to their stubborn natures and the tumultuous currents that surged between them. And yet, amidst the tumult, there remained an unbreakable bond—a father's love that transcended the petty squabbles and misunderstandings of mortal existence.

The first time Astarion cradled Leta in his arms, a swell of emotion washed over him—a tidal wave of love and tenderness that threatened to overwhelm his hardened heart. In that fleeting moment, as he gazed into her wide, innocent eyes, he glimpsed the boundless potential of a life yet to unfold—a future brimming with promise and possibility, guided by the unwavering love of a father who would move mountains to see her smile.

As the years swept by, Astarion and Delphie's family expanded once more with the arrival of their second daughter, Lilliana, affectionately known as Lily. Unlike her elder sister, Leta, whose features bore a striking resemblance to their mother, Lily's appearance echoed that of her father in unmistakable ways.

Pale as moonlight, Lily's complexion carried the ethereal pallor of her vampiric heritage. Yet, it was in her eyes that Astarion's legacy shone most brilliantly—crimson orbs that glimmered with an intensity that mirrored the flames of a dying sunset. And then there were the fangs—protruding from her delicate lips with a subtle prominence that set her apart from her sister. While Leta too possessed the telltale signs of vampiric lineage, Lily's were more pronounced.

Yet, despite her father's influence, Lilliana possessed her own unique charm—a mischievous twinkle in her eye and a smile that could light up the darkest of nights. Unlike her sister, who often found solace in the depths of her mother's embrace, Lily gravitated towards Astarion.

In Lily, Astarion saw echoes of his own past—a reminder of the life he had left behind, of the darkness and the shadows that had once consumed him. And yet, in her laughter and her boundless curiosity, he found a glimmer of hope—a beacon of light that illuminated the path towards redemption and forgiveness.

Though he loved both of his daughters with a fierceness that knew no bounds, there was something about Lily—the way she clung to his side, the way her laughter danced upon the air—that tugged at his heartstrings in a way that was uniquely her own. She was his babe, his little vampiric sprite.

Astarion couldn't help but chuckle at Delphie's frantic concern over Lily's penchant for nibbling on anything and everything once she turned four. No matter how many times he reassured her that it was merely a natural phase of their daughter's vampiric development, she couldn't shake the worry that gnawed at her heart.

As the years passed, the bond between Leta and Lily only grew stronger, evolving into a steadfast companionship that transcended the confines of mere siblinghood. They shared everything—from their dreams to their deepest fears and secrets. Together, they laughed and played, their laughter echoing off the walls of the Dragon Cove like a sweet melody.

Even in their moments of disagreement and petty squabbles, there was an undeniable closeness that bound them together. They slept curled up together, their bodies entwined in a tangle of limbs and whispers, finding solace and comfort in the presence of each other's warmth.

Inseparable in every sense of the word, Leta and Lily navigated the twists and turns of life's journey hand in hand, their laughter and tears intertwined like the threads of a tapestry.

As Astarion reclined in the comfort of the regal armchair, his gaze softened with affection as he observed his daughters, Leta and Lily, frolicking together in the foyer of the House of Hope. Their laughter filled the air like the tinkling of bells, a symphony of joy that resonated deep within his soul. Despite the passage of time and the trials they had faced, moments like these served as a poignant reminder of the precious gift of family—a gift he had once believed to be forever beyond his reach.

The warmth of Delphie's hand on his shoulder and the gentle press of her lips against his cheek stirred a surge of gratitude within him—a silent acknowledgment of the love and support that had sustained him through the darkest of days.

And so, as he sat amidst the splendor of the House of Hope, surrounded by the laughter and love of his family, Astarion couldn't help but marvel at the twists and turns of fate that had led him to this moment. So, yes. If someone had dared to suggest to him a decade ago that he would one day be a father, he would have dismissed it as the fanciful ramblings of a madman. And yet, here he was, basking in the warmth of his daughters' smiles and the tender embrace of his beloved wife—a testament to the unpredictable nature of life's journey and the transformative power of love to defy even the most improbable of odds.

[lou-mochroi]

[ pablo schreiber, cis male, he/him ] — whoa! LOU MOCHROI just stole my cab! not cool, but maybe he needed it more. he has lived in the city for ALL HIS LIFE, working as a HORTICULTURIST. that can’t be easy, especially at only 45 YEARS OLD. some people say he can be a little bit BOISTEROUS and UNSOPHISTICATED, but I know him to be AFFECTIONATE and PASSIONATE. whatever. I guess I’ll catch the next cab. hope he likes the ride back to STATEN ISLAND! — (hannah, 33, est, she/her, n/a)

BASICS

full name: Lou Conmac Mochroi

pronouns: he / him

sexual orientation: straight

relationship status: single

occupation: Director of Horticulture at Snug Harbor

BIOGRAPHY

Born and raised in Brooklyn, Lou has spent most of his life in and around the city. He roamed the States for traveling conservation work in his 20s, but he always came back to the Big Apple. Even grad school only got him as far as upstate New York. But when he finished that degree, he decided it was time to strike out fully on his own and moved to Staten Island to be closer to work. He's been the Director of Horticulture at Snug Harbor for six years now, and has worked at the gardens for thirteen years in total.

At 38, his oft-traveling, hardly-official girlfriend discovered she was pregnant with a child her life had no room for. In the end, Lou was eager take on the new adventure of fatherhood and signed up whole-heartedly to be A Single Dad. Now seven-years-old, Molly's his pride and joy--and getting harder to keep up with.

TRIVIA

He comes from a large, nosy, but loving Irish family. Their propensity to involve themselves in neighborhood drama was a motivating factor in getting some distance. (open to connections for any siblings)

His undergrad basketball career at Stony Brook was cut short after a knee injury. The intro to botany class he just happened to be taking at the time caught his attention, and the rest was history.

Spent most of his 20s traveling around the country doing manual labor gig work for conservation groups. It wasn't the most consistent money, but it was a great way to sate his wanderlust.

[tedwardremus]

Rage Against The Dying Of The Light

Chapter 6: Occlumency

My Dearest James,

As I sit down to write this letter, I am overwhelmed with emotions, knowing that I am about to share some of my thoughts on fatherhood. It is a commitment that shapes not just our lives but, most importantly, the future that lies ahead.

First and foremost, let me express the immense joy and pride I feel in being your father. From the moment you entered our lives, my world gained a new purpose and a depth of meaning that words can hardly capture. Every laugh, every tear, every shared moment has been a precious gift, and I am grateful for the privilege of being by your side.

As you know your mother and I tried for a long time, too long many said, to bring a child to our family. We had given up, we were at the age where these things were impossible. But you were our miracle. A gift when we least expected it. I know it has been at times a burden to have parents as advanced in our age as your mum and I are but we hope you know how deeply loved you were all the same. Your own impending fatherhood is just as unexpected, though at the opposite end of the age spectrum. But I have no doubt you are ready for this challenge. 

And please be reassured that your parents will be with you every step of the way. You may be grown but you will soon learn that parenthood is a never ending position you will hold in your life.

As you grow, I want to impart to you the weight and beauty of the responsibility that comes with being a father. It's not merely about providing a roof over our heads or material comforts; it extends far beyond that. It is about being a guiding force, a source of unwavering support, and a wellspring of love.

Responsibility, my son, is the backbone of fatherhood. It's about making choices that reflect not just your own interests but the welfare and happiness of your child. It's about shouldering the challenges with resilience and facing the storms with courage that is fueled by love.

You will learn that being a father means being a teacher, a friend, a disciplinarian, and a constant source of encouragement. It's about nurturing dreams, instilling values, and imparting the lessons that will shape your children into compassionate, responsible individuals.

However, my dear, don't mistake responsibility for burden. Yes, there will be tough times, moments of doubt, and challenges that seem insurmountable. But remember, in the crucible of responsibility, you'll discover strengths you never knew you had. Your love will become a guiding light, and your commitment will forge bonds that withstand the tests of time.

Above all, my son, I encourage you to embrace the joy that fatherhood brings. 

Cherish the small victories, celebrate the milestones, and savor the ordinary moments that make life extraordinary. 

As you navigate this incredible journey of fatherhood, know that my love and support are unwavering. You have the strength within you to be the father your children need, just as I have found the strength in being yours.

Love,

Your most proud and adoring father

[opalpearl86]

Unexpected Bonds: A Polyamorous Journey with a Yautja Clan Leader and a Human Mate

Introduction:

In this captivating tale, we delve into the life of Manuel Torres, a staff sergeant stationed on Yautja Prime, who finds himself in a unique and complex polyamorous relationship. Join Manuel as he navigates the challenges and joys of being in love with Zarak, a male Yautja clan leader, and Aurora Reeves, a human woman. Together, they embark on a journey of self-discovery, passion, and unexpected parenthood.

Chapter 1: A Lonely Omega

Meet Manuel Torres, a staff sergeant stationed on Yautja Prime. Explore his feelings of isolation and frustration as the only omega in his late forties living in the human settlement. Discover his desires for sexual satisfaction with other men but no satisfying results afterwards and his longing to experience pregnancy once again.

Chapter 2: A Forbidden Attraction

Delve into Manuel's deep emotional connection with Aurora Reeves, Colonel Reeves' daughter. Uncover the challenges they face as they navigate their growing attraction while Manuel serves as Aurora's guard detail. Witness their patience and understanding as they wait for the right moment to explore their physical desires.

Chapter 3: A Twist of Fate

Experience the feast after treaty negotiations with a neighboring Yautja clan, where Manuel's dreams of being with Aurora are interrupted. Learn how Manuel and Aurora become mates with Zarak, the Yautja clan leader, as part of the treaty negotiations. Witness Aurora's fiery temperament and the unexpected arousal it sparks in both Manuel and Zarak.

Chapter 4: Passion Unleashed

Follow Manuel and Zarak as they return to Zarak's clan territory. Explore Manuel's fascination with the hunting trophies and the passionate encounters that unfold between him and Zarak. Discover the intense pleasure Manuel experiences as he revels in the physical and emotional connection with Zarak.

Chapter 5: A Journey of Pleasure and Discovery

Witness Aurora's loss of virginity to Zarak with Manuel's blessings. Join them in their passionate lovemaking as they explore new depths of pleasure together. Experience the intense pleasures they all share, including double penetration, as they embrace their unique bond.

Chapter 6: Unexpected Parenthood

Discover the joy and challenges of Manuel and Aurora's pregnancies. Learn about the differences between human and Yautja pregnancies and the anticipation they feel as they await the arrival of their children. Witness the love and support they receive from their respective families.

Chapter 7: A Sense of Completion

Experience the birth of Aurora's human daughter and Manuel's difficult labor to deliver his and Zarak's Yautja hybrid pup. Witness the sense of fulfillment and completion Manuel feels as he reflects on his journey of fatherhood. Explore the excitement of his sons as they prepare to meet their new siblings during a visit to Earth.

Conclusion:

Join Manuel Torres on his unexpected journey of love, passion, and parenthood. Explore the complexities of a polyamorous relationship with a Yautja clan leader and a human mate. Discover the strength and resilience of their bond as they navigate the challenges that come their way. This captivating tale will leave you inspired and longing for your own adventure in love and connection.

[ravensliterature]

A Life Worth Fighting For

A/N: Last post for today but feel free to send me requests!

pairing: Levi Ackerman x Reader

warnings: Seriously only fluff

w/c: 1122

Prompt: The war is over. Now it is time for you and Levi to enjoy what’s next. 

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Levi had never envisioned himself as the fatherly type, and truly, he hadn’t thought he’d ever have the chance. Titans had consumed his entire existence until the war finally ended. His days had been overshadowed by a constant dread for his life and, more piercingly, for yours. Even as humanity’s strongest warrior, Levi was haunted by the fear that he couldn’t always protect you—a thought that terrorized him so deeply he would lie awake for weeks on end during the war. He was plagued by nightmares of you dying or, perhaps worse, being captured by an enemy. Now, those days seemed like a distant, almost foreign past.

It was a few months post-war when Levi discovered you were pregnant. Although not naturally inclined towards fatherhood, he proved to be a quick learner. He endeavored to ensure everything was perfectly arranged in your modest home. When it came time to welcome the baby, you both agreed on the name Harwin, a tribute to old friends. Levi was ecstatic, though his stoic expression seldom betrayed his deep joy. He was determined to raise your son to be a strong, principled man, providing him with all the opportunities he himself had been denied as a child. Despite the occasional frustrations—typical of any parent—Levi cherished his family profoundly.

“Mom! Dad! Wake up! We’re visiting Auntie Mikasa and Uncle Jean today!” Harwin’s voice, brimming with youthful exuberance, bounced as energetically as he did on your bed.

Groaning and grumbling, it took you both a few moments to shake off the veil of sleep. “In a moment, you little turd,” Levi yawned, sitting up and rubbing his eyes.

Harwin pouted, making eye contact with Levi. “You’re no fun!”

“Harwin…” you chided, crossing your arms over your chest.

“I’m sorry, mom,” he quickly apologized, hopping down from the bed and darting towards his room.

You rolled out of bed, mindful of your swollen stomach, and stretched your sore back muscles. “That boy is something else.”

You ambled over to Levi’s side of the bed, assisting him into his wheelchair. The war had left him with lasting scars, permanently damaging his legs. Although the doctors had mentioned he could walk, they advised against it due to his pronounced limp and the risk of exacerbating his condition. It was more prudent for him to use the wheelchair for the time being, a reality Levi had accepted with his typical stoicism.

“How’s the baby today?” Levi inquired, settling into his chair and adjusting it to wheel himself to the bedroom door.

“They are doing great. I can feel him moving inside me already and kicking. They’re strong, Levi,” you said, a proud smile lighting up your face.

He returned your smile and placed his hand over your abdomen, hoping to feel the baby’s movements. The child grew stronger by the day, which filled Levi with immense joy and contentment. After nearly seven years together, he was thoroughly at peace with calling you his wife and life partner.

You leaned down to kiss his cheek before he wheeled himself down the hallway towards Mikasa and Jean’s place.

“Eren, slow down!” Mikasa called out, trying to keep up with her son who brandished a wooden sword with unrestrained zeal.

“He may be our kid, but he has Eren’s personality,” Jean sighed, shaking his head as you all stood on the porch. The boys were playing in the grass, with Mikasa attempting to bandage a fresh cut on Eren’s arm from a fall.

“Oh come on! I want to play with Harwin! We’re knights!” Eren protested, continuing to dodge his mother’s attempts to treat his wound.

“That brat has enough energy. I never knew how Mikasa did it,” Levi chuckled, maneuvering his wheelchair beside Jean.

Jean laughed. “What can I say? We’ll just have to keep that ambition in check.”

You rubbed your swollen belly, watching the children play with a fond gaze. These moments were precious.

There was nothing more rewarding than seeing the boys laugh and interact freely. All the fighting, all the sacrifices—it was all worth it.

“Well, I better start cooking. Annie and Armin will be here later,” Jean noted, glancing at his watch.

Levi nodded, his eyes still on the boys. “Let me know if you need any help.”

Jean waved as he headed towards the door. “Have fun, you two!” he called out before closing the door behind him, leaving you alone with Levi.

You turned to see Levi sitting calmly in his wheelchair. Walking over, you bent down to place a gentle kiss on the top of his head. “Do you think he’ll make a good knight?”

Levi looked up at you and smiled softly. “Of course, he will. That boy has more guts than anyone I’ve seen on this planet.”

A small grin spread across your face, warmed by the thought of your son growing strong like his father. You glanced back towards the house, watching as Eren fled from Harwin. “Maybe one day I’ll teach him some moves. He might need to learn some self-defense.”

You sighed and looked up at the sky, a soft breeze ruffling your hair and causing you to shiver slightly.

“Hey, Y/N…” Levi spoke softly, capturing your attention away from the sky. "You and the kids... are all I've ever wanted in my life."

Your eyes widened at his words. He rarely spoke so openly; heartfelt expressions were not his strongest suit.

His hand slowly moved up to hold yours, drawing your gaze back to his.

"I love you... and the kids. Even if I'm already tired of this one," you joked, pointing to your stomach.

His lips curled into a small smile.

That smile never failed to warm your cheeks and heart. Hearing such sentiments from him, knowing how rare they were, filled you with an immense feeling of love and gratitude.

The sensation of your child kicking inside you caused your cheeks to blush anew.

Levi's eyes softened at the sight of your blushing face. He leaned closer, his hand reaching for your stomach again.

"Don't forget your own promise, Y/N. I expect you to remember that, but please don't forget mine either," he murmured, stroking his thumb across your belly.

"We will always see it through," you promised.

"And I will never forgive myself if anything happened to you or Harwin. Please never think otherwise," he said, squeezing your hand tightly.

"I know. This is what we fought all those years for," you assured him.

"Definitely a life worth fighting for."

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Submit a request here

[rmstitanics]

me? infodumping about the Abraham Lincoln centric musical I’m writing? HELL YEAH HERE WE GO!

This project has been in development for the last several years, and I unabashedly adore it more than anything I’ve worked on before. So uh … you’re gonna get a preview of it in the form of snack pack sized facts whether you like it or not.

SUMMARY: “𝐖𝐈𝐓𝐇 𝐌𝐀𝐋𝐈𝐂𝐄 𝐓𝐎𝐖𝐀𝐑𝐃 𝐍𝐎𝐍𝐄: 𝐀 𝐍𝐄𝐖 𝐌𝐔𝐒𝐈𝐂𝐀𝐋” dives deep into the tortured psyche of Abraham Lincoln and tells the story of our Sixteenth President’s tumultuous years in office like it has never been told before.

Orchestrally, it holds the most similarities to Les Misérables, Hello Dolly, Newsies, and Anastasia. The narrative structure of the production is comparable to Evita, Jekyll and Hyde, and Hadestown.

this production will be A STUDY IN … the five stages of grief, leadership during turbulent times, the joys of fatherhood, spirituality and the occult, the quest to discover and establish one’s self-identity, courage in its many forms, collaboration between opposing personalities for the sake of the greater good, the transformation of a team to a brotherhood, legacy and the historical narrative, mental health, personal agency, and the horrors of war.

The musical is narrated by Robert Todd Lincoln, who in 1922 at the Lincoln Memorial’s dedication strives to clear away misconceptions regarding his father. Similar in archetypal design to Evita’s Che and Hadestown’s Hermes, he tells the musical’s story as a flashback, and has an omniscience granted to him by historical hindsight. He tells the story so that history won’t repeat itself and no matter how much he wishes to do so, it cannot be altered.

Although it certainly appears otherwise at first, there are no human antagonists within this storyline. William Henry Seward deceives the audience into believing that he is the antagonist during act one; however, this character arc is resolved by the development of his friendship with Lincoln. The real antagonists are the institution of slavery, the civil war itself, and Lincoln’s own depression.

Rather than the Gettysburg Address or Emancipation Proclamation, Willie Lincoln’s death is Act One’s final scene. This creative decision was made to highlight the show’s focus on mental health, and to render the Civil War an entirely personal affair. The last number of Act One offers the audience a glimpse into Lincoln’s personal struggle with the death of his son. In the timespan of a single musical number, he speedruns the Five Stages of Grief, eventually accepting that his son is dead and he must persevere through the pain. If he crumbles, more fathers will lose their sons.

The second part of Act Two’s opening number sheds light on Mary’s approach to the grieving process. Upon realizing that she became “so devoted to [our] political advancement” that she neglected her religious beliefs, Mary begins to wonder whether she was to blame for Willie’s demise. Robert briefly abandons his role as narrator to become Mary’s subconscious mind, poisoning her thoughts with the concept that Willie was struck down by a higher power as punishment for sinful behavior.

There are several musical numbers and scenes whereupon Abraham communicates with two versions of himself — version one being the nine year old Abe, and version two being the Abe that has just arrived in Springfield. From his younger selves, he seeks advice, reassurance, and listening ears.

That’s all the details you’ll get for now, folks! Feel free to reach out if you want to be part of the creative team for this show, or even just to suggest an idea.

[ashsmack]

Farewell, Toriyama

The year is 2012. Quite the eventful year, the London Olympics, Hurrican Sandy, Obama's re-election. None of which I cared about at the time though, I was just a midget 6 year old. What I did care about, though, was a box of magic one of my friends owned. To me, a source of endless wonder. To the rest of the world, a PS2.

Predictably enough, every time we visited his place, we would always be gaming, to the point that our parents would constantly be nagging us to go outside (some things never change), but the allure of these games kept me captivated. And yet, one game called to me like none other. I knew nothing about it, not the story, not the characters, nothing of the source material. This game was named 'DragonBall Budokai Tenkaichi 3' and little did I know, I was about to introduced to a universe which would go on to bring me unending joy for more than a decade to come.

Admittedly, discovering DB through one of the games isn't really recommended, probably one of the worst ways to get into it especially considering the spoilers and how confusing it gets. Despite all this, the scene where Goku faces off against Frieza, where he turns Super Saiyan for the first, gave me literal chills. I've watched this scene time and time again throughout the years and it has never once failed to fill me with awe. I ended up watching DB every day, after school for like the next 6 years. I watched the entirety of Dragon Ball, Dragon Ball Z, Dragon Ball Z Kai, Dragon Ball GT, and Dragon Ball Super, which I watched weekly until it ended around 2018. I've watched every DB movie till date, ending at DB Super Hero which I watched about October last year.

Having written all this out, it really does sound nuts. I started watching Dragon Ball at the itty bitty age of 6, and here I am today, writing this as I stand on the cusp of adulthood. 12 years DB has stayed with me. Like Goku (although without the weird Saiyan ageing), I've grown. I've made and lost friends. I've been stuck within my own shell, and I've broken free. I fought depression, and while depression fought back hard, here I am, at my best. Quite unlike any man, whether friend or family, DB has been there for me throughout. Whether it was entertainment I needed, or a distraction from my problems, there it was, as absurdly cringey and stupid as it sounds.

Over the years, DB has taught me many things. The immeasurable value of friendship for one. Another, is the way even proud Prince Vegeta redeemed himself, find himself married and now in fatherhood. The biggest lesson it taught me, however, was the power of determination. To never back down, to never just settle for what you think you're capable of, to always be working to surpass your limits. While ofcourse I never ended up with blonde hair, for me it helped me break out of my shell and start improving myself, something I will forever be thankful for.

While I don't claim to be the biggest DB superfan, the franchise holds an immeasurable, irreplaceable place in my heart.

As the news of Akira Toriyama's tragic passing reaches us today, I hope he knows that he has woven the fabric of countless childhoods, just like mine. His work and influence will never be forgotten, and his name will reside in all our hearts.

Rest in Peace, Akira Toriyama.

[prodigal-san]

PLEASE POT THE FIC !!!

Would Alastor want Lucifer to shove him kids too?? 👀👀

I’ll post it when it’s ready 😆 and well once Alastor discovers the joy of fatherhood, he’ll definitely want more brats of his own wink wonk 🤣