#greyson's path

[wxldhxrt]

Path of the Liberated Heart...

As the son of PAN, GREYSON'S life had indeed changed but not as much as he thought when he first came to camp. He was still waking up to feed the three cubs that now called him ‘momma’ and he was still stealing moments of tenderness with the son of DOINYSUS. But perhaps the biggest change was within him. With a flash of green he could now shift his bones and skins to wear that of an animal. He could harness the wild and animals of his father’s domain to become those very creatures he swore to protect. With this ability he was now able to protect those he loved, his pack and make sure nothing would ever get close enough to harming them.

Even if it meant putting his own life in danger.

His pack was curled up around him as GREYSON fell asleep that night. KALI, TARALI and MAISHA were curled up around the two humans in bed, Moss down by their feet holding a shiny rock in his arms. GREYSON'S head was on ENDER'S chest where it had been most nights since he watched his heart nearly fall to death twice, simply focusing on the lulling rise and fall of his chest letting it drift him off to sleep…

Dreams of tiger and leopard cubs playing and hunting. Woods around them as their growls were still small and playful. Lost in this dream at first GREYSON didn’t hear how the growls shifted into something deeper and less animalistic. Slowly as the volume grew louder and louder was the son of PAN able to pinpoint it; the heavy guitar and loud drums filling his dream picking up tempo. Bass guitar pulsating in his chest, his heart was vibrating with every chord that was strummed. The song was coming from inside him.

Louder. Faster. Louder. Faster.

The song grows, divinity calling out to him until the son of PAN no longer could ignore it. A sharp gasp escaping him, he opens his eyes to find that ENDER was no longer under him, the animals no longer surrounding him. A glance around was all it took for him to register that he was alone and packless…

WHEN GREY OPENS HIS EYES, WHAT DOES HE SEE? WHERE IS HE? PLEASE DESCRIBE IT.

When he woke with a start it took GREYSON a moment to recognise his surroundings. He was home, back in his apartment in New York or so he thought. The more he focused on the familiar walls and decore the more he noticed that it wasn't his apartment he'd woken up in, but his mothers, the very place he'd grown up.

Same beaten up old walls he'd drawn on as a child, then covered in posters into his teen years. Same slightly uncomfortable mattress with the faded star bedsheets and small desk holding a plethora of books on wildlife and biology. A small smile pulled at the corner of his lips to be back in the room that had once felt so safe before it had become so dark and lonely.

The more he looked beyond the happy memories, the darker ones seemed to reveal themselves as well. Beside the twisting vines and curling dragon scribbles on the wall there was a trail of dried blood - curtesy of his step father's fist when his stepbrother had revealed GREY had been kissing a boy at school.

At first he feels safe and happy to be back in that childhood home. All the happy moments flooding back into him. The moments he discovered his connection and passion for animals, the times with his mom and how she took him to zoos whenever he asked. Though soon those memories were clouded with darker ones, more recent ones. His mother getting sick, his step father's fist-- the blood on the wall was proof of that. A permanent reminder of that day he tries to forget; how a happy, carefree moment of simple kisses turned into one of anger and violence. GREYSON turns his head and as he does so out of the corner of his eye he spots a figure in the corner of his room.

It took him a moment to really notice that there was someone else in the room with him, eyes still drawn to the blood on the wall and the phantom pain it brought to his face remembering the beat down he'd taken to cause it. But when he finally caught that glimpse of movement a growl threatened to bubble up in the son of Pans throat - like a cornered animal, a predator who's territory had been invaded by some unwanted presence when he felt most vulnerable.

His heckles were raised, but they relaxed a little as the face came more clearly into view. It was one he wouldn't associate with the dull little apartment - such a space far beneath the luxury he was used to seeing the other man in.

"Adam? What are you doing here?" He asked with a frown, guard coming down only slightly because this was the last place he'd expect to see his ex and the last time he had seen him they hadn't ended things on the best of terms.

A chuckle rippled through the room as he stepped out of the shadow into the light coming through the window. Hands in his suit pocket, hair slicked back ADAM smiled at the son of PAN. Teeth on full display his tongue darted out to lick his canines in a predatory way. "Look at you growling like a little bitch. Always knew I should have collared you up when I had the chance." Dark eyes shifted around the room as if he was taking it all in for the first time. "This is where you grew up? No wonder you were so eager to beg for me and falling to your knees the moment we met like a cheap whore-- guess it's just second nature when you grew up with one, huh?"

He took in the sight of his ex, like nothing had changed and no time had passed. It wasn't an uncommon thing, Adam had always had this untouchability about him Grey had been drawn to in the beginning - the promise of better, of adventure and danger, things he'd found himself seeking without even fully knowing it. He'd been young, still in college, freshly stricken with grief and loss and feeling like he didn't fit into the world around him when they met. And here was this man with charm, money, influence, and interest turned into Greyson of all people.

But then the darkness had slowly shown itself. His growl only deepened at Adam's words, eyes darkening with anger. "You tried and it didn't fucking work did it. Couldn't tame the wild could you?" He snapped back.

A vulnerability struck the son of Pan as those eyes took in his childhood bedroom, seeing Greyson's meagre beginnings. "Shut up! You chased me! And I told you where I came from." He'd just never shown him, because Grey had been running from it the day his mother died.

"But didn't it work?" ADAM** said taking the last few steps to close the gap between them in that little room. Reaching out he brushed a strand of hair behind GREYSON'S ear letting his fingers brush along that small little AD tattoo. A brand of ownership. "Didn't need a collar or leash when I had this here, did I?" Catching the vulnerability when the son of PAN shouted at him only caused him to chuckle more. Always cocky and confident. It was how he attracted the sad puppy to him the moment they met. "I wanted you to think I chased you. It was all part of my plan. Sure you told me but, baby, I mean come on...really? This?" With a scoff he glanced once more around the room disgust on his face. "Not even a rat would live in a place like this." Dark eyes once more met GREY'S as the hand moved from behind his ear to cup his cheek. "You belong with me." To me.

He knew he should take a step back, put some distance between them, but pride wouldn't let him give an inch of ground or show weakness. He had to be strong, be brave, just like the dragon. That's what his mother always told him, that he could be, that he was her little dragon.

The touch to the small tattoo made Greyson shiver despite his resistance, such an old and familiar gesture, something Adam had done all the time in the years they'd been together. "Just an old scar, I've got more than a few of those." Grey brushed off, downplaying the ink and how it had permanently branded his skin. Just instead of it being the familiar white lines of cuts and scrapes, or the twisted mottled flesh of a burn it was decorative black lettering. Adam Darkwood. AD.

"Yeah well, rats lived here and I bore them until I could escape." Greyson growled, thinking of the abuse he'd taken from his stepfather and stepbrother over the years. His once safe and quiet home had become a lair for vermin in his mother's ill health. "So sorry it doesn't meet your high standards, but I never needed that life." He said brushing off the touch to his cheek, walking away just like he had before, exiting the old bedroom.

Please make a Dex safe either here or in your private channel

[ Greyson : Nat 1 ]

The son of PAN steps back ready to leave the room but before he can this vision of ADAM reaches out. A a strong hand grips around his wrist, tightly holding onto GREY and not letting him leave. "You are mine" he hisses out, voice crackling and his eyes lit up into an almost yellow. Before GREY can attempt to pull away once more a shock runs through his body from the touch to his wrist. Pain shooting up his nervous system. Greyson takes 4 lightning damage.

At the sudden grip to his wrist stopping him from leaving, Grey looked back in anger, about to attempt to wrench his wrist free from Adam's grip when he was suddenly shocked. He gasped out in surprise and pain from the electrifying grip, body seizing before he shook it off. "No I'm not!" He snarled back, his own eyes shimmering green with his magic before he attempted to pull himself free from the other's hold.

Roll me a strength check please

[ Greyson : 13 ]

Greyson is unable to pull away GREYSON tugs, an attempt to pull away but it seems that ADAM's grip is just a bit on the stronger side. It is as if he knows exactly how to keep his hold on GREYSON firm and strong. "Yes you are. I own you, little bitch. I branded you." His dark eyes shifted down to where he had the grip to the son of PAN's wrist and smiled. "Look even now you can't escape me." As GREYSON looks down he can see that sparked energy twisting and turning around his wrist connecting them together. As if they were shackled together.

Seeing the sparks start to shackle them together, his strength unable to pull himself free, Grey started to feel like a child all over again, like he had during the peak of Adam's manipulations when he'd lacked the courage to leave the first few times.

He'd never been able to stand up to his stepfather, taken the beatings that he'd been given instead of fighting back, weak and pathetic, only free because he'd been cast out the day his mother died. She'd barely been in the ground, tears hadn't even dried on Greyson's cheeks when he'd been told he had one hour to collect his stuff or it was going in the trash.

And he'd let it happen all over again, Adam's words of abuse almost as painful as his fists when they'd finally shown themselves. Too afraid to escape until he'd met Ender, someone who made him feel strong and brave like his mother had.

But he was a stronger person now, he had faced monsters and defied odds. He could transform into any beast he put his mind to, take on their strengths and power, summon the wild to his aid. He wasn't weak anymore. Maybe he could finally become the dragon his mother always said he was.

"I'm not weak anymore! Not yours either and if you don't release me I'll tear you to fucking shreds and devour you with my beasts." He snarled, voice more of a growl like his animal nature as his eyes grew brighter green, summoning his magic - the orbs of the fey spirits swirling around ready to take form at Greyson's command.

Roll for me spell casting at advantage

[ Greyson : 22 ]

Green light began to shine and shift around him in the familiar way that was his magic. Bones in his body began to creak and crack as it shifted from human to animal. The feeling was not new to GREYSON, not since he arrived at camp but yet at the same time this shift didn't feel like it normally did. Not like when he was shifting into a tiger to play with KALI and her siblings, nor when he became a dire wolf to lead his wolves into battle. It felt bigger...stronger... "I'm not weak anymore! Not yours either and if you don't release me I'll tear you to fucking shreds and devour you with my beasts." His voice was a growl, a snarl as he spoke at ADAM watching as the man lets go and takes a step back in fear. A sight that GREYSON had never seen on the man in the years they were dating. Not even when GREYSON told him it was over, not even when his roommate threatened him with a shovel had ADAM ever let GREY see this look on his face. And yet there he was staring at his ex in utter fear. "Y-you--" He started to stutter out, taking another step back bumping into the wall behind him. As he moves back GREYSON takes a step forward feeling empowered and gets a glimpse of himself in the mirror next to him. Green scales is what catches his eye first, covering his arms, legs and body as they shimmer and glint in the light from the window.. The sharp talons and fangs is what registers next for him and right as it all clicks into place a soft soothing voice enters his head: "There he is. There is my, little dragon."

The power felt different more intense, like nothing he'd experienced before. But seeing the fear in Adam's eyes was everything to Greyson. He'd never experienced it before, finally making Adam feel as small and powerless as he'd made Grey feel.

But it was when he caught sight of himself, heard that soft and soothing voice in his head, that he truly felt powerful - more powerful than he'd ever felt. Shimmering bronze and green scales, proud horns, wings that crowded the entire tiny room, claws that felt as though they had the power to tear through the bricks and free himself from this manmade cage.

Is this what you saw in me mom? Is this my true potential? He wanted so desperately to ask her in person, to know that he'd made her proud. Glowing jade eyes stared down at Adam in front of him - voice a deep terrible roar like thunder. THIS IS WHAT I HAVE ALWAYS BEEN, SLEEPING, GROWING. YOU ARE NOTHING BUT A MOUSE IN MY WAY.

He reared his head back, feeling the building of power in his chest as it seemed to race up his throat, breath held to unleash devastation.

Roll a 1d2

[ Greyson : 1 ]

As GREYSON grew into this shape it seemed that the room around him grew as well, stretching to fit the massive beast that was now inside it. It was still small and a bit claustrophobic but it allowed this bronze and green dragon to fit within it's walls. ADAM opened his mouth, ready to speak to try to make himself not look so scared and nervous but before he could GREYSON'S breath unleashed destruction upon him. Flames flickering with lightening engulfed him causing the man to scream out in agony. His skin slowly to peal away from his body turning into ash until all that was left was a pile of bones lying where ADAM once was.

Watching Adam disappear into a pile of ash and bones left Greyson feeling like a weight had been lifted from his chest that he hadn't realised he'd been carrying. Bright eyes blinked, as if still not quite able to believe that it was over. He turned to look at himself more fully, admiring the shimmering scales before his eyes zeroed in on the collection of green amongst the bronze, wrapping and winding their way around his left shoulder.

As Greyson looked closer the green scales seemed to take shape, showing a faint hint of the tattoo in their colouring. The first tattoo he'd ever gotten at 17 when his mother had first gotten sick. The coiling shape of a dragon always sitting on his shoulder, her tribute forever inked into his skin and now painted in his scales.

You're always with me momma, in that ink, in my heart. I hope I make you proud, trying to save the world. Even if there are people in it that don't deserve to be saved.

The shackles around his heart feel like they have been released when GREY looks at ADAM's bones and ashes. As if he had never been really free until this moment. He was no longer burdened with the past of his abusive ex, no longer tied down to a man with his initials behind his ear. He was free and he would never forget that. As he glances in the mirror taking in the new shape his body has shifted into he spots behind him a figure he hadn't seen in years. Long brown hair pulled up into a mess bun, a soft sage green sundress and a warm smile that rivaled the sun. "My baby," her voice was as soft as she was as her eyes looked over him. "You have always made me so proud. Never once have you disappointed me." She takes a few steps closer to him and rests her forehead against the closest part of him in this dragon shape. "My little dragon, so strong and brave. If anyone can save the world it is you."

At the first hint of movement behind him, Greyson almost growled defensively until he saw that all too familiar mess of brown hair, the spitting image of his own. Her scent was so familiar to him, warm like the sun, fresh like the woodlands on a crisp morning dew. But it had been years that he'd almost forgotten it, just the ghost of it remaining in his mind. But now it was here - she was here.

A low whine of heartache rumbled in the dragon's chest as he felt her gentle touch to his scales, one wing instantly wrapping around her to pull her close and keep her safe.

It's been so hard without you momma, I've made so many poor choices, fucked up in so many ways...but I've done some good too, every animal I've cared for has thrived, I've been giving this demigod thing my all...Please don't leave me, it's so much harder without you there....I need you.

He pleaded, heart aching to change the truth of the matter. April Darcy was long gone and laid to rest. But with all this magic in the world, all this magic in himself - why did she have to stay gone? Surely he could change it.

A soft giggle escaped APRIL when the wing wrapped around her. It was a sound that often filled their home as GREYSON grew up. Curling into him, the woman sighed. "I know it is, baby and I am so sorry that I had to leave you like that. I never wanted to but I knew you wold be okay. Look at you, look how strong you have grown." A turn of her head and she pressed a soft kiss to his scales, aiming right where his heart would be under this new skin of his. APRIL didn't try to deny the fact she would have to leave, they both knew how this world worked. How she was just a fragment of his memory and divinity, how the real her was gone but that didn't mean this moment didn't feel real to the both of them. A mother and son reuniting. "Come let us sleep, you need to rest after fighting so hard." Watching as GREYSON shift back into a human, she smiled at the changes, even letting her fingers trace the dragon he had gotten tattooed on his shoulder. Tugging him back to the old uncomfortable mattress it was her turn to tuck GREYSON into her arms like he was a child once more. Hand reaching up she petted at his brown curls that matched her own and began to sing softly, lulling him to sleep. "For once so small you seem so strong...my arms will hold you, keep you safe and warm..." GREYSON finds himself lulled to sleep, that safe feeling he hasn't felt since APRIL last held him soothing him. The last thing he hears before sleep takes over him is her singing just like she used to every night after GREYSON had discovered the Tarzan movie. When he wakes he is no longer back in that room but curled up on top of ENDER'S chest just like how he had been when he fell asleep. The cubs has shifted in their sleep but were still curled up around them. Raising his head to count them all GREYSON once again spots something in the mirror but it's not a figure or scales this time. No it's a small change that perhaps only him and a few others would ever catch. His tattoo behind his ear no longer reads AD but GD. He belonged to no one, now, but himself.

[wingedshadowfan]

someone on twt just brought up the fact that caitlyn doesn't actually care abt being an enforcer - it was just a path she followed bcuz she believed it would enable her to do some good in the world (and in this goal of hers, she's no different than jayce and viktor in the beginning). she'd always been good at shooting and this was what she was shooting for, in the words of greyson.

after the progress day attack which injures caitlyn, she's obsessed with solving the mystery, but jayce basically tells her her family got her fired from her job. she's not an enforcer anymore, which means she easily could've just sat back down to recover and not moved a finger abt it, and taken an easier job. hell, she probably has the money to never have to work again. he offers her a desk job (still as an enforcer, just security i believe) instead and she hates that idea precisely bcuz she won't be able to get out there, protect others and solve crime cases. she doesn't want to be kept safe, she wants to see the real world and to be able to affect it, she wants agency and to drive positive change.

this also means everything she does afterwards like continuing her investigation, getting vi out of prison in the capacity of an enforcer who has councilor jayce's signature, running around the undercity with her, saving her, attempting to bring the hex gemstones back to piltover w/(out) ekko, she did illegally, by choice, and out of the good of her own heart.

[strwbrychffoncke]

"walking in a winter wonderland,, 3.1k words synopsis: an evening date w doctor zayne leads to a stroll through the winter snowfall of linkon contains: zayne x reader (afab reader in mind but theres close to no phys desc tbh) ,fluff fluff fluff fluff fluffff ,petnames (reader is called 'miss hunter' twice) ,playful bantering ,(attempts at) zayne dry humor ,keeping zaynes sweet tooth in check ,cute stroll in the snow ,looots of hand holding ,snowman moment ,kisses ,suggestive ending ,that's all i can think of rn :x note: i meant to release this like last wk but the writing was not writing.... i literally had to stop myself from writing for raf or greyson instead bc i said id release zayne help.. this is like an accumulation of five diff drafts into one so i hope it came out well?? please enjoy....

quiet.

it's quiet in the early evening when you step out of your apartment, sighting zayne's car parked right out front, said man promptly exiting the drivers side in favor of making his way to the passenger door as you walk the short path towards him.

he's clad in casual slacks, a turtleneck sweater and his dark trench coat, offering a small smile as you close the short distance before opening the car door for you.

"are you my driver for tonight?"

his eyes glint with playfulness.

"ive come to retrieve a miss hunter for the night. might that be you?"

you giggle.

"my chauffeur bares a striking resemblance to a certain renowned doctor zayne." you take a step closer. "do you know him?" you tilt your head in question, a questioning look adorning your face.

he takes your hand in his.

"i have no idea who you're talking about."

you feign a pout.

"well, i happen to be quite close with him."

"is that so?"

"yeah," you nod, looking off to the side, bringing your pointer finger to the corner of your lips before continuing.

"—so, im not so sure he would appreciate a stranger holding my hand..." you trail off, slowly beginning to slip your trapped hand out of his grasp, only for him to tighten his hold.

"well..."

he pulls it up to his lips.

"i'm zayne. it's a good thing that i'm no stranger" he emphasizes the last word, planting a soft kiss on the back of your hand, gaze holding yours while he does so.

you laugh again, heart full at the gesture.

a small smile pulls at his lips again at the sound before he helps you inside the car (not that you really need it, but as a gesture of his love for you, you allow him to treat you like a princess).

once he's situated back in the drivers side beginning to take off, you prompt him.

"so, where are we headed this evening, doctor?"

"that, is a secret" he answers simply.

you put on a thoughtful expression.

"hmm... are you sure you're not kidnapping me?"

a playful smirk ghosts his lips.

"it seems you've found yourself in quite the predicament haven't you, miss hunter?"

before you can respond, he reaches for your hand again, gripping it firmly.

"how will you escape?"

you hum in thought for a moment before turning your head to fully look at him.

"i'm not so sure that i want to."

the car stops at a red light, and he takes the opportunity to meet your gaze.

"good," his smirk fully stretches across his face now. "i wasn't planning on letting you go anyway."

-

the place in question turned out to be your favorite restaurant.

given the season, both the interior and exterior were decorated with colorful festive lights with cute winter themed decals hanging on the long windows.

(when you pointed out a cute snowman and asked zayne why they had a decal of him, he shot back that despite how it looked, you were as cold to the touch as a snowman before wrapping his scarf around you).

for the time, the restaurant was surprisingly not too busy, granting a cozy atmosphere in the dim lights, a pretty candle lighting up your table for two with small decorations of snow-covered trees in the center.

after pleasant conversation, hushed laughs and plenty of playful bantering over dinner, you advised against zayne ordering any dessert in favor of checking out a new cafe that had recently opened nearby.

(and that just so happened to be a source of both you and zayne's curiosity, but you each unknowingly refrained from visiting on your own in favor of trying it for the first time together).

at the sound of dessert, zayne was quick to pay for the meal (shutting down any argument you may have had at splitting the bill with a simple "nonsense" as he handed his card to the waitress) before ushering you out in what appeared to be haste but you knew was excitement, grasping your hand and walking the short distance through the cold towards the cafe.

-

the little jingle of the bell above the door is light as zayne opens it for you, hand on the small of your back as he leads you in first before following close behind you.

you're welcomed by the cheery voice of the cashier before you both take a look around.

upon entry, there's small shelves to the right of the entrance featuring different types of freshly baked and individually wrapped breads, more shelves against the rightmost wall that feature things from cookies to tarts to even small cakes in a cooler right beside them, and small counters in the center of the floor with featured seasonal items that are cutely displayed around a small christmas tree. to the left of the place is a small seating area, and straight ahead is a large hanging menu behind the cashier with drink options, among other made-to-order desserts.

there don't seem to be many customers at this hour aside from you and zayne, a couple of guests enjoying their desserts at the seating area and one browsing the options. the atmosphere is homey and welcoming, the scents of everything making the place smell absolutely divine.

after taking everything in, you and zayne begin browsing around at the various options displayed, taking a look at what they have and coming up with ideas of what you'd like to get.

as you slowly eye each shelf, carefully surveying every option, you try your best to settle on only two things while simultaneously trying to rationalize buying more because they look too good, there's no way you won't eat them all!

wanting a momentary respite from your inner turmoil, you take a peek at zayne only to let out an amused laugh at his troubled expression, already knowing the inward struggle he must be facing.

even so, you walk up to him, a teasing smile painting your lips.

"have you decided what you'll be getting, doctor?"

he doesn't answer right away, standing at a spot close by the register as he stares between the rows of displayed strawberry desserts, eyes deeply concentrated, a loosely clenched hand held up just under his lips in thought.

"hmm..."

you take a step closer to the display case, one of the various cakes catching your attention.

"oooh, that one looks sooo good!"

zayne looks up at the cashier behind the counter.

"how much for one of everything?"

the cashier visibly startles at the inquiry.

"sorry?"

"zayne!"

at the sound of his name, he looks down at you.

"is something the matter?"

"you are not buying one of everything."

the way his expression morphs from serious to genuinely perplexed is so comical you almost let a laugh slip through your pointed façade.

"why not?" the tone of his voice comes out almost sad.

"because," you take a step closer to him this time. "that's way too much sugar for just one person!"

"the last time i checked, i didn't come into this building alone, did i?"

"that's-"

the cashier, a witness to the bantering, smiles to herself before deciding to speak up again.

"please let me know if you need any help!"

suddenly remembering the audience of one, you feel embarrassed, giving a short nod and a sheepish "thank you" before she goes to check on nearby displays, removing some or rearranging other various sweets.

zayne's attention is still on you.

"well?"

you blink.

"what?"

"surely the both of us can-"

"zayne, i am not letting you buy one of every dessert in here."

the rest of his words die on his lips, and he frowns.

"have it your way."

knowing he would deny it to all hell, you decide against pointing out the very dejected pout he wears in response to your declaration as he goes back to browsing the shelves, the serious look in his eyes returning as he internally struggles to narrow down what he'd like.

. . .

in the end, you settled on the idea of each buying three desserts you wanted to try the most (since their opening special of buy two get one free was active) and sharing them with each other so that you could both have a taste of more items.

(despite this, zayne still picked a total of six items, claiming that the prices were quite exceptional, and that it was "okay to indulge every once in awhile." before you could protest, he had already paid and made his way to a nearby table, wordlessly expecting you to follow).

and though you didn't want to feed into his satisfaction, you had to agree that the amount of desserts he had picked was justified as those turned out to be your favorites (and he quickly finished his other options, only after allowing you a taste first).

. . .

by the time you both exited the bakery, you're met with the sight of snow, ground crunching beneath you as the delicate snowflakes continue their pleasant descent before piling onto the ground.

your eyes are wide, excitement glimmering within them, even when the cold flakes sprinkling over you draw out a shiver from you.

"look zayne, it's snowing!"

"indeed."

his lips curl up, but he's not looking at the snow.

instead, he's gazing at you, a fond adoration in his eyes as he stares at your expression.

you are so precious to him.

before he can suggest getting you out of the cold, you grab his hand, gazing at him.

"let's walk around!"

"and let you catch a cold?" he raises an eyebrow.

you playfully scoff.

"i'll have you know, my immune system is amazing!" you defend.

he offers an unimpressed look.

"i suppose that explains why i had to nurse you back to health the last time you were out in the cold, then?"

"come on, please??? just for a little bit!"

when you beg like that, looking the way that you do, he feels himself weaken.

he never had any intention of denying you of your wishes, anyway.

"alright." he nods.

you let out a small cheer in triumph.

"but..."

he removes a pair of mittens from his coat pocket, handing one of them to you.

"since someone didn't think to bring their own."

you pout but take it from him.

"yeah? and what about my other hand??" you tease, slipping the oversized glove on one hand before holding your other one up and wriggling your fingers to emphasize your point.

wordlessly, he takes a hold of it, pausing your movements in the process as he pulls it towards his lips to blow warm air onto it, never breaking eye contact with you.

"i'll just have to ensure you stay warm another way. "

he lowers your hand still in his, properly intertwining his fingers with yours.

his voice lowers.

"dont let go."

then he leans close to your ear, whispering.

"doctor's orders."

his voice comes out in a deep rumble, almost commanding, your heart fluttering helplessly at the tone.

feeling shy, you aren't given a chance to respond before he begins leading you down the sidewalk, taking in the scenery of the decorative lights encasing almost every nearby building or tree, casting a light glow over the ever falling snow.

though for awhile, your attention is more focused on your intertwined hands and zayne's handsome face than the scenery before you both.

-

eventually reaching an open area, you quickly take note of the amount of snow piled on the ground, breaking away from zayne's hold, telling him that "a snowman is just asking to be created here!"

he watches in amusement as you scurry around, rolling the snow into three big balls before piling them onto each other and then searching for anything that can be used to create a face.

after several minutes, you take a couple of steps back, excitedly revealing the finished product to zayne.

"ta-da!"

he stares at the snowman who seems to be staring right back at him.

"pfft.... zayne-"

"is that... supposed to be me?"

the snowman in question resembles the various snowmen plushies you have piled at home who, you've joked, resemble zayne quite well, and "are so warm and cozy to cuddle when you're away on business or have a late shift at the hospital, you know!" according to you.

except, for this particular snowman, you've wrapped a scarf around its neck— the same scarf zayne wrapped around yours earlier— granting it his style as well.

zayne lets out a sigh before walking up to the snowman, reaching out to grab the scarf before you stop him.

"wait! a picture- i have to take a picture first!"

you fish into your pocket with your ungloved, trembling hand (almost numb from the cold and playing in the snow) as zayne pauses, turning to you and watching you struggle with a deadpan expression.

"if we stay out here any longer, your hand might end up falling off."

you manage to pull your phone out, opening it to the camera app.

"good thing i have a surgeon who can easily reattach it for me~!"

he sighs again.

"take it quickly."

you face the camera to zayne and the snowman, taking a photo of them side-by-side before stepping closer and taking one of all three of you, posing cutely while zayne stares unamused the entire time.

"ok, got it! lets go now-"

as you lower your arm, your phone slips from your shivering grasp and into the plush snow below.

before you can go to retrieve it, zayne leans down, plucking it out, wiping it with his coat before placing it back into your pocket for you.

"thank you," you breathe out, a grateful smile stretching across your lips.

he suddenly leans closer to you, causing your breath to hitch.

"you've got snow..."

his hand reaches up, brushing snow from the top of your head.

he moves his hand down the side of your face, lingering there for a moment before cupping your cheek.

"zayne?"

even when you're freezing like this, you look ethereal under the snowflakes that continue to dance around you, hair a little messy from the chilly wind, eyes shining from the decorative lights nearby, parted lips slightly chapped from the cold and breaths visible thanks to the chill.

he suddenly leans forward, lips easily melding with yours.

words are never needed when everything zayne wishes to say is relayed in his kiss: deep in the way that he loves you, sweet from the desserts you'd shared, loving in his loyalty to you, passionate in that you were his, and he was yours.

in this moment, under the glittered night sky, snowflakes catching in your hair and clothes, surrounded by the soft lights of the festive city, you and zayne seemed to be lost in your own personal winter wonderland reserved for two.

he breaks the kiss shortly, grasping your cold hand in his once more.

"you've had your fun. let's get you someplace warm."

you blink up at him, speechless from the kiss and offering a nod instead, allowing him to quickly lead you back to the car.

he situates you in first before slipping into the drivers seat, quickly turning on the car and clicking the heater on. while it slowly starts up, he retrieves his scarf from his coat (that you didn't see him nab from his snowman-self) and wraps it around your hands.

"to warm them up quicker," he reasons.

"oh? are you sure this isn't your way of restraining me from escaping back into the snow?"

he puts the car in drive before he goes to respond.

"if i had been concerned about that, i assure you i would have tied your hands securely."

wanting to push him some more, you wriggle a hand out from the scarf.

"it appears im free~ what will you do if i try to escape?"

in a single motion, your hand is enveloped by his, holding it down against the small glove box between your seats.

"this."

you wriggle your fingers playfully as you feign trying to escape, only causing his grip to tighten slightly.

"stay still," he speaks softly, yet again in that commanding voice that urges you to comply.

"or are you that eager to learn how surgeons tie knots?"

-

when you both return home (to zaynes place, under his insistence that it was closer, and you loved any excuse to spend more time with him), zayne almost immediately goes to start the flames of the fireplace after shedding you both of your snow covered coats, leading you to sit comfortably in front of it first.

"feel better?"

"yes," you sigh in relief, hands held out towards the flames. "i didn't realize how cold i really was!"

"well, i imagine standing out in the cold and playing in the snow will do that to you. "

you huff out a breath at his response, laying down on the fluffy carpet, peering at him upside-down.

"there's nothing wrong with having a little fun," you refute.

looking at you splayed out in his home like this— light of the dancing flames setting a pretty glow along your figure, hair spread out under you, expression playful from your remark yet satisfied from the warmth, shirt riding up slightly to reveal some of your midriff— along with all of the teasing remarks tonight finally catches up with him, his demeanor changing into something a little darker as he closes the distance, taking the spot beside you.

"but there is something wrong with disobedience."

"huh?" you blink at the man now beside you in question.

"zayne, what-"

he grabs your hand (still held out towards the flames), pinning it down and shifting himself so he's half hovering over you.

"well, when a patient doesn't follow doctors orders, they'll have to pay the price."

you feel your face heating up from the growing tension.

"what are you-"

he squeezes the hand he's holding down.

"you let go of my hand earlier."

"that's-"

your eyes widen in realization.

he suddenly leans down, planting a kiss right atop your pulse point, causing the rest of your words to die on your lips.

"it seems i have to discipline a certain naughty patient who has a streak of disobeying professional orders."

he crashes his lips onto yours in a hungry kiss that you can't help but to completely submit to.

and true to his word, the fireplace was not the only thing warming your bodies in the face of the worsening blizzard outside, breaths mingling with one another in the comfort of the living room, both escaping to your own world for two, pleasure overflowing between the both of you.

after all, the doctor couldn't have you getting sick on his watch, could he?

-

a/n: this took way longer than i thought but once i got the sequence of events in order it slowly started to come together.... js yday the draft was at 1.3k words now the number is flipped.... i love my doctor zayne what can i say :x

*mostly edited but i edit late at night so ill check over for any errors again later*

i could not for the life of me figure out the "proper" word for the storage box between the front seats of a car so its called a glove box pls spare me....

[amaranthine-nostalgia]

Bleeding Gold

"They told me: "One day you are going to become a star."

And I tell them: I am already a star.

I am made of

tragedy.

I bleed gold.

And I only shine in Darkness."

Royla Asghar

It was an easy choice, especially when faced with Bruce’s bad choices and self-destructive tendencies. Jason, his Robin, never would have stood for that. He was good like that, firm in his belief of good and bad.

That’s not to say he saw the world in black and white alone. No, Jason Todd saw the world in shades of grey. He had grown up on the streets, done and seen terrible things so that he might live. So, he would be a hypocrite to shame those like him. He had allowed those experiences to shape him, to turn him into a hero for everyone, even if it meant ignoring a man stealing for his family.

By extension, it had shaped Timothy Drake. While he hadn’t lived in the streets, he did have plenty of experience in navigating them. After all, he had been a small child when he realized who Robin and Batman were.

Dick Greyson was the only individual left alive who could do a quadruple flip.

From there, putting the puzzle together had been a piece of cake. However, that’s not to say that anyone could have figured out.

Timothy Jackson Drake was a child with unlimited internet access and a perfect memory. He was a child who knew how to talk before he could run.

For him, everything came easy. Whether it be languages, martial arts, etiquette, math, computer hacking, etc., it came easy. Rarely did something need to be shown to him more than once.

No doubt, it was something his parents loved for a multitude of reasons. For one, it meant they continued to keep up appearances. Having a child prodigy never failed to make them look good, and it was something they craved. Jack and Janet were prideful, and having a child such as him only exasperated that pride. Unfortunately, it was never enough to make them stay or take him with them.

It was a bitter truth he had long since expected. His knowledge and maturity had made it easy to be left behind. At first, he had hated it, hated that he was neglected because of who he was. So, for some time, he had let his grades slip, not by much, only a letter grade. The verbal lashing they had given proved that they would never change. Since then, he hasn’t let his grades slip beyond 95%. As long as that was the case, they were happy.

They were happy and gone, which gave him the freedom that most children never had. 

It meant that he could wander the streets of Gotham with a wild abandon. So he picked up a camera and began following his heroes. He had attended enough martial arts classes and gymnasiums to have confidence in his ability to remain hidden and protect himself if needed.

He had chosen that path and remained on it. Even when he went from solving cases in his room to solving cases in the Batcave, he remained firm. Even when Jason tried to attack him in the tower, he never deviated from his course. No half-assed violent hissy fits from a Lazarus pit mad child could put him out of commission. He had training from Lady Shiva and his mother. They would kill him if they ever let someone like him win. Red Hood was just so.. predictable… He clearly had a buff with Batman, Nightwing, and the Joker. He also had an obsession with Crime Alley, which manifested itself in the need to eradicate trafficking and monitor the drug trade. No doubt he wanted to establish himself as a crime lord.

He succeeded, and Tim didn’t doubt it for a second. There was very little a former Robin couldn’t do.

It was something he knew and breathed in himself.

There were so many things he was capable of, so many terrible things he had succeeded in doing. His name was Red Robin for a reason. His hands were stained red, even if it was no longer visible. 

Tim can see it everywhere, can feel the weight of his actions and inactions. Being hated for what he did and what he didn’t do is quite a contradiction. It makes for a miserable life, one where he can never win.

It’s okay, though, because Timothy Jackson Drake was not created to fail. He was created to soar, to be a beacon of pride to carry on his parent’s legacy, even if he wasn’t quite expected. Over and over again, he has walked along a tightrope, appeasing the expectations of his family and his desires.

His life has been whole and happy, all things considered. It’s part of the reason he doesn’t have a grappling hook. He’s always known that dancing with Ra’s Al Ghul would spell his death. At least this way, he had one last victory over the man.

He closed his eyes.

Finally, there is peace.

[leiuvr]

BOUND BY FIRE | SYLUS LOVE AND DEEPSPACE, COMPLETED (M) | CHAPTER 14

Chapter Synopsis: Years after the harrowing events in the ruins, a sense of tranquility has settled over Luna. The echoes of past battles have faded, replaced by the gentle rhythm of university life. Graduation day arrives, a symbol of hard-won normalcy and healing.

Word count: Approx. 1,346 words

CHAPTER 14: BEYOND THE TRAGEDY

Years had passed, a gentle current carrying Luna through the ebb and flow of life. The echoes of the ruins, the lingering shadows of Elias, had faded, replaced by the warmth of sunlight and the quiet hum of normalcy. The university, once a battleground of ancient magic and hidden agendas, had become a haven of learning, a place where Luna could finally pursue her own path.

Today was graduation day, a milestone marking the culmination of years of study, of self-discovery, of healing. The grand hall of the university buzzed will be filled with excitement, the air thick with anticipation. She had built a life for herself, a life filled with friends, with laughter, with the quiet joy of everyday moments. Greyson, the ever loyal friend, had become a constant presence, his unwavering support a beacon of stability in her ever-changing world. 

And then there was Sylus.

He had become her anchor, her confidant, her partner in every sense of the word. They had navigated the complexities of their bond, the lingering shadows of their past, together. They had learned to trust, to communicate, to build a future on the foundation of their shared experiences.

Today was also a day of firsts. Luna's family, finally ready to meet the man who held her heart, had come to celebrate her graduation. They had heard stories, whispered tales of the man who had claimed their daughter’s affections, but they remained blissfully unaware of the dragon that resided within him and the sorcery runs in Luna’s veins. They gathered in Sylus’ penthouse that was once deprived of life, now full of laughter and genuine happiness.

A gentle knock sounded on the door, and Luna’s heart skipped a beat with excitement.. "Come in," she called out, her voice slightly breathless.

The door opened, revealing her parents, their faces etched with a mixture of pride and appreciation. Her mother, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears, rushed forward, embracing Luna in a warm, comforting hug.

"My darling girl," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. "I’m so proud of you."

Her father, his eyes filled with a quiet admiration, stepped forward, offering a firm embrace. "You’ve worked hard, Luna," he said, his voice gruff with emotion. "You’ve earned this."

Luna smiled, her heart swelling with love. She had longed for this moment. "There’s someone I’d like you to meet," she said, her voice laced with a nervous excitement.

Sylus stood, his tall figure radiating an aura of quiet power. He wore a light colored suit, a stark contrast to his usual attire. Luna presented him as a successful entrepreneur, his charm masking the ancient power that resided within.

Luna’s parents exchanged a nervous glance, their eyes widening slightly as they took in his imposing presence. Sylus, sensing their apprehension, offered a warm, genuine smile.

"It’s a pleasure to finally meet you," he said, his voice low and sincere. "Luna has told me so much about you."

Her parents hesitated for a moment, then, seeing the genuine warmth in his eyes, they relaxed. Her father offered a nod of acknowledgment, and her mother, her eyes filled with welcome, offered a warm smile.

"What a striking demeanor! It’s a pleasure to meet you too, Sylus." her mother replied, her voice soft. "Luna speaks very highly of you."

They talked, sharing stories, laughing, bridging the gap of missed days of not being together. Luna smiled at the view, her heart filled with a profound sense of peace.

Once the ceremony began, the grand hall filled with the sounds of applause and celebration. Luna walked across the stage, her head held high, her eyes filled with a quiet confidence. She had faced her demons, conquered her fears, and emerged stronger, wiser, more complete.

When it was time for the valedictory speech, Luna stepped up to the podium. The hall quieted, all eyes fixed on her.  

"Honored guests, respected faculty, proud parents, and my fellow graduates…" she began, her voice clear and resonant. "This is the moment we’ve all waited for—the day we step forward, diploma in hand, and say, ‘We made it.’ But let’s be honest: It wasn’t easy. School challenged us in ways we never expected. It demanded more from us than we thought we could give. And sometimes, it felt like we were fighting battles no one else could see."

Sylus watched her from his seat, his eyes fixed on her, a silent observer of her strength, her grace. He saw the flicker of a small smile on her lips, but he also sensed the weight in her voice, a weight that only he could truly understand.

"We studied late into the night, trying to make sense of complex ideas. Some lessons came naturally, while others felt impossible, like they weren’t meant for us to understand. There were times we questioned ourselves, doubted if we belonged here at all. We felt lost. Like we were searching for something, even if we didn’t know what it was."

Sylus' thoughts drifted to their shared past, the trials they had faced, the battles they had fought. He knew the depths of her struggles, the shadows that had haunted her, the doubts that had plagued her. He saw her eyes flick briefly towards him, her meaning hidden in plain sight, a silent acknowledgment of their shared journey.

"And then… there were the moments that changed everything," she continued, her voice filled with a subtle shift in tone. A hush settled over the audience, drawn in by the intensity of her words.

"The moments that shook us awake. The ones that burned into our memories forever. A single decision, a single truth uncovered, a single person stepping into our lives at just the right time. Maybe it was a friend or someone very dear who stood by us when we couldn’t stand on our own. Maybe it was a challenge that forced us to rise to meet it. Or maybe—just maybe—it was something that felt impossible, something that should never have existed, but somehow… it was real."

Sylus' heart pounded in his chest, knowing that she was speaking to him, weaving their shared history into her words. He knew the weight of her heart, the emotions she kept hidden.

"And through all of it, we learned something. That even when we felt like giving up, we didn’t. That even when we thought we were alone, we weren’t. That even when the world tried to tell us who we were supposed to be, we had the power to decide for ourselves."

A slow breath. A quiet moment. And then—

"So today, as we walk across this stage, we are not just students collecting a diploma. We are proof that change is possible. That bonds, no matter how improbable, no matter how tested, can survive. That even the most stubborn, lost, and reckless of us"—A pause. A steady glance at the red eyes that had never left her—“can find our way."

"To my fellow graduates—may we step forward with courage, knowing that what we have fought for, what we have learned, and who we have become will guide us. And to those who walked beside us, who saw us even when we couldn’t see ourselves… Thank you. We made it."

The hall erupted in applause, but as Luna stepped back, her heart raced for a different reason. The speech may be over, but some things—some words—were never meant for the stage. Some things were meant to be said in the quiet, in the spaces between history and the future, between two souls who had already found each other in every lifetime before this one.

As she received her diploma, she glanced towards the audience, her eyes meeting Sylus'. He smiled, his eyes filled with a love that transcended time and space, a love her parents perceived as a deep human connection.

The future stretched before her, a tapestry of possibilities. She knew there would be challenges, that life would continue to throw curveballs. But she also knew that she was not alone. She had Sylus, her family, her friends, her own inner strength.

[simslegacy5083]

Today's (5/6/2025) Episode: A Big Decision

In the wake of learning about her new status as an Aunt Betty presented xir friend with her plan to help xem with xir parenthood dilemma “Skye, I’ve got a crazy idea” she said, waiting until she had xir full attention to continue “but hear me out. What if I was your egg donor?”

Sky’s mouth dropped open in surprise as she barreled on. “You said you didn’t like the idea of an anonymous donor because you only knew what they’d told the clinic, and you couldn’t learn more easily if you needed to. That won’t be a problem with me; our families have been close forever.”

She patted xir hand. “I understand the baby will be yours and Elyse’s and I’m totally onboard with that. I know how much you want to be a parent, and that you’re going to love the dickens out of our baby. You’ve always been such a good friend to me, I’d love to do this for you, and for Elyse.”

“Betty I… I don’t know what to say” Skye finally responded, tears springing to xir eyes “This is the nicest thing anyone has ever offered to do for me.”

“I’d say don’t look a gift horse in the mouth” she grinned, eliciting a laugh from her friend.

“Well, as far as that goes, we'll definitely owe you a HUGE gift for doing this.” xe finally managed, smiling. “Seriously, I’ll have to talk to Elyse, and you should probably talk to Greyson, but if everyone is onboard then the answer is yes, I’d be honored. Thank you!”

“Betty!?” Elyse said, as shocked as Skye had been when he called that evening to propose the new plan. “I don’t know Skye. Both of you are so fair skinned compared to me, and she’s got that red hair… I was hoping to find someone with my complexion, so our baby would look a bit like my child too.”

“That would be nice.” Skye agreed “But Elyse, the clinic needs an answer soon. Peppino is traveling in special to perform the procedure himself. I guess its something he does for all the sims in my family. I’d much prefer Betty to an anonymous donor anyway, but have you found someone you like?”

“No” she admitted “…and no, before you ask, I still don’t want to donate myself, I’m sorry. Can I have a little time to think about it?”

“Sure” Skye agreed, “I love you, think about it and let me know as soon as you’re comfortable with a path forward.”

Elyse hung up with her spouse and immediately dialed her mother “Mom? I need your advice. It’s about the baby…”

“You want to do WHAT!?” Greyson said when Betty called before bed to tell him about the offer she’d made to their friend.

“Honey… that’s very generous, but this is a huge decision and not one you should be making lightly. I understand the baby won’t be ours to raise, but it will be your biological offspring. That could get complicated as close as we are to Skye and Elyse. Are you sure about this?”

“I know what I’m getting into!” Betty retorted “Yes, the idea came to me out of the blue, but I wouldn’t have offered if I wasn’t sure. They want a baby so bad. Maybe I shouldn’t be telling you this, but they started trying to conceive on their wedding night! Xe didn’t go into details, but I guess they can’t get pregnant naturally, and you know how Elyse is with doctors, so she won’t donate. Xe won’t agree unless you’re onboard. Please Greyson.”

Her boyfriend sighed “I can’t reasonably tell you what to do with your own body here. I love you; if you’re sure about this then I support you.”

“I love you too,” she grinned, blowing him a kiss over the phone. “and I appreciate your support. I promise this is all going to work out.”

“Betty? Where are you?” Skye called “Out here” she answered, smiling up at xem as xe came to join her on the patio the next morning.

“Elyse just texted; she’s agreed to have you donate, if you’re still willing” Skye told her “I understand if you changed your mind… it’s a big decision…”

“Skye?” Betty interrupted “Yeah?” “I have some news” she deadpanned “I’m sorry if it comes as a shock to you but… we’re going to have a baby.”

Skye grinned from ear to ear “I guess we are at that” xe laughed, wrapping her in a giant hug “Thank you, again. You have no idea how much this means to me… to both of us.”

“You’re welcome, again” Betty smiled, her friends unabashed joy warming her heart. I made the right decision she thought no doubt about it. Ready or not I’m kinda, sorta, going to be a mom.

View The Full Story of My Not So Berry Challenge Here

[lovemyromance]

Do ... do people not understand that the "classic" SJM love interest switch up is already happening... ?

Anti-Elriels love to make the argument that SJM never has a FMC end up with her first love interest (false: see Nesta & Cassian, see Bryce & Hunt) and therefore Elriel is not endgame.

Except. Y'all are failing to realize that Elain's "First Love Interest" isn't Azriel.

Some people would say it was Greyson. She loved that man. Enough to still hold out hope that he might want her even after she became fae. She wore his ring even after she was Made, and she wanted nothing to do with her mate because she wanted her human fiancée.

Now personally, I liken Elain's love for Greyson to be the same type of off-page relationship/love that Bryce had for Connor (rip). Like yes it's there, it was valid, but in the grand scheme of things, it's not really a focus moving forward.

Elain's actual "first love interest" is Lucien. And I know you might be scoffing - "But all you do is post about how Elucien isn't in love!" - correct. They are not in love. I don't believe they will ever fall in love. But I still believe Lucien is her "first love interest" because in the context of this argument specifically, "first love interests" are used as a bait and switch. They are one, among several options available to the FMC as she goes on her journey.

Elain may not love Lucien, but his mating bond with her is essentially the thing that creates drama-tension-intrigue. It becomes a "Will they or won't they" situation with the mating bond in play, and regardless of their current feelings for each other, it automatically makes Lucien a love interest for Elain. By that - I really just mean he is an option. Whether she likes it or not - he has a tie to her that she will have to either accept or reject.

And since Lucien declared "You're my mate" the moment Elain got chucked out of the Cauldron - he became a love interest in her story. The first (real option, since Greyson took himself out the competition of vying for her hand).

Elriel only became a real ship in ACCOWAR. Yes they have some subtle moments in ACOMAF that were cute (see: Azriel Allen Poe), but the first real time I thought they could be a thing was in ACOWAR. After Elain was declared to already have a mate.

You know what that creates? Say it with me now- Drama. Tension. Intrigue.

Elain is already technically tied to Lucien, regardless of whether either one of them wants that. But she still starts to develop feels for Azriel. She buys Azriel gifts for Solstice. She gives him permission to kiss her.

The switch is already happening people. The idea of a rejected mating bond is so original and contrarian and so new, it is exactly what SJM needs. And she knows that - because she's out here writing about how the mating bond can be rejected as early as ACOWAR. She's out here having multiple characters question the cauldron, essentially questioning fate. She's out here on the Today show talking about rejected mates.

Literally, verbatim saying "What if the forces put you with the wrong person?"

The "wrong person" here isn't Azriel. Elriel is not just an obstacle on the path to Elucien. It's the other way around, babes. If Elriel was simply just an obstacle, then Lucien would have received a POV, he would've been way more involved as the future MMC. But who is SJM choosing to spotlight? Azriel. He got the BC, he got the feature in CC3. And if you think this is SJM "just planning ahead" LOL. She's not planning ahead and building hype for the MMC two books in advance when she hasn't even tackled the next book yet.

However you look at it, the fates put Elain with Lucien, but she does not want him. Her defying fate to be with Azriel is the most badass thing anyone could do. But I'd expect nothing less from Elain 'Kingslayer' Archeron 💅🏽💅🏽

[whiskey-tango-matcha]

FOH/BOH pt 1/2 (M, cold)

I'm splitting this in two because it's going to be 2 fairly distinct parts. In this one, Elijah is sick - but I'll be honest, a lot of it is just Mark being introspective. I wanted to write out a little of his story, since my last story had a good amount of Matt's inner thoughts. Idk what else to say about this one, lol other than Elijah catches something from the servers and is his usual pissed off self about it. Next part will hopefully be out soon-ish. Hope you all like it :)

CW: male, cold, fever, light mess, contagion, coughing. 2.7k words.

FOH/BOH

As far as Matt was concerned, there were two types of people in this world: front of house, and back of house.

Matt didn’t believe in astrology; he thought the enneagram was stupid, hated personality tests, and nearly scoffed in Elijah’s face when he told the management team at Elliot’s they’d be analyzing management styles using one of those what-color-is-your-parachute tests during the slow season this year. He did, however, believe firmly, almost spiritually, in the FOH/BOH divide.

The differences, Matt knew, could be subtle or obvious, but they were always distinct.

“Elijahhh!” Greyson called from the kitchen at the top of his lungs. “We can all hear you from in here!”

The cooks whooped with laughter from their prep stations behind the line, and Matt bit his cheek to keep from joining them. Greyson turned towards him, a smirk painted on his face, and secured his hair at the top of his head with a sharpie while they waited for Elijah’s inevitable trudge into the kitchen.

When Elijah pushed through the kitchen doors, the cooks forced themselves into submission and strapped in for the dressing-down they knew was coming their chef’s way. Elijah walked straight to the prep table in the middle of the kitchen and made livid eye contact with Greyson, obviously ready to go to blows. Matt, entirely too close for comfort, took a tentative step towards the line to keep out of the path of destruction.

“Do you thingk,” Elijah said, his voice low and cracking, “that you could fucking cool it with the theatrics, just this once? Just for today? For mbe – hh – hhITZCH-ue! HTSHH-uh! HRRTSHH-ue! Hh-!”

Elijah was stuck in a sort of pre-sneeze purgatory for longer than Greyson had the patience for, apparently. “By all means,” Greyson said, leaning on the prep table with his head in one hand, “don’t stop on my behalf.”

The GM colored and lowered his arm from his face, casting daggers at the chef. “Do you really thingk it’s appropriate for us to fuckigg squabble around your staff?” Elijah asked, quiet enough that only Greyson and Matt could hear it. Greyson smiled, stood to his full height, and placed a hand on Elijah’s shoulder.

“I do,” he said at full volume. “They’re not our real kids, it’s okay if they see mommy and daddy duke it out.”

The cooks roared once again, and Elijah flushed, clearly annoyed. “Fine,” he said, clearing his throat. “You’re on one today. Whatever. I have to go findish helping the servers set up for the night. Leave mbe out of your stupid little mood.”

“I’m on one because you have the server’s fuckin’ flu and you should be at home, not continuing the spread,” Greyson said to Elijah’s back as his boss started out the kitchen doors. “Mark is coming in in twenty minutes and you are leaving.”

Elijah didn’t turn back around, just flashed the kitchen the finger as he walked out into the dining room. Greyson turned towards his sous and rolled his eyes.

“Passive aggressive fuck,” Greyson said, picking his knife up and turning towards the line cooks behind him. “Don’t worry, guys, we still love you all, mommy and daddy just get frustrated with one another sometimes.”

Another round of laughter from the cooks. Matt shook his head, smiling until they all heard Elijah once again from the dining room – “HRRESHHH-ue!”

Greyson smiled devilishly at Matt, then his cooks, and held up his hand. “One, two,” he mouthed to the cooks, holding up the corresponding fingers. When he got to three, he pointed to the swinging doors that lead to the dining room. The whole kitchen, in tandem, called towards them.

“Bless you, Elijah.”

Within seconds, Elijah’s strained voice answered. “Oh, fuck off all of you.”

This time, the line cooks nearly collapsed with laughter. Greyson turned towards Matt, grinning ear to ear. “Think he heard us?” he asked. Matt couldn’t help but join in on the laughter this time.

***

At first, Mark hadn’t been sure that he bought Matt’s whole front of house person/back of house person bullshit.

“People have layers, babe,” Mark had said, coursing his fingers through Matt’s hair while they ignored the movie that was playing on TV. “No one is just… some caricature of ‘kitchen’ or ‘dining room’. This isn’t The Bear.”

“But that’s the thing, baby, it kind of is The Bear,” Matt said, sitting up straight and looking his boyfriend in the eye. “Did you not relate to The Bear? I don’t think this is going to work if you didn’t relate to The Bear, I’m not gonna lie to you.”

“I mean, yeah, I did but… I don’t know. I want to be more than just my job, y’know?” Mark pulled Matt back to laying on his lap – Matt allowed himself to be pulled.

“This isn’t about your job, it’s about your personality,” Matt explained. “Not everyone has worked in a restaurant, but that doesn’t mean they’re not a front or back of house person.”

“I’m so lost, honey. I thought this was about restaurants.”

“No, it’s about people.”

“Maybe you should look into getting your GED,” Mark said, elbowing Matt playfully. “So you can go to college for, like, sociology or something.”

“Oh fuck you,” Matt said, not unkindly. “You have to know what I mean. C’mon. You’re telling me you’ve never met someone and gone, ‘oh, that person’s totally a kitchen person’.”

“I can genuinely say I have not,” Mark said, placing a kiss on the top of Matt’s head. “Your mind is an enigma.”

They’d dropped it at that point, but Mark hadn’t stopped thinking about it all week. He’d thought about it when he’d talked to his dad on the phone and he asked Mark whether he’d gotten his oil changed lately, but didn’t say ‘I love you’ when they hung up – man, he’s such a back of house guy. He’d thought about it when he’d bought a coffee and the barista asked him about the entirety of his college career in England while a line formed out the door behind him – never met such a front of house person in my life. He’d especially thought about it at work, where the servers and bussers loudly complained all week about being sick.

“Maaaark,” Riley, their lead server, whined to him one day. “I feel like fuckin shiiiit.”

“Well, the shift is 85% over,” Mark replied as he replaced the silverware on an empty table. “Do you think you can make it another hour?”

Riley had pouted, sniffled, and shrugged. “I guess,” she said, opening her server book. “But, like, I’ve already made my money tonight, can’t you just cut me early?”

Typical front of house, Mark had thought to himself. So maybe Matt had been right; maybe there were just two types of people in this world. The problem was, despite having been ‘front of house’ most of his adult life, he didn’t know if he really… belonged there.

Mark had, essentially, fallen into working in restaurants; he’d been an English major in college – which basically guaranteed your life to veer towards serving tables or shaking cocktails – and when he’d graduated, he hadn’t felt the pull towards teaching or grad school or any of the typical ‘English major’ careers his friends had chosen. Instead, he kept his serving job; eventually, the resort that he worked at offered him a banquet captain position, which he did until he realized catering made him want to stab both eyes out with a cocktail fork. When he moved to New York on a whim, Mark had been sure he’d apply to grad school, or look for a copy-writing position, or apply to be a publisher’s assistant – but he didn’t. Instead, he found himself dialing the number on a flyer in the window of a soon-to-be-opened restaurant near the apartment he shared with four other recent college grads.

“Future home of Elliot’s restaurant, this is Elijah speaking,” the voice on the other end of the number answered on the first ring.

“Hi,” Mark had said. “I was wondering if you were hiring any front of house positions?”

It turned out that Mark was the first person to call Elijah in search of a job. Despite his only being twenty-one at the time, and despite the fact that he had no managerial experience, Elijah hired him on the spot to be the front of house manager.

“You have a good vibe,” Elijah said when they met at a coffee shop for Mark’s interview. “That’s all I really care about.”

And then suddenly, somehow, seven years had passed. He’d never found a good enough reason to leave Elliot’s; he was paid well, Elijah let him take tips when he had to cover for servers or bartenders, and the work, while demanding, felt mostly fun. He’d never felt like a front of house person, he was just… a person who worked in the front of house. Sometimes, Mark thought, he didn’t know what kind of person he was at all. A person who things just happened around. A background person. A person that no one could say much about, other than he had a good vibe.

That is, until Matt.

“Hi honey,” Matt said as Mark pushed through the back doors into the kitchen. Mark smiled wide when he saw that Matt was alone in the back kitchen; he pulled his boyfriend in for a long kiss, which Matt returned greedily.

“Hi,” Mark said, finally pulling away. “How have things been here this morning?”

Before Matt could answer, they heard a huge, “HRRTSHH-ue!” from the front kitchen. Mark whipped his head towards the sound, then back to Matt.

“Please tell me that isn’t what I think it is,” Mark said. Matt pressed his lips together, unwilling to be the bearer of bad news.

“Mbark,” Elijah said, rounding the corner with a hand held over the bottom half of his face, “you’re here, great.” The GM yanked a paper towel from the holder on the wall next to Matt and used it to wipe his nose before gesturing Mark to follow him, “Let’s go over the ndight, mbeet me in the office.”

“Right behind you,” Mark murmured to Elijah’s back. Before he followed his boss, he threw Matt a pained look, which his boyfriend returned with a mouthed, I’m sorry.

When the servers were sick, they were annoying because they complained constantly. They called out at the slightest provocation, they glommed onto one another and spread their illnesses like wildfire, and they always ended up sending their shit into the kitchen when one of them inevitably slept with a cook after a long night of drinking. When Elijah was sick, though, it was annoying for a whole other set of reasons.

Mostly, if he was honest, it was the blatant denial that he found obnoxious. “So, tondight shouldn’t be too heinous,” Elijah said, rubbing his nose on the back of his hand as he sat at the shared desk. “It’s tomborrow we really have to – tuh… hhITZSHH-ue! HTSHH-ue!” Elijah folded in on himself to sneeze away from Mark, blearily rubbed his eyes behind his glasses, and attempted to continue. “To worry about,” he finished, coughing into the back of his hand.

“Uh huh,” Mark said, taking in the state of his boss. Elijah had been quiet yesterday, and quick to annoyance, but despite knowing the man for almost a decade, Mark still wasn’t able to decipher between ‘quiet, easily annoyed’ Elijah and ‘getting sick’ Elijah. The two were indecipherable from one another.

“Don’t sit too close, Mark,” Greyson’s voice called from the prep station near the line. Both Mark and Elijah looked over at the chef, who was butchering New York’s and smirking to himself. “He’s sick as a dog.”

“Greyson,” Elijah called, his voice cracking on the word. “Could you combe in here for a minute, please?”

Greyson rolled his eyes, but put down his knife and walked toward the office all the same. “Yes, dear?” he asked, toweling off his hands and leaning on the office’s door frame. “How can I help you? Some tea, maybe, or perhaps a drive home?”

Elijah stood, pulled Greyson into the office, and shut the door. “Stop fuckigg patronizing mbe in front of the staff,” he growled, poking a finger into the chef’s chest. Greyson huffed out a little laugh and slapped a hand on Elijah’s forehead.

“I’ll stop,” he said, “when you no longer have a hundred-and-two fever.”

There they stood, the two ultimate testaments to Matt’s theory, duking it out in front of a clearly-forgotten Mark. Greyson, the gregarious, heart on his sleeve, back-of-house guy who would just as soon scream at you as he would give you the shirt off his back, and Elijah, the subdued stay-together-for-the-kids front of house man, who knew everything about everyone and cared so hard he couldn’t see anyone else caring about him in return. Yin and yang. Front and back. Which are you, Mark? he thought to himself as the standoff continued.

“Mark,” Greyson said, breaking the spell, “can you handle tonight by yourself out front?”

Mark blinked, first at his boss, then at Greyson, and finally found his voice. “Y-yeah, I mean, of course I can,” he said.

“It’s a busy ndight, Grey, I don’t waahhh – ETSCHH-zue! HhhNGTSHH-uhh!” Elijah wrenched to the side to keep from sneezing in Greyson’s face – much to the detriment of Mark.

“Yikes,” Greyson muttered, watching Mark cringe against the spray Elijah directed, unknowingly, into his face. His boss flushed bright red when he realized what he’d done.

“Fuckigg shit,” Elijah murmured, yanking a tissue out of the box and handing it, lamely, to Mark. “Fugck, Mbark I’mb so sorry I didn’t meee – ETSCHH-zue!” This time, Elijah tented both hands over his face to keep from having a repeat of that incident. Greyson took his hand back then, shrunk away from the GM.

“Maybe, uh, give us a signal next time?” Greyson said, an attempt to break the tension. Mark would’ve laughed if he didn’t feel so thoroughly...infected.

“Would’ve if I could’ve,” Elijah grumbled, pulling another tissue out and blowing his nose. “Mbark, I’m so -”

“It’s fine, boss,” Mark said, standing. “But, um, I do think Chef is right – maybe you should go home, sleep it off?”

Elijah swallowed, pain evident on his face, and finally gave up the charade. “Alright,” he said, curt. “Finde. I’ll go.” He turned back towards Mark. “You’re sure you’ve got this?”

“Of course, boss,” Mark said. Elijah nodded.

“Okay,” he said. “Take sombe Emergen-C or something, okay?”

“Okay, boss,” Mark said. Elijah coughed painfully into the sleeve of his shirt, grabbed his backpack, and signed out of the computer.

“I’ll drive you home,” Greyson offered, but Elijah shook his head.

“Thanks, mother, but I think I can handle a five-mbinute drive with a cold,” he said, rolling his eyes. “Just mbake sure your guys are ready for tomorrow ndight – it’s going to be a doozy.”

“And that’s how we know it’s really time for you to leave, when you start using words like ‘doozy’,” Greyson said, pushing Elijah out the door. “Go. You’ve infected enough people today.”

Finally, Elijah did as he was told and left. Mark and Greyson stood in the office avoiding eye contact with each other for what felt like a long moment.

“You wanna run to the store and get some Emergen-C?” Greyson asked, breaking the awkward silence. Mark laughed a little.

“Yeah,” he said, pulling a hand down his face, “I guess I probably should.”

On his way out the back door, Matt caught the back of Mark’s shirt. “The fuck is going on up there?” he asked, confusion written all over his face. “Where are you going? Did Elijah go home?”

Mark turned and embraced Matt, then pulled back to offer a small smile. “Elijah went home,” he said. “And I’ll be right back.”

“Where are you going?” Matt asked again. Mark just sighed and gave his boyfriend a defeated look.

“I’m going to try and ward off the stupid fucking front of house flu.”

[toasttt11]

stuck with me

December 1, 2022

Wyatt quietly walked out of his room being mindful to shut his door very quietly and he slowly walked to the room next to his and opened the door to Greyson’s room and closing the door behind him.

It was late at night and everyone else was sleeping but Wyatt had so much energy and was restless from the game he played a few hours ago.

He tried to sleep for the past hour, just tossing and turning until admitting defeat and got out of bed heading to Greyson’s room.

Wyatt has never been more thankful for a person than he is for Greyson, from the moment he met Greyson, Greyson has taken care of Wyatt and truly took him under his wing and showed him the NHL world.

Wyatt has always and will always think Greyson Hughes is absolutely beautiful and he is not ashamed to admit Greyson was the person Wyatt use to look up all the time on instagram and was the boy who made Wyatt realize he likes guys.

Wyatt and Greyson both lived in Toronto during the same time and played at the same arena for many years but being different ages they never ended up crossing paths.

But meeting Greyson and becoming roommates and teammates and eventually friends, Wyatt grew to care even more for Greyson, more than just being attracted to him.

And Wyatt knew the second Greyson smiled at him that Greyson would end up capturing his heart and Greyson has, and Wyatt is more than okay with that.

“Ollie.” Wyatt softly whispered as he leaned over a sleeping Greyson, Wyatt felt a pinch of guilt for trying to wake up Greyson when he is peacefully sleeping.

Wyatt wants to just slide into Greyson’s bed and curl up to him but Wyatt doesn’t have permission to do so and does not want to push Greyson and make him uncomfortable.

Greyson’s eyes fluttered open squinting at Wyatt, “Wy?” Greyson sleepily mumbled sounding confused.

Wyatt cleared his throat softly trying to ignore the thoughts that ran to his head from Greyson’s voice, “Can i sleep next to you?” Wyatt hopefully whispered asking.

Greyson hummed his eyes shutting close once more and he lifted his arm up making his blanket lift and Wyatt beam before he slid into the spot next to Greyson.

Wyatt did not immediately curl up to Greyson even if he wished too.

“Did you come in here to lay all the way over there.” Greyson teasingly mumbled his eyes never once opening but he could feel how far away Wyatt was from him.

Wyatt flushed a soft pink but eagerly scooted closer to Greyson but apparently not enough because Greyson threw his arm over Wyatt’s waist and pulled his as close as possible and burrowed his face into Wyatt’s soft hair.

Wyatt made a suprised squeak but all but melted into Greyson’s protecting arms.

Wyatt toon a few deep breaths trying to find words to get his thoughts out.

“Sssh, we can talk in the morning, sleep now.” Greyson softly mumbled rubbing Wyatt’s back gently making him relax more and more into his arms.

Wyatt nodded and felt himself fall into a deep sleep in Greyson’s arms.

December 2, 2022

Greyson’s nose twitched as he felt something brush his nose, Greyson squinted his eyes open and remember Wyatt had joined him late last night.

Greyson nudged his nose against Wyatt’s hair letting out a soft fond sigh.

Greyson has always been a good sleeper but having Wyatt in arms made his sleep last night become the best sleep he has ever had and he knows it’s all because of Wyatt.

Greyson wasn’t scared to admit he has feelings for Wyatt and they have been slowly growing over the last few months, Greyson has never met someone who he has felt so comfortable with so fast.

He knows Wyatt feels something for him back, it is obvious by the way he flushes pink often because of Greyson and the way Wyatt stares at him with heart eyes.

Greyson has kinda just let their friendship develop not pushing that they both have feelings for each other and he has been more than content to just wait for Wyatt and kinda let him settle into his new life but Greyson has been thinking about confessing soon and then Wyatt came into his bed last night kidna giving him his sign he should confess.

Wyatt shuffled around nuzzling his head more against Greyson as he slowly started to wake up.

Wyatt blinked sleepily feeling a hand scratching his back and being held, He hummed happily and then realized it was Greyson holding him and smiled.

“Morning.” Greyson softly mumbled noticing Wyatt waking up.

“Morning.” Wyatt mumbled sleepily but happily, how could he not be happy by waking up in the arms of the boy he has been crushing on for years.

Wyatt just laid in Greyson’s arms for a good while enjoying the comforting touch and silence between them but he eventually lifted his head up resting his chin on Greyson’s chest

“Sorry about coming in here last night.” Wyatt sheepishly apologized.

Greyson shook his head, “It’s okay, i don’t mind.” Greyson knew that Wyatt has a hard time sleeping after being wired up from a game.

Wyatt smiled pleased and laid his head back down resting his cheek on Greyson’s chest still staring up at him.

Greyson tentatively brought his hand up to Wyatt’s messy hair messing with his little strands.

Greyson and Wyatt just held eye contact as Greyson played with Wyatt’s hair.

Greyson didn’t realize he was slowly leaning in as he stared at Wyatt until their noses bumped each other.

Greyson eyes flickered between Wyatt’s eyes and lips making sure there was no hesitation and took a deep breath before pressing their lips together.

Wyatt inhaled sharply, he had thought maybe they were about to kiss but having Greyson actually kiss him shocked him.

Wyatt desperately kissed him back bringing his hands up to hold Greyson’s face in his hands.

“Woah.” Wyatt mumbled in awe panting as they pulled away from each other.

Greyson smiled and rubbed his nose again Wyatt’s cheek.

“Can we do that again?“ Wyatt looked up at him nervously, he wasn’t sure what he would do if he never got to kiss Greyson again, he’s been waiting long enough.

“Whenver you want love.” Greyson softly mumbled rubbing Wyatt’s cheek reassuring.

“As your boyfriend?” Wyatt added hopefully happily leaning into Greyson’s soft touch.

“Yes. You’re stuck with me.” Greyson softly teased making Wyatt beam happily.

[changingplumbob]

Glenn had just set the pie down to cool when there was a knock at the door. Telling his grandfather he would get it he moved into the lounge and stopped when he could see through the door. Why was she here now?

Ophelia: Hey Glenn! It's me, can I come in?

There was little point saying no. She was likely to just come in anyway. Putting his personal feeling aside Glenn walked over and let her in.

Ophelia: Hello. I knew you'd be finished the baking so I thought it would be the perfect time to grab you

Howard: Who is it? Oh, Ophelia. I'll just be... fishing

Ophelia looked confused as Howard grabbed his gear and headed out the door.

Ophelia: Oh dear, is he mad at me?

Glenn: Why would he be mad with you?

Ophelia: I find I can annoy people by being myself but I don't think I've done anything...

Glenn: He probably just knows I'm mad at you

Ophelia: You're mad at me? Why? I haven't even seen you for weeks. Before then we only ever had one conversation

Glenn: Do you remember it

Ophelia: Of course. I gave you good news and wished you well

Glenn: Good news? Was that what it was? I seem to recall you telling me I would win the show

Ophelia: Oh. Did you not win?

Glenn: Have you not seen it

Ophelia: I don't own a television

Glenn: That's not what I meant and you know it

Ophelia: You seem upset Glenn

Glenn: Of course I'm upset! A witch gave me a prophecy that said doing that BC show was the right thing and would lead me to love

Ophelia: But... you have been in love, I can feel it

Glenn: Maybe but he chose someone else. Don't you think that it would have been helpful to end the prophecy with... "and then your heart will get ripped out"

Ophelia: I don't see-

Glenn: So you're a fraud? Honestly with your get up I'm surprised you're not telling 2 cent fortunes at a carnival

Ophelia: Woah! There's no need to be rude, even if you are hurting. Glenn, I never told you you'd win the show. I never saw you winning

Glenn: Then why didn't you tell me it would end like his

Ophelia: Isn't it obvious? Because this isn't the end

Glenn: Finale has screened, credits have rolled, it's the end

Ophelia: You say that but the pieces I saw are still there

Glenn: What do you mean

Ophelia: So I saw that one path for you, the brightest path, was to apply to charm whats-his-name

Glenn: Greyson

Ophelia: If you followed through with that then your future would have love, great love. But I never saw you and him together

Glenn: What did you see then

Previous ... Next

[acourtofthought]

Hi!

I was wondering if you could share your thoughts on something I've noticed in the ship war.

The canon tells us that Elain doesn't want a mate or a male, and we know it's because she wants Greyson, and I see some Eluciens wonder if maybe Elain is attracted to/wants Lucien and is in denial and/or fighting against it and we might learn more about when we get her own book/pov

However, I see Elriels claim that when Eluciens say stuff like this, they are ignoring what Elain wants and are forcing her to be with Lucien. Since there is a mating bond between them, isn't it natural to think that Elain might be attracted to Lucien and is just refusing to admit or act on it because she resents it? Isn't that basically what Nesta did? So, with Elain, why is it so crazy to think something similar could be going on?

From what I've seen, many Elriels love to claim the other side is delusional or misogynistic for suggesting Elain feels more Lucien than just revulsion. Yet, do they not also suggest that Azriel feels more for Elain than just lust?

The canon tells us that Azriel has not thought of Elain beyond sexual fantasies, yet I've seen Elriels suggesting that Azriel has only limited himself to those fantasies because dreaming of having more with Elain would be too painful.

However, in my opinion, at least, there is nothing in the text or about the delivery of those thoughts to suggest that. So, are they themselves not also ignoring what Azriel wants and forcing him to be with Elain when he, in canon, only wanted to have sex with her once to satisfy his lust?

I'm in agreement with everything you said and I think it really all boils down to the fact that we're reading books, that this is not real life and does not mimic real life in any true way. We don't have to believe what Elain says when she says she doesn't want a mate, we don't have to believe it's a simple as "she's just not interested" because there is no story there if that's the case. Sarah loves Lucien's character just as she loves Cassian and Az and Feyre and Nesta and so on. I can't think of a single author who has professed adoration for one of her characters, made him a MAJOR part of the series since book 1, only to write him as the "nice guy who isn't taking the hint when his mate clearly isn't interested so he's just a creeper at this point and she's feeling harassed by this male she doesn't want." (E/riel narrative). Someone is trying pretty hard to convince themselves the author hates her own creation if they really believe that. There is no angst or growth in a character saying "I don't want the mate that fate gifted me while I was engaged to someone else so I'm just going to ignore him for the book before my own book and reject him to be with someone else who I don't even try to spend time with even though I'm comfortable with him!" The story has and always will lie in a character trying to turn from their destiny only to realize why that destiny was the key to achieving the ultimate in greatness, the ultimate in happiness. Bilbo Baggins didn't want to go on an adventure. Harry didn't want to fight Voldemort. Feyre didn't want to go to the faerie lands and didn't want to go to the NC with Rhys. Aelin didn't want to train with Rowan or become Queen. Aragorn didn't want to be King. Claire didn't want to travel to the past or to marry Jamie. None of these characters wanted to take the path that fate was sending them down but in the end they did anyway because it's how hero's are made, it's how epic love stories are told. It's ok for us not to want Elain to stay in the NC with friends she made off page with a love interest we've never seen her have a deep conversation with because there is nothing grand about that. I want to see Elain's beliefs challenged. I want to see fate take her by surprise. I want the 24 year old to realize that what she thinks she's fine with isn't actually the thing that will bring her enlightenment, that will open her eyes and her mind to something she never dared to imagine. "Elain should get what she said she wants before her book even starts." So Elain should be serving side character energy for the rest of the series? Because that is the kind of setup reserved for those characters; not main characters, not heroines. Main characters need to realize they were wrong about certain things before they can grow. Main characters need to realize they didn't know what was best for them at the start of their journey. Main characters need their sheltered world shaken up so they can turn around and rattle the stars.

[hyacinthoideshispanica]

I was just thinking about possible titles for an Elucien book and came up with "A Court of Golden Thread" because golden = sun and thread = mating bond. But it also made me think of the Greek myth, Theseus and the Minotaur, because of Ariadne's thread, and I thought of something.

Theseus = Greyson

Ariadne = Elain

Dionysus = Lucien

Ariadne is in love with Theseus, but he ends up leaving her stranded on a deserted island. Dionysus sees her crying and goes to comfort her. They fall in love, and she is either given ambrosia to make her immortal or Dionysus retrieves her soul from the Underworld after her death but either way, they end up married and she is made the Goddess of paths and labyrinths.

Consider this prompt up for grabs

[strwbrychffoncke]

"the most wonderful time of the year,, 1.2k words synopsis: you decide to surprise a certain doctor when your mission wraps up earlier than expected; quality time in the form of decorating takes place contains: lads greyson x reader (not lads mc but reader is a hunter!) ,v fluffy ,maybe ooc greyson (using what little screentime he has + characterization through others) , ,playful teasing/back n forths ,kisses ,hugs ,domestic feel(?) ,soft makeout ,he carries you ,ending might be suggestive (but doesnt have to be interpreted that way lol) ,thats mostly it :x note: (mostly edited! pls bare w me!) this one was simultaneously easy and difficult. the idea was there but w what little screentime greyson had i had to draw up character aspects from thin air sigh... i think it came out well? at some point i tried capturing the "warm, home-y" type feel that something like the holidays seems to bring w it so hopefully its conveyed well?

upon entering his home late in the evening, greyson notices a couple of things.

one, he absolutely did not leave music playing when he left, and certainly not the festive classics who's notes float their way towards the entrance, seemingly coming from the living room.

two, the boxes littering just at the end of the walkway were not there when he left for work this morning.

and three...

the special guest humming along to the music and scurrying around the living area was not expected for another day or so.

he haphazardly shrugs off his coat in realization, speedwalking down the short path towards the destination that would lead to you.

he was eager to hold you in his arms again, unable to stand another moment without you when you were right there.

. . .

upon finishing your two week-long mission earlier than expected, you managed to contain the excitement from telling your boyfriend or stopping by akso hospital (you did have some minor cuts and bruises, but figured it was too little to have greyson fuss over, thinking he likely had more important matters to deal with), instead settling to surprise him at his place when he got off of work.

though, when you got there in the early evening, the lack of decorations and the sight of a bare tree were too much for you to leave alone, deciding to dig around for any decorations you could find, and embellish the place while you waited for him.

. . .

something new you learned about greyson today: he had quite the amount of festive decorations.

you're looking around at the containers of decorations and ornaments you have out, checking to see that you have everything you might need when you're engulfed by a sudden weight.

you startle for a moment, not properly registering who it is before you both are quickly falling towards the ground.

in his excitement (and slight miscalculation of the actual distance between you two), greyson practically crashes into you.

in a split second, you're engulfed in his arms as he twists his body while tugging you, falling on his back with a small oof while cushioning your landing as you plop down right on top of him.

"g-greyson??!"

"sorry! are you alright?"

he's gripping your waist securely, looking up at you, automatically checking over you for any injuries.

you shake your head, hands on his chest, pushing yourself up slightly.

"i'm okay... what about you?? what was that?"

after assuring you're alright, he smiles.

"you didn't tell me you were back already. can you blame me for being a little excited?"

you let out a laugh, crawling off of him before offering a hand to pull you both to your feet, a sheepish smile overtaking your features.

"i wanted to surprise you, hehe... seems like it worked?"

"it definitely surprised me," he cups your face in his hands, and you instinctually nuzzle further into his warm hold.

"i missed you."

his voice is a little quieter, his honesty shooting straight to your heart, eyes shining up at him.

he doesnt let you respond, closing the distance and meeting your lips in a sweet kiss. your arms wind their way around his neck, pulling him impossibly closer to you.

after all, you missed him just as much, if not moreso.

after a minute the need for breath becomes too strong. you break the kiss first, eyes fluttering open, a quiet laugh escaping you as you watch greyson's lips chase yours for a moment before pulling back to look up at him, arms still around his neck. his eyes are bright as he looks back at you, thumbs caressing the sides of your face.

a playful look takes over your gaze before you speak.

"but you know, who knew the doctor greyson had so many christmas decorations?" you tilt your head, exaggerated surprise lacing your tone.

"even more, for someone who seems to like christmas so much, your tree is just depressing! so little time until christmas and the tree is as bare as it was when i left?"

you slip a hand from his neck to poke his cheek.

"for shame, doctor greyson" you finish, pouting playfully and shaking your head lightly.

a deep rumble escapes his chest at your teasing, gaze shining with mirth.

"well, you know how it is at the hospital," he moves in close again suddenly, noses centimeters from touching.

"and what can i say? i missed a certain hunter too much while she was away. how can i bring myself to decorate the tree myself knowing its your favorite part of the holiday?"

he pecks your lips, much shorter than the last before pulling back and booping your nose.

you feel your face warm at his honesty, gaze shyly darting to the side.

"w-well, in that case... would you like to help me?"

a bright smile overtakes his charming features.

"would i?"

-

you and greyson spend the next while sorting through the ornaments in the containers, thinking of a color scheme before deciding which ornaments to place and where.

"this one is too cute! let's put it in the center-"

"doesn't this one look better?"

"doctor greyson, i had no idea you had such a knack for decorating!"

"i'm not so sure id say that..."

playful conversation fills the living room, the music a quiet hum in the background as you both carefully assess and hang each ornament in place.

"oh! i brought some candy canes too, let me go find them~"

you scurry off to the kitchen, swiftly returning with a couple of boxes.

greyson's eyes widen at the treats in your arms.

"darling, i'm not so sure you know what the word 'some' means..."

you playfully gasp.

"well, i made sure to get the ones that you like and the ones that i like. plus, they were on sale!"

"you know I'm not picky..." he shakes his head, "but thank you for thinking of me."

you open the boxes before you respond plainly.

"im always thinking of you."

greyson's cheeks color a pretty shade of pink as he feels his heart skip a beat. he's not even sure if you've realized what you said, working to free the candy cane's from their confines before you hand him his.

what is he going to do with you? he thinks.

. . .

candy cane's in hand, you inspect the tree for a moment.

"do you think they'll all fit...?"

"i'm sure they will- there's still a considerable amount of space. see?" he says, placing one closer to the top.

"pfft, you only say that because you're so tall."

"i can always help you up here, too" he offers.

you ponder for a moment.

"if i can't find anymore space down here, i'll let you know."

he giggles, nodding.

"sure."

(you did end up taking greyson up on his offer, and he gratefully lifted you up to place your remaining candy canes closer to the top of the tree. when he gently placed you back down, you wondered aloud how you would get them down later, to which he replied "you'll just have to ask me, of course!" a little too proudly, but given your sweet tooth, you know he'll have the full-power to deny you of fulfilling your craving when the time comes. you couldnt help but shudder at the thought).

-

in just a couple of minutes, when every ornament and candy cane is hanging in place, you take a step back to admire your masterpiece, pausing before a question bubbles up.

"do you think the candy canes throw off the color scheme?"

greyson backs up to where you are, looking at the tree for a few moments before answering.

"nope. if anything, it gives it even more character, don't you think?" he shoots back, gaze wandering to you.

"yeah, you're right," you look back up at him. "and we did it together," you smile gratefully.

together.

yes, you did this together.

he nods before suddenly closing the distance in one step, engulfing you in a warm hug.

"greyson?"

"can we stay like this for a bit?"

you wrap your arms back around him, returning his loving embrace, breathing in his scent.

"of course."

he was so grateful to have you to spend christmas with, excited to do whatever you wished so long as you were both doing it together.

arms still secure around you, he pulls back enough to take a look at your face. you look up in question, parting your lips to speak before he dives down, silencing any words with the answer of his kiss, both your eyes slipping shut as your lips easily melt into his, returning the love and yearning he's pouring into them.

neither of you keep track of how much time passes like this, christmas tree lights twinkling on your silhouettes as it casts embracing shadows on the wall, festive music a gentle ambiance in the otherwise silence that engulfs the space, hearts laid out for each other in a soft warmth, words unnecessary in the loving gestures that you share.

-

extra.

you place a hand on his chest, pausing him from diving back in as you lift a hand to cover your mouth, letting out a yawn.

greyson's eyes crinkle.

"are you tired?"

"i guess so," you lower your hand. "what time is it?" you reach for your phone, but greyson is quicker, reading the time from his watch.

"its... 11 pm?"

greyson almost laughs at the way your eyes shoot open in surprise.

"what??! i didn't realize how much time had passed..."

"should we get ready for bed then?"

you give a sleepy nod before you're startled again as you feel yourself being lifted up.

"greyson?!??"

he hums in acknowledgement, making his way towards the bedroom.

"what are you-"

"my lovely miss hunter is tired, so im carrying her to bed," he states matter-of-factly. "is that a problem?"

"no its just..."

his gaze is soft at your sudden shyness, pushing the door open with his shoulder.

"you deserve some good rest for all of your hard work," he speaks quieter, placing you gently on the bed. "allow me to spoil you, miss hunter."

and spoil you he did. you think this is the best sleep you've gotten in the almost fourteen days you'd been away from him. how ever did you manage that long without him, you aren't even sure yourself.

-

a/n: had to keep replaying greyson voicelines in my head n read it in the dialogue i looooove his deep voice heheheh dr greyson marry me ? i wanna write for him more he's soooooo cute yet attractive at the same time?? i<3 him i can only hope i did him justice sigh

[whavsims]

The Haverland Family

Introducing the Haverland Family: Will and Ariana Haverland have 4 children, Elijah, Maeve, Greyson, and Aurora. They've all grown up and are taking after their parents looking to take on the path to stardom.

[projectphoenixsanctuary]

Drone Designation: D35TRUD0

Status: Turned itself in willingly

Condition Upon Arrival: Fully Functional

Known Behaviors: Compulsively creates miniatures of drones and people, does self harm repeatedly, walks in the same path in self thought

Additional Notes: If he wanted to, he can generate up to 7.965 PWh (7965000000000000 Wh) with ███████████████ and transmit it to others.

The intake clerk tilts her head thoughtfully at the paperwork, looking between the drone in front of her, then back to the papers.

She adjusts her glasses, and then smiles.

"Ah! It's not very often we get drones that turn themselves in willingly."

After pressing a button on the keyboard in front of her, she clasps her hands together.

"We'll put you with Greyson's group, he's wonderful at taking care of his drones. He'll be here in just a moment to get you all settled in. Do you mind if i go ahead and get you your chip and collar, and get a photo of you for the file?"

[dem0batz]

Active Writing Projects

This is a list of my current writing projects. Well, the ones I'm focusing my energy on anyway. On top of writing fanfic, I am also in the process of writing two original book series, so this list will include a mixture of both. All stories feature either afab-she/her!Reader or an Original Female Character.

Thanks for being here!

- Opal

⚠️🔞All of my works are intended for adult audiences. Minors do not interact🔞⚠️

Fanfic

OpaLADS au // [Love and Deepspace] series

LADS (Caleb, Zayne, Sylus, Rafayel, Xavier) x mc!Reader

Synopsis: A series of connected one-shots taking place in the Love and Deepspace setting. Most of the one-shots are inspired by card memories and follows alongside with the canonical in-game storyline (taking some creative liberties, of course).

Tags: Reverse Harem/Why-Choose, Taboo romance, smut

Read on Tumblr // Read on AO3

Human Hunter // [Blackkklansman] chaptered fic

hunter!Flip Zimmerman x captive!Reader

Synopsis: Going on a road trip to attend a Halloween festival with your roommates over Fall break seemed like a great idea. It was supposed to be a fun little reprieve before going back to school to finish out the semester. Little did you expect to be kidnapped, forced into a sick game of predator and prey, and kept as a mad mountain man's pet.

Tags: Dead Dove, Do Not Eat; serial killer au, dark romance, erotic horror, captor/captive, predator/prey, noncon smut, violence, body horror, death

Read on AO3

Rainbow in the Dark // [Stranger Things] chaptered fic

Eddie Munson x new girl!Reader

Synopsis: New to Hawkins, Indiana, you join Hawkins High during junior year where you meet Eddie Munson. He takes you under his wing and ensures that your fate in the small town won’t be a lonely and miserable one. During this time, the two of you develop feelings for one another and go through the typical trials of teenage love, including school drama and parents. Not to mention, the nasty little secrets lurking beneath the community. Will your new relationship make it through the treacherous waters of young love, murder scandals, and a cursed town?

Tags: season 4 Fix-it, canon-adjacent, high school romance, smut, canon-typical horror and violence

Read on Tumblr // Read on AO3

Original Book Projects

Demon Spawn duet

Demon Girl

Demon FMC x Human MMC

Synopsis: The last child in line for Hell's throne, Thorne gives up her fiery inheritance in pursuit of carving her own path in the universe. Posing as a student at an ivy league university she is able to hunt for souls and grow her own power. Greyson is the Alternate Captain of the school's hockey team and heir to a multi-billion dollar tech company. It seems as though he has it all, but it's all a facade to cover the truth of his upbringing into high society. One fateful night, the two meet under dark club lights and seem to be thrust back toward one another over and over again.

Tags: Paranormal Romance (demon), Dark Urban Fantasy, Hockey Romance if you squint, Black Cat gf and Golden Retriever bf, Soul Pact, Smut; Sexual Switching, Mistress/Guard Dog

#Demon Spawn WIP for updates

Demon Heirs

Demon Triplets MMCs x Witch FMC

Synopsis: Atom was the original son, the first born of Lucifer's dozens of spawn-- one who was prophesied to be powerful enough to overthrow his father. The devil charged a witch with removing his heir's power. The best she could do was to split the power source into three, giving Hell's king three identical sons in return with their power weakened just enough to keep them under his thumb. With the death of her father, Moira Ambrose inherits the family's multi-billion dollar tech company, a role she had been raised for her entire life. She was no stranger to the paranormal, having been haunted since childhood by the visage of a drowned woman. What she never expected to discover was that her father had sold her to a Demonic trio in exchange for the success of his company and that she has powers of her own beyond all of their expectations.

Tags: Reverse Harem/Why-Choose, Paranormal Romance (demons x witch), Dark Urban Fantasy, Office Romance (if you squint), Magic and Lore, Soul Pact, Fated Mates, Smut; FMMM

#Demon Spawn WIP for updates

Rock Band Brothers triology

Series Tags: Reverse Harem/Why-Choose, Taboo romance (3 Brothers x FMC), Smutty but the romantic relationship dynamics are Slowburn (over the course of three books), Angst, Drama, Substance Abuse and Addiction, Mental Health struggles, Death, Grief

Book I

Drummer MMC (brother #2) x Cute Nerdy MMC x Bassist MMC (brother #3)

Synopsis: Astra comes tumbling into Matt's life like a little explosive ball of sunshine, a counter to his usual dark broodiness. Daughter of an astronomy professor, Astra grew up with a love for the cosmos that she passed onto Matt. He came from a family of musicians and opened her up to the world of music. The two had been inseparable since elementary school, but things changed during middle school with the introduction of Matt's middle brother, Benji, growing the duo into a trio. To Matt's dismay, his childhood crush on Astra comes crumbling down when she begins to date his brother. Meanwhile, the boys are trying to kick off a rock band with their eldest brother, Kai. With both boys being in love with the same girl, will they be able to put their problems aside for the good of the band? And will Astra be able to navigate the complicated feelings she is developing for all three brothers without losing herself in the process?

Tags: High School setting, Angst, Drama, Underage Substance Abuse, Smut; FMM, Death, Grief, Toxic Relationships

#Rock Band Bros WIP for updates // read on AO3