#i want to write a non au ficlet too this week

[ethersierra]

Finally, the Oksamber Cafe AU we've all been waiting for (there will also be an aquarium, later.)

Love You a Latte

Summary: Amber Gris works at Joshy's, a cafe in downtown Founder's Wake. When a cute girl from the aquarium starts buying all of their danishes, Amber has conflicting emotions. Her fucking danishes…. This AU has no real canon spoilers, and doesn't require any background knowledge of Ethersea.

Chapter 1:

Amber Gris did not think she would be the type to work at a cafe. She was too tough for that– but it turned out to be a pretty sweet gig. What started out as a convenience job offered by a family friend had become a pretty stable part of her life. It had its perks– namely, since she took the closing shift, she got to save whatever didn’t sell. Whether this was refrigerating for later, taking them to the folks who needed them, or taking some for the road (it was usually a combination), it was her favorite part of the day.

Keep reading on ao3

[will-continue-livinglikeimtrying]

Hi! First pinned post ever here actually.

Anyways, uhm, so as I work on some of my longer fics for Nimona and another fandom, I also wanted to try and write with random prompts or ideas for fun, and also to train my writing.

So, if anyone is interested, I'll be taking requests for Nimona fics, of which I will be writing about 2 or 3 a week or so, and I'll be writing short stories (hopefully, I can go on quite the length with them if left unchecked which I am, a lot). All of them will be posted here, and the rest on AO3, either in a book or as ficlets.

I have no-no's and such, of course:

I will NOT write any ship fics between Nimona and Ballister, or Nimona shipped with any character really.

I will NOT write non-con or any r*pe fics or scenes.

I won't write age regression. I don't know enough about it to do so.

If I'm not comfortable with a request I'll let that be known privately and respectfully.

More might be added as time goes on.

I only really ship GoldenHeart.

I won't lie, Ambrosius is my favourite but I love to write all of the characters, and for all of them.

I'm cool with AU's, and scenes or scenarios.

I'm cool with spicy stuff, though anything too intense will be posted directly on AO3 only, and not on Tumblr and AO3.

That's pretty much it really. The first fic might come out around the next week after request, or the weekend depending, and I'll let know how many I'm doing at a time or if requests are closed.

Well, bye 👋🏼.

[faith-less-one]

Hey lovely!

For your WIP game (SO glad you joined me in this!) anything you'd like to share about 'So It's You'? <3

Oh, you KNOW I want to share stuff about "So It's You". ♥

For those of you not in the know... this passage was in my very first Brennan/Cassandra fic (Stargazing) - which I wrote over four years ago:

Unconsciously, he wonders what it would be like if they hadn’t met the way they did. If he didn’t have the anchor in his hand and the fate of the whole world on his shoulders. If he wasn’t a mage and she weren’t a seeker. If he’d just been introduced to her at an Ostwick ball, some very minor member of Nevarran royalty who his mother thought would be an excellent match for her second-eldest son. Would they have flirted? Danced? Would he have stolen her away to a deserted corner of the grounds he barely remembers, to lie and stargaze like this?

And I always had in my head that someday, I might write that AU. No Inquisition, no titles, no powers... Not a mage, not a seeker. But the whole rest of my canon universe kept happening, and so it was always just... a thought.

Then, a little over two years ago, I wrote a short modern AU Brennan/Cassandra ficlet on my birthday (Glad You Exist). And it was so much fun, that on my birthday last year, I was like - "I should write that Ostwick ball fic!". So I started it. And... it ballooned.

It ballooned into a Fantasy-meets-Regency, highly Bridgerton-inspired literal novel (over 75,000 words!). Utterly indulgent, probably entirely ridiculous, and so, so much fun.

Technically I finished it last November, and commissioned ART for it, but I had it in my head to write an 'epilogue' in the style of the Bridgerton second epilogues. Except I kept stalling out and rewriting over and over again, and nothing felt as good as the initial fic did. So I dropped it for a few months. And then recently, I decided eh, fuck it, it doesn't need the epilogue.

But how to post it? It's fourteen chapters and (as I said) 75,000 words, so I didn't want to post it on my normal schedule, because it would take half the year, and that's a long time to go between updates of my regular series. Then, the other day, after posting this WIP game, I decided eh, fuck it. I want to share it!! (With more than just @ooachilliaoo !) So... yup, starting next Friday, I will be. And then a chapter every other week (alternating with my regular fic chapters) right up until Christmas. :D

And in case you've read all of this and aren't horrified... A short, highly indulgent snippet under the cut!!

---

He hears some soft grumbling coming from the other side of one of the hedges. Too quiet to make out any words, but it sounds distinctly… grumpy. And feminine.

“Uh… is everything all right?” he calls out, deciding that announcing his presence is better than attempting to continue to eavesdrop and try to figure out who it is. No one he recognises immediately, at any rate.

There’s a surprised, somewhat irritated gasp from the other side of the hedge. “Excuse me?”

She sounds more confused than outraged, thank the Maker.

“Hello!” he responds, trying his best to sound bright and non-threatening. “Do you need any help?”

He waits for a response, but there is none. Perhaps she’s just in a bad mood and he’s disturbed her from a perfectly acceptable bit of alone time before the ball starts. He grew up with three brothers and a sister, he understands how important a little solitude can be when you’re feeling stressed.

“Sorry!” he calls back, after a few long moments. “I’ll just… I didn’t mean to disturb you. Ignore me. I’ll leave you be.”

“No, wait!” The voice sounds a little frantic. With a Nevarran accent, perhaps? One of Great-Aunt Lucille’s guests. A damsel in distress? “You know your way around this blasted thing?”

“I do!” And then, after a beat. “Would you like me to show you the way out?”

He’s careful not to say the word ‘lost’. It seems like she might be the type of person to take such a thing badly.

There’s a short delay to her response, as if she doesn’t want to admit that she needs his help. And then finally, she makes a sort of grumbling noise.

“I’ll take that as a yes, shall I?” he says, and then, because he imagines she’ll probably want to get this encounter over sooner rather than later, he adds, “Just stay where you are. It’s a bit twisty, but I’ll be with you in a minute.”

Then, without waiting for another response, he continues on, deeper into the maze, toward her. Though he’s still a little wary of coming across other people on the way, he decides whatever embarrassment he might cause would be worth the trouble.

Less than his promised minute later, he turns the corner and finds a lady standing with her back to him. Right where his mysterious damsel in distress should be.

“My lady?”

She turns sharply, and he gets his first look at her.

Her.

Oh.

His heart nearly stops.

This is it, he thinks, when he recovers the power of thought a moment later.

This is that spark he’s been waiting his whole life to feel...

[invisibleraven]

20 questions for writers

So I was tagged by @stellarspecter last week (I am so behind on my dash) and @1mnobodywhoareyou today.

1. How many works do you have on AO3?

132-92 of which are JatP

2. What's your total AO3 word count?

1 853 063 (I’d say 1.5m is JatP) and I have a few ficlets to upload there from last week. We’re almost at 900 if you can believe that!

3. What fandoms do you write for?

Julie and the Phantoms for the past three years and I don’t see that changing any time soon.

4. What are your top 5 fics by kudos?

And giving yourself to me can never be wrong (251) My collection of smut prompt fills.

I Know Who I Want To Take Me Home (195) the first part of my Semisonic Sunset verse, and probably my claim to fame on this fandom.

But came the dawn (176) my favourite fic I’ve ever written. A PeterPatterLina soulmate AU that I will never top.

Better walk the line (129) my single dad Reggie PeterPatterLina fic.

Maybe this news can wait (126) The third (and only non smutty part) of the Semisonic Sunset verse.

5. Do you respond to comments?

Not anymore, it takes too many spoons.

6. What is the fic you wrote with the angstiest ending?

Haunted by the moments of what we used to be the fic that mostly got me comments of how very dare you because it is such an angst fest.

7. What's the fic you wrote with the happiest ending?

I think the last time I did this I said Yellow Wood but this time I’ll say So Close To Reaching That Famous Happy End-my PeterPatterLina Enchanted AU. I love it dearly, and hope that you do too if you read it!

8. Do you get hate on fics?

On my fics now no. A few concrit comments I could do without, and there’s the whole blacklist nonsense that still stings, but otherwise I’m pretty invisible.

9. Do you write smut? If so, what kind?

I have in the past yes, but it has been forever since I did so last. I have written M/M, F/F, M/F, and a bunch of multi partnered fics (though mostly M/M/F). Maybe I’ll add some to one of my many WiPs.

10. Do you write crossovers?

No, and I never will. I hate crossover fics and will go out of my way to avoid them.

11. Have you ever had a fic stolen?

Yes. It was an unpleasant experience I hope not to repeat.

12. Have you ever had a fic translated?

No, but I’ve given blanket permission on my AO3 to do so as long as you credit me and send me a link. Same thing with podfics, and any other fanworks of my stories.

13. Have you ever co-written a fic before?

No. If anyone wanted to, I think it would be fun!

14. What's your all-time favorite ship?

I seriously could not pick just one. I am a multi-shipper, even within my current fandom, but gun to my head I prefer reading and writing Rulie more than anything, with PeterPatterLina being a very close second.

15. What's a WIP you want to finish but doubt you will?

I have far too many WiPs and it has been a hot second since I touched any of them. At this point my trope bingo fic is pretty much dead, but maybe I’ll come back to it one day.

16. What are your writing strengths?

Endings apparently. It’s the thing I get complimented on the most.

17. What are your writing weaknesses?

Grammar, spelling, and editing.

18. Thoughts on writing dialogue in another language in fic?

Have done it before, and actually start doing Spanish in DuoLingo to be better about it, but I suck at conjugating verbs so that fell by the wayside. I mostly only use it for pet names.

19. First fandom you wrote for?

Trigun, a very very bad smut fic. After that Teen Titans because I fell in love with the Raven/Beast Boy ship. Those fics all still exist on my ff.net account if you find it, and my fave TT fic is on my AO3.

20. Favorite fic you've written?

But came the dawn obviously. Also So Close, and Yellow Wood all hold a piece of my heart. But if I were to pick the fic of mine that I re-read the most it’s For better or for worse my accidentally married demisexual Rulie fic that is exceptionally smutty and the best example of idiots to lovers there is.

Thanks for the tags, sorry I took so long. Tagging anyone who wants to play!

[devondespresso]

<< Asks temporarily turned off so i can try actually getting through all the fundraiser messages, I'm sorry >>

Hey babes and non-babes alike, I'm Devon (or Dev, or Devi, or whatever fun nickname comes to mind!!) (Devonias on ao3) and I'm working on actually posting my writings! Any anti and nsfw reblogs get tagged accordingly, have fun and thanks for dropping by!! 💕

(non-screenshot) dividers by the awesome @/saradika-graphics!!

Tags

(currently under revision?? idk im working it out)

#devon's writing rambles - aka: shitposting

#devon's steve henderson au - for snippets of (and occasional rambles about) this long-fic specifically!

#devon's writings - for actually posted fics

#devon's drabbles - for fics under 500 words

#devon thinks sometimes - original post tag for anything that comes from my brain

#devon creates sometimes - a tag i genuinely forgot i made, for artsy craftys

#shit you can use if you wanna - screenshots, dividers, and whatever else I've got that i think would be useful

#devon's random fic recs - stranger things fic recs shared "randomly" as i stumble across them! plus a Masterlist here!

Chaptered Fics

• more than 10k words •

We'll Be Alright (aka The Steve Henderson AU) - | ~90k so far | Mature | ao3 link (to be added once posted)

Light of my life, the peanut butter to my jelly, my favorite project, and yet: no chapters officially posted. BUT you can find all the little snippets and rambles about it under the tag. i have a longer explanation of what it is and why its not posted here but basically i can promise you that there will 100% be content posted no matter what (so that entire word count, updated regularly, exists and will be shared eventually 💕)

Oneshots

• between 500 and 10k words •

My Sunshine - | Steve Harrington & Claudia Henderson | 815 words | G | ao3 link | cw: referenced dysfunctional family and child neglect, mild blood

Steve isn't eight years old. And he definitely isn’t 8 years old. He's nineteen, too close to twenty, sitting in the doorway of a room that isn't his, in a house he didn’t grow up in, stopping himself from getting comfortable leaning back on a door frame despite the current strain in his back, because it would only hurt the wound there more.

Ficlet for the stwg prompt "Sunshine" that turned out better than I could have imagined! Quiet, serious, and emotional, it's definitely my favorite posted work so far!

Just Let Me Come Home - | Stomarol | 2850 words | T | ao3 link | cw: very minor implied child neglect

Steve opens his eyes, glances towards Hopper and finds him looking out into the dark ahead, warily. Steve follows his gaze, and his stomach turns. There’s a powder blue convertible stalling in front of his house—roof uncharacteristically up and hiding the interior—haphazardly parked half off the road. The people in the front seat are arguing, and there’s smoke billowing out the back still like they’re ready to take off at any second. Hop rolls closer, headlights lighting up everything. Steve leans forward to get a better look, and Tommy’s face turns around in the driver’s seat to look back at them.

A very late gift fic for the lovely @/momotonescreaming following the STWG prompt "Home"! Serious hurt/comfort with a sweet and hopeful ending, I ended up spending over three weeks getting this just the way I wanted and now I'm super happy with it!

I Can Only Hope Now (Claudia Henderson Drabble) - | Claudia Henderson; Steve & Dustin | 1269 words | G | ao3 link | cw: absent father, brief references to Steve’s absent parents

Claudia Edine Henderson never wanted to get married. Not really. But she wanted kids, so that meant either getting married or seeing if the daycare was hiring. Anthony Laurence Goldman wanted a family. She thought that meant the same thing, so they married. And it was good. They had a beautiful baby boy, Dustin Clarence Goldman, healthy save for a defect with his bones. No collarbones, and the high chance he’d need a little extra medical attention down the line, but he’d still be living long and happy, and she couldn’t ask for more. 

short and sweet ficlet for the stwg prompt "Claudia", because how could I refuse Claudia?? Sweet, relatively light, half-backstory with a cute and hopeful ending, it didn't take as many hours as My Sunshine, but I still love it!

Mr. Crayola Henderson - | Steve & Dustin | 1791 words | T | ao3 link | just swearing and super mild ableism? a side character is a little too pitying but shes also kinda just a general worrier

Steve went over to the media room and dug through the little bin of batteries under the phone, pulling out an opened pack that had just enough left. He took both aids off, changed the batteries, and put them back on to make sure they worked. He heard a strong thud from his bedroom, followed by muttering.

so far my silliest ficlet, using the prompt "Tell a story to stay out of trouble", set in an au where Steve is hoh from canon events and was adopted by the Hendersons! featuring brothers goofing off, cousins getting up to trouble, and the titular Mr. Crayola Henderson!

Since We're Alive Now - | Chrissy Cunningham and Eddie Munson | 5843 words | T | ao3 link (soon) | cw: referenced/implied self-image issues, swearing, brief references to physical injury, strong self criticism, and canon typical tone in some areas but with happy ending

summary and little spiel at the bottom coming eventually soon eventually

Never Again - | Nancy Wheeler and Steve Harrington (post s1 stancy) | ~3k | Explicit for a little on-screen sexual content | ao3 link | cw: implied past SA

Never Again (Mature) - | ao3 link |

Nancy is trying to have a good time with her boyfriend after their November from hell. It would be a lot easier if the last time they did this wasn't the same night her best friend died, but she needs the break to avoid those thoughts, even just for a night. Apparently, she doesn't get a choice.

My one and only Explicit fic for the foreseeable future because I really wasn't actually ready to write this one anyway. For anyone that doesn't want the sexual themes, the M version replaces the opening sex with barely a makeout, with everything else nearly identical! Also my first fic posted like ever! yay!

Drabblessss

• fics less than 500 words •

cause idk im the kinda guy that doesn't really scroll blog tags, i find masterlists helpful so I'm using both and you can pick your poison.

all drabbles under #devon's drabbles and listed out here. the tag is chronological and the pinned list is with blatant favoritism

Chicken Noodle Oops! - | G | Steve & Dustin | 126 words | ao3

Sweet and Spicy | G | Steddie | 384 words | ao3

Restless (Ed, go to fucking sleep) | G | Steddie | 431 words | ao3

Surprise, Bitch Babe! | T | Steddie | 691 words (i know it breaks the "drabble" category im sorry its just got drabble vibes) | ao3 pending

(all ao3 posts are archive locked to avoid scraping, sorry for the inconvenience)

[greypetrel]

WIP (almost) Wednesday!

Tagged by @shivunin (thank you! <3), I could wait a hour to post it and make it a WIP Wednesday but I'm bound from here to finish another prompt, SO.

Tagging @melisusthewee (beating you on time for once) and @star--nymph. Again, don't worry if you want to ignore this! And if you're not tagged but would love to: say Friends and enter (and consider yourself tagged).

So, it's been a hectic week work-wise and I don't have much new to show, so I'll go for the list as well...

Dragon Age:

- Home Was Never on the Ground: AKA the Monster Fic. I'm slowly making my way up Chapter 26, I'm being slower because this is following an idea that got discarded by the writers but that I found cool. I just need to cause an explosion and convince Aisling to please wait before pestering Solas with much overdued questions, and maybe I could edit and post it.

- DadWolf AU: I'm writing here and there, but I'm containing myself if not for prompts. I would really like to make this more structured than not Monster fic, and before starting I want to have the full picture outlined. The thing that I'm still mulling over is the villain: I'd love to just... Keep Corypheus away and make it more a "Mages vs Non-Mages" thing as in DA2. I just need to settle all the pieces of the puzzles together and it's where we're getting quite different from the game. Solas is in the open with people close to him (Varric knows he's the DreadWolf, Aisling and Dorian got told when they got big enough, Malcolm knew as well and I suppose the other Hawkes too), the main issue will be the Venatori trying to get their hands on Fen'Harel Orb. Again, I still need to pin point some things but we're getting there, I have a rough outline.

- DA2: I've been pondering over whether to make an anthological AO3 collection of DA2 ficlets. Which may even bring me to write more about it without prompts, but take this with a grain of salt. I add below a stamp of a WIP I've been working on and I am stressing over. Following @ndostairlyrium (tag! You're it! AH!) suggestions over colouring and trying to put it into practice. Picture me screaming internally and I may or may not have done the shading twice. (and using too many levels forgive me Ali for my colouring loco)

Originals:

- The Last Bacchae: It's been THE YEAR since September, but I'm finally -hopefully- getting my shit together and going forward with Chapter 6. It's an urban fantasy, main character Seren litterally stumbled over Dionysos (THE Dionysos) and got a contract as an intern Bacchae. Her family may not be entirely happy about it. Chapter 6: we're camping at Hephaistos' house, he's of course extremely happy to have 4 of his siblings around and 2 mortal teens there (he's the only one who cooks, go figure). Right now Seren is making friends with him on being two grumpy introverts, good at their passions enough to result annoying for all the family. You could read it here if you're curious: @thelastbacchae

- Till Queendom Come: I blocked myself writing a chapter which was honestly more than I could chew. I have primary sources I'm following, but between the crippling doubt over whether I'm reading them good and the extreme unpleasantness of this particular bunch of research... I'm kinda blocked. I'm slowly making my way up and I miss 5 pages to end this chapter. Still I'm quite tearing my hair off over it and crying because half of the time I feel like I'm the wrong person to write this story, the other half I'm quite in love with it and want to go on. Busy period doesn't help. I'll get there... Slowly.

[lumosatnight]

Fantastic February Fests and Where to Find Them 2022!

Happy Valentine's Day! To commemorate this weird ass holiday where we celebrate people getting it on in honor of St. Valentine, a Christian martyr and also the patron saint of epilepsy and beekeeping (who knew), I'd like to hype some of the fests/challenges going on in February. I was going to do a fic rec list but there's just too damn many.

(Since HP is my main fandom, these will all be HP focused or open for HP submissions)

😍 Fluffy 🥵 Sexy 💀 Can include dark content (mind the tags)

Daily Prompt Challenges

@fluffbruary 😍🥵 — Tumblr

Focus: fluff/sweet, What: daily prompt, Who: all fandoms Note: General gooey feelings and so sugary you'll want to brush your teeth after. Including star gazing, braces, and heavenly kisses. (Some works contain smut)

@kinkuary 🥵💀 — Tumblr | AO3 | Previous

Focus: kink/sex, What: daily prompt, Who: all fandoms Note: All of the prompts and works for this are FIRE, ranging from voyeurism to lingerie to tentacles, there's a kink for everyone. (Watch out for Non-con tags)

@febuwhump 💀 — Tumblr

Focus: whump/angst, What: daily prompt, Who: all fandoms Note: If you like suffering characters, kidnappings, breakdowns, and hurt/comfort, then this fest is it. (Beware of possibly triggering topics)

@februaryficletchallenge 😍🥵💀 — Tumblr | AO3 | Previous

Focus: ficlets, What: daily prompt, Who: all fandoms Note: Get a daily prompt and write a double drabble. Including Space AUs, intoxication, telepathy, accidental marriage, and more! Not a lot of HP fics yet, so now's the perfect time to start. (Content varies by work. Mind the tags)

@femslashfeb 😍🥵 — Tumblr

Focus: FEMSLASH, What: daily prompt, Who: all fandoms WLW Note: We love women in love! Find stories about clouds, mermaids, feathers, and more! (Some works contain smut)

@hpshipuary 😍🥵💀 — Tumblr | AO3

Focus: various HP ships, What: daily prompt, Who: HP fandom Note: Each day there are 3 separate ship prompts. So many new and interesting ships to explore! (Content varies by work. Mind the tags)

@hdcandyheartsfest 😍🥵 — Tumblr | AO3 | Week 1 | Week 2

Focus: Drarry fluff, What: daily prompt, Who: HP fandom Draco/Harry Note: Get your sweet sweet Drarry fix. "Darling," chocolate, picnics, and all things fluff... what more could you want? (Some works contain smut)

Other Challenges

Femslash February 😍🥵💀 — Tumblr | AO3 (@hpfemslash-minifest)

Focus: HP femslash, What: monthly prompt, Who: HP fandom WLW only Note: This month's prompt is LOVE SONGS. There are some FANTASTIC stories already. Go check them out! (Content varies by work. Mind the tags)

Valentine's Day Challenge 😍🥵 — Tumblr | AO3 (@wolfstarwritingchallenges)

Focus: Wolfstar fluff, What: prompt list, Who: HP fandom Sirius/Remus Note: Choose from a list of 10 Valentine's Day prompts ranging from bakery AUs to candelight and karaoke. Collection is open for posting until Feb 28. (Some works contain smut)

Candy Hearts Challenge 😍🥵 — Tumblr | AO3 | Previous (@goodboylupin)

Focus: Wolfstar, What: assigned prompt, Who: HP fandom Sirius/Remus Note: Get assigned a candy heart prompt (ex: BE MINE or EW NO) and create whatever you want! There's already some really cute works in the collection. (Some works contain smut)

Wolfstar Creators Love Letters 😍 — Tumblr (@wolfstar-in-color)

Focus: Wolfstar creators, What: thank-you letters, Who: HP fandom Sirius/Remus Note: This is NOT a standard writing challenge but a way to show appreciation for your favorite Wolfstar writers/artists for the AMAZING work that they do. Send them a thank-you letter and spread the love! Running through Feb 20.

Exchanges

HP Sweethearts 😍🥵 — Dreamwidth | AO3 | Previous

Focus: HP droubles, What: closed AO3 exchange, Who: HP fandom Note: Read over 100 droubbles about romance, anniversaries, sweethearts, and Valentine's Day! Collection is revealed for viewing. (Some works contain smut)

Chocolate Box 😍🥵💀 — Dreamwidth | AO3 | Previous

Focus: ficlets, What: closed AO3 exchange, Who: All fandoms Note: Open to all fandoms and ships with over 900 works and 500 participants! If you missed sign-ups this year, then go mark those calendars RIGHT NOW. Collection is revealed for viewing. (Content varies by work. Mind the tags)

Minifests & Collections

Love Fest 😍🥵💀 — Facebook | AO3

Focus: HP rare pairs, What: OPEN AO3 collection, Who: HP fandom rare pairs Note: There are currently over 300 works and counting of HP rare pair stories. Love, confessions, humor, murder... you want it, it's probably here. Collection is run through Fairest of the Rare FB group. (Content varies by work. Mind the tags)

A Devious & Diverse New Year 😍🥵 — Tumblr | AO3 (@kinksofknockturnalley)

Focus: kink/sex, What: closed AO3 collection, Who: HP fandom Note: Celebrating body positivity and sex positivity! Come read some sexy and delightful works! (YKINMKATO. Be mindful of tags)

Awkward Sex Fest 😍🥵 — AO3 (@aedwritesfic)

Focus: awkward sex, What: closed AO3 collection, Who: HP fandom Note: Smut fest celebrating the awkward, embarrassing, and sweet side of sex. Lovely and hilarious. (All works contain smut)

Twice Your Age Plus Seven Fest 😍🥵💀 — Twitter | AO3

Focus: HP age gaps, What: closed AO3 collection, Who: HP fandom age gaps Note: Age is just a number. Find fics with all your favorite age gap ships (looking at you all you cross-gen shippers). Collection is revealed for viewing. (Content varies by work. Mind the tags)

HMS Harmony Valentine's Day Fest 😍🥵 — Tumblr | AO3 | Previous (@hms-harmony-discord)

Focus: Harmony, What: closed AO3 collection, Who: HP fandom Harry/Hermione Note: Read about Valentine's Day fluff or sexy fun or both between Harry and Hermione. Collection is revealed for viewing. (Some works contain smut)

Nott Another Love Story 😍🥵💀 — Tumblr | AO3 (@the-house-of-nott)

Focus: Theodore Nott, What: closed AO3 collection, Who: HP fandom Theo Note: Valentine's Day fest centered around one of our favorite Slytherins! Collection posting until Feb 28. (Content varies by work. Mind the tags)

My Bloody Valentine 💀 — Tumblr | AO3 | Previous (@hpdarkarts)

Focus: HP dark romance, What: OPEN AO3 collection, Who: HP fandom Note: Focusing on the dark side of relationships and romance, these works are deliciously dirty, angsty, and disturbing. Usually not HEA. Collection is open for posting until Feb 20. (Beware of possibly triggering topics)

@eatyourheartoutfest 💀💀💀— Tumblr | AO3

Focus: HP dead dove fics, What: closed AO3 collection, Who: HP fandom Note: The darkest, most depraved fics with no redeeming qualities. Come glory in your worst nightmares and absolutely disturbing stories. Collection is revealed for viewing. (BEWARE OF TRIGGERING TOPICS)

(If I've missed any lmk! Thanks @greenmegsnoham for the title!)

[earnestly-endlessly]

Hi! I'm wondering if you can make a list of fics where Erik's jewish heritage isn't ignored? I just came across the fact that a lot of authors don't explore this part of him for some reason and i found it kinda upsetting so i'm wondering if you have any recs! I liked "As They Kiss, Consume" and "Who Shall be King Hereafter" by sherwoodfox, in case anyone who's reading this ask is interested in the same topic.

Hi Anon. I'm sorry for taking so long with this list but your request sent me on a wide search for fics that fit with your request. I tried to find a variety of fics where Erik's Jewish heritage is addressed. Some of them aren't necessarily cherik, but most of them are. I hope you enjoy this list.

Mistletoe, Latkes, and Long-Term Revenge Strategies – pocky_slash

Summary: Charles knows that Erik hates working at a department store in the best of times. Being Jewish in a department store during the holiday season is far from the best of times. He does what he can to help.

A Nice Boy (the Family Matters Edition) – pocky_slash

Summary: Erik's not sure whether the problem is that he doesn't want his parents to meet Charles or that he doesn't want Charles to meet his parents. Either way, he never invites Charles to brunch. Why should he? It's not like they're dating.

A Road Trip to Pennsylvania – Aainiouu

Summary: For a year Charles has nurtured the biggest and most embarrassing crush known to man towards Erik. They are friends and roommates and when Erik asks Charles to accompany him to home on Thanksgiving of course Charles goes.

In the Bleak Midwinter – keire_ke

Summary: It is not easy to find out, well into the second decade of the twenty-first century, that your mother arranged a marriage for you. It is even less easy to convince her that you have no interest in the very fertile Magda, she of the wide hips and lustrous auburn hair. Fortunately, with a good friend at his side over the holiday weekend, Erik is sure he will prevail.

Speech Making – phalangine

Summary: Modern Emma AU- Charles Xavier, accomplished matchmaker and headmaster of North America’s preeminent school for mutants, intends to add another notch to his belt: setting up his friend Moira. His oldest friend, Erik, has doubts about this plan.

Charles doesn’t share them.

This is life (and everything’s all right) – pocky_slash

Summary: Edie Lehnsherr came into Charles' life long before he ever heard Erik Lehnsherr's name, and her death left a gaping hole in the lives of everyone in Charles' family. As the first Purim without her approaches, he begins to get creative in his efforts to bring everyone out of their grief. Kitchen creativity, however, is not quite his strength....

Bashert – AvengingAngel

Summary: Erik and Charles meet and fall in love. I wanted to write a story where Erik had a huge family. Pretty fluffy (for me anyways). I suck at summaries.

Note: The summary doesn’t reveal much but if you’re looking for a fic where Erik is jewish and has a large family with a heavy dose of cherik fluff and angst then this one is for you.

Math Reasons – pearl_o,  pocky_slash

Summary: "Mom says Erik always knows what he wants, it just sometimes takes him a little while to actually realize it," Ruth said.

Charles fell in love with Erik the first night they met, the first week of freshman year. Two years of friendship, adventures, arguments, hijinks, secrets, and summer visits later, Erik is starting to catch up.

Ser

It’s kind of our whole things – pearl_o, pocky_slash

Summary: After two years of best friendship, Charles and Erik thought they knew everything there was to know about each other. They're surprised, then, when their first summer as a couple reveals that they have a lot to learn about each other and themselves.

Sequel to Math Reasons

A Winter in New York – nextraordinaire

Summary: Charles and Erik have been childhood friends for as long as they can remember – Erik, living with his mother in Queens, and Charles in the big mansion in Westchester. For all, expect themselves, it was just natural progression that they'd end up together.

A series of ficlets from the same universe – can be read as separate and are out of chronological order.

Baby, It’s Cold Outside – heyjupiter

Summary: "It's just, this is my first Chanukah away from my parents. And it's--it's like 90 degrees out."

Erik Lehnsherr and Kitty Pryde celebrate a Genoshan Chanukah. It's a little different from the way it used to be in New York, but some unexpected visitors help them embrace the spirit of the holiday season.

Hold Back the Rain (front!strict mashup) – euphorbic

Summary: Charles Xavier: society darling, powerful political activist, well-known professor, and Dominant.

Erik Lehnsherr: anti-social, international motorcycle racer, and defiant submissive.

Erik is at Sepang in Malaysia for the fourteenth leg of the International World Championship. After doing poorly in qualifying, he's furious to find he has to take another VIP around the track instead of meeting Charles at the KL airport.

The Swan – waitfornight

Summary: In 1939 Erik and his sister Ruth are sent to Devonshire, England, during the Kindertransport refugee program to live with Kurt and Sharon Marko as foster children just before the start of World War II. Angry and wishing he could return home on the night of his seventeenth birthday, Erik meets a boy alone in the forest who is cursed to transform each day into a swan, only taking his true form by night.

Swan Lake AU.

The boy with the heart on his sleeve – euphorbic

Summary: Charles loses a high-stakes bet to Raven and is required to get a tattoo. However, when he makes a disparaging remark about the art form, Raven's acerbic mentor, Erik, steps in.

Or, the one where Erik and Raven are tattoo artists.

The Wurst Case Scenario – sareyen

Summary:If anyone asked why Charles, come rain, wind or shine, made the significant trek during his dismal lunch hour to dine at "Edie's Kosher Delicatessen", he would stubbornly say that it was because their pastrami on rye and potato knishes were absolutely to die for. He wasn't completely lying, because the deli's namesake, Edie Lehnsherr, made the best matzah ball soup Charles has ever had in his life. Still, Charles would rather shave his full head of hair off than admit that the real reason he would willingly walk through hail and fire to get to the corner deli was because of Erik, the insanely attractive man working the counter.

Sure, Erik has barely spoken two words to Charles other than "Hello, what can I get you?" or, after the third day in a row that Charles came to the deli, "Welcome back, what can I get you?", but Charles was more than happy to just ogle at the man from afar while devouring the juicy wurst Erik had put together with his (large and very capable) hands.

But, little does Charles know, Erik doesn't usually work the front counter. He only does it when he knows the cute blue-eyed man will be dining in.

This is life (and everything’s all right) – pocky_slash

Summary: Edie Lehnsherr came into Charles' life long before he ever heard Erik Lehnsherr's name, and her death left a gaping hole in the lives of everyone in Charles' family. As the first Purim without her approaches, he begins to get creative in his efforts to bring everyone out of their grief. Kitchen creativity, however, is not quite his strength....

c'est regarder ensemble dans la même direction – melonbutterfly

Summary: Since that day on the beach, Charles and Erik have learned to agree to disagree for the sake of living and working together. Then, for Christmas, and Charles gives Erik Hanukkah back a second time, and their relationship shifts a little further.

Terrible Hanukkah Sweaters and Other Life Challenges – professor

Summary: “Why am I here again?” Erik groans.

“I need you to lift things and glower at people over my shoulder when I tell people that it’s not ‘politically correct’ or a ‘war on Christmas’ to have a non-denominational winter holiday festival,” says Theresa Pryde.

Well, at least those are two things he’s good at.

Shrapnel – librata

Summary: It's late 1940, and tensions between the Axis and the Allies are tightening. Displaced and alone, 16-year-old German Jew Erik Lehnsherr finds himself employed as a servant by some snobby, terrible family in England whose house is far too big and whose money never seems to end. The worst part is, he isn't just mucking stables or cleaning plates–-he's tasked with tending to the whiny, disabled son named Charles, who might just drive Erik into absolute madness.

Or, the World War II fic in which Erik and Charles experience a changing world and a lot of teen angst.

Defying Expectations – Baamon5evr

Summary: Charles and Erik meet each other’s family. Neither of them gets what they expect.

table for three – pocky_slash

Summary: Erik should have known to call ahead to the Chinese restaurant--it's Christmas Eve and he lives in a predominantly Jewish neighborhood, after all. But before he can go home to mourn the loss of another one of his mother's yearly traditions, he's accosted by a teenage girl with a strange proposition--that he should stay and have dinner with her and her mother, instead.

different from all other nights – metonymy

Summary: "This year we are slaves; next year we will be free." Kitty and Erik host a seder for Passover at the Xavier School.

Libertad – ariadnes_string

Summary: Erik knew the look, had seen it his whole life, even before the war.  ”You, with your height and blue eyes and straight nose, you can pass. You can be free of us. You are not marked with your difference.” If you only knew, he’d thought then. He thought the same thing now. And it was that thought, as much as anything, that made him move towards the gate.

Wash Away – sebastian2017

Summary: One quiet, lonely morning, before Yom Kippur, Erik makes his way to the sea in search of forgiveness.

After? There is No ‘After’ – Unrepentant_Marvelist

Summary: Erik knows what he is for. He has known his responsibilities as a survivor since the moment he woke under a scratchy, lice-infested blanket in the Red Army hospital. His world is painted in lucid blacks and whites (so often splashed in red) and there is no room for uncertainty or indecision... until a certain sunburned Englishman throws himself into his world.

The Children of an Idle Brain – Margo_Kim

Summary: Sometimes, when he’s lucky, Schmidt can’t hurt him. It’s like there’s a room inside of Erik’s head that’s he’s usually locked out of, that won’t open no matter if he beats himself bloody against it. On those days, he endures. But sometimes—and Erik doesn’t know why, whether it’s that the stars align or some higher power takes pity or Erik screams loud enough to earn his reward—the door opens. Erik can duck inside and slam it behind him and watches himself through the windows as Schmidt slowly, methodically tortures him to strength.

These days, this past week, there’s a boy in the room with him and he tells Erik, “That’s horrible,” like that means something.

Somehow, across the world, Erik's and Charles' minds touch when they need each other most. They can't be sure that the other boy is real. They suspect that he is not. But that doesn't mean they aren't each other's lifeline until they lose each other and then for a while longer.

Tehillim – kvikindi

Summary: Erik, in Israel, afterwards: another life he could have had. If.

I fear no fate (for you are my fate, my sweet) – childishinquiry

Summary: Erik has worn long sleeves his whole life, even before they had to wear yellow stars. Marching along his arm, in neat, black, English letters, are the words "My name's Charles Xavier."

Precious Few Years – sherwoodfox

Summary: Erik and Charles (known only to each other by the letters inscribed on their wrists) are meant to be together, soulmates, destined for the most powerful kind of love and connection a human being can experience.

But they are separated in almost every possible way- by distance, by circumstance, by language, by war. Their chances of success- of finding one another in the labyrinth of the world- are very slim. There is a reason why most people never find their soulmates.

But of course, Charles and Erik aren't ordinary children-

They have their gifts.

[viscountessevie]

Beckett Begins

Masterlist | My AO3 A/N: Hello, everyone! I know it's been a minute since I've written for this blog and truth is I got burnt out with school but now I'm back with a piece that is incredibly close to my heart. This ficlet is centred on Sophie and a love letter for those discovering themselves and who they are outside of the usual societal norms with a side of Benophie fluff. I won't say more because I don't want to spoil the surprise.

Also shoutout to @sharmasandcorgis and @missfairygodmother for hearing out my ideas and it was so fun bouncing ideas off each other! And @pensbridgrton for getting me on board the Theo/Ben train and the Trans!Sophie agenda which inspired me to make Trans!Theo an old boyfriend of Ben's.

Happy reading everyone! I hope you enjoy it as much as I loved writing it!!

Ships: Benophie, Past!Grenville/Benedict, Past!Theo/Benedict

[FCs: Elliott Page as Trans!Theo and Ian Alexander as Sophie]

Benedict wasn't picky when it comes to dating - he has dated them all since he was 16. Men, women and everyone in between. However there's only three times Benedict would ever say he was in love - or at least thought so for the first two times. #1: It's debatable whether this person would be his first love considering the original power dynamics. As a junior in college, Benedict applied to be a Art History TA for one Professor Henry Grenville. Professor Grenville served as Benedict's mentor all the way to graduation. A couple of years later, once Benedict was settled into the postgraduate program, did they reconnect. It was a whirlwind romance that all the summer romance songs could be written about. As we all know, winds merely breeze through for a period of time and eventually dies down. As did their romance. ~~~ #2: In his mid twenties, Benedict was able to secure a day job as a museum curator to get his foot in into the art world and potentially get exposure for his own art works down the line. That's when he met Theo Sharpe, a graphic designer and the Musuem's Head of Marketing. Or rather re-met him. Benedict had known Theo under a different name and gender. Theo had quite the laugh when it finally registered to Benedict they had been acquaintances in high school. Eventually,  they realised they had different priorities in life and parted ways amicably. They still are friends today.

~~~ #3: She might be the third person he's fallen for but in his heart, Sophie Beckett will always be first. His great forever love. Anyone who knows them knows how they met. Sophie was new to town and was searching for temp jobs in the local newspaper when she saw an ad for an au pair placed by one Mrs. Kate Bridgerton-Sharma. After the first interview and meeting the children who loved her, Sophie quickly became a part of the Bridgerton-Sharma family unit. Benedict met her a few weeks later when visiting his nephews and nieces. The rest as they say is history. We all know that story, this isn't that story. Benedict has known all his life he would date anyone regardless of gender so he didn't bat an eye when the love of his life came out to him as non-binary. ~~~ Sophie Beckett never really thought about their gender. They have always felt like they had followed society's expectations for what it meant to be a woman or a feminine person. Not to mention they were too busy trying to find a way out of their stepmother's guardianship, to even think about who they were. But now after all these years, they were happy and healthy. Safe with Benedict and were able to explore themselves. They remember the moment it dawned on them that they realised they didn't quite align with being a woman. They were watching a couple of YouTube videos and one of their favourite content creator was talking about how they realized they were non-binary. In that moment, it clicked for them. Hearing another non-binary person talking about their experience contextualised their own experience. They hated how Araminta would have to force them into dresses when they preferred something more neutral. Or how they were shamed by Posy for wanting their hair just a little too short and 'boyish' at times. Every choice they ever wanted to make with their appearance was shamed and their femininity felt so performative and exhausting. They wanted to exist without labels and binaries. They were too busy trying to get out of their situation with Araminta that it never occurred them that they could fall outside of the binary scale. Until now. And the next step was telling Benedict. For some reason, they were nervous. Fiddling with their fingers, their voice was shaky. They knew Benedict was bi, but still was unsure how he would take it. "Ben, I think I might be non-binary." He looked up casually from his painting, "That's great, love. What are your pronouns?" "Can we try out they/them? I've always just felt neutral and indifferent to she/he." "Sure. How do you like the sound of this; Sophie is the best person ever. They are the love of my life." He declares it proudly. It was amazing to them how one change of pronouns could do wonders to affirm their gender. Although Sophie...it didn't quite fit anymore. It was lovely name but just wasn't theirs any no longer. It felt like a relic of the unhappy times in their life before the Bridgertons. He catches them frowning and raises any eyebrow, "What's wrong, love?" "Sophie...it doesn't feel like me. There's a lot of pain attached to it." "Maybe we can find you a new one?" He pulls out his phone and starts tapping away. He sets down his painting and crosses the room to go sit next to them. The two of them spend the afternoon scrolling through names and testing them out. They mentioned wanting to keep an S name, just a little small part of their old self. So they looked through the S section of gender neutral names. "Sabin? Sy? Sydnee?" "I like them but they aren't quite fitting." "Maybe another initial letter?" Benedict ponders out loud. They consider it. They took a few days to ponder on it. They looked through their memory box of various momentos they managed to save before leaving her stepfamily behind. While shifting through the things, they found a picture of their mother. Running their fingers across the photo, they are struck by how much they looked like their mother. No wonder Father never acknowledged them. Then just like that, it came to them. Beckett. Their only connection to a mother they

never knew but still missed and loved. They immediately went to call Benedict. "Benny, I think I've found it!" He knew what exactly what they were talking about. "Ooh, pray tell what is it, dear?" "Beck."

[theroomofreq]

Feb 2021 Fic Recs

I AM JUST REALLY PASSIONATE ABOUT FANFICTION, OKAY.

I didn’t have as much time to read fanfic this month, but I still want to share the stories I fell in love with. There are so so many good fics out there, and I wish I had time for them all! Here is a list of the fanfic that I read this month and truly adore. 

A majority of my reading this month was spent on Fem!Jily fics! Which I LOVED. I whole heartedly rec every single one!! There is a collection on AO3 of all of the fics written if you are interested! This list would be AGES longer if I added all of those gems. Trust me they are SO worth it! 

Below the cut are 20 wonderful fics. Happy reading my friends!!

Romione Fics

Who He'd Miss Most by @ashotofogdensoldfirewhiskey 

T 2k // I CAN’T EXPRESS ENOUGH LOVE FOR THIS FIC.  This missing moment is just brilliant. RON is fantastic in it, written so well. The Harry & Ron BROTP gives me too many emotions. The Romione vibes are spot on. I read this three times before I could find words to leave a review. I plan to read this one again and again and again. 

A Crown of Violets by katsala

T 2k // A fem!romione story? Yes! Please! I adore the way that Ron, (who is named Ginny) is written in this story. It’s very very very good. 

Hinny Fics

The Potters and the Weasleys by @goodlifewrites 

G 82k // The latest chapter of this fic dropped while I was brushing my teeth. I immediately sat on the floor and read it, toothbrush still in my mouth. AND ITS FAB. The way this story is written is just next level. The characterization, plot, writing style? Everything is INCREDIBLE. I’m in love. 

Am I Your Lockscreen? by @narukoibito 

T 1k // The moment I got the email about this fic I stopped everything to read it. I laughed through the entire thing. Not going to lie, I’ve probably read it 5 times since it was posted. The dynamic of the characters is fantastic. Harry in this is just top notch.

Ginevra by @clarensjoy 

T 3k // I am really emotional about this story. Every scene in this story hit me hard. I desperately wanted more, but it was so so perfectly transitioned to the next scene. I love my girl Ginny and I ADORE this story. 

borrow the moonlight by @could-have-beens 

G 700 words // I talked about this fic earlier this month, but it deserves to be rec’d 100 more times. Every time I read it I am super emotional about the way Hinny’s relationship is portrayed. :’) 

out the window by @displayheartcode 

G 500 words // EVERY TIME ONE OF THESE LITTLE MASTERPIECES IS DROPPED ON ME IT LIVES IN MY HEAD FOR WEEKS. THIS ONE IS AT THE TOP OF MY BRAIN ALL THE TIME. MIGHT ABANDON ALL MY WIPS AND JUST WRITE ABOUT THIS AU NON STOP. 

He looks at her and sees the rest of his life by @fightfortherightsofhouseelves 

G 700 words// This little gem makes me so emotional about Hinny. I love the way Harry thinks about/describes/loves Ginny. It’s this really powerful little love story that turns me into an absolute sap. 

take what i took and give it back to you by fairytiger 

T 4k // One of the first stories I read after retuning to fandom last year. I’ve probably read it 7+ times. A favorite go to fic. I came back to it this month because I think about it every other week. Ginny in this story is so clearly written and characterized. OH I LOVE IT. 

trouvaille by @gryffindormischief 

G 6k // The way that Harry was written in this story stayed with me for long after I read it. It is so so so perfectly Harry that it kills me. Musician Harry? YES PLEASE!

Jily Fics

Shelf Awareness by @ghostofbambifanfiction 

M 28k // HOW COME NO ONE TOLD ME ABOUT THIS. WHY DID YOU ALL JUST LET ME STUMBLE ON THIS BY MYSELF. I can’t even begin to talk about this fic. Bookstore AU? Sold. Dorky James? Sold. Pining Lily? Sold. Oh it is so so beyond good. I know I am so so late to this party, but it’s just unreal. 

to be always kind and true by @clare-with-no-i 

G 2k // You know that moment when you read a fic by an author and then you ignore everything and consume every story they have?? Yeah, I did that after reading this fic. The characterization alone could kill me. Not to mention the writing style. FAB.

they loved. by @mppmaraudergirl

T 400words// I read this little ficlet about 7 times hoping that there would be more each time I got to the end. It always stopped in the same place and broke my heart every time. It’s soooooo gorgeous I can’t stop thinking about it. 

bisous, bisous by @clare-with-no-i 

G 1k // When you read this fic it’s like you are actually in the story. The atmosphere is so powerful. It’s just this brilliant piece of art that makes want to curl up and read it under a cozy blanket. 

The Fabulous Baker Brothers by @frustratedpoetwrites 

T 8k // This fic has me running to a bakery every time I think about it. I love the characterization in this story. OH how I love Lily in this fic, she is just wonderful. And of course, I am a huge sucker for a well written Remus. 

Summer Girl by @efkgirldetective

E 41k // I dare you to find a more lyrically written first person narrative. NOT POSSIBLE. This story is flat out gorgeous and I am very much obsessed with it. One Sunday night I found out I didn’t have to go into work the next day so I immediately started this fic and didn’t stop until I finished it at 2am. 

Earthquake Drills by @efkgirldetective 

M 132k WIP// After finishing Summer Girl at 2am, I read this story until 5:30 am. I got 4 hours of sleep and then woke up and read it more. I crave dynamic characters the way Efk wrote them in this story. It is just WOW. 

Other Fics

see where you hide by @alrightginger 

T 1k // When a George/Harriet fic is posted I RUN. I love love love fiery Fem!Harry. And I love the way that this story pans out, wonderful. Give me all the Fem!Harry. 

And We Are In Bed Together, Laughing by nevernevergirl  @yorkesteins

T 3k // The Remus/Tonks fic of my dreams. This fic is a collection of missing moments that tells their story. I fell in love with the writing style and the way that these two are written. GORGEOUS. 

 Miasma by @medric

T 5k // This story hit me so hard, it’s the type that gives you heart ache in the most beautiful way. It’s the story of Remus’ life, the two wars and who he loves. Wolfstar and Remadora. I’ll be thinking about it non-stop for the next month. 

[thedrarrylibrarian]

I’m so excited to share something a little bit different for Happy Hour today! A fellow Drarry Rec Blog, @sitp-recs graciously agreed to host today’s Happy Hour! So I get to sit back and relax as she shares her thoughts about a fic that made her happy this week!

Sitp recommenced the Autumn Drarry Drabbles series by @peachpety (28,483 words total, rating varies from G to E).

Without further ado, I’m going to take off my hosting responsibilities, pour a butterbeer, and let Sitp tell you about the fic herself! Here’s what she had to say:

I’ve been wanting to rec this fantastic collection for a while because @peachpety delivers the best kind of comfort food and these have been saving me on rough days. So when the lovely Librarian invited me to write this week’s Happy Hour rec I didn’t think twice! I also wanted to take this opportunity to celebrate Peach, not only as a fabulous author who writes masterfully all kinds of genres, but also as one of the kindest members of our community. If it’s up to me, they’ll get all the love and appreciation they deserve!

This autumn drabbles collection is a refreshing and precious gift to the fandom, and everyone going through a busy or stressful week should treat themselves this Friday! The 31 short stories show Harry and Draco falling in love and falling together in the most varied, charming scenarios and I appreciate that many of these stories include their closest friends as a cheerful and supportive crew. The setting, the characterization, the dialogue! Everything is carefully well thought and executed, packing a lot of emotion and character despite the short word count. I’m amazed at peach’s ability to explore so many different prompts going from non-magical AUs to meet-cute and established relationship, always maintaining a light tone and those soft and sexy romance vibes, my favorite brand of Drarry these days. All prompts are autumn-inspired and fill me with gentle warmth, soft nostalgia and bubbling feels. I strongly suggest reading all the ficlets in a row!

I loved collaborating with Sitp for this list because she managed to rec something that I haven’t yet read by an author I also love! And maybe if we ask her nicely, she’ll tell us more about her favorites drabbles from this collection! Definitely go check out her blog and give her lots of love too for being such a fabulous host of this week’s Happy Hour!

❤️ As always, if you find a fic you enjoy, please remember to leave the author a kudos or a comment! ❤️

Lots of Love and Happy Friday!

P.S. You can find this fic and the others that’ve been recommended during Happy Hour in my AO3 Happy Hour Sub-Collection! Or check out our wonderful collaborator’s AO3 list- Sitp’s All-Time Faves!

[kinetic-elaboration]

July 9: Summer Goals Update #1

I actually wrote today, and quite a bit, so I feel like I’m entitled to an update, such as it is.

Progress on writing goals:

Southern Gothic AU: I haven’t written anything on this, but a major first step is going through all my scattered notes and consolidating my thoughts. At this point, I’m just too deep in this thing. If I’m going to do it, I want to do it right, which means taking the long route sometimes. It’s harder than I thought it would be, but I did take some time during my vacation to start writing out summaries and arcs for each of the characters. It’s shocking to me both how much I don’t know/have never articulated, and how some new things become so clear as soon as I look at them from a ‘well, what is this character about?’ lens. Still a lot to do here, even before writing, but I’m proud of myself for starting because now I see both that it is possible and that it is helpful.

Troped Chapter 3: What I was working on today. I didn’t want to do it, but I did. Going to try to keep that lesson in mind for future non-deadline projects. I got through half my outline, which is probably something like 40-50% of the total fic by word count. I’m very proud of this. Tomorrow I plan to write (that is, must write) at least up to the last scene. Ideally, I’d write the whole second half of the outline and finish the draft. I think this is plausible. There’s one more major scene left, and it’s the next one up; the others are shorter and simpler, though the last one is also a little vague in my mind right now. The fic is due on Tuesday night but I also have to run errands on Tuesday, which shortens my supply of both evening hours and overall energy. So it would be really great if all I needed to do Monday and Tuesday were to edit and post. Either way, I will have it done by the middle of next week. Goal in sight!

Progress on other writing:

Not on my summer goals list specifically, but also on my radar, I wrote a little Princess Mechanic ficlet earlier this month.

I’ve also been idly planning/brainstorming some fics, including a previously-quite-unlikely, now-semi-plausible horror fic. It’s not on the writing radar for a good long while yet--it’s not even at the top of my scary stories list, at least as of now. But I’m kinda excited about it anyway.

@fontainebleau22

[tennessoui]

what's something you would never write? (can be kink/trope/pairing, etc) i'm just curious bc i don't ever want to ask something you wouldn't be comfy with!

ahh thank you for this ask!! its very sweet of you to check

i do currently have a ton of asks i need to answer and want to answer but i haven't yet because a. i don't want to flood people's dashes by answering like fifteen in a row and b. spend too much of my allotted writing time answering asks because it's so fun and i have no self control so i'd just talk to yall instead and never get any story-writing down on google docs (why i've been working on the last chapter of the firefighter story for like. weeks now rip)

which is all just to say if you've sent one to me recently and then haven't seen it answered, i promise i never delete asks!!! but im really bad at answering them in order because i get a moment of inspo for something I think I can get out really quickly and want to share immediately vs a longer prompt i either don't know what to do with yet or want to spend more time writing/developing a response

that being said, when it comes to stuff i don't write i don't do underage content on this blog, or rape/non-con between the main pairing (though, let's be real i've done quite a few dubious consent ficlets); i try not to character bash (except palpatine he's like the fandom piñata as far as i can tell); i don't write things where they don't end up together because i find that tragically sad tbh; oh and definitely no major character death; i've been toeing the hard porn/nsfw line on this blog but i'm much more comfortable with that stuff on ao3 because i trust their tagging system better (that stuff would be like a bdsm AU or an extension on the first time obi-wan gets his pretty bird to call him daddy in bed) (which is why a lot of the ficlet/prompt fills are much dirtier when i transfer them over)

i'm slowly working myself up to writing actual a/b/o, which i never thought i would tbh so i'm trying to err on the side of caution and give more hard limits here (like the non-con, or the major character death) rather than stuff i haven't tried before because maybe i'd do it in the end y'know?

ah this has gotten so long but ok so lastly i will say when it comes to prompts I think I'm pretty good at adapting a prompt to fit what i like writing/how I view the characters/what strikes my fancy (hopefully in a way that still makes the prompt giver happy) so even if you're a little bit sure i promise I'm never mad or disgusted by any sort of prompt! you just might not end up getting exactly what you expected sometimes 🙈

[lostbutterflyutau]

The Final Touch

Note: This small ficlet is a part of the Mirror World AU and was written for the “Crown” prompt during EoA Appreciation Week 2021. I even decided to leave it vague/non-shippy to be more appealing to the larger fanbase. So you all can put whoever you want with Carla here.

HUGE thanks to my beta for their editing and suggestions during the writing process.

-- “Okay. Turn around,” Rapunzel said as she stood, and stepped back. She waited, watched as Carla obeyed and carefully moved with Rafa’s gentle guidance, her eyes staying closed until the older woman let go of her skirt, the fabric falling perfectly around her feet.

The second she opened her eyes, Carla gasped, hand instinctively coming up to cover her mouth as she took in her reflection. Her eyes roved over every detail. From the veil resting over her beautifully styled hair, down over the intricate beading on the bodice accented with amethyst jewels that matched the spots of colour Rapunzel had worked into the design, and the skirt that flared out just right and ended with an elegant train, everything was perfect.

“I’m a bride,” She finally said after a long silence. There were too many emotions swirling around for her to say much else.

Under the overwhelming feeling that this was not a dream, and she was actually getting married was complete astonishment over her friend’s work. She knew Rapunzel was good – she’d even been asked to design and make costumes for a ballet production and had drawn up some evening wear for one of her boss’ high-end clients – but this was somehow on a separate level from those things. Maybe because it was so personal, or because Carla never imagined she’d ever get to have such a moment, but regardless, she was grateful.

“And you’re gorgeous,” Elena complimented as she carefully adjusted the veil.

Carla looked to Rapunzel, opened her mouth to speak and was interrupted by a knock on the door that Andrea moved to answer, the background noise fading as she drew it open and stepped aside.

Curious, Carla raised her eyes to the mirror, breath catching when she caught the reflection behind her.

“Papá?” She said as she turned towards him, eyes filled with nothing but pure joy as they locked with his.

The second she looked up at him, Victor stopped, took a moment to look her over and absorb the sight and thought of her getting ready to be married. He had always wanted more for her than what he was able to give during her childhood, but also could never shake off the feeling that he might not achieve that goal, not with how they’d had to live their lives for so long. Though he had wanted her to find and marry someone she truly loved the same way he had and even encouraged her to do so if she could, part of him always worried she would end up marrying another thief or even some kind of mob boss for the sake of convenience even though she was better than that. The mere thought used to make him freeze with fear, partly because it would have been a very real possibility had she remained trapped in a life of crime without him to protect her. But now, those feelings were long gone.

Carla had fought hard for the happiness she now had with her husband-to-be, and he was beyond grateful that she had someone so willing to stick with her even when things got tough. He was everything she deserved – loyal, supportive, patient, kind, hardworking, honest. Everything he could ask for in a man poised to marry his daughter. He could only hope she’d made the right choice and would stay as happy as she looked now.

She was truly radiant, looking just as beautiful as her mother had on their wedding day. Of course, their wedding had been far smaller with just the two of them and two other friends of Valeria’s as the only witnesses alongside the official who’d signed their papers, but he still thought she was the most beautiful thing in the world, even in a simple dress and heels. If he was honest, the dress didn’t matter then or now. The most important thing was just how in love Carla looked, her violet eyes shining in the exact same way Valeria’s had.

He stepped forward with a smile, took in a small breath in an attempt to force back his emotions as he took her hands, said, “You look just like your mother.”

Carla squeezed his hands, “I do?”

Victor nodded. “She’s proud of you, you know. We both are.”

Carla smiled at the words, eyes misting over as the weight of them came over her. She then blinked in an effort to push the tears back as she spoke. “Never thought we’d make it this far, did you?”

There was a brief pause as Victor contemplated his answer before admitting, “No. I mean, I wanted so much to give you everything, but back then I…”

He trailed off, took another slow breath. “I worried that I couldn’t. And it wasn’t anything you did. The circumstances were just –”

“Difficult?” Carla finished and he nodded again, the sincere expression on his face threatening to break her resolve of not crying, lest she sacrifice even the touch-up job on her makeup. As hard as it was growing up the way she had, she appreciated everything her father had done for her. It wasn’t surprising to hear he had worried about her, but still hard to think about even with her admiration for him telling the truth.

“But that was then and this is now.” He sighed deeply, his smile returning even wider as he affectionately ran his thumbs over her knuckles.

“And now, you look beautiful. I’ll honestly be shocked if he doesn’t faint when he sees you.”

She laughed. “Did you faint when you saw Mama on your wedding day?”

“Almost,” He admitted, a soft chuckle escaping his own lips when she giggled a second time. “But even that doesn’t compare to being able to see you getting married today. And I’m sure your mother would say the same.”

Unsure of what else to say, Carla simply stood still, cheeks flushing over as her eyes flicked briefly downward and she found herself caught between the embarrassment of being told these things in front of a room full of her friends and the sentiment of the moment, only looking up when another series of knocks sounded.

This time, the person didn’t wait to be let in. The handle clicked before anyone could get to it, revealing both Francisco and Luisa, the latter of which carried a gift box.

Despite the fact that Luisa had a hand in getting Carla ready, both their eyes widened when they fell on her, with Francisco giving a soft gasp at the sight. For a few moments, they could only stare, their smiles widening as they took in the sight of her almost ready to be married.

“Oh, Cariña, you look beautiful,” Francisco complimented. Sure, Luisa had told him that Carla was “stunning”, but actually seeing it was something else. Everything about her seemed to be glowing, but most important was the air of happiness around her that spread all around the room full of people who wished her nothing but the best in this new chapter.

“There’s just one thing missing,” Luisa said, giving a nod and knowing look to her husband, who stepped forward and carefully removed the top of the box by the ribbon, revealing a dark violet pillow with matching trim and a jewel-encrusted tiara that Carla gasped and stared at.

“Wait,” She said, carefully leaning forward for a better look. “I didn’t see this in the treasury.”

Two weeks prior, Elena and Luisa had let her into the Royal Treasury to pick a proper tiara for her wedding as a gift. It hadn’t been the first time she’d ever been loaned jewellery, but the weight of the event and the privilege of being allowed to actually look over and choose something from the royal family’s most precious and expensive pieces had made that time far more special than any other. The piece that was presented to her, however, was not the one she had picked, nor one she even remembered seeing among their beautiful collection of crowns and tiaras. If she had, she surely would have picked it.

“That’s because it wasn’t there,” Luisa said. “We had this made just for today.”

Francisco stepped up behind his wife, set a hand on her shoulder. “Consider it our wedding gift.”

“But… why?” Carla asked as she looked over the intricate design of the tiara, paying special attention to large heart shape in the front that was finished off with a brilliant amethyst gem in the middle that coordinated perfectly with the smaller diamonds – or diamond-like jewels, Carla honestly couldn’t tell – dotted along the silver curves of the piece with a few larger ones placed on the edges.

It was more than perfect. It was her.

“Because you deserve it,” Elena said. “You’ve…”

“Wait,” Carla interrupted, turning to look at her with wide eyes. “You knew about this?”

“Of course I did. Why do you think I spent so much time over in the Mirror World these past few months?”

Carla blinked, the realisation suddenly hitting that Elena had in fact spent more time over there than normal in the past few weeks, which meant that she and her Abuelos weren’t the only ones involved. She then looked at Rapunzel, who nodded.

“And it wasn’t an easy secret to keep, trust me.”

“Rapunzel did the design and her mother helped with the selection and placement of the jewels,” Elena explained. “But the whole thing was Abuela’s idea.”

“We wanted you to have something special for your wedding,” Francisco said.

“Something that was unique and showed how far you’ve come,” Luisa continued for him. “This is a new chapter, after all. One that you’ve fought hard for. You deserve something to show for it.”

“I –” Carla started and then stopped, realised that she didn’t know what to say. The fact that they had even thought about doing something like this was enough to leave her speechless.

Finally, she let out a breath, said the only appropriate thing she could think of, “Thank you.”

She then turned to her father. “Papá?”

Sensing what she wanted, Luisa presented the tiara to Victor. It was considered an honour to crown the bride and no one could think of a better person to do so than the father who had raised her all by himself.

Everyone then watched as he carefully lifted it from the pillow and, when she bowed her head for him, gently set it on top of Carla’s head, giving it one small adjustment before stepping back as she stood straight again, waited for someone to say something, anything as she glanced around the room, tried to make sense of their varied expressions.

Surprisingly, Rafa was the first to speak up. “It’s perfect,” She said.  “I mean, you were pretty before, but this just – ”

“Completes it,” Andrea finished for her.

Carla smiled, felt her cheeks flushing all over again as she turned back to the mirror to look for herself. They were right. With the addition of the tiara, she was perfect.

It was hard to explain why, but somehow, she knew it really was a perfect way to represent her path to this moment. It almost seemed as if the effort put into both her appearance for the day and the construction of the tiara mirrored each other and reflected well the trials she had undergone to reach this moment. Her early life as a travelling thief and later with only her father for company, and then her time in the Mirror World that led her to learning more about life and making friends, followed by the work at the palace that she’d done the past few years on top of all of the other kingdom-threatening and even personal trials she’d faced and overcome along the way – all of it seemed to echo in the careful preparations that had made the day possible. Preparations that were topped off – literally and metaphorically – by the addition of the tiara.

Looking again at the final result of everyone’s hard work in both the setup for the wedding and her own appearance solidified how amazing the day had already turned out and how equally amazing she felt the rest of it and her happy future with her husband would be.

“You’re right,” Carla said, turning back towards the group. “It’s perfect.”

She waited to see if there were any other responses or even looks of objection to either her appearance or her remark on it, but all she found on anyone’s face was pure joy, for both her and the moment they were in. Rapunzel in particular looked like she could barely contain herself, while Elena’s whole face seemed to glow with love and support. Rafa’s smile was subdued, but the way it reached her eyes spoke volumes about the maternal pride she felt. Francisco and Luisa were giving her the same kind of smiles they’d had on their faces prior to her graduation when they presented her with the borrowed tiara that later became a staple at parties, this time, though, there was something more intense about their expressions, which Carla mused was likely due to both the weight of the event and them trying to hold back from crying themselves – at least until the ceremony.

As for her father, he seemed to be holding back as well, perhaps for both her sake and that of appearances, but the warm, proud look he gave her was as genuine as ever.  

At a loss of what to say or even do, Carla merely stood in silence with everyone else, wondering if they were as unsure about moving as she was. Then, as if he was following a silent cue, Victor finally came forward and offered his hand.

The second Carla took his hand, everyone else finally moved to make two parallel rows, creating a sort of makeshift aisle that he escorted her down to the door in what seemed to be a last rehearsal for the real thing, her heart singing as she heard him speaking up again.

“Let’s get you married.”

[starkerintheparker]

starker reclist - AUs

Hey guys! Welcome to the second part of my personal Starker reclist, dedicated to AUs. Last week I posted my canon-based recs, you can find them here.

I tried to incorporate as many tropes as I could, hoping everyone will find something special within their interests. There are a few a/b/o and underage fics, all properly tagged in case anyone wishes to avoid them. I also tried to highlight soulmate AUs because I reckon it’s a somewhat popular trope. Enjoy! ❤️

Last updated: April 25th, 2020. All new fics added will be marked with ***

• 007 AU by @darker-soft-starker (T, 4k, completed)

Summary: Undercover and bored at an art auction, Tony finds entertainment in Peter Parker.

Review: Look, I’m a simple woman. Daniel Craig has owned my ass ever since Casino Royale and I was reading 00Q and Hartwin before I even shipped Starker. Point is, I like spy movies, ok?! So naturally I couldn’t leave this fic out of my reclist. I you need further incentive, consider this quote: “What, a little late night espionage not romantic enough for you?” Peter retorts, whipping a pistol out from his jacket and aiming it at Tony’s chest.

• 3 Times I Told You I Loved You & 1 Time You Said It Back by @starkeristheendgame (E) background Peter/Steve, Peter/Bucky, Peter/Scott

Summary: Peter Parker confesses his love to Tony Stark three times. Once at ten, once at fifteen and once at twenty. Finally convinced that Tony will never love him back, Peter ventures out into a different path, desperate to find the love he seeks from someone else. But you know what they say about star-crossed lovers.

Review: This lovely fic holds a very special place in my heart. I’m so invested I decided to wait until it’s finished so I can read it all in one sitting. Peter’s longing and heartbreak hurt my poor soul but I trust Jensen to give me that promised Starker endgame - I know it will be glorious when it finally comes.

• A Night on the Town by @scarletmanuka1 (G, 2.3k, completed)

Summary: Nightclub AU. Years after the events of Endgame, Tony has hit rock bottom. The Snap left him crippled, Pepper has abandoned him and has taken Morgan with her, and he's feeling old and lonely. Peter arranges a night out at the nightclub that he works at to try and cheer Tony up.

Review: I love get together fics, especially if it involves oblivious!Tony getting his shit together and going after his man. Seeing him bitter and broken after Thanos was hard, but special kudos to IronBros moments because that friendship is true goals!

• Age of Adeline by @starkerforlife6969 (completed) background Harley/Peter, Bucky/Peter, Wade/Peter

Review: I’d never in a million years think about this movie as a Starker AU but gosh, this is everything I needed in my life and it completely devastated me but I loved every minute of it. As a devoted monoshipper, I was surprised to realize that I got emotionally involved with all pairings, even more so with Starker, which totally paid off. Gorgeous, powerful and heartfelt. God bless SFL.

• assume makes ass for u and me by @pretty-well-funded (M, 1.6k, completed) tw underage

Summary: In Tony’s defense, he was sure the kid was a rent boy.

Review: This 1.6k fic caught me completely off guard and now I’m crying because I need MORE. I love the premise, the dialogue is criminally good, their voices are amazing and I can’t get enough of cheeky!Peter charming Tony with his wit and filthy mind.  

• Bamf!secretary Peter by @starkerforlife6969 (M, completed)

Review: Who could ever resist some corporate espionage drama with bamf!Peter leaving Tony speechless and horny? Not me. I’d read more 30k of this verse because competent, sassy Peter Parker is such a kink, omg.

• Biker!Tony by @starkerforlife6969 (T, completed) Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Review: Same age AUs are not usually my thing but I can’t resist cute high school sweethearts written by this fandom goddess. Plus, protective!Tony calling Peter “doll” does things to my heart - and Peter’s.

• Breaking Character by @cagestark (E, 8.3k, completed)

Summary: Tony Stark, billionaire, playboy, philanthropist, and spy for SHIELD. Working with another SHIELD spy, the infamous Spider, he will take down an infamous human trafficking ring in New York. But the act they have to put on will demand more from Tony than he ever thought he'd have to give. Not that he minds.

Review: The spy trope seriously needs more fic like this one, because I’ll have bamf!Peter lying back to save his country while Tony freaks out any day. Cage hits the perfect balance between plot building, fantastic sexual tension, clever dialogue and the hottest smut sequence. What a ride! (Pun intended).  

• Curiosity Killed the Cat by @areluctantsblog (T, 1.5k, completed)

Summary: Peter has been modelling in an art school for years. He's used to strangers' eyes roaming his body - clothed or naked - and he knows that it's not him they are looking at. Not him who they are interested in. He's just a model, a tool for their work. And for a long time he doesn't notice the one pair of eyes that, despite seeing him but rarely, is looking right at him.

Review: Very soft and atmospheric, this fic left me in a bit of a daze and it took me a while to realize it was over. Great writing will do that to you.

• Detective!Tony, Graffiti Artist!Peter by @starkerforlife6969 (M, completed)

Review: Oh don’t mind me, just appreciating this author’s talent at writing from the filthiest smut to the softest “Tony saves Peter in all ways that matter” like this ficlet. We stan.

• Eat at Pete’s by feyrelay + glorious art by @peachbabypie (E)

Summary: Peter gives him an unimpressed look, “If you didn’t do your work, then you wouldn’t be able to earn my time though, would you?” Pfft. “Kid, I have more money than god. I can splurge on your delicious pancakes and attention, trust me,” Tony informs him loftily. Peter smiles that wicked, crooked little smile that's just for him. It's not even and perfect like his the-customer-is-always-right one that's more frequently on offer. “I didn’t say you couldn’t afford it. I said you wouldn’t have earned it.”

Review: How can we ever say no to dom!Peter putting Tony in his place and hopefully on his dick + Tony loving every second of it?? Their dynamics are fantastic and that TASTY COUNTER DIALOGUE KILLS ME. EVERY TIME. Check it out and come scream with me: sub!Tony rights :D

• Fire and Ice by LeafyGreenQueen773 (M, 3k, completed) Soulmate AU

Summary: AU where when someone writes on his or her skin, the same thing shows up on their soulmate in the same place as a Mark that fades away in a few hours.

Review: This was the first Starker soulmate fic I’ve read and it made my heart ache so soft and good. Lovely and bittersweet, quiet and painfully honest. 

• Genius, Acrobat, Playboy, Philanthropist by @scarletmanuka1 (E, 28k, completed)

Summary: After Peter's aeriel acrobatics partner, Adrian Toomes is fired from The Avengers Circus Troupe for theft, he is shocked to discover that his replacement is non other than legendary performer, Tony Stark - the man that Peter had hero worshipped since he first learned how to tumble. 

Review: After reading this fic I realized I need more Circus AUs in my life. I could read jealous idiots falling in love while doing beautiful acrobatics for the rest of my days. Original plot, nice character development and I really appreciated how the author inserted little canon things here and there. 

• Happy to Disappoint by @deaded-blush (M, 60k, completed) tw underage, domestic violence

Summary: Adrian Toomes is in quite deep with notorious mob boss Tony Stark. But when Tony comes to collect the debt owed, he's surprised to discover Toomes has an adoptive son. The chance meeting changes the direction of both their lives...

Review: Hands down one of the best Mafia!AUs I’ve ever seen. Read it all in one sitting and by the end I was SHOOKETH and utterly obsessed with this story. Nothing about it is okay so brace yourself for whump!Peter and lots of h/c. Bonus points for an incredibly satisfying ending that will make you gasp out loud.

• Hey Baby, Slip between my Beta-Pleats and get to know my Alpha-Helix? by @starkerforlife6969 and @darker-soft-starker (E, 37k, completed) A/B/O

Summary: Even though Tony can't tell the difference between Manolo Blahnik and Jimmy Choo, Peter really has no other choice. His heat is around the corner, so even though he loathes the party-going, booze drinking, smug playboy know-it-all that is Tony Stark. He'll just have to do.       

Review: I can’t believe life went on as we know it (or did it??) after these two geniuses wrote together. This is the Starker version of “enemies to lovers” we all wanted and deserve, where spoiled-bratty-posh princess Peter finds the perfect balance for his chaotic energy in goofy-unapologetic-charming playboy Tony. Their falling in love is just so tender, so genuine and so good, it’s impossible not to cheer for these two sweethearts through this delightful, carefully crafted story.

• If you let me by @css1992 (E, 12k, completed)

Summary: Peter had tried dating younger guys, but it just didn’t do it for him. They were often too eager, too fast, too rough. Just too young, in general. Not that older men couldn’t be too much, too, Peter learned it the hard way. The man looking back at him from across the room seemed like a good one. He knew he shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, but he was gorgeous. Possibly the most handsome man Peter had ever seen in his short life.

Review: I remember the first time I read this fic it hit me in such a powerful way I cried a bit and was too overwhelmed to do words and tell the author just how much I loved it. But I never forgot this fic or the way it made me feel. It’s so evocative, so sexy, so raw, so heartbreaking, so sweet and so gentle. Great atmosphere, even greater characterization and some of the hottest smut I’ve ever read. Treat yourself and check this out right now.    

• I’ll be Home by @starkerforlife6969 (M, completed) A/B/O

Summary: The story starts when Soldier Tony comes home for a few days, and is introduced to the love of his life.

Review: Will I ever stop reccing SFL’s works? Maybe, but today is not the day. This gorgeous, breathtaking fic attacked me in my own house during Christmas day and made me cry like a baby. I’m a sucker for reunion stories - the longing, the heartbreak, the power of endurance. This fic reminded me that no matter how long or difficult the journey, love will always find a way.

• Little Spider by @stfustucky (iwillpaintasongforlou) (E, 5k, completed)

Summary: Peter Parker is one of the country's best hitmen, known in the underworld as the Little Spider. He spends his days in the lap of luxury with his billionaire fiance Tony Stark, and his nights doing dirty work for various shady characters. Life is good, right up until someone puts out a hit on Tony and wants Peter to pull the trigger. It... might be time for them to have a talk.

Review: Omg this fic was so deliciously good in a totally surprising and sexy way. Bamf!Peter took my breath away with the perfect balance between his two personas. Tony getting off on that sheer power and confidence is a BIG MOOD and my second favorite thing in this fic. The first being the badass power couple they make. 

• love somebody like you (E) by @intoxicatelou

Summary: five times Tony was Peter’s roommate and one time he was his soulmate instead.

Review: Who doesn’t love some forced proximity mixed with the unbeatable soulmate trope? This plot is the hottest take and my heart cannot handle young!Tony with his brilliant mind and sassy charm protecting and flirting with Peter, unfff feels everywhere *cries in Starker*

• Love Thy Neighbour by @darker-soft-starker (T, 2.3k, completed)

Summary: Tony's new neighbour is kinda weird.

Review: I know I keep saying that same age!AUs are not really my thing but I’m the softest bitch for feel-good, cozy domesticity, and I love how this charming story shows that ordinary life become magical when shared with someone special. I could babble all night about how eccentric and confident Peter seduces our man of science that for once has absolutely no idea of what’s going on - but you really should see it for yourself right now :)

• Mafia Boss!Tony Break Up Make Up by @starkerforlife6969 (E, completed)

Review: Man, this fic was so rude to my heart. The heartbreak, the rough sex, the guilt, the hopeful make up, the gorgeous ending. My body literally cannot take the stress, why are Mafia AUs so doomed and beautiful and more importantly, why is SFL so good at writing them???

• Microcosm Series by @bloomblood (M, 32k) tw underage

Summary: Tony and Peter become each other’s heroes after the Snap, saving themselves before they offer aid back to the world.

Review: I haven’t read many post-apocalyptic fics but this series’s raw atmosphere sucked me in. I adore the quiet intimacy, the slow and tentative healing, and all the silent and complex emotions underneath apparent simplicity. Big aesthetic mood, just as its lovely author. 

• Musechaser by @nightskygardenia (M, 10.5k, completed)

Summary: Eighteen year old art student Peter Parker is desperately searching for his muse, someone who can bring his creative skills to the next level through inspiration. Lucky for him, his next class just so happens to feature a gorgeous model by the name of Tony Stark, a man Peter's convinced is his muse, to the point of staying after class to ask for private modeling sessions.

Review: Another big aesthetic mood, this fic paints a gorgeous imagery. I love the setting, the slow pace and the building anticipation until the sexual tension finally breaks. Peter is adorable and Tony exudes confidence; their voices are spot on and their chemistry is palpable and intense.  

• My Best Friend’s Dad by @darker-soft-starker (M, 17.6k, completed)

Summary: Peter is home for the summer, back from his first year away at college. Having stayed over at Harley's house every weekend since they were fourteen, he never used to think much of his friend’s dad. A few years worth of college experience has Peter noticing Tony in a different way. This time, Tony notices him back.

Review: Turns out that Tony Stark being a dad and a daddy is too much for my body. I worship this fic. I wanna get married to it and have its babies. No words will ever make it justice *sobs* no but seriously, secret relationship is a perfect Starker trope and this one will take you to the edge of your seat until the very end. A+ characterization, lovely build up, infuriating cliffhangers and the wholesome happy ending we all deserve. This is the kind of fic that leaves you a bit depressed once it’s over, because you suddenly realize you’ll never read it for the first time ever again. So get to it and make sure to enjoy every second!

• One Call Away by @readysetstarker (E)

Summary: Tony didn’t need the phone sex gig. He was more than well off, his own sex life was in great shape, but damn, there was just something about listening to someone else get off to his voice. 

Review: Omg who could ever resist sex hotline + daddy kink + identity porn? Dev is coming after our own hearts and bodies with this hot combo. I love the balance between their cute chemistry and the hot phone sex, plus the identity porn is deliciously fun. I was so happy to know this fic is getting longer than the author had previously anticipated because I’m definitely not ready to let it go.

• Open Road by @starkerflowers (E, 2.5k, completed)

Summary: It’s not love, but it’s good. TW: implied abuse (not between Tony/Peter); bruises/violence; panic attack. 

Review: This refreshing not-quite-a-love-story will capture your heart, make it hurt, make it ache, make it hope and finally, make it heal. This fic is so gorgeously written I honestly cannot rec it enough. Yes, it’s dark and angsty, but it’s also gentle, hopeful and deeply evocative.  

• Panty Raid by @starkerforlife6969 (M, completed) A/B/O

Summary:  Imagine Tony being forced to do a panty raid as an initiation for his fraternity. So Tony, keeping up his playboy appearances, sneaks into the omega dorms. And he sees sweet innocent Peter who is so alarmed by the alphas raiding their dorm Tony can’t help but comfort him.

Review: Unf this fic is just too charming and cute, my heart cannot take it. Frat stories are so fun they make me forget my preference for age gaps and realize I could read more 50k of protective young!Tony any day, please and thank

• Pete’s Eats by @darker-soft-starker (T, 9.3k, completed)

Summary: Peter has a YouTube channel where he just drinks wine and teaches people how to cook things if they live in a mediocre apartment. While cooking and drinking he just talks about stuff like memes and school and, most importantly, his undying thirst for Tony Stark.

Review: This is legit the funniest shit I’ve ever read, everybody else can go home. I was already sold on Peter being a relatable thirsty dork, but Tony’s A+++ characterization (for a moment I thought it was RDJ on the big screen) and the identity porn side trope killed me for good. And what a way to go. I’m an angst hoe but I could read this forever and would be okay with it. 

• pondus, pondera by spqr (M, 9.3k, completed) underage prostitution but not between P/T

Summary: Peter sells his virginity for $5,000 when he’s fifteen.

Review: Ugh I’m so weak for the angsty hooker trope, I just love the potential to simultaneously explore whump, mutual pining and gentle recovery. Trust spqr to deliver it all with a carefully crafted slow burn, god-tier characterization and a heartfelt and satisfying get together. This fic is a gem.

• Powerful by @cagestark (E, 4.6k, completed) SIM!Tony

Summary: After finding out about Peter's abusive ex, Tony privately vows revenge.

Review: This fic took my breath away and made me realize that dark!Tony with a soft spot for Peter is everything I need in my life. Precious Peter being empowered by a viciously protective Tony is now my absolute jam, and it was fascinating to see see their dynamics mutually feeding each other’s nature. This fic is gorgeous, sexy and liberating. 

***Red Light District series by @starker-stories (17k, ongoing)

Summary: Everyone knows that Tony Stark is a playboy who has dozens of women passing through his life and through his bed. What everyone doesn't know is that Tony Stark is deeply closeted, longing for something he can't ever have -- a life and a love with another man.

Review: I’m completely in love with this series and not only because it explores the good old hooker trope which I’m very partial to. It’s so well written and atmospheric, if a tad bittersweet and heart-wrenching. Great narrative tension, Tony and Peter’s chemistry is insane, their voices and dialogue are amazing and the smut is looong and scorching hot *chef’s kiss* 

• Samadhi by @starkercrossedlovers (E, completed)

Summay: Tony goes to yoga to try and deal with his anxiety and ends up falling for the instructor, one Peter Parker.

Review: Okay so yoga fics are among my guilty pleasures and I can’t get enough of feel-good fics like this one. Peter’s such a sweetheart, so thoughtful and amazing with Tony. I love it when they take care of each other and find solace together, this fic made me soft :’)

• Single dad baker!Peter and lawyer!Tony by @starkerforlife6969 (G, completed)

Review: I’m not usually a fluff girl but this fic is just too wholesome to go by unnoticed. Nothing hits my soft side harder than a cynical character reaching that turning point that makes them start to believe in love. Fuck yes, YOU SHOW THAT MAN SOME HAPPILY EVER AFTER PETE

• Soft Kitty by @ko-fiandfanfiction (E, 33k, completed)

Summary: Peter wasn’t wearing something Tony would call normal, not that there was anything inherently wrong with what he was wearing or anything. It just struck him as…different. To put it plainly. Tony is not sure what to make of this new development.

Review: For those of you who love some occasional feminization, this is the perfect treat. Soft, sexy and sweet, it combines top guilty, pining Tony with oblivious idiots in love, two of my favorite tropes. Amazing slow burn with glorious sexual tension, infuriating dancing around each other and a very satisfying get together. Bonus points for including the “Avengers living together in the Tower” trope, this is the 2012 team building fic we deserved.

• Solitaire by @darker-soft-starker (M, 29k, completed)

Summary: After a traumatic experience, Tony loses his marriage and his business empire in one fell swoop. At rock bottom, it takes real change to pick up the pieces, to dig himself out of the funk he's been living in. It's not pretty. Along the path of healing Tony meets a bright young man, Peter Parker, who makes the entire journey worth it.

Review: Oh man, this was a tough ride on the soul. Few things hurt me like reading whump!Tony but his healing journey is so beautiful it’s all worth it. Top notch characterization, amazing dialogue, FEELS EVERYWHERE, and a gorgeous portrayal of loneliness, friendship, hope and love.  

• Someone Who Makes you Happy by tuesday (T, 6k, completed) Soulmate AU

Summary: Peter was born with several marks already marring his skin, including an interlocking AES over his heart. A scar-sharing soulmate AU.

Review: This fic is absolutely stunning and it makes my heart ache in all the right places. Great worldbuilding (I LOVE the scarring concept, so unique and fitting to these characters), A+++ Tony characterization (the wit and the self-hate are so spot on I could weep) and a journey full of longing, until they finally get to be on the same page. 

• Splice by Mezzymet (E, 35k, completed) A/B/O

Summary: "He's not...." The doctors polite nature and disposition hadn't been able to mask the odd tone of his voice, like he had been reading someone's death certificate. Only Peter hadn't been on his death bed. "Peter isn't like the other kids.

Review: I keep coming back to this story because it’s such a fascinating and unique take on this trope. Very well thought and put together - the world building is fantastic, the sex sequences are breathtaking, and Tony’s gentle thoughtfulness makes me wanna cry.   

• Stopover by @cagestark (E, 10k, completed)

Summary: A stopover is just a break in a journey. Tony is on the run from the organization he used to kill for, and when he stopped for gas and coffee in the small town of Stopover, IL, he had no plans to leave with anything more.

Review: *sigh* this is the mob boss!Tony fic I’ve waited for all my life. Even more impressive than the delicious smut checking all my kink boxes was the phenomenal build up, the overall urgent atmosphere that surrounds those “on the run”, combined with the gentle wonder of stealing a moment in time to find solace in the most unlikely place. Breathtakingly moving. 

• Student Body President Election by @starkerforlife6969 (T, completed)

Summary: Tony and Peter are competing for Student Body President and a smear campaign takes things a little too far.

Review: GIMME ENEMIES TO LOVERS AND ALL THE HIGH SCHOOL DRAMA. This ficlet is so fun and adorable it will make your heart smile. Great plot idea and the usual bonus points for protective!Tony being a sweetheart. Will have more 30k, pls and thank.

• Such a Softer Sin by @css1992 (E, 18k, completed) background Peter/Norman

Summary: Tony is a self-made man. Peter is a sugar baby – someone else’s sugar baby.

Review: Another fantastic slow burn that hit me hard in the feels. I love it when fics explore the characters’ personal struggles before they get together, and while the Peter!whump destroyed my heart, Tony’s parallel journey of growth took my breath away. css1992’s talent took the good old sugar baby trope to a whole new epic level. 

• Summer Daze by @darker-soft-starker (NR, 4.3k, completed)

Summary: Starker no-powers au where Peter watches construction worker Tony from his bedroom window as the older man works across the street.

Review: Ahh yes, the classic “food as metaphor for love” trope, my absolute jam. This fic is so adorable and endearing, pining!Peter in his wooing mission makes my heart ache and the sweet anticipation is so good. There’s something about this fic that gives me nostalgia; it’s as soft and warm as a summer breeze.

• Tamed by @cagestark (E, 8.3k, completed)

Summary: Tony Stark, billionaire, playboy, philanthropist, and spy for SHIELD. Working with another SHIELD spy, the infamous Spider, he will take down an infamous human trafficking ring in New York. But the act they have to put on will demand more from Tony than he ever thought he'd have to give. Not that he minds.

Review: It’s no wonder this is Cage’s most beloved fic. Bad boy!Tony being all soft for Peter is everything we deserve, not to mention a mesmerizing (and HOT AF) first time together. This fic shows how rich and captivating Cage’s writing is - she’s able to transform that old basic trope into something unique and heartfelt. If you need one more reason to read this, please consider: best first bj ever :)    

• Teacher!Tony wrong number by @areluctantsblog (T) tw underage

Summary: Peter’s using a replacement phone and mistypes Ned’s number asking for help on a physics problem.

Review: I have such a soft spot for this fic! It was one of the first AUs I’ve ever read and I’m completely in love with their dynamics. Peter’s underage but this fic is carefully written and pretty tame, so I’d rec it to anyone looking for the good old “they probably shouldn’t, but then again nothing’s happening” trope.  

• The Bleedover Effect by tuesday (T, 11k, completed) Soulmate AU

Summary: The first time Tony got punched in the face by nobody there, he had a lot of very complicated feelings about it that mostly boiled down to, "I deserve this." A pain-sharing soulmate AU.

Review: Tuesday truly is the queen of soulmate AUs, we have no other choice but STAN. First of all, I adore the concept here - being such a sucker for whump, this could easily become my favorite soulmate trope. As usual, her Tony voice is perfect and his devotion to Peter hits my fragile heart every time. Kudos for the soft and hopeful ending. The series has been discontinued but the sequels are very much worth the read, if you’re up for it :)

• The Catfish Chronicles by @stfustucky (iwillpaintasongforlou) (E, 32k, completed)

Summary: Peter creates a fake profile under the name “Benjamin” trying to catch his scumbag boyfriend cheating. Tony creates a Tinder profile for "Anthony" looking for love late in life. Funny how two geniuses who fight side by side every day can only manage to fall in love after they've accidentally catfished each other. This is... gonna get awkward.

Review: My identity porn thirst might be showing but who cares, I want these two idiots pining after each other in every possible way. This was such a fun and exciting ride! The suspense had me legit freaking out and their get together was lovely and wholesome. I particularly adored how thoughtful and sweet Tony was dealing with Peter’s insecurities, that was handled really well. A treat!

• The Concept of Domesticity by @peters-tofu (E) mpreg

Summary: Tony has accomplished nearly everything he's set out to do, now he wants something different. A family of his own? Sounds easy enough. But he's far too impatient for a relationship, so surrogacy it is. Meanwhile, twenty-two year old college student Peter Parker has just volunteered to be a bearer at an agency.

Review: Can’t say I’m a big fan of this trope but since every rule has its exception, here it is! The only Starker mpreg I’ve ever read is so so good and adorable I can’t help smiling every time I think about it. I just love their dynamics, the soft domesticity, the cute bantering, and the fact that Peter has one baby daddy all wrapped around his little finger but what else is new ;)

***The Date by Neuropsyche (E, 33k, completed)

Summary: Tony has a high society gala and he needs a date.

Review: My favorite fake dating AU so far, this fic is so sweet and wholesome. Confident!Peter is my jam and it was amazing to see their sassy bantering evolving into genuine affection towards each other, not to mention the delicious hot smut with dom!Tony :D 

• The Final Heist by @starkerforlife6969 (G, 10k, completed)

Summary: Tony’s only got one more heist. He does this, he can be retired on an island in the Mediterranean in a month. All he needs is a world-class art forger. (White Collar inspired)

Review: Honestly, the amount of times I’ve mentioned SFL in this list is getting embarrassing. I must have done something really good in another life to get such a talented author writing something inspired by one of my favorite TV shows. I feel like this fic was personally crafted for me; it’s original, romantic, sexy, fun, clever and so very atmospheric. I’m a lucky hoe. 

• The Heart Benefits of Exercise by @areluctantsblog (E, 14k, completed)

Summary: Personal Trainer Tony and Gym Newbie Peter. Peter can hardly keep it together watching Tony demonstrate different exercises and lift weights. Tony is very much aware of the effect he has on his trainee, and after a session, Peter begs to be shown a whole different array of exercises.

Review: This fic was a lovely surprise, very relatable and entertaining. Love myself an adorable Peter thirsting over Tony (can’t really judge lol), especially if it comes with a good amount of pining and hot, kinky smut :D

• Tipping the Scale by JayPendragon (E, 119k, completed)

Summary: Peter has a rhythm. A system. All runs like a well-oiled machine, engineering pun intended. Every wheel of his life is churning perfectly. He doesn’t expect Tony Stark of all people to throw a wrench in it.

Review: Hooker!AUs are my kryptonite, I’m so here for the “fuck first, talk later” and the general pining + misunderstandings + h/c combo this trope provides. This amazing longfic delivers it all with a well-paced, delicious slow burn told from Peter’s POV, which is always a delight to read and makes you fall even more in love with him. If you also enjoy this trope you’re in for a treat!

•  To Catch a Spider by Thekeyandquill (E)

Summary: After the war, Peter Parker left his career as a spy behind to live a simple life in the south of France. But when someone frames him for the theft of plans for a new weapon, he must re-enter his old life and get close to the real thief's likely next target - one Tony Stark. A To Catch a Thief AU.

Review: TKAQ is so skilled their writing should be experienced like fine wine. Amazing research, top notch world building and characterization, and the loveliest atmosphere that makes you feel like you’re inside a movie. Clever, organic dialogue and a sexual tension so palpable you can almost taste it. This is a gem. Make sure to check their other works.

•  Two White, Two Black, One Pink by @starkerforlife6969 (E) poly fic: Peter/Tony, Peter/Steve, Peter/Bucky, Peter/Strange Summary: Peter has three (maybe one day: four) men in his life who mean the world to him. Review: Ugh, this fic is pure bliss. It has legit ruined me for any and all other poly fics. Words just cannot describe how gorgeous, poetic and unique SFL’s writing is, or how deeply it has affected me. So if you enjoy Mafia AUs, poly fics and soft-but-also-bamf!Peter taking care of Tony AND being taken care of by the men he loves, give this a chance and experience transcending storytelling. 

•  Uranium Heart by spqr (M, 11k, completed) Soulmate AU Summary: It’s probably better, Peter thinks, that he doesn’t know who his soulmate is. He wouldn’t want to lie to them about Spider-Man, but he doesn’t think he’d be able to tell them the truth, either.

Review: Be still my heart. This is such a gorgeous fic! Not only it combines two major tropes in a coherent 11k story, but I also appreciate how spqr explores these characters and their dynamics in a very unique and realistic way. I strongly recommend checking their other works, especially Landslide. 

•  Waiting Game by @cagestark (E, 6k, completed)

Summary: Peter hasn't seen Tony in fifteen years. Not since he had their hasty marriage annulled, graduated college, and moved across the country. Their twenty year high school reunion will find them reunited. They've both changed, but one thing hasn’t. Hint: it's their feelings for each other.

Review: This fic literally made my heart BURST WITH FEELS: the whole build up and anticipation, the slow disclosure of their past, the first uncertain moments of their reunion. I also appreciate the powerful and moving message underneath it all, that true healing comes after we overcome our demons at our own pace. A masterpiece.

•  Wooing Peter Parker by Neuropsyche (E, 62.5k, completed)

Summary: Tony and Rhodey dodge the press and sneak into the library where they meet Peter Parker - who immediately catches Tony's eye. But Peter isn't a one and done kind of guy and Tony's going to have to work for what he wants this time.

Review: This is the kind of fic that warms you all over and makes you smile non stop. It has so many elements I love in fic: cute flirting, clever banter, hot sex, soft domesticity, boys being reasonable and talking their problems out for a change. If you’re looking for something light, sweet and honest, this series is a must read!

[ingu]

(1/2) I came here straight from finishing your TUA fic when I saw you had a Tumblr. Honestly, I could gush about it all day?? There's not enough space in these comment boxes, so I might review it chapter by chapter when I have the time, because there were so many things I thought you just NAILED about the characters. It was also one of the most thought-provoking fics I've read in the fandom. There were so many moments where my eyes lit up, because I felt you were really onto something.

(2/2) So yes, I just wanted to thank you for contributing such an amazing story! I was actually curious if you'd be writing anything else for this fandom, but to my delight I saw you posted some ficlet prompts. HMMM... What about "Promise me you’re not gonna over-react." or "It’s four o'clock in the morning, what are you doing?" Whichever interests you!

Gosh anon, thank you so much! This was such a sweet message to read and your words are massively kind. I would be absolutely thrilled if you ever decide to leave reviews on the chapters. It’s been such a relief to hear that the characterisation has been working for you guys!

Also, ask and you shall receive, here’s a non-canon(?) mini AU? continuation? of my TUA fic for you.

-

The house was quiet in the early morning, and even the sounds of the city outside were more muted than usual. With almost a dozen superpowered people sharing the house, it was also the time in the day where Five could be guaranteed a quiet moment to think and work on his equations without the danger of harassment.

Five mulled over his equations as he walked down the stairs toward the kitchen, holding his empty mug. He was right on the cusp of something big, and he knew that he could fix the imbalance in his maths. His calculations had gone wrong somewhere and he needed to redo the working, though he wasn’t entirely sure where he’d made the mistake.

As he walked, Five paused at the sound of ominous creaking in the floorboards ahead of him. It sounded like someone very heavy trying their best to be stealthy, and failing.

“Luther?” Five said, a frown falling across his face.

There was sudden silence, and Five stepped around the corner to find none other than Number One, skulking in the hallway.

"It’s four o'clock in the morning, what are you doing?" said Five, squinting at Luther in suspicion.

“Uh…” said Luther eloquently, his eyes wide and screaming with guilt.

Five stood unmoving, waiting for a response.

“Nothing?” Luther said in a tone that screamed something.

Five stared at him for a doubt filled moment, before deciding he didn’t really care. If it was anything truly important Luther would be rounding up the troops, not sneaking around like he was scared of getting in trouble with Dad.

“You really need to work on the lying thing,” Five said, and then jumped past Luther to get behind him.

“Wait!” Luther suddenly hissed, whirling around in a panic.

Five paused, then turned around with an annoyed frown. “What?”

“Wh- Uh, where are you going?”

“Kitchen.” Five gestured with his mug, before turning away again. He needed more coffee.

“No, stop!”

Incredulous, Five turned back. “Christ, what do you want?”

Luther made a frustrated, grumbling sound. “Okay, look. I’ll tell you. But you have to promise me you’re not gonna over-react.”

Something in Luther’s tone sent alarm bells ringing in Five’s head. “Luther, what did you do?”

“Nothing! I didn’t do anything, I just wanted a snack but then you-” Luther cut off suddenly, his mouth slamming shut.

“I what?” Five said, eyes narrowing. Luther had better be careful how he finished that sentence.

“Look just, come with me, alright?”

“To where?” Five said, as Luther pushed past him and started heading back the way he had come from.

“The kitchen.”

Frozen for a moment by the ridiculousness of the situation, Five rolled his eyes, and followed after Luther.

This had better be important.

-

The lights were on as they approached the kitchen, though it was hard for Five to see beyond Luther’s massive bulk.

“Oh hey, you’re back already?” Vanya’s voice sounded as Luther crossed the threshold. “Where’s the-”

Vanya’s voice abruptly cut off as Luther moved inside and Five, behind him, finally saw just what Luther had been hiding in the kitchen.

“Oh you’ve got to be fucking kidding me,” Five muttered, as he found himself face to face with his thirteen year old self.

At the kitchen table, Vanya sat next to Five’s younger self. The thirteen year old Five looked miserable, sitting at the kitchen table, nursing a mug of something looking like hot chocolate. His hair was the same, but he wasn’t in a uniform, and wore a dark striped sweater with jeans and boots, looking unsettlingly like any other teenager he could walk into on the street. The younger Five’s clothes were creased and rumpled, but clean, and Five wouldn’t have been able to tell that he was a runaway if he hadn’t already known. 

Five felt faintly proud of the fact that his younger self managed to not look starved and homeless despite what had to have been a week on the street.

He also couldn’t believe this was happening.

“Holy shit,” the younger Five murmured, staring back at the adult Five with widening eyes. “How-”

Five made a face, then shrugged. “Congratulations, you can’t age anymore.”

Then, he walked around both Vanya and his younger self to check the coffee maker.

“Five!” Vanya chided as his younger self’s eyes went wide.

“That’s not true, Five,” Luther said with a look of confusion, before alarm fell over his face. “Wait, is it?”

Five shrugged. He was just fucking with them, but they didn’t need to know that yet.

“I can’t believe this is happening,” the younger Five muttered, echoing Five’s own feelings, before he suddenly cried out. “Wait, is this why none of you came home?” 

Five frowned as he put down his mug and picked up the empty coffee pot. It was strange to hear such obvious hurt in his own voice. He scratched at his neck, and then sighed internally as he took note of the new itchy patches that sprung up across his skin. Right, the damned psychosis.

“Well, this is certainly an interesting development,” Five said, turning around to face his siblings and his alternate self. “I’m going out to get some coffee.”

Everyone watched him in surprised silence. There were tears in Five’s younger self’s eyes, and that was an even more unsettling thing to see.

“Luther?” Five continued, turning toward his brother. “I expect to see you at Griddy’s in twenty minutes.” He gestured between himself and the younger Five. “We need to talk about this.”

“Wait, you’re just going to leave?” Luther said, stepping forward.

“Luther, do you remember what happened the last time I spent too long near my alternate self?” Five said, smiling mirthlessly. “If you don’t fucking do as I say, then don’t blame me if I skip straight to the homicidal rage.”

Five turned and jumped out into the alleyway before Luther could respond. He was getting really thirsty, and needed that coffee. Griddy’s had better still be open.