#it'd be a hell of a lot more accessible for sure

[fireflowersims]

Thinking of writing up some of the stuff I do to optimize CC and a bunch of theory behind various aspects of CC Creation.

There are just so many outdated tutorials still out and about and I feel like people might be lagging behind on some of this stuff.

[tadc-ragatha]

Being Their Friend

TW: Breakdowns/crises (mentioned), knives, swearing, centipedes, bullying, general mental health stuff, Zooble's limbs being (painlessly) moved/stored/body horror

Type: Headcanons

A/N: Hi. These are just for fun; don't get up in arms if they aren't perfect (they can't be anyway, considering how far into the show we are). Requests aren't open (EDIT: they are open now). Spoilers obviously. Includes only the main six because I honestly don't know enough about Caine yet.

Pomni

Being her friend entails a multitude of existential crises. Everyone's trying to find their own way to cope, but expect to be helping her through many a panic attack. She's a hot mess most of the time, and doesn't really know what to do.

As seen in the trailer, she still gets scared of getting hurt, much unlike people like Ragatha who know they can't be harmed by knives or whatever else Caine throws at them. It'd be your job to help calm her down during these situations and help her adjust to not being hurt.

Other than that, I imagine once Pomni gets (semi) used to living in the digital circus you'd spend a lot of time looking for the exit. She definitely wants to get out of there before she becomes abstracted--something she knows is possible with her mental state. She also just wants to get her and everyone else out of there. Even that jackass Jax.

Pomni would take a lot of comfort in the things that connect her to the real world like food. If she offers you some food, you know you're really friends with her. If she had access to drawing/painting equipment or whatnot, I reckon she'd try to draw herself in her real form (if she could remember). She's like to see what you look like, and would compliment you on your appearance.

Ragatha

Ragatha's been in the digital circus for a while, and is much more comfortable with it than some of her other friends (or so she likes to pretend). She's fine with getting hit with knives as seen in her introduction short and likely wouldn't be scared of dying by anything else. As she said, her only fear is centipedes.

Still, it'll be your job to get them out of her room for her. Everyone knows what an arsehole Jax can be, and she sure as hell isn't risking walking into her room to find tens of thousands of them. If you don't do it, she's staying in your room for an indefinite amount of time.

Actually, I think Ragatha would like to have sleepovers anyway. It'd keep her impending thoughts at bay. Even if she doesn't require sleep, it's fun and reminds her of home. Like I said in Pomni's section, I think she'd enjoy drawing or painting. Or any creative visual art really, but especially drawing and painting for the purpose of making pictures of what you look like outside of the digital world.

Though be warned, the sight of her may send her off on a spiral of homesickness. Since Ragatha serves as a kind of rock of stability (as best as her overly optimistic self can), seeing her collapse may cause the others to collapse, too. Except maybe Jax, but it'll be up to you to try and get everyone back together before abstraction happens.

Jax

First of all, I don't know if this is possible. Not only are we so little into the show to really know, but Gooseworx also said he's going to have some really bad scenes. So, I suppose you won the lottery in doing this...Maybe. It really depends on how you look at it.

Because first of all, he's still a massive dick. He's just rude to everyone, so expect nothing different. He'll still be a jerk to you, "prank" you, or really, just straight up bully you. Honestly, half the time you can't even tell this guy is supposed to like you. He doesn't even really say sorry unless it's sarcastic.

The only way you can tell he likes you as a friend is when he gets all up in arms about you being annoyed at him. At first, at least, he's confused as to why you can't just let it go. Over time, though, he gets more in tune with his emotions and starts to mellow out a little.

However, it does come with the perk of having someone who will beat the ever-loving life out of whoever hurt you. Okay, well, not that far--he's got to keep his reputation as someone who doesn't care about other people, so he'll at most just be a bit of a bigger pain in their side. But it's still there.

Things you'd do together include terrorising the other members (or, he tries to get you in on it, anyway), sneaking into people's rooms to snoop around, and all-in-all just being a bit of a pain. But you also do other things; he seems like he's not one for visual arts or theatre, but maybe he could play an instrument and may--very heavy on the "may"--teach you some stuff. Otherwise, I don't think he's an arts guy. He'd enjoy video games, though, if they had those! And going to the digital carnival for thrills along with just exploring the grounds.

Kinger

Kinger would be an interesting friend. I have two routes for this guy based on a theory I saw. Route one follows him actually being on the brink of insanity/abstraction. In this route, you have to make sure he's alright. Just be gentle with him and check up on him every now and then. But don't be in his face all the time. Everyone needs a bit of personal space.

You can still hang out with Kinger, obviously. You can still talk about things you'd normally talk about, whatever that may be. Just don't bring up the abstracted queen (who I shall be calling Queener). It'll bring up some...Bad memories.

Anyways, my second route is this: based on a theory, Kinger is actually one of the more stable ones in the group, and is just pretending to be on the brink of losing it. Basically, if I remember right, he's pretending in order to get out of the activities/shenanigans of the group.

But no matter what his reason for doing it is, he's smart as hell. Having tricked everyone, it'd take a keen eye to figure it out. If you do, he'd be impressed. Once he trusts you enough, the two of you will discuss the other circus members and how to outsmart them secretly. You'll also just hang out, gossip...He feels like a guy who'd be into drama, with his whole being the actual king thing. You two would do some impromptu skits and whatnot to pass the time.

Gangle

Oh, Gangle. What would you do with Gangle? Well, you'd certainly have to be gentle with her. She's a very fragile soul--and also fragile physically--and needs some care. Help her repair her mask, or better yet, stop Jax from breaking it in the first place. In fact, just stop him from doing any mean stuff to her in the first place.

Other than that, Gangle is someone who'd actually enjoy drawing as a hobby and not just a memories thing. She draws anime, and would make you and her anime personas with cool abilities and features like wings and shit. I imagine her art style is very early-mid 2000s anime, with the really big eyes and whatnot.

Anyways, I reckon she'd also write. Mostly fanfiction when she wasn't stuck in the digital world, but since there's no fandoms to write about now she'd start branching out into her own original stories. But don't get me wrong; if anyone was going to write about their friends and fellow members it'd be her. She just hides it somewhere other than her room. Gangle would like to write stories about your sonas going on adventures and saving the world.

Eventually, these stories probably get found by Jax or someone else (but probably Jax). He'd laugh his arse off at them and would run to tell everyone about it. Unless you can absolutely beat the shit out of him, prepare to do some explaining and also comforting for her.

Zooble

Zooble does not give much of a shit about the others. They wouldn't let them die (at least I think so), but they're in no way buddy-buddy with them. In order to be friends with them, you'd have to meet their strict criteria. So, good job on that!

Being friends with them would either involve lots of gossip because they want to talk shit about people and complain, or it'd have no gossip because they honestly couldn't care less about the others. I can't tell. But if you do gossip, I imagine they know a lot about the other members. You'd be filled in on everything they know, too. They've been dying for someone to tell this too.

Zooble's also very particular about their looks, as seen in their introductory short. They have many stored limbs and whatnot to swap around for their mood. Don't mess with their body by switching around their antennae-like things or ripping off their body parts like Jax. They will retaliate.

Going off of this, though, I imagine they're pretty strong. I mean, they choked Jax like that. So, if anyone (him) comes around to piss you off, you best bet they'll be on their way to beat his arse. Though, it probably ends in a tug-of-war with one of their arms.

[missmonsters2]

Mirror, Mirror | Five

Please do not copy, repost, or translate my work anywhere else.

PART FOUR

Pairing: Wanda Maximoff x Fem!Reader

Summary: Deleting the video evidence of Wanda's embarrassing confession only goes slightly awry, and in the end, she can't tell if she's relieved or disappointed with herself. Perhaps she can get advice from someone who was once in her position.

Warnings: best friends to lovers. shenanigans. jealousy, jealousy. sexual tension. pining. yearning. sexual thoughts. spicy (tumblr's version). stupid steve. neurotic nat. brat & stinky. bug as in shutterbug.

*explicit version will only be available on Ao3 & will be posted there after series is completed*

Note: There's still an epilogue after this!! But after that, it's done </3

Reminder there's no taglist but you can follow my library blog for notifications 💘

Series Masterlist || Library Blog || AO3

Count: ~4,6k

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Wanda jiggles her key through the door with a renewed rush. Her hands are shaky, and she should really just take her time. This wasn't making it go any faster.

Darcy had just dropped her off after they ate their McDonald's meal in the parking lot and was on her way back to get access to her laptop to help Wanda. 

Finally unlocking the door, Wanda took her shoes off haphazardly and took off towards your room. Your laptop sits innocently at your desk, unaware of all the havoc Wanda will reap upon it if it doesn't give her access to your email. 

She pulls out the chair and sits down before she opens it up. The first thing that greets her is the password page. Wanda pulls out the USB that Darcy gave her and plugs it in. All she can do now is wait since Darcy said she'd text Wanda once she made it home. 

The next 15 minutes feel like a bottomless pit of hell. Wanda checks her watch every couple of minutes, tapping her foot impatiently. 

"Come on, come on, come on," Wanda huffs quietly. She's extremely paranoid about what you might be doing. It's unlikely you'd be returning home tonight, and even if you were, it'd be a couple of hours from now.

Yet, the unhinged part of Wanda wants to pull out her phone and text you, "Hey, what's up? You're still busy sexing up Raye, right? Definitely not ideal, but you're not checking your emails or on your way home, right?

Wanda wishes she made Natasha go stakeout Raye's house to alert her when you were leaving the place. Before she can think more insane thoughts, her phone vibrates in her hand, and Wanda checks it with speed. It was from Darcy confirming she'd made it home and it'd be any minute now. 

Wanda looks up at your laptop screen, pushing her finger against the mousepad to ensure the screen doesn't time out. The USB must give Darcy some kind of access because, true to her word, something does start happening. 

Wanda watches the screen with mild interest as a separate window pops up. The background is black, but it's clearly some kind of coding as random words begin running. It takes a few minutes, but then asterisks fill your password box. It only takes 3 times before the right password is entered and Wanda's gained access.

"Yes!" She celebrates before she sends Darcy a quick text. 

Wanda pulls up your email and finds the latest one sent to you is a link to a Google Drive. There are many videos and some photos, but Wanda recognizes herself in one of the thumbnails and clicks on it.

"I don't see what's so great about Raye—"

Wanda immediately stops playing it, unable to bear the embarrassment of hearing herself. She quickly deletes the clip, also going to the trash bin to make sure it's permanently deleted. Wanda checks everything several times to ensure there are no other clips and any trace of her confession is gone. 

Mission completed. 

Relief floods her system, knowing that the clip has been deleted. 

Wanda closed everything she opened, making sure she changed the status of the email to unread. Once everything is as it was, Wanda closes your laptop and unplugs the USB.  

Stuffing the USB into her pocket, she's about to send another text to Darcy when Wanda hears the front door open, and you call out her name. You must've seen her shoes at the door, but Wanda still doesn't answer. She hears you walking back down the hallway toward your room and panics. 

Oh, god, she couldn't walk back out that door without bumping into you, and she couldn't jump out the window either with them living on the 10th floor. 

Oh, fuck, what does she do? Wanda's panicking as she shakes her hands in hysteria and looks around frantically. 

Shit, shit, shit, shit!

Wanda carefully makes her way to your closet, but it's filled wall to wall with your clothes, and the floor is filled with your shoes and other boxes. There was no room to hide in there.

Fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck!

Wanda's walking around your room and has no idea where to hide. She looks at your bed and internally groans. Dropping to her knees, she scoots herself until she's fully underneath, flat on her stomach, but her head is kept off the floor. She quickly opens her phone and turns it from vibration mode to silence—Wanda refuses to be caught. She would rather die than even try and explain all of this.

The door opens, and Wanda only gets a few of your slippers as you make your way back to your desk. She hears a soft clank on the desk, and Wanda can only assume it's the mug of tea you have every night. 

Wanda hears you sigh quietly as you seem to settle in for the night. This is not good. This is fucking terrible. 

Wanda can't tell how long she's been stuck under your bed. She's too worried about moving and accidentally making a noise. All she hears is the soft music playing and your mouse and keyboard clicking. 

Suddenly, her phone lights up with a notification. It's a text from you.

Wanda bites her lip, trying to decide if she should answer. Ultimately, she decides she should because it's possible you might try to call her if she doesn't, and she definitely can't answer it if you do. Wanda would also feel bad about not answering you if you're worried. 

But, god fucking dammit, she's going to have to lie. Again. 

Wanda hears a breathy chuckle from you and tries not to smile. 

Fuck. 

Wanda doesn't know if she should say yes or no. If she says yes, will you wait until she gets home? Wanda can only dread how long she might be stuck under your bed.

The chair you're sitting scrapes against the floor a little. A reply doesn't come for a few minutes, and Wanda wishes she could see what you were doing. 

Wanda stares at the text, trying to see if she can decipher your tone from just the words alone. It's something you've told her countless times when she told you she'd be staying at Vision's place. Yet, somehow, this feels different. 

You stop replying to her after that. It's both a relief that Wanda could stop digging herself into another hole and a torture she's left without much to do again. 

Wanda checks some of her other texts and replies to them, but her battery life is getting exceedingly low, and she doesn't want it to die on her accidentally if you do decide to text her again. 

The last time she opened the phone to check the time, an hour and a half had passed. There's almost a desperation to give herself up and come clean to relinquish herself from the sheer boredom, but Wanda holds strong since she reasons she'd already made it this far. 

"Hmm," Wanda hears you let out a deep hum. The mouse clicks a few times, and Wanda wishes she could see what you were staring at. 

Definitely not her confession video; that much comforts Wanda. 

God, she's bored. She's so bored that the fear has long left her body. 

It's a miracle when Wanda hears you get up and stretch, a few cricks released from your back. You leave the room, and Wanda hears the bathroom door shut. 

Wanda scrambles to get out from under the bed, nearly hitting her head 5 times. She quickly tiptoes out of your room, heading for the front door and opening it. Just as you're coming out of the bathroom, Wanda shuts the door as if she's just gotten in. 

"Wanda, is that you?" You call from the hallway.

"Yep! You're still up?" Wanda calls back, laughing nervously to herself about how stupid this all was, but relief she was clearly getting away with it. 

"Yeah, just thought I'd get a start on the editing stuff for Tony," you say as Wanda walks towards you. 

"Oh, cool," Wanda doesn't inquire further but says, "I thought you were staying at Raye's tonight?"

"Oh, uh," you seem surprised that Wanda asks. "I was having a hard time falling asleep on her bed. The mattress is too soft and gives me the worst cricks."

"Oh," Wanda nods, knowing that your mattress is memory foam but on the firmer side. 

"What about you?" You ask back. "Didn't go home with Darcy?"

"Uh, no," Wanda fumbles slightly. "Uh, it was good, but I, uh, was getting a slight stomachache from the McDonald's so I decided to go home."

You frown. "Do you want some tea? Maybe some Tums?"

"Maybe some ginger and honey tea?"

You nod. "Alright, I'll get some ready for you. Why don't you go take your makeup off and whatnot? We could watch some TV before we sleep."

"Oo," Wanda grins. "I think I saw some things come out on Disney+, let's see what they have!"

The rollercoaster of the night comes to a satisfying end for Wanda. 

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The next three weeks are odd for Wanda. During the first and second weeks, she was so busy with her clients and a whole PR mess that she barely had time to see you. 

She spends more time collaborating with her team about how they will dig one of their clients out of the mess they'd made or if they should just drop the client. She's barely been able to think about her feelings for you and what to do about it. 

By the time the third week arrives, everything at work finally slows down, and she has time to herself like a regular person again. Wanda reflects back on her position and the entire video-deleting debacle. 

With the fear and adrenaline long gone, Wanda can't actually tell if she's disappointed that you haven't discovered her feelings. Would things have just been easier if you had watched the video?

At the very least, it might be better in the sense Wanda wouldn't be stuck in the same place. 

Wanda's sitting on the couch, lazily trying to focus on her book but can't with her mind continuously drifting. You haven't been home as of late—Wanda only realized you've been out a lot for a week and a half now. 

Sighing, Wanda closes her book. She was getting bored again. You wouldn't be home until later, and she already spent an hour on the phone with Natasha earlier. 

Just as Wanda was about to text you to ask if there was any possibility you'd be home earlier, the front doorknob jiggled, signaling someone was putting in their key.

Wanda smiles, hoping she'll see you walk through the door, but smiles even wider when she sees who walks through it. 

Getting up from the couch, Wanda runs and jumps, latching onto the person. 

"Oof," the voice was gruff.

"Bucky!" Wanda yells excitedly as Bucky catches her, wrapping his arm around her to ensure she doesn't fall, even though her legs are around him. 

"Hi, nutball," Bucky says, but his mouth is muffled by Wanda's shoulder and some of her hair. 

Wanda slowly slides back down onto the floor, taking a good look at Bucky. Of all the people she adores besides you, Bucky is at the top of her list, along with Natasha, which is why they both have key fobs to the apartment. 

Bucky kind of reminds her of Pietro in certain ways, if Pietro would ever grow up and get a little serious. Bucky seems to know that and has cared for Wanda in Pietro's stead now that the guy has left for Europe since they turned 18. 

"When did you get back?" Wanda asks. "Why didn't you call? I would've arranged to pick you up from the airport."

"It's fine. Steve picked me up from the airport and we relaxed a little bit before he had to leave to the station to do some kind of sketch for a case," Bucky says as he takes off his shoes.

They wander back into the living room space and take a seat. Bucky had brought her some coffee and pastries that Wanda delighted over.

"So," Wanda says after a sip of her coffee. "How was California?"

"Hot," Bucky smiles. 

"You said you were going to train an upcoming actor in a movie, right?"

Bucky nods, sipping his own coffee. "Yeah, some new superhero movie. Pretty young; I think he just turned 18. Definitely now super ripped for an 18 year old," Bucky laughs.

"Does he need a PR agent?" Wanda grins. 

Bucky rolls his eyes with mirth. "Probably not since he has his manager handling everything, but I did pass your card along."

"You're good people."

Bucky snorts, and they spend another half hour catching up before he finally comes to the topic he's been waiting to discuss. "You know, Steve brought up something interesting."

"Oh, yeah?" Wanda raises her brow.

"Steve was bringing up how Bug seems to be seeing someone," Bucky says slowly. "And she looks a lot like you...like everyone else Bug has dated."

Wanda lets out a huge groan. "Steve should eat rocks and jump into the ocean."

Bucky laughs, leaning back onto the couch, and smiles. "So? What do you think?" 

"About what?"

Bucky gives her a side-eye, and she groans quietly this time.

"Fine," she grumbles. "It was strange to realize, but like, a good strange. I don't know. I want...I want her to look at me."

Wanda's blushing at the admittance to Bucky. It makes her feel shy, but also good that someone else close to her knows and will be on her side. 

"Have you confessed?"

"Not exactly."

"Ah, so you haven't done shit except probably rope people into your weird schemes that turn out poorly."

Wanda's jaw drops. "I have not—okay, well, I mean, I wouldn't say they turned out poorly." She would never tell Bucky about the videotaping incident. She was taking that to her grave. 

Bucky eyes Wanda, taking in the small expressions on her face and the muted longing in her eyes as she picks at her nails. "You're so much like me, sometimes I'm convinced that you're actually my little sister," Bucky grins, and Wanda mirrors him. "Don't tell Pietro that, though. He's gets so jealous."

Wanda just gives him an, 'obviously,' look.

"When I started realizing my feelings for Steve, I didn't say anything for a long, long time, and I've known I've liked Steve since we were boys making mudpies," Bucky leans his head back against the couch, the coffee resting between his hands on his stomach. "I kept thinking about what if Steve didn't feel the same? And then there was the whole Peggy situation, and I didn't want to break that up."

"You're better than me," Wanda sighs. "I would break them up in a heartbeat if I knew how she felt about me."

Bucky can't hold his laugh in for that but continues on. "I think a lot of those fears I had paralyzed me. I kept thinking I'd have more time and there was a right moment, or if I did certain things, Steve would feel the same. I just had to wait it out."

"So, what happened?"

Bucky gave her a wan smile. "Steve and Peggy, even though they'd be on and off, were getting more serious. One night, Steve told me he was thinking about proposing."

"What?" Wanda's jaw drops. She's never heard of this. "But obviously he didn't because you guys are together now."

"Yeah," Bucky laughs, "because I totally freaked out. I started saying he couldn't and then kissed him, and then started crying. It was a mess."

"Oh, god," Wanda rests her hand against her mouth. She could totally see herself doing that to you if you said the same thing. Now, she's starting to freak out if you're getting serious with Raye. 

"I think you know what I'm getting at," Bucky says, turning his head to look over at Wanda, and she feels vaguely uncomfortable. "You need to say something—now. There's no perfect timing. There's nothing extra you can do to magically know, and you're not gonna always have more time."

Wanda lets her head fall back against the couch, closing her eyes. They start to sting with tears, and she feels that same fear creep into her belly. Yet, Bucky's words resonate with her, and she suppresses that fear until it settles into a muted nervousness. 

"Fuck, I swear you and Steve planned this."

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Despite Wanda's talk with Bucky, she says absolutely nothing to you when you arrive home late in the evening. Wanda's eyes are glued to the TV, watching How I Met Your Mother absently. 

You seemed to have a long day yourself as you carefully sat next to her on the couch. 

The air feels weird, and there's a tension in your shoulders. It starts to make Wanda tense until you suddenly relax with a deep breath. You shuffle in your seat before scooting until you're pressed against Wanda's side, resting your head against her shoulder. 

The smell of clean laundry and leaves fills Wanda's nose, and she relaxes against you. 

"Wanna order in?" You say.

"Yeah," Wanda replies, pulling out her phone to see what she was in the mood for. The two of you quickly place an order and continue to sit in silence, watching the TV.

You seem deep in thought, but you grab Wanda's hand at some point, holding it with keen interest.

Wanda doesn't say anything. Her cheeks and the tips of her ears are warm as you stroke the back of her hand with your thumb. Her heart doesn't speed up, but it begins to thud noticeably harder in her chest. 

It continues like that until the food arrives, and it's also eaten in silence with the background noise of the TV. Yet, whenever Wanda looks up, she finds you staring at her, and you don't break eye contact. 

It's strange, and it's making Wanda feel somewhat nauseous. 

When the food is done and put away, the two of you settle back onto the couch, but Wanda doesn't think she can handle the silence anymore. 

"How was your day?"

You turn your head, staring at Wanda, and reply softly. "Okay...how was yours? Bucky told me he stopped by to see you."

Wanda tenses. "Yeah," she mumbles. "It was good seeing him again."

"It's nice that he's home," you nod. "I'm sure Steve is happy."

Steve doesn't deserve to be happy, Wanda pettily thinks. It was his fault that Wanda felt so nervous that she felt like she would puke. 

Wanda needs to say something.

She knows she needs to say something now like Bucky told her to. 

All those same fears and anxiety creep up, but frustration has also lingered in her since the day she realized her feelings for you. 

Wanda's tired, she realizes. She's also sick of saying nothing and watching you be with someone else. She's scared but would rather say something and be put out of her misery than continue saying nothing. 

Just as Wanda is about to say something else, you say something first. 

"I broke up with Raye."

Just like that, the wind is blown out of her sails, and Wanda's brain stalls. "What?"

"I," you clear your throat, "broke up with Raye."

"When?"

"A week and a half ago."

"And you're just telling me now?"

Your brow scrunches, and you turn in your seat to fully face Wanda as you cross your legs on the couch. You're fidgeting with your fingers in your lap. "Yes...I needed to think."

"Think about what?"

You wet your lips. "If...if it was worth it potentially ruining our friendship for something more."

Wanda's heart drops like an amusement park ride. Her stomach feels the same way it does when an airplane is ascending. 

She had all these things she was going to say to you just a minute ago, and now her head was empty, and all she could think about was what you were trying to say.

"I think it is...if you feel the same, which I know you do unless something's changed in the last three weeks."

"How do you know?" Wanda frowns. Then again, she wasn't trying to be sly about it the last few months. Maybe you've finally caught on. 

Wait, Wanda pauses. Three weeks? That was when—

You pull out an SD card from your pocket. Wanda's around you enough to know what that is, and her stomach sinks. 

"You know," you give her a small smile. "I was trying to edit the video together for Tony the night after the party, but as I was going through the footage, a third of the photos or videos were corrupted."

Wanda thinks back to the USB she returned to Darcy. Dammit, Darcy! That lying, sneaking, betraying—

"I didn't think much of it, but I had to meet up with the videographer to get the original files. You'd never guess what was on there," you smile wryly. "Or maybe you do since you've somehow deleted it from my Google Drive...and corrupted the other files, so I'd have to get the originals. Very conflicting motives I was getting."

"I didn't mean to corrupt the other files," Wanda mumbles. "But you should probably get your laptop professionally cleaned..."

You give her a weird look but chuckle with a shake of your head. "You're super kooky, you know."

"I do know," Wanda rolls her eyes. "I think you know as well."

"I thought I might've seen you on my first date with Raye. That rock that hit that car wouldn't happen to be something you know about, do you?"

"Not at all," Wanda replies quickly. "But if I did, I'm sure the person would want to say she wasn't aiming for the car or your head."

"So, just Raye's head?"

"Once again, not a clue what the intention was as it wasn't me."

You laugh, and Wanda joins in until it fades, and you bite your bottom lip. "I don't know how any of this works, Wanda. I've never dated anyone I consider my best friend."

"I would hope not," Wanda raises her brow at you. "That means someone else was your best friend and you've committed the ultimate betrayal."

You roll your eyes with a mirth and a smile. 

"I haven't either," Wanda says softly, slowly turning fully toward you, grabbing your hand, and lacing your fingers together. "But I want to. And no matter what happens, we're gonna be okay. I don't think I'll ever love anyone the way I love you. I think I've loved you for a really, really long time."

"Me too," you mumble, squeezing Wanda's hand, feeling shy. "I don't think I ever really thought about it. I just love you. You're my best friend and I love you."

"Now I'm your girlfriend," Wanda grins, leaning closer and closing her eyes.

"Whoa, okay, let's not get ahead of ourselves now. What if we're not even sexually compatible?" 

Wanda pulls back and looks at your face, shocked. It's stony and serious until your lip twitches and Wanda smacks you.

"Ugh, you're such a brat!"

"No, that's you. I'm stinky."

"Stinky."

"Brat."

"Bug."

"Witch."

"Oh, we're bringing back middle school nicknames, are we?" Wanda narrows her eyes at you. You're about to say something else, but Wanda's had enough.

Didn't she think something earlier about being sick of saying nothing? What was she thinking? Saying nothing sounds ideal.

Wanda launches herself across the seat into you, hearing you grunt as she topples you over onto the couch and presses her lips against yours. 

It's not a dream this time, Wanda's very sure. 

This was much, much better than any dream could give her. It feels better. 

Your lips are soft, and you taste faintly like the cookie you split with her earlier. 

Oh god, oh god, oh god, Wanda's mind is racing. She's finally kissing you.

Oh my god, she was kissing you!

You were kissing her back!

Wanda kisses you, pressing her lips over yours over and over as your fingers trail over the outside of her thighs and stroke up to her back. You're bolder than her as your fingers dip under her shirt, pressing her against bare skin. 

It's thrilling; Wanda almost can't lie still on top of you. Goosebumps are forming, and it's forming everywhere. 

You break the kiss, lips caressing her jaw, and scatter light kisses as they trail down her throat. 

Your hand moves higher up Wanda's back and pauses. 

"No bra?" You raise an eyebrow at her. 

"I didn't leave the house today," Wanda mumbles, pressing a chaste kiss to your temple. 

You hum. "No complaints here," you resume your caresses of her bare skin but pause again. "Wanna move to the bedroom?"

No, Wanda thinks. She doesn't want to detach herself from this position. She doesn't want your touch or your kisses to stop. 

You can tell that Wanda's debating the pros and cons, and you try to persuade her. "A bed will give us more room to do things...and I want to do a lot of things..." You nibble on her collarbone. 

Wanda lets out a soft moan, and her toes curl. 

"Okay, fine," Wanda acquiesces, getting up and pulling you along with her. "Move quickly, though. No dallying."

"Dallying? I would never," you smile as Wanda pulls you down the hall. "I'll mirror you perfectly."

"I think you always have," Wanda says softly, turning to look at you. "That's why it's taken us so long to get here. We're stupid."

You laugh. "Seems like one of us deviated from our mirror, mirror dance."

The two of you enter Wanda's bedroom, and she falls back onto it, pulling you on top of her. 

Your body heat spreads across hers, and Wanda thinks she's dizzy again. 

"Good," Wanda mumbles, cupping your face, her thumb stroking your cheek. "I'm tired of us being chickens."

You press a kiss to her, smiling against her lips. One arm wraps around Wanda while the other trails under the front of Wanda's shirt. 

"Speak for yourself," your fingers trail higher and higher. "Maybe I'm just stupid." You press another kiss, lingering a moment longer, and then pull away. "Chicken."

"Stupid," Wanda smiles, her lips grazing yours when she does. 

"Witch."

"Bug."

"Brat."

"Stinky."

"I love you."

"I love you more."

Wanda feels something so peaceful settle over her. The butterflies in her stomach flutter around from your touch, but she's so happy. She thinks she might cry if she thinks about it too much because this was all she ever wanted. 

Wanda focuses on the feel of your hands on her skin instead and how you're making her feel hot. She focuses on the feel of your lips against her skin, the sound of her breaths, and your soft moans. 

There's no way the two of you aren't sexually compatible, but Wanda's eager to find out exactly how compatible they are...over and over. 

As your lips trail lower and more clothes are removed, Wanda idly thinks that maybe Steve doesn't need to eat rocks and jump into the ocean. 

EPILOGUE

[augusgus]

he only wants to play (m.)

In which you attach a leash to Dottore's harness but fail to take into account that not every dog can be tamed. Alternatively: he bites.

pairing: dottore x fem!reader

tags: biting, finger sucking, reader's a bit of a brat, does this count as pet play?? mock pet play?? things mistakenly filed under pet play???

a/n: happy april fools day

Dottore was enjoying the silence. It was a rare moment of peace. Until it suddenly wasn't.

A click. And then, "gotcha!"

Admittedly, it took him a moment to comprehend the situation in its entirety, and that there was now a leash attached to the harness on his upper body. A leash that, when he trailed along it with his eyes, led to your hand holding it.

And the mischievous grin on your face as you tilted your head to the side.

"Aren't you a pretty boy," you cooed, reaching with your free hand to pat his hair before jumping to sit on the desk in front of him. Your feet were dangling from the edge and much too close to his pristine white suit to his liking. Not that he seemed to have a say in this situation anyway.

Tugging slightly on the leash, you tested the waters. But you were lucky and he wasn't annoyed so much as simply unimpressed with your little performance, and maybe - not that he'd admit to it - even a little intrigued.

You crossed your legs over each other and, smiling brightly, pulled on the leash again - only this time a lot stronger than before and Dottore found himself leaning forward, his head automatically raising to look up to you. You puckered your lips at him in an imitation of a kiss.

"Now, give me a bark, pretty please~"

He scoffed.

"And why, pray tell, would I want to do that?" It was the first time he'd opened his mouth ever since you'd disturbed his solitude and it showed in his tone. He sounded dry, very dry, almost sarcastic.

Because he sure as hell didn't want to... bark.

This time, you tilted your head to the other side, blinking big innocent eyes at him. "How do I put this..." You pretended to think, index finger lightly tapping against your lower lip, but he could fathom the curl at the outer corners of your mouth. "There might be a way for you to get a lot more funding for your research! Though there's still some, should I say, cajoling to do?" You grinned, "you know, for assurance."

He kept quiet for a moment. As a scholar, nothing should be put above knowledge, and gaining access to said knowledge, in terms of importance. If he let a promising opportunity for funding go to waste, it would be more than merely irresponsible. It'd be downright stupid and he prided himself on being a little more intelligent than that. Not even his pride was to take precedence over this duty that he knew himself to be bound by.

Not even his pride...

He winced inwardly.

"...Woof."

The way the word rolled over his tongue was crisp with thinly veiled distaste and reluctance. You didn't think you'd ever heard something pronounced this harshly.

A giggle erupted from your mouth before you could hold it back. "What a good boy! Now, hand!"

Holding out your own hand, you eagerly waited for him to put his gloved one in yours. Only to be surprised when he instead interlaced his fingers with yours to pull you towards him and off the desk with a calculated tug. You almost fell onto his lap, stumbling over his outstretched legs, though you were able to brace yourself against his chest with your free arm. Your eyes widened when you found yourself face to face to Dottore.

He grinned as he slowly guided both of your hands towards his mouth, easing them until your palm rested against his cheek, the tips of your fingers just about brushing over the edge of his mask. Turning his head slightly, he leaned into your touch and it was already too late when alarm bells started to ring in your head at his sudden affection, for you to stop him from roughly digging his teeth into your palm.

"Ah?" The sound you made was fleeting, an involuntary reaction, and you could feel his lips forming a lazy smile against your skin. He let go, deep indentations left on your palm.

"Hm? Not what you wanted?"

The smug satisfaction in his voice made you scowl. But when you tried to pull your hand back he held it pressed against his cheek, grip not wavering the slightest even as you kept tugging.

"Perhaps..." He hummed, "ah, would you have me do this instead?"

Nuzzling his nose against your palm, he slowly kissed over the bite marks, lips cool and firm on your heated skin. You couldn't see his eyes but you felt the heaviness of his gaze, the unspoken challenge in it, as he eventually lifted your hand from his face only to tighten his hold around your wrist almost painfully.

You gave him a pout, "le'go. You're s'pposed to be obedient, you're no fun like that."

"Oh?" His voice was laden with condescension. "Aren't I a good boy?"

The huff caught in your throat when he raised your fingers to his lips and without warning sucked your thumb into his mouth.

It felt warm and wet and heat flooded your face with embarrassment at how the pressure of his tongue sent shivers down your back. How you lost the strength in your knees when he grazed along the skin with his teeth - the amusement that was radiating off of him as palpable as the slight trembling in your limbs that you couldn't seem to control.

He released your thumb with a quiet pop and a string of saliva connected to his lips before he pressed a sloppy kiss against the tip.

"Still not a good boy?" He drawled, the patronising smirk he sent you positively arrogant. "My, how difficult. Behaving doesn't appear to be my forte, don't you think?"

Lifting your index finger to his mouth next, he lightly bit down on it, just hard enough to make you feel his intention. A whine bubbled up in your chest when he soothed over it with his tongue but you managed to swallow it before it could reach his ears - the visual alone enough to have heat pooling between your legs, let alone the sensation of him wrapping his lips around your finger. For some reason it felt much too intense and... indecent, this warmth and intimacy.

With his gloved hand pushing down on your wrist, he opened his mouth to show off your finger pressed against his tongue - and this time you couldn't help but whimper. You didn't pull away, despite your embarrassment, despite the unexpected turn the situation had taken. You were mesmerised by the spit running alongside your finger and over the side of your hand, the wetness it left in its wake. By how turned on you were by it all and how it only served to fan the heady feeling fogging your mind.

With a smile he kissed down along the skin. Small, tantalising kisses until cool lips landed on your palm where he traced the markings left by him.

"For how little fun I supposedly am," Dottore mused sardonically, "you appear to be enjoying yourself quite... a lot."

He turned his head until his chin was resting on your palm. A mockery to the obedience you were demanding earlier.

"I suggest you try on the leash this time." He guided your hand to your own mouth, smearing the wetness that had remained on your thumb over your lips. "perhaps I will make you my bitch then."

[anonymouspuzzler]

you know what? fuck you (heartbreak gulch's my own guys)

(@heartbreakgulch courtesy of the inimitable @strangegutz & collaborators, also miscellaneous Thoughts under the cut bc it's my blog no one can stop me the doors have closed behind you)

HEARTBREAKER BULKHEAD:

Probably does not have superpowers anymore but still came from a family of considerable influence and was under pressure to inherit, pressure which he very much Broke Under.

Turned to a life of crime, definitely got in over his head with it, and essentially got rescued by Eddie, who he is Utterly Obsessed With And Heartsick For.

Has spent literal years as one of Eddie's attack dogs and generally jumping through hoops for him for Whatever Scraps Of Affection He Can Get, though he's still kind of squeamish around Literal Murder and thus tends to be assigned to supply runs and such most of the time.

Amateur mechanic and car enthusiast. Probably did a lot of McGyver-ass fixes around the Gulch-slash-generally assisted Ami til Davey was recruited.

Speaking of, was still the guy who recruited-slash-rescued Davey. They fell for each other hard and are in a committed relationship now, which has helped Buck take a little bit of a healthier step back with whatever the hell he and Eddie have going on (and helped him be a little less jealous and curmudgeonly about the Hot Young Things In Town, ie Zeki and Felix).

Absolutely not prepared to be a guardian to Minnie which has led his and Eddie's whole Relationship to enter a fun new stage of "hey man can I ask you for parenting advice nothing weird"

HEARTBREAKER DYNAMO:

Pretty similar backstory to the Villain-Coded version. Civilian turned criminal, lost his arm when he got in over his head on a job and Buck rescued him.

Has a bunch of different prosthetics he swaps out for different purposes, ie. one for combat, one to use for mechanic work, a kinda general use/everyday one, etc. That said, he goes without a lot to make sure he's prepared for a situation where he doesn't have access/one breaks or fails on a job/etc.

An alarmingly good recruit; I feel like originally Eddie kind of let him stick around as a kind of "gift" to Buck, but now that he's actually got him on jobs he's become a real rising star. Real good in a scrap and is a little more flexible with his moral lines in the sand compared to Buck. Outside of that he works with Ami a lot doing mechanics and repairs - probably interested in learning CompanDroid maintenance/repair but figures it'd be skeevy for him to push that point too much.

He and Eddie have a complicated relationship I think. They'd be kinda suspicious/distrusting of each other but also have a LOT of similarities and work really well together. To say nothing of their respective relationships with Buck.

I don't think he's Trying to Uncle the younger recruits in the Gulch but he definitely Does. He likes White a lot. He and Ami would also definitely get along really well. He is being The Bigger Man and Mature Adult and not giving Felix a wedgie no matter how badly he wants to

HEARTBREAKER(?) MINNIE:

From the same family of prominence as Buck and is currently very much on the run after a failed attempt to kill her own dad.

Extremely a city kid and is Not necessarily adapting well to Middle Of Nowhere Self Sustained Living.

Knew Of Buck but never met him before this so his whole Life and Little Criminal Commune featuring Multiple Guys He's Got SOMETHING Going On With is. it's a lot

Would like to do some crime actually but is A) still a little traumatized and adjusting to the whole Situation and B) 13 Whole Real Human Years Old.

Fascinated by Zeki's whole deal and his work but I think they would absolutely bring out the worst in each other they would fight so much. Autism to autism hostility

Having a very complicated response to White and Ami wherein she thinks they're SO cool but interacting with them at any length would make her realize Things About Herself that she's not consciously ready to confront so just like. Imagine being White and looking over your shoulder and that 13 year old is just Intensely Staring At You Unblinking from around a corner and as soon as she realizes you've seen her she turns around and runs off as fast as she can directly into a wall

Zarita absolutely hitting that Cool Just Slightly Older Kid niche for her.

[wyrmswears]

Hiii!

I know the au ain’t about Jay, but does he have an animal form? How did Edd & Eddna found him or he does not exist?

I do apologize for the amount of questions not being libber related😞

Pd. I also love wolf children i imagine Libby just recreating the feral Yuki scene right?

Hellooooo!! Had to think about this for a bit; I really didn't give Jay too much mind when making this AU lol. Nonetheless, I really enjoyed getting to flesh out this AU further using your questions so thank you so much for asking! :D I made the AU for Libber and Ice but it's always fun to expand on other characters and how the changes the AU makes affects them.

This post turned out longer than I expected (oops. I love infodumping about my AUs, sorry lol) so the answers in their entirety are under the cut! Spoilers for Prime Empire and Dragons Rising (though nothing particularly about s2) are mentioned though.

The short answers are: Jay is still adopted, Libber left him at the Walkers' doorstep before dying. And yes, Jay has a wolf form like Libber does, but he can't access it until after the Merge.

The long answers:

The second question is easy - the comic on my other post initially had a third page that would've answered this but I found it difficult to get to flow well so I scrapped it. When the Walkers arrive home after coming across Libber, they find Jay on their doorstep. The idea is that she had left him at a safe place as a final act before succumbing to whatever killed her. (Much like in Wolf Children, I don't have a particular cause of death thought out.) Ed and Edna don't make the connection between the child on their doorstep and the wolf on the highway of course, because why would they?

As for whether Jay has an animal form... On one hand I find it very amusing when characters of non-human heritage turn out to be just normal humans, and Cliff Gordon is still completely human in this AU, but I also think it'd be boring to ignore his heritage completely for the sake of the bit. After mulling it over I've come up with this:

Jay grows up showing quirks that align with him being half raijū, but nothing that can't be explained by him being the elemental master of lightning or just a peculiar (and probably neurodivergent) child; these are things like a fascination of thunderstorms, abnormal resistance towards electrical shocks, hyperactivity, a tendency to chew on things...

He has no idea that his biological mother wasn't human until after the events of Prime Empire when Wu, now aware that Jay knows he's adopted as he used it to reason with Unagami, requests to speak to Jay privately. He explains that, if Jay has an animal form then he shouldn't feel like he has to hide it from the team as he is sure that they'd accept him, much like Libber's teammates accepted her. This is sweet and all, but Jay is very confused what he means about having an animal form. And thus begins the explanation of who or what exactly Libber was.

After learning that he isn't completely human, Jay isn't really upset - hell, Zane and Lloyd have both dealt with the same thing and it turned out fine - but he only talks about it with Nya. This is part of my general characterisation of Jay where I feel like he doesn't keep too many deliberate secrets, but does only mention certain things about himself on a need-to-know basis meaning that, while he doesn't care if the team knows he's adopted, only Nya, Zane, and Pixal know that he is (Zane and Pixal for being present at the end of Prime Empire). Nya 'needs to know' because she is his yang thank you very much. Nya helps him to research about raijū and they find out that they can come in a variety of forms. Jay thinks he'd look like a noble and mighty creature, maybe a lion or an eagle. Nya thinks he'd be a chihuahua.

Nonetheless, that seems to be the extent of it; Jay doesn't figure out if he has an animal form or how to use it, and all that's changed is that Nya has become a lot more aware of her yin's oddities. That is, until Dragons Rising.

I think after the Merge, Jay has no issues with accessing his animal form: much like his mother, he's a wolf-like canid. If you told him, he'd probably never believe that he had spent the first 20-or-so years of his life with no clue to his heritage and no abilities related to it when his natural state of self after getting amnesia is to flux between forms. Maybe it developed as one of the strange effects of the Merge, or maybe its a new ability as a result of his environment, much akin to Cole's rock golem. Nonetheless, it serves as a message to Nya that this isn't the same Jay she knew before the Merge. He flaunts his heritage to the team that he never told and has changed, both physically and as a person, without her there to see.

As for the P.S, I'm not entirely sure what scene you are talking about - there's quite a few where I imagine Yuki could be described as feral lol - but Libber is overall quite alike to Yuki in my mind, particularly when she is younger and less concerned with hiding her wolf side.

[strwbmei]

In the spirit of me fucking up my knee, could I request a short thing of Keqing/HSR Bronya princess carrying an injured reader?

~Teeth

(Also heya how’s it going?)

Hello, Teeth!! It's been a while! A lot has happened. Normally I'd say that I hope you've been doing well, but the fucked up knee speaks for itself. Not sure how you hurt your knee exactly or how bad it is, so I apologize if anything written here is medically unsafe/incorrect!

Keqing would go full asian mom style. She'd scold you for being careless, saying things like "I told you to be careful!" and to "stop being so reckless!" while dressing your injury. Her words sting, but you can tell that she cares with how careful she's being with you. Also, she insists on carrying you the same way a few days even after you've recovered. Acts strict, but you can get away with a lot more with her during the time that you're recovering. She'll even let you use her lap as a pillow.

"Ow!" You hiss in pain as Keqing tightens the makeshift bandage around your knee. She glares up at you, eyes full of disappointment and irritation, yet also with a hint of worry that only you could discern. "Well, maybe if someone wasn't being such an idiot..."

"Still, be more gentle! You're dealing with an injured person here, y'know?" You complain, and the other woman rolls her eyes in response. "I'm sure it isn't as bad as you make it out to be if you still have the energy to whine."

Suddenly, Keqing stands up and lifts you into her arms with ease, carrying you bridal style as she starts walking. You yelp in surprise. "What are you-"

"Taking a certain idiot to the infirmary." You sort of just stare at her awestruck because she's rarely so... gentle? It's hard to find the right words to describe it, but you're sure this kind of opportunity is rare.

"What, you think I'd let you walk around with an injured knee?"

"Honestly, yeah, a little bit." As soon as you said those words without thinking, you were sure she'd put you down out of annoyance and tell you that you're free to go to the infirmary yourself, but she only stays silent.

"Whatever. Just... don't worry me again like that, okay?"

Bronya... would definitely overreact. There's no other way to word it. Her expression would be akin to a wounded puppy. She'll have all of the best doctors in Belobog taking care of you and the most luxurious bed for you to lay on even if your injury isn't that bad. Qlipoth bless her soul if the doctors even mention the possibility of your injury permanently impairing you, because she is most definitely going into cardiac arrest. After you recover, she makes it a point to ensure every place in Belobog is accessible to people who can't walk.

Although Bronya works as the Supreme Guardian, she's spent most of her life on the battlefield and she's learned many useful techniques from her experience. One of them is basic medical care.

She's not a professional, but her know-how has saved a few comrades' lives. Still, Bronya most certainly didn't expect that she'd have to use this skill of hers on you of all people.

"Bronya... I'm okay now. Really." You say; an attempt to console the very obviously distressed woman in front of you. With how much she's frowning, anyone that saw her would think that she was the one with an injury.

"No." Bronya responds, and honestly, this is the first time you've heard her so... stern. She knows that you aren't lying, but she sure as hell isn't risking your wound getting worse. "We need to get you to a doctor."

On second thought, it's too dangerous to move you around; it'd be better to have a doctor come here themselves. Still, the nearest doctor is much too far away, so Bronya decides to carry you there instead.

As soon as she picks you up, her mind races with a million thoughts all at once. What if it leaves a scar? What if you aren't able to walk normally again? Aeons forbid, what if you won't be able to walk at all? However dramatic, just the thought has her heart sinking.

She senses your unease and takes a deep breath, pressing a small kiss to your forehead. Perhaps her emotions have gotten the better of her. "I'm sorry, my love. You know how I worry for you." She smiles reassuringly. Whether she's trying to reassure you or herself, you don't know.

[hobiebrownismygod]

I think I asked this one before but I never knew if it got answered.

may you make a fic with hobie of how the reader is a villain and used hobie to (idk reason, kill him, invade the spider society, idk!!) and like no fluff, reader is pure evil and hobie had the most trust he ever had in someone just broke? 🙏🏽❤️

Hiii sorry this took me so long, but I hope you enjoy it! This is definitely different from what I usually write, but it was fun to try out a new kind of prompt! Thank you for requesting <3

EASY ☆ Hobie Brown x Fem!Reader ☆ MASTERLIST ☆ TAGLIST

⋆｡°✩

He was so, so easy.

It was so easy to convince him to let you into his house, his life, his heart. In fact...you really hadn't expected it to be so simple.

Compliment him a little, bat your eyes at him, tell him you think he's handsome, kiss him a few times, and he was already head over heels for you. You couldn't blame him, but it was funny.

To you of course. Not to him.

But it wasn't like he knew that you'd been lying to him. That you didn't really love him. You didn't really want to be his and for him to be yours.

No what you wanted was that watch. The watch that would guarantee you access to every dimension in the multiverse.

That was the end goal.

And that was why you were here.

Stretched out on his bed, lying next to him with a coy smile on your face, tracing his nose and lips with your fingers while his eyes fluttered open, a soft yawn escaping his lips.

"Mornin'" he said gently, a smile on his face as he leaned in to kiss you. "Morning" you replied with a laugh, kissing his cheek before snuggling up into his arms again. "How'd you sleep, baby?"

"Amazing, but only 'cause you were here" he murmured, burying his face in your hair, sighing under his breath. He felt safe, happy, which was perfect. For your little plan.

You'd only been "dating" him for a week or two, but he'd already opened himself up to you completely. Telling you how much he loved you, how you made him feel, calling you pretty, beautiful, love, darling, every pet name in existence it felt like he'd exhausted on you.

And it was entertaining, watching his expression slowly fill with admiration and love whenever you walked by, the corners of his eyes crinkle just slightly when you sauntered over to him to press another one of your gentle kisses to his forehead, tracing the slight folds of soft skin and the coarse yet gorgeous hair lining his head.

Your eyes never filled with the same love or affection, with only a fake, mock version of it to keep him content, to keep him under your control.

Easy.

It'd been even easier for you to figure out where he was keeping his watch. You couldn't just steal it. He always had it on his wrist, or close enough to keep his eye on it. He was cautious, but not cautious enough.

He'd let you in close. Close enough. More than close enough.

"Mmm." You murmured, kissing his lips gently. "You look tired."

"I am tired" He replied with a grin, holding you a little tighter. "There was a hell 'f a lot going on yesterday. Nearly got m'self killed" he grumbled.

"Aww, poor thing" you cooed, kissing his cheek. "Are you okay?" Your finger absentmindedly went down to his wrist to fiddle with his watch, your doe-like, understanding eyes fixated on him.

He seemed to notice this, his eyebrows furrowing slightly. "What're you doing?"

"Hmm? I'm not doing anything" you said gently, making sure to soften your touch on his wrist. "I think you're tired. Look at your lips, you're so dehydrated" You said gently, using your other hand's thumb to trace along his mouth. "Let me take care of you"

"Huh-" He tried to sit up but you pushed him back down with a kiss to his forehead, reaching towards your counter to grab a glass of water you'd already left there before. "Drink."

He looked as though he'd protest for a moment, a cautious expression on his face. "Come on" you coaxed, pushing the glass into his hand.

His expression knit together before he relaxed, letting his guard down and accepting the glass with a sigh. He trusted you.

That was a mistake.

As he pressed his lips to the glass, you felt your smile widen just slightly, gaze fixated on him as he drank down in small sips, more thirsty than he'd let on.

When done, he wiped the corners of his mouth with his knuckles before pulling you in for another kiss. You quickly dodged this, pressing your finger to his lips for a moment to stop him.

You couldn't let him kiss you. Not now.

"Hmm?" he questioned, kissing your cheek instead, the arm that was hooked around your waist slacking slightly. "Wha-oh-" He let out a quiet groan, grabbing onto his forehead. "Fuck, how long's that water been sitting out?" He asked quietly, coughing.

"Not long, not long" You replied, removing his arms from around you and standing up next to the bed.

He laid back, groaning quietly as he held his forehead. "What're you doing?" he asked confusedly, trying his best to keep his eyes open.

"Nothing important." You grabbed onto his wrist, fingers playing with the dials of his watch. "Just looking."

"love-" he tried to pull his wrist back but it felt too heavy falling limp as your hands held it up. "What's wrong, Hobes? You feeling okay?" You asked with mock concern, leaning in slightly. "Feeling dizzy?"

"What did you do?" He asked, his eyes beginning to flutter as he struggled to stay awake.

"Nothing too dangerous. Just a simple roofie." You replied curtly, fingers hooking onto the latch of the watch and slowly beginning to pull it off.

HIs eyes widened for a moment and he blinked, breathing beginning to speed up. "W-why?" he croaked out raspily.

"Because its fun. I've never been to another universe before" You said absentmindedly, taking the watch in your hands and inspecting it as you took a step back.

He attempted to reach his arm out towards you again, but it wasn't working.

As much as you enjoyed watching him struggle, you knew you had to get out of here soon. After all, who knew how long it would take before his spider powers overtook the drugs?

"I think that's my cue to leave" You said with a wink, taking his hand in yours. "For what's its worth, this was a fun couple of weeks" you whispered, pressing your lips to his palm, eyes making contact with his.

"Don't-" he whispered, eyes beginning to fill with tears, "please don't go"

"Don't. It's not a very fun word, is it? I've never liked it when people told me "don't" do something. And I definitely don't like it now." You let his hand fall limp, hanging over the edge of the bed.

"And the word "please" has never stopped me either. Sorry, Hobes." you said with a grin, turning the dial on the watch.

He let out a quiet sound of pain, forcing himself to try to sit up to no avail. He could feel himself drifting off to sleep, knocked out for who knows long, and all he could do was watch as you opened up the orange portal he'd seen so many times before.

"Catch you on the flip side" You gave him a cocky little salute before falling back, the portal disappearing only a few seconds after you.

You left Hobie alone in the room, lying back on his bed, with his last memories being your cruel smile and the smell of you coating his bedsheets.

⋆｡°✩

Taglist: @therealloopylupin2099 @spiderrinn @l0starl @daydreaming-en-pointe @itsparis-07 @vileviale @puff-hugs @d0ubl-tr0ubl3 @lauryn2558 @sunasslut69 @ask-1610-miles @axels-roses @eli21345 @s6onder

[beepiesheepie]

road rage headcanons

note i am going in with the assumption they know how to. If they have a license is up in the air (they probably dont)

Scout: My boy grew up in Boston, we have the worst fucking roads on the planet. Go ahead and google worst cities to drive in in the US Boston and Worcester will be in the top 5, trust me. Therefore Scout is a terrible driver. He tailgates, leans out the window to shout at people, middle finger all the time, slashes tires and breaks windows, etc etc. He's also just bad at driving. I think his first instinct when road rage takes over is to slam his palm on the horn and lean out his window and scream, even if he's driving, even if he's on the highway. Also he goes like 100 mph and passes people and doesnt use his turn signal.

Soldier: He also cant fucking drive, helmet covering his eyes or not. He's a generally jolly guy while driving though, just dont take him into cities. He will HATE waiting at lights. If he gets honked it, its all over for you, he will get out and grab you through the window by the neck.

Pyro: I dont think Pyro gets road rage all that often tbh, they're a calm driver. Sure the pyroland mask probably influences their choices and what they see but they're overall chill. Don't let them have access to under the car's hood though. Don't.

Demoman: He's nervous about driving, since he has one eye and he's destined sooner or later to become blind, also he's often drunk, so he usually lets other people drive. But if he's ever cut off and misses his exit on these shite american roads, or the shit maps and constant km to miles conversions gets to him, he will shout one big loud shout and then everyone in the car shuts up. if he's drunk he'll start sobbing and hating himself and then oh no the car is in a ditch

Heavy: You don't want to see Heavy mad. When Heavy is mad on the road, he will force the person who fucked with him to pull over and as they're screaming at him he will combine his fists and then slam them onto the car's hood so hard it's almost in half, then leave the guy there and get back in the car. He also shouts one big loud shout and everyone in the car shuts up.

Engineer: Man is also a quiet angry, but he plays the long game, he's more sneaky about it. He will use a device to fuck up someone's car without them knowing, offer to help them, then through his godlike engineering skills the car will do some unimaginable horror the second it starts up and he will drive away laughing. He isn't as skilled with the one big shout that heavy and demo are, so he'll be patient and wait until they're out of the car to fuck up Scout whoever was being loud and obnoxious in his car.

Medic: Does what Engie does, but to the person instead of the car. He also doesn't care if it's broad daylight in the middle of a city he'll just rearrange their skeleton right then and there then speed away. Average tuesday for him tbh. and also unlike Engie when he's done he'll be his usual cheerful happy giggly self right after as if it didnt happen. I think it'd take a lot to make him mad, cause he brushes it off by going 'im too amazing and sexy and beautiful for this shit'. He also HATES american roads, and hates having to constantly do km to mph conversions and drive on the wrong side

Sniper: He's the most chill i think, but he has definitely killed someone on the side of a road in the middle of nowhere and then left their body there. It takes a fair bit to give him road rage. When he does he just, follows. He's a patient man he'll get his revenge. I can also see him leaning out the window and giving the finger while shouting 'WANKA' though.

Spy: He does Medic's 'im too beautiful and sexy for this' but to a higher extreme. He's tooootally above road rage, toooootally. He toootally didnt leave a body on the side of the road and they still havent been found to this day, nope. His car is also expensive as hell, so no one touches him on the road for fear of having to pay damages on it.

[just-late-roman-republic-things]

I sometimes hear Octavian, especially young Octavian, described as like sickly, thin, on the shorter end, and blonde-haired. So I was wondering, do we have any reliable/contemporary physical descriptions of Augustus? And how do they compare to Agrippa, who I kind of imagine as taller/broader and more muscular (at least, based on the statues I’ve seen)?

When they stood next to each other, I wonder of the impression people got 😭

The only contemporary description I know comes from Nicolaus of Damascus, who personally knew Augustus, Agrippa and Mark Antony. He describes Augustus as very handsome as a young man, easygoing and a bit shy, and prone to getting sick.

Nicolaus is biased in Augustus' favor, and is clearly exaggerating how charming and attractive he must've been. But Augustus does seem to have been a bit of a prettyboy, based on Mark Antony's mocking insults. Cicero's letters support the image of Augustus as generally polite and friendly, though later events suggest Augustus was also a hell of a good liar...Many sources corroborate Augustus' poor health.

A few fragments of Augustus' letters have been preserved. From those, we know that he tended to skip meals, didn't enjoy rich food or a lot of wine, exercised often and walked most places, and was something of a workaholic. So he was probably on the slender side all his life.

Augustus' statues and coins are notoriously idealized; the man would've been all over Botox if it'd been invented. But even on the coins sharing his image with Mark Antony or Agrippa, he has more delicate features, so the statues probably do reflect how he looked as a young man.

Antony (left) and Augustus

Augustus (left) and Agrippa

A rare portrait of Augustus with visible wrinkles, ca. 20-30 CE, Louvre

Augustus probably had light brown/dark blond hair, and brown eyes, based on pigment fragments found on his statues. Suetonius calls his hair subflavum, "blond-ish" or "dark blond." Here's a reconstruction of the Prima Porta that makes the hair a bit too dark, in my opinion:

Suetonius gives us the most extensive description of Augustus about 100 years later. He agrees with the points stated above, and adds that Augustus was short (under 170cm) and had "a complexion between dark and fair." He also talks about what Augustus looked like as an older man (blemished teeth, thick eyebrows, a weak left leg). And Suetonius claims Augustus had a birthmark shaped like the Big Dipper...which should remind you that this is the same biographer who thinks one of Julius Caesar's trumpets got stolen by a ghost. Yeah.

Agrippa's portraits are more realistic than those of Augustus, and show noticeable aging over time. He does seem to have had a more square jaw and stockier build.

Agrippa probably was taller and stronger than Augustus - but then, most dudes are. Hell, I'm pretty sure my Pomeranian could take Augustus in a fight.

That said, Agrippa may have had a disability of his own. Pliny the Elder alludes to a limp (or other weakness in his legs) in childhood, and it's not clear whether Agrippa grew out of it or not. Agrippa also had a lot of pain in his feet later in life. Pliny the Elder has a lot of errors, but his notes on Agrippa's life are usually reliable, since he had access to Agrippa's memoirs. That's all I know about Agrippa's appearance.

I think a lot of our mental images of Augustus, Agrippa and Antony come from how Augustus and Antony played up their contrasts. Augustus modeled his image after Apollo, and thus with the arts, knowledge, law and civilization. Antony likened himself to Dionysus: loud, joyous, gregarious, irrepressible, emotional. Agrippa's story in turn is often contrasted with Augustus again, to the point that people sometimes diminish Augustus' abilities. Even I call him a sun-sensitive twink in platform shoes - which he was.

Real people are more complex than archetypes, though. Antony happily joined philosophy classes in Greece; Augustus slowly got better at managing military campaigns on his own; Agrippa really was brilliant and loyal, but he also benefited from the proscriptions and was buddies with Herod. I love it when stories embrace historical figures' complexity, and let us grapple with messy feelings about them.

[monstersdownthepath]

You have dropped mysteriously into the world of Golarion. The Core 20 gods are focused on you. For the purposes of how strong Rovagug actually is, we’ll throw him to one side and pretend Dahak takes his place.

Each god has access to its realm and armies, naturally. You may choose four to defend you. The other sixteen will try to kill you. Which gods do you choose to place your faith in?

------

[gets halfway through the second paragraph]

Gorum. Wait there's more text here,

[reads the rest of the paragraph]

For the purpose of this challenge, I'm also removing Pharasma as a choice of ally OR enemy; it'd be too easy to choose her as an ally and have the rest of the gods risk destroying the universe if they tried to attack the Boneyard.

As for my answer:

Gozreh and the Prismatic Ray (Desna, Shelyn, Sarenrae). Sure, I could have stuck with Gorum instead of Gozreh, but no army can compete with a hurricane. I'd rather have the skies and seas on my side. "Each god has access to its realm," you say? Cool. Gozreh lives inside the material plane. They're always nearby!

As for the Prismatic Ray, I trust in the strength of the universe's most powerful polycule (and two of the eldest Core 20 gods) more than literally anything else. You may laugh at the choice of picking Shelyn rather than kicking her out and replacing her with someone else, but fracturing the Ray is more trouble than it's worth, and I'd certainly trust her to have my best interests at heart more than I'd trust the likes of Abadar, Nethys, Norgorber, Calistria, or Lamashtu (who were my other potential choices).

The only other possible replacement for Shelyn or Gozreh would be Asmodeus, if only because of the absolute authority he possesses over the Archdevils, but I hate the guy personally and no amount of hanging out with Barbatos could make me okay with putting in my lot with the God of Tyrants. ... okay maybe. Maybe. Maybe there's a universe where I swap Gozreh out for Asmodeus, but I'm letting Desna into Hell through the back door to mess around in his office the instant the danger to my life is gone.

[analogwriting]

It Comes in Waves

Chapter 4: Plunging Waves

Trafalgar Law x gn!reader word count: 2.9k first|prev|next

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After you left on your own and recovered, you threw yourself into work once more. You were relentless in your pursuits, taking out everyone and everything that stood in your way. You fought tons of Marines. More or less, taking your anger out on them. You might have been just a bit more brutal than you usually were but all justified. You also made sure to take better care of yourself. You couldn’t have a repeat of what happened. Law and his crew weren’t going to be there to save you every time. That was just a crazy stroke of luck.

However, you grew sloppy and found yourself caught by the marines. You had stopped to rest at an island for the night and next thing you knew, you were in a small jail cell with your necklace missing. You were panicked, but you couldn’t let them see that. They had thrown you in this cell and you hadn’t seen anyone since.

You've been here for nine days thus far. You hadn’t seen another person aside from a faceless grunt who would toss food into your cell on occasion. At first, you had tried to demand answers but it fell on deaf ears so you gave up on that. What were they planning and how the hell did they know to make sure to take your necklace? No one just took something like that. It didn’t look special or expensive. 

The necklaces, to your people, were an extension of yourself. It was encased with a magical energy that basically made it a portable carryon. You could put anything in there and withdraw anything that was stored in it. But only you could withdraw the items. There was talk about once having a soulmate and having a ritual/marriage done to give them access as well but you never got to see such a thing in person. Your people had been destroyed before you learned about certain things about your people. And all knowledge of your people was limited or written off as myth. 

They really tried to erase your people off the map. 

The cell opened up and you assumed it was feeding time but you heard a groan and someone was thrown into the cell with you. You blinked, jumping slightly and moving out of the way to avoid getting piled on. However, there wasn’t exactly a lot of space in this tiny cell.

Once the man was tossed, the marine left, locking up once more. You looked to the figure on the ground, unsure what to do in this situation. For all you knew, this guy could just decide to kill you.

Then you noticed his hat.

“Law?”

The captain of the Heart Pirates groaned as he lifted himself up and looked at you, equally as stunned to see you. Then his face shifted - he was pissed. He looked away, not speaking to you for a moment. You didn’t either, not exactly knowing what to say. 

After all, it'd been six months since you just disappeared. It was for good reason. You didn’t want to put him or his crew in danger. Not when Dalton and his men were out there. Not when they knew that you were here in the New World now. You opened your mouth several times to try and speak, but you couldn’t find the words to say.

“Fancy seeing you here,” he grumbled, leaning against the wall. You took note of the cuffs around his hands and for a moment, you were confused on why he had them and you didn’t. Then it dawned on you. Those were sea prism cuffs. You didn’t have a devil fruit. He did. That’s right. Flashes of that day popped into your head.

You shook your head, trying to stay in the present. “Where's the rest of your crew?” you asked. “What do you care?” You flinched at his harsh tone. You didn’t realize that your disappearing act would…upset him so much. Or even affect him. You were just some random person he helped, surely you leaving would’ve been easier on him. One less mouth to feed. One less person to worry about.

“Bepo cried, you know.” 

You felt your heart drop to your stomach. Bepo…cried? Because you left? You frowned, leaning against the wall and slowly sliding down to sit. You were still silent, not knowing how to respond. 

“He was absolutely worried about you. After all, you were still in pretty rough shape when you left. He was worried that you’d die out at sea without proper care.” Law looked at you, glaring. He was upset - probably because you had made his polar bear upset. You could tell he was protective of his crew. If this was any other situation, you’d find it endearing. However, you were getting scolded now, so you didn’t think it was so endearing.

“I can take care of myself,” you mumbled. Law rolled his eyes and shook his head. “That doesn’t mean people aren’t going to worry about you. Especially one that was taking care of you so adamantly for a week, hm?” You swallowed hard. Man, you didn’t really think about all of that. You didn’t think…

“I had no idea…”

“Of course you didn't. Because the only person you were thinking about was yourself.” 

Something inside of you snapped. This was crossing the line. You were doing everything but thinking of yourself. You left to protect them. You were thinking of them. Of Bepo. You didn’t want them to have to deal with all the bullshit that you had to deal with. You didn’t want anything bad to happen to them.

“Only thinking of myself?” Anger seeped into your words, causing Law to look up at you in slight surprise. He probably assumed he could just barrage you with venom and you just take it. But he crossed a line.

“You want to know why I left, Trafalgar Law?” You stood up, walking over to him and crouching in front of him. He tried to move back from you, but there was only so much room in this tiny cell and he just flattened himself against the Law. He tried to glare at you but he was clearly surprised that you seemed to do a complete turn on personality by his one statement.

“I left to keep you safe.” 

He blinked, confusion contorting his face.

“You saw what happened on that island. I'm wanted by the Celestial Dragons, Trafalgar. You know how fucking dangerous they are. That guy? Eviscerated my entire island to get me and my people.” Law's eyes widened and he opened his mouth but you cut him off. “Everyone killed or enslaved only to die later.” He just stared at you, clearly regretting his word choice.

“I’m not letting it happen again,” you finished, voice dropping and cracking some. Before either of you had time to react to your own little scene, the cell door opened, revealing someone who seemed to be in charge.

This man looked absolutely sleazy. If there was a picture in the dictionary for it - it’d be him. The air around him even seemed tainted. The atmosphere automatically soured. “Already getting acquainted, I see,” he said, sounding just as sleazy as he looked. “Even a quarrel? Well, that’s perfect.” A sly smile spread across his features. Whatever he was thinking, he thought something was going according to his plan. 

“Let me introduce myself. I’m the man who runs this place. My name is Commander Kemal Lindsey.” He looked at you, his eyes raking over your entire figure and you fought the urge to squirm. “Sorry I didn’t introduce myself earlier, I was caught up in work. I’m sure you understand.” He winked. You thanked the heavens above you perfected your pokerface or you’d be in deep water right now.

“Anyway. Welcome to my island. You're prisoners here but I am a merciful man of the law. I will let you earn your freedom,” he said, that sly smile coming back. The one that made your skin crawl. It was as if a predator was watching its prey - which, in a way, wasn’t far off. You and Law exchanged a look but otherwise your expressions didn't change. 

“Every prisoner on this island is to compete in a racecar match. Which, in case you didn’t know, driving a car is different from a boat. They don’t drive the same,” he explained. You both looked at him with your deadpanned expressions. The commander seemed irritated that you both weren’t sweating at the mention of having to drive cars. Not many islands had cars to begin with so the chances that people have driven them was already low. Pirates driving them? Close to none. 

He clicked his tongue, moving on as his scare tactic didn’t seem to be working. “The track goes around the island and will have several obstacles and traps. You will circle the island three times and the first one wins, obviously. Don’t worry if you lose, you’ll be able to race again.” The sly smile appeared on his face once more. “You will not only be racing, but you will be given a car that will be yours during your time here. You can modify it as you want during the modification period before the race. You will also be given a list of other contestants, other captains and miscreants. Just some basic information. Names, how long they’ve been here, their typical ways of attack. You will also be given a map to study. It will have the layout as well as all of the traps and hazards that will be a part of things.”

Why was he giving you all that information? Why did he want you to know about the sabotages? Ah, if everyone knew about the traps, everyone would be trying to push each other into them and make their competitors lose. It was basically a death race if you weren’t careful enough.

“You can race as many times as you want. Some have been here for years, racing over and over, trying to win their freedom. Some end up just working for us and the island as grunts. And some…” His eyes once again looked over you in the sleaziest way possible. It made your skin crawl. 

“Have been repurposed.” If you could, you’d beat the shit out of him right here and now but you couldn’t. Not when you didn’t have all the information you needed and now with the mix in of Law and his crew being here. You didn’t want him to get wrapped up in your stupid decisions. He already seemed upset at you enough. Though, you felt him seething next to you. Whether it was because of your argument earlier or because of the way the commander was treating you, you weren’t sure.

“Get on with it.” You spoke up, wanting to get past this horrendous introduction already. The commander’s eyes flickered back to your face and once again you just wanted to punch him as hard as you could.

“Mm, impatient. Might have to keep an eye on that.” He chuckled, shaking his head. He sighed, continuing his little…spiel.

“There are three…prizes. Those who come in third get their freedom back. However, you don't get any aid getting off the island. You have to figure it out yourself. All of the things you came with will not be returned either. That includes people. Second place gets their freedom and their ship back. Those in first get their freedom, their ship, and whatever they had brought with them to the island. Their crew, their belongings, etc.” He smirked, studying both of your faces.

You blinked. That…seemed incredibly easy for your case. All you had to get was third and you’d figure it out from there. Wait…you absently touched your chest where your necklace typically laid. Well, even if you still got third, that gives you the freedom to come back and retrieve it. There had to be a catch.

Then your mind drifted to Law. He had so much more riding on the line than you did. He had an entire crew and his ship to worry about. He had people depending on him. He had no idea how to drive either. Even if a submarine was closer to a car than a ship, it was still far from it.

“Oh, you two are a special case.” He licked his lips, seeing the look in your eyes. The two of you exchanged glances once more before looking back at the commander. Still, neither of you showed any kind of surprise. Commander Lindsay grimaced. “You two really know how to kill a vibe, you know that?” He sighed, moving on.

“Y/n, since you don’t have a crew or many belongings, we’re putting you with Trafalgar Law. He’s a supernova anyway, so he was already going to be a special case. So, in order for you two to win anything, you have to get first place.” 

Law’s eyes widened, but you spoke up. “That’s absolutely outrageous,” you spat. The commander only held up his hand to silence you. You hissed quietly, glaring daggers at the man. Maybe you’d kill this guy right here and now. Deal with the consequences as they come.

Kemel continued to speak. “However, since there are two of you, instead of having two days to work on everything, I'm giving you six hours.” 

“Hold on now, how is that fair?” Was he joking? “If you wanted to reduce it by half since there are two of us, you should give us a day at least!” You clenched your jaw. “You’re making us win first place in order to get anything and now you’re only giving us six hours?” The commander clicked his tongue. “Temper, temper.” He shook his head. “I think I’m being gracious in the time I’m giving you,” he said.

You lunged at him but Law reached out, grabbing your arm and pulling you back. You glared back at him and he glared right back. 

“Fine, fine,” the commander said, that disgusting smile plastered on his face once more. “Two hours.” A dark look crossed on the man's face and he grinned widely, challenging you to say something. You opened your mouth to say something else when you felt Law pull you closer to him so he could clamp his hand over your mouth. “Stop. Talking,” he growled in your ear. It was enough to make you stop and you just cast the nastiest glare you could muster to the man in the opening of the cell.

Honestly, in literally any other situation, Law probably would’ve turned you on but your life was sort of being threatened right now and not in a sexy kind of way.

The commander barked out a laugh, the sound bouncing off the walls of the very small space that you and Law were currently sharing. “That’s right, Trafalgar! Keep the feisty ones in check, right?” He winked at the man holding you and you tried to lunge at him again only to be held even tighter to keep you in place. “See you in a few days.” With that, Commander Lindsay was gone.

Once again, you two were left alone and you were suddenly very aware of Law's body pressed against yours and how he had just growled in your ear. 

You pushed those thoughts, and him, away. He let go and you spun around to glare at him as you straightened out your jacket. 

“Why the hell did you do that?” He spat, folding his arms, and returning your glare.

You were quiet, looking away.. You weren’t sure if you could let him in on your plan just yet. It’s not that you didn’t trust Law, it’s that you didn’t trust this cell. It could’ve been bugged. If you gave away your plan too soon, they could hear everything and act accordingly.

“Y/n. You’re usually so calm and collected. I’ve never seen you give in to anyone like that before. And on that level? What the hell were you thinking?”

You looked at him, incredulous. “Don’t act like you know me, Trafalgar Law. You don’t know the first thing about me.” You folded your arms, looking away from him once more. 

Law sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. “How the hell are we going to do this in two hours?” 

“We're smart. We'll figure it out,” you mumbled, sitting against the wall and pulling your knees to your chest. You had a plan. Two hours was plenty of time. Once more, you thought if you should tell Law about your plan, but you didn’t want to risk it getting out.

“Now who's acting like they know everything about the other?”  You glared at him. God, he could be so infuriating. “Pretty sure, if anything, I just complimented you, genius,” you groaned, rolling your eyes. Now you wanted to punch him. Only you knew that you wouldn’t actually. These were going to be a long next few days.

[edwinspaynes]

Since you've talked a bit about your idea for a TLH/DBD crossover fic involving TLH characters experiencing the modern world as ghosts, what do you think would be various TLH people's favorite/least favorite things about the 2020s?

I am GOING TO WRITE THIS CROSSOVER I am REALLY PUMPED AND PASSIONATE ABOUT IT.

The only TLH characters in my fic will probably be my core five, so I'm just going to do them. Also because that's what I want to do. Lol.

I think Cordelia would oddly be a massive fan of outdoor shopping malls. I know this is a weird one, but she would have SUCH a fun time browsing the dresses with Anna and Matthew and trying things on. Plus, what's there not to love about Dippin Dots? Dippin Dots for Cordelia Carstairs 2024. I can't really think of anything she'd hate right now beyond the concept of minimum wage work, lol.

James would be so so happy about the existence of audiobooks. You cannot change my mind. He would be able to take his books with him everywhere and would have the chance to read while he walked all over London. Much easier than what he did in ChoG when he read while walking about the gardens. I think that something he would dislike is streaming television because cancelation based on shitty and arbitrary metrics is the enemy of good storytelling, and I firmly believe that James adores storytelling.

Matthew would obviously ADORE the modeling and fashion scenes, especially those in major cities. I think the modern bustle of places like 2024's London and Paris and New York would appeal to him, since the world was a lot slower-moving in the early 1900s. It'd be a ton of fun for him to explore, speed around on trains, try vois (lol), and walk through busy high-end streets to get amazing clothes. I don't think Matthew would enjoy chain companies at all. Like, why would he go to Starbucks when he could go to a nice little hole-in-the-wall coffee shop? Diversity is the spice of life!

For Thomas, I think we can all agree that he would be a Duolingo Stan. Languages, an owl, fun colors and sounds - what more could one want? He'd probably also love YouTube and the ability to feel connected to other people sharing ideas with him. That sounds like a Thomas thing to enjoy. A thing I'm pretty sure he'd dislike though is public transit. Not because he's anti transit, but because he wouldn't easily be able to fit on the Tube or in a bus seat, which would be awkward as hell.

I think Alastair would adore Spotify. He'd have constant access to any and all music that he'd want to listen to, and once he became more comfortable singing again he could even start his own channel. However, despite this love for Spotify, I think he'd have a love/hate relationship with Smartphones. He's not someone who'd like being accessible 24/7 because he likes alone time and wants to just chill with Thomas.

[with-love-from-hell]

Heyy Storm 👉👈

I hope you're doing better again and that you can get some free time to rest too. I've been thinking about writing comfort headcanons for myself for a Mc with hypermobility but I feel like it'd be even nicer if someone else were to write it for me and I thought of you! Of course, there's no pressure and I won't be upset if you say you don't want to or can't for some reason /gen

My idea was writing smth about how they would try to help/take care of Mc when they get hurt because of their hypermobility, especially Beel and Barbatos for obvious reasons hehe. I do feel like it'd be really soft with Lucifer as well tho, and Simeon!

In case you're not sure about hypermobility, it means (in my case anyway) that I can bend/move my joints more than the average person and my cartilages are softer than usual too. Thus, they are more vulnerable and my joints can get dislocated easier, (I should only use 3/4ths of my strength) and sometimes even just a simple movement turns out wrong somehow and it hurts and click clacks. Especially my knees are a big problem because I struggle walking when they're hurt and they get hurt the most with me, which I do have support bandages(?) for but you'd still see me limping down the street tryna not cry :')

I am in another Lupus flair up, which is why my writing has been scarce, but I'm not flu-ish anymore! I can absolutely take this on, Oji! I'll try my best! (I hope you like it 🥺)

Mc with Hypermobility

Genre: Headcanons, Comfort Characters featured: Barbatos, Beelzebub, Simeon, and Lucifer Wc: ~ 1.9k Written for a Gn!Mc (you/yours) CW: mentions of disability and injury, some mentions of the boys helping you bathe/clean yourself, a little bit of over-protectiveness

Barbatos

First of all, don't expect anything less than utmost one-on-one attention, no matter the circumstances.

Obviously he has to serve Diavolo, but after your relationship solidifies, you are on par with his diligence to serving the future king (if not more important to him)

If he doesn't already know what hypermobility is after you disclose your condition to him, he will research the hell out of it to ensure he knows everything there possibly is to know about your condition and your needs, and will ask pointed questions about how your condition affects you as he feels the need to, to fill gaps in his research.

He knows how fragile humans already are, and he is already very careful and cautious about things that will cause you harm, but he can't predict everything (though sometimes it really seems like he can) and accidents happen.

When you do eventually get hurt for whatever reason, he will drop whatever he's doing to tend to you. It doesn't matter what or when or why or how, but he will make you his #1 priority.

Be prepared to be doted on for a very long time. You wont have to cook, clean, or do really anything on your own unless you are very insistent about it. He will even help you bathe unless you draw a firm line with him about it.

He will do what he can to mitigate any pain, and probably try to talk Solomon into finding a cure for your ailment using magic if he can. Obviously, you wanting said cure after it's discovered is up to you and he won't force it on you, but he doesn't want you to have to live in pain.

He will be more than willing to massage you or give you any sort of help with moving, doing his best to ensure he's well educated on the things he's doing to help. If you insist that it isn't his duty, he will at the very least help you get access to whatever care would be helpful in the human world- no matter the cost. (Also expect him to come with to every damn appointment and critique the PT or OT on what they're doing and how it could be better. lmao)

Beelzebub

Beel is a very active and motivated demon, so sometimes he forgets that his routines for exercising and other interests, as well as just his sheer strength and size, may take a lot out of a human- especially one who has hypermobility.

Despite the occasional air-headedness though, he always checks in to make sure you're okay with what you're doing when your with him, whether it be walking to a restaurant, helping him with his workout, or even just watching a movie and cuddling.

You are one of two most important people in the world to him, so he tries to be careful when he's doing anything with you, but he's not perfect, and neither are you, so sometimes you'll end up overextending or hurting yourself around him.

No matter how many times it happens or how often you reassure him that it's not his fault, Beel will still feel guilty whenever you get hurt- even if it wasn't involving him at all.

Because of the guilt he feels, Beel will often try to make up for it by essentially making it so you dont have to do anything. Like, ever.

I'm talking carrying you anywhere and everywhere, getting anything you need so you don't have to get up, or even feeding you.

Generally, after you're injured, Beel is extra cautious with you and ensures he treats you especially gently. He will also get very protective, and may even growl at one of his brothers if they are being too rowdy near you.

Expect lots of check ins- especially surrounding food. Are you thirsty? Do you want a snack? Are you sure you don't want a second helping at dinner? Oh, did you want this very specific condiment? He'll grab it, don't worry.

Simeon

Simeon is already so gentile by nature, but once he learns of your hypermobility, he somehow becomes even -more- gently with you.

Expect him to constantly hover where you are. Not suffocatingly so, but he's always within earshot, so if you call him he'll be at your side in a second.

He knows how dangerous the Devildom can be for any human, but it can be 10x worse for a human with a condition that makes them vulnerable. He has an inherent need to protect you, so he'll try his best to ensure you are safe from harm.

Unfortunately, he can't prevent -everything-, so there will be times where you do over-extend or get hurt. You've had the condition long enough to where you probably know how to handle it, but Simeon will be a difficult person to convince of this.

At first, before learning more about your condition and your needs, he will bombard you with questions of how he can help you. Once he learns though, the actions become second nature to him (You may have to remind him though that consent is important before he tries to pick you up and carry you somewhere lol)

Generally, he will try to be around you more when you're injured. It may take a lot of convincing for the brothers to let him spend the night, or allow him to bring you to Purgatory hall for a few days, but he probably wont take no for an answer and cart you off anyways, as long as you're willing. The brothers can be rowdy, so he wants to make sure you have a respite wherever you are.

He will dot on you lots, and get you anything you could possibly need- and then some. Often he will convince Luke to bake some extra sweets if you injure yourself, and you will always find him trying to do things to make you smile during times where the pain is really bad- like writing you a poem or doing something to make you laugh

Lucifer

Lucifer was already sort-of protective and helicopter-y over you before he would learn of your condition, but after you talk with him about your hypermobility, its going to be near impossible to get rid of him lol.

He tends to mother you quite a bit, and sometimes it can come off as nagging, but he generally does it because of how anxious he is. It might not be lectures, but just small reminders so you don't injure yourself. Ask when you need something in a difficult to reach place. Stretch frequently when you sit in odd positions. Make sure you don't push yourself too hard.

Lucifer constantly has an eye on you if he can. He will insist on doing any homework, projects, or cleaning in his company, though he cant watch you -all- the time, of course.

When you ultimately do get hurt or over-extend yourself, Lucifer's first instinct is to find out exactly where you're hurting, and do his best to tend to the area. His second instinct, though, will probably be to lecture you- especially if something that caused the injury was preventable with one of his many...many... reminders.

Despite the bit of callousness he may display when lecturing you, he will immediately take on a nurturing role afterwards.

Don't expect to really have to do anything. Often times you'll find he's already done the things that needed to be done. Any homework or projects will magically be finished, any chores or cleaning will be done with no mention of it, and there will always be plenty of your favorite snacks, desserts, and drinks within reach, even before you know you want them.

He will also neglect his own work to spend time with you when you're recovering or in any pain. He will distract you by playing a round of chess, or playing some music for you- either on one of his records or live in the music room. He will either constantly be in your room, or constantly have you in his. He wants to make sure you're as comfortable as possible.

He will also do any personal grooming for you if you allow him. Whether it be bathing, getting dressed, brushing/combing/styling your hair- any of it. He is more than happy to tend to pretty much any of your needs.

He may be a bit dictator-y about your time and activities while and just after you've been injured though. He will scold his brothers when they are too rowdy around you, and try to prevent you from getting involved in any of their activities out of fear that you may get hurt again.

His over-powering attitude toward your care can sometimes be annoying, but it definitely comes from a place of worry for your wellbeing. He hates seeing you hurt or in pain, and wants to prevent it as much as possible.

[steve0discusses]

S5 Ep : I don't know the episode numbers anymore I never wrote them down, so from here on out, I'm just going to number up from my previous post. So I guess episode 49

Fun fact I finished this post a week ago and then never pressed send. I can blame this on a lot of things, (work, illness, brain fog, etc) but at this point we just know it's the universe trying to keep me from finishing S5 of my Yugioh reblog, lmao.

So, last we left off, Sad Seto was next to die.

What makes this extra weird is that the other Seto is going to just watch this entire thing happen. He apparently didn't have enough traumatic disassociating while watching his Blue Eyes Wife die, now he will disassociate from watching himself go out in a blaze of glory, too.

Sad Seto's strategy against Zorc is not really what you'd expect out of the #2 of Egypt's court. Although...I guess before everyone biffed it, Seto was more like #5? #6?

He's above Mana I feel. Barely. Mostly because Mana probably isn't the right age to legally work, even in ancient Egypt when the working age is like...if you can walk.

But he was apparently so busy doing Aknadin's taxes that he's decided it's good judgement to throw himself at a 800 ft tall dragon/crotch/man.

for his credit, Sun Tzu's art of war hasn't been written yet.

And Sad Seto realizes his true purpose, which is that he has a smarter, stronger, and more powerful girlfriend (ish.) Which is a running theme on this show, as we all know.

In a bizarre cut that I can't believe they left on US TV...other than I think they couldn't cut this any other way, the penis dragon attached to Zork extended it's neck up to grab Blue eyes by her neck and just fling her into the ground, killing her instantly.

I don't like that the neck can extend longer. I don't like that it's a function of the dragon crotch. They knew. They knew what this looked like. Thanks, I hate it.

Also what an embarrassing way for Seto's past self to die. Truly the hieroglyphs about this event will be wild, and thousands of years later, Grandma Muto probably looked at this event etched into stone and just thought it was weird ancient pervert stuff.

Sorry if you were thinking Sad Seto would recover last minute and realize he's like the most OP person in Yugioh. He instead rotted from his hand and joined the rest of our Egyptian cast in Shadow Hell.

Leaving us with just Mana. And like kudos to her, but how on EARTH did she survive so freakin long!? Like of all of them, I thought Seto would be the last one. Not Mana. Not in a million years did I think it'd be the girl who hid in a pot.

But youknow maybe that's why she survived?

And then Bakura casually walked away from the only Seto who matters. Which is fitting, because if memory serves, that's also what Yami did to Seto for like half of the Battle City tourney.

It's such a weird strange bod on this dragon. It's such a strange bod. He's both got kind of a belly, but also is ripped to shreds. Such a weird bod.

In case you were like "We haven't given Seto enough motivation," we also toss in a few nearly dead brothers just to make sure we have properly traumatized this boy to the point where he'd duel someone who isn't Yugi Muto.

Seto decided magic exists 6 minutes ago, and he's already better at magic than Yugi Muto who's had access to it for YEARS.

Like he learned about magic in a different culture, a different time, a different language, and now he's fighting the final boss.

But it's Seto, so I buy it. He would speedrun his life like this.

That's the dialogue of the show where he says his first words were "neutron blast attack" and youknow...he probably has very few memories of himself as a child since his parents died and his other family put him up for adoption...but he knows his first words?

That, or Seto likes making his brand a reality by making up whatever nonsense it takes to make that brand legit. Which I can also see him doing.

Also please don't look at this foreshortened hand, don't look at it, ignore that this happened.

So thanks to Bakura's weird choice to drag Seto into this universe in the first place, now Bakura has to fight Seto and his 3 blue eyes that would not have existed here otherwise.

++++++ME RANTING ABOUT THE SETO ARC FEEL FREE TO SKIP++++

TBH it kinda makes the whole Sad Seto arc feel kind of like it didn't need to exist. Like this is the Seto fight that matters. This one right here, and although they share a name, it's not with the same guy who fought Zorc at the beginning of this episode.

And like I could add it to a list of problems with this season. But Sad Seto started out so interesting, and then forgot. It was like he only existed to introduce the dragon, and not explain anything at all about the nature of Seto Kaiba we know and love. Like the possession of Aknadin can be a parallel to how Seto was raised following Gozaburo's footsteps, but youknow...that's all old territory.

Like, I wish I had any sort of new growth from the interaction of either of the Seto's together in the same room, much like we've been getting from Yami facing his past self. Yami's been growing a lot, he's been facing his demons, but Seto? Seto's been walking around this desert trying find wifi.

(which like he did find a "wifey" which is almost wifi but wasn't as helpful because she was dead)

The Seto Kaiba who is fighting Bakura right now, is the same exact guy we saw at the end of the last arc against Zeigfried Von Schroeder.

Which means the reason that Seto is now souped up and capable of going up against Bakura isn't because of anything we witnessed here in this arc, but because of the weird horse guy last arc who taught him how to put up a better firewall.

And maybe there was a draft where Seto decides he is a spiritual reincarnation of the Pharaoh of Egypt. Maybe there was a draft where he gained a new ability. Maybe there was a draft where he realized the gravity of what was happening and wanted to save the world.

But it ain't this draft, unfortunately.

Seto is here not because of an internal growth reason, but because he was on a tablet in S2, and we have to know where that plot thread went to have an ending...but the show rewrote what it initially said in S2.

Like in the OG timeline, it was Seto who killed Pharaoh. But here we found out it was actually Aknadin who possessed Seto to kill Pharaoh. (and at some point in that fight, Pharaoh stuck his soul in a box and sealed away Zorc)

Sad Seto was apparently a chill bro the entire time. Just a nice guy who arrested half of Cairo and had a sort-of-girlfriend for about 8 hours before she biffed it.

And I would have been OK with that, if it were more interesting than what we initially thought happened in the past: where we thought it was a kickass Seto launching a coup. But unfortunately, it's not, instead it's a boy who started out powerless, and continued to be powerless despite working in Pharaoh's literal court. He didn't even have the power to not get possessed.

And I am sure there were other drafts, and endings are hard, and the author did get hella hospitalized while he wrote this season, animation is a miracle of many moving parts and budgets, and we were lucky to even get an ending to this show. So I don't want to sound like I'm complaining when there are so many worse directions this show could have gone. I'm just a little surprised it went this direction, mostly.

But say what you will about Yugioh, it doesn't like to be predictable, doesn't it?

+++++++++++++++++++OK I'M DONE++++++++++++++++++++++

Speaking of characters who haven't gained anything from being here, Tristan is no longer possessed!

Tristan begs his apologies and Yugi takes it gracefully. Which means, it's time for the main character of this entire show to finally re-enter the plot.

And they do so, in style.

Y'all I remember being excited about the look and style of extreme sports, but I do not remember this many heelies in the 00's.

Anyway, this is the link to read these in chrono order, you know the drill. See you next time to see yet another girlfriend biff it!

https://steve0discusses.tumblr.com/tagged/yugioh/chrono

[gardensnakie]

Who's better at poetry, Stranger or Sunny?

I automatically assume that Sunny would lean more onto the drawing side of art rather than writing, let alone poetry. I think it depends on how people see the character because based on Canon occurrences, Sunny takes a lot of inspiration from the outside world, like from comic books and movies when he dreams. He creates new adventures and scenarios that would lead most to assume that he would be a good writer if he practiced. In addition to his more darker thoughts, and his sad poem skill, it seems possible he'd be good at it. But the thing is, Sunny has trouble identifying how he feels, that includes speaking and even writing those feelings down. If he were to attempt to journal anything for those 4 years that he was stuck in the house, that would ruin the world he created for himself where mari didn't die. With how much he was repressing his feelings, trying to organize them into words would be a long shot. That's why Sunny turns to drawing, in can be incoherent as he wants without directly including the thing he wants to ignore. (And sunnys drawings are cool, I'm a sucker for violent, surrealism art) Even after the truth, I think sunnys poetry would be good and cool to read (I'm not sure, I'm no critic but I'd like to think sunnys poetry would be very vivid, sometimes incoherent) His poetry would be for his eyes only, I don't think he'd actively try to get better at it but use it as a way to be less stressed.

With rare access to pen and paper, Stranger has a lot to say but speaks in a cryptic way as a way to hold back. Of maybe it's because Omori/Sunny refuses to hear anything of the truth that Stranger is simply cursed to never say it out loud. Or maybe Stranger doesn't want to frighten them away and chooses his words carefully in order to keep him from retreating further into repression. I like to think about the second possibility. Stranger is capable of altering his words in a vague, but concise way to lead, question, or warn The Dreamer. He also has access to the Lost Library and practically most of the horrors residing in Blackspace. Every idea is different down there, it changes constantly, the abstract rooms and delusions is a gold mine for inspiration. Horrible inspiration, actually. (Kinda reminds me how most artists are troubled in some way, "thank you for the trauma, I need it for my art" kinda way)

Stranger had been down there longer since Sunny avoided blackspace as much as he could. Who knows? During that time, Stranger must've talked to himself a lot. He may speak strangely, not really using the words 'I feel' because spiraling is far too easy in a quiet place like that. He can't really draw. With personified fears and ideas from The Dreamer in all those rooms, Stranger doesn't want to draw them again as a mean to express his own feelings. How can you express the hell in your head when there is hell all around you? So melodramatic. At least Sunny sat in denial, surrounded by color. Stranger reminds me of someone doodle silly things, at least draw something where he hoped to be instead of living in darkness. Though, it'd probably make him more sad, so he'd abandon it somewhere. If he could, Stranger would write a lot. His thoughts could be like a little rule book to keep himself sane. Anger, guilt, shame, vile thoughts, disgusting actions, Stranger would make sure certain mistakes don't happen twice. He'd remember his purpose, helping Sunny remember. Certainly making him feel less worthless. If all this writing was possible, Stranger would be the one with tons of poems.

Ramble. Ramble. Ramble. Jeez, that was a lot of crap. Sorry if you were expecting a yes or no with a few sentences of reasoning, I wanted to reinforce a lot. It gave me a few ideas in the process, but all of it is pretty loose and theorizable (i didnt read check this, so sorry if certain sentences of explanation are a little awkward). But yeah, whaddya think?