#like she KNOWS we won't forgive. She KNOWS she's unforgivable

[blitz0hno]

There's incredible fear of people and all the facades they put up behind Kotoko's malice it's incredibly sad and worth noting the prison system does indeed reinforce to her the Violence is The Answer

[mcflymemes]

THE TORTURED POETS DEPARTMENT - THE ANTHOLOGY BY TAYLOR SWIFT PROMPT LIST *  assorted lyrics from the album, some lines slightly adapted for meme purposes but feel free to adjust as necessary

even if it's handcuffed, i'm leaving here with you.

trust me. i can handle a dangerous man.

i love you. it's ruining my life.

does it feel all right to not know me?

i am who i am 'cause you trained me.

quick. tell me something awful.

i loved you the way that you were.

we were just kids, babe.

i can fix him.

you and i go from one kiss to getting married.

you said i'm the love of your life.

way up there, i actually love it.

i just don't understand how you don't miss me.

do you hate me?

did you think i had it in me?

what if i told you i'm back?

i still miss the smoke.

i'm not trying to exaggerate, but i think i might die if it happened.

you look like stevie nicks.

it's hell on earth to be heavenly.

i still can't believe it.

this happens once every few lifetimes.

didn't you hear? they called it all off.

it's happening again.

my friends say it isn't right to be scared.

i might just die.

fuck you if i can't have us.

tell me about the first time you saw me.

are you gonna marry, kiss, or kill me?

no one's ever had me... not like you.

stay away from her.

there wouldn't be this if there hadn't been you.

i don't think you've changed much.

that's where i was when i lost it all.

life was always easier on you than it was on me.

i hoped you'd return.

do you believe me now?

what if your eyes looked up and met mine one more time?

what are the chances you'd be downtown?

is it something i did?

oh, we must stop meeting like this.

they say what doesn't kill you makes you aware.

i'm not a donor, but i'd give you my heart if you needed it.

looking backwards might be the only way to move forwards.

the story isn't mine anymore.

what a charming saturday!

none of it is changing.

wild winds are death to the candle.

one bad seed kills the garden.

i'm bitter, but i swear i'm fine.

this place made me feel worthless.

i didn't want to come down.

everything had been above board.

blood's thick, but nothing like a payroll.

you can mark my words that i said it first.

the professor said to write what you know.

all of this to say, i hope you're okay.

your words are still just ringing in my head.

i built a legacy which you can't undo.

who do i have to speak to to change the prophecy?

the effects were temporary.

no, i'm not coming to my senses.

babe, you gotta fake it 'til you make it.

you know you're good when you can even do it with a broken heart.

i guess a lesser woman would've lost hope.

thought of calling you, but you won't pick up.

you're a professional.

long may you reign.

you're an animal. you are bloodthirsty.

now i seem to be scared to go outside.

i don't believe in good luck.

i hate it here.

if i'd been there, i'd hate it.

only the gentle survived.

i'm lonely, but i'm good.

you have no room in your dreams for regrets.

i thought it was just goodbye for now.

are you still a mind reader?

let it once be me.

i haven't decided yet.

i still dream of him.

i'm so afraid i sealed my fate.

it was always the same searing pain.

i can't forgive the way you made me feel.

it wasn't a fair fight or a clean kill.

she used to say she wished that you were dead.

tell me all your secrets.

they tried to warn you about me.

you're in terrible danger.

i'm the life you chose.

yes, i'm haunted, but i'm feeling just fine.

no one asks any questions here.

tell me i'm despicable. say it's unforgivable.

i'm running back home to you.

you should see your faces.

you knew the price going in.

was any of it true?

who the fuck was that guy?

i don't ever want you back.

did you sleep with a gun underneath our bed?

you don't get to tell me you feel bad.

you wouldn't last an hour in the asylum where they raised me.

am i allowed to cry?

there's no such thing as bad thoughts. only your actions talk.

they're going to crucify me anyway.

i know i'm just repeating myself.

that's the closest i've come to my heart exploding.

[woso-dreamzzz]

Adjusting

Hardersson x Child!Reader

Part of The Big Adventures Universe

Summary: There's a lot of differences now that you live in England with your Momma and Morsa

The new house is different to Momma's apartment, you come to realise after a few days.

For one, there are stairs.

There weren't stairs in Momma's Germany apartment so you're excited that there are stairs now. You like to stand at the top and jump your way down.

You're a big girl so sometimes skip two steps in your jump.

"y/n!" Momma shrieks though, when she catches you doing it. She scoops you up into her strong arms and checks you over, like those times when you slipped and fell on the pitch after her games and grazed your arms. "That's dangerous, princesse. You can't do that."

She's talking English to you again so you huff.

It's a bit unfair she does this to you. She'll speak Swedish or Danish to Morsa at the dinner table but English to you. Morsa does it too but she makes up for it when she reads you a bedtime story in Swedish and tucks you in all nice and snug.

It's unforgivable when Momma does it though - especially when she uses it to tell you off.

"Why?"

That's another one of the English words you know. You like to use it a lot. It makes Momma mad sometimes. That's good though because now she'll know how you feel when she speaks English at you.

"Princesse, you could fall and hurt yourself. You can't jump down the stairs."

You huff again and wiggle out of her arms, sock-clad feet slip-sliding across the wooden floor to where you know that Morsa is sitting.

●～●～●～●～

That's another strange thing about Momma playing for Not-Wolfsburg.

Morsa is around more. In fact, you see Morsa every day when before you would only see her on a phone screen every so often.

But now, Morsa is always there. She reminds you to wash your hands and brush your teeth. She tucks you into bed and gives you your bath. She holds your hand when you cross the street and buckles you into the car - although she's not quite as fast as Momma at doing that just yet.

The best thing about having Morsa with you though, is that she always wants to spend time with you.

Momma had said something about Morsa wanting to make up for lost time but you're not entirely sure how Morsa could lose something like time because she's always wearing a fancy watch on her wrist.

Morsa spends a lot of time with you. She plays games and watches TV. She takes you shopping with her and you get to ride in the cart. She likes having you on her shoulders on the way to practice rather than keeping you on her hip or walking so fast that your little legs can't keep up.

Sometimes, though, Morsa does strange things that Momma would never let happen. Like that time a few days ago, when she didn't let you sleep in the big bed with them even though Momma used to let you so often that dust collected on your bedsheets in Germany and she had to get you new ones.

"You can't sleep with Morsa and Momma all the time," Morsa had told you that night when you whined that you wanted to sleep in the big bed with them," You're very little and our bed is very big. We might lose you."

You know that she's trying to make you forget about it but you're very smart so you don't let her distract you.

"Won'-Won't let you lose me," You reply in stilted English," Momma's big bed was big and she didn't lose me."

Morsa rolls her eyes fondly at you but still tucks you into your big girl bed.

She tells you two Swedish stories that night and a lullaby so you think you can forgive her.

●～●～●～●～

It's an adjustment for Magda too - finally having her partner and their child living with her.

She had been playing for Chelsea for a while before you were even a thought in her mind and it absolutely broke her heart when you finally came along and she had to go back to London.

She facetimed regularly and took flights over to Germany whenever there was a long weekend. She made sure that you knew her face and her smell and her comfort even though you were miles apart with Pernille.

Magda thought that she had been prepared ever since she had received that call from Pernille, saying that Chelsea wanted to sign her. They both knew it was a no brainer for Pernille to take the deal, to move to London to play.

Magda thought she had been prepared. She cleared out two of the guest bedrooms. She decorated the one that was meant for you, painted it your favourite colour, and built an IKEA big girl bed for you all by herself. She turned the second guest room into your playroom with a fancy rocking horse, a chalkboard and everything a little girl would need.

She cleared out half her closet space for Pernille and made sure everything was neat and tidy, shuffling all of her trophies and medals to one side of the cabinet to make way for whatever Pernille wanted to place inside.

She hung up pictures of your little family on the walls - the day you were born, your first time in a Wolfsburg jersey, that one picture of you as a baby when you were cradled in Magda's arms and even in picture form, anyone could tell that she was crying.

Magda thought she was prepared.

But nothing could truly prepare her for the hole in her heart filling up with love just like her house was now filled with noise.

Pernille liked to play soft music in the morning to help her wake up, an extra strong cup of coffee in her hand. You liked to talk rapid fire to your toys - a garbled mess of Swedish and Danish in your excitement.

You slid around in your socks, endlessly fascinated by the wooden flooring in some areas of the house because Pernille's apartment only had carpet.

The arrival of you and Pernille to London was certainly an adjustment - sometimes the pair of you were just too loud - but it was the small things as well.

Pernille had lots of memories of you dressed in her jerseys, going to bed in the ones that were actually her size instead of a nightie. Pernille had lots of memories of playing mermaids in the bath with you and making sure to kiss each and every one of your stuffed animals good night to make sure none got jealous.

Magda had so few of them so she was grateful every time Pernille took a step back and let her take the reigns.

"What if I do it wrong?" Magda had worried that second morning as Pernille got ready to hop in the shower, telling Magda that she should do your hair so they would all be ready to leave on time.

"You won't do it wrong," Pernille had replied softly, pressing a light kiss to her partner's cheek," Brush it through. If it gets knotty, spray it with the spray bottle. Then, ask her if she wants braids or bunches. She usually wants bunches but she's been on a bit of a braids kick recently. You'll do fine."

Magda had gone to protest, to say that she had never done this alone before but your voice rang out through the house.

"Morsa!" You called," Want you to do my hair! Erm...In-In...Er...Bunches! Want bunches, please!"

"Off you go, Magda," Pernille had said, nudging her partner into action," She's only little, not nearly as scary as she seems."

"Morsa!" You had called again, getting impatient. "Hair, please!"

Magda grabbed the hairbrush and spray bottle off the counter with a smile. "Coming, princesse!"

[kasdeyalilith]

A Love Too Late

Note: So the most voted character in the poll is Diluc! Almost beating Xiao by 1 % so I decided to add him too and another surprise character in another fic but knowing my works you already have some clues hahahaha. Anyways here's the requested piece also thank you all for voting and stuff it's super fun.

Warning/s: Angst

Character/s: Diluc x Reader; Xiao x Reader

Synopsis: Grasping at the end of the thread in the hope of rekindling the lost love with you, but they're too late because you've already decided to marry someone else.

DILUC

A knock echoes across the room before Barbara peeks in and told you that the wedding will begin. She excused herself, fidgeting in embarrassment, when she realized that you were preoccupied fixing your dress and checking your reflection in the mirror. A pathetic excuse, really, anything to delay making the most important decision of your life.

Marrying Kaeya was-is the best decision for you to make, after everything went downhill with Diluc he was always there to comfort and help you whenever you need it.

Yet there's always that nagging feeling that something is still missing, because even though you're happy with Kaeya now, the love you felt with Diluc is different. A love in its purest form that was ripped from you before you could even save it.

Loving Diluc will always be the best part of your life, but it's time to move on; even if you love Diluc, you know your relationship will never be the same again after what happened.

Sighing, you left your room tightly holding the bouquet of Kaeya's favorite flowers closely after making your decision.

You crossed the halls, counting the pillars before the looming door of the Cathedral came into view.

Caught up in trance you didn't even notice the shade of red before being led away. Your body, as if possessed, yields to his touch without even knowing who your captor is.

You have memorized and engraved that very scent and the curves of his hands, the dips of his shoulders.

He stopped walking but never let go of your hand, holding it closer as if you were about to vanish before his eyes.

“Don’t do it” he pleads

Head pounding from what’s happening, you drew your hand away in disbelief. Your eyes glaring at him as if anything could be so simple after what had happened.

“You don’t love him like I-”

“Don’t even start saying that bullshit again Diluc, we’re done and I know I’ll be happy with Kaeya”

His eyes shifted as the name of his brother leave your lips.

“By marrying him?”

He moves closer to you after he realizes you won't respond. His usual hard exterior is now bare and pleading as he stares into your eyes.

“I know all those things I did is unforgivable. I won’t even forgive myself but I am still in love with you (Y/n). I know I treated you poorly when you’ve been nothing but supportive and loving especially when my Dad- I shouldn’t have done all those things to you”

“But you did it anyway Diluc, I’m getting married now and the only thing you could do is to let me go”

“I can’t”

You faced him, your heart was burning and breaking so much that even crying won’t even be enough to show your pain, he's here expressing his everlasting love for you while in the past you've waited and waited for him to tell you that he loves you even if he's warming the bed of some woman he met at his tavern.

“You’re selfish you know that? Barging into my life again as if you can undo all that hurt you caused. Well shits been done Diluc, I’ve moved on and because I’m stupid and a pathetic excuse of a human I know that even if I marry Kaeya I’ll still care for you and that I can’t live without you but don’t make me prove that I can”

He moves to take your hand again but stops when you both heard someone running to your direction.

“(Y/n)? We’re all looking for you, if you’re having doubts and or anxious, I understand we can- what are you doing here?”

Kaeya's relief at seeing you was quickly replaced with a sneer directed at his brother.

“You’re not a part of this brother, best to leave us-” Diluc tries to hide you with his body but you stepped out of his reach before he can hold you again.

“No Diluc, we’re done here. Least you can do is respect my decision”

Turning your back to him, you keep your shoulders square as you brave your way through the halls.

You waited until the walls obscure your view of him before collapsing on Kaeya's embrace, silently crying on his shoulder as you ignore Diluc's shouts of your name.

XIAO

He could feel the wind shifting, he can trace the nostalgia gleefully dancing with the gale.

The yaksha leans into the breeze as he surrendered to it, his clothes flapping against the wind. It was almost like the sound of their laughter, clear and calming even against the howl of the wind.

“Haven’t seen you relaxed like this since forever” you teleported beside him

Xiao stumbles as he regains his composure, you’re always like this, even the vigilant yaksha can be caught lacking when it comes to you. Only you.

“What do you need (Y/n)?”

He tries to be stern, crossing his arms for good measure but blushes when you walk closer to brush a single leaf from his hair.

“I’m here to deliver this”

The adeptus was just opening the envelope you gave him when you started speaking, drumming your fingers against the wooden railing to hide the nervousness in your voice.

“It’ll mean a lot to me if you come Alatus”

A wedding invitation, adorned with red and crimson borders contrasting his teal blue hues. The sides of the paper crumples under his hand before he give it back to you.

“Don’t expect me to make an appearance, the adepti are very busy to even entertain such occasions”

“But Cloud Retainer and the others are coming! Even Morax and Barbatos and Ganyu even Madame Ping!” your voice reaching a note higher to make a point.

“Why even invite me? Besides you’re tying yourself to that mortal. A foolish act honestly, you’re an adeptus and you’re going to waste your life with someone whose life is but a fickle?”

“That mortal saved and loved me when I’m in my lowest-”

“And I do not?!”

Surprised by his outburst, you tried calming him down as you smile hesitantly.

“That’s not what I’m trying to say Xiao and you know it”

“Then leave me be, go and waste your life away with him. I don’t care”

“Let go of my hand then”

Xiao only glares at you, his grip on your hand never faltering.

“You’re always like this, you always push me away then act as if you love me back. I tried Xiao, I really did but I grew tired of all this. It was like always crossing a tightrope with you. When you ended the relationship, I respected that and still tried to be there for you because before all this you were my friend but I’m so tired Xiao. I don’t think I can even be in your life anymore”

“No. (Y/n), I- let’s try again. This time I promise to not hurt you so please don’t- I don’t think I can live in a world without you in it”

He speaks softly, his breath catching as he waits for your answer.

“If you asked me years ago Xiao, I would have said yes but I can’t betray Kazuha like that”

Xiao's heart breaks for you again as he gazes at you. He can't see the love you had for him in your eyes as you usually do, he can’t accept the fact that he’s too late and already lost you to someone else.

You sighed, used to him disappearing on you in the past, as he vanished in a whisp of curling black smoke before you could move. Unbeknownst to you, a teal feathered bird was circling the mountains of Liyue, his song crying of regret and heartbreak.

[eponastory]

ZUTARA...

Okay, so my thoughts...

Look, I'm an OG fan. I was a teenager when the animated show came out and boy oh boy...

Okay, so yes, I am a Zutara shipper. I have been since the show aired, and the way the show ended with Aang and Katara left an icky taste in my mouth. I'm not anti Kataang either. It just gives me... eew. Especially now that I'm an adult and I know relationships are messy to begin with. I don't agree that the show creators think that Zutara would be toxic... that is not necessarily true as Zuko's character doesn't support such a thing and neither does Katara's. Aang is still a child mentally and he doesn't seem to understand that people are going to do what they are going to do. Case and point, The Southern Raiders. Aang confronts Katara telling her that she should let it go and forgive Yon Rah... the only problem with this is that Katara needs to deal with her own closer. Forgiveness does not mean closure. Take it from me, a person who has difficulty letting go of hurts from the past. Some things I can forgive, while other things I can't because they are still a problem for me today, which is why I'm in therapy. It is not up to Aang to decide what Katara needs to do in that moment. If anything, he is showing his complete misunderstanding of her resolve. She is angry, hurt, and compulsive. She is feeling these things because her past has been thrown in her face by Zuko's presence. Because he is there, all that hurt is like a thousand daggers in her back. Zuko is letting her do. He is letting her feel, and for those who say he is encouraging her to murder someone, that isn't what is going on. He is basically letting her do what she needs to do. When someone is feeling that way, you wither let them feel it and support them or you get out of the way. People are going to do what they want. It's a hard lesson to learn.

Aang has his world view of peace and compassion, which is not a bad thing, but he lacks understanding. Probably because he is still a child and still learning the ways of people. People are cruel and sometimes unforgiving, but we can also be kind, loving, and filled with hope. Aang sees the good in everyone, except Ozai, which I'm pretty sure the only thing good about Ozai is the fact that Mark Hamil is behind his voice. But anyway, I like Aang. He's a good character that transforms everyone he interacts with. That is the best quality about him. The absolute worst of his qualities is that he tends to push his beliefs into the open without taking a moment to think about how others feel. And that isn't even that bad. It's a disregard of those emotions that leave a little bit of bitterness in my mouth. But that is something everyone struggles with at one point. That is just being human.

But yeah, this is just my humble opinion. Relationships are messy and they need work. They arent always going to be perfect, which is why neither ship is going to be better than the other. Does Aang and Katara have a happy marriage? Well, I can't say that they do because there isn't much to go on other than they have children. I'd like to think they have their ups and downs like most relationships do.

Would Zuko and Katara have a good relationship? Going off of their character I'd say they would balance each other out. It won't be toxic because they do fine when they are together in the show. They work well as a team and have each other's backs. So yeah, that is there in the show.

I'd also like to point out that Zuko and Mai don't tick the boxes for outstanding relationship. Those two have been on and off and I honestly don't think they will get back together. Kinda reminds me of the guy I was on and off with for five years... now that was toxic.

But yeah. I've done the shipping thing for so long it doesn't matter if it's Canon or not. Like I seriously shipped Sesshomaru and Kagome for years even though I knew she and Inuyasha were going to be together. Didn't care too much for Sess/Rin because again... eew. You ship who you want and what you feel makes sense. Does this mean people have to berate others about it? No. There should never be any condescension or degrading because we are all fans.

But for real... I think Azula and Sokka should get together. And I'm not on the Taang ship either.

Fight me... I dare you.

[lanitalay]

Before I Say Goodnight Chapter 14

A/n: I hope you all enjoy this one!!!!!!! I feel like I could end it in one chapter or in 10 :')

Warnings: canon typical mentions/depictions of injuries, mentions of a toxic relationship.

Word count: 2.6k

Other chapters

Steady steps fill the air as Eris walks down the main hall of the House of Wind. He had not expected to be welcomed here in light of recent events. 

“How is she?” He asks the shadowsinger posted outside a door, presumably hers.

“Stable” 

“Is she awake?” The spymaster shakes his head “Sometimes, never for long”. Eris purses his lips at that, those last few moments in the clearing flashing in his mind “can I see her?” Azriel nods once and opens the door behind him. Eris is certain that he will remain on the other side of the door and that his shadows will be watching closely. 

His breath catches in his throat when he sees her. In truth, he did not know what to expect. It had been days since that night and she had been given Feyre’s blood and a mix of power granted by two high lords, one high lady and one cauldron made fae. It was not something that had been documented before. He was relieved when she had opened her eyes in the clearing, but the white light that shot out of them had surprised him. She had been drained of her blood, kept in a dungeon for weeks, mauled by an ancient monster and struck by lightning. If he had to guess, she had done something to offend the Mother or another god. How does one come back from that? 

The dark circles under her eyes had softened. He noticed the new points of her ears poking out of her hair that laid strewn across soft looking pillows. The lightning had left her with scars that peaked out of her shirt and went to the base of her neck. The bolt forever reflected on her once porcelain skin. He couldn’t see her leg but was relieved to see two outlines beneath the sheets. From what he had seen, it would not have been surprising that a healer would have recommended amputation. Her cheeks looked fuller, that was a good sign. 

He stood there for a while, as she slept. There was so much guilt eating away at him for all of the things he had done during his father’s reign. Unspeakable and unforgivable things. He had tried to do some good, when he could guarantee that his father’s wrath would not be turned to him. He was brought out of his thoughts when she stirred. 

“You can’t be serious” she grumbles and Eris tenses “we are going to have to discuss boundaries”. Her eyes are open and she seems… fine. No pain, no grogginess, no anger. “What?” She yawns “everytime I open my eyes you're there, you were always at the Manor, in the dungeons and now my room? I think we need to talk about getting friends your own age”. Eris stays looking at her and she rolls her eyes “not you too”. He repeats himself “what?”. “I need normal conversation, everyone has been acting like I’m going to break if they look at me wrong and I hate it” he relaxes his stance but remains uncertain “you got demolished by three separate entities, you should be dead, forgive me if I am not in the mood to banter”. She goes to sit up but winces and lays back down “no”. Eris crosses his arms at his chest “no, what?” She throws a pillow at him “I won't forgive you not wanting to banter” he catches the pillow “I did not realize you were enthralled by my humor” he walks closer to her bed and places the pillow where it had been “are you aware of the watchdog at the door?” She scowls “don’t call him that. But yes” and yells “it’s a waste of your time Azriel, I’m fine!” 

A hint of a smile escapes Eris “you are the worst patient I’ve ever seen”. Now, she looks seriously pissed off “you try being bedridden for a week and see how you like it”. “You’ve been bed ridden?” She nods and grimaces “after everything went down the magic healed all my wounds but my leg was broken in so many different places and it healed all wrong. Madja has had to re-break and properly set the bones. They have not let me leave the bed”. A shiver runs down Eris’ back and just how brutal the attack had been. Any lighthearted energy having been sucked out of the room. “I wanted to apologize” she looks away from him and starts to pick at a loose string in the bedsheets and interrupts him “don’t”. He goes on “I have to, it was my father who got you into this whole mess and I could have done so much more to prevent it or to get you out sooner. I should have killed him years ago but I never had the courage and-” she held up her hand “Eris, please don’t”. He took a step closer “and I’m sorry you got hurt and tortured and I just stood by” she would not look at him but asked “did you notice that the bargain marks vanished?” He nodded. She took a breath and said “you kept your promise. I’m out. You never owed me any kindness. We were never even friends” that stung. “You deserved better” she made knots to the string she was fidgeting with “I hate when people talk like that, you can’t change what happened or what you did or didn’t do”. He took one more step “I think it's fair to lament what happened” she looked up and met his gaze “I think it's useless”. He could have flinched at the venom in her voice, but stood still when clouds and bolts of silver amassed in her eyes. She closed her eyes, breathed deep and said “let’s talk about something else” when she opened her eyes again, the storm was gone. Before he could think of what to say the door opened and Madja walked in, followed by Azriel. 

“Good morning y/n, how are you feeling?” The healer asked while opening up her bag of bandages and tonics. “I’m fine, the leg is a little sore” Madja hummed and said “well we have the last procedure today. If all goes well you’ll be able to walk around in a few days”. Y/n smiled at the news “really?” Madja nodded “alright, I will need any visitors to say their goodbyes now” she searched through her bag for something and Eris took his cue to leave. But before he did said “I will be back in a few days”. 

Azriel stood at the door throughout every procedure. His stomach churning every time he heard crunching or snapping coming from inside. She had been put to sleep again. Madja was done in less than an hour. 

He waited by her bedside until she woke up. After the procedures she would wake up in pain and he would be there to give her the tonic Madja had prepared. “That never gets easier to get down” she gagged at the foul taste of the concoction. “I know, it does not taste good”. He remembers all of the times he’s been hurt and forced to drink it. “You’re done though, Madja said everything went perfect. You can try to walk tomorrow” she let out a sigh “thank God”. Azriel chuckled “here, Elain made you soup” and helped you sit up so you could eat. 

“So what are you going to do?” Nesta asked, interrupting a very interesting scene in the book you were reading. She was keeping you company while Azriel was at a meeting in the River House.  “About?” She closed her book. Oh lord. “About Azriel and Eris”. You frown “I’m still lost” she leaned closer “are you going to choose?” Now you scowled “I don’t know why I would choose between two friends” Nesta rolled her eyes. “Don’t be coy, y/n” you cross your arms, defensive “I am not being coy, I am not thinking of my love life at all”. Now, she leans back and says nonchalantly “Gwyn has been dying to ask Azriel out”. Your eyes widen and you curse at how those words irked you just how Nesta wanted them to. “Gwyn does not want to go out with Az” Nesta raised a sharp brow “she used to, but since you came into the picture she’s lost interest”. You huff “what’s that supposed to mean?”

“It means that Azriel only has eyes for one person but that person seems to be undecided” 

“Why do I have to make a choice now?” 

“You don’t have to, I was just curious”.

“I barely know either of them”.

“You know them well enough to know how you feel” 

“It’s not that simple” your voice quivers and Nesta’s expression softens.

“It seems simple to me”

“It’s not. I hate talking about it but I used to be engaged to a man, back in my world. He was not kind to me. But I stayed far longer than I should have because everyone in my life kept telling me that I had to, that I should. I also had a complicated relationship with my mother. She was very… controlling”. You got lost as you remembered how she would manipulate you “Anyway, it feels that all my life I have never made a choice for myself. The only true choices I have made was leaving him, traveling and then working at the apothecary. Everything else was either orchestrated by my mother or predetermined by fate. The portal being open, Lucien finding me, meeting Azriel, meeting Eris and now I am not even human anymore”. A wave of pain floods your chest at the reminder of your stolen mortality. “I just… as much as I might like Azriel I need to heal, in more ways than one”. 

Nesta nodded “I’m sorry for everything. I understand feeling like things just happen to you without you having a say in the matter” the way her eyes darkened you knew she had also gone through something similar. You could recall from what Mor had told you that she had been made against her will and that she had a… destructive way of dealing with the trauma. “I love Cassian, he’s my mate but a part of me will always wonder about the mortal life I could have had or what I would have done if they had not locked me in this house. So I’m sorry for prying and pressuring you. I should have known better” tears are gathering in your eyes. She gets out of her chair, sits in front of you on the bed and pulls you into a hug. “I don’t know what to do,” you say, voice quiet. “Just focus on healing”. 

The following day was better, you could finally stand and walk around. 

The day after that was great, Madja said you could resume your usual activities as long as you did not put too much stress on the leg. 

The following week she gave you the all clear that everything was perfect. Azriel was with you  every day. Eris came to visit and was relieved to see you in better spirits and mobile again. Lucien had brought you gifts that Muriel, Jurian and Vassa had sent along. He told you that Muriel thought you had been sick all along and she had sent so many tonics and salves in hopes that you'd get better.Your heart warmed. It broke a little, too. Going back to the Human Lands was not an option now and that stung. 

You were at the River House for a visit when Feyre asked you what you wanted to do now. “I have no idea, but I need to get out of the House of Wind”. Feyre furrowed her brows “why? Did something happen?” You shake your head “no, no, it's just that I feel bad asking to be winnowed or flown all the time and during the day nobody is really in the house and it gets lonely”. She thinks for a moment “you could stay at the town house if you want”. You raise a brow “town house?” She nods “we used to live there but the family grew so much we needed a bigger place. I don’t think anybody is using it now… so you could move there if you like”. That sounded perfect “yes, I would love that”. Feyre smiled “that’s perfect! You’d be so close you could walk here”. 

“How will I ever repay you?” It was a sincere question, they had been keeping you alive since Lucien found you and you had no money for rent or anything. “You don’t owe us anything, you’re part of our family now” you hated how that scared you. “Seriously Feyre, is there a job I could do or something?” She shook her head “Nope, you will move to the town house and continue to heal. I think you could train with an apothecary here or even with Madja if you’re interested”. She went on to list every apothecary in town and how they would never say no if the High Lady asked them for a favor. 

A knock startled you “come in”. “How was your day?” Azriel asks and closes the door behind him. He stays in place as he sees that you are packing up your clothes into boxes. “What are you doing” you look up at him “I was at the River House today and Feyre said I could move into the town house”. 

“Oh”

“I was just telling her how it gets lonely here when all of you are gone and how I’d be more comfortable in Velaris rather than above it” 

“When are you leaving?” 

“Tomorrow” 

He didn’t reveal any emotion but you knew he was hurt. “She said there are several rooms… you could come with me, if you want” he shifted his stance, hands behind his back, wings tight. “Do you want me to go with you?” You reply “I don’t really want to live alone” he shakes his head. “Do you want me to go with you?” Yes, you wanted to scream. You wanted to shout and hug him and apologize for not asking him first and that he found out like this. You wanted to kiss away his frown until he was smiling. But you stood there not saying anything. 

“Y/n”

“Yes” you step closer to him “I want you to come with me” you falter. Heart beating faster, hating the vulnerability. His hands come to his sides “are you sure?” You mentally curse him “yes, I’m sure”. You are standing a foot away from him. So close you can see a glimmer of something in his eye when you finish talking. “But I have to be honest with you” the glimmer disappears “Az, I…” A lump forms in your throat and you can’t get the words out. “I like you, ok? I like you a lot and I think you like me too but-” 

He cuts you off  “I do” 

The lump gets bigger “but I can’t promise you anything other than friendship right now… I hope you can understand that” 

He steps closer and your breath falters. He is so close. You want to reach up and just touch him. He grabs your hands and says “I’d wait any amount of time for you. You have my friendship, always”. His gentleness overwhelms you and tears well up. You groan “I feel like I’m always crying” he smiles and wipes away a few stray drops. You inhale “so you’ll come with me?” He nods and you want nothing more than to wrap your arms around him and kiss him. 

Azriel laid in his bed feeling lighter than he had in years. She likes me. 

Her words were a breath of fresh air, a cool summer breeze, a shimmering night sky. She likes me. 

He could not stop replaying the moment. She likes me. 

That night, he prayed that the fullness in his chest was something more than infatuation.

taglist: @luvmoo @leeknows-wife @nocasdatsgay @mybestfriendmademe

[tumblingxelian]

Oneshot Concept - The Chloe & Adrien - Childhood Friends Special

I wish there'd been a comedy episode centered on Adrien & Chloe's friendship & seeing other facets of them and the relationship.

It opens with Adrien being super drowsy at school as he had to wake up extremely early to finish a report because he won't be able to work on it over the weekend due to his jammed schedule.

He is barely keeping his head up & the others think its ridiculous, including a grouchy Chloe who storms up and promises to "Deal with this nonsense."

While the others fret over Adrien and muse ideas, one can see Chloe talking animatedly in the background, at times seemingly threatening her phone before suddenly shifting into pure professionalism and strutting back over.

Adrien has the weekend off, but cannot go out on Saturday because if he is sooo tired, he must need to stay home.

Adrien's only question is if he can sleep in to which she says yes and gets a drowsy thank you. Chloe adds she'll swing by after ten so Gabriel can't pull a fast one on them which receives a thumbs up as Adrien's head rests on his arms and she leaves.

Alya muses on how spending a day with Chloe is probably more tiring, Marinette is shifting into panic mode & Nino notes Adrien's already fallen asleep.

More under the cut:

At night, Marinette is seen sort of shaking off Tikki's advice that there are facets to even people one reasonably dislikes that you may not know & that presumably someone as nice as Adrien has some reason for sticking out his friendship with Chloe, but it largely falls on deaf ears.

The next day, Alya struts into her families store to 'steal her' because she & Nino figured she'd be stressing & needs time to relax with ice cream. Marinette muses on how Adrien & Chloe are probably dining on lobster and grapes & other fancy things on a super romantic date.

Cut to the Agreste manor & after Chloe enters his room Chloe reveals her purse is full of chocolate bars and other such things with both chanting "Hide the snacks, hide the snacks" with Plagg in the background doing the same as they begin racing around the room hiding snacks. Adrien revealing he's made new secret compartments, again Plagg in the background looking smug, & Chloe wondering where the wealthy would be without such things.

"Probably jail" says Adrien, Chloe agrees & they laugh.

On the way to ice cream, Alya shares what is meant to be an exaggerated jokey idea of what she thinks Adrien's day will be like, namely doing Chloe's make up and acting like her butler, shown in a comedic animation. Then it cuts to the actual scene of Chloe asking Adrien how he feels, revealing he has no had his face painted in elaborate, beastly fashion and he smirks like Chat Noir, "I feel ferocious, roar!"

Finally at the ice cream parlor, Nino has arrived and joins in on the speculation, though his is mildly more forgiving, suggesting Chloe is just incompetent at being a child cos she always tries to act grown up. With him thinking she'll want to watch an opera but not understand it or try a wine tasting with grape juice.

We cut to the manor zooming away from a film called "The Hyena Queen" to Chloe, also face painted, dangling off the rock climbing wall with a malevolent Adrien murmuring, "Long live the queen" before knocking her of the wall and she falls dramatically to the cushions below. Then he remembers how sad the next scene is & Chloe's frantically running for the remote, "I'll skip it, I'll skip it!"

Marinette counters that she thinks Chloe is probably going to use this time to brainwash Adrien and turn him against them.

Cut to them playing foosball & Adrien noting he wishes Chloe would be nicer to their classmates, or at least his friends. She counters, she almost but doesn't wish he were more ruthless & unforgiving, cos he wouldn't be Adrien if he were like her.

Things hang in awkward silence before their game picks up again.

Alya & Nino find it unrealistic, if only cos they doubt Adrien would listen & Marinette agrees and offers to get them some drinks still stressed but calming down. But she's cornered by a fan of Adrien's who asks if all the horrible things they said about the girl were accurate & Marinette goes on a bit of a ramble about her issues with Chloe before calming down and noting she may be exaggerating and feels better to get it off her chest.

Unfortunately, the fan is no longer listening and is holding an Adrien figurine as a butterfly emerges on her face & she swears, "My dear Adrien, I won't let that horrible girl torment you a moment longer!"

Cut back to Chloe strutting back into the room & dusting off her hands. Adrien asking how it went, as he could hear shouting from the other side of the house. Chloe waves him off, claiming to know how to talk to his father. Adrien wishes he could do the same, but also that it didn't necessitate arguments and asks what the damage is.

Chloe waves him off, reiterating its for the best he's not like his heartless father. Adrien counters, asking if she really wants to discuss heartless parents. She does a 180 and in a very tight, forced voice says, "I take it back Adrien, he's not heartless, and I am sure he will soon sell the company, let you retire from modelling and move you both into a townhouse… thing, and start coaching a soccer team to spend time with you!"

She adds an unconvincing smile that has Adrien cackling.

Meanwhile we cut back to Marinette fighting "Fan Queen" & talking herself out of using it as a chance to see Adrien, but she takes long enough that the Akuma does start approaching the house

"My darling Adrien, I am here to save you!"

Chloe & Adrien are enraptured in a very intense game of "Who can balance more stupid stuff on their head" Chloe is currently winning due to ballet & gymnastics training, but notes Adrien is doing better than he ever has before. He muses he must have been a cat in his last life.

Then Fan Queen kicks in the window and stops dead in her tracks as the pair stare at her, but also refuse to break their contest; its mostly Chloe.

Fan Queen is confused, Ladybug is confused, Adrien & Chloe fall over when she arrives and start trying to look cool and or getting fannish with her, but they keep stumbling over each others lines and poses getting increasingly embarrassed as they start squabbling over it.

Fan Queen just mutters, "Oh you're actually just a dork aren't you Adrien?" which just sort of nets an awkward shrug as Chloe makes some snippy comments about falling for magazine covers.

Just as Fan Queen seems to be getting upset, Ladybug snags the Akumatized item and the fight is over in short order, with her leaving the now very confused Akuma victim to the effuse praise of the pair.

After leaving she muses on what the heck she stumbled into there & if maybe Tikki was right.

Cut back & Chloe is asking Adrien if he's OK as that was his 'first' Akuma attack where he was the target. He waves it off, saying it was scary, but he figured as she wasn't scared he didn't need to be.

There's a brief moment where we see a sort of high speed flashback to several times Akuma have tried to kill her, but just as Adrien starts looking worried she forces a smirk and proclaims, of course she wasn't afraid, she is Chloe, and Ladybug adored her, so nothing bad could ever happen to her.

She's fine, really, pinky promise.

At night Marinette muses that maybe Tikki was right & that there's sides to people that can be unexpected, such as a cool charming guy getting flustered, or a normally mean person showing they can be a good friend.

As Tikki begins to narrate about how people often wear masks to be liked or get by in a difficult situation, we see Adrien waving Chloe off from his window, as the narration continues, talking about trust and the unique ways people can be there for each other as we see Adrien's dinner & then cut to him eating a chocolate bar.

She continues, that for other people they may not wear a mask to be liked but instead fiercer and more dangerous than they are, & we see Chloe moving through the hotel, eying everyone suspiciously even as she looks confident, members of the press obviously spying on her.

Before finally capping off on a moral about how even Marinette wears such masks, with how she is so easily able to express her worries and fears as herself, but as Ladybug she stays cool, calm and collected, which Marinette agrees with, adding a literal mask makes it easier to be who she wants to be.

The screen is divided into three, showing Adrien sneaking out as Chat, Marinette not wearing a mask, but very clearly carrying herself like Ladybug and a shot of Chloe putting on her Ladybug mask and looking wistful.

[wandafiction]

Hela's Kitchen - Just Us Chapter 24

Warnings: None

Word Count: 3507

Series List | Chapter 23 | Chapter 25

================================

So it's now Saturday, yes it's been a week since girls night. For the most part my week has been made up of going to Wanda's or her coming to mine after work, as both our work schedules were a lot lighter than the week before. It's been nice to be able to have meals every night with someone, sharing the bed with them and then waking up to kisses all over my face. Which, I now realise, is something Wanda loves to do and it makes me smile every time I open my eyes to her gorgeous, shiny green eyes and that toothy grin. 

I feel like I'm ready for the next step, crazy. I know we have known each other for just over 2 weeks but...I don't know. There is just something about her that pulls me in, she has been worming her way into my life since day one and even though we are still getting to know one another I want to give this thing a chance. Like a real chance. I just hope Wanda feels the same.

"Dorogoy, you okay over there? I can practically see the steam leaving your ears at how hard you're thinking?" Wanda brings her hand to rest on top of mine as we both drink our coffee and eat our pastries. We decided to come back to Second Asgard, as it's a beautiful day out and we wanted to explore New York a little together. I'm thinking of taking us to Brooklyn Bridge and then maybe the park next to it, for a beautiful evening. I am going to take her to a nice restaurant where the prices are a little steep but not ridiculous. I think I'm ready to be more than what we are at the moment, but I am going to wait for her to make that move. I don't want to rush her or make her uncomfortable, I am completely willing to go at her speed. Her pace.

"Sorry, just lost in thought about what else we could do today. What would you say if I drove us to Brooklyn and we did some sightseeing and enjoyed an evening stroll in the park?" 

"I would say let's go!" I laugh out as she finished off her coffee, quickly wrapping her pastry in a napkin so she can eat it in the car on the way there.

"You go get in the car, I will pay for this and before you argue you paid last time." I give her a pointed look and she shrugs her shoulders as she stands from her chair.

"Wasn't going to argue anyway." She cheekily replies before kissing my cheek and making her way to the car.

"She looks happy." I turn my head to see the blonde man smiling up at me. "You're good for her y/n, as she is good for you. But don't hurt her."

"I won't Thor, not on purpose. But I've I do hurt her I will pass you the gun." 

"That's what I like to hear. Now don't keep a lady waiting." I smile at him as I give him cash for the food. As he is handing me change his brother walks in.

"My brother is right darling. I haven't seen her this happy in a very long time, the same goes for you. While we have you alone I just want to apologise for my actions all those years ago. I should have never blamed you, it wasn't your fault in any way shape or form. I just had so much anger in me when I heard the news and to see you laying in that hospital bed alive. I should have never said what I said." I swallow the lump in my throat. I don't think I've ever heard Loki apologise and definitely not this sincerely. 

"Did Thor tell you off after last week?" I let out a small laugh, as does Loki 

"Maybe. But I mean it, my words are unforgivable."

"Thank you Loki. It means a lot to hear you say it and as for forgiveness you are forgiven because even though your words killed me I've come to terms with what you said and know they were wrong. As for our friendship you're going to have to earn that back, but I'm really looking forward to having you in my life again." 

"Can I hug you?" Loki asks timidly. I give him a soft smile and silently make my way over to him wrapping my arms around his shoulders bringing his body closer to mine. His arms wrap around my torso and I feel him grip onto the back of my shirt like his life depends on it. I feel his shoulders shudder slightly and I know that he is crying.

"You're okay. I'm okay. We are going to be okay." He nods against my shoulder, as I feel the tears start to soak through my shirt. "We are going to be okay. You hear me? I can't lose you again." 

"You won't. I promise I will do better." He takes his head off my shoulder as he looks up at me, me standing just a few inches taller. I lean my forehead against him, it's something we have done since we first met. It just lets the other person know we are with them and that it's going to be okay. 

"I know. Now as Thor said I can't keep the lady waiting. She is probably watching this through the window think 'what the fuck is going on'." Loki moves to look around me.

"Oh yeah, I'm getting the death glare." We all laugh out loud as I turn to see Wanda's face soften when she sees mine, I know that I've got a few tears running down my face. I wipe them away as I smile back at her. 

"I will see you boys next week." 

"Starting your weekly tradition of coffee and a muffin again." I nod and give Loki a goodbye kiss on the cheek and Thor wraps me into a crushing hug.

I escape from Thors grasp and make my way out of the café. I shake my body off as I walk out the door trying to stop the small tremors that have started in my hand from the many emotions I'm feeling. I take a deep breath in before slowly releasing , making my way to the car where Wanda has made her way out of and is standing on the sidewalk next to the car. She opens up her arms and I practically fall into a hug with her, my arms wrapping around her waist as I squeeze her tightly. I bend my body slightly so she can rest her chin on my shoulder and stand back up. She squeals as her legs sway in the air, now no longer on the floor.

"Y/n! Put me down." She squeals as I spin her around once and gently place her back down on the ground. Wanda removes herself from the embrace, her hands moving to cup my cheeks as she looks up at me, the sun lighting up her face perfectly. "You okay dorogoy? You had quite the moment with Loki back there."

I quirk my eyebrow at the jealousy I hear in her voice. "It's not what you think it may be Wanda. He is more like an uncle to me than anything else, and he apologised for something he did in the past. So yes I am okay. Actually never better. So Brooklyn?" 

"Brooklyn!" Wanda repeats excitedly as she pulls my face down to kiss me, taking her time giving my bottom lip attention before playfully biting it. We jump back from one another when we hear a loud knocking next to us, looking to see Loki behind the glass window of the café with an unimpressed look.

"Stop eating your girlfriends face in the middle of the sidewalk it's disgusting how happy you look." His muffled voice vibrates through the glass as he fake gags at the sight of us, but neither of us pointing out that we aren't girlfriends. When I realise Wanda didn't say anything, I look to her to see her looking at me with something I can't quite decipher and I nearly ask her out right then and there. But I have a plan, and I can't spoil it with my blabbermouth. I have to wait for her.

"Right, let's go." 

I open the passenger door for Wanda, making sure she is comfortable and buckled in before I make my way to my side. As I turn the keys starting the ignition checking my mirrors so I can pull away safely, I see Wanda place her hand on the dashboard of the car as I rev it. She loves this car, and I love that she loves this car.

We are sitting in the car enjoying one of the many radio stations, as we drive with the windows down our hair dancing in the wind. I have one hand on the steering wheel, the other resting on the frames of the door moving it up and down in the wind. I see Wanda shuffle to face me more as she rests her elbow on her door resting her face in her open palm.

"'Can I ask you something?" Her voice breaks the comfortable silence we had going.

"Anything." 

"What did Loki apologise for? I mean I've never seen that man cry and whatever he was saying made him emotional enough to cry." Wanda asks cautiously, not sure what my reaction may be. I take a minute to think about my answer but ultimately decide to tell her, it's about time I open about this time of my life.

"A few years ago, someone he was close with. Not in that way, but in a family member but not by blood way. Well they were killed in an incident that I was also involved in. They ended up dying while I survived, not that I was in good condition, but when I woke up in hospital the first thing Loki did was blame me. We had so many fights and I officially kicked him out of my life. Long story short he came crawling back with apology after apology and I think only recently have I been able to forgive him and accept his apology." 

We sat in silence for a few minutes as Wanda took in this information, I allowed her to take it in. It's a lot, and even though that's not even close to the whole story, hopefully it's enough for her to understand enough for her to know that I am willing to open up and tell her everything but it's going to take time. 

"How do you feel now?" I furrow my brows as I take a quick glance at Wanda before returning my eyes to the road.

"What do you mean?" 

"Well it sounds like you went through something really traumatic and then got blamed for that trauma. But now you have forgiven the man that placed the blame, I'm assuming all is not forgotten and he is going to have to earn is family title back, but how does it make you feel knowing you want him back in your life?" 

"Sometimes I forget you're 11 years older than me and then you come out with these wise words and the right questions. You know what to say when to say it and when to push and when not to push. It's impressive how you do it."

"Thank you, but answer the question." She knows to push and when not too and now is a time I definitely need a push.

"I feel lighter. Like I can let go of the hatred I had against myself because for the longest time I believed his words to be true, but I don't. Not anymore and I think that's how I am able to forgive him." I move my hand from the window to the steering wheel so I can grab onto Wanda's hand, bringing to my lips to kiss her knuckles. "Thank you for pushing."

"Thank you for trusting me with it." 

"Well I trust you Wanda."

"I trust you too y/n." 

"I do have one question though." 

"Shoot."

"Do you want me to meet your boys at all?" I hear Wanda hum in thought.

"I would like you too. I mean they come back to mine tomorrow and we are planning a friends and family cook out for next Friday. It would be really nice if you could come, just to meet them but I don't want to force you to do anything you're not ready for."

"I would really like to meet your boys, just give me the time I should show up, if I need to bring anything and I will be there." I lean over to kiss her on the cheek as we come to a stop at a red light. "We are nearly here by the way."

Wanda turns to look at her open window, her eyes searching her surroundings, taking in the bridge and park in the distance. I have booked a meal first, before we go for our walk and just spend time with each other.

"Where are we heading the bridge is the other way?" 

"Well I thought I would treat you to a beautiful meal first."

"Y/n." Wanda groans slightly, I know she hates the idea of me spending money on her.

"Wanda." I match her tone. "I know you don't like people spending money on you or for you, but I like to so you have no choice in the matter. If you really dislike the idea of me paying for all the food and drinks, don't, because there is no reason for you to. This is my treat." 

"I. I. Thank you." She breathes out slightly defeated. 

"If you really hate the idea of me paying for the whole thing I have no issue of you putting money towards it, I mean we can go Dutch if you really want to. I just thought I would treat you." I shrug, I get why she dislikes the idea of someone spending money on her.

"No, wait, no I mean thank you. This is really sweet. I like that you're treating me, I'm just going to have to get used to someone spending money on me again because since me and vision divorced I've always spent my own money on myself and the boys. Even before that vision didn't treat me much." 

"Well, unfortunately for you, you're going to have to get used to it because I like the idea of treating you. Spoiling you. Spending my money on you." 

"I like that idea but I want to spoil you as well." 

"I'm not going to say no to being spoiled to something once in a while. My favourite ice cream is caramel, my favourite drink is anything caramel flavoured. My favourite café is New Asgard and my favourite place to be is either on the beach or on the hills. Oh and I love sunset or sunrise." 

"Good to know. I will start planning my own little treats for you."

"I can't wait, princess. Whatever you do I will enjoy and cherish it." 

"So where are we going?" 

"Have you ever heard of Hela's kitchen?" I ask turning into the parking lot for the 5 star restaurant. 

"Yeah, Thor and Loki mention it every now and again. It's their older sister's restaurant right?" 

"It is." 

"I have another question."

"Go for it."

"Do you know everyone in New York?" I laugh out as I climb out the car making my way to Wanda's door holding it open for her as I give her my hand to hoist her out. 

"No I don't. I just know people who know people. I mean I didn't know your friends or those three men who were at the club. But I get what you are saying. It is a little creepy that we both know the same people yet have never met each other"

"Right! It's crazy to think we could have seen each other in passing but only now are we really seeing each other." 

"Well I see you Wanda."

"I see you too Y/n." Wanda takes a hold of my hand as we calmly walk to the front of the line. "I'm assuming because you know the owner you can just sort of skip the hour wait?"

"You assume correctly." I nod to the waiter who has worked here since I started coming, so he hands me two menus as I walk past and go to my regular chair which has a reserved sign on it. 

I pull out Wanda's chair for her as she takes her red leather jacket off, and I grab it, placing it on the back of her chair as she gets comfortable. I tuck her chair in for her, passing her one of the menus and make my way to my chair. I already know what I'm going to get and what drink I would like, but I have enough patience to wait for Wanda's decision. 

"Is there anything you would suggest?" Wanda peaks up over her menu seeing mine laying on the table discarded.

"I am going to have the sirloin steak, medium rare as they cook it perfectly here. I get chunky chips and peas as well. It's just what I need."

"Well that sounds delicious so I will have what you are having, and for a drink I will just have a cheap glass of red." I smile and nod at Wanda as I see Hela appear from her office making her way over.

"Y/n! Honey, it's been a minute."

"Well it took you long enough to make an appearance I was going to call a waiter over." I laugh out loud.

"How fucking rude of you! I will let you know I wasn't aware you were coming here tonight."

"Well you better train your staff better." I jest. Hela juts her chin at my words, but I know she knows I mean no harm. "Anway Hela this is Wanda, Wanda Hela. Wanda is a friend of Thor and Loki's and Hela is their sister."

"It is lovely to finally meet you, Hela. I have heard a lot about you from your brothers." 

"All good things I hope?" Hela holds out her hand which Wanda takes as they shake hands introducing themselves to one another.

"Of course." 

"Wanda that name rings a bell. Your the Sokovian with two twin boys right?" Wanda nods her head letting out a small yeah. "So are you two together yet?"

Me and Wanda both go wide eyed and stare between one another and then back at the Hela. Hela raises her eyebrows at us as we both recover from the question.

"I take that as a no?" Me and Wanda both nod our head at her question. "Well that's a shame, you guys make a cute couple."

"We've only known each other for like two weeks." I say more to myself than Hela because I feel like I'm ready for the next step but don't want to rush Wanda.

"Well you're stupid for not already asking Wanda out. She deserves better from you." Hela hits the back of my head earning a scowl from me and a laugh from Wanda. "Oh and Wanda your stupid too for not locking it down sooner." That shuts Wanda up.

"As y/n said we have only known each other for 2 weeks, and a day technically."

"Well you are both stupid because there is no timeline on these things." She mutters another stupid under her breath before smiling at us. "Anyway Y/n are you having your normal."

"Of course."

"And for you Wanda?"

"I will be having the same." Wanda places her menu on mine, handing it over to Hela.

"So two sirloin steaks, medium rare, with our cheapest red?" Hela double checks our order.

"Yes please Hela."

"No problem, someone will be back with your drinks and I will bring your food over when it's ready." With that Hela turns on her heels heading towards the bar to put our order in the system. 

"She is very to the point." Wanda voices her observations.

"She is, but it's one of the good things about her. She says it as it is."

"So what are we doing after our meal? Any more surprises?" Wanda sucks in her cheeks slightly poking her tongue into her left one as she stares at me, a small smirk grows on her face as she sees my eyes drop to her actions. Well holy shit, now that was hot! She has to know what she is doing.

"No nothing but the walk in the park to have an explore and look at the bridge." 

"Perfect. I can't wait." 

================================

[linagram]

[ 𝚊𝚔𝚒𝚘 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚊𝚒𝚖𝚒'𝚜 𝚝𝟹 𝚒𝚗𝚝𝚎𝚛𝚛𝚘𝚐𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗 ]

the first interrogation of this season WOOOOOO

Q.01. "What is your favorite memory of your accomplice?"

Akio: Going to a bookstore together. We were interested in completely different sections though.

Aimi: Drawing our dogs together.

Q.02. "How long do you want your life to be?"

Akio: I don't think my life will be that long anyway considering my injury.

Aimi: Hmm, I'm not good at answering such deep questions~

Q.03. "Tell us something about your childhood."

Akio: I don't remember it that well. Mom said I used to cry often when I was a kid.

Aimi: I always received a lot of birthday gifts. I still do, but for some reason it's not as exciting anymore ^^''

Q.04. "Who do you talk to these days?"

Akio: Riku and Guard 001's older brother, surprisingly. Asahi is not as bad as I thought he was.

Aimi: You, Miki-chan! 

Q.05. "What kind of person would your perfect friend be?"

Akio: Someone who would make me feel special.

Aimi: Someone who won't leave me, but also will respect my privacy. I don't want a friend who's too obsessed with me, haha~

Q.06. "Why do you think your accomplice participated in the crime?"

Akio: At first I thought he did it because he was just that loyal to me, but I'm not so sure anymore. Maybe he did it because he was already thinking of killing Chise and me hating him was the push he needed.

Aimi: Because he really wanted to protect me, I guess. 

Q.07. "Would you rather die alone or with someone else?"

Akio: Dying alone sounds pathetic.

Aimi: I'm okay with being executed as long as there will be someone else with me. 

Q.08. "Draw your victim."

Akio:

Aimi:

Q.09. "Would you want to keep in touch with other prisoners after you leave Milgram, if you're able to do so?"

Akio: Maybe with Riku. Aimi too, if she wants.

Aimi: Can I keep in touch with you instead, Miki-chan?

Q.10. "Is it unforgivable to look down on people?"

Akio: I thought it was a normal thing to do.

Aimi: Maybe it's okay to do if those people are really bad?

Q.11. "What was your first thought after you were done with your murder?"

Akio: "This must be a mistake".

Aimi: "I'm finally free".

Q.12. "Are you happy about your Trial 2 verdict?"

Akio: I'm just glad that I'm still alive.

Aimi: Of course! 

Q.13. "What would you want to say to your accomplice if you could see them again?"

Akio: I'd just ask him why he did what he did.

Aimi: My accomplice is dead, Miki-chan, and for a reason. Next question, please!

Q.14. "Any thoughts about your future?"

Akio: What's the point in making any plans if it's possible I'm going to die soon anyway?

Aimi: I don't know! I don't think about it that much.

Q.15. "What verdict do you think you'll get this time?"

Akio: Let me live. Please.

Aimi: You will forgive me. Like a good friend.

[qrevo]

So. Cat came out, I feel like Kazui ALSO wants to come out, and I need to talk about it.

(Spoilers for Cat) (Also TW: suicide mention)

First off, the style of the MV was great! Kazui going full crazy at the end was so cool. The song was a banger (as always). Now that we know he was a cop, some of his actions inside the prison make sense, like protecting the attacked prisoners, and trying to punch Es in the first trial.

My main guess now, going by enerything we have (MVs, VDs, Timelines) is that Kazui is a closeted gay man (or maybe aro/ace), and never had any real love or attraction towards his wife, only platonically at most. On the VD he says "I can't live unless I lie. That's how I was born...", and seeing as Japan has some big problems with homophobia, this really strikes off as him trying to hide this side of himself so that he can live a peaceful, "normal" life.

In that one timeline with Yuno and Mahiru, they asked about his preferences, and then after he answered Yuno said that was total bullshit. What other reason would he have to lie about his relationship preferences?

Also, "Cat", or "Neko", is a slang used by gay people in Japan to refer to bottoms or submissive gays.

The white dove represents his marriage, since he transformed his marriage ring into the dove (right before doing an "I Love You" reference). That scene of him eating the bird can be interpreted as him finally telling the truth to his wife, who he really is, and suggesting a break or a divorce, ruining/destroying their marriage.

By what he said in the VD, Kazui didn't cheat, or at least it didn't reach that point. He also said that we didn't find out his true crime/sin, since our base assumption was cheating. He also said that she died when he stopped lying. Of course, these could be more of his lies, but assuming they aren't. The only thing that I can think of, that would make her so desperate to jump off the balcony, is that his love never existed in the first place.

So what happened, in summary, was: He married his partner in the police, Hinako, to try having a normal life and conform to society. The marriage was a lie to him, but it was real for his wife. He tried to repress that side of him, hoping it would go away, but those feelings he repressed only got stronger, until he realized he couldn't keep lying forever, and decided to ask for a divorce, coming out to his wife, before he reched the point of cheating. His wife got upset, as seeing that their relationship was a lie, that he never truly loved her like she loved him, and jumped off the balcony.

But there are still a lot of questions that weren't answered.

If he didn't cheat, WHO IS BAR GIRL?? Is she important? If she is, why didn't she appear in the new MV? Is she even REAL, or is she a fabricated memory, or an idea, or a metaphor??

Is that guy in the wedding really the bartender from half? If he is, that means he is important, somehow. Was he his childhood friend? Does Kazui have a crush on him? If so, in bar girl scene, was Kazui actually flirting with the bartender before she arrived? Is he the same man he was arguing with in that scene from half?

For now I'm planning to forgive him, but is that really the best choice? It appears that, when we forgave him in T1, nothing really happened, because we actually forgave his persona, the lies about himself, instead of his actual true self. If he wants us to expose his lies, maybe an unforgiving veredict would be what he wants?

But also, if he is unforgiven, he won't be able to help defend other prisoners from attacks. We need to be careful when voting, as Milgram is starting to look like a strategy game where the goal is keeping all of them alive.

Anyways, going to listen to Cat for like. 3 days straight. Or 3 days gay, if that fits the theme better.

[unshackled-if]

Okay so this is a BIT angst I hope you don't mind as I was wondering that if the RO's were to confess to mc and mc says like "Really? I'm sorry it's just that...it's hard to believe you I'm mean I'm not saying I don't love you it's just that...I'm afraid of you lying to me" how would the RO's react to that? And how would they convince mc they love them really?

Here we go! Angst time! Btw, this might be a bit long sorry, I got excited. 😈 Aurelian:

King Aurelian stood before you, his heart heavy with regret. He knew he had to be honest.

"I love you," he said, his voice shaking with emotion. "I know I've hurt you, but I swear to you, I'm being honest now. I love you with all my heart, and I would do anything to make things right between us." You looked at him with a mixture of anger and disbelief. "How can you say that?" you said, you voice laced with pain. "You took away everything from me, my freedom, my life. You left me alone in that dark cell for a century Aurelian. A century! And now you come here and say you love me?"

Aurelian felt a lump from his throat. He knew he didn't deserve your forgiveness, but he couldn't help hoping for it. "I know what I've done is unforgivable," his voice barely above a whisper. "But please, give me a chance to make it up to you. Let me show you how much I love you, and how deeply I regret what I've done."

You hesitated for a long time, your gaze locked with Aurelian's. You have never seen him this sincere, his eyes burning with plead for your forgiveness and regret. Tears streamed down your face, your heart is aching with pain. "You don't understand," you voice trembling. "I loved you, Aurelian. I trusted you with my life, and you threw it away like it was nothing. How can I ever trust you again?"

"I'm sorry," his voice filled with remorse. "I know saying this won't take away your pain, but I'm so sorry for what I've done. Please, give me a chance to make it up to you. I'll do anything, anything at all, to make things right between us."

You looked at him for a very long time, finally you gave a small node. "Fine," your voice barely above a whisper. "But don't think this means I forgive you. I'll give you a chance to prove yourself, but I don't know if I can ever trust you again, Aurelian."

He stepped closer to you, his hand reaching out to touch your cheek, but he stopped mid air. "Thank you," his voice filled with hope. "I promise, I won't let you down again."

Elara:

Elara stood before you, her heart pounding with nervousness. She had rehearsed what she wanted to say, but now that she is facing you, her words seemed inadequate. "I...I Iove you," she stammered, her voice barely above a whisper. "Please believe me when I say that my feelings are genuine. I want to be with you, with all my heart."

You looked at her, your expression guarded. "I want to believe you," your voice shaky. "But I've been hurt before. I trusted someone so much, and he broke my trust into a million pieces. I don't know if I can go through that pain again."

Elara felt a ping of sympathy in her chest. She knew who you were talking about it. "I understand how you feel," her voice gentle. "But please, don't give up on love. It's scary to trust again, but sometimes the risk is worth it."

You looked at her for a long moment, your expression softening. "How do you know?" you voice filled with vulnerability. "How do you know that your love won't hurt me?"

Elara took a deep breath, summoning the courage to be honest. "I don't know," her voice raw. "Love is unpredictable, and it can be messy and painful. But it can also be beautiful. I can't promise you that I'll never hurt you, but I can promise you that I'll always be honest and true to my feelings."

You looked at her conflicted, "I want to believe you," you closed you eyes for a moment. "But I'm scared."

Elara took a step closer to you, signaling for a permission to hold your hands, you nodded. "I know," her voice filled with compassion. "But you don't have to be alone in your fear. I'm here for you, and I'll support you in whatever way you need. We can take things slow, and we can build trust between us, one step at a time."

"Thank you," your eyes shining in emotion. "It's nice to know that you're here for me."

Elara smiled at you, "I'll be here for you, always."

Kazuo:

Kazuo stood before you, his heart bounding with nervousness. He had never been good at expressing his emotions, but he knew he had to tell you how he felt.

"MC," he said, his voice shaking. "I have to tell you something. I...I love you."

You looked at him, your expression guarded. "I...how can I trust you?" your tone bitter and hurt. "I've been hurt before, Kazuo. I can't go through that again."

Kazuo closed his eyes, he knew that this is what you would say. He knew the pain you suffered all these years, he was there when it happened. But he also knew that you saved him, in more ways than one.

"MC..., you saved me. You saved me from a life of pain and loneliness. When I was lost and alone, you showed me kindness and compassion. You helped me find my way back to the light." His voice filled with emotions, tears started to fall from his eyes.

You looked at him, your expression softening, "How did I help you?" your voice filled with tenderness.

"You showed me there was still hope," he wiped his tears and covered his face with his hands. "You showed me there was still goodness in this chaotic world, that there was still people worth fighting for. You saved me, MC. You saved me from the darkness that had consumed for so long."

Tears started streaming down your face, "I had no idea," you voice shaky. "I'm sorry, Kazuo. I had no idea how much you were also hurting."

Kazuo moved closer, asking for you permission to hold you, you nodded. "It's okay. I want you know to know that, I'm here for you, to stand by your side, no matter what. I promise to love you with all my heart and protect you from any harm or pain. I'll do whatever it takes to keep you safe."

You leaned on him, "I trust you, Kazuo. I know you'll keep me safe."

Aiden/Ava:

A took a deep breath, their heart pounding as they prepare to confess their feelings. They knew you don't trust people easily anymore, but they couldn't keep these feelings bottled any longer or they would go crazy.

"I have something to tell you," they said softly, their eyes shining and locked onto yours. "I know this might sound like a joke, but...I've started to feel something more for you. Something deeper."

You looked at them, your expression guarded. "A,I...I don't know if I can do this," your voice filled with uncertainty. "I don't know if I can trust this much again."

A nodded trying to keep their emotions in check, " I understand that you've been hurt," their eyes filled with warmth. "But I want you to know that I would never do anything to hurt you. I care about you too much to ever do that."

You looked at them, your expression softening slightly. "I know you mean well, A."

A stepped closer to you, their eyes locked onto yours for permission, you nodded. "I know it's hard," they said softly. "But I want you to know that I love you. I wouldn't have said anything if I didn't mean it. I know it might take time for you to trust me, but I'm willing to wait. I'm willing to do whatever it takes to show you that you can trust me." they gave you the most pupped eyed look and you chuckled.

"I don't know what to say," you voice hesitated. "I never thought anyone could love me, after everything that happened. But...maybe I can learn to trust you. Maybe we can try."

A reached out and held your hands. "I would like that," a smile spreading across their face. "I would like nothing more than to try, to see where this takes us."

Me rn:

[gayuu-the-necromancer]

William Rex Chapter 13

｡⋆｡˚🦋˚｡⋆｡

William: "If you can't forgive me for my sins, then you can take your knife and kill me."

(Point my knife....at William.....?)

----FLASHBACK-----

William: "If you want to judge me for my sins, you can stab me with this knife."

William: "I accept your absolution with open arms."

----FLASHBACK ENDS----

The golden knife I received that night we met, suddenly feels heavy in my pocket.

As usual, William waited for my answer with a charming smile.

The question is 'Is his sin an unforgivable evil to me?'

Kate: "I..."

(He's right. Killing people is a sin and it's self-righteous. There is no justification for that)

(But I also don't want the 'butterfly' to take away people's dignity and trample on them in an absurd way)

(I cannot say that turning a blind eye to all of this, is justice)

I know how sinful it is to stand here, making excuses for my helplessness and.......to close my ears to the cries for help.

(William chose the sin of judging evil over the sin of standing by it. He continues to choose the same path, even now)

In the face of his determination, it seems evil to say 'There might have been another way.'

(William sins because he cannot allow his beloved freedom to be trampled on)

(For such a pure and arrogant desire of yours to carry on....)

(I should have been attracted by that strength)

(Why are my legs shaking....?)

Kate: "I won't do...that....."

I squeezed my voice to deny that I'm shaking.

William: *smiling*

Kate: "Because I----"

(I love you)

(You who go to great lengths to save those cowering in the dark, taking on the guilt of their sins and then laugh at the fact that you did it all for your own sake)

(You who listened to my heart and unleashed it freely...)

Kate: "!"

I wanted to tell him, but somehow I can't find my voice.

My breathing became labored and I felt dizzy.

Someone holds me from behind as I was about to fall.

William: "You're so kind."

William: " Sorry to ask you this, but can you carry her. I'll stain her hands with blood."

Elbert: ".............Yes.......understood."

In my fading consciousness, I hear Master Elbert's voice....

After that, I heard nothing more.

｡⋆｡˚🦋˚｡⋆｡

Roger: "You're fine. Probably hyperventilating or anemic due to extreme nervousness. Here are some iron pills, just in case."

Kate: "Thank you, Mr. Roger."

When I woke up, I was sleeping in my room at the Crown Castle.

As soon as I woke up, both Liam and Ellis, who were worried, took me to Mr. Roger.

Kate: "I'm sorry to make you guys worry. Also thank you Ellis and Liam, for caring for me."

Ellis: "As long as your happy, I'm happy too. .....El was the one who carried you out. When I saw you, I thought you were dead."

Liam: "Ahaha. If Will is with her then I'm sure she won't die. I thought you were hurt."

Liam: "I knew you were surprised to witness Will's execution.....I'm sorry I wasn't there to support you."

Kate: "Liam is not the one to apologize! I just wasn't ready."

Ellis: "When you feel scared, you should eat something sweet. Here, chocolate. Do you like chocolate?"

Kate: "Mm?...Yes. I love chocolates.....thank you."

Roger: "Eat chocolate or whatever you want, but get some rest. The person who brought you here has already gone off somewhere."

Kate: "......Is he not back yet?"

Roger: "No. I don't know where our King went and what kind of mischief he's doing right now?"

The Marquis of Avalus, a recently retired political heavyweight---was brutally murdered.

I expected the police to move in immediately and the newspapers to make a fuss, but this morning I didn't hear a peep. It was an eerie silence.

If William has not returned to the castle then maybe he is cleaning up the mess.

(In the end, it remained unclear why the Marquis was waiting for William)

The thought that 'cleanup' might be related to the mystery and that thought filled me with unease.

(I hope you're safe....and come back home safely)

Liam: "You don't have to worry. Will will be fine."

Kate: ".....Mm. I guess you're right."

Roger: "Yeah. Will has never lost in a mission."

Ellis: "I wish Jude would learn something from him. He gets shot or stabbed once every three days."

Kate: "It's...it's a good thing that he's still alive...."

Roger: "Of course because there is a doctor like me here."

Ellis: "That's right. If weren't for Mr. Roger, he would have died two or three times."

Kate: "Fufu...Ah, I apologize. I shouldn't be laughing about something like this."

Liam: "No problem! You look cuter when you laugh, Kate."

(I can't afford to cause you all any more worry. So let's change our minds for now)

(Ah, yes. I guess it was Master Elbert who carried me to my room yesterday...)

(I also have to thank him)

...............

Just as Mr. Roger told me, this man, who looked like a work of art, stood at the edge of the garden, staring at the grass.

Elbert: "...........Kate? Is there anything you want from me?"

Kate: "I just wanted to thank you for carrying me to my room last night. Thank you very much."

Elbert: ".....Ah.........you're welcome. Are you feeling better now.....?"

Kate: "Yes. As you can see."

Elbert: "I see....thank god."

Eyes as deep blue as the ocean, stare at me as if probing me.

He had a severe expression as if he were dealing with some serious problem.

(Maybe I should leave you before I bother you)

Kate: "Um..."

Elbert: ".............Why do you keep trying to look into the deepest depths of darkness?"

Kate: "Eh.....?"

Elbert: "Both at the workhouse and.....the last night's mission seemed to me that you wanted to be there more than it being your duties as a fairy tale master."

Elbert: "You've been living in peace your whole life......But knowing the truth doesn't always lead to happiness."

Elbert: "....Last night, you were shocked to the point you collapsed. And yet....what did you gain from it....?"

｡⋆｡˚🦋˚｡⋆｡

Elbert: "What do you...gain from knowing all of this....?"

The lost look in his eyes, a little different from concern, seemed to cling to me and I felt I had to answer him properly.

Kate: "I was able, to be honest about my desires to see and know, and that in itself was a gift."

Kate: "If I can see, know, and accept what I feel then I can grasp....what is important to me."

Kate: "I am sure this itself is a big gain for me."

Elbert: "....What about last night? How did you feel.....?"

(Last night...)

Kate: "....I think I was very selfish."

Elbert: "Selfish....?"

Kate: "I understood William's reasons for committing the crime and the determination he had built up to do so."

Kate: "He picks up all the people who cannot be saved by 'justice."

Kate: "I wanted to do something to reward him...for trying to let me flap my wings freely."

Kate: "Even if his evil is never forgiven, I don't want to see a tragedy in his future...."

Kate: "I thought I would be able to be something more than just a 'good' person to him."

Kate: "But when it came time to see his 'evil'....I was speechless."

Elbert: "....Are you afraid of Will?"

(Scared....?)

(Surely, the image of William laughing as usual after killing the Marquis with brutal methods is a bit of a shock)

(Yes...I was really scared)

Kate: "....I was afraid that I would change any more than I already have."

(I was afraid to say the words 'I love you')

(I love him...but I am afraid I'll fall in love with his sin)

(Then surely this time I will...not be able to go back to my normal life)

Master Elbert looked away from me and stared ahead blankly.

Elbert: "....When I step on someone's shadow, I can force that person to relive their saddest memory."

(....Wait..is that his 'ability'? Why is he talking about that out of nowhere?)

I listen to Master Elbert who started talking out of context.

Elbert: "Once when I stepped on William's shadow...he did not falter. He was smiling at me as usual."

Elbert: "If even seeing his saddest memory can't shake William's heart, then he may also no need anyone to stand by his side."

Elbert: "But.....I don't want you to leave William."

Kate: "Eh....?"

Kate: "Why would you....?"

Elbert: "Ever since you met William, you've changed.....I want....to see you change more."

Elbert: "I think I understand....what is it about you that makes me-----"

William: ".....Kate?"

｡⋆｡˚🦋˚｡⋆｡

William: ".....Kate?"

(---William)

The moment I heard that voice, everything I had been thinking about turned into a complete lie.

(You're back...!)

I thought I would be afraid of him because of the evil I saw in him.

But as soon as I saw him now, my whole body was screaming with joy.

Elbert: ".....Welcome home, Will. ......See you later."

Kate: "Ah...yes. Thank you once again. ....You helped calm me down."

Elbert: ".........."

Master Elbert walks away with a sad smile.

William: "............."

William didn't walk towards me and instead stood exactly where he was in the distance, staring at me.

William: "I heard from Roger that you're doing alright and there is nothing to worry about."

Kate: "Yes. .....What about you?"

William: "As you can see, not a scratch."

(Thank god...)

In that moment of relief, my whole body went limp and it was clear it was too late.

(No matter how horrible it is to love William's sin)

(Even if William didn't want a loving and cuddly presence)

I'm just so worried that he might get hurt in some way I don't know about.

But I am so glad that he is safe and that he is back within our reach.

(I can't stop loving William anymore)

------Options------

Let me make sure if you're really alright.

I'd like to talk to you closer.

May I come closer?

----------

Kate: "May I come closer?"

William: ".....Of course. If you want."

Drawn by the red eyes, my feet, of their own accord, move forward.

William: "Be careful not to fall down in the plantings over there."

I missed the scent of him who gave me words of concern but didn't walk up to me.

William: "....Mm. Good girl."

Once I get close to him, I wanted to seek his heart and body so much.

William: "Woah!"

As if to overwrite me for what happened yesterday, when my legs were trembling and I couldn't move.

I jumped into his chest and hugged him tightly.

William: ".....Fufu, you're were passionate today."

Kate: "I'm sorry...I collapsed yesterday."

William: "It's nothing to apologize for. I know you felt something in your heart that you couldn't take in."

William: "And if you could have chosen what you wanted to do with it, what you felt to the point of collapse is...not a bad thing, right?"

The warmth of a soothing palm on my back, his gentle breathing, and the scent of his whole body.

The heat that once warmly soothed my heart is now a fierce, raging heat that touches me from the inside out.

Kate: "Last night's absolution prevented the rise of the Golden Butterfly.....right?"

William: "Kinda. Evil is stubborn. It might come back to life again and again."

William: "So we will have to keep an eye on any chrysalis that is still left and prevent them from hatching."

(I wish one day he could say with optimism that 'evil is gone completely')

(If he did, I could have hope for a future where William could live without sinning)

But surely, evil will not be destroyed, just as the 'butterfly' that William judged 13 years ago has come back to life.

(That's why I'm so scared to love him)

(Into the endless darkness, it seems to go down)

William gently stroked my hair as I strained my arms to embrace him.

William: "If you're feeling alright, why don't we go out for a bit?"

Kate: "....Is it a new mission?"

William: "No? I'm asking you out on a date."

｡⋆｡˚🦋˚｡⋆｡

Kate: "This is so delicious....!"

William: "Good to know."

We went to my favorite cafe, where I used to stop by occasionally to treat myself before coming to the castle.

He told me to order 'whatever I like' and I ordered their delicious peach mousse.

As if it were a lie that I had been worrying about it just a moment ago, the 'daily life' that has become familiar to my skin makes my heart feel soft and smooth.

(If I could live a normal life like this and see William once in a while......would I be happy?)

William ordered a trifle covered in strawberries.

Kate: "Do you like strawberries?"

William: "Do I look like I like strawberries?"

Kate: "Eh? Hmm....I have judged by the look on your face after you eat it."

William: "Fufu. I might get nervous if someone watches me so intently."

Kate: "....That's a lie. You said you're used to being stared at when going to theaters."

William: "Haha. You still remember that."

I stared at his expression as he brought the strawberry to his lips.

(.....Ah)

The bright red berry covered with whipped cream disappears in William's mouth.

The more I tried to look at his face, my eyes, on their own, goes to stare down at his lips.

My heart banged against my chest and I wasn't able to determine if he liked the strawberries or not.

(I should be looking at his face....not his....)

William: "Mmm...."

While licking the tiny amount of cream on the corner of his lips, William looks at me.

The moment our eyes met, I squeaked.

William: ".....So? What do you think?"

Kate: "Ah....Ah...."

Kate: "I didn't have enough time....because I was busy admiring you..."

William: "Ahahahaha."

William laughed hysterically.

A pick-up line that is fitting under the warm sunlight, and the sweet and gentle aroma of the cafe.

Kate: "There is no need to laugh so much...."

William: "Sorry. ....You look so cute when you are all honest and become red, like that."

Kate: ".....I'm not cute. You're just more amused seeing me like this."

William: "You're right. I'm more and more amused when your face becomes more honest."

William: "But yeah, I eat my favorite food like this. So I hope you will forgive me for getting a little carried away."

Kate: "........Eh?"

William: "Mm?"

(Wait, he said his 'favorite food', right now!?)

Kate: "I knew it!"

William: "Mmhm. I like it."

(If he had told me from the beginning, I wouldn't have ogled and wouldn't feel guilty for it...)

Kate: "....Why didn't you just tell me?"

When I was being completely naked with my feelings, William happily laughs at my frank attitude.

William: "I wanted you to unravel it yourself."

...........

William: "Where do you wanna go next?"

Kate: "Hmm..."

Aristocrat: "Sir Rex. It's been a long time! Good to see you here..."

William: "Ah, James. How are you? How is your business going?"

James: "It's going well! ...I've been wondering how to thank you for everything you have done for me."

William: "Reading about your big achievements in the newspapers is already enough for me."

The man who was talking to William was looking at him warmly as if he was fascinated.

I'm sure I'll be like him one day, where I'll never get to talk to William again unless I run into him on the street like this.

(I would like to live a normal life and see William...once in a while)

(Why did I think such a dreamy thing?)

(If I choose of my own volition to leave that Castle....)

(I'm sure William will never have any business with me again)

I'm sure he will just see me off with a smile like the gentle spring rain, just like I saw in that hospital ward.

(I, like this man, will be looking for him on the street corner)

The scenery of daily life in London, which is supposed to be calm and nostalgic, suddenly seems alien to me.

(Do I really want to go back? ---To my normal life where I don't know him?)

(Into this peace protected by his love....with nothing to give back to him?)

William: "Kate. Kateee...."

Kate: "! Sorry, I was spacing out!"

While I was thinking, the man seemed to have left

William: "Sorry, I got distracted. So? Where do you wanna go next?"

(Where do I wanna go next...?)

In my mind, I saw a majestic castle deep in a dense forest.

(I want you to take me to a place where we can be alone...where I am the only one allowed to be near William)

Kate: "...Your room."

William: "Hm?"

Kate: "Let's go....to your room."

Chapter 14

[writteninlunarlight-years]

Can I request a match-up for Baldur's Gate 3 & Obey Me please?

Gender: Female

Pronouns: She/Her

Sexuality: Straight (Please exclude Raphael, Emperor, Cazador, Thorm, and the Withers!)

Appearance: I'm a skinny woman who looks like a teenager despite being in my late twenties. My height is like 154cm. I have dark armpit length hair that's tied in a low ponytail. I have big eyes, and I wear wide frame glasses. My nose shape is fleshy nose. I wear oversized t-shirts, baggy pants, and sport shoes

(MBTI &/or Engram if you would like to take the tests and add it) : INFP-T

Personality: I'm shy, timid, quiet & polite to strangers. With people I'm comfortable with, I'm loud, outgoing, playful, mature, responsible, motherly(to naughty friends), childlike(to mature friends/family) and sarcastic (unintentionally).

I'm kinda tomboyish as I wear over-sized t-shirts, baggy pants, sneakers but don't play sports or video games. I'm a slow learner, not smart, not strong, and not talented. I'm pretty dense, straightforward, oblivious, and naive too.

I get confused or misunderstand what people meant easily so it's best if you tell me straight to my face so I can't be mistaken. I'm also touch starved as I love giving & receiving affection but I only can hug one person and even then, I do my best to not overdo it.

I'm a hopeless romantic, sensitive, forgetful, & overthink often. I work as hard as I can & try my best & be careful as I can to everything I do, as I'm pretty clumsy & makes mistakes more often than most people. I try to help my family and friends as they've helped me & cared for me dearly.

I try to communicate properly & ask for their consent first before doing anything because I misunderstood that I had their permission before. I do my best to give people the benefit of doubt but I do have my limits. I don't really get angry often that even my family & friends are surprised when it happens once in a blue moon.

I don't believe in compliments I get occasionally or why my family & friends care for me because I don't see good things in myself only bad things.

Likes (at least like three things): music, fanfiction, manga, anime, cartoons, books (If I find it interesting), family, friends, potato chips, chocolate, cakes, bread, anyone who is kind, patient, supportive, helpful, tries at least, trustworthy, responsible, fair in general, respectful, flexible, honest, open-minded, humble, sincere, accepting, thoughtful, encouraging, forgiving, careful, understanding, wise, mature, cooperative, caring, etc. That's more but that's all I could think of.

Dislikes (at least three things): anyone who's rude, disrespectful, doesn't listen to others, refuse to admit mistakes, blames others for their mistakes, ignores people yet demands attention from them, demanding, won't acknowledge what you said, hypocritical, biased, irresponsible, careless, disloyal, inconsiderate, insensitive, inflexible, petty, hostile, untrustworthy, immature, uncooperative, unforgiving, judgemental, narrow-minded, self-centred, unethical, self-righteous, etc. That's more but that's all I could think of.

Hobbies : drawing, reading manga, listening to music, fanfics especially reader inserts, and watching anime, movies, & cartoons. My favourite genre is romance but I love comedy, mystery, action, sci-fi, fantasy, and historical too! My favourite music genre is pop, but I also love ballads, & alternative rock!

Extra fun fact (this is about whoever you are describing to me): I'm kinda perverted which contrasts my innocent & baby face. I keep it to myself though. I always need to let the cinema employees check my identity card to verify my age whenever I watch a R-rated movie.

Although a kind stranger realises I'm older than I looked when we talked about how I didn't lashed out in anger at someone who didn't do anything wrong to me because I know how it felt to be in that position.

Please and thank you!

It's finally the weekend!!! I am ready to pump out some content for my favorite people!

~~~~~ MATCH UP ~~~~~

For your Baldurs Gate 3 match up I chose this person due to their great sarcasm, loyalty, stubbornness, and deep understanding of struggling with self love.

I match you with-------

Astration Ancunin (Non Ascended)

~~~~~ Headcanon ~~~~~

The first time he met you, he thought you were a child until he got up close to you and realized you were just a very innocent-looking adult.

Astarion can't remember the last time he had a mother, he has only experienced 200 years of being a slave and being hurt.

Astarion loves it when you mom him. He will act like he doesn't, but he secretly craves for someone to take care of him and not let the bad eat him alive anymore.

The dry sarcasm king will attempt many battles of wits with you only to get frustrated that you're just slightly better, so he resorts to flirting and cheap tactics.

Astarion also struggles with compliments. He knows he must be attractive because of the number of people he has taken to his master, but he just can't see past the monster he thinks he is.

Due to his own issues with self-image, he takes extra care to describe clearly and in detail what he loves about you and finds beautiful.

~~~~~ BLURB ~~~~~

Your group had safely reached the east bridge leading you into Baldurs Gate. Worn down, hungry, and quite the smelly group, you sought refuge at the first tavern. As you entered the building, it was apparent how costly this would be. Looking at your dwindling coin pouch and your exhausted companions, you sucked it up and went to the tavern keeper. "We need eight beds, please." You gently placed your coin pouch on the table, separating you two. The tavern clerk looked through your coins and set down 4 keys. "This all I gots for ya, kiddo. Why someone as young as you got so much gold." Sighing dramatically, you grabbed the keys. "I am an adult, sir."

You walked over to reconvene with your group, giving them the bad news of the bed situation. Lazel and Shadowheart, having worked through their differences, offered to sleep together. Gale and Halsin had just started discussing the inner workings of combining nature with the weave, which they used as a reason to pair up. Wyll and Karlach had so much sexual tension after their joined union that it would be unfair to separate them. Leaving you and the pale elf left to share. You all made it to your rooms, hoping to get a good night's rest. As you entered, you began to make a pallet on the floor. "Love, I can not allow you to sleep on the floor." You smirked, continuing, "Good, I didn't ask for permission." Astarion scoffed before grabbing your pallet materials and plopping them on the bed. You whipped around to look at him.

"Love, you do so much for our group; you keep us going and me going. If I let you sleep on the ground and wear out your back, I would not only face the wrath of the group and myself but also not be able to live with myself as your partner." Hearing the sincerity in his voice, you smiled softly. You made your way over to the bed, and as you sat down, you grabbed his arm and brought him with you. "Then I say we share a bed; I know we said we'd go slow with anything more, but some cuddles, I think, would do us both some good." Nodding at you with a soft smile, Astarion positioned himself on the bed, allowing you to curl up into him. Honestly, it was the best night of sleep of your life.

~~~~~ EXTRA ~~~~~

(After the final battle, sitting outside admiring the moon with Astarion, you two imagine what nightlife will mean for you now.)

Astarion: I never thought the day would come when I wouldn't need to watch my back.

Y/N: I am proud of you for the choice you made. Together, we can accomplish anything. We just gotta believe in each other.

(Astarion snorts and lays back on the ground)

Astarion: You sound like a school teacher, which is ironic cause you look like a school kid.

(Gasping in shock and smacking his arm lightly)

Y/N: How dare you? There are no cuddles for you tonight.

For your Obey Me! matchup, I chose someone super intelligent and nonjudgmental—unless you're Mammon. He is possessive, especially when his eldest brother notices what is his and cares about what he finds oh-so-cute.

I match you with------

Satan

~~~~~ HEADCANON ~~~~~

It is no lie that Satan is obsessed with cats. He thinks they are the most perfect innocent creatures in the world.

Innocent creatures, innocent girlfriends; what I am getting at is he tried to get you to dress up as a kitten once or twice.

He loves to read with you; he will even help you transcribe books from the devildom you can't read.

Satan is to the point with his brothers, other demons, and especially his partner. The only time satan doesn't talk directly to anyone is when it involves one of his insecurities.

He is a sarcastic man. I mean, come on, we see it in the game. From calling out Mammon to pointing out things Beel does, he makes sure to lace it all with sarcasm.

If you mess up anything in his presence, he is very gentle with you. he knows how frustrating it can be to mess up and how infuriating it is when someone talks down to you like a child.

Satan's wrath comes out almost instantly when he hears someone wrong you, whether that is them calling you a child or making you mad.

~~~~~ BLURB ~~~~~

You had been visiting the nearby grocery store with Satan, shopping for dinner tonight. Satan asked you kindly to help him with dinner, and how could you not agree? As you perused the aisle with Satan, looking for what he would cook, you couldn't help but get distracted by the flower section.

Of course, the devildom had some similar flowers as they did in the mortal realm, but most were new to you and quite interesting. As you looked over the flowers, you began to give yourself a mini test on their names and properties, seeing as you and Satan had just finished transcribing a book on devildom flowers. You pulled back and looked around once you had gotten through most of the flowers. Satan was gone; you were in an unfamiliar place, and a shady demon approached you. Shit. Preparing yourself for the encounter, you went back to the flowers. Maybe he will lose interest if you don't interact.

"Heya doll, whatcha doing buying some flowers for mommy." You turned around to face the demon irritation tight on your brow. The demon looked shocked before smirking."Not flowers for mommy, but maybe flowers for yourself. Don't have a man who could buy these for you?" You scoffed at the redicouls notion, "Excuse me but I don't need a man to buy me flowers I can buy them myself. However, I have a man who would be more than happy too." The demon pulled back, looking around you, noticing no one in sight. "Looks like you got no one who would I hates to break it to you." As the demon bent back down in your face, ready to make a wildly inappropriate proposition to you, he suddenly went flying across the store.

Before you stood Satan in his complete form, breathing heavily. "Leave her alone; she doesn't want to talk to a lowlife like you." Looking up at your partner, you couldn't help but smile softly. As Satan turned to look at you, he slowly transformed and grabbed your hand, muttering a soft "I'll get you flowers before we leave."

~~~~~ EXTRA ~~~~~

(You and satan had decided that after reading an excellent book together, you would watch the movie adaption next. Satan went to collect food for the occasion as you got the theater room ready. Walking in with a large amount of snacks, you were surprised it wasn't Beel helping instead)

Y/N: Woah, love, let me help you with all of that

(Helping take some of the load off of Satan's arms, you noticed all of your favorite foods and very little of Satan's.)

Satan: I may have gone overboard trying to make sure Beel didn't eat your snacks, which I paid little attention to on my own.

Y/N: (holding back a laugh) Don't worry, love, I am more than willing to share.

I hope you like it! I am so glad to be back in the writing groove. Twenty-four hours of no stories and facing off with a storm was far too much for me, lol!

[godsofhumanity]

I meant hera and demeter sisterhood hcs loooool

oooohhh lmfaoo sorry haha, WHEW! i was worried someone read my hc and was like "yeah that's romantic".. ewww they are SISTERS in the sibling-sense.

so, Hera and Demeter are like two sides of the same coin to me.. Demeter physically looks like Rhea, but Hera has a lot of Rhea's personality.. so they kinda balance each other out. like, Rhea's whole character gets embodied between the two girls (im not talking about Hestia in this post haha).

anyways, this is important to me because, in my hc's, Rhea sticks around with Kronos for a REALLY long time before she finally puts her foot down.. and i mean, she goes through A LOT. similarly, Hera also sticks around with Zeus for a REALLY long time.. and unlike Rhea, Hera never gets to finally be free of her difficult husband.

now, naturally, i think Zeus and Kronos are on different levels, and there are reasons why i think it was necessary that Kronos x Rhea didn't last, but Zeus x Hera do, but i won't explore that here... my point is that i think Rhea has a hugeee heart, and was extremely forgiving (note: she's not a pushover, she doesn't love Kronos, but she forgives him for all the pain he causes her because she's just the bigger person)... and i think that's similar to Hera always opening her arms to Zeus every time he betrays her heart. Hera inherits Rhea's forgiving nature.

meanwhile, Demeter is wayyy more rigid. she doesn't stay on Olympus because she knows the absolute dogs many of the gods are on Olympus... and she hates the environment. she hates the debauchery, the competitiveness, the corruption. she saw it once, and she will never give Olympus another chance. that's why there's no question that Persephone will be raised away from Olympus... Demeter is unforgiving.

this is where the sisters balance each other out. Hera teaches Demeter to open her heart a little more, Demeter teaches Hera to stand up for herself and fight harder. in this way, both learn the right time to wage war and the right time to end it.

my classic example is the Persephone and Hades myth. we all know how pissed off Demeter was when she learnt of Hades and Zeus' secret arrangement.. in my version of events, after Persephone spends time in the Underworld and learns of a future where she could be a great goddess on her own, not under the shadow of Demeter, she decides to seize that opportunity (she does not love Hades at that time, she just has ambitions and wants to make the most of her godhood), however, when she learns that Demeter's gonna starve the world to death, she decides that she should go home because she doesn't want everyone else to suffer. in Olympus, Zeus, Demeter and Hades are all arguing about what should happen to Persephone, and Hera is the one who is like, "hey let's listen to what Persephone wants"... and by doing that, i think Hera helps Demeter to forgive not Hades, but Persephone.. she helps Demeter let go of her daughter and understand that Persephone isn't leaving her and isn't betraying her.. she kinda opens Demeter's heart up a little.. idk if i explained that properly.

anyways, my point is that Demeter and Hera help each other develop.

i imagine Demeter to be Hera's closest confidant in all the affairs that go down in Olympus. i like the idea of Demeter being the one who encourages Hera to put her foot down to Zeus, and i like the idea of Demeter being on Hera's side for all of those mini-(failed)-rebellions that we see Hera lead against Zeus in the myths. to be clear, i don't think Demeter encourages Hera to abuse Zeus' mistresses-- that's Hera's own thing. but i do think Demeter helps Hera to be a little tougher.

i think Hera spends the most time in Demeter's company, like on her farm... i think both women appreciate being away from the buzz of Olympus... i imagine that in their youth, when the second generation of titans and the Olympians were on good terms (i.e., before the punishment of Prometheus), Demeter and Hera would have gotten away from the busyness of Olympus by hiding out on Asteria's island (which was forbidden to all gods/men), and they would spend their time with the other girls; Hesione (Prometheus' wife), Metis (this would have been before her death), Asteria, Styx, Eos, Selene, etc., dancing, frolicking in the fields, making flower crowns, sparring, etc.

and then after the titans left Olympus when relationships broke down, Hera and Demeter were kind of the only ones left... that's how they started hanging around Demeter's farm instead of Asteria's island.

anyways. they are super tight and are essentially each other's best friend <33

[junowritings]

Can I request a match up for Baldur's Gate 3 please?

My preferred pronouns: she/her

My partner preferences : Male except Raphael, Emperor, Cazador, Thorm, and the Withers!

My personality : I'm shy, timid, quiet & polite to strangers. With people I'm comfortable with, I'm loud, outgoing, playful, mature, responsible, motherly(to naughty friends), childlike(to mature friends/family) and sarcastic (unintentionally).

I'm kinda tomboyish as I wear over-sized t-shirts, baggy pants, sneakers but don't play sports or video games. I'm a slow learner, not smart, not strong, and not talented.

I'm pretty dense, straightforward, oblivious, and naive too.I get confused or misunderstand what people meant easily so it's best if you tell me straight to my face so I can't be mistaken. I'm also touch starved as I love giving & receiving affection but I only can hug one person and even then, I do my best to not overdo it.

I'm a hopeless romantic, dense, sensitive, forgetful, unreliable, & overthink often. I work as hard as I can & try my best & be careful as I can to everything I do, as I'm pretty clumsy & makes mistakes more often than most people. I try to help my family and friends as they've helped me & cared for me dearly.

I try to communicate properly & ask for their consent first before doing anything because I misunderstood that I had their permission before. I do my best to give people the benefit of doubt but I do have my limits. I don't really get angry often that even my family & friends are surprised when it happens once in a blue moon.

I don't believe in compliments I get occasionally or why my family & friends care for me because I don't see good things in myself only bad things.I'm kinda perverted which contrasts my innocent & baby face. I keep it to myself though. I always need to let the cinema employees check my identity card to verify my age whenever I watch a R-rated movie.

Although a kind stranger realises I'm older than I looked when we talked about how I didn't lashed out in anger at someone who didn't do anything wrong to me because I know how it felt to be in that position

Hobbies : drawing, reading manga, listening to music, fanfics especially reader inserts, and watching anime, movies, & cartoons. My favourite genre is romance but I love comedy, mystery, action, sci-fi, fantasy, and historical too! My favourite music genre is pop, but I also love ballads, & alternative rock!

Likes : music, fanfiction, manga, anime, cartoons, books (If I find it interesting), family, friends, potato chips, chocolate, cakes, bread, anyone who is kind, patient, supportive, helpful, tries at least, trustworthy, responsible, fair in general, respectful, flexible, honest, open-minded, humble, sincere, accepting, thoughtful, encouraging, forgiving, careful, understanding, wise, mature, cooperative, caring, etc. That's more but that's all I could think of

Dislikes : anyone who's rude, disrespectful, doesn't listen to others, refuse to admit mistakes, blames others for their mistakes, ignores people yet demands attention from them, demanding, won't acknowledge what you said, hypocritical, biased, irresponsible, careless, disloyal, inconsiderate, insensitive, inflexible, petty, hostile, untrustworthy, immature, uncooperative, unforgiving, judgemental, narrow-minded, self-centred, unethical, self-righteous, etc. That's more but that's all I could think of

Please & thank you!

Of course you can hun! Hell yeah first match up for BG3! Thank you so much for the request and I do hope that you're doing well!

Now without further ado, I match you with...

Hun you deserve a whole lot of love, and no one is more willing to provide it than Dammon! 

Dammon has an affable personality - warm and easygoing to everyone he’s crossed paths with. It makes even some of the most hardened hearts melt like metal over a forge fire, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself warming up to him faster than you’d expect. 

The first few times that the pair of you meet it’s understandable to be shy and quiet. He’ll respect that you may not be the most outgoing around someone you haven’t gotten the time to know. He’s happy to be the mediator for you; he’ll fill in the gaps with idle chatter as he works, prodding with the occasional curious question about yourself or your day if your comfortable. Honestly he’s content to simply exist in your space until those short, polite responses of yours begin to ease into something more genuine - something a little more you.

He admittedly feels proud when you begin to open up around him, since it’s a sign that you’re feeling more comfortable around him. It’s exciting seeing you acting more carefree and loud! The playfulness and sarcasm is a pleasant surprise for him. Dammon can sometimes be downright wicked, so if you’re in any playful kind of mood? You guys go together like a match and oil, much to the detriment of any friends in the vicinity. Plus, even if you don’t notice you’re being sarcastic, the snort and poorly concealed chuckle from the tiefling wherever he is becomes enough of an indication - he can’t help but get a little kick out of the confused look you give him till you clock onto why he’s so easily amused.

You say you’re untalented and not smart, but Dammon will be firm in insisting otherwise! The look on his face the first time you’d said it, so casually as though it were the truth - it genuinely left him speechless. He’d stop whatever he’s doing to move over to your side, taking your hands in his and tugging you so close like his touch will somehow convince you that he means it when he tells you that couldn’t be further from the truth. There's no missing the way you view yourself with a critical eye, so he delegates himself to professional encourager to balance that out - actually called himself that once and will actively do it again if it so much as gets a smile out of you. Not to mention it’s a wonderful excuse to shower you in praise every chance he gets; which with his penchant for encouraging words and teasing means you better get used to being on the receiving end of his endless affections. 

Dammon’s a quick learner. Once he notices that you struggle with misunderstandings he tries to keep in mind to be a little more straightforward in conversation. If he notices in conversations with others that whoever’s talking has lost you with what they’re doing or saying, Dammon doesn’t think twice about subtly leaning in to fill you in on the blanks. He wants you to feel included and doesn’t want you feeling left out - he’s a considerate guy!

Say goodbye to being touch starved because this man is HERE. Dammon gets fidgety when he’s got nothing to work on; he’s so used to working with the heft of tools in his hands that they feel a little emptier without them. Before you two became a thing he’d bring some of his tinier passion projects to tinker with outside the forge, eager to tell you all about them since he doesn’t want you to mistakenly think he’s uninterested. After that though things are still the same, just that these projects have now been replaced by you. Honestly if he had his way he’d always want to be touching you in some way - and if you’re comfortable he will! His hands will always seek out yours for comfort, giving reassuring squeezes when he catches you overthinking. 

Soft touches to your arms, along your back, wherever this tiefling can reach he’s there - there’s just so much of you to love! And when his hands are occupied his tail is right there, circling around your wrist or curling round your hip to keep you in his space. Be sure to give him plenty of love too! Communication comes into play a lot here - Dammon will reassure you every time that he wants whatever affection you’re comfortable to give, but he appreciates that you check in beforehand; it’s a sweet gesture.

Let him listen to your music! He’s got a tendency to get any kind of music stuck in his head even after the first listen; Alfira’s tunes back at the Grove always had him tapping out the notes with clawed fingers along his workspace. Cutest thing is he doesn’t even know he’s doing it - please point out that he’s tapping out a tune or humming along to one of the songs you’d shown him under his breath; he goes copper up to his ears whenever you mention it.

Enjoys hearing about all of your interests, but the pair of you really hit it off over the books. On the road there wasn’t much time or luxury to expand on his reading aside from the few things Dammon brought with him; and books that could be carried on the move were hard to come by. Now that he’s settled in Baldur’s gate he’s set on spending more time doing stuff he enjoys - he’s more than earned the rest at least. And what better way to spend that time than being cuddled up into your side, content to read either alongside you or while you’re enjoying your other hobbies. Dammon’s a sucker for any kind of domestic intimacy like this, and he’ll share the books that he has with you if you’ll do the same. 

That being said, there's no way he’s giving up that one book in his room easily, at least not until you two have been together for a while. Though, that resolve lasts about as long as it takes for you to kiss the guy till he can’t think straight. 

Needless to say, Dammon’s certainly smitten with you.

[weather-cluddy]

The Purge March translation trivia

One thing I noticed is that between the trailer and Purge March's actual release, the chorus got reworded to sound considerably more lofty and literary. Deny vs disavow, "nary a sound", "eyes corrupted", that sort of thing. This goes even further for the rules section, which starts slinging around 'tis and thou.

And the thing is, this is not really the case in the original Japanese. The grammar isn't particularly archaic, nor is the word choice unusually complicated. But there is one line that stands out for something along those lines. Wanna know which one?

It's one of the last lines, translated as "You're sorry? I don't care!". Put literally, it'd be something like "Even if you apologize, bleh!" What's "bleh" supposed to mean, you ask? Well, it's the onomatopeia for the gesture of pulling your eyelid down and sticking your tongue out, sometimes blowing a raspberry for good measure. Not the most dignified behavior, is it?

And, you know, I actually want to focus on the last three lines more, because I think it's an interesting example of how a small change can make for a big shift. As a refresher, this is the official translation of the end of The Purge March:

"After you cry, repent, and kneel, it’s now your turn to say that hopeless 'I’m sorry' You’re sorry? I don’t care! Please, go ahead and die already. Remember MY cries, MY repents, MY words of “I’m sorry” that I said to you?"

Let's start with the first line. Translating it myself, I'd render it as "After you cry, repent and kneel, try and say 'I'm sorry'". As we can see, there's no implication that this happened to Amane first, and the word "hopeless" is not present either.

But this is actually the second time this particular line shows up. The first time time is right after the trailer part. You know, "these scum saying it can't be helped is unforgivable, let's crush their eyes and throat so they'll stop"?

Now this is my interpretation, but talking about how awful "they" (AKA, you) are and how they're going to be punished horribly and following it with a request (okay, order) for an apology… kind of makes it sound like redemption is possible? If it was just about getting rid of a worthless heretic, who cares if they apologize?

And sure, this redemption doesn't sound very pleasant! But then again, it never was for Amane, was it? That's probably part and parcel of "purification", to her. She did said that "they" would forgive our trespasses if we reflected and corrected our behavior, after all. And the lyrics right after this are "If you become a bad girl, monsters will come out. This is the magic that stops that from happening". The first stanza of Magic already told us what the magic word is: "Sorry." Taking all this into account, isn't it possible that this is intended a very, very tough love?

The stanza leading up to the second chorus also goes along similar lines. She says she doesn't need it/you anymore, if you're going to break your promise. She'll tear you apart, as punishment (though that word got skipped in the translation). She'll deal back what you gave her, so that this won't happen again. It's extremely aggresive, but the constant refrain is that this is deserved and will set everything right. Everything, perhaps including you. It seems like there's a small, faint ray of hope peeking through the clouds…

And that's where the twist in last two lines come in. You thought you could maybe worm your way into the light? Nope, she's already decided that you're done for! And this also marks a transition in the lyrics, from Amane as the avenging angel of justice she's been the entire song, to Amane as an imperfect human who, once upon a time, also had to cry, repent and kneel down. But that's not going to save you now.

That contrast doesn't exist if we already know that Amane tried and failed, nor does the implication that forgiveness is possible. Now, you could say that "scum that can't be helped" already foreshadows that they/you are supposed to be beyond salvation, but it gets a lot less focus than the "say you're sorry" line, much easier to gloss over as a simple play on words. So I still think that the last stanza is supposed to be unexpected, especially considering that it happens only fifteen seconds before the end of the song and has Amane dropping the singing for extra emphasis.

That's more or less all I have to say about the song itself, but I'd like to double back on something I glossed over. Now, maybe your ears perked up when I said that the original lyrics include the word "punishment", but I should note that this is not the same word as the tagline "Doubt your punishment", nor the one Kotoko uses (in her voicelines, at least). For that matter, the next sentence doesn't actually say "judgement" either (though it does appear in the intro), so it doesn't seem like this stanza is supposed to be a call-back to Milgram in particular, at least no more so than the rest of the song. It's not the same one as in Amane's T2 VD either, that one's more like "retaliation" or "revenge".

However! You know what word is shaping up to be pretty important? It's right there in the title: purge!

So far we've seen it in three places, not counting voice dramas or app convos: one is of course The Purge March. The other two are Kotoko's second glitch line ("Purge complete. These are your just desserts") and the very first page of the manga, where Es narrates "This is a purge" over a corpse.

I assume Es says the same in the novel, but as I don't have the original text I cannot confirm. Either way, that scene wasn't originally a flash-forward, so isn't it interesting that they chose that line to be the very first thing you see when you open the volume, even putting it above the title? I suspect we'll be seeing it a lot more in the future as we unravel Milgram's mysteries. The word "lost", as well.