#plus he'd easily get swept up by the others

[milkbreadtoast]

This meme is ancient but I randomly saw it again and i needed to do it..... (not sure abt some of the charas but just wanted to fill up space dmfbn)

[heartfullofleeches]

Spill

Immortal Male Yan + G.N Criminal Reader

Summary: You kidnapped him to get some information about a shared friend, but he won't give in so easily

Warnings: Sadomasochism themes, violence, slightly suggestive scene

Good little Silas.

Always keeps every word someone says to him.

It's his job afterall - one no-one else in the entire world could full. You see, Silas knew the secrets of a lot of dangerous people. The type of series others would die, or even kill for. Why would these people trust a scrawny, pathetic looking guy like him? It's simple really. He has a bigger secret than all of them combined.

He couldn't die.

It was really hard to convince his boss of his usefulness at first. His buddies put a bullet through his skull and tossed him into the trash out back before he could demonstrate himself. Didn't even buy him dinner before hand. Assholes. Coming back after having his brains splattered on his soon to be employer's did wonders for his credibility. He was mostly used as a living meat shield early on, but with his resilience to wounds and the pain they may cause his boss become more relaxed around him. He had proven worth plus is anyone ever caught wind of their ties and kidnapped him Silas would never saw a thing. He was the perfect lapdog.

After that he pretty much became an outlet for everyone's tales. From little white lights to infidelity, murder, and every other sin in the book. Sweet Silas would do his to lean an ear and give input when requested. By the end of the year Silas had enough information to get everyone involved arrested, murdered, or whatever else might happen if he let any details slip. He could easily save the lives of innocent people, but he had a bigger prey to catch than the fleeting high of justice.

After all, a good boy might go to the police, and he was no good boy.

-

Silas greedily gulps down tablespoons of water as the glass clacks against his teeth.

"Feeling better?"

"Mhm..."

A backhand soars across his face.

"Good."

Silas' head hangs at an awkward angle from the force, red stained saliva dribbling down his lips. He bite into the lower one to avoid making a sound. Normally he'd hold his captor to the same standards as his friends in regards to filling his stomach with something other than water before smacking him around, but this was no ordinary kidnapper. They were intoxicating, threatening, the exact type of person he'd love to...

Ugh, he's getting carried away again.

Best not to do that while he's still playing an innocent victim, especially in front of his Doll. Just a single week before his employment, Silas fell in love. The culprit of his stolen heart was a crook committing another robbery that night, the two's paths crossed in an alley behind the bank. No questions asked, his future spouse stabbed him directly in his chest before they fled the scene. That boldness almost made them an optional playmate, but that hint of guilt in their eyes swept him off his feet. Researching them only made him fall madder in love. He would do anything to have them.

"I don't want to hurt you. Just tell me code to his safe and I'll let you go.

Facing away, Silas is fully able to roll his eyes. At least threaten his life if he speaks while you're at it.

"Please... I really don't know what you're talking about. I'm just a waiter!" He fights in his restraints and sobs with wide eyes, hoping to sell the act anc draw attention away from his lower body. Pitching a tent right in front of his doll on their first meeting was rather embarrassing. You snarl as you pick up your knife.

"Just tell me what I want to know!"

You're so pretty when you scream. Silas can't wait for his turn to play. He holds it isn't too long so he can take a picture of his wounds and mirror them on you so you'll have matching scars. Sure he'll have to redo his now and then, but the photos you take at your wedding won't know that.

You ghost the blade down along his neck. Silas swallows to feel its point and prevent himself from choking on the blood collecting in his mouth. He wants to act just a little longer - but you're making it so hard teasing him like that. He repeats his scripted moto in his head like a pray as you drag the knife down his chest.

Scream. Cry. Scream. Cry. Ah-

Your eyes grow to the size of dinner plates as the tiny moan sounds within the empty room. It's not a whimper you're used to, but one of pure unadulterated lust. "Did.. you just."

No going back now. So much for that.

"Guess I just can't help it, Dolly. You're too fucking irresponsible. I know you wanna hurt me, but since I love you so much I wanna let you in on a little secret. You can hurt me, but you can't kill me. Break me apart if you don't believe me. I'll be back tomorrow to take what's mine."

You step back as he erupts into a fit of shrill laughter. "That bastard- Always hiring the freaks. I can't believe he ditch me for someone like you."

His laughter stops. That's a secret his boss never shared with him. That old fuck would've been dead long before then if he had.

"Ohh, did he do something to hurt you? That changes everything. I'll give you whatever you want to know down to his house code if you let me have first cut."

"Why would you help me?"

"I already told you, Doll." Silas stands up and drops the cuffs to the ground, dislocated bones bopping back into place as he flexes. "I love ya, and I'm gonna make sure whoever's hurt you pays. Got this job just to help you out anyway. Issue is if you want me to spill the beans without a few dates first you gotta spilling my guts on the floor as my spit spills down your pretty throat."

[potatomountain]

Chapter Five

📍pairing: detective ateez ot8 x detective reader

📍word count: 3.5k

📍network: @pirateeznet

📍Warnings: (TBD)

📍Beta readers (and sole motivation): @flurrys-creativity , @candypop1611 and @daesukiii

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As an apology, and to give you a little break, Hongjoong had sent you out with San to grab food for everyone- yourself included. San changed out of the bloody shirt into a black button up after he let Seonghwa finish bandaging him up. They let you pick the place and you offered the deli down the street you had been going to. San took their orders and walked with you, encouraging you to rant about the others and he listened, giving you his full attention. You had been apprehensive about it at first, but a part of you wanted to lean on him.

He had come to your figurative rescue earlier, knocking on the door and apologizing for them. He managed to coax you out, and when you opened the door he had been sweet, joking about beating up the others on your behalf and that he could get away with it. Plus, you needed an ally, even if it was just partially.

You didn’t understand why San wasn’t hostile to you from the start like the others, why he sought you out to comfort you and why now he was listening so intently… but you liked it. You didn’t trust him of course, but you enjoyed his company none-the-less. Arriving at the deli he gave everyone’s order and looked at you expectantly.

“I still have my food at the office.” You were just thankful for the excuse to come back out.

“It's probably cold by now. Get something. It's on the Captain's card so don't worry about the price.” He smirked, showing off the card between two of his fingers. “Come on, make it hurt.”

Grinning, he did have a point. You ordered more food than you could eat but San encouraged you by saying he could hide the rotting food in one of the other's things. The childish prank idea had you giddy.

The walk back he insisted on carrying all the food and some of the drinks, leaving you with one carrier and your own food. He didn't struggle with it, continued talking as if you two had been working together for awhile. It was almost alarming how easily you got swept up into his charm.

“See I'd bet Jongho would just flip his shit, desk too, if he found a moldy mass just hiding in his back drawer.  Either him or Mingi would have the best reactions.”

“What about Yeosang?” You asked, amused by his descriptions of how each of them would react.

San shrugged. “He keeps himself locked in his work room, it would be hard to sneak it in there. Captain would also be a good idea as his office is usually left a mess but you would have to hide it well enough that Hwa wouldn't find it while cleaning. If he did- well he'd just blame the Captain.”

You tried to picture an argument between the two over a moldy forgotten sandwich, bringing a smile back to your face once more. “Now that sounds even more interesting. And you said Yunho would be the least reactive?”

“Mhmm, not much actually pisses him off. He'd probably just throw it away when he saw it and forget about it in minutes.”

“I see…” He had appeared to be the friendlier of them, or well least angry. Despite his teasing and condescending interactions, he had talked to you the most. “The amount of testosterone between all of you is absolutely infuriating, you know.”

“Yeah- I know. If circumstances were different I wouldn't be surprised if they had a bet going of who would fuck you first.” He chuckled dryly, the building in view.

You made a disgusted face at that. “UGH, men.”

He was still laughing when you two entered through the front. You set your food and drink down first before following San to the back, your now good mood getting more tense with each step.

You wanted to believe things were resolved- wanting to believe there was no more hostility- but they attempted a truce before and that turned into the argument earlier. So as you followed San to the nearest desk and set everything down, you were visibly on edge.

“I'm going to go eat now…” You told San, not bothering to look at anyone else that might be in the room. 

San reached out and grabbed your wrist gently, eyes searching your expression. “You sure you don't want to eat with us?” 

Shaking your head you pulled away. “No thanks, I'm not going to push my luck. I've had enough testosterone today.” With a heavy sigh you turned to head back to your meal- only to run into a chest. “Ou-”

“Sorry, figured you would be more on your toes.” Seonghwa grabbed your forearms to steady you, the hint of a smirk on his lips.

You narrowed your eyes in response. “Forgive me for not being more on edge.”

His expression fell, as did his hands. “That wasn't- it wasn't a jab, I'm sorry.” He looked you over, standing in your way to keep you from leaving. “Captain asked if we could join you to eat? He wants to have a chat.”

Stiffening a bit, you knew it was an order and not a request. “Do I- fine, I'll be at my desk.” You bit off your defensive retort and relented defeat, making your way around him with a heavy sigh.

You were much more mentally exhausted than you had believed, your temples beginning to throb as you made your way back to your desk. You were given a moment to sit down and collect your thoughts before the two of them joined you. Seonghwa stood on the other side of your desk while Hongjoong sat down right next to you- he had dragged a stool back and plopped it down right next to you.

The difference between the two was almost comical: Seonghwa keeping his distance but a watchful eye while Hongjoong saddled up close without a care in the world as he set up his lunch and dug in without a word.

“Make yourself comfortable I guess.” You mumbled, turning to your meal.

Hongjoong let out a pleased hum, cheeks full of food as he gave you both a thumbs up. Seonghwa replied with a scowl. “I guess I’ll do the talking.”

You just shrugged, focusing on your food just as Hongjoong was.

“For starters, we’ll be increasing your access to our files. We’ll be assigning you the Green Vipers which San is the most familiar with. We want you to familiarize yourself with all the information we have available and run it all by San. When he believes you’re ready, we’ll pull you fully on the case.” Seonghwa sipped on his drink, which you believed was some strawberry type if the pink coloring was anything to go by. You were still trying to wrap your head around the news that they were not only giving you access but letting you work a case. “What’s the catch?”

Hongjoong mumbled something with his mouth full of food before he was met with a glare from Seonghwa. He swallowed and then repeated himself. “Yeosang needs to install a security program on your laptop, and this is technically a test. The first time you do something to jeopardize the mission- you’re off of it and stuck at this desk with nothing to do until we can transfer you out.” He chased the food with his drink before turning to you fully. “Do well, and we’ll start you in the field where the real work happens here.”

It was hard to clamp down on the excitement that surged through you, well aware your eyes and posture lit up at the news.

“You're not just yanking my chain? I can stay?” You looked between the two, Hongjoong grinning with amusement while Seonghwa had a frown on his face but nodded. “Thank you!”

“Don't thank us yet, you have a lot to prove.” Seonghwa warned, finally digging into his food. “And we aren't going easy on you.”

“I told you I like the challenge.” You pointed at him, then looked at them each. “I know you have your reasons for not trusting me, a lot of the work you do is secretive and it's years of progress. I don't plan on undoing that, I have an idea of how bad these mafia groups are.” Some of the articles you had found during your solo research had been stomach churning. 

Hongjoong paused in his eating, nodding. “Definitely a firecracker, but I like that.”

“Captain, please don't flirt with the newbie.”

“Why not? Flirting is harmless.”

You rolled your eyes but bit back a smirk. “You're the smallest one here, I'll pass.”

“Oh? Size matters to you? I thought you liked a challenge.”

Now you did smirk. “Really? And you're a challenge?”

“I'm good at all positions, so you tell me.”

“Oh my God you two.” Pinching the bridge of his nose, Seonghwa shook his head. “I don't need this, I'm barely holding this unit together as is- can we not chase tail?”

Hongjoong pouted out his pretty lips, batting his lashes at Seonghwa. “Why not? All work and no play makes Captain a dull boy.”

“Talk about an old married couple damn.” You laughed, grinning at the two of them.

The glare they each gave you was identical. “We aren't.”

“Mhmm sure.”

“Back to the point-” Hongjoong started.

“There was no point, drop it.”

“No point yet, don't ruin my fun Hwa.”

“Please-” 

You decided to let the two bicker, watching them as you ate. This was a stark contrast to the Vice-Captain you had met before, a good portion of his icy demeanor had melted with his Captain’s partial approval. Despite his disapproving view of the Captain's current behavior, you believed that his loyalty was unbreakable.

You thought you had that once. With that thought entering your mind, you set your drink down and cleared your throat. “Was there anything else the two of you needed?”

They stopped mid bicker and turned to you, noticing your drop in mood. Seonghwa straightened, back to business. “No, I'll inform Yeosang and San to come over so you can get started on that. You can head home when San says and we'll see you Monday.” Gathering up his things he moved around the desk. “Come on Captain.” Like a mother he started picking up the mess his Captain made.

Hongjoong didn't move though, instead fixing you with an intense stare. “I do have one question actually-”

“I'll see if I can answer it.”

Hongjoong stood when nudged, instead holding up the picture of your old unit Christmas party. “Which one were you dating or sleeping with?”

First you had no idea when he had found the hidden photo as you had been right next to him the whole time. Second, his question filled you with so much fury that you surged to your feet. “The fuck?”

Hongjoong shrugged nonchalantly, setting it down. “Mmm so I was right-”

“No! None of them! They were my friends and colleagues- I didn't do anything with them.”

“Doesn't mean feelings didn't blossom.” As you glared he just grabbed the stool and moved to follow Seonghwa. “I'm not going to judge you for it, how hypocritical of me after I was clearly flirting? Relationships are something the team needs to know about, in or out of the Precinct.”

Your fire lowered to a simmer, taking a deep breath to calm yourself further. “Because they could get compromised?” You had to remember just how dangerous this unit was compared to your old one.

He blinked a few times before nodding, giving a thumbs up. “Yep, that's the reason. If it happens just let us know. Man, woman, multiple- we don't care but we do have to know.” 

“Multiple?” You squeaked out, flabbergasted as he just chuckled.

“Mhmm- we'll send San and Yeosang over, firecracker.” With the change in subject he left, leaving you too stunned to speak.

You didn't like him poking around in your personal life but you hadn't lied. Warily you picked up the picture, eyes scanning the familiar faces and softening on more than one. Multiple? That was something your old unit might have found shameful, one of many reasons your now hurt feelings were never verbalized.

That was in the past now, you just wanted to focus on the now and get through this. Stay a detective, feel like you were making a difference again, and do it right this time.

San came down the hall first, a smile on his face as he took Seonghwa's spot and leaned on the counter. “So I heard the news, you're my temporary partner?”

“Temporary?” You had fixed your desk in that short time and gathered your wits about you. 

He nodded. “Correction, more like you are under my wing. I think you'll do just fine but for starters, give me a run down of what you know.”

That you could do.

“The city is basically split in half by older, traditional Mafia and new gangs-” You started off, pulling your laptop open and looking for your notes. “The southern part of the city has always been smaller gangs, which I think the three big organizations profited off of their turf wars. That was until about a decade ago when things changed and the number of gangs lessened while their power grew. Now there are 3 major ones that, while they don't match the power of the bigger 3, they hold enough power in the city to be a threat.”

“You got all this on your own? Impressive.” He whistled appreciatively, looking over your notes. “And just from looking online?”

You shook your head. “I called in a few favors and asked some colleagues.”

“Alright let me quiz you- what are the names of the big 6?”

“The White Guardians, Red Wolves, and Golden Circle are the big 3; the others are Blue Goblins, Green Vipers, and finally the Black Pirates. They can usually be identified by some color or accessories while more important players get tattoos.” 

As if your early troubles were nonexistent, you were about to throw yourself into a tangent explaining each of them when Yeosang cleared his throat. Clenching your jaw, you just silently handed your laptop over before he asked.

“I can do it here.” Stepping behind the desk and effectively caging you in, he plugged in a flash drive and went right to work. Cornered on all sides, you pressed back into the corner to be further from Yeosang, still stinging from his earlier comments. 

“You were saying?” San urged as if sensing your distress.

Tearing your eyes off of Yeosang you looked back over to San. “The big 6- right. I can give you territorial layout as well as their main operations. It's just a rough outline, since I don't have access to your files yet, but it was the only start I could think of.”

Once more he whistled appreciatively, grinning to the point you could admire his dimples a bit more. “That's still impressive. We gave you a hostile work environment and limited resources and you deduced that much from this desk?”

You could feel the tips of your ears burning but paid no mind to it. “It's really just basic knowledge that any of the members of these gangs would know, you don't need to show praise for something so simple.”

“Mmm true. Well, enlighten me anyways. The White Guardians, what do you know?”

“They're the most secretive of the big 3, only mentioned by other gangs who had dealt with them. Not much is known by them but anytime one of their members or their sub-unit, The Silver Dogs, get in trouble with the law, everything seems to get wiped clean. All that's known for sure is their territory is the northwest where crime levels are low. I would suspect they mostly likely have law-” You stopped yourself, realizing you were just about to divulge too much information.

But San was watching you with intent, motioning for you to continue.

However when you were about to relent, the deep voice next to you reminded you that the two of you weren't alone. “They most likely have the largest amount of dirty law officials, cops, judges and congressmen in their pocket. Right?”

You looked over at him, nodding slowly. “I kept that out of my notes though…”

“I didn't have to read them to know. We assumed the same. They will be the hardest to take down- if we can at all.” He went back to your laptop, messing with some download screen with a quick moving bar under a bunch of code.

Your shoulders slumped at that admission. “If you can't completely eradicate the criminal organizations, what goal do you have?”

“Lessening it. Crime is never going to go away, there will always be people who play by their rules and corrupt others- our job is to prevent as much damage by those groups as possible and diminish what we can.” San's tone was softer than before, as if urging you to have some hope.

You wanted to. “I see-”

“Onto the next one- The Red Wolves.” He prompted.

Clearing your throat you went on another tangent. “The Red Wolves are Northeast along the river. Out of all the organizations they have the dirtiest hands and some of the most ruthless. Crimes of human trafficking, and prostitution rings as well as the most recorded crimes committed by minors and to minors. They have the biggest feud with the White Guardians who, according to some Red Wolves, have been interfering with their work for years now. They are also the only gang that doesn't go through the Black Pirates for access to transportation by water considering they have territory of half the river. What really makes them fierce is their hitman unit the Crimson hounds. Whatever their tactics, it's enough to keep the others from attempting to interfere.”

“Again- I'm really impressed. Now the last one, the Golden Circle.”

“Center city and the oldest of the three. Most likely composed of corporations that use the Golden Circle as their cover for illegal activities. Their main motivator seems to be profit by any means stemming two sub groups: The Pink Boas and Gray Bones. The Boas are a believed-to-be all female group that handles underground brothels and club life in downtown. The Gray Bones are their equivalent of the Hounds, their hitman group. Out of the three mafia families, this is the only one that's been hit by the newer gangs.”

“Oh? Why do you think that?”

“Territory massacre in the west between them and the Blue Goblins. The Goblins won,  gaining access to downtown enough to spread out their drug distribution. They are the most power hungry, even using minors. They have a lot of younger members, runaways and troubled kids from the slums, so they feel as if they have something to prove and nothing to lose.”

Yeosang slams your laptop shut suddenly, spooking you out of your rant that you might have been getting too passionate about. “How do you know?”

“Excuse me?”

“How have you gathered information like that? From this desk?” He was staring you down with his jaw clenched, leaving you perplexed.

You narrowed your eyes in response. “Because I remember quite a few of the names that came up- they were kids I had to arrest, that we had to charge and interrogate and send off to Juvie. So I knew some of them.” You crossed your arms over your chest. “Or did you forget that and just want to assume I'm involved?” The sneer came out from habit but it was too late to take back now. 

Yeosang sighed, pushing the laptop towards you. “I know your file inside and out; you're too impulsive for it. Although you act like that… like you have nothing to lose and everything to prove.”

You lifted a brow, stepping closer. “So what if I do? Do you think it makes me any less of a detective?”

“Of course we don't-”

“I wasn't asking you, San.” You winced as you said it. “Shit I'm-”

“No no it's okay.” San stood up straight, avoiding your eyes. 

“I'm done here so I'll be leaving.” Yeosang said instead, making a hasty retreat and leaving you with a bad taste in your mouth.

Swallowing hard, you leaned on the desk to try and capture his eyes with yours. “San? Are you pouting?”

“No-” He most definitely was. “Okay maybe. I don't know how they can stand it when you snap at them, it wounds me.” He put a hand over his chest, effectively lifting some of the tension.

“It was a reflex, I'm sorry.”

“Hmmm…. Apology accepted. Now, where were we?” He flashed a charming smile that disarmed you and had you scrambling for your train of thought. 

Already Yeosang was forgotten again and so were his words. At least for now.

Taglist (form): @mingsolo | @wowie-hockey | @crispybaguettes | @tiny-apocalypse | @philijack | @lelaleleb | @idfkeddieishot | @isiloiale | @candypop1611 | @vannabanana1995  | @piratequeen-queenofgames | @starstruckforyou | @minheeskitten | @amphiroxx  | @cloudysannie | @fire-and-flame | @sugarnspice630 | @hongjoongswifefr | @sanhwalvr | @plutoneu | @auroreen | @sousydive |  @fatalt | @asteroidshowers | @Bts-army380 |

[veeveex3]

Sleepover with the Freshmen (+ Ortho)

idk I just think it'd be cute to see all the freshmen + yuu and grim have a litol slumber party, a slumbie if you will (also fun(?) fact: I've never had a slumber party before so idk why I'm making this lolol)

Time at Night Raven College is fun: you get to do alchemy, learn about history and subjects that aren't from your world, and most important of all, you got to make cool new friends! However, being that NRC is a school, it does get pretty stressful. So to cope with all the work you have on top of the work that Crowley dumps onto you, you decide to host a sleepover with all of your friends from your grade!

NRC Prefect: Hey, are you guys busy this weekend?

xXAce42069Xx: nah not rly y?

DeuceCaboose: Didn't you say we were gonna study over the weekend???

xXAce42069Xx: eh we can study after class on a weekday lol

Jack H.: You wanna do anything over the weekend prefect?

Epel: I can ask Vil if I can come over if we're gonna do a group study

NRC Prefect: I was thinking more we can just have a slumber party or something...

0RTH0 (⁠｡⁠•̀⁠ᴗ⁠-⁠)⁠✧: That sounds like fun! (⁠人⁠*⁠´⁠∀⁠｀⁠)⁠｡⁠*ﾟ⁠+

Sebek Zigvolt: I propose that we instead focus on our studies instead of shirking them for a "slumber party".

xXAce42069Xx: lmaooooo whyd you say it like that

Sebek Zigvolt: I haven't a clue what you mean, Ace.

DeuceCaboose: Have you ever been to a slumber party Sebek?

Sebek Zigvolt: No, but I vaguely know of them. That's not the point, though!

0RTH0 (⁠｡⁠•̀⁠ᴗ⁠-⁠)⁠✧: Now that I think about it, I don't remember having a sleepover before either! (⁠･⁠o⁠･⁠;⁠)⁠ 

Epel: I've had a couple before. They're a whole buncha fun!

Jack H.: ^ Plus if we're hanging out over the whole weekend, we can also use this time to study too

xXAce42069Xx: boring... why cant we just have a slumber party or whatever??

DeuceCaboose: Well we need to study at some point yknow

NRC Prefect: Yeah, I like that idea!

Nrc Prefect: So, is Ace the only one against this?

DeuceCaboose: Yeah

Jack H.: Probably

Epel: Yup

0RTH0 (⁠｡⁠•̀⁠ᴗ⁠-⁠)⁠✧: It appears so. (⁠*⁠´⁠ω⁠｀⁠*⁠)

Sebek Zigvolt: As long as we schedule time for our academics, I don't have much issue.

NRC Prefect: So Ace, are you with us or not?

xXAce42069Xx: fine... ig so

NRC Prefect: Great, see you guys then!

Ace Trappola:

He mainly came along so that he wouldn't have to study at Heartslabyul with Riddle

And also to spend time with his best friends but he'd never admit that

Cater lends him a couple card games so that you all can play during the sleepover

Other than that, he doesn't bring much else other than his pajamas, sleeping bag, phone, and homework (forced to bring)

His pajamas consist of a white t-shirt and some heart patterned pants

Doesn't wear socks to bed

Once everyone's in their pajamas, Ace immediately tries to distract everyone from their work

He tries to start a bunch of card games, asks for more snacks, and is the one to start a pillow fight

Once the next day comes though, everyone ignores him so they can get their work done, all to varying degrees of success

Is used to sleeping up late so he's the last person to go to bed

Sleeps all sprawled out, accidentally kicking Deuce, who's right next to him

Deuce Spade:

Deuce is genuinely excited for this little sleepover

Not only does he get to do the studying he was planning on doing anyways, but he also gets to hangout with his friends and potentially learn a bit from them!

Definitely honor student behavior

Trey asks him to give you some cookies for you all to share, as a treat

In comparison to Ace, Deuce over packs rather than under packing, likely since he's basically packing for the two of them

Deuce's pajamas are a set with a cotton shirt and shorts, both with spade patterns

Wears fuzzy navy blue socks his mom got him (won't say this in front of Ace in fear of being teased)

Deuce tries to balance his work time and fun time, but gets easily swept up in whatever shenanigans Ace is pulling

Accidentally throws a pillow too hard and ends up knocking a painting off the wall (in which he apologizes for after)

Like Ace, he's used to staying up late but tries to go to bed at a reasonable hour

Sleeps on his tummy and occasionally kicks too, mainly because Ace keeps kicking back

Jack Howl:

He's had a couple slumber parties in his youth and is honestly glad to have another with his new friends

Also wouldn't admit to it

Leona gives him some money just in case you all decide to order dinner for the sleepover

With the exception of the dinner money and some protein powder packets, he packs pretty light, only taking what he needs like toiletries and his homework

Jack wears a dark green tank top with a wolf design on the back and some striped shorts as pajamas

Also doesn't wear socks to bed but at least he covers his feet

Tries to get his work done before doing anything fun, which is hard considering he goes to bed really early

So instead he just spends the night having fun and promises to work extra hard the next day

Gets pretty sleepy from staying up past his bed time, being the first to go to sleep if it wasn't for Sebek

Sleeps curled up holding his tail and tries to hide it under his blanket

Epel Felmier:

Every month, Epel, Vil, and Rook have their own little spa day, so Epel just sees this as a less intense spa day (don't ask how a spa day can be intense they just are for Epel)

Vil gave him a couple scented tea lights to give out as thank you gifts for everyone while Rook gave a couple fashion magazines to read during the sleepover

In addition to these gifts, Epel, reluctantly, packs a lot more than he usually would due to all of the toiletries and nutrition supplements he has to take

Epel's pajamas are a light purple, fuzzy long sleeved set with has apples on the front of the shirt and on the pants pockets

Not only does Epel have matching fuzzy purple socks, he also has a fuzzy eye mask too, courtesy of Vil

More prone to playing and getting off task than some of the other boys

Has a lot of fun during the pillow fight even though he's just smacking people with a pillow

Stays up until all of the fun dies down and then tucks himself into bed

Sleeps on his side, occasionally tossing and turning

Ortho Shroud:

Given he's a robot, he thought he wouldn't be able to participate in the sleepover unlike his peers

Luckily, his friends still wanna have fun with him regardless and obviously let him come

Idia gave him a board game to play so that him and his friends don't get board (teehee)

Given that Ortho is incredibly complex, he has to pack pretty heavily for things such as his charger and any spart parts he may need

He can't really wear pajamas but has a dark blue blanket Idia made for him with small light blue flames

Probably sets aside his feet when sleeping so that they take up less space

Ortho is a good student, so he starts studying pretty quickly to get it out of the way

After that, he's able to play with his friends and launch pillows at them (gently of course)

Has a set bedtime that he has to shut down by, but since Idia stays up really late, that bedtime is also pretty late into the night

He sleeps straight on his back, using his wireless charger pad as a pillow and covering himself with his blanket

Sebek Zigvolt:

Sebek honestly isn't used to being apart from Malleus and gets embarrassingly anxious when he's apart from him and Lilia

However, the both of them encouraged him to socialize and spend time with people his age other than Silver

Malleus give him a novel to read before bed just in case he has trouble sleeping Lilia also gave him some food to share but Silver luckily took care of that

Given how overly cautious he is, Sebek over packs a lot, bringing a lot of comfort items as well as a lot more toiletries than he needs

Sebek wears very classic button up pajamas with a small lighting bolt pattern on them

Wears normal socks to bed and like Epel, has a matching eye mask with a little night cap too

The most reluctant to slack off, insisting to use this time to further their academic and magical studies

However, he gets jealous from all the fun everyone else is having and joins in under the excuse that he was already distracted

He won't admit it, but he really enjoys spending bonding time with his friends

Like Jack, he also has an early bedtime and sticks to it more than Jack does, mainly out of habit and sleepiness

He sleeps on his back holding his blanket while sleep talking surprisingly quietly

Bonus Grim!:

Didn't ask to be a part of the slumber party nor was he invited, but came anyways since the two of you are basically a buy one, get one free special

Since he's a cat monster, he doesn't wear any jammies but he does have a little blankie he sleeps with every night

You have to move him out of the living room so that everyone can get their fair share of snacks and dinner

Tries to get involved in the pillow fight but he has little fucking kitty arms so he can't really throw lol

Cuddles next to you with his blankie to sleep (which would be nice if he didn't snore so loud)

Wakes you up in the middle of the night for a sippy of water too

[sailxrmxrs]

it has been too peaceful around here. we need some angst to spice things up. specifically headcanons as to how the bloomic lis plus onion would react to mc wanting to break up with them. yes i am including the onion stealer bc i lov him a lot okay. he is not exempt from the pain. anyway this is going to be as angsty as i can get, which admittedly isn't that sad bc i am weak but it's still going to HURT. dw we'll get back to the regularly scheduled fluff shortly but first, break up angst.

♡ nightowl ♡

Nightowl is a consistent ray of sunshine and positive light in your relationship. He's always ready for some kind of adventure or to spend hours by your side. And you adore that part of him, he's extroversion incarnate and brings out a whole new side out of you. The relationship is sweet and loving, filled with all kinds of memories to cherish for the months to come. But then as time goes on, Nightowl's jealous tendencies start to shine through. He never goes too far with it, but there's a bitterness that lingers. A darkness that slowly builds in him, a swirling insecurity that threatens to bubble up and escape his throat. He hates that dark pit inside but he can't fight it, can't fully cut it off. And he knows it's only going to continue building until his body can't handle it anymore and everything comes crashing down around him. But before that can happen, you're calling him to go for a walk together so you can talk about something. Nightowl doesn't think much of it, but then he sees you and knows something's off. Something's wrong. And you're looking guilty, as though you're about to do something that'll hurt. And it does. Nightowl can't think of anything other than the immense pain that he's lost you. His soul was so blackened and infested that he finally drove you off. He's been told that he could be too much but you always assured him that wasn't true at all. Was all that a lie? Was Nightowl really just someone undeserving of true, unadulterated love? He doesn't even try to hold back the tears, letting them cascade in thick droplets down his cheek. He's mumbling a goodbye, voice cracking as he turns to leave you, knowing this is the end.

♡ quest ♡

Being in a relationship with Quest was easy. It was comfortable. Arguments were few and far between, with little cause for concern. At first that had been a welcome change from past experiences to be with someone so transparent and open about themselves. But over time it became wildly apparent how self-sacrificial he could be. Quest would relinquish so easily to avoid conflict, whether with you or someone else. While you'd initially thought he was just a passive person, you soon learnt that Quest simply gave up in the face of conflict. And while that fact did not initially hinder your relationship, slowly over time you felt as though you fighting a losing battle. Any disagreement was swept under the rug instead of talked over. All your grievances were met with unrelenting positivity and acceptance that it just felt like you weren't being heard in the way you needed to be. Over time it grated you down until one last disagreement came about. It wasn't anything particularly serious, but Quest's actions were as predictable as always. Feeling exasperated and tired of the same old conversations, you finally broached it to Quest. Of course, the cycle continued and it finally brought about the breaking point. You were done with all of this, exasperated and in need of a break. Quest couldn't quite believe what was happening and yet it also felt like a long time coming too. He'd been wondering when you'd finally grow tired of him. Finally realised you could do better. He thought that maybe if he let go of his past and took steps to being less intimidating, less imposing, just less then maybe he could find someone who would love him wholeheartedly. But, of course, he had been wrong to believe he deserved that and so now his life was to return to its original monotony, tinged with resentment for who he once was all those years ago.

♡ xyx ♡

In the early days of your relationship, Xyx had expressed a desire to take things a little slower. He'd later come to tell you exactly why that was—a really nasty breakup had left an invisible scar that would never truly heal no matter how much love you poured into it. Xyx had taken a while to fully open up and feel comfortable being vulnerable again, but now that he could? Oh, the freedom it granted him was euphoric. He felt like a whole person again, finally healing after months of stewing in that self-hatred and blame for how his previous relationship ended. All because you came along and wedged yourself in his heart and refused to leave. But Xyx didn't hate it, in fact I loved the person he had become with you and loved the ways he changed over the span of your relationship. Obviously there were ups and downs but that was to be expected in any relationship. What mattered most to him was that he could tell this was a relationship built on mutual respect and care for the other. As long as that remained, Xyx was content with you, was entirely smitten and in love. But when you texted him one day during his lunch break stating that you needed to talk, he felt an overbearing sense of dread collecting in the pit of his stomach. He knew where this was going. Knew exactly what was about to happen. So he shut down, shut off, and repressed it all. He was right back to square one, pushing away those who tried to get close. He sent a scathing reply and turned his phone off, not caring what you had to say. Storming out of the office building, he made a beeline for his motorbike full of dangerous intent and disregard for himself.

♡ nakedtoaster ♡

Toast would be able to process a breakup the easiest out of everyone. He's very in tune with his emotions and knows the best ways to deal with bad news. In past relationships he's been able to move on fairly quick, accepting that it had run its course and they just weren't the same people anymore. Sure it's sad but it's also a fact of life. That said, whenever Toast thinks about their relationship with you it's a different matter. They've known for a while just how deep those emotions ran, and that he cared for you and loved you more than any of those past relationships put together. Marriage is not something that's necessarily crossed Toast's mind before, but when he looks at you sitting across from him on the sofa he thinks maybe having a small wedding to celebrate your love would be nice. Nothing crazy nor extravagant, but just big enough to celebrate with the other server members and maybe some close relatives there too. Then one afternoon you're meeting up to grab coffee, and Toast has been thinking all day if he should maybe bring up the topic to gauge your thoughts on it. But those thoughts are pushed far, far to the back of their mind when you express your desire to break up. He's speechless, mouth agape as he stares at the coffee sitting between his hands. Suddenly it makes sense why you didn't order anything. You're explaining how you feel but Toast can barely hear it, their ears blocking out the devastating news you've brought upon him. He cuts you off, telling you to just get this over with and leave. They're not shouting, but you've never heard him speak with such venom before. Once you're gone, Toast sits back in their seat and sighs. They don't feel sad or angry, just empty. So, so empty. Where their heart used to be is now an expanse of oblivion—no more than an empty void of who they had been no less than five minutes ago.

♡ onionthief ♡

Onion thinks he can handle negative emotions well. He's had his fair share of tribulations and relationship struggles over the years that it's hardly something new for him. But then he met you and suddenly his entire world view shifted. Whereas before he was somewhat jaded or nonchalant regarding romantic relationships, he now cannot imagine a life without you in it. You brought a whole new light into his existence that Onion hadn't realised just how much he needed. He didn't have enough extremities on his body to count the number of times he's dreamed about a future with you: buying a house together, getting married, having kids. He wants all of that with you and knows just how perfectly the two of you fit together, like jigsaw pieces that slot together so easily it's nigh on impossible to imagine a time you weren't an entwined pair. And so, when that fateful day comes, Onion feels his entire world come crashing down around him. That once picture perfect jigsaw has splintered beyond repair; there's no fixing what has been broken ten times over, after all. His entire plan for your future has been torn to shreds in front of him and he can barely think, can barely process exactly what's going on. All he knows is that he needs to get out of here before he says something he'll regret. The emotions don't fully hit until night when he's laying in bed alone. Despite his own presence there, without you it's cold. Unforgiving. It's that unshaking feeling that something is missing that sets off the tears. And when Onion wakes up in the morning, his eyes are sore and pillow still damp from where he'd cried himself to sleep. This was going to be hard, and he wasn't sure how he was to pull himself through it with you by his side. But he no longer had a choice. He was alone once more, and he had to live with that fact for the foreseeable future.

[apocalypticavolition]

Let's (re)Read The Eye of the Worldl! Chapter 6: The Westwood

Welcome to another chapter of my reread of The Wheel of Time, which can and will spoil everything shamelessly. For example, Rosebud was the sled that Tam used to get down from Dragonmount after saving Rand from his real father, Darth Vader! If that bothers you, not only should you run away, but you should definitely consider blocking tags like "wheel of time spoilers" and "wot spoilers", which I'm using and other good people are using too!

In the moonlight Rand could not really see what he was doing, but Tam’s wound seemed to be only a shallow gash along the ribs, no longer than the palm of his hand. He shook his head in disbelief. He had seen his father take more of an injury than that and not even stop work except to wash it off.

Part of the downside with Rand being very sheltered is that it never occurs to him the armies of evil might have more to their swords than just the blades. Even without getting into the actual magic that I believe they use, there could easily be poisons involved. Likely the Wheel ensured Tam got fucked like this as much to hurry Rand's education as anything else.

Abruptly he realized he was holding the untied ends of the bandage in motionless hands. Frozen like a rabbit that’s seen a hawk’s shadow, he thought scornfully.

Again Rand has a moment where he goes into shock at the stresses he's under, which is a nicely realistic touch.

“Mother wants you to be quiet,” Rand whispered. He paused to clear his throat of a sudden tightness. She had had gentle hands; he remembered that much. “Kari wants you to be quiet. Here. Drink.”

At the same time, we get lots of little ways that Rand is pretty good in emergencies once he can power through his hang-ups. He refuses to worry about things he can't fix and is resourceful in keeping Tam from giving them away in the midst of his fever.

Belt and sheath and sword together only weighed a few pounds, but when he sheathed the blade it seemed to drag at him like a great weight.

It's the genetic memory of being so fiercely anti-sword, obviously. You're lucky you didn't throw up when you practiced waving it around last chapter, Rand, let alone when you actually killed something with it. (And then he went on to use his sword as an axe in a positive way, which really clashes both with the Aiel perspective and Perrin's whole thing. Being the chosen one has its perks!)

He had to assume the Trollocs were still hunting them, and sooner or later they would realize the two had set off for the village. That was the most likely place to go, and the Quarry Road the most likely route.

Considering the fandom jokes about the Wondergirls constantly and deliberately stepping into traps that they know are there, let the record show that it's Rand who first goes, "Yeah this is obviously what my enemies would expect but I'm gonna hafta do it anyway."

He muttered to himself, angry at not taking some food at the farm.

This probably worked out for the best. The food would be no good to Tam and the delay for Rand to eat (since he certainly couldn't drag his dad and munch at the same time) would only make him harder to heal once they get there. Plus there's no guarantee that the Trollocs left any food or that the sniffers wouldn't be able to find Rand quicker with extra scent.

Also the poor boy thinks there's even the slightest chance of having lamb stew when he gets to the inn and I just feel so bad for him that his expectations have so thoroughly and unkindly divorced from reality.

“They came over the Dragonwall like a flood,” Tam said suddenly, in a strong, angry voice, “and washed the land with blood. How many died for Laman’s sin?”

Like Rand, I assumed on my first read that Tam was referring to Trollocs and that he'd gotten his sword fighting Shadowspawn despite having said he'd never fought them. Boy was I wrong.

“They called them savages,” Tam said urgently. “The fools said they could be swept aside like rubbish. How many battles lost, how many cities burned, before they faced the truth? Before the nations stood together against them?”

While the Vietcong did not - to my knowledge, but I wasn't alive at the time - end up cutting a bloody swathe across any continent leaving only devastation in their wake, I can't help but feel that this is something that came to Jordan from having to be in a land of so-called savages and deal with the fact that by and large they weren't. Really, the Aiel are both sides of the War rolled into one, with the devastation they left behind them not at all dissimilar to how the US armed forces like to go about things.

Behind the dark rider came nightmare forms with horns and muzzles and beaks, Trollocs in a double file, all in steps, boots and hooves striking the ground at the same instant as if obeying a single mind.

Considering all the various details we have about Trollocs and the Myrdraal (specifically, if you don't know, that Fades occur in Trolloc stock at the same rate that channelers occur in uncorrupted humans), I suppose we should count the Shadow as having its own answer to the Problem of Channelers: pervert both magic user and mundane to the point where mind control of the latter is second nature to the former. This bumps everyone except the Seanchan up a slot in the rankings, relatively speaking, and boy does it say a LOT about the Seanchan that their system is really only the Shadow's system pointed the other way around.

Exactly opposite Rand the horse stopped again, the shadowed opening of the hood turning toward where he crouched above his father.

In our grand LotR rip-off analysis, this is the moment when the Nazgul nearly comes upon the four hobbits on the road.

He did not care any more about why the Trollocs had come. If he never found out why, that would be fine, just as long as it was all ended.

Well Rand, that's going to be a problem, because they're pretty obviously looking for you or Tam in particular and they're still out there. You don't have video games to teach you that threats stop existing once you get far enough away from them, so where are you getting this crazy idea that you just have to get to town and you'll be safe? The riders went to town!

Frankly, I don't even think this is actually stupidity. I think he's well aware that something is up and is already turning to denial to get through it.

“They never make peace. Never. But they brought a sapling, as a sign of peace. Five hundred years it grew. Five hundred years of peace with those who make no peace with strangers. Why did he cut it down? Why? Blood was the price for Avendoraldera. Blood the price for Laman’s pride.”

Well Tam, when you get to be very rich and important your brain turns into a lump that is 95% pure evil and 5% feces, so the idea that you shouldn't be allowed to do anything you please loses all meaning until reality - or the Aiel - smacks you in the face with your bad assumptions.

The Tree of Life was supposed to have all sorts of miraculous qualities, but none of the stories mentioned any sapling, or any “they.” There was only the one, and that belonged to the Green Man.

Huh, guess that my statement that magic stories tended to be universally true wasn't quite on the money. Then again though, why isn't this something Rand knows? Five hundred years is plenty of time for the story to spread around the subcontinent, and something as wondrous as a cutting of the Tree of Life is exactly the sort of thing that gets stories going - you'd think there'd be tales of pilgrimages to it or comedies about people trying to steal their own cuttings or something.

It would make more sense if Rand knew about Cairhien having the tree and was completely ignorant it had ever been cut down because the Aiel War had no lasting impact on the Two Rivers culture and so it had never come up.

(The Doylist answer of course is that it's just an excuse to foreshadow the Green Man again, but I'm hoping some Watsons will crawl out of the woodwork.)

Next he might actually meet the Green Man, or an Ogier giant, or a wild, black-veiled Aielman.

Two out of three (as far as this book goes) isn't bad. And he is an Aielman, so that counts for something.

Their women fight alongside the men, sometimes, but why they had let her come, I don’t . . .

She wasn't pregnant until she was over the Wall for a few years, and then she refused to go back, which... I guess the Aiel were too consumed by revenge to care? They tend to be pretty good about making people obey their customs. It's one of those things that's best not to get too worked up over, but I have to say that Third Agers need to find a better balance in dealing with the needs and limitations of pregnant women than the extremes of "Yeah come join us on our jihad to kill your uncle-in-law, you can go into labor whenever, wherever," and "You're ten days pregnant, are you sure you should be getting out of bed before the babies are born?"

But he could not stop the echo in the back of his mind. He’s my father. It was just a fever-dream. He’s my father. It was just a fever-dream. Light, who am I?

Rand again turns to denial to deal with his troubles, which is a tool he will cling to so long that Sanderson ends up being the guy to cure him of it. Of course, already he's hit with the limits of denial: there's really no way for Tam to be coherent enough to ramble the way he is and also be so far gone as to be making up adoption scenarios. But getting to be consumed by this turmoil means he can avoid thinking about how obvious it is that the Shadowspawn wanted something from his family in particular, and that's good enough for him right now. Heck, it's really going to be his modus operandi going forward: let each new trauma completely bury the old one without ever having to process it. It's going to be a bumpy ride.

Short chapter today, but tomorrow's will be a bit longer! We'll see Rand get Out of the Woods, though sadly early forecasts are predicting a complete absence of lamb stew, unless the stew is a metaphor for the trouble our heroes are in and their innocence and naivety lets "lamb" be an appropriate metaphor for them!

[brainrot-buffet]

would you do hcs for vi knocking her siblings plus ekko out of bs they got themselves into and what kind of trouble that would be?

Ask cont.: (about vi helping the others out hcs: i'm talking about the modern au, sorry i forgot to mention, i love this au)

Vi saving her Siblings + Ekko (Modern AU)

If you're a student at Zaun Southern High, one of the first things you might know about Vi is that she's someone you do NOT wanna fuck with

Throughout elementary and middle school, Vi used to get into a lot of fights, and she almost always WON (She only stopped when she started football and had to keep a clean record)

Now the reason for constant brawling was not out of mere pettiness, it was to protect her siblings

And the person being the root of most their brawls was none other than Mylo

People used to bully him a lot for his appearance and lack of athleticism when they were younger, and it didn't help that Mylo had a tendency to talk back and piss off people even more

There were times he'd get himself into fights and be overpowered pretty easily, and before his bullies could do much damage, Vi would run in and sock them square in the jaw

It's a recurring trend throughout their childhood and teen years that Vi and Claggor come to Mylo's aid whenever he does or says something stupid

One of the most notable was when Mylo spray painted a giant middle finger on Coach Sevika's desk in her office. Mylo argued it was payback for making their gym class run so many laps around the track til most of them threw up their lunch

The four Vander siblings spent that entire afternoon trying not to get caught by a raging Coach Sevika stomping through the halls

They were almost caught until Ekko took one for the team and struck up a convo with the gym teacher, buying the others time to climb out the bathroom window

Ekko owed Vi due to her and the others always getting him out of trouble with people who picked on him

In his junior high years, Ekko was known as THE biggest nerd in his grade, possibly the whole school. As a 12 year old, this was made worse by the fact that he was just as cringy as any other middle schooler

Due to his small size, he was regularly shoved inside lockers and closets, whether on purpose or by accident. It wasn't uncommon for Vi to hear banging and cries for help coming from a locker she passes by in the hallway

Other times, Vi would have to hold onto Ekko from getting trampled over crowds when people rush to switch classes each period. There have been one too many times where the Vander Crew's walking to exit a pep rally and they lose Ekko amidst the chaos

It's normal to find Vi dangling him by the shirt just so he wouldn't get swept away, cutting through swarms of people as she delivers him to his next class

It may not look like it, but Claggor's also had his fair share of having to be saved by Vi

This usually rarely happens since he's the most mature out of the group, but there are times when he'd have a few slip ups here and there

One thing that causes these slip ups: When Claggor gets engrossed in assignments and school activities

It's especially during midterms and finals season when Claggor's responsibilities rack up and take a toll on his energy, and this causes him to be very tired throughout this time

One time, he stayed in after school to help put away some band instruments. He was so exhausted that he ended up falling asleep on a chair inside the room where you store the instruments

When Claggor woke up, it was almost 8pm and and he found the band room's door locked

His phone was overflowing with texts and missed calls from his siblings worriedly asking where he was. At that moment, he received a call from Vi, who sighed in relief when he told her he was just trapped inside the band room

This lead to Vi and Mylo sneaking into the school at night, with Mylo picking the door's lock open and the three slipping away into the city streets at night

Having Powder as a little sister is a lot of hard work

Nevertheless, Vi always had her back on EVERYTHING, from the people teasing her for being a weeb to causing yet another explosion when working on her science projects

There were times when the Vander family had their grocery run at Costco where Powder was left alone in line for the cash register, due to everyone leaving last minute to grab something to put in their cart (LMAO imagine tiny Powder pushing a very full and very large cart)

Powder's panicking and calling Vander and her siblings when it's almost their turn to pay, but to no avail since the wifi is shit at Costco

The only person she reaches is Mylo, who waves her off and tells her to just start piling their stuff onto the conveyor belt

Powder's little arms struggle to lift the giant pack of 5-dozen eggs from the cart, only for it to slip through her hands and splatter on the ground

The cashier didn't look too happy with her, as well as the people waiting in line behind her

It's at that moment when Powder's fearful eyes meet Vi's from across the warehouse floor

Vi flies through the crowds of grandmas and middle-aged parents, parkouring over boxes of produce to grab a new pack of eggs before sprinting her way to Powder's spot in line

It's like all of Vi's football training was meant for this moment

Vi reaches the cash register, eggs unscathed, and smoothly apologizes to the cashier for Powder

On their trip home, Powder tells her sister that she's probably some kind of hero in another universe, to which Vi shakes her head and gives the girl a tight hug

[agent-cupcake]

As a resident Claudefucker, I know am curious to know what our fave charming schemer is doing during this Mafia!AU. He'd look lovely in a suit.

~It was quite the headline when Godfrey Riegan died. The details are a little hazy, a little convenient, but people don't talk about that sort of thing. Car accidents are common. Tragic, but not unreasonable. There’s no reason to smear a man’s perfectly respectable political career for the sake of some sensational gossip.

~In the right circles, however, there was a huge uproar, questions about who was going to take over the Riegan family when the elderly boss Oswald died. The Riegan’s had been dominating Leicester for quite some time, but a lot of people began to predict that the Gloucester family was going to move in. They had powerful friends, it seemed. Friends with money, no less.

~Claude Riegan, grandson of Oswald, appeared out of nowhere just when he was needed. Stories of the lost daughter Tiana still circulated, sure, but there were still a lot of questions about Claude’s origins when nobody except Oswald were able to vouch for him. He obviously had military leadership experience—his skill with guns and ability to lead was just too excellent for any other explanation—but he dismissed the question out of hand. There’s no documentation of him, either, leading some to wonder if even his name was false. But Oswald said he was family, and that was that.

~Claude was quick to establish himself, in any case. Despite his cavalier attitude, his efficacy in overhauling the power dynamics of Leicester were profound.  

~He decided, first and foremost, that the way to win the people over was to invigorate the local culture, which had seen a sharp decline as a result of new laws that were unfavorable to business, Adrestia’s growing market monopolies, and the bad reputation of the red light district Ailell. This included some perfectly legitimate campaigning and some under the table type schemes. 

~The result was a flourishing Derdriu Street. While it lacks the prestige of Enbarr Square in Adrestia, it welcomes entertainment that would be considered too “low brow” like comedy, trendy new restaurants, and music venues. Even better, all of it is built on the recently cleaned up river. The Riegan family is involved in all of  it, of course. 

~Casino owner Claude. This exists solely to thirst but maybe it was preexisting and he took it over due to its poor management? If there’s going to be gambling anyway, it should be done right. The extra money’s not so bad, either. But, Claude lounging in a big leather chair in a dark blue blazer with gold brocade, his white shirt unbuttoned low enough to see enough his chest. Enough to make you drool. Enough that you’d definitely get caught staring and probably called out for it because he can’t help himself. Claude with his elbows on the arm rests and fingers folded in front of him as he considers you, gold rings winking because he’s just that ostentatious and appearances are important. Claude asking you how you feel about taking risks in a way that really feels like it has nothing to do with cards, staring at you with a friendly smile that doesn’t meet those calculating eyes—eyes that you know will pick up on every tell. 

~Claude also struck a deal with the Kupala Distillery. They’d been fighting to keep hold of their historic business for years, and Claude offered to help them with that. You know, not for free, but he’s good at making deals that leave everybody happy. 

~The second biggest thing he tackled was the drug trade. For the most part, no one family had ever had a complete handle on that market. The Goneril’s had a hold over the docks for years, but the Edmunds had been moving in and working with the Gloucester family to bolster their power. Distribution was scattered and hard to keep track of as it ultimately circulated wherever there was a profit to be made. Looking at it like this, Claude decided that the only way to fix things was to take control over all of it. In his line of work, shady things like the drug trade are impossible to avoid. At the very least, if he has control over it, he can ensure the product is clean and expel far more unsavory ventures.

~Through these escapades, Claude was able to make alliances with all of the major families. A lot of them had only remained loyal to the Gloucester family out of fear so as soon as they had an alternative, they bolted. This has an unfortunate side effect of revealing how his power is perceived. Every day is a balancing act for Claude. He allows each family to function as they please as long as they’re aware they do so at his mercy. It’s better to keep friends than to control enemies, but even that requires a delicate maneuvering of power.

~However, Claude likes the conflict. He enjoys the game and he especially enjoys winning the game. There’s a certain level of his excusing amorality for the sake of his family and Leicester, but there’s an equal part of him that understands his wrongdoings and deals with it separately. He wouldn’t hold to the naïve “ends justify the means” idea to excuse himself, but he would still argue that his actions have value and are even necessary. If it weren’t him, it would be somebody a lot worse than him. That’s probably something that would linger in the back of everybody’s minds whenever they shook his hand or paid their respects, whenever they began to think of how easy it would be to take him out. Fear, too. So far, Claude’s never done anything shockingly bad, only what was necessary. But with his power and intellect, it’s always a question of what he could do.

~If someone asked him that, Claude would smile that friendly smile and tell them that he would do anything to see his vision made real. Whether or not that’s true remains to be seen. 

~Luckily, Claude’s not alone! Hilda is the stereotypical crime family princess. She joined Claude because he offered her freedom from the overbearing control of her father and brother. Her skill in manipulating everybody around her combined with her reputation as a ditzy rich girl makes her fantastic at gathering information, assuming Claude can get her to do so. But, as long as he’s not being too forceful, she’s surprisingly motivated to weave her way through social circles and charm everyone. Although she would never say it, the order he brought to Leicester, not to mention the entertainment, made everything a lot better for her and her family. Plus, she likes being useful after spending her entire life watching Holst give his heart and soul to family while she did nothing. Ultimately, the information she provides is essential and her relationship with Claude is one of the few either have that’s built on trust, respect, and loyalty. That said, sometimes even Claude gets a little shiver as he watches how easily Hilda can manipulate people.  

~Lorenz was one of Claude’s most disdainful detractors, although a part of that was jealousy. Claude just swept in and did things that Lorenz had been waiting and planning to do once he became the head of the Gloucester family. Even after being on the receiving ends of such vicious attacks, once Claude undeniably had the upper hand in Leicester, he went behind the Gloucester boss’s back to Lorenz and told him that they were going to be friends or enemies, it was Lorenz’s choice. Not threatening him, just pointing out that the fall of the Gloucester family was inevitable under his father’s leadership and that Lorenz didn’t have to suffer for his father’s sins. Probably over mimosas and brunch. Lorenz is proud and has no appreciation for Claude, but he’s not stupid. After they worked out their disagreements and more or less accepted each other, Lorenz and Claude became pretty close. Claude knows that having someone to openly and aggressively disagree with him isn’t a bad thing. Not only that, but Lorenz’s a solid ally with a better grasp on some of the things Claude has difficulty with due to not being a native. Lorenz is willing to admit that Claude is a good leader.

~Marianne is well educated in the realm of the law and political action. The reason the Edmund family saw such success despite their lesser status was because of her adopted father’s genius. which he made sure to share with Marianne. She is invaluable in aiding Claude on the perfectly legitimate side of his business, and helping him hide his tracks for the shady stuff. Raphael is the muscle. Lysithea is a computer genius. Being a sickly shut in with issues that only recently saw treatment, she’s on the Mr. Robot level of hacker mode activated. Ignatz is an architect which is useful since so much of Claude’s power is in the property and infrastructure. He also designed a lot of places to have some neat-o hidey holes. Claude loves buildings that have secrets. Leonie is manages a lot of the physical and pettier side of the work. If someone’s stirring up trouble, she’s likely to pay them a visit as a warning before Claude has to get involved. She used to be a mercenary but being on Claude’s payroll is a lot better of a gig.    

~As for the suits, one thing is very important. Claude would not, under any circumstances, wear something tight on his thighs. I actually kind of like the idea of him going for a 1980′s style modernized. In his post timeskip outfit, he’s already got a hint of that going on with how oversized his outfit looks. The 80′s (rightfully) gets a bad rep for fashion, but it’s also very iconic with those wide-collared suit jackets, matchy-matchy three piece suits, sportscoats with a fun patterned shirt underneath, open blazers, pleated pants with an oversized jacket, and—in particular—the trend of summer suits in shades of tan and cream with colored shirts underneath. Then, combine that with a pair of Ray-Ban Aviators and a topless convertible and you’ve got a distinctly recognizable mob boss who doubles as a devastating heartthrob. I’m not saying he’d do a 1:1 recreation, but you’d definitely see references to the fashion of the era in his outfits. He would wear oxfords or ankle boots. Whatever it was, they’d have to be comfortable. He also doesn’t shy away from jewelry. The earring, of course, and rings when he's feeling particularly decadent. When he’s wearing his shirts unbuttoned Claude could possibly wear a gold chain. I mean, what are you gonna say, no? That gold doesn’t look gorgeous against his skin? That it’s tacky? You’re talking to the man who wore quilted pants. Claude’s not afraid to stand out because he knows he will anyway, nor is he afraid to be seen as unfashionable because he doesn’t particularly care about trends. I also enjoy the idea of him emulating the 80′s as someone who didn’t grow up in a western culture and thus mainly saw things through the lens of movies. Whatever he wears, however, he would look very handsome.

[smutnug]

What Stays and What Fades Away

My first chapter with the amazing @wardsarefunctioning as beta! A thousand thousand thank yous.

Contains awkward flirting and Drunk!Hawke.

Chapter 27: Juliet

It had been a week since Tanner's abrupt departure, and Juliet still felt ill when she thought about the way things had ended. She chafed to be away in Crestwood, where Hawke was doubtless already waiting for them. 

But the Inquisition had become a large organisation, and large organisations seldom moved quickly. While Hawke could travel alone and in relative anonymity, Juliet's expeditions must be scouted, provisioned and planned to the smallest detail. So instead she was stuck here in Skyhold, surrounded by a thousand small reminders of her indiscretion. 

She sat at a table in the hall poring over a pile of documents that never seemed to get smaller: requisitions, reports, requests for the Inquisition's help from all over Southern Thedas. Scout Harding was already on the way to Crestwood, but she had left Juliet a map and pages covered in her small, neat handwriting: the location of the village and fort, a brief history of the place and its flooding during the blight, even a few credible rift sightings. A potential logging site? That would help in rebuilding - 

"Inquisitor?" The messenger gave a quick salute and handed her a roll of paper. "Plans for the mage tower, milady."

The mage tower. She waited until the man was gone before letting out a groan, burying her head in her hands. 

"Pining for your soldier, Freckles?" 

Juliet spun in her chair to glare at Varric. 

"Firstly," she said, "I'm not bloody pining . Secondly, can we pretend just for a minute that I have some kind of private life?" 

The dwarf threw up his hands. "Sorry, Inquisitor," he said, hopping up into the seat next to her. "You're one of the most important figures in Thedas right now. Definitely the most important in Skyhold. Your inner circle has at least three spies, and a mind-reading spirit boy." He patted her on the back. "Keeping secrets is hard."

She stared at him a moment longer, her lips pursed. "Thirdly -" 

"I'll change your names."

"Do not -" 

"And titles."

"Put this -" 

"And location."

"In a book," she finished. "Or I'll throw you to Cassandra."

"Oh, come on Freckles! It's got everything: deception, mistaken identity, star-crossed lovers…"

"I think you're reading a little more into it than actually happened."

"Of course I am. I'm a writer."

Conceding defeat, Juliet looked back to the documents spread out in front of her; the lines on the vellum seemed to blur and dance, Harding's meticulous text reduced to gibberish. She blinked hard, twice, but her eyes refused to cooperate. 

"Why not take a break?" Varric asked and added, too casually, "Take a walk in the garden."

She narrowed her eyes at him. "Why the garden, Varric?" 

"Why so suspicious, Freckles?" He grinned, hazel eyes glinting with mischief. "It's a beautiful day. The fresh air will do you good. See how your herbs are growing!" 

"I need to plan this…" she protested weakly. 

"Do you trust yourself to make good plans right now?" 

"Fine." She bundled up the documents, shoving them unceremoniously into a nugskin folder. "I'll go to the garden." In response to Varric's waggling eyebrows, she snapped, "but only because I've got no bloody place better to be."

With a smirk he propped his feet up on the table. "Enjoy the scenery, Inquisitor."

"Thin ice, Tethras," she shot back over her shoulder. 

It was close to midday, and she had to admit that the sunlight on her face and the smell of freshly-turned soil did much to clear her head. The air was fragrant with blooming herbs, all of which somehow seemed to thrive here despite the varying climates from which they had been plucked. She wished she could put down roots so easily.

Male laughter caught her attention; the voice was familiar, if not the sound. Beneath the gazebo a small table and two chairs were set up. Dorian faced the Commander over a chess board, hexagonal in the Northern style. The two men were too engrossed in the game to notice her approach and she took a moment to appreciate Cullen's relaxed posture, his easy demeanour as he rolled his eyes in response to Dorian's gentle ribbing. 

"Why do I even…" He finally saw her and broke off mid-sentence, half rising out of his chair. "Inquisitor."

Dorian flashed a charming smile in her direction before turning his attention back to Cullen. "Leaving, are you?" The mage's voice, much like his skin, was smooth as honey. "Does this mean I win?" 

It was jarring to see the Commander so comfortable in the presence of Dorian, of all people. Despite his wit and charm, or perhaps because of it, he didn't always rub people the right way. Plus he was a Tevinter, and an unapologetic mage. Was there some other reason than magic, then, for Cullen's reticence with her? 

Wary of spoiling the mood, she motioned Cullen to sit and tried to match Dorian's light tone. "Are you two playing nice?" 

"I'm always nice," Dorian lied without skipping a beat. He put his tower down with a decisive thunk and crossed his arms; impressively muscled for a mage, Juliet could never help but notice. If he'd been differently inclined, she was sure she could have put those muscles to good use. "You need to come to terms with my inevitable victory," he declared to Cullen. "You'll feel much better."

"Really?" Cullen pounced, shifting his tower from a black square to a white. "Because I just won," he said with a low chuckle, "and I feel fine."

Dorian raised one perfect eyebrow and smiled, impeccably gracious in defeat. "Don't get smug." He rose from his chair with the fluidity of a cat. "There will be no living with you."

Juliet shifted to let him pass and as she did so, his silken voice reached her in a pitch too low for Cullen to catch. 

"He's all yours, Inquisitor," he purred. "You lucky thing."

She felt her ears burn crimson, unfortunately catching Cullen's eye at the same time. Embarrassment painted a foolish smile across her face and the Commander looked at her with some confusion. 

"I should return to my duties as well…" he said, adding hesitantly, "unless you would care for a game?" 

Me? she nearly said. Did everyone else in Thedas die and nobody told me? Then she remembered the hand that had lingered on hers a moment too long after he helped her onto her horse, and a heat swept through her that had nothing at all to do with embarrassment. 

She maintained her composure enough to give him a tight smile. "Prepare the board, Commander."

Oblivious to the fire that raged inside the woman opposite him, Cullen was conversational as he laid out the carved pieces. "As a child, I played this with my sister. She would get this stuck-up grin whenever she won, which was all the time." He glanced up at her, a rarely seen flash of mischief in his eyes. "My brother and I practiced together for weeks…the look on her facethe day I finally won…" 

Juliet caught a glimpse of the boy he had been in his smirk, before a little frown marred his features. 

"Between serving the templars and the inquisition, I haven't seen them in years," he said regretfully. "I wonder if she still plays."

It was easy to forget that Templars, too, could become separated from their families. She doubted Michael had ever recounted such fond memories of her. But she felt a pang when she thought of Lavinia, and of Alec, whose child must have been born by now. 

"You have siblings?" 

He seemed surprised by her enthusiasm. "Two sisters, and a brother."

"We're the same!" Juliet paused. "I mean, my family. Two boys, and two girls." She shifted, nudging Cullen's foot beneath the table. It went unacknowledged by both of them as they adjusted their postures, but she was aware now of his proximity; she could swear she felt the heat of his knee close to her own. 

"Really?" Leaning forward on his elbows, he graced her with a warm smile. "Michael I know, but…"

Juliet couldn't suppress an eye roll at the mention of her Templar brother. "Alec is the eldest. He's…well, he's unlike Michael. And Lavinia is between Michael and I in age. Terribly frivolous and always has her foot in her mouth, but she means well." Unexpected tears sprang to her eyes as she thought of them; on waking in Haven to the news that she'd been publicly disowned, she hadn't dared to contact them. "Tell me about yours," she said with forced cheerfulness. 

"Mia," he replied with a smile, "is the one I told you of. Branson is my brother, and the youngest is Rosalie."

She wished suddenly, fiercely, that she might some day meet them. "Where are they now?"

"They moved to South Reach after the Blight…" A flash of pain reached Cullen's amber eyes. "I do not write to them as often as I should." Staring at the board, his gaze seemed to come back into focus. "Ah, it's my turn."

"Alright," she said with a grin, "let's see what you've got."

He paused, looking at her for the longest time before shaking his head. Leaning in to make his move, he said softly, "You always seem as if you're laughing at a joke nobody else understands."

"I thought everybody understood," she said lightly. "I'm the joke."

"No." His stare, however glancing, pierced her to the core. "You are far from a joke. You're the reason we are all here."

"And who am I?" she countered. "Someone else would have led. Hawke, if Cassandra could have found her."

"Hawke." His wry smile made a mockery of the idea. 

"Nobody should take themselves too seriously." Pondering a moment, she moved a pawn into the path of his mage. "The more power you have, the lessseriously you should take yourself."

Cullen's gaze raked her. Surely, she thought, he must sense the shifting restlessness his mere proximity woke in her. Finally he shook his head. "Are you sure that doesn't do a disservice to those who choose to follow you?" 

"The opposite." She countered his move. "Power without humility lead to tyranny."

For a moment he looked startled. Then he laughed, shaking his head. "Of all people, I should know that." 

"So you and Dorian…" she began tentatively. 

"Dorian and I…?" Cullen's eyebrows shot up. "I assure you, there's nothing of that sort -" 

"Oh no, I just meant…you seemed to be getting along so well! It's not a friendship I would have expected."

"I ran into him in the library. Varric asked me to find a book for him." At her quizzical look, he chuckled. "I think he's trying to avoid Cassandra."

"I can't say I've ever seen Cassandra in the library."

"No point in taking chances, were his words. Anyway, Dorian…" Considering his next move, he twirled a stone piece in his fingers. Such long, clever fingers…he caught her eyes suddenly and she shut her mouth with a painfully audible snap . "He just seems lost, you know. He's a long way from home."

"Don't let him think you pity him," Juliet advised. "He won't thank you for it."

"It's not pity," he said, surprised. "Sympathy, yes, but I do enjoy his company." He caught her look of puzzlement. "Is that so unusual?" 

"Only," she floundered, searching about for the right words, "because of, you know, what he is."

"What he is?" Cullen's voice held faint disapproval. "I'm not sure I take your meaning."

Oh, Maker, now she'd offended him. "Only that I thought it might make you feel uncomfortable. Threatened, even."

"Threatened?" Cullen sat back in his chair, arms folded as he studied her face. "Why should I feel threatened?" 

Could we build a lesser amulet? she thought desperately.One that would take me back to before this line of conversation began. "You wouldn't be the only one. I know several people are concerned with his presence…" Biting her lip, she trailed off as Cullen drummed his fingers on the chair arm with evident annoyance. 

"I know that some people harbour foolish prejudices," he began, "but I certainly didn't think you would be amongst them, Inquisitor."

"Me?" she answered indignantly. "Why in Thedas would I be prejudiced against Dorian? I'm the same as he is!" 

Cullen gaped. "You are?" 

She couldn't understand his reaction; this was by no means new information for the Commander. "Well, yes. I mean I'm not from Tevinter, but essentially…"

They realised their mistake at the same time. Juliet groaned, covering her face; Cullen rubbed the back of his neck as he grinned sheepishly. "You meant…"

"Yes. And you thought…"

"I did." His grin slipped. "But you're wrong to think Dorian's magic should make me uncomfortable. I mean, you're a mage and I'm not uncomfortable with you."

"You're not?" 

She must have sounded a touch too incredulous, because Cullen looked at her sharply. Then he smiled, staring down at his hands. "I don't know if you've noticed, Inquisitor, but I can be somewhat…awkward…at times."

"No," she answered, laughing. "Really? It had completely escaped my notice."

"If I seem that way around you, please know that it's not because of the fact that you're a mage. It's because, well…"

Juliet's mouth went dry. "Yes?" 

"It's just the way I am," he finished quickly. 

Hope gave way to sharp disappointment. Surprised by the intensity of her reaction, she hid her feelings in contemplating the next move. "Your turn," she said finally. His pawn joined the small crowd of pieces on the tabletop. 

He studied the board, frowning. "You're no stranger to this game."

"My mentor in the Circle, Lydia," she swallowed hard at the memory, "didn't believe in idle hands. Or minds. When the study of magic didn't take up our time she had us learn history, geography, strategy, mathematics…" An opening became apparent and she swiftly dispatched one of his mages. "Chess."

At the mention of her Circle, Cullen's expression became shuttered. "It seems that was time well spent," he said stiffly. "I wish…" He shook his head, apparently clearing some stray thought. "Your move, Inquisitor."

Always Inquisitor. What was it about him - or about her - that drove her to keep needling him? He was too proper, too authoritative. It made her keep trying to crack open that facade of stiff professionalism, even if she felt like a bird hopelessly battering its wings against a window pane. It made her blurt out, even as her rational mind told her it was a terrible idea, "So…tell me about you and Hawke."

Cullen's smile vanished. "How do you…? Never mind," he said, somewhat curtly. "I would rather not." With exaggerated carefulness he finished his move, putting his knight down with the barest tap of stone on stone. Without meeting her eyes, he elaborated, "It was a mistake."

"Oh." A mistake. Her chest suddenly tight, she attempted what she hoped was a smile. "You have regrets?" 

Cullen's answering smile was more of a grimace. "I regret the entire thing. Now, really…I'd prefer if we moved on."

"I'm sorry," she said with forced cheerfulness. "It seems my sister's not the only one capable of putting her foot in it." She saw the opportunity to take his queen, and considered letting it pass; then, with an apologetic smile and a half-shrug, she toppled the piece with her mage. 

"There," Cullen said. "That's Mia's look."

Juliet laughed. "I wasn't aiming for stuck-up, but I suppose I've earned the right to gloat a little."

"It's not over yet," he countered. Thoughtful, he glanced at her through sandy eyelashes. "This may be the longest we've gone without discussing the Inquisition - or related matters. To be honest, I appreciate the distraction."

"I aim to please." Impulsively, she added, "We should spend more time together."

Another misstep in a conversation littered with them. Wasn't Cullen supposed to be the awkward one? But there was no awkwardness in his heavy-lidded gaze. "I would… like that," he said, and his low voice sent a pleasant shiver through her body. She could only smile back inanely, until he shook himself and turned his attention back to the board. 

"We should…finish our game," he stammered. "Right. My turn?" 

They sat in companionable silence. Stone tapped against stone, and the low hum of insects and murmured conversations played around them. Finally Cullen played the only move that was open to him, and it was checkmate. He smiled wryly. 

"I believe this one is yours. Well played." He leaned back, rolling his shoulders in a way that distracted Juliet entirely from her victory. "We shall have to try again some time." Standing, he offered her a small bow. "Inquisitor."

"Juliet," she said. "Please."

"Juliet." It was only her imagination, adding that low, husky timbre to his voice, the flash in his molten gold eyes. It was just her name; there was no reason for it to feel like a caress. 

And yet long after he had taken his leave she sat, fingers playing around her lips as if the memory of a kiss lingered there. 

"Still here?" Dorian startled her from her reverie. He ensconced himself in the chair opposite, fingers steepled and a knowing gleam in his eye. "Do I sense a romance blooming? I would so love to attend a provincial wedding."

"Did you and Varric orchestrate this?" she demanded. 

"Varric?" he said, affronted. "Perish the thought, dear cousin. Our Commander wandered into my library and I took pity on him. He seemed so…" The mage twirled his hand theatricality. "Lost."

"How terribly kind of you to keep him entertained."

"Obviously, darling Juliet, I resent the implication to my very core." Dorian plucked an imaginary piece of lint from his trouser leg, examining it between thumb and forefinger. "But I did rather enjoy the game…and the view."

"You don't find our little garden too provincial?"

"Now, now," he chastised her. "We both know I wasn't talking about the garden. My question remains: are you two delightful creatures going to give all of us, your proud and loving family, the news we wait so impatiently to hear? Or must Varric's prize pool grow ever larger?" 

"Bloody Varric," she muttered. 

"Well?" Dorian crossed an elegant ankle over his leg. 

"I'm going to have to disappoint you."

"Oh." Dorian did, indeed, sound disappointed. "Tell cousin Dorian absolutely everything."

Juliet sighed. I regret the entire thing. Somewhere in the Hinterlands, Tanner would be thinking the same about her. "There's really nothing to tell." She turned her hand palm up; the Anchor pulsed faintly green. "I just don't want to be anyone else's mistake."