#right now i'm so mad at him and just at my wits end. i thought we were done with this

[90stvqueen]

my cat just went on a feral play aggression kick and scratched the shit out of me. i put him in time out for ten minutes and now he's lying on my legs grooming himself. the duality of man

[literallydontknowdontcare]

I’m literally BEGGING a Vanessa x fem!reader where Vanessa gets jelly and it ends up in rough/angry sex

You DO Own Me

Vanessa Shelly/Afton x Fem Reader

PLUS this request: “Can we get Vanessa fucking y/n roughly? Like pulling hair, biting neck and scratching back type of rough?”

a/n: yessir 😜 merged this request with another anon as they coincide… sorry for the delay in fics. I am still sick but that not my excuse: my excuse is I'm lazy lol. This may be shit, sorry ;')

Content/Warnings: Top/Rough Vanessa, Bottom sub reader, smut, choking, strap use [r receiving], rough sex, not proofread/edited, Vanessas kind of an asshole but that's hot

w/c: 2024

The ride home was silent. Well, not completely. Though Vanessa was extremely unimpressed, her lips pressed together and her hands gripping the steering wheel so tight her knuckles turned white, you were having the time of your life. Under the influence of alcohol, you were giddy and chatty, oblivious to your girlfriend's simmering anger beside you.

“And I literally told Mike that he was insane for thinking those robots cut him in his sleep, but of COURSE he decided to ignore me and continued to take those pills. I mean, really? The poor man is half asleep most of the time!”, you huff, recalling your last shift. “What do you think?”, you turn to Vanessa, your half dazed, half-blushed face informing her that you really did have no idea that she was mad.

“Mm”, she replied, uninterested. You, again, didn’t notice anything out of the ordinary. “I know! Maybe I should replace them with some melatonin gummies.. He probably wouldn’t notice”, you giggle, rolling down the front window to breathe. Fanning yourself, the alcohol making you overheated, you gaze at the stars outside in awe. The outdoors really does hit differently when you’re drunk. Unbeknownst to you, Vanessa was seconds from snapping. Pulling into the driveway of your shared home and parking her personal vehicle beside her cop car, she immediately stepped outside as soon as the gas turned off and slammed the door shut, ignoring your own door and walking to the front of the house. You frown, beginning to zone back in.

“Maybe she just forgot”, you think, in reference to her not racing to open your door or offering to carry you inside as she usually would. Stumbling out of the car, you follow behind her into the house. “Vanessa?”, you ask aloud, wondering where she disappeared to in the span of two seconds. Pausing, you try to listen for any footsteps around the house for any indication of her location. Nothing. “Vanessa? Baby?”, you repeat, concerned now. Half limping, you shrug off your jacket and kick off your heels, wandering around the house. Finally, in the corner of your eye, you see the upstairs office light getting turned on.

Sprinting up the stairs, going as fast as your tipsy body would allow you to, you head for the office. Before you could open the door you heard a mumbling sound. Cracking the door open, you witness your girlfriend pinching the bridge of her nose in annoyance, talking to someone on the phone.

“Yes, yes. I understand. I just thought- no thank you. I’ll be alright. Sorry for the misunderstanding”, Vanessa answered someone on the line, grinding her teeth when she saw you enter. “Thank you. Have a good one”, she hung up the phone, turning away from you and leaning against the desk.

“Vanessa? What’s wrong?”, you whisper. She snorted.

“What? Now you notice?”, she spits, still not turning around.

You bit your lip, anxious at her reply. “What was the phone call about?”

“Work. Nothing for you to worry about”, she then laughs. “Not that you were, to begin with”. She leans over the desk, reaching for a pen and paper to jot something down, and you try to not let your mind race with thoughts of her rolling her hips forward as you can tell she needs comfort right now, not a horny girlfriend.

You walk towards her nervously. “Are you okay baby? You were fine in the car-”

She snaps at you. “No. I wasn’t. If you weren’t so lightweight you would know that”. Stillness filled the air, the only noise coming from the scribbles of the pen as Vanessa jotted down the information from the phone call.

Coming up behind her, you gently place your hand on the back of her arm. “Is this- is this about Mike?”, you watch her jaw clench from the side. Blinking in surprise, you reiterate. “It is? Isn’t it?”

“Drop it”, Vanessa scowls, shoving herself off the table. Your foggy brain couldn’t help but think ‘muscle memory’ with the way she practically ground against it in annoyance.

“Are you serious? He’s a respectful guy! His old crush means nothing”, you protest.

“Nothing? You make me sick”

“What do you want from me? For me to spit on him and never talk to him again?”, you snap, frustrated now.

She crosses her arms. “Preferably”, she snickers. She comes closer to you. “Or maybe you like the attention? Hm?”

You pull away, hurt. You’d like to believe she was drunk saying this, but she was completely sober. “Vanessa-”

“Poor you, huh? Do I not give you enough attention? Is my poor baby always so needy”, she mocked, snarling.

You blink away tears and begin to walk out of the office when you feel a gust of wind and a sudden thud against your back. Gasping, you slam into the wall, your head narrowly missing the collision. Before you could turn around, you felt Vanessa pin your hands behind your back, her cuffs clenching around your wrists and shutting with a loud ‘click’.

“What the fuck Van-FUCK”, your sentence gets cut off as you hear a loud smack; Vanessa had just hit your ass. You feel numb for a few seconds, and then everything after that. You whine out, trying to cover yourself as she grabs your cuffed wrists and pins them above your head, her other hand coming around your waist to arch your back towards her. “Always whining. Never taking what I give you”. She slaps you again, the force of her hand biting your skin, surely leaving red marks that would turn purple tomorrow. You bite your lip, pain, and pleasure fighting to take over your emotions. You settle on both and she digs into your scalp, raising you up to her. You whimper out as she turns your head to the side and begins to suck at the front of your neck. Your life flashes before your eyes; having to walk in tomorrow at Freddy’s, a hickey so prominent that any efforts to hide it with makeup make it look evening trashier, and Mike seeing exactly what she did to you. You never understood her anger when it came to Mike; she liked him well enough. You just were never allowed to talk to him, apparently.

“Vanessa, please”, you whisper as she bites the side of your neck, pain seeping in. Squirming, she finally releases you. You flop against the wall, breathing heavily as she stares you down.

“Look at you”, she hisses. Everything about Vanessa commanded respect. Not one part of her demonstrated sex except for her slightly flushed cheeks and large pupils. Her hair was perfectly in place, her shirt was properly ironed. You, on the other hand, were tied up, beaten, and most definitely not commanding respect. It was exactly how Vanessa liked it on days like this.

She leans forward, tangling her hands gently in your hair. She tugs on your strands gently, lulling you into a false sense of security as you close your eyes, content. You should have known it wouldn’t last. “Pathetic, you are”, she says. Suddenly, she drags you to the office desk, making you gasp out in pain, flinging your hands to hers in a poor attempt to release her grip. Shoving you over the desk, she had you right where she wanted you in the first place; bent over and tied. “What, you thought I was going to treat you?”, she laughs. You stutter, words being unable to properly form. “Nothing happened! You were there the whole time! Why am I being punished for your jealousy issues?”, you yell out as she begins to scratch your back deeply. Her nails dig into your skin, fire spreading everywhere you touch. Wailing and twitching in her grasp, you hear her from behind. “Stupid girl. So disappointing when you act out against me”, she taps on the handcuffs. “Are you forgetting who protects you? I can harm you instead if you want baby, just ask”. She pauses, waiting for your reply. Nothing.

She smiles. You can feel the cockiness being emitted without even seeing her. Instead, you intently stare at the table, wishing you were in bed right now instead of feeling the humiliation of your girlfriend lifting up your skirt to check your panties.

The cold table was a harsh polarity to your pussy; you hated how your pussy was throbbing faster than your heart. Vanessa hummed from behind you, clearly amused and proud of you. Leaning over you, the shape of her breasts being felt against your back despite her clothing, she whispers a soft “I love how much of a whore you are”, before standing back up and softly grinding her front against your bare ass. You widen your eyes as you feel something hard press against you. You love how hot and cold Vanessa can be. No matter how rough and angry she can get, she can never resist treating you first.

The sound of her unzipping her pants was as close as you were ever going to get to hearing church bells. Hell, even angels singing couldn’t replicate the sound of her strap slapping your pussy. Shutting your eyes, your brace yourself against the table, moaning as her cock dipped into your soft entrance.

“You think you deserve this?”, she asks, moving your hair back with her hands, a gesture she couldn’t help doing. Not when she knew you did nothing wrong.

You nod desperately, grinding your ass back into her strap, your pussies walls clenching around nothing in a desperate attempt for friction.

Vanessa stayed silent as she plunged her cock into your pussy. You, however, most definitely did not. Your screams filled the quaint neighbourhood as she thrusted into you at a brutal pace that didn’t account for your lack of adjustment. Your hands gripped anything on the table in sight, your body becoming simultaneously needy and overstimulated. “P-please Vanessa slow- oh FUCK yes-”, you cry out, conflicted with the pain.

She rakes her hands over your ass, switching between slapping your reddened cheeks and clawing at your lower back. Hearing her deep, ragged breaths, you knew she was close; the strap hit her clit at every thrust, making her let out lowly strained moans. “Van-”, you roll your eyes back, your vision turning white. She was hitting your gummy walls so right that it felt insane. Your arousal was streaming down the table and her legs, which Vanessa acknowledged by letting out a snort.

“Need to come, baby?”, she hummed. You whine, grinding back. You needed this release so badly; anything Vanessa had told you had already been forgiven.

“V- nessa I need to.. Please”, you bite your lip and squint your eyes, begging yourself to not release before she allowed you to do so. You couldn’t risk more punishment. She sighed as if thinking about it. She sped up the pace, pounding the strap in a way that made it ten times more pleasurable for her as it did for you.

As your fingers grabbed at the table, she let out the smallest whimper that made you go feral. You pleaded, over and over again, to come. You felt extremely betrayed and turned on as Vanessa slumped forward, her chest heaving from cumming quietly. “Oh y/n”, she moaned, “Cum now baby”, she snaked her arm around your waist to bring your ass up even higher as you came with a loud cry.

You let go of the table, your body now going limp. “Vanessa”, you sigh, unable to move. Despite your comfortable position, consisting of you flopping across the table and Vanessa holding you loosely with her strap still half inside of you, she pulls out and forcefully slips you over way too soon for your brain. The pleasure was turning into pain again, and you hiss as your ass makes contact with the table, the marks making it unbearable.

“Don’t think this is over”, she murmurs as you pull her closer.

You look at her, confused.

“It’s only 1 am. If you think I’m done with you, you are sorely mistaken”

[kingconia]

#4, #9 and #28 with Rook Hunt! He seems like a possessive lover

4. “You know I'd do anything to have you stay by my side, right? Anything.“

9. “Damn it all to hell, if I don't get to have you tonight then I'm never going to be able to have you.”

28. ”Come and get your fix.”

cw: slightly spicy? mentions of possessiveness and slight obsession (from both sides, lmao)

•

In the world of kings, princes and magical creatures, you were no one.

It was something you accepted rather quickly; this world was never yours to begin with, and no particular sadness was met by this early realisation. The role of temporary guest came easily to you, the understating of the fact that you will leave this place as soon as Crowley will come up with something, always lingered at the back of your mind.

And so, attaching to someone was prohibited. From your perspective it would be easier this way, to be able leave it, without loving someone.

You were nice to everyone to the point all of them meant nothing to you. You treated them like characters, whose stories you witnessed accidentally. Different books with curious main characters. And nothing more.

Well. Until Rook Hunt.

This story started rather ridiculously. While you hunt down backstories of others, he hunted down you. He thought of you—and that was flattering—as a unique beast to this little collection, a new target. It was the fact that you had nothing in this world that made you so special in his eyes. An attractive little thing, he said.

Despite everything—or rather, exactly because of it—you preferred to ignore him. You rolled his eyes as you felt his ghostly presence in the rooms, and your lips thinned when he talked to you, spluttering little complements here and there. Eventually, though, you got used to it.

To all of him.

In one of many days like this, you suggested him to stop hiding in the bushes or climbing on the rooftops. Instead, you allowed him to follow you.

And the game began.

What started as a strange experience ended up being the most meaningful thing that you made. He was following you, and from now, you followed him as well. And what others called a strange alliance between two of you, grew into something more.

Apparently, Rook was kissing as skillfully as he shot animals down. And, oh, you were nothing in your soul if not starved.

Rook tasted as a pure madness; a tip of his sharp, arrow-like tongue filled your mouth with bittersweetness, dragging your further in the tunnel of insanity, along with him. His every single touch, each praise, tied you even more to him, making utterly desperate.

Rook Hunt tamed you. And you were happily giving up.

”Oh, mon précieux,” he murmured, pressing his chest to yours, as he caught in the corridors of the school, shamelessly, ”it is a little late for running away from me, don't you think?”

It was. Yet, you gave it a try.

The impact of his man dawned on you suddenly as you realised how far you were from your own rules. Your own decision not to be attached to anyone was long forgotten. Now, you know, leaving this world will hurt.

”You know I'd do anything to have you stay by my side, right?” His soft lips pressed to the line of your chin, in something between a kiss and mere touch. ”Anything.”

You closed your eyes, collecting yourself. It was time to stop this game.

”Rook, cut your nonsense,” your breath came out as a roar, when his fingertips traced down your neck, stopping on the tight-buttoned collar. ”I will leave this place eventually. Stop hurting both of us.”

”Maybe I should just break our favourite mirror,” he purred, as if ignoring what you said completely. ”That will leave you without a choice, hm-m.”

”Rook,” you hissed.

His voice was sweeter than honey, and the words that left his lips were so nicely poisonous that you desired nothing but to drink it right from his mouth.

What a graceful nightmare he was.

”Be honest with me, ma prière, do you truly believe that you will ever leave this place?” He stopped his distracting actions, eyes now fully on you. ”Or is that your own way to apologise before people you left in another world?”

You hardly had anyone back there, and you never felt belonged to anywhere. Could it be the reason why you were sent here? Could it be the argument to allow Crowley to stay? Could it be—

”You are thinking too much, mon amour,” the tip of your noses met. ”Will you have me or no?”

Oh, how dared he to ask, when he knows it already?

”Damn it all to hell,” you laughed bitterly, fingers digging in his lean shoulders, bringing him as close as it was only possible. ”If I don't get to have you tonight then I'm never going to be able to have you.”

Your breath mingled together, and the sharp corners of his lips curled in a disturbingly beautiful smile, when his hands squeezed your hips possessively.

”Here you are, ma bête. Come and get your fix.”

Before you know, your lips were already brought together as you clinged to each other desperately, teeth meeting with a clicking sound, and tongues intertwining in breathless gasps.

Rook might tamed you. But he didn't win. Because it was your name that was engraved on his heart, just as he branded his own in your chest.

And there was no turning back now.

•

A/N: Rook calls reader ”my precious”, ”my pray”, ”my love” and ”my beast” on french in this order.

[reallyromealone]

Title: kingslayer

Fandom: black clover

Pairing: Nozel x male reader

Chapter: one

Warnings: male reader

Notes: slow burn slow burn

🌑🌒🌓🌔🌕🌖🌗🌘🌑🌒🌓🌔🌕🌖🌗🌘🌑

"god, I forgot how comfortable beds are" Long journeys didn't make for the most comfortable sleeping arrangements, the bed much more comfortable than the trees he's slept in. He didn't know much about the clover kingdom, they had a king and a giant skull that (name) was happy he got to paint. The room was warm, with light beige walls with wood beams that matched the old floorboards and bed frame and furniture, small paintings on the walls to give it some light along with candles for later. A small fireplace in the corner a chair to the side and a desk.

It was more than what he was used to.

Knock knock.

(Name) sat up curiously before walking to the door, opening it to see a young woman "Hi! My dad owns the inn... I noticed you didn't have shoes and we had a nicer pair in the lost and found that weren't gross so I thought you would want them... I hope they fit" (name) smiled softly at her "that's very kind of you, here... I would like to pay you back" the wanderer stepped aside and let her walk into his room, a few of his paintings out "I'll make you a portrait..." He said softly and the young woman looked confused "You don't have to!"

"An act of genuine kindness sparks another besides with the cost of portraits these days, wouldn't it be nice?"

The girl had no reply as she looked at his tiny paintings, no bigger than her hand "Whoa..."

"That one is of the heart kingdom, it's very wild there," he said as they looked at the painting of a rare power "I paint things to remember them, one day I may forget these little things and I always want to remember them... Now! Sit with the sunlight facing you! We don't have much time!"

The woman, whom (name) fondly called 'sparrow' posed shyly as (name) painted her "you have excellent bone structure, you would have made a brilliant sculpture in another world" he commented as she looked confused and a bit flustered "you think?" She said barely above a whisper "I do, my former flame had a beautiful facial structure as well..." (Name) had a sad smile on his face as he thought about his former beloved, though he knows she used him... He still wishes he could have been there for his daughter.

"So what brings you to the clover kingdom?" Sparrow asked and (name) smiled "I'm just sight seeing, I haven't seen much of the clover kingdom so why not right?"

Well, he hadn't seen it... recently.

"You have anything here to recommend?" He asked as he painted and the girl thought "there's a restaurant around the corner that sells the best pasta!" She beamed and (name) chuckled at her dreamy expression at the thought of the dish "I'll have to check it out"

"So what kind of magic do you do? My magic is not strong but I can grow plants" the girl said happily, (name) listening before speaking "If you honed in you could probably grow rare roots... Would help make.potions and such"

"I could do that!"

(Name) helped her with making her magic feel more useful as he kept the topic of his magic out of her head but that didn't seem to work "So what's your magic?" She repeated and (name) knew she wouldn't stop so he answered honestly "It's complicated but to try and simplify it... It- it's strong" he couldn't put it into words without exposing himself "If it's powerful, you should join the magic knights!" (Name) looked confused and the other gasped "the magic knights protect and help the kingdom! They're super strong!"

"... there I think we're done" (name) presented the painting to her "It needs time to dry but I think I didn't do half bad" he just wanted this conversation to end, she was a sweet girl but overwhelming, to say the least, and her look of amazement at tge painting mad regime smile "I can keep this?" She whispered and looked at him in awe "Just keep being kind, yeah? And keep your wits about you"

After she left (name) walked to the window and looked at the clover kingdom curiously, perhaps after a nap he could check it out.

"How do we know he's real?" Charlotte asked and Vanessa sighed "Trust me if anyone can fix this mess... It's him" She remembered him fondly, the man from her childhood before she was locked away in the cage, the man who would teach her things about the outside world he was from, her mother spoke highly of him "he was more powerful than she has ever seen", Vanessa said distantly as the others looked curious at her "someone of his description entered the city today," William said looking over the description that was given to the guards "are you sure he still looks like that?"

"I'm sure"

Nozel and Fuegoleon were tasked to look for this man, and the two ended up at an inn, small and unassuming in the lower ends "Pardon me" Fuegeleon asked the innkeeper who gazed from his book, an older man he was with a slight bald spot and beer belly but friendly none the less "oh that guy? He gave my daughter a painting, why did he do something?"

"No, we just need his help"

"He's out right now but he'll probably be back tonight" the innkeeper was relieved the kind young man hadn't done anything, curious on why the two Royals needed him though but decided not to press "may I offer you two a drink while you wait?"

"Ah, no thank you" Fuegeleon always the gentleman said softly and the innkeeper looked slightly saddened as the redhead continued "would it be possible to see his room? To wait?" The innkeeper not wanting to be in the way of knight business let them have the key to the room and even lead the way, the two thanking him as Nozel looked disgruntled in the shabby room but did notice the drying paintings of the capital on the small desk "these are incredibly detailed" he noted to his cousin who hummed "from what Vanessa says this must be him, he was a painter"

The paintings almost looked real if it wasn't for the water color aspect, it was incredible really "How can we be sure he can help us?"

"Frankly I just want to know why two strange men are in my room" a voice broke them from their thoughts as (name) held a paper container of pasta, eating it slowly "Quite rude frankly, just barging into a room someone paid for"

"Are you (name)?" Nozel glares at the man in the ratty cloak with painted designs on it and the inside, little embroidery designs of flowers and what looks to be a family on it all in the style of a child's drawing.

"Ah, that would be me," he said casually as he plopped down in his chair, not even phased "who are you two?" He had a bored expression as he ate more pasta, the girl was not lying this shit was the bomb! "You don't know who we are?" Nozel seethed and (name) raised an eyebrow "Haven't been in the clover kingdom in years, I ain't gotta clue"

"We are the captains of the Silver Eagles and Crimson Lions respectively"

"That a sports team or something?"

"Spo-- we are magic knights!" Noel was about to tear this man's head off but thankfully Fuegeleon stepped in "We were told you could help us"

"And who said that?"

"Someone you may know... Are you aware of anyone named Vanessa?"

(Name) didn't even need to hear the rest as he packed his belongings, his cloak swishing as he put the paintings away "Well what are you doing? Lead the way!" (Name) urged them, a stark difference compared to how he was earlier as he slung his bag over his shoulder "let's go!"

(Name) didn't give a fuck about the palace, eyes looking around curious for one person and one person alone.

Then it felt like time stood still as he stared at him from across the room with people wearing matching caplets.

"'Nessa..." He said as he had finally found happiness, the knights were confused as the pink-haired woman felt tears well up in her eyes.

"Papa..."

[who-do-i-know-this-man]

I made a mistake. Several actually. Several very severe mistakes. And this post isn't meant to make it all ok, I have accepted that many are rightfully mad at me, but I do hope that I can at least have some context to the mistakes I made and why I made them.

First let me say that I am privileged. That much is true. I am a white man in the american suburbs. I have the luxury of not only not being personally affected by many social issues but not even having to witness them. But I still want to be a good person. And part of that is learning about these social issues by talking and interacting with people online. But I'm still not perfect. I'm barely an adult and I have a lot of growing to do as a person. And hopefully with this in mind it will make some of the mistakes I will go over just a bit more understandable.

Back in mid march I made the submissions post for this blog, and did not expect to get as many as I did. I then spent a month taking as many submissions as I could and putting them in a list. All in all I ended up with over 2000 characters. From that alone it should be understandable why I couldn't research every one before releasing the bracket. I even ended up with many mistakes like incorrect labeling and duplicate characters.

However the first true mistake came later. I was making the poll posts themselves and I got to Lance. I knew I should have done something at the time but I didn't exactly know what. It was one poll and I was doing 16 polls per day minimum, but ideally double that so that I could have a backlog of posts. So I didn't spend as much time thinking about the issue as I should have and the conclusion I came to was that at the end of the day it was a fictional character, and if I properly content warning it it will be fine. Anyone who is sensitive to that imagery can block it. This is largely where my ignorance came in. While it may sound improbable to those who do know more I promise you I genuinely thought that I was doing no harm. And while I won't lie and say I am now a master in the topic now I do have a better understanding of the harm that this decision caused. Additionally my pride got to me. I am very proud of having "the biggest bracket on tumblr" but I had already had quite a few be disqualified for being duplicates or real people, so I didn't want to make the bracket any smaller and lose prestige. This was far from the main reason I kept him in, but it was morally wrong.

People's response to the original poll was mixed. There were people who immediately asked me to remove him, but others were on my side in saying that he should stay since he's a fictional character and his morals don't matter. So I defaulted to the stance I already had, and did nothing. This was a mistake. Above all else I should have prioritized everyone feeling safe and comfortable on my blog.

But the last night it was about an hour later then I should have been asleep and my brain was incredibly stupid, and things started to go down hill. I got the first ask in a while about Lance, and I decided to put an end to the issue. My way of doing this was doing a poll. In my mind this was my way of accounting for my ignorance. I don't know much about how severe this issue is, so I'll put it in the hands of people who did.

This poll also got mixed results. Some said I should just have the conviction to eliminate him myself, but others brought up things about that character I didn't know, like how he apparently has a character arc of learning fascism is bad, or that he has other visuals where he's wearing different outfits. I also got messages from fans of the series who thanked me for giving the character a chance. This made me feel comfortable in being a "neutral party". However with the notes I felt that I should "do this right" which unfortunately led to me doing the exact opposite.

I deleted the original poll, where 70% were in favor of disqualifying him. I didn't think it was a big deal since it had only been up a few minutes, but this was yet another mistake. I made a new poll, which included info that had been told to me since the previous poll. But the problem was that what I had actually written was not good. It was almost midnight at this point, so while I tried to remain a "neutral party" I ended up having the info show a very clear bias. And considering the character in question, people began to wonder why I was trying so hard to keep him in the poll. This led to many replies on the poll that began to overwhelm me. I was starting to realize the mistakes I had made and just how deep of a pit I had dug myself in. I panicked. I turned off replies and deleted all the ones on that were on the poll so that I could say everything I wanted to say interrupted. This backfired, and led to people going to the reblogs instead. And me deleting all the replies looked BAD. While I was trying to get the things I wanted to say out the post had spread. Spread even outside of the people who normally know this account. People who knew nothing of the history and structure of this blog, who thought that I had seen a character who was a Nazi and thought "sure come right in" and I was now trying desperately to keep him in.

This understandably made people very mad when that was their perception. Many many people were saying terrible hurtful things to me. Their heart was in the right place but even now I do not agree with the kind of harassment some stooped to. At this point I was in a full blown panic attack. Every bit of damage control dug me deeper into the pit. I decided that I needed to deal with this situation with a clear head so that I didn't make more mistakes in a panic. I deleted the poll about Lance's elimination and went to bed.

That brings us to this morning. I have announced that Lance is disqualified, and deleted the original poll containing him. I promise you all that I will try my hardest to prevent anything like this from happening again on my blog. I want to make things as right as I can. And I hope now you all will believe me when I say that I am not a Nazi, or an antisemite, I'm just a privileged idiot who made some dumb mistakes.

[a1307s]

Flickers of Green #2

(Dick Grayson & Jason Todd)

[Art is not mine! Credit to fish-goat]

Requested by: quirkyshortdumbo11

Keys:

Y/N: Your Name

Word Count: 6,214

Warnings and/or Pre-Notes:

Cursing

Mentions of Death

———————————————————————

I walk out of the abandoned building, the sounds of my gunshot and the now-dead drug lord's screaming still ringing in my head.

Nowadays it seems that these sounds comfort me more than Bruce ever could. Fucking Bruce. I hate him. I hate Batman. I hate the Joker. I hate myself for letting Y/N die. For dragging her to her death. For not being able to save her. For me being the one that's alive.

I can't let guilt cloud my mind right now. It's hard to kill someone as you're feeling guilty for causing the death of someone else. I need something to clear my head, something to reset myself. Coffee should help, it always did when I was originally alive.

I glance around, trying to get my wits together and figure out where the nearest coffee shop is. I tug my phone out of my jacket, taking a glance at the time. Nine thirty-two. Late but not too late, except for coffee. I don't know if anywhere with a decent cup of Joe will be open. I don't need that watered-down bean soup shit they serve at gas stations.

Pamela's cafe will be open. They're always open. I don't want to go there though. The last thing I need is more memories of Y/N.

I do a quick Google search, hoping to find any other cafe open, but I don't. I don't need coffee, but I do need something to eat and a donut sounds so good right now. I can't even remember what a donut tastes like. I'll just have to eat my feelings alongside the donut then.

I pull up Google Maps, glancing over it quickly before heading towards the cafe. The plus side of Pamela's is that the staff is pretty chill with anything; heroes, villains, and citizens alike.

It seems that in the past couple of years, the girls on staff have been adopted by some of the villains. I see Ivy, Scarecrow, and Harley coming and going from there a lot.

When I was at the Iceberg Lounge - aka Penguin's bar, strip club, and not-so-underground business - he mentioned that he "keeps up" on the girls and pays some of their tuition. He also mentioned there's a new girl that started a couple of months ago and that she's "a feisty little one that doesn't fear shit". That coming from Penguin is a bit of an honor. Not many people can get a compliment like that from him.

Maybe I'll meet this feisty new girl tonight. Maybe I'll take her home. I could use the distraction. However, I don't usually end up doing anything with them when I do get them home. I usually just lose my shit cause it's not the same as it was with Y/N.

I switch between being mad and being indifferent about being unable to move on from her. She died only ever loving me, why can't I live only ever loving her?

The neon lights of the cafe cut into my line of sight along with cutting through my thoughts. I forgot how obnoxious all the neon was. Standing right outside the cafe is Penguin and a young girl. She's in the 50s dinner uniform Pamela's staff wears. She's also wrapped up in a fancy-looking coat.

I feel half bad for the girl. If she's working at a cafe, she can't afford a coat like that, which means it's from the Penguin. It's never good for anyone - much less a young girl - to be in debt to Penguin.

My pace slows as I approach them. "Come on Feisty, just let me pay for your courses. Then you wouldn't have to work so much."

"No, I'm good. I don't mind supporting myself." The girl's voice is soft but firm as she speaks. Maybe she isn't as stupid as I thought.

"Listen here you little bitch-"

"No, you listen here you fucking flightless bird," the girl yells back, causing a bit of laughter to brew in my chest. "I already told you I don't want your money and unlike most of the other girls, I don't owe you shit so back off."

"And if I don't?" He asks, starting to turn the head on his cane. Under the head is usually a knife that Penguin is known to use on people when he doesn't get his way.

The girl yanks the cane away before any damage can be done, causing shock in both the bird and me. "If you don't I'll stab you to death with your own cane. Go back to your dumb pimp square." Penguin stands there for a second, just staring at the girl before he walks away mumbling to himself. His wobble is more present than usual now that he doesn't have his cane to support him. The club owner wasn't kidding about this girl not being scared of anything, or at least she was good at pretending.

Now that the fat man isn't in the way, I'm able to see the girl he was talking to. As my eyes scan over her my mind both empties and explodes. Standing in the neon lights is the spitting image of Y/N, which is impossible... because she's dead.

Or is it? I'm technically dead and yet here I am. But if she was alive, she would have looked for me, right? Like I did for her? She would at least be at the manor, right? Bruce would take her back in or at the very least Dick would... right? Or maybe she didn't want to go back to them. Maybe she's mad at them too.

Y/N - I think it's her - turns on her heels, heading down the road. I need to follow her. If she is my Y/N I need to know. I need to be a hundred percent certain. At the very least, if it's not Y/N I should still watch the girl get home safe after she disagreed with Penguin.

What if it's not Y/N? What if it is? What if this is a trap? Is Al Ghul fucking with my head again? Did he set this up to trap me back within the League? Even if he did, I need to know what's going on. Just in case it is a trap, I stay hidden. I'll have the element of surprise if shit does go south.

I follow this girl, not paying much attention to where she's going but making sure to keep pace with her. If it is my Y/N I can't lose her again from careless mistakes.

My mind runs a mile a minute as I trail her. I need answers, I need to hold her, I need her to be Y/N.

Maybe-Y/N turns, making my heart race. Fear of losing her around the corner mixes with the joy of a split second of light enveloping her.

I catch a glimpse behind her ear. When we were twelve, right before Bruce took us in, we thought it would be a good idea to give each other stick-and-poke tattoos. We tattooed each other's names behind our ears. My name is there, behind her left ear, in my chicken scratch handwriting. It has to be her. There's no way Al Ghul could know about that. I don't even think Bruce knows about our matching tattoos.

My pace quicks as I slide around the corner after her. I need her. I need to tell her I'm here. I need - it's a trap.

Hands land on me, throwing me to my right. My boots slide against the gravel on the sidewalk, aiding in me losing my balance. I fall hard, harder than the Roman Empire.

On my way down, my helmet comes into contact with a trash can. The noise echoes within my disguise, promising to give me a headache.

"What the hell?" I bark, quickly getting back to my feet. I should have known this was too good to be true. I should have known it was a trap. I should have known to pay attention to my surroundings. What the fuck is wrong with me?

Once the sound rattling around my helmet quiets some I'm able to get a grip on my surroundings. Standing in front of me is Dick Grayson in his signature black and blue spandex suit. "Fucking Nightwing," I husk out, shaking my head to get the last of the echoes out.

"Hood," he answers, positioning himself for a throwdown.

From my last run-in with Bruce, it's evident he knows who I am. Despite his attempt to hide it, the Bat was throwing his punches. I'm guessing from the greeting that he didn't share his findings with Dick.

But fine, if a fight is what Nightwing wants, a fight is what he'll get. It shouldn't be difficult to get him down.

I cautiously walk toward him, preparing myself to swing. One easy hit. Just one to knock him down long enough for me to sneak off and find Y/N.

I swing at him, but he ducks. What a little shit. I don't want trouble, I just want to go find - he thinks I'm stalking her. Dick thinks I'm stalking Y/N. Does he know it's Y/N?

"Just move aside, Wing, it's not what you think," I call out louder than I meant to. I throw another punch, trying to get him down again. I don't have time for this. I don't have the want to explain who I am and who I'm chasing after.

Dick needs to get out of my way before I lose Y/N. I can't lose her again. I'd burn the Earth to a crisp before I let that happen.

My thoughts distract me, making me lag as Nightwing tries to sweep my feet out from under me. I almost managed to avoid it but do end up tripping a bit from my late reaction.

"You're a notorious killer chasing after a girl, what else am I supposed to think?" Grayson calls, his cocky attitude present in his words. Well, that answers my question; he doesn't know it's Y/N. Or who I am. Or maybe he does and doesn't want me to know that he's connected to her. I hate the hush-hush behaviors we both inherited from Bruce.

I stumble back, again causing my helmet to come into contact with more metal. I'm definitely going to have a piercing headache for the next couple of hours. Great.

As the object behind me catches my fall, my guns slide across it, reminding me of their presence. If he's not going to go down with physical force, a gunshot sure as hell will work.

Nightwing approaches me, pulling his weapon out from behind his back. He's mumbling, probably answering whoever is on the other end of his coms. Great, I'm going to have to go through Batman too to get to Y/N. If that's the case, so be it. Bruce's name is as good as carved into my bullets if that's what it takes to get Y/N back.

I take Nightwing's distraction as a chance to get the upper hand. Being the asshole I am, I sweep Nightwing's feet out from under him. It's what he deserves and quite good karma. He stumbles back, landing on his back a couple of steps ahead of me.

No time is wasted as I start closing the gap between us. My gun feels heavy in my hand as I pull it out. Richard made his own grave trying to get between Y/N and me again, but that doesn't mean I like laying him in it. I watch as he grabs for one of his sticks as I tower over him. He can try all he wants but it won't stop me; nothing will stop me. Y/N will be safe from him, from Bruce, from the life I dragged her into it.

I level the barrel to his head debating if I should just end it here. It would be quite the message to Batman. "Lady don't!" A young voice screams out.

I glance up to find who else is present but before I can my eyes lock on Y/N. She's rushed and flustered as she races towards me. Before I can stop her, she's shoving the gun up towards the sky. "Don't shoot!" She shouts, her words followed by the sound of the gun going off.

Fear flickers through me before my senses come in. Y/N isn't shot, she can't be, the gun is pointed too high.

She stands in front of me, anger rooted in her eyes as she looks at me. There are flickers of green mixed in with her normal eye color. I take in the rest of her, letting my mind go silent as I look her over. Y/N has a strand of grey mixed in her hair, just like me. She has to be alive because of the Laza pit. She has the same greying hair and recent green added to her eyes, just like me. Mine were caused because of the pit, so hers have to be because of it too, right? Is she suffering from the same side effects I did because of the pit?

"What the fuck is your problem, you daft cow?" Y/N yells, tugging the weapon from my hand before I can stop her. I have to stop myself from laughing at the situation. It's too much like it was when we were younger. Dick and me going toe-to-toe and Y/N swooping in to break us up once again.

"Don't stand there and look dumb at me. What do you think you're doing?" She repeats herself, her attention turning towards the gun.

I shift to point it down, so she doesn't accidentally shoot herself, but she beats me to it. The barrel is pointed at the open pavement between our feet as her hands work on disconnecting the bullets from the gun.

Y/N's fingers look smooth and soft as they work. I want to touch them. I want to hold them in my hands. I want to press kisses into them. I want to touch her. I want to know she's real.

"I..." I start, my mouth feels heavy and suddenly full of cotton. "Hi." The word sounds loud when it tumbles out.

"Hello," Y/N says back, her eyes sparkling. The color I've grown so used to comforts me despite the newly added flickers of green. She's so bright and here and alive.

Her focus stays on me for a beat longer as she hands me back my gun. Our fingers bumping into each other, sending shivers up my spine. She's alive.

I let the feeling envelop me as my eyes switch from her face to staying locked on the shitty tattoo behind her ear. My mind is on overtime, running through a million questions even as Y/N moves up and down in front of me. I can hear her voice as she talks to Dick but it's hard to focus on processing her words.

My eyes snap back up as Y/N stands. She whispers something, the words lost in her uncomfortableness. Am I making her upset? Is Dick? I glance around her to hopefully see what shifted her tone. Since being distracted, Bruce's new Robin has appeared in front of us. Is he making her upset?

Y/N starts walking away, causing panic about losing her to wash over me. Before I can stop myself, I reach out for her, my hand wrapping around her arm to stop her movements. "Let..." I start again, my mouth still feeling dry, and it gets drier as Y/N turns towards me. "Let me walk you home." The words come out quieter than I thought they would.

Her eyes harden as she looks at me and shakes me off of her. "What the fuck is with all you superheroes? Two days ago, I had a frantic Batman shoving hundred-dollar bills into my hand. You have been trailing me for three blocks, you-" So she knows I was behind her? Does she know it's me? Does she not remember Bruce is Batman? What does she remember?

I shake my head again, trying to Etch-A-Sketch the thoughts out of my head. I focus my attention back on Y/N. Her hands are on her hips, her right one popped out. I want to touch her again. I want to put my hands on her hips. I want to feel her between my fingers. I want to feel her warmth against me. I want-

My thoughts are cut off again when Dick starts touching her. "I... Y/N?" Dick says his tone as quiet as mine was. All the love-struck feelings wash out of me and are replaced with anger and jealousy. I don't want him touching her. I should be touching her. She's mine. She's always been mine. What the fuck does Dick think he's doing?

"Good guess," Y/N answers, her figure relaxing some. Does she remember that Grayson is Nightwing? Why does she remember that but not that Bruce is Batman? Does she like him touching her?

"Y/N?" He repeats, his face scrunched up in confusion. He needs to stop touching her before I lose my shit.

Almost as if Y/N can read my thoughts, she shrugs him off and starts walking away again. "That's my name, don't wear it out." Her tune is light and happy, making butterflies flap around my stomach. Nightwing and I stay frozen, watching her slip out of the alleyway before vanishing from our sight.

Dick's attention turns back towards me. His eyes are watery. Apparently, I'm not the only secret Bruce has been keeping from him, how in tune for the bat. "What's next? You going to end up being Jason Todd?" He asks, a sad laugh following. It tinges my heart, almost making me regret being willing to kill him a few minutes ago.

I hum a bit, turning towards the direction Y/N went in as I think about what I'm going to do. I start heading after her before changing my mind. I know she's alive and in town. That's all that matters. It'll be best for her if I back off, give her time to think over the event, and give Dick time to tattle to Bruce so I can see how they'll react. I glance at Nightwing behind me before opening my mouth again, "We both know that Y/N being alive isn't the only secret Bruce Wayne is hiding from the world."

I let the words hang behind me as I walk away. Waiting to go after Y/N also gives me time to think over what I'm going to do. If she doesn't remember parts of her life - if any of it - I don't need to scare her away by coming off too strong.

———————————

My heart jumps around as I walk up the path from the other day. The neon lights are still obnoxious as fuck, but I don't mind. Y/N will be there. I know she will. I've been watching her, keeping tabs on her, getting the hang of her schedule. I know, I know, I know. I sound like a stalker. But it's not stalking. It's... intel collecting.

I know she'll be here. She works until nine-thirty, so unlike the other night, I come in earlier, so I have time to see her. Time to talk to her. I also know they're not too busy at night so the cafe will at least be mostly empty, if not completely deserted.

From my stalk- intel collecting, I know Dick came in earlier to talk to her. I don't know what they talked about though. I don't know if I want to know. It pissed me off seeing Dick with Y/N. Pissed me off seeing him touch her again. Pissed me off seeing the smile that stayed on her face even after she left the cafe for class.

What does Dick think he's doing? I'm not stupid or blind. Hell, even a blind man can see how down-hard Dick is for Y/N. Even when we were younger, he pretty much had hearts in his eyes anytime Y/N was around. She wanted me last time; she'll want me this time too... I think.

The jingle of the bell on the door competes with my heartbeat for space in my ears. Sitting in one of the bar chairs at the coffee island is Y/N. Scarecrow is next to her, helping her with her chemistry homework. I'm not thrilled about this arrangement but at least Y/N is getting the academic help she needs.

"Hello!" Y/N peeps out, sending a smile at me as her attention turns away from Scarecrow. Her eyes soften when she focuses on me. "It's you again."

"It's me again," I mumble, taking slow steps towards her.

Scarecrow stands up, placing himself between Y/N and me. He's always been a small man, even when I was a kid, but he seems even smaller nowadays. "Again?" He asks, trying to look intimidating. He's barely intimidating when he's in his suit, and definitely isn't when he's dressed like a civilian.

"Again," Y/N peeps up, her voice still airy and soft. The same voice that used to whisper sweet nothings into my ear until I fell asleep most nights. "Helmet man here walked me home after I argued with Penguin the other night."

"You got into an argument with Penguin?" Crow asks, turning his attention from me to Y/N. "What did he want?"

"You know, the usual. He wants me in debt to him for another body to do his bidding," She teases a soft smile on her face in an attempt to comfort Crow. Scarecrow shifts around a bit glancing at me a few times.

I step aside, standing next to the skinny man and joining him looking at Y/N. She's so pretty, even out of her style and in the dumb uniform for the cafe. "Can I buy you a coffee?" I ask her, slowly tugging my helmet off as well as making sure the mask under it stays in place. The last thing I need is Scarecrow knowing I'm Jason Todd.

"Look at you, pulling all the guys today," Crow half teases, sending glares my way.

"I guess so," Y/N says, her smile even bigger as she scans over my face. Maybe she does know who I am.

"I have something to deal with. Will you be okay if I leave?" Crow asks, his attention not being pulled from me.

"I'll be fine. I'm pretty confident that I can take him if need be." Y/N giggles at herself, pulling a soft chuckle from Crow as well. He nods at her before turning on his heels and walking off. "What do you want to drink?" She asks, standing up and sliding behind the counter.

"I'll have whatever you're going to have." She hums, starting to make whatever it is she's making. I watch her move around, my eyes drinking in every moment. Memories flow in and out as I watch her. Memories of her hands on me, her lips on me, of her laugh, of her. "What do you think he's off to go do?" I ask, being careful not to call him Scarecrow in case she doesn't know. It would be better if Y/N didn't know; it would be one less person to protect her from.

She hums, her hands working at pouring our drinks out. "He's probably going to go line the fog machines in the Iceberg with fear gas. He gets pretty pissy when Penguin fucks with the staff." So, she does know. Is that good or bad? Probably good in this situation. "Here you go," She murmurs, pushing my cup towards me before walking back around the counter with her drink.

Y/N slides back into her seat, patting the one next to her. I obey, sitting down. Her eyes stay locked on me, the flickers of green swirling around them as she stares. The space is quiet, the only sound being us sipping on our coffees. "Are you stalking me?" She asks, filling in the space and causing me to choke a bit.

My lungs force out a cough in an attempt to counteract my choking. Y/N's eyes stay locked on me, the green standing out as she watches. "I... no?" Why the fuck did that come out as a question? That's pretty counterproductive. "No, I'm not." That's better... maybe.

She hums again, sipping on her coffee as she thinks over my answer. "Defiantly seems like you're stalking me. Most people don't sneak around and follow me all day." Once again silence falls between us. How am I supposed to respond to that?

Y/N sits in silence, enjoying her coffee as she watches me. Even though I know she's suspicious of me, I still find comfort in her gaze. "I don't remember much of my life before six months ago so if I'm supposed to know you, I'm not avoiding you. I just don't know who you are, so you don't need to sneak around me; you just need to talk to me. Well, and be patient please." She says, being the one to break the silence again.

Oh... So, she doesn't know anything. That's... scary. For many reasons. "Is there anything you do remember?" I ask, gently pushing my coffee back and forth between my hands.

"Snip bits of stuff. Though some things have started coming back since I ran into Nightwing and you. Some more came back after my coffee chat with Richard Grayson too."

Don't fucking say his name. Don't say it. You should be saying my name. Should be remembering stuff because of me. Not because of fucking Dick. "Oh ya?" I peep out, glaring ahead of me at the menu instead of focusing my anger on Y/N.

"Mmhmm..." She falls silent, nodding her head back and forth as if she's trying to wiggle her thoughts around. "Helmet man-"

"Red Hood," I say, cutting her off with my correction.

I turn my attention back to her, being met with her eyes already on me. "You're my Jason, right?"

"Ya," I push out, suddenly finding it hard to breathe. The word 'my' repeats nonstop in my head, bouncing around my brain as I try to sort through my feelings of bliss.

"I think I love you," She whispers, her hand dipping back behind her ear to mess with her tattoo.

The bliss is all washed away once the words hit my ears. She thinks she loves me? Does she not remember loving me? Of course not, Y/N doesn't remember anything. Well, at least a small piece of her remembers me. Remembers me enough to know she's supposed to love me and that's good enough. There's enough hope there for me to build on.

"Well, I know I love you," I whisper back, keeping my eyes on her to see her reaction. She's still looking at me, her eyes shining.

She hums a bit, tilting her head as she scans me again. "Can I take your mask off?" Y/N asks, her hands slow and gentle as they slide over my cheeks and come into contact with the mask covering my eyes.

"Ya."

Her fingers are soft as they snap off my mask. The joy drains from me as the warmth from her touch is removed. "Your eyes are green... I remember them being blue," Y/N says, her fingertips soon back on my cheeks.

I can feel my cheeks heating up, both from a blush and the hands present on my skin. "They used to be, now they're green." Y/N hums, running her fingers over my cheekbones before sliding them into my hair. I let my eyes close, soaking in her touches. It's calming, being able to be so close to her again, feeling her touch me again, feeling proof that she's alive. I lean forward a bit, getting close enough to feel Y/N's soft breathing coat my face. "Can..." Asking to kiss her might be a little much right now. Maybe I shouldn't ask.

"Can you what?" Y/N prompts, her hands dropping down to my shoulders.

My eyes snap open and once again they're met with the familiar color and the newly added flickers of green. Why did she only get slivers and mine completely changed color? "Can I take you on a date?" I finally ask, shifting a bit so our noses are touching. God, I want to kiss her. I want to hold her. I want her in every way possible. It's going to kill me having to work back up to that.

"I'd like that, Jason."

Yes. God, yes. "Say my name again," I mumble, rubbing my nose against hers.

"Jason," She whispers, bopping my nose with her own before pulling away from me.

———————————

Butterflies flap around my stomach, threatening to come up in a not-pretty way. My hands shake as I lift one to knock on the door of Y/N's apartment. The knocking feels loud as I do it. Maybe I knocked too loud.

The door swings open soon after, the door frame filling with the image of Y/N. She's dressed up with her hair down to cup her face. "Hi," I breathe out, my eyes drinking her in. She's so pretty, so perfect, so alive.

"Hello," she answers back, her eyes glancing at my hand. "You got me flowers?" Y/N asks, leaning against the door frame.

"Oh ya," I bark out, definitely too loud, as I push the bouquet toward her. I couldn't decide what flowers to get so I ended up getting three different bouquets and had the lady mix them. "Your favorite flowers are orange roses, but I didn't know if you still liked them or not, so I panicked and got more flowers than you probably need or want." That was dumb. Why did I say that? I feel like a thirteen-year-old with his first crush again.

"I still like orange roses," Y/N tells me, taking the flowers from me before walking back through the door. I follow after her, making sure to close the door behind me. Her apartment is small but cozy. There's not much in her home either but I guess that's expected since Y/N doesn't know herself.

There is a small couch and one of those old, bulky, shitty TVs tucked into her living room. The apartment smells nice, like pork and chili pepper. A million different dishes are stacked up around her countertop in the kitchen. "What are you making?" I ask her, sliding my jacket off before laying it on the couch.

"I'm making Pozole. I remember you liking it. Or I think you liked it. Somebody did at least," She mumbles a bit, keeping her attention to the pot on the stove in front of her.

"I like pozole. Alfred and you used to make it for me all the time."

Y/N's eyes light up at my words, making my chest fill with the warmth of joy. I walk into the cramped kitchen, making sure to stay out of her way as I stand in her presence. I watch her like a hawk as she works away, letting the warmth of the stove and the smell of dinner fill the space between us. For the first time in two years, I finally feel okay, finally feel at peace.

"You didn't answer my question the other day," I voice, sliding in closer to her. I want to hold her; I want to wrap my arms around her waist. I debate it for a second. I don't want to scare her off.

"What question?" Y/N asks, glancing at me before turning back to her project at hand.

"Is there anything you remember from our - er - your life?"

Y/N snaps the heat off, continuing to stir the pot as she thinks it over. "There's not a lot I do remember. I'm starting to remember this dude named Wally, I think. I don't know. I'm going to talk to Dick about him tomorrow. I remember a bit about Dick too but not much. I remember a bit about you... about us." Her eyes glance at me, before turning back to our dinner. She picks up some heat absorbers, wrapping them around the pot before setting it on a cutting board on the counter.

She's talking to Dick? About her memories? Or lack thereof, I guess. I don't want her talking to him. What's he going to say to her? What has he already said to her? What ideas is he putting into Y/N's head? Has Dick tried anything with her?

"What do you remember about us?" I ask, trying to push for more information as I try to forget my worried thoughts.

Y/N floats around the kitchen, taking out dishes for our food. My eyes trail her as she moves around the small space. "Umm... I remember us kissing a lot."

I chuckle a bit at that response. We do - did kiss a lot. We did other things a lot too. "Ya, ya we kissed a lot. We were very... touchy." Y/N giggles a bit as she makes our plates. My eyes keep glancing from her face to her hips. I really want to touch her. Before I can stop myself, I push off the counter I'm leaning on and wrap her up in me. My hands are firm on her hips and her back is pressed into my chest as I bury my head into her neck.

Y/N stiffens a bit in my hold before relaxing her muscles again. "We danced a lot too," I mumble into her neck, softly shifting her hips so we can sway together. She sways with me, her body weight feeling so good against mine. "You liked to read out loud to me too."

"Do you not know how to read?" She teases, shifting in my hold so we're face to face.

"I know how to read, I just read too slow for your liking."

"Oh ya?"

"Absolutely not, I just like your voice," I answer, lifting my head from her neck and placing our noses next to each other.

Y/N's hands slide up my arms, resting on my shoulders. "Our favorite book is The Great Gatsby, ya?"

My heart swells a bit at her words. "Ya, it is," I whisper, trying to focus my eyes on hers instead of her lips. It doesn't work so I decide to close my eyes, letting myself focus on her body heat instead. We stay silent, sitting like this, with me holding her. I could stay like this forever.

"Could you kiss me?" Y/N mumbles, shifting in my hold.

My eyes snap open, taking in her face. I roll the words over in my head. I already thought holding her was much for a "first date" and now she's asking me to kiss her? Maybe this is a trap. Maybe I'm making her feel like we have to move fast. Maybe Al Ghul is fucking with my head somehow. "Why?" I peep out, loosening my grip on her.

"Well, my therapist says doing stuff I used to do can help with my memories coming back. We were together ya?"

"Ya, we still are." Her face pinches some as her body stiffens again. Maybe I shouldn't have said that. It isn't fair of me to expect a relationship from Y/N. She doesn't even know who she is, let alone who I am.

"Well, I thought maybe kissing you again would help. We don't have to-"

"I really want to kiss you," I say, cutting her off, and tightening my grip on her again. Y/N's hands slide to the back of my neck, her fingers shaking a bit against my skin but her body relaxes again. "Close your eyes," I mumble, sliding my nose against hers again.

Y/N obeys, fluttering her eyes shut. I take my time, trailing kisses across her nose, her eyes, and her cheeks, before placing myself above her mouth. I soak this scene in for a second before closing the gap between us. Her lips are soft against mine and taste like mint gum.

I shift my hands up, cupping her neck with one and softly dipping the other into her hair. All my need and want and love is boiled into the kiss. Our lips shift against each other for a while, the kiss getting heated way more than it meant.

As my lungs start burning, Y/N pulls back, making me a bit sad. I'd gladly suffocate to death from her kiss. "Jason," She murmurs, her words a little slurred.

"Say it again," I whisper back, tilting my head so our lips are close again.

"Jason," She mutters again. Her lips brush against mine as she speaks.

Fucking Christ. This is too hot, too heated, too much for her right now but I can't stop thinking about hearing her whisper my name all night. "I can't wait for you to fall in love with me again," I say, keeping my tone at a whisper as I glance over her face.

"Why is that?" Y/N asks, her fingers tangling into my hair.

"Because I still love you so fucking much."

———————————————————————

[singularattitudeofasafetypin]

The Damsel and the Dungeon Master

Masterlist

Summary: After losing a bet, Eddie makes Reader dress up and play the princess in his newest campaign. Furious, she plots a way to get back at him, but she'll need the help of one of the party! Does Eddie have a traitor in his midst, and does their rivalry hide deeper feelings?

Word Count: 4.3K ish

Warnings: none that I can think of!

A/N: Disclaimer that I've never played Dnd so there's probably a tonne of things I get wrong but oh well! I'm a Brit so anything I get wrong about America, that's why!

I really liked writing this! I hope you guys enjoy reading it!

Please don't copy my work

If someone had asked you that morning what you’d be doing later, you’d never have guessed, ‘Standing in the costume cupboard of Hawkins High Drama Club, watching your worst enemy rifling through its contents like a mad man,’ would be the answer.

It started the way all stupid things did: with a bet.

You’d graduated from Hawkins High two years ago now but when Mrs Williams had called you in a frenzy, begging for help wrangling the new generation of thespians for the school musical, you couldn’t say no. So here you sat, watching the late-night rehearsal fall to pieces, trying to whip it back into shape.

That was until your arch nemesis walked in. Eddie Munson burst through the door like he owned the place and started rooting around the corners of the room. You tried not to pay attention, fixing your eyes on the scene being performed. ‘He’s probably left something from his silly boardgame,’ you thought, huffing that the drama club were still being forced to share their space.

You’d been protesting the arrangement since the club formed in your freshman year, but each time you were met with failure and an infuriatingly smug smile. Hundreds of arguments had to be broken up by your respective cohorts throughout your high school years, the two of you red faced and spitting venomous insults. Still, he refused to budge.

Graduating was supposed to mean you never had to see his arrogant face again. Trust your luck!

‘No! No, come on guys!’ you clapped, stopping the trainwreck of a scene in its tracks, ‘We’ve rehearsed this!’

Busy directing the kids, you didn’t see Eddie freeze at the sound of your voice, turning slowly to follow it. His mouth split into a grin. Once you sat down, he bounded over, ‘Long time, no see!’ he crowed, throwing his arm around you like you were best friends.

He sniggered when you jumped. ‘There’s a reason for that, Munson!’ you shoved his arm off your shoulder, shooting him a look of pure disgust. ‘From the top!’ you snapped at the kids, a little harsher than you’d meant to

He clutched his heart, dropping into the next but one seat and retching as though you’d mortally wounded him, ‘So mean!’ he whined, ‘I thought you liked me!’

‘Shut up!’

‘Come on, I thought you had a flare for the dramatic!’ he teased, getting up in your face, only laughing when you elbowed him sharply between the ribs.

You refused to look at him. Maybe if you just ignored him, he’d disappear?

It didn’t work; it never did!

The rehearsal wore on and Eddie sat next to you the whole time. Everything seemed to be going wrong tonight! You and Mrs Williams were at your wits end and there he was, snickering and whispering to you like it was all a massive joke!

When you sat back down after fixing some blocking, he leant over and murmured, ‘I bet you Katie bungles her solo!’

You scoffed, ‘No way!’ Despite all the setbacks, that was one thing you were comfortable with. Katie had had that song down since week two.

 He shrugged, ‘If you’re so sure then bet on it!’

You hesitated, attention split between your protegees and your enemy. An idea crossed your mind. It wasn’t at all professional, but this could be your chance. Sweet revenge was right at your fingertips. It was too much to resist.

‘Fine!’ you conceded, ‘She doesn’t mess up and you have to find some other place for your stupid club! Give us our room back, permanently!’

Eddie looked surprised, ‘You’re still mad about that?’ He laughed at you, making you hate him even more.

‘Name your terms, Munson!’ you huffed.

His eyes sparkled at that, like you’d just walked right into his trap. ‘If she messes up,’ he said slowly, voice silky smooth, ‘You have to dress up and play the princess for my stupid clubs next campaign!’

‘You can’t be serious!’

He spread his hands, ‘What? You’re chickening out? I thought you were certain!’ he mimicked, waving air quotes.

You weighed the options, but he wasn’t nervous. Manipulating you was easy as breathing! Eventually you took the bait. ‘Deal!’

Stupid! Stupid! Idiot!

Of course, tonight had to be the one time her voice broke. It wavered on a note she’d been practicing for weeks! Months! Your face fell a thousand feet and a mile wide grin stretched Eddie’s mouth.

Cut to you, arms folded, face burning with shame, watching Eddie rummage through the cupboard, trying to find you a costume.

‘I know it’s here somewhere!’ He grunted and groaned then gave a shout of triumph. You cringed as he stood, presenting the crumpled pink monstrosity he’d selected for your torture.

The dress had been used for the ’82 production of Romeo and Juliet but had been bought before your time. Quality, the finest a small-town high school drama department could afford. It was limp, ragged and devoid of structure with scratchy lace around the square neckline. Faux lacing ran down the bodice and the skirt gave the illusion of a mid-renaissance split front.

Eddie threw it over your arm, diving back into the mess. ‘You can’t be serious!’ you grumbled.

‘Deadly!’ he said over his shoulder, ‘And I thought we had…I know it’s here somewhere- ha!’ he straightened, holding a cone shaped hat in matching pink, with tatty gold ribbons hanging pathetically from the point.

‘No!’ you shook your head, ‘Absolutely not!’

‘Come on!’ he wheedled.

‘I’m not wearing the stupid hat, Munson! No way!’

***

‘Welcome valiant adventurers!’ Eddie spread his arms, heralding the party as they entered. Their usual table was set up, lights dimmed and mysterious and candles, which were definitely not allowed in school, flickered on either side of Eddie’s throne. Concealed behind a curtain at Eddie’s instruction, you contemplated your shame. The Hellfire banner leered down, taunting you and your wretched defeat.

‘Disaster had fallen the quaint kingdom of Knaerwood! An evil sorcerer had kidnapped the fair princess, Esmeralda, threatening destruction on her homeland!’

He paused, expectantly. ‘Hey! That’s your cue!’

Rolling your eyes and wishing for death, you stepped out of the shadows. The group stifled gasps at the sight of you, creased pink skirts trailing around your ankles and, yes, ribbons dangling from that ridiculous hat.

‘Oh noblemen! Knights of the realm!’ you cried in a monotone, rolling your eyes, ‘Pray won’t you rescue me from the malevolent clutches of-,’ you squinted at the smudged ink on your hand, ‘Uronin?’

No one knew where to look. The younger members knew of you through Mike’s sister and the older from the countless rows they’d dragged Eddie away from. One thing they all knew without a doubt was you wouldn’t touch D&D with a ten-foot pole.

You folded your arms, glaring at them, daring them to utter a single word. None of them did but Gareth and Dustin had to cover their mouths to hide giggles.

‘I don’t know!’ Gareth managed, ‘She looks like she’d rather kill Uronin herself!’

You shot daggers and he flinched.

‘What say you men?’ Eddie ignored all of you, ‘Will you undertake the quest to save the poor, defenceless princess?’ he made sappy faces at you with each word, making you want to scream with anger. How was this so much worse than you imagined?

‘Well, I for one will never leave a fellow maiden in peril!’ Lucas’s younger sister spoke up. She nodded at you in solidarity, ‘I will take the quest!’ At least she seemed sympathetic to your pain, or was that just her character?

The others promptly took up the task with theatrical pledges of chivalry.

The next two hours were hell. Eddie made you act the helpless princess, shaking his head and giving patronizing direction when he wasn’t satisfied with your performance. ‘Ham it up a bit!’ he instructed, catching your arm, ‘You’re an actress! You should be good at this!’

You wanted to kill him.

When at last the torment ended, you ripped the hat from your head, breathing a sigh of relief. It was over!

Wordlessly, you began to help clear away, nightmare flashes of how you used to find the drama room left on a Monday morning coming back to you. The others filed out and Eddie stuffed his binder under his arm, slinging his bag over his shoulder, ‘See you next week!’ He said with a smile.

Your blood ran cold, ‘What?’

He looked back, a confused frown marred his features, ‘Oh, you… didn’t think this was it?’ Your jaw tightened. ‘They’re nowhere near rescuing you, Esmeralda!’ he simpered.

‘This is gonna be eight weeks at least!’

***

It was torture.

You had to admit, Eddie was a wonderful storyteller. The way he narrated was so animated and unlike anything you’d ever seen. If you didn’t loathe him so much, he could have been an invaluable asset to the drama club. He was so invested in the world he’d created; it was infectious. The party hung onto every word, lapping it up, and Eddie got this mad glint in his eye like he was drunk on the performance.

Unfortunately, that didn’t make the following weeks any less mortifying. Just when you’d think it couldn’t get worse, he’d hand you the script he’d scrawled for the next session, and you’d die a little more.

By week four, you’d had enough. You couldn’t just take this lying down! There had to be something you could do to get back at him!

That night, as you sat listlessly during the session, waiting your turn to embarrass yourself when the perfect revenge plan presented itself. Your eyes flicked to Eddie as though afraid he could hear your thoughts. He didn’t react, in the middle of some spiel about armour classes or something.

Forcing yourself to relax outwardly so he wouldn’t suspect, your mind got to work. You weren’t positive it would work, and you definitely couldn’t accomplish it alone. You needed an ally, one right under Eddie’s nose.

‘Hey, princess!’ he snapped his fingers in front of your face. You jolted out of your head. ‘That was your cue! Let’s go!’

Oh, you were so going to get him back!

***

Lucas Sinclair’s younger sister had a mouth on her. Though she was the youngest of the party and the only one not in high school, she was more than a match for any of them. Including Eddie.

Her poison-soaked kukri wasn’t her only weapon, she was the only one able to go toe to toe in an argument with the dungeon master, and more often than not, she got her own way. You also suspected her to be sympathetic to your plight if your first session was anything to go by. She would often roll her eyes and begin harassing Eddie whenever he grated on you too hard.

It was now or never! You ran to catch her once the session was over, leaving the drama room in a mess and Eddie calling after you.

‘Hey!’ you panted, skidding to a halt when she stopped, ‘Erica, right?’

She raised an eyebrow, ‘Who wants to know?’ Lucas yelled for her to hurry up and she shot a sarcastic remark over her shoulder. ‘What do you want?’ she asked pointedly, looking back to you.

‘I uh-.’

She was like three foot tall! How was this kid so intimidating?

 ‘I need your help!’ you begged, ‘Please, I can’t take much more of this! Munson’s killing me in there! I need your help to get back at him!’

She looked sceptical; her eyes narrowed. You crossed your fingers behind your back. ‘What’s in it for me?’

‘What?’

‘You heard me! What’s in it for Erica?’

You spluttered. Whatever happened to ‘not leaving a fellow maiden in peril?’ ‘Well, what do you want?’

She tilted her head to the side, tapping her jaw, pretending to think for a while. ‘Hmm… Stop trying to take away the drama room!’ she demanded, hand moving to her hip.

That surprised you. You didn’t even think she’d know about that!

‘You should know what it’s like to get pushed away!’ she continued poking a finger at you, ‘You drama kids aren’t exactly in with the popular crowd either! We’re not so different, so stop trying to get rid of us!’

You were taken aback, guilt suddenly flooding in. In all your years of protesting Hellfire, you’d never stopped to think how they might feel about that. You bit the inside of your cheek, hanging your head sheepishly, realising how hypocritical you were.

Theatre was something you loved dearly and wanted to protect from those who didn’t understand or ridiculed it. But at its core, wasn’t theatre about unity? ‘There are no small roles, only small actors!’ That was something you’d been told from day one and was now teaching to the new generation. Everyone in a cast mattered, from the lead to the youngest ensemble member, no matter what! It was a family. And there you’d been, pushing this group away because you deemed them unworthy.

You’d seen the way they played their roles. They loved their characters and the stories so much. All this time you could have been working together. How had it taken six years and a middle-schooler’s words to make you see that?

‘Okay fine, I’m sorry,’ you muttered. ‘Now would you please help me?’

Erica smiled triumphantly, holding out a hand. You shook it.

‘What did you have in mind?’

***

Hellfire became almost bearable after that day.

Watching Eddie poke fun at you, still believing he had the upper hand was exhilarating. His jibes stung less knowing that one of his own had betrayed him. He had no idea the storm that was coming.

The two of you met in secret. You brought back information you’d snatched from glancing at Eddie’s notes when he wasn’t looking, and she began to coach you in the art of Dungeons and Dragons.

It was Gareth you had to thank for the idea. Way back when you began, his suggestion that you wanted to kill the wizard yourself had made you wonder, why not? Why the hell not?

Thankfully, Lucas was too busy with basketball, he didn’t have time to notice you dashing into his sister’s room with wads of paper and notebooks.

Erica helped you fill out your character sheet, careful to pay attention to the notes Eddie had for you already. That way he hadn’t a leg to stand on if he tried to argue. She took you through the endless number of rules, teaching you the names of different monsters and playing one shot campaigns to level you up.

By the time the final session rolled around, Erica was satisfied you were ready.

‘Are you sure?’

Doubt suddenly flooded in. What if it wasn’t enough? You only had one shot at this!

She placed a hand on your shoulder, looking you dead in the eye, ‘Kick his butt, Esmeralda!’

You gave a small smile and she nodded before Eddie entered. You broke apart, trying to look innocent. He couldn’t suspect anything! His eyes flicked between you, focusing, but before he could ask any questions, the rest of the party trooped in, laughing excitedly about the grand finale of the campaign. Oh, if only they knew!

You took your seat, next to Eddie’s, practically vibrating with excitement and anticipation. The party battled through a final horde of monsters; it was almost time.

‘The final orc lets out an ear-piercing roar then drops down… dead!’ Eddie recited, throwing himself back onto his throne to imitate the monster. He leaned forward, ‘The door at the end of the corridor creaks open, revealing the desperate princess. Eddie gave you a nod. Erica barely concealed a smile.

You stood, dramatically clasping your heart. ‘Oh, noble adventurers come to my rescue! How could I ever thank you?’ you really went for it this time. From the corner of your eye, Eddie watching you with a look of awe. Pressing the back of your hand to your forehead you declared, ‘In all the ages of this world, there is no reward that could match your bravery!’

‘But then,’ Eddie cut in throwing his hand out to stop you and kneeling halfway onto the table, ‘a whirling storm of smoke arises!  Out of the shadows, he materialises! The evil lord Uronin!’

The party let out cries of fear and alarm. Eddie cackled, ‘He stands between you and the princess! His staff drawn, it’s light growing brighter by the second!’

Before he could say another word, you slammed a character sheet down on the table. ‘I pull a knife from within my skirts and stab him in the back!’

The room fell silent. Eddie stared at you, sitting back on his heels. His smile faltered. You held his gaze and realisation seemed to dawn on him.

‘No way!’ Gareth exclaimed, open mouthed.

‘You never said she was gonna play!’ Mike interjected.

‘Dude, epic reveal!’ Henderson laughed with delight.

Eddie didn’t say anything. His eyes didn’t move from yours. They were unreadable. In the dim light, they looked like black beetles. They flickered with the reflection of candlelight, as though they too were on fire. You stood your ground, goading him to make his move. Something in his expression changed. He handed you a die, ‘Roll for damage!’ You took it and he caught your wrist. ‘You’re on!’ he breathed.

You’d never been more nervous in your life. Playing for the first time in a group was nerve-wracking enough but these were incredibly experienced competitors. By all accounts, Eddie was the toughest dungeon master there was, and he had no intention of going easy on you.

Erica had your back. She shouted instruction above the ruckus that resulted and you were always careful to follow. Eddie noticed. Realisation hit; an underhanded mutiny had taken place within his own ranks! A scowl creased his brow. He amped up his game.

Wave after wave of monsters attacked. You were pretty sure Eddie was just improvising now. He wasn’t going to go down without a fight.

‘That’s ridiculous!’ you protested, after a particularly cruel ruling.

He shrugged, smug smile plastered across his face, ‘That’s the game sweetheart!’

‘No it’s not! He rolled 18! With his multipliers-!’

‘I get the final say!’ he interrupted, pushing himself out of his seat.

‘You aren’t being fair!’ you shot back, following suit.

‘Tough luck!’

‘If you aren’t going to play properly!’

‘You know what, princess?’

‘What?’

His jaw tightened. You were practically nose to nose, so close you could feel his hot breath on your cheek. Eddie bit his tongue, falling silent. His eyes flitted, almost imperceptibly to your lips as he wet his own and something deeper than fury ignited inside you. Blind rage became floundering confusion. Your breath became shallow. All at once, you were noticing the lines between his brows when he frowned, the way his bottom lip jutted out and quivered just a little, the hard curve of his jaw, the dark intensity of his eyes…

‘If you two lovebirds are done?’ Erica cut in, ‘I search for a way to cave in the passageway!’

Eddie tore away and sat down. You forced those feelings down and tried to focus on the game. He hardly looked at you for the rest of the session. Your head was reeling, trying to make sense of the altercation. A red flush crept its way up your neck; you tried to keep it together.

What had he meant by looking at you like that! What had you meant, thinking all those things? What did any of it mean?

And for the first time, somewhere deep down in your heart, you worried you’d struck a nerve.

***

It was a close call, but the party came through. Eddie recounted the final parts of the story amid cheers of victory. They left their seats, chatting and celebrating for at least another half hour before beginning to head home.

Triumphantly, you threw your princess hat across the room. Eddie smiled to himself but you didn’t see.

You thanked Erica quietly, ‘Worth every second!’ she smirked, ‘Or nearly!’ You felt your cheeks grow warm again, warmer still at the voice behind you.

‘So, you’re the mutinous traitor?’ Eddie came out of nowhere, slouching between you with an arm on either of your shoulders.

‘All I did was stand up to an oppressive regime! And come to the aid of a damsel in distress!’ she retorted, making him laugh. The sound was low in his throat, filled with fondness. You couldn’t help but want to hear it again. He didn’t seem angry that one of his flock had betrayed him, in fact he seemed quite proud.

Erica bid farewells and followed Lucas out to where their mom waited in the car. It was then you realised how quickly the room had emptied.

You and Eddie were alone.

He held out his hand, ‘Well played!’ he said, his tone completely genuine. You shook it awkwardly. It was weird to talk without sarcasm. Maybe you liked it?

‘Thanks.’

‘You completely cheated,’ he added (there it was), ‘but well played!’

‘I did not cheat!’ you jerked your hand away, indignation sparking up again.

‘Did so!’

‘Did not!’

For once Eddie gave in, shaking his head with a smile. ‘What did Sinclair get out of this anyway?’ he asked, turning to start tidying up. What was happening? Eddie never started tidying up first! ‘She never does anything for free!’ he went on, ‘She’s really into this Capitalism thing, try’na knock it out of her!’ He gave another one of those slight laughs making your stomach turn over.

You hesitated, wondering if you should tell the truth. The source of all your rivalry had been her price. Would he lord it over you? Would he be mad you gave it up for her when you’d spent forever refusing him? Either way, it felt scarily close to admitting defeat.

With a heavy breath you muttered, ‘She said I had to stop trying to kick you guys out!’

Eddie stopped, ‘Wait, really?’ He couldn’t believe what he was heard.

You nodded at the floor, biting the inside of your cheek in attempt to stop hot embarrassment from taking hold. ‘She said I ought to know better, you know, with the drama kids not being popular either.’ You let out a breathy chuckle, ‘She said maybe we aren’t so different after all.’

‘What, stubborn?’ Eddie grinned, stepping closer.

You looked up at him, with a tentative smile, ‘Arrogant!’ you offered, raising an eyebrow.

‘Self-centred?’

‘Impulsive,’ you breathed. There you were again. You didn’t know how it happened so fast: faces so close it wouldn’t be hard to lean forward and…

He sensed your uncertainty. A tender smile tugged at the corner of his mouth, growing wider when he saw it mirrored on yours. After all this time, all this arguing, he had to ask himself if this was what it was all for? Maybe all of your quarrels, all of your disagreements had been leading up to this? Maybe at the heart of it all, this was what you really meant by-

‘Sorry I forgot my- woah!’

You jumped apart as Mike burst through the doors and yelped in panic.

‘Wheeler!’ Eddie seethed. The boy was trembling like a leaf.

‘Did I… interrupt… something?’

You held your breath, wincing at the rush of feelings crawling under your skin. Eddie looked fit to burst.

‘Scram!’

He grabbed his hoodie and bucked it, leaving the doors to swing and crash shut behind him. Eddie swore under his breath and went back to clearing the table. You didn’t move for a while, an unfamiliar twinge of regret shot through your heart.

Electricity charged the air, like static before a thunderstorm. Your heart pounded, grappling for understanding. Without thinking, you stepped forward just as Eddie turned around, almost falling into you. Nose to nose again, this time, you closed the gap.

Balling your fists in his shirt and reaching on tiptoe, you kissed him. He froze up. Time stopped and reality took a while to catch up with him. Then his hand found its way into your hair and he relaxed, drinking you in like he was dying of thirst.

A second later, you broke apart. Eddie breathed heavily, trying to replace the air you’d just knocked out of him. He had stars in his eyes, still not able to process what happened. It was like everything suddenly made sense. An unspoken recognition passed between you before he kissed you again. Cupping your cheek, he fumbled to set the miniatures he’d gathered back on the table so he could hold you in both hands. Yours tightened in the fabric of his shirt, pulling him still closer.

Too soon, he broke again but stayed close. Forehead pressed to yours, he laughed quietly, that same low sound that sent butterflies careening through your tummy. When your eyes met, his open mouth stretched to a smile, ‘I knew you liked me!’

‘Don’t push your luck, Munson!’ you mumbled, reaching to kiss him again and again laughing between them.

‘Never!’ he grinned, obliging you, ‘Never! Never! Never!’

You tired yourself out, incessant kissing turned to a breathless embrace. Eddie’s eyes were closed, like if he opened them, it would turn out to all be a dream. A beautiful dream.

‘Hey,’ you murmured, waiting until he met your gaze. You raised an eyebrow, ‘So do I get one of those cool t-shirts now?’

Eddie pressed a kiss to your smile, taking you all in, ‘I don’t know, princess,’ he smirked, ‘I think your outfit’s pretty perfect already!’

You slapped his chest and he laughed, hooking an arm around your waist and pulling you in once more.

***

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Madness - Chapter 13

Hi, everybody. I hope you all had a pleasent Easter! Now, we continue our story. Threshing is just starting. It's a really short chapter, I'm sorry, guys. :( But I plan to post the next one on Saturday.

There is nothing quite as humbling, or as awe-inspiring, as witnessing Threshing…for those who live through it anyway.

—Colonel Kaori’s Field Guide to Dragonkind

October first is always Threshing.

Monday, Wednesday, or Sunday, it doesn’t matter where it falls on any given year. On the first of October, the first-year cadets of the Riders Quadrant enter the bowl-shaped forested valley to the southwest of the citadel and pray they come out alive.

I will not die today.

I didn’t bother eating this morning, and I pity Ethan, who’s currently heaving up the contents of his stomach against a tree to my right.

A sword is strapped to my back, the hilt jostling against my spine as I bounce, stretching my arms across my chest one at a time.

“Remember to listen here,” Professor Kaori says from in front of the 147 of us here, tapping his chest. “If a dragon has already selected you, they’ll be calling.” He thumps his chest again. “So pay attention to not just your surroundings but your feelings, and go with them.” He grimaces. “And if your feelings are telling you to go in the other direction…listen to that, too.”

“Which one are you going for?” Liam asks quietly.

“I don’t know.” I shake my head. At this point, Mira knew she wanted to seek out Teine.

“You memorized the cards, right?” He asks, lifting his brows. “So you know what’s out there?”

“Yes. I just don’t feel connected to any of them.” I shrug. “And what about you? Do you have this ‘feeling’?”

“I don’t know. Maybe.” He says. “I thought I felt something.”

“Which one was it?” I smile at him. He totally deserves to be chosen.

“One of the reds.” He grins. “I felt strange when you dated with the greens.”

“Hey! It wasn’t a date. I really thought that I’m done for good.” I narrow my eyes at him.

“Yeah, I shouldn’t have called it a date. I don’t want to upset a certain wingleader.” He winks.

“Liam!” I hiss and elbow him in the ribs.

And he just laughs. God, he’s annoying. A little. But I like him.

We’ve only seen professors this morning, but I know the second- and third-year riders are scattered throughout this valley in order to observe.

„If you go in groups, you’re more likely to be incinerated than bonded,” Professor Kaori argues with someone near the center of the valley. “The scribes have run the statistics. You’re better off on your own.”

“And what if we aren’t chosen by dinner?” a man with a short beard to my left asks.

Looking past him, I catch Jack Barlowe running a finger across his neck at Violet. So original. Then Oren, Rio and Tynan flank his sides.

So much for squad loyalty. It’s everyone for themselves today.

I better watch them. They’re a nasty group.

“If you’re not chosen by nightfall, there’s a problem,” Professor Kaori responds, his thick mustache turned down at the ends. “You’ll be brought out by a professor or senior leadership, so don’t give up and think we’ve forgotten about you.” He checks his pocket watch. “Remember to spread out and use every foot of this valley to your advantage. It’s nine, which means they should be flying in any minute now. The only other words I have for you are ‘good luck.’” He nods, sweeping his gaze over the crowd of us with such intensity that I know he’ll be able to re-create this moment in a projection.

Then he leaves, marching up the hill to our right and disappearing into the trees.

My mind whirls. It’s time. I’ll either leave this forest as a rider…or likely never leave.

“Be careful.” Liam pulls me into a hug and he tightens his arms around me.

“You too.” I squeeze him back and am immediately swept into another pair of arms.

“Don’t die!” Ethan orders.

That’s our only goal as what’s left of our squad separates, each heading in our own direction like we’ve been flung apart by centrifugal motion, at the mercy of a spinning wheel.

***

Guessing by the position of the sun, it’s been at least a couple of hours since the dragons flew overhead, landing in the valley in a succession that sounded like thunder and making the earth shake.

I’ve come across two greens, a brown, four oranges, and—

My heart stumbles and my feet freeze to the forest floor as a red steps into my field of vision, its head just under the canopy of enormous trees.

This is not my dragon. I’m not sure how I know, but I do.

I hold my breath, trying not to make a sound as its head sweeps right, then left, and my gaze plummets to the ground as I bow my head.

For the last hour or so, I’ve seen dragons launch into the air with a cadet—now a rider—on their back, but I’ve also seen more than a couple of plumes of smoke, and I have no desire to be one of those.

The dragon huffs a breath, then continues along its path, its daggertail flicking upward and catching one of the lower-hanging branches. The limb falls to the ground with a monstrous crash, and only after the footsteps recede do I finally raise my head.

I’ve now come across every color of dragon, and none of them has spoken to me or given me the sense of connection we’re reportedly supposed to feel.

My stomach sinks. What if I’m one of the cadets who’s destined to never become a rider? One who’s thrown back time and again to restart first year until eventually something puts me on the death roll? Has this all been for nothing?

I don’t want to die. I don’t want to be useless. I don’t want to be seperated from my friends.

I feel happy with them. For the first time in my life I feel important. And I don’t want to lose them. Liam. Violet. Ethan. Not even Xaden, despite our strange relationship.

The thought is too heavy to carry.

Maybe if I could just see the valley, then I’d get a feeling like Professor Kaori was talking about.

I spot the nearest climbable tree and get to work, scaling branch after branch. Pretty sure the higher branches aren’t going to support my weight, so I stop about three-quarters to the top and survey the immediate area.

There are a few greens in plain sight to my left, standing out against the fall foliage. Oddly enough, this is the one time of year when oranges, browns, and reds have the highest chance of blending in. I watch the trees for movement and spot a couple more directly south, but there’s no pull, no aching need to head in that direction, which probably means those aren’t mine, either.

Relief hits me embarrassingly hard when I count at least half a dozen first-years wandering aimlessly. I shouldn’t be so happy that they haven’t found their dragons, either, but at least I’m not the only one, which gives me hope.

There’s a clearing to the north, and my eyes narrow as a flash, like a mirror, catches the sun.

Or like a golden dragon.

Guess the little feathertail is still out here appeasing its curiosity.

There’s another movement. There’s a woman with wihitis hair. Violet.

Then I spot three man entering the clearing.

Shit. They must be Jack and his group.

I climb down and keep my footsteps silent and race across the forest floor as fast as I can.

I am thankful I grew up playing hide-and-seek with Violet in the woods. This is one area of expertise I can confidently claim.

The clearing is closer than I realized, so I kick up my speed, my gaze darting between the leaf-covered path I’ve chosen and where I think they are.

The meadow is big enough for ten dragons, ringed by several large trees, but the golden one stands alone in the center, in front of the dragon is Violet.

I was right. The group I saw was Jack’s. They surrounded Violet.

Four man against Violet, and a dragon. Probably a baby if based on it’s size.

I feel my anger rising. I will kill them.

I unsheathe my sword but before I can say anything or take a step, I hear a low threatening voice.

„I would strongly recommend you rethink your actions,” a voice—his voice—demands from across the field.

My scalp prickles as each of our heads swivel in his direction.

Xaden is leaning against the tree, his arms folded across his chest, and behind him, watching with narrowed golden eyes, her fangs exposed, is Sgaeyl, his terrifyingly beautiful navy-blue daggertail.

[kit-kat-katie]

There Are No Victors, Only Survivors

A/N: First fic ever on here... I'm a little nervous, but excited to start a new chapter in my life! Let me know what you think of this! [ I also read the books 7 years ago and I'm almost done binge-watching the movies so don't burn me alive if I get the lore wrong :) ]

Pairing: Finnick Odair x Reader (platonic or romantic)

Summary: After winning the games, you go on camera to discuss your win with Caesar. Footage of the games causes you to recall a painful memory, one you'd rather leave in that arena.

TW: Trauma from the games, large crowds, murder

The crowd screams your name as you enter the stage. Your ears still ring from the sound of canons, your mind is numb from the numerous deaths you witnessed and caused, and your lips are dry even though you had plenty to eat and drink before this.

Caesar kindly waves you over, and you stick a warm smile on your face as you head towards him.

"Our victor, everyone!"

The crowd goes wild, and you bow to absorb as much attention and positivity as you need. You're a possession of the Capital now, and any out-of-line move could end with 24 dead tributes instead of 23.

It's just an interview, just like before the games. Stay calm... you can do this.

"Now, there are many pressing questions that the people of Panam want to know... including myself," Caesar nudges your side, and you laugh as if it's the funniest joke you've ever heard, "but there is one question that is on all of our minds: who did you hear after the jabberjays were released?"

You pause, and the smile slips from your face for a moment before you notice a camera. You quickly recover with a small head shake.

"My mom and my dad, of course." You gracefully answer.

"Really? No special someone? You seemed too torn up after that bird followed you around for three whole days." He exaggerates, and the crowd has a mixed reaction to his question.

"I-" You pause as you hear footage play from the screen behind you.

The crushing of leaves and the pounding of your heart are the only rhythms that your ears hear. Your feet carry you along, but your mind is in a much different place.

The game makers, after deciding that their handmade hell wasn't enough torture, decided to send each contestant a jabberjay just to see what would happen.

The screams of your mother and father were the first, and you immediately jumped up from your hiding spot to find them. When you realized that the sound was coming from a bird, you tried to bury your head in the sand and continue along as if nothing was happening.

The cries of loved ones turned into the cries of your friends. The ones that you had trained with in District 4 before you had been reaped. Those kids, especially the younger ones, gave you the motivation to keep fighting.

You didn't sleep the first night, and the second night was interrupted by nightmares and cannons booming every other hour. You figured that the other tributes had gone mad and had taken their anger out of each other.

...Good thing you kept away from the pack and tried to survive on your own.

The third day, however, was your breaking point. The screams of your friends had died out, and you thought that damn bird had finally left you alone. You were a defenseless fool in that moment, especially when the scream perfectly matched Finnick's voice.

He was your mentor, your friend, and had been your rock when you were scared of being another victim of the games. Hearing his screams, his cries for help... it broke you behind anything that had happened to you so far.

You didn't hesitate to pick up a rock and strike the bird right between its eyes, killing it on the spot.

After that, you came crashing to the ground with tears in your eyes. You didn't eat or drink anything that day as your thoughts were consumed with worries of his safety.

When you looked up to the sky to see the tributes that were honored at night, you realized that there was only one left: a career from District 2.

You didn't have to do much, as she stumbled upon your camp later that night. You managed to gather yourself enough to grab a knife, but she didn't attack you.

The desperation, the fear, the anger inside of her eyes... but everything else about her was deflated and depressed. You were sure that you looked the same, if not worse.

She closes her eyes for a moment, and you say a small prayer before throwing the knife into her chest.

The last cannon went off, and your ears were buzzing as you were announced as the newest victor. Nothing seemed real anymore, for all you knew, everyone you had already cared about was dead and the jabberjays were just used to mock you.

After being airedlifted out of the arena, you were taken to the Capital, where Mags and Finnick were waiting for you. You nearly fell over when you took a step towards them.

"Easy there, honey. Don't want you hurting yourself before your big interview." Finnick catches your arm, and you softly thank him before taking Mags' hand.

"The jabberjays, they sounded like my parents and my friends and..." You pause as a few tears slip past your eyes, "and you two."

He pulls you into a warm hug as you bawl your eyes out, not only for the three lives you had to take inside of that arena but for the part of you that died in there as well.

"So, who is that someone that had you all choked up, huh?"

You blink for a beat as you pull yourself back into reality.

"My best friend - they're my everything, they've been my rock for so many years, and I'm so happy that I get to see them again."

The crowd eats up your answer like it's a five-course buffet as Caesar smiles at you.

"Well, I'm glad that they are part of the reason that we have such an amazing victor!" He takes your hand and raises it high, and the crowd in the Capitol grows louder.

Your body was there, and your innocence was destroyed in the arena, but your thoughts and feelings were settled on one special person.

Finnick.

[queen-rainy-love]

The Faerie Pure Wedding Part 7

Let's go!!

*The scene picks up a few days later. The big day. White Lily was getting ready in her wedding dress. Faerie Cookies was brushing her hair out while Blue Lily was helping with the dress.*

White Lily: (Today's the day. After so long...we're finally here...)

Blue Lily: Sister. *White Lily jumps a bit* Have you decided on an heir yet?

White Lily: Not yet. But I have narrowed it down to two choices.

Blue Lily: I see. Have you spoken with her today?

White Lily: *nervously messes with her gloves* I...um...well...

*Blue Lily notices this and gently ushers the faerie Cookies out of the room. As soon as she closed the door, White Lily sighed.*

White Lily: You didn't have to do that.

Blue Lily: You know how they get when Dark Enchantress is mentioned by name. So, have you spoken with her?

White Lily: I haven't spoken with Dark Enchantress since Pure Vanilla proposed. And I've tried to reach out to her. But she won't answer.

Blue Lily: Was she mad?

White Lily: I'm not sure. The last thing she said was "What great news" in a sarcastic tone.

Blue Lily: I see. Then we can talk with her after the wedding. Hopefully, this will be nothing after everything in the past three years. Now, I think we should get going. Father is waiting for us.

White Lily: Very well. (I hope everything will be fine.)

*Both Cookies left the room and quickly walked toward the hallway outside the venue. Standing right in front of the door was Elder Faerie. He turned his attention toward his daughters and smiled.*

Elder Faerie: This is truly a wonderful day for this family. To see my eldest daughter finally getting married to the Cookie who was always by her side warms this old heart.

White Lily: *smiles* Father...

Elder Faerie: *looks at Blue Lily* And I do hope my youngest daughter also finds a Cookie, friend or love, who is also loyal. Perhaps with that pepper soldier of four little ones.

Blue Lily: *blushes and clears her throat* I...um...I...We should be getting ready for the entrance signal.

Elder Faerie: *chuckles* Very well.

*It wasn't long until the music started playing. Elder Faerie and Blue Lily stood on each of White Lily's sides. The doors opened, and White Lily could see Pure Vanilla at the end. He was dressed in the best floral outfit she'd ever seen. White Lily smiles as she, Blue Lily, and Elder Faerie walk down the aisle. It wasn't long until they reached the end. White Lily's smile grew bigger as Pure Vanilla gently grabbed her hand. She stood next to him and the ceremony began.*

Faerie Priest: Cookies of all walks of life, we are gathered here today to witness the union of both Ancient Heroes, Pure Vanilla Cookie of the Vanilla Kingdom and White Lily Cookie of the Faerie Kingdom.

*As the ceremony continued, Red Velvet looked up at the Silver Tree briefly. Like something or someone would pop out of it.*

Red Velvet: (Everything's fine. He's sealed away and everything's fine. But why can't I-)

Pastry: *grips Red Velvet's hand and whispers* Velvet, is everything okay?

Red Velvet: *jumps a bit and looks over at her* (Pastry...) *whispers* I'm fine babe. Just still nervous about him.

Pastry: *whispers* Velvet. *grips his hand again* Everything will be fine. He can't be stronger than Millennial Tree and Sugar Swan combined. He was stopped. But if he ever escapes, you and I will fight him together. For now, let's just enjoy the moment.

*Red Velvet relaxed a bit and smiled at her. He thought about the little box in his pocket.*

Red Velvet: (She's right. And so is Madeleine. Everything is fine. We stopped him from escaping and our future is ours.) *whispers* You're right.

*Back to the ceremony...*

Faerie Priest: Pure Vanilla Cookie, do you take White Lily Cookie to be your wedded wife, to live together in marriage? Do you promise to love her, comfort her, honor and keep her for better or worse, in sickness and health, and be faithful only to her, for as long as you both shall live?

Pure Vanilla: I do.

Faerie Priest: White Lily Cookie, do you take Pure Vanilla Cookie to be your wedded husband, to live together in marriage? Do you promise to love him, comfort him, honor and keep him for better or worse, in sickness and health, and be faithful only to him, for as long as you both shall live?

White Lily: I do.

Faerie Priest: Then by the power invested in me by the Witches, the Great Tree, and the Great Swan, I now pronoun you as husband and wife. You may now kiss the bride.

*White Lily pulled Pure Vanilla in and kissed him. The crowd cheered as both Cookies rested their foreheads on each other.*

White Lily: After everything we've been through...

Pure Vanilla: We're finally together.

[crisiscutie]

C.C's Rebirth Check/Wishlist for Sephiroth

Given that Sephiroth's increased screen time has been confirmed for Rebirth, I'm hoping for answers/exploration on the listed subjects below: However, it would be unrealistic to expect that the majority or even half of the items on this list will be addressed. There's also Ever Crisis and 7R3, so there may be opportunities for further exploration.

Sephiroth's mindset changing from thinking himself as a Cetra to the inheritor of JENOVA's will: This is something that could be easily expanded on in Rebirth. Perhaps some cut scenes showing Sephiroth in the Lifestream with JENOVA. It'd be interesting to witness him absorb the planet's memories and watch his madness intensify. This exploration could also be a legit way to woobify Sephiroth without trivializing or undermining the gravity of his horrific actions, since it's something that we already know about, just that there is more explanation on it this time.

2. JENOVA's origins and sapience: Just what exactly is it? Can it still think with Sephiroth in control? Is it an Omega Weapon from a different planet or simply another parasitic virus within its own species? Please, I just want to know what the hell is it exactly. Also, how was it exactly defeated?

3. Confirmation that Sephiroth is in control of JENOVA at the start of FF7: It's been confirmed by AC, the FF7 Ultimania, and the writers themselves several times. Not sure why there's still debates about it in today's time. So maybe this game will be the final nail in the coffin for this debate.

4. Expansion/confirmation if JENOVA was controlling and/or influencing Sephiroth during the Nibelheim Incident: This is a legit debate. My opinion is that it was influencing Sephiroth, judging by the reactions he had the closer he got to its body, both in CC and also possibly at a time in FS. But I do think Sephiroth was acting of his own volition when he committed the horrific crimes at Nibelheim. Even if JENOVA was controlling him, he showed no remorse or acknowledgement of his atrocities once he had full control of it and even committed/planned to do more atrocities.

5. How Sephiroth plans on beating fate with his knowledge of the future? I'm certain that the game will partly address this. But I wonder why he doesn't just kill Aerith and Tifa, break Cloud, and beeline the Black Materia. My theory is that Sephiroth is in a similar predicament to Aerith, where he is limited in what he can do because of the Whispers. He must wait for the right moments to manipulate events to his liking. So he understands he needs to play the waiting game. Why not have some fun with Cloud in the meantime?

6. Sephiroth's Parentage: Does he know Hojo is his father? A certain scene from CC calls to mind. But I think even if he doesn't know, he must have had some inkling or recognized him as the closest person to a father figure in his life. It's also interesting to note that he consistently focuses on a mother figure throughout his entire life, without ever mentioning a "father". I theorized why here.

As for Lucrecia, does he know about her too? We know Sephiroth absorbed the memories of the planet during his four-year Lifestream dive with JENOVA. Will those memories include any hint of his true parentage?

7. Just how much does Sephiroth really know? Yes, he possesses future knowledge, but where does that knowledge begin and end? At one point, he's going to have to start improvising somewhere down the line. I don't expect this to be answered in Rebirth. 7R Sephiroth is trolling us almost as much as he is trolling Cloud. Man is self-aware.

8. The fates of his squad members: Matt, Glenn and Lucia. And here I thought First Soldier would update because of Rebirth, but they seem to holding back on it for now. I wonder if this is because Rebirth would spoil their fates?

9. More characterization of Sephy: We need to see that cold, professional SOLDIER mask cracking more. And it looks like this will be delivered. Such a puppy 😍

10. This is for Rebirth in general: Please don't end on a fucking cliffhanger... It'd just make the nonstop theorizing from the fanbase for the next four years even more painful to endure. I also hate cliffhangers in general.

Again, I'm not even expecting half of these to be answered, especially the point about JENOVA's origins since that'd probably be saved for the 3rd 7R game. The questions about his knowledge of his parentage probably won't be answered either. But I'm hoping for a few at least. Once I have more info on the game, I'll swing back to this list and mentally check off what's confirmed or at least mentioned/addressed.

[haru-natsuka]

Naive (Kalim Al Asim x Wife Reader)

Genre: Romance

You get married to Kalim as you fell in love with the naiveness you had witnessed since your school year. You never thought much except being very enthusiastic when he proposed to you. Despite that, you never expected the characteristic of him that you loved almost made you go insane...

'How dare he! How dare he! That cute little angel might be a demon'

The loud enjoyable laughters that echoed from the living room was a spiteful sound to your ears particularly when you heard your husband's voice. You wanted to respect your husband's time with his guests as per the tradition of Asim's family but you simply could not bear any more letting him entertain his guests, especially if one of them had to be a woman.

Everyone in Scalding Sand familiar with the head man from the Asim lineage would have a lot of wives to secure their heir so their wealth could be passed down from generation to generation. As the news of Kalim now being announced as the heir of the wealthy Asim, many women were after him more like threw themselves on him so they could get into the family and you being his first wife vigorously opposed this.

When he first proposed to you, you did lay a lot of conditions before you agreed to accept it and one of them was for him to only vow married to you in exchange, you beared his children. Not so bad right? Right now, you had more rights to be possessive over your husband, if he was only not that dense. It was very nice for you to marry such a kind man and yet you came with greater disadvantages.

A wife should respect her husband when he was having a party with his guest but let screw the rule as you had bear this for quite some time. With utmost confidence, you stepped into the living room. Your firm presence was enough to make everyone focus on you upon your entrance and yet your eyes were fixed on your husband and the unpleasant woman beside him. This guest was the same as others, all they desired was to set their daughters with Kalim.

"I, welcomed the guests to Asim's residence. Your ride must be exhausting as all of you did enjoy the night feast very much." You spoke the words as politely and welcoming as possible to hide your enmity over them.

"My dear! I'm happy that you come! Come and join us too."

"I'm more than pleased to" You joined the feast for the night by replacing the woman who was sitting beside Kalim before. What was the right she think she was doing there?! Although, within your mind, you could not wait for it to end so you could have a splendid nice talk with your husband.

"Why are you so mad? If I have done something wrong, please tell me, hmmm?.." After the meeting ended, you had not spoken a word with Kalim except for whenever he asked you a question, you would reply with just short answer. However, you need to speak because Kalim being Kalim, he would take a long time to figure it out and you had chosen to married this kind of man at your own free will.

"You treat that lady with so much care don't you"

"Of course! She is a part of our guest. I need to make her feel nice-" as he noticed the scowl on your face, his voice became more timid as he sensed he words were unpleasant to you -that's not what you wanted to hear, right wifey?"

"That wom-lady was trying to seduce you with her body. How dare she! in front of someone else husband!"

"Is that why you wear such a revealing dress too? To seduce me?" You wear cloth which shows your waist which you usually would avoid wearing. Why it sounds so sinful when your own husband said it?

"I need to seduce you with all my might after all"

"Aha ha ha ha, I love you so much, wifey. You would be the only one entitled to be my wife. I promise you that didn't I and I-"

"-you never break your promise, right hubby? I still remember how your humanity win against Jade's unique spell."

"Jade unique spell?"

"Nah. It's from the past."

"Okay, then we should continue"

"Con-continue wh-what"

"You already wear something revealing. It would be a waste if we don't take further steps, isn't it? You should not left me hanging because I'm pretty seduced by you"

"De- Ka-Kalim wait-"

"I'm jealous too as others were ogling through your body early. They should know you are mine and I'm yours too. I'll announce it to everyone so they should never disturb us"

Help! Your husband is not that naive anymore.

I'm really curious on Kalim's personality as an adult. Can't wait to see his character development.

[rayshippouuchiha]

Ray, Dearest Void, I have come to you with the most Yandere manga I have ever read: I Was Reincarnated as the Villainess in an Otome Game but the Boys Love Me Anyway! It's only got 14 chapters right now but damn are these bitches crazy.

Our Heroine, Mystia, is the typical reincarnator heroine, except that she's low energy and very clearly on the autism spectrum. Like, I thought to myself "finally, a normal, relatable female protag... like, really relatable, damn" before I remembered that I am very, very neurodivergent. But! She's just living her life, trying to avoid the bad end (like I said, relatable) and literally everyone around her is obsessed with her. I do mean everyone. Fiance? Obsessed. Servants? Her personal maid declared that she would dig up her grave and cuddle her body until she died beside her. Self-proclaimed best friend? Only calls her "My Lady" because he refuses to call her by her name until they're married. Also pretty sure that the girl who was reincarnated as the heroine is obsessed with the Mystia from the game too.

It started off slow, her parents are supremely indulgent and her servants are very devoted. But hoo boy, does it go downhill fast. Thankfully for Mystia (and me too, tbh, I'm not super fond of yanderes who go for maiming/killing the object of their affection) all of the yanderes are working against each other, so Mystia is relatively safe. (Can't say the same for the poor guys who just wanted to work as gardeners for a noble family, though. Her servants are brutal.) TBH I'm rooting for the teacher. Yes, he is five years older than her and they met when she was 10, but so far he has the least creepy mentality when it comes to her (he is delusional, but the delusion isn't interfering with him to the point that he'll do anything illegal... well, illegal to her. Honestly, he's fairly earnest and kinda cute about it.) and is the least likely of the love interest (or, any of the characters really) to have a shrine to her with a vial of her blood and covered in her hair. It's insane and messy and honestly great.

Join me in witnessing the madness.

okay yeah i'm gonna have to check that one out

[honeydbee]

🔱PERCY JACKSON BOOK QUOTES🔱

( quotes from across the percy jackson books. feel free to change names, pronouns, locations, etc. as needed ! )

“If my life is going to mean anything, I have to live it myself.”

“Where’s the glory in repeating what others have done?”

“With great power…comes great need to take a nap. Wake me up later.”

“Deadlines just aren’t real to me until I’m staring one in the face.”

“Sometimes the best we can do is to remind each other that we’re related for better or for worse… and try to keep the maiming and killing to a minimum.”

“Knowing too much of your future is never a good thing.”

“Humans see what they want to see.”

“The real world is where the monsters are.”

“Life is only precious because it ends, ___.”

“Getting something and having the wits to use it…those are two different things.

“I’m nobody’s sidekick.”

“Medusa is your mom? Dude, that sucks for you.”

“Every time I’m around you, some monsters attack us. What’s to be nervous about?”

“You weren’t able to talk sense into him?”

“Well, we kind of tried to kill each other in a duel to the death.”

“I see. You tried the diplomatic approach.”

“Excuse me, but if you’re going to kill me, could you just get on with it?”

“There is always a way out for those clever enough to find it.”

“Sugar and caffeine. My willpower crumbled.”

“Maybe it’s okay to still be a kid once in a while.”

“Behold! The god’s chosen beverage! Tremble before the horror of Diet Coke!”

"What could be worse than hummus?"

“Like the zodiac sign? I’m a leo.”

"Hercules, huh? That guy was like the Starbucks of Ancient Greece. Everywhere you turn--there he is."

"Delaying death is one of my favorite hobbies."

“I try not to think, it interferes with being nuts.”

“What if we promoted, like, Adidas shoes? Would that make Nike mad enough to show up?"

“You think it’s ok we’re eating Rudolph?”

“Dude, I’m hungry. I could eat Prancer and Blitzen too.”

"I can see the stars again, ___."

"I appreciate the offer, but my mom told me not to accept curses from strangers."

"I'd had years of practice looking dumb when people threw out names I didn't know. It's a skill of mine.”

“I didn't understand how, but the toilets had responded to me. I had become one with the plumbing.”

“Back in my day we died all the time, and we liked it.”

"Don't I get a kiss for good luck?"

“You, Me. To the Finish line.”

“You're cute but you're not my type.”

"You're death would be great for me."

“But remember, ___, that a kind act can sometimes be as powerful as a sword.”

"It's okay. We're together."

“I’m sure you both would’ve been wonderful at killing each other. But right now, you need some rest.”

“So…you knew you liked me from that moment?”

 “I hated you at first. You annoyed me. Then I tolerated you for a few years. Then—”

“Besides, ___, I just thought we could take a walk. We haven’t had any time to be together alone. I want to show you something—my favorite place."

“Save yourselves! It is too late for us!”

"Come on, let me introduce you to my other family.”

“Lots of death, huh? Personally, I'm trying to avoid lots of death, but you guys have fun!”

“Being a hero doesn’t mean you’re invincible. It just means that you’re brave enough to stand up and do what’s needed.”

“Hmm… I can call a friend for a ride.”

“Oh, yeah? Me too. Let's see whose friend gets here first.”

“Please, ___... change your clothes. You smell like you've been run over by an electric horse.”

[coffeeandbatboys]

And It All Goes Downhill. (Matt Murdock x Reader)

This one is for @omega-ish hope you get some good Matt comfort out of this one :)

After learning Matt's secret, things go wrong very quickly.

Warnings: kidnapping, lots of injuries.

You stared him down, disbelief crossing your features.

"So you're telling me that you jump around on rooftops at night punching people to death?? You're. Blind. Matthew."

"Y/N please-"

"No. Either you've been lying to me this whole time about the bruises and scars, or you're just saying this to impress me. Even then you'd still be lying."

You were seething with anger now, at the fact he didn't trust you enough to tell you.

"I can't do this right now, Matt."

"I'm sorry. I'm so, incredibly sorry."

"And I," you grabbed your coat, opening the door. "Don't want to hear another word from you."

~~~

"Alright, easy buddy. Take my money." You held it out for the thug, who was jittery and almost frightened.

"Necklace."

The one that Matt had given you. Why should you care? You were mad at him right now. But you always fixed it somehow.

"No, you asked for the money, you got-"

A gunshot rang out, and the thug sprinted away in fear. You looked around, trying to determine the source. That's when you saw two men exit a warehouse building to your right. They caught sight of you and pursued you. No doubt they just killed someone. Before you could get away, though, they overtook you and the world went black.

~~~

When you awoke, you felt the bonds around your wrists. Around you seemed to be another warehouse of sorts. It seemed empty, cold and damp, leaving you shivering against the harsh conditions. Then you realized that you were on the second floor. An industrial bridge spanned underneath you, from one end of the room to the other. You tasted the dried blood from your lips, and the first thought in your mind was "Oh my God. I'm going to die."

Before you could shut it down, a large, broad-shouldered figure entered your line of vision. It was Wilson Fisk. Oh I'm definitely going to die.

"Miss Y/L/N. I suppose you know why you're here."

"I witnessed the getaway of a murder?"

"All the same, I can't have you traipsing around after that. However, you may still be of some use."

"Oh? And how's that?"

"Tell me everything you know about Daredevil."

The air felt impossibly colder and you suddenly felt sick. Matt wasn't lying.

You decided to tell white lies, in order to make it seem as if he wasn't your boyfriend. As if that worked, though.

"I see him in the newspaper. Quite a guy huh? Doin' parkour on rooftops?"

"Don't play games with me L/N."

"Look, I've never interacted with the devil of Hell's Kitchen. Only seen him from a distance." It wasn't a complete lie. You'd never actually seen Matt as the Devil. At least, not in action.

Just then, you heard a commotion outside, and your heart skipped a beat. Could it be him?

Sure enough, he burst into the second floor of the warehouse with Fisk's men hot on his tail.

Fisk made his own getaway and the Devil of Hell's Kitchen was left to fight his men. One by one they were struck down. He could hear your stifled cries to him, pleading for safety.

Then the last of the goons who was closest to you, fell off the bridge. His Neck twisted as he landed, making an awful cracking sound.

All of the sudden Matt stopped, horrified. You tried to call out for him, but he stood completely still in shock. It was like his senses were muddled, and he couldn't find you. Even this close he couldn't lock onto your heartbeat. He feared that the crack was of your neck, and not the goon's.

"Matt!!" You screamed. That brought him back to reality. Nearly breaking down, he rushed over to you, cradling your face in his hands.

"Oh my-I thought you died...are you hurt?" He asked as he undid the ropes on your wrists.

"Matt I'm fine. I just want to go home."

"Are you sure? Aren't you still mad at me?"

Your heart broke. "No, no, honey. You just saved me. And I believe you now."

"I'm sorry for not telling you..."

"Matt. Its OK. I just want to go home with you and clean up. I'm not angry with you anymore. I love you." Reaching up, you caressed his chin, before placing a soft kiss on his lips. He whispered a soft "I love you, I'm sorry" against them.

"Now let's go home."

[thosepeakyboysimagines]

*not my gif*

Arranged (Part 4)

Pairing: Finn Shelby x Y/N

Warning:

Summary: You were the youngest child of you fathers, being part of a mob family in the heart of New York, your family had many enemies in the city, and even further away, and your life was about to change after a Peaky Boy barged into your life.

REQUESTS ARE OPEN! MAJOR WRITERS BLOCK!

"Fuuuuuckkkkk." You groaned out as you opened your eyes the next morning with your head still on Finn's chest. You rolled over and held you head in your hands.

"You okay love?" You heard a deep groggy voice say.

"My head." You said sighing out.

"Look in your bed side." He said as he flipped onto his side to look at you. You looked over and there was some tablets and water.

"Your the best." You said to him and grabbed them off the table and took them quickly. You laid back on your back and closed your eyes.

"So what are the plans today?" You asked.

"Well, I was thinking I'd show you around the city a bit. Go to the Garrison, which Tommy owns. Meet some new people. Then we can go back to my house and get your all set up." He said placing his hand softly on your forehead.

"Sounds good to me. I'd just like to get the alcohol out of my system first and not feel like shit. How bad was I?" You asked not ready to hear how big of an ass you made yourself look like.

"Not too bad. You were pretty mad at me because I wasn't around you. You caused some good laughs but nothing near the shit that normally goes on here." He said rubbing your head softly now.

"Here. I'll run you a bath and you can get ready for our day, then come downstairs and have breakfast wit everyone." He said getting up from the bed only in his boxers. He pulled his pants on and walked to the bathroom. You stood wrapping the sheet around your body to keep somewhat warm and went to the bathroom.

"Come on. It nice and warm." He said motioning you over. You dropped the sheet, exposing your completely naked body now to him. Trying to cover up slightly, feeling somewhat uncomfortable.

"I'll let you know right now, your body is beautiful, I saw you naked last night, and you never have to hide from me." He said standing and looking over at you. You smiled and walked over to the bath he stood in front and got in. The bubbles he put in covering you completely. The water was so warm on your skin, and relaxed all the muscles in your body.

"Are you excited to see England today?" Finn asked kneeling beside the bath tub and putting his arms on the edge of it.

"I am never left New York. So, I'm excited to see new things." You said looking at him. He smiled at you and put hand arm over and out his finger tips into the warm water you laid in. He looked down at the water as he caught bubbles in his hands and just kind of looked like he was thinking hard.

"Hey." You said putting your finger up to his chin to lift it up to look at you.

"Everything okay?" You asked looking into his eyes.

"Oh yeah. Just thinking." He said with a small grin.

"About?" You asked trying to understand him.

"Just thinking about my future. What will become of you and I. What you want from me. If you really want to be in this marriage. I've seen how arranged marriages go and most of the time, the couple ends top hating each other." He spoke up explaining his thoughts to you.

"Well, it is only day 4 of being married, so I can only tell you what I think at this moment. Right now, I think I would very much like a future with you. Do I think we will get along all the time? No, of course not. You have Shelby blood flooding your veins, I know there is anger in there somewhere. I have Italian blood, Gotti blood to be exact, running though my blood. But, I could see us having a beautiful family, kicking ass, and growing old together." You said explaining what you thought. He smiled and kissed your forehead softly.

"Well, I'm happy you feel that way. Now go ahead clean ups and I'll see you downstairs." He said standing and walking out. You smiled at yourself. He was a good man, he may not do some not so good things, but the people he loves, they know he loves them. That's ask you needed. To know you were loved, and safe. You finished up your bath and gout, wrapped your self in the robe that hung on the back of the door. You walked out drying your hair with a small towel. You opened your suit case that laid on the ground on your side of the bed. you grabbed out the pinstripe blazer, with a black button up shirt, and leather pants. Also, grabbing your fedora, and black heeled boots. You slipped into all your clothes and looking at yourself in the mirror before stepping out of the room. You made your way down the stairs and heard the talking coming from a few rooms over. You made your way to that room and entered it.

"There she is!!" Arthur yelled. You smiled at everyone, scanning the room to find Finn, and finally your eyes landed on him on the other side of the table with an open seat next to him. You began to round the table.

"You need to give me the name of whoever makes that suit. I need it." Polly said as you passed her.

"I'll have one specially tailored for you from New York." You told her with a smile and made it to Finn. You sat next to him and pushed your chair in.

"You look amazing." He whispered to you. You smiled at him giving him a thankful look.

"Alright, so Item one Welcome to the family officially Y/N. Hope you wont get to annoyed with all of us." Tommy said standing from his seat and clanking a knife on his glass. Everyone cheered and hooted.

"Item two, not with Y/N in the family, we have made amends with the Gotti family, which means we've made amends with pretty much all of New York. So we can began our move into America. We may have some trouble with Jack Nelson again, but with the Gotti family, and our men there now. We shouldn't have too much trouble." Tommy went on to the next topic. Thinking to yourself that you married Finn, for the business, but looking over at Finn and thinking even if it was just a business transaction you might actually have feelings for this man. Everyone ate and talked over their breakfast for about an hour longer.

"alright well I'm sure everyone has their own things going on today, so everyone have a nice day. Finn & Y/N have fun around the cities, but Finn remember to be careful." Tommy said before everyone broke away from the table. You stood along with everyone else.

"Alright you ready?" Finn asked as you both stood.

"Yes." You said with a smile and followed him out of the house and to the Bentley that sat out front for the two of you. You got in and Finn rounded the car to get in and drive off.

It as an amazing day with your husband. You drove around London met some Peaky boys that you'd be seeing around a lot. You danced, ate, sat and watched people walking around town, learned more and more about each other. You two were back in the car and on your way to Small Heath for the last stop of the night. You pulled up to the Garrison where it seemed like the place was packed.

"Here we are where everything started." Finn said before getting out of the car and coming to open your door. You took his hand and stepped out lightly.

"Wow. This place seems popular." You said with a smile.

"Well it is run and owned by the men who own and run this city, so they know where the best stuff is. Come on in, have a few more people for you to meet." He said leading you into the Garrison. It was covered in gold and beautiful lights hang from ceiling.

"Wow, thus place is beautiful." You said looking around.

"Yeah, had somewhat of an upgrade after it got blown up." Finn said. You looked at him with wide eyes.

"Business." Was all he said and you understood.

"Finn!!!" You heard a tall, blue eyed, black man say from a booth on the other side of the pub.

"Y/n, I'd like you to meet Isaiah. One of my best mates, and one of the Peaky Blinders." Finn said as you met with Isaiah.

"Well fuck Finn, look at you, finally got yourself a pretty one. No more slags for this guy, ey?" Isaiah said laughing and putting Finn in a headlock.

"Very nice to meet you Y/N." He said holding his hand out for you to place it in his and he kissed the top of it.

"Nice to meet you to Isaiah." You said with a smile.

"Y/N!" You heard your name called from behind you. You turned to see Polly stood at the bar waving you over.

"I'm going to go et a drink." You said before walking away from the two men.

"Hey Pol." You said meeting her and sitting st one of the hightop seats at the bar next to her.

"So, how was your time being introduced to the city?" She asked lighting s cigarette and motioning it to you. You took it and took a drag off of it.

"It was very nice. I think I'll like it here." You said with a smile.

"Hey! can we get a whiskey over here for the women?" Polly yelled at the bartender. The bartender hurrying to get that whiskey of you. You took a sip and relaxed a bit more.

You and Polly sat and talked for what felt like hours. Getting to know more and more about the family.

"Scuse. miss." You heard a man say from behind you and brush your hip with his hand.

"Mrs. and you can back up." You said turning to the man who wanted to get severely close to you.

"Sorry. Mrs. But you are beautiful, and I don't see your Mr. next to you. So I'm sure it'll be okay if I just." He said as he began to move his hand towards you waist again. Pulling out the knife from your boot, standing up, flicking it open and pushing it to his throat causing him to push back up against the bar.

"You didn't let me finish. Mrs. Shelby it is." You said and his eyes widened as you felt a presence behind you knowing it was Finn and Isaiah. Polly just sat and watched you, studied your movements.

"I suggest you don't come back here." You said backing up and he stood straight up.

"Fucking, Peaky Blinders." He said as he ran out of the building. You turned to look at Finn.

"Well. Didn't think you had that in ya." Finn said grabbing ahold of your hips and pulling you into him.

"I think there's a lot you may not know about me Finn. But you will learn as time goes on. But for now, let's dance!" You said pushing him to the middle of the room where everyone danced and joining in.

You and Finn danced through the night, drinking, laughing, even kissing every once in awhile. It rounded just about morning time when you and Finn sat in a booth just talking and realized there were people passed out in other booths and even on the floor.

"Well shit, we should probably get home. Get you acquainted with the house, and get some sleep." He said standing up sliding out of the booth. You followed behind him, and to the front door. You walked out, it wasn't sunrise yet, just before the sunrise where it was light out, but no sun appeared. You got into the car and Finn drove about 20 minutes away from the Garrison. Pulling up to a house secluded with trees around it, and a big farm. The house wasn't as big as Tommy's, but still big and just enough room.

"This is beautiful Finn." You said looking around the property.

"Yeah. It not huge, but I don't need huge. Just need enough room for the horses, and somewhere I'm able to get away from all the craziness." He said as pulled into the driveway.

"Its perfect." You said smiling and becoming more happy to be here by just seeing where you'd live. You got out of the car and met around it to Finn who wrapped his arm round your shoulder and walked with you into the home.

"Welcome home, Love."