#s: destiny awaits

[cepheustarot]

What do you need to hear right now?

Attention! This reading is for entertainment purposes only. This tarot reading does not give a 100% guarantee that all the described situations will occur or being ultimate truth. You build your own life and destiny and only you know yourself best.

✧ Masterlist ✧ Paid readings

Pick a pile. Choose one or more pictures. Trust your intuition.

Pile 1: At this stage of your life, you may feel tired of the routine, you feel that every day is similar to the previous one and you seem to be living a "Groundhog Day", little changes and everything seems boring and monotonous.  You want to break this endless cycle, break out of a vicious circle. Someone or something can also limit you and your abilities, because of this you may feel trapped in a cage. From this situation, you have an impulse to change something in your life, to bring new changes to your daily routine. This is certainly a reasonable decision, but the cards advise you not to act impulsively and spontaneously, cards recommend that you think for a while about the ideas that came to your mind. You should not only live for one day, but also think about the future, about the consequences that can await you. You do not need to listen to other people, give in to their words, because there is a risk to listen to them and do as society or your loved ones want. You may also have a desire to be the same as the people who inspire you, set the same goals, and lead such a lifestyle. It's worth thinking about, do you really want the same life or is this desire imposed? The best thing in such situations is to listen to yourself and your voice. Remember that only you know what is best for you, there is no need to rush, live and act at a pace that suits only you.

Pile 2: Most likely, you are now at a fork in the road, there are several paths and several variants in front of you. Everyone seems to be waiting for your answer and what choice you will make. The expectations of other people can put a lot of moral pressure on you, because of this you carefully weigh this or that choice, but do not come to a single answer. You may feel very sad, you may feel afraid of not meeting someone else's or your own expectations. You may also be afraid to waste time and effort without achieving the result you would like. Because of this, you feel very insecure, you may have severe anxiety and obsessive thoughts about the future, and a lot of self-doubt. Here the cards remind you that all your doubts are in vain, because you are a very strong and brave person who can move mountains. You are one of those who thinks through every step, you have a very developed intellect, you can be called a strategist to some extent, since you think through several plans at once in order to achieve what you would like one way or another. Remember what you have already achieved, what trials you have gone through and what results you have come to. You can also analyze your failures and highlight the reasons why something didn't work out (in this regard, you may feel guilty that you didn't try hard enough and could have achieved more. In fact, not everything depends on you, external factors also have a strong influence, so just remind yourself that you really gave your best, you did a good job and you can be proud of yourself).

Pile 3: Most likely, you had an unpleasant story with one person relatively recently. This situation has traumatized you or at least left a noticeable residue in your heart. You are very upset by this act, you may feel resentment or anger at this person, you may have a lot of thoughts like: "why did s/he do this to me?". After this incident, you now do not immediately open up to people, you may be too careful about new faces in your life, you may even become suspicious of a new acquaintance. Here the cards advise you to give yourself time to live through all the emotions after what happened. Sooner or later you will let go of this situation and the pain will gradually fade away, it will become easier for you to breathe and all these thoughts will no longer be there. Now the best thing you can do is to give love to yourself, and also accept it from those who want to give you their love and care. You should not be so skeptical of everyone, you need to try to understand the person and try to find something good in him, which at first glance may seem negative or suspicious. Don't cling to resentments and pain, just let them go.

Thank you for reading! I will be glad of any feedback 💕

[astrologylunadream]

Who am I destined to love?💌☁️🔗 [Soulmate reading] (Pick a card/Tarot love reading)

Hey it's Lunadream🤗 We will be doing a reading on your destined lover!💗 hope you find your message🌸💫

Notice: Only take what resonates because the most important thing is your own judgement!♡ If anything doesn't resonate, don't worry! It's not your message right now <3 (Entertainment purpose only. All rights reserved)

Now, shall we begin~? ^w^ Think of the love you long for, and pick whichever pile that fits the energy you're feeling~🌸🌟

Pile 1🦊

Pile 2🦢

Pile 3🛋

Pile 4🎹

Take your time and choose carefully with the heart~♡

On to the readings —> 💌

Pile 1🦊

Sign energy: Forgiveness, Anger, True feelings, Fame, Singer, 3rd house, Cancer, Moon, North node, Gemini, 🪐🧩🌃🛎

☁️Your energy: You guys have a fiery energy about you, very kind and fun loving. You are very emotional and tend to have outbursts if your emotional state is not safe or well taken care of. You could love singing and I'm getting a more specific message that someone in this pile has a famous parent/mom, a singer mom if there are any of you in my pile 1😆 You get frustrated easily but those feelings come from your true heart, and you express yourself openly and genuinely. I feel like this pile doesn't back down when angry💢 You could be a night owl, prefer the night time. I feel like you're more in touch with your emotions at night, like cinderella I'm hearing "when the clock strikes twelve" and suddenly you are your true self at night, your openly emotional real self.♡ You may feel inclined to become famous or a public speaker, sharing your thoughts and ideas with those who need it the most.

💘Who you're destined to love: Fox, Neck, Taurus, Gemini, Fix, Leo, South node, Air, Aries, Water, 🎡🦀🍭🚀 A very fun and gorgeous person awaits my pile 1, if you were drawn to the fox here it came out again so this is your confirmation this is definitely the pile!! This could be someone from your past, you will feel a sense of familiarity with this person. They have a more so direct approach to communication and think fast. Very witty, intelligent and a natural problem solver. Taurus, Gemini, Leo, or Aries placements, they may have Sun conjunct Venus or Mercury I feel. They have a very attractive neck, especially with the Taurus energy. As for the purpose of this destiny, I'm seeing as someone you are destined to fix, almost help in a way, your love is meant to heal this person on an emotional level. They will be so glad they met you, like you were fated to help them. It's giving heaven sent angel vibes <3 They will see you as an answer to their prayers, and things will only look up from there.😊 This destiny is an emotional journey for you both, connecting through mutual understanding and comforting one another is the true reason for this connection. It will heal and nurture your hearts greatly.♡ It will be a fun, pleasant and in some ways childlike relationship made of pure love and trust.

💌Messages from them: I'll never forget you, I finally get it, Our love is a game, I know exactly how you like it, I see you, Extra cards: Daily, Follower, Angel, Green, Crazy, 8th house, Earth, Chiron, Water, Sun, (Guardian angel vibes🥺💫)

Thank you my pile 1's! If you feel this resonated, you may tap the heart to claim this message!💌

I hope you enjoyed your reading! ʚ(｡˃ ᵕ ˂ )ɞ If you did be sure to let me know pile 1 with the fox emoji~🦊 Thanks for scrolling through, Hugs hugs hugs!! See you in the next reading💞

Pile 2🦢

Sign energy: Cafe, Long term, Endurance, Stomach, Hair, North node, Aquarius, Gemini, ⛵😂🌉🤍

☁️Your energy: You guys have such a graceful vibe, I see so much pure cleansed energy with this pile. Elegant swan energy for you guys <3 Most of you in this pile are looking for long term commitment, so you may be hoping that the one you are destined to love is someone you will be with for a long time. Some of you work as a barista/job at a cafe☕💕 Your hair is gorgeous and people talk about it a lot.💇‍♀️ Aquarius and Gemini placements overall air signs but I'm getting such indirect Virgo energy from this pile omgggg any Virgo's in my lovely pile 2??😂 Btw this emoji!!😂😂😂 Do you use it alot?? Could be significant for any of this pile, you may laugh a lot and your laugh is very light and beautiful. I'm seeing a future of laughing and happiness with this pile I feel like that is also your destiny to just, laugh and have fun. Just loosen up a bit and enjoy the little things that make you happy, being grateful is meant for you my pile 2's <3 You have such an angelic presence about you, so admirable and full of kindness and beauty. You may want to meet your future but don't like the steps to get there, but I'm hearing only of you endure the journey of your hopes can you arrive at the destination of fulfilling them. Haha maybe that resonates with some of you, I feel like you may drink coffee or tea often. Cafes are your jam!

💘Who you're destined to love: Comfort, Love, Shame, Present, Blind, 12th house, Lilith, Eros, Neptune, Air, 🤣🤒😤🧲 Okaaay my pile 2's we have some interesting energy going on with this 👏person👏 You are definitely destined with this person romantically, I'm hearing fated connection. This is someone who is seemingly new or not experienced with love, they make mistakes and don't know what they're doing most of the time.🥺 They also have so many fantasies about it some that they are shameful of or embarrassed to meet, they have a some darker needs too in a romantic connection. Many of their turn on's in a partner are subconscious fears aswell. I get the vibe this person isn't the best at communiting their desires, it makes them feel vulnerable and out of place like a fish out of water. Pisces/12th house and air placements are possible. They are a dreamer, they have this "where am I? Who am I?" type of vibe😂😂 like they are just one with the energies, I feel like this person is very in tune with the spiritual side of life themselves. Your person is very attractive in a soft aesthetic way, ethereal and beyond physical charms that rope you in like a buoy in the crashing waves of the sea🌊 You are destined to love this person with all your heart, to cherish eachother on levels deeper many can experience. A soulmate connection is likely, and this is such a deep and contemporary romance as well as passionate. You will fulfill many desires with this person, because they take you to higher places you can't explain. I was also getting some "spicy"👀 messages coming out in this pile but since this is not an 🔞 reading I was like 👁👄👁 "not today-" LOL it will not complement the soft/dreamy vibe of this reading lol😂👌 So for my pile 2's that are interested, your person has some intense desire for you for sure maybe check out my dark pac readings for some messages in that😅😳 :'> Overall this is a very intuitive and romantic person, they are all giving and all consuming in this destined love with you.💗

💌Messages from them: I don't look at other people, I'm addicted to your love, You might get hurt, I have nothing to give, I'm not okay (🥺🥺💔) Extra cards: Alien, In, Fantasy, Shopping, Age, 12th house, 9th house, Sagittarius, Jupiter, 6th house (Destiny calls to heal this person and their fantasies, to either restrict or enhance their deepest desires.)

Thank you my pile 2's! If you feel this resonated, you may tap the heart to claim this message!💌

I hope you enjoyed your reading! ʚ(｡˃ ᵕ ˂ )ɞ If you did be sure to let me know pile 2 with the swan emoji~🦢 Thanks for scrolling through, Hugs hugs hugs!! See you in the next reading💞

Pile 3🛋

Sign energy: Try, Activity, Library, Unicorn, Keep a secret, Chiron, Gemini, Vertex, Sun, 3rd house, 😫👿🕯⛓

☁️Your energy: Alright my pile 3's could be Gemini, Leo, Virgo or prominent 3rd house energy. I'm getting some heavy vibes with this some, something is telling me that many in this pile are new to tarot or giving it a try for the first time or for some could have quit for a while and come back for some answers. If you felt this way this definitely could be your pile. I am sensing some worried energy, my pile 3's are not telling anyone what they have been up to recently🤫🙊 You have been keeping this to yourself, and maybe even the idea of loving someone is something you are not ready to share just yet. You guys are very unique and smart, you have a talent for knowing things and speaking well. Sometimes you have a dark side that you don't want to show, and it is your deepest worries and thoughts that hold you down. You may read a lot, there could be many book lovers in this pile. I feel as if you are afraid of fate hence why you are trying to see the future you are uncertain of.😟 My pile 3's are very cautious people especially when it comes to life and fate. You are heavily drawn to the occult, but also fear those practices. You see fate and destiny as chains that weigh you down, and you wish to break free to finally reach the clouds above. You are an independent and spiritually wise thinker.

💘Who you're destined to love: Fight, First, Honey, Spring, Skin, 4th house, Cancer, Water, Moon, Capricorn, 🛎🤞☔🍑 Okay my lovely pile 3's I keep getting an anxious energy, this could be about love itself. I hope this may ease my pile 3's uncertainties of the future.😞💖 This person you are destined to love has a strong personality, one that somehow compliments yours. Okay but like when you guys first meet??😍 I'm getting some passionate and bold conflict turned into something really sweet💞 I feel like you argued with this person a lot when you first met, but then after you set aside your disagreements you realized how caring and loving they can be.😢 You may have gotten very defensive about yourself or things they told you, but you soon learned to listen to their words as they hold truth and only wish to help you. They may be born in spring. Cancer and Capricorn energy is strong for this pile's person, you are destined to meet them. This connection will show you to be less skeptical and afraid of conflict and disagreement, and to learn how to understand those who seem cold or not "good" on the surface. I'm feeling this person wasn't nice to you at first, only after you loosened up from the emotional shell you tried to protect yourself with. They finally started being nice to you without reason, or perhaps you didn't realize their kindness until then. This connection is meant to shift perspectives, and hold security in trusting others. This is such a powerful lesson within this fated love omggg😭💗 Some of you might marry this person!!💍

💌Messages from them: Are you attracted to me? Don't talk to me, You can't control me, I'll only distract you, I'll never forgive you (My pile 3 your person really cares about you and they tend to push you away and it seems like they're brushing you off but that's how they show their love for you by removing themselves from the situation to let you heal and take your time😭🤍) Extra cards: One of a kind, Feminine, Hold on, Style, Juno, Moon, Eros, 9th house, Scorpio, Taurus (Omgg they see you as a devine feminine to them, their other half. They want to marry you for real!!🥺)

Thank you my pile 3's! If you feel this resonated, you may tap the heart to claim this message!💌

I hope you enjoyed your reading! ʚ(｡˃ ᵕ ˂ )ɞ If you did be sure to let me know pile 3 with the sofa emoji~🛋 Thanks for scrolling through, Hugs hugs hugs!! See you in the next reading💞

Pile 4🎹

Sign energy: Find, Desert, Quiet, Winter, Hands are tied, Eros, 7th house, Sagittarius, Pisces, Earth, 🖌🕯💘🥊

☁️Your energy: Ohh I'm loving the energy of pile 4 we have some prominent Jupiter placements here!! Could be a Libra, Sagittarius or Pisces somewhere in your charts <3 earth signs are possible. I'm definitely getting Sag/Pisces vibes from you guys😇 Creative dreamers searching for self expression and love~ some of you may be more on the quiet/shy side or more submissive in relationships. But outside of them you are a free spirit with a wild heart, you just love having fun and doing the things that make you happy. You want to find a soulmate, someone who is spiritually tied to you... who's heart is locked to yours eternally. You are looking for a person who will appreciate your creativity and spirituality, your soft and illusive dreamy self with a passion to explore life and everything you love. You may be an artist/painter or enjoy those activities, or physical sports like weight lifting or going to the gym. Could be interested in boxing. You are a fighter and a lover because you fight for love. May be born in winter, also I'm getting specific middle east vibes so some of you could be from there.💫💕

💘Who you're destined to love: Soulmates, Forgiveness, Backwards, 11th house, Date, Mars, Cancer, Venus, 1st house, Lilith, 🤕🍳🍂🏷 This is someone from your past, now I'm getting some past lover vibes. For some of you this is an ex, or someone you had an argument with. I'm sensing someone you will meet online, or have possibly already met before. I am seeing that in the beginning of this connection, you or them were too impulsive or quick to complain about the way things started off between you two. After some time I'm seeing the work of fate brings you back to this person, and you will be surprised how much they held on to this connection.😦 Like you will be shocked how much this person really cared (maybe you thought they would be angry/distant with you) but like this person will be on their knees for you omg.😖😳 This person is very emotional and honestly so deeply in love with this pile and they just want a second chance😞💕 They regret their past decisions and the way they treated you, and fate is calling you to accept and love them, this is after all who you are destined to love. There may have been a misunderstanding in the beginning or a first impression that affected your judgement of them, but there will be clarity with this person finally and my pile 4 you will see the truth about them. They are genuinely attached to my pile 4's and have just so much love and respect for you.🥺 You are destined to love and cherish them aswell, as it is very likely you will find this to be your soulmate.💗

💌Messages from them: To me, I feel so confused, It's all fake, Why would you want me? Our eyes have met (They are so scared of loosing you because they feel in their heart you guys are meant to be soulmates😫💞) Extra cards: Despair, Cuddle, Backwards, Previous, Love at first sight, 9th house, Libra, Water, 6th house, Neptune (They would be sad without you pile 4 they feel as if the work of fate brought you together😭���💖)

Thank you my pile 4's! If you feel this resonated, you may tap the heart to claim this message!💌

I hope you enjoyed your reading! ʚ(｡˃ ᵕ ˂ )ɞ If you did be sure to let me know pile 4 with the piano emoji~🎹 Thanks for scrolling through, Hugs hugs hugs!! See you in the next reading💞

Wanna see more readings like this? Check out my tumblr for accurate readings for you!💗🌊🌸

Thanks for reading! \(*^w^)/💌 -Lunadream <3

[elkkiel]

Okay! Here's a transcription of the tier 4 bundle page from Sumerian's twitter. Please let me know if I screwed anything up or if it's tough to read at all; I tried to work around the obscured parts as best I could, but all the notes might have made it cluttered. There's also several words I couldn't read, as well as some partially-visible words I couldn't figure out lol

15 days since convergence of the Lunar Anomaly

When I was a child, I was frequently beset by certain recurring dreams. There is one such dream that I remember more than most—one in which I found myself standing on a vast shoreline gazing out at a flat, wide sea. Slowly as I watched, the horizon gradually began to lift. Before long I was able to observe that this lifting expanse was approaching me— a wall of smooth, black water that curled into an impossible lip at its peak. Rather surprisingly, I do not recall being afraid at such an ominous sight. well, to be more precise, I was afraid— I was terrified, but on of the wave itself. Instead, it was the thought of what was beyond it. This vast, unstoppable force sweeping forth to herald the end of everything, to drown the world and then eventually sink back into itself. A careless shrug of entropy enough to sever the thread of all fates. I felt that were I to somehow survive this limitless tide, then I would be left in a world that would not recognize me. I would become an element unto myself and myself alone.

An echo stuck in the throat of a dead god.

Yet here I am. it has been over two weeks since the emergence of the lunar anomaly. Our teams spent nearly two years attempting to anticipate what this event would mean for humanity— analyzing endless [UNCLEAR] of lunar topography along with every known form of spectroscopy, all amounting in one hopeless conclusion: to burrow inside the bowels of the earth and simply [wish?] that whatever emerged from within would reach us there last.

As it would turn out, this one final act of humble surrender is what won the last of the right to our own lives in these final days. Those of us alive now are not those who sought to barter with [destiny?] and defiantly cling to a civilised existence at the... [OBSCURED; line break] ...–esce at all.

[OBSCURED] –of this phenomenon, we were best served by our most base instincts, where shame found no place to... [OBSCURED; line break]

[OBSCURED] –who [sp_ _ ;UNCLEAR] their [hubris?] and hid desperately down in the mud like rats.

[OBSCURED] –made every effort to warn the others, though naturally we could not [provide?] much of a [ha _ _ s ;UNCLEAR] upon... [OBSCURED; line break] ...species was facing imminent and utter demise besides a few fissures at the southern lunar pole. With... [OBSCURED; line break] ...underground facility once we realized that the moon's orbit was rapidly decaying in a way that was... [OBSCURED; line break] ... [–sical; UNCLEAR] model – I find it hard to believe that none of them followed our lead – Perhaps some of them... [OBSCURED; line break] ...of knowing now.

[OBSCURED] [s]urface expedition was [bleak?] at best. In all honesty, I was shocked to discover that our intial... [OBSCURED; line break] [UNCLEAR] ...a breathable atmosphere. Perhaps in all this turmoil, I found it easier to commit my mind to the... [OBSCURED; line break] ...turn.

[OBSCURED] [–dare; UNCLEAR] the event—despite two years of efforts—didn't prepare us for the havoc we now face. To say that... [OBSCURED; line break] ...explain the phenomena would be a gratuitious understatement. The cataclysm that occurred two weeks... [OBSCURED; line break] ... [UNCLEAR] rule about this new world we now hid beneath – to gaze upon the moon is to die.

[OBSCURED] [deve]loped wearable countermeasures for the surface teams that would prove vital in allowing them to... [OBSCURED; line break] ...could have known that this was far from the only threat that awaited them. To say that we find... [OBSCURED; line break] ...the phenomena would be a gratuitious understatement.

[OBSCURED] is affected by the lunar anomaly, but that of all life, albeit in vastly different ways.

[OBSCURED] of emergent biology is beyond the boundaries of what we would be able to study and understand.

[OBSCURED] guilt over those we lost. More than that however, I feel more guilty about the way I reacted to... [OBSCURED; line break] ...elements that attacked our team. I felt strangely comforted, despite the deeply disturbing nature of... [OBSCURED; line break]

[OBSCURED] [UNCLEAR] at the conclusion that this feeling came from a sense of familiarity, human beings fighting... [OBSCURED; line break] ...that has plagued us all since time immemorable, but here in the wake of such deeply unfamiliar and... [OBSCURED; line break] ...hard not to feel almost comforted by such an immediately recognisable problem.

[OBSCURED] [you]rself deeply troubled by the prospect of humans remaining on the surface in that state. The... [OBSCURED; line break] ...is that their actions were not [UNCLEAR] of their own will, though there is every chance [that] this is [a]... [OBSCURED; line break] ...a preference over the [UNCLEAR] alternative.

[OBSCURED] [-ing; UNCLEAR] the precious remnants of human life is the desire to understand what has happened, though in... [OBSCURED; line break] ...do. Perhaps this is the only way we can cling to our humanity– by continuing our constant battle... [OBSCURED; line break] ...the very end.

[destiny-aesthetics]

^ Postcard from Europa

-----------------------------------------------------

Destiny 2 [Bungie] | Beyond Light [Collector's Edition]

EUROPA ARCTIC ADVENTURE AWAITS! Only the bold can bear witness to this moon of mythic beauty, And behold the slendors of a natural world thriving under an infinite sky. ca 0 1 9 9 1 0707 B ID 73N - DD6 - HFG [ psst code to redeem ] S T R D S T

[nodusomnis]

title: ending scene pairing(s): aventurine x gn!reader word count: 8.6k+ synopsis: a perfect ending, a moment divine. two souls entwined, their destinies aligned.

In the wake of the debacle that unfolded within the confines of Clock Studios Theme Park, Aventurine found himself clashing with a torrent of memories, cascading upon him amidst the tumultuous clash with The Nameless. The encounter with the Emanator of Nihility, Acheron, added another layer to his introspection. He had not anticipated a meaningful exchange with her, let alone receiving the answers to the questions that had long haunted his thoughts, yet remained unspoken. 

His mind had been consumed by his mission, driven by a desire to unearth the truths obscured by The Family's clandestine ploys. Yet, beneath it all, lay a vulnerability he had concealed, encased within layers of self-preservation.

Aventurine was a fragile soul, shielded by layers of barriers against the insecurities coursing through his veins. Each layer seemed meticulously etched into his being, a defense mechanism designed to protect his fractured self from further harm. It was as though he had been molded by circumstance, destined to endure until the end.

The specter of Death had loomed large, a tantalizing prospect of liberation from the shackles binding him in place. However, it appeared that fate had other designs, offering him a reprieve, albeit bittersweet. Aventurine had exhausted every resource, staked his final chip and his very essence, to grasp the one elusive prize he coveted above all else—freedom.

The sensation was intoxicating, a long-denied elation flooding his senses as he bid farewell to his former self, Kakavasha. With measured steps, he approached the yawning abyss, a void of darkness and uncertainty where his final gambit awaited. Here, amidst the unknown, his destiny beckoned, and it was within his power to seize it, to forge a new path toward the life he yearned for.

True death, once a tempting prospect, now held no sway over him. He had relinquished its grip on his destiny, opting instead to embrace the unknown with resolve, prepared to confront whatever trials lay ahead on his journey to redemption.

As Aventurine's resounding footsteps echoed through the cavernous space, punctuated by the gentle splashes of water with each step, a voice resonated within his mind, disrupting his thoughts like a sudden thunderclap in the silence.

"Do you believe your luck will never wane?" 

Aventurine froze in his tracks. The voice, hauntingly familiar, sliced through the stillness, dredging up memories of chance encounters and shared moments in the Land of Festivities.

It was you, the enigmatic figure he had crossed paths with amidst the opulent walls of a Penacony casino, where the allure of chance beckoned like a siren's call.

In a rare departure from his relentless pursuit of his mission, Aventurine had allowed himself a fleeting indulgence—a dalliance with Lady Luck amidst the glittering lights and frenetic energy of the gambling den. The thrill of the game, the towering stacks of chips exchanged like currency in a high-stakes dance, held him in thrall. 

Seated at the poker table, surrounded by fellow players, each with their own tales of triumph and despair, Aventurine reveled in the stimulating blend of risk and reward. The round table, a silent witness to the ebb and flow of fortunes, bore witness to his calculated gambit, his skillful manipulation of the odds. 

For Aventurine, winning was not merely a possibility—it was a certainty, as innate to his being as the very act of breathing.

As Aventurine boldly wagered half of his towering stack of chips, each worth a staggering million, the atmosphere around the table crackled with disbelief, leaving his fellow players astounded and speechless. Unconcerned with the monetary value or potential rewards, he sought only the thrill of risk, a sensation that coursed through him like a tempestuous tide, simultaneously exhilarating and unnerving.

Confident in his own luck, he staked his fortune on the game, even with a modest hand of two pairs. Trusting in the whims of fate and the calculated odds, he remained poised, concealing the tumult of anxiety that churned within him beneath a mask of stoic composure.

Yet, beneath the veneer of confidence, Aventurine grappled with the relentless pounding of his heart, the palpitations echoing the intensity of his emotions. Clutching a single chip beneath the table, he clung to it as if it were a lifeline, a tangible anchor amidst the rumpus of uncertainty that threatened to overwhelm him.

"That is an audacious wager, Mr. Aventurine. Are you unequivocally committed to this course of action?" inquired the individual seated across from him, their voice tinged with apprehension.

In response to the incredulous query from his fellow player, Aventurine offered only a sardonic smirk, a silent affirmation of his resolve. "I am certain," he replied, his voice laced with a quiet confidence. "This is but the grand finale of our game—a conclusion befitting of our stakes."

"Is he not one of the Ten Stonehearts of the IPC? The individual notorious for his gambling addiction?"

"Yes, indeed. His name is rumored to be Aventurine."

As murmurs rippled through the crowd, whispers of his identity as one of the Ten Stonehearts of the IPC—a figure rumored to be consumed by the allure of gambling—reached his ears. He’s not surprised if they know him. After all, the influence wielded by the IPC was not to be underestimated, its reach extending across the cosmos, its prominence ensuring the preservation of its power and prestige. Therefore, rather than shying away from the scrutiny, Aventurine embraced the spotlight, reveling in the recognition bestowed upon him by the throngs of onlookers.

With a subtle shift of his gaze, he surveyed the faces of his fellow players, noting the flickers of trepidation that danced across their features. It was a sight that brought him a perverse sense of satisfaction, a reminder of the raw essence of gambling—the interplay of anxiety, anticipation, and despair—that fueled his very existence.

As the tension peaked and the moment of truth arrived, Aventurine and his adversary revealed their cards to unveil identical two pairs, setting the stage for a climactic showdown. However, it was Aventurine's hidden ace that tipped the scales in his favor, securing his victory in the final round and solidifying his reputation as a master of chance.

The audience erupted into gasps of awe and scattered applause, their reactions serving as testament to Aventurine's extraordinary luck and skill. Their admiration only added to the weight of his legend, reinforcing the notion of his seemingly boundless fortune.

“Do you believe your luck will never wane?”

Amidst the flurry of excitement, Aventurine's gaze intersected with where he heard the voice. There you stood, a stoic figure amidst the throngs of spectators. Your expression, devoid of the fervor that gripped the crowd, exuded a palpable indifference that set you apart from the sea of adulation.

For Aventurine, accustomed to the praise and criticism that accompanied his every move, your silent scrutiny held a weight far greater than the cacophony of voices around him. It was as if your gaze alone bore the gravity of a thousand judgments, casting doubt upon his invincible facade.

As you gracefully departed from the scene, gliding through the crowd with an effortless poise, Aventurine felt a fleeting impulse to pursue you, to unravel the mystery behind your statement. Yet, before he could act upon his impulse, the dealer's call snapped him back to reality, redirecting his attention to the present moment.

With a final glance in your direction, Aventurine reluctantly tore his gaze away, refocusing his attention on the game at hand. Though your departure left a lingering curiosity in his mind, he knew that the cards had been dealt, and it was time to play his hand.

The following day, Aventurine ventured once more into the hallowed halls of the casino, his gaze wandered across the expanse of the venue, alighting upon a figure seated at a poker table amidst a horde of eager players. In an instant, recognition dawned upon him, for there, amidst the sea of faces, sat the individual he had encountered the day prior.

Without hesitation, Aventurine strode purposefully towards the table, his curiosity piqued by the unexpected reunion. Never had he anticipated crossing paths once more with you in a city as vast as Penacony.

As he approached, he observed the scene unfolding before him—the table abuzz with the energy of the game, the players immersed in the pursuit of fortune. However, amidst the dissonance of chips clinking and cards shuffling, his attention was drawn inexorably to you, seated with an air of composed indifference despite your apparent lack of chips.

It was the same familiar insouciance he’d seen in your first meeting. How funny.

The mocking taunts of a fellow player echoed through the room, directed towards you with a mixture of derision and amusement. Despite your depleted reserves, you remained unruffled, your countenance betraying none of the desperation that typically accompanied such circumstances.

"It appears fortune has yet to favor me," you remarked casually, your tone devoid of any hint of concern.

A ripple of laughter emanated from your adversary, his jeering palpable as he sought to goad you into yet another round of play, urging you to replenish your dwindling supply of chips. Yet, you met his jests with an inscrutable gaze in the face of his provocations.

Aventurine, with a knowing glint in his eye, couldn't help but chuckle softly at the scene. He was well acquainted with the minds of these gamblers, their intentions transparent as glass. It was clear they sought to deplete your remaining resources, confident in their ability to emerge victorious. Indeed, in their minds, the prospect of claiming more rewards danced tantalizingly.

"They will engage in further play," Aventurine interjected, his voice slicing through the air, commanding the attention of all present, including yourself. The seasoned gambler spared no glance for your fellow players; instead, his focus lingered keenly upon you, a fact not lost on the others.

Interrupting any potential protests, he spoke before you could voice your objections. 

"Since it appears they lack anything of value to offer, why not allow me to play on their behalf instead? Care to oppose?" The challenge issued by Aventurine lingered, met with smirks and laughter from the assembled men, their eyes alight with greed.

"Well, well, well... I admire your audacity, lad. The more stakes, the merrier, isn't that right?" Their laughter cascaded like a chorus, oblivious to the fact that in Aventurine, they faced a master amongst masters in the art of acquisition.

"How naive..." you muttered under your breath, earning only a gentle touch from Aventurine atop your head, his actions eliciting a look of incredulity from you.

"Regardless, shall we proceed?"

With the deal struck, the game unfurled as the dealer meticulously distributed cards to each player. You observed with keen interest, your gaze occasionally drifting toward the blonde gentleman seated beside you. Sensing your scrutiny, he met your eyes briefly before offering a sly smile, his actions enigmatic yet intriguing.

Furrowing your brow in silent inquiry, you sought to discern his intentions, but he merely pressed a finger to his lips in response.

"Remain composed and observe," his silent directive seemed to convey.

Resigned to his inscrutable demeanor, you acquiesced, allowing him free rein. As the game progressed, the man who had thus far dominated proceedings wore a self-assured smirk, placing a bid worth half a million credits. The others hesitated, yet one figure, the notorious gambler seated beside you, sees this as an opportunity.

"Ah, now we're truly delving into the heart of the matter," Aventurine chuckled, a spark of amusement dancing in his eyes as he adjusted his tinted glasses with a light touch. "Since you seem to relish in the thrill of risk-taking, my good sir, why not elevate the stakes even further?"

His words trailed off, drawing the attention of all present once more, including yours, earning him a quizzical raised eyebrow. You couldn't fathom what he had up his sleeve, but a sense of impending audacity pervaded the atmosphere.

"If fortune favors you," Aventurine continued, his tone laced with a hint of challenge, "I shall generously double all the chips you currently possess."

Gasps and murmurs break through the assembled spectators at the grit of his offer, whispers swirling with tales of his legendary gambling prowess. But, to you, his proposition came as no surprise. You were well aware of Aventurine's penchant for daring wagers, although the sheer magnitude of this gamble caught even you off guard.

"But," Aventurine's voice lowered, carrying an air of quiet authority, as he plucked a single chip from his side and deftly flicked it across the table to the stunned recipient, "should fortune favor me..."

The chip landed in the bewildered man's grasp, his expression a mix of confusion and apprehension as he gazed back at Aventurine.

"You will forfeit all the chips you've amassed from this individual," Aventurine concluded, his gaze steady and unwavering.

Your eyes widened in disbelief at his bold proclamation, a protest bubbling at the edge of your lips. 

"Hey—"

"I am the player at present, am I not?" Aventurine's tone brooked no argument, his gaze met yours, a silent reminder that he held the reins of the game.

With a resigned sigh, you bit your lower lip, restraining yourself from interjecting. After all, you weren't a participant in the game at this moment, merely an observer. And within the confines of the casino, such displays of audaciousness were not uncommon. Still, the realization that Aventurine was willing to go to such lengths to aid a stranger only added to the ever-growing meter of outrageousness you held for him.

The atmosphere crackled with anticipation as the man across the table digested Aventurine's audacious proposition. Initially met with disbelief, a subtle transformation overtook his countenance, the contours of his features twisting into a sinister smirk. A chill of foreboding gripped your senses, a premonition of impending turmoil settling like a shadow upon your consciousness.

Amidst the mounting tension, your gaze darted toward Aventurine, seeking solace in his unwavering composure. His demeanor remained calm amidst the tempestuous currents swirling around you, offering little insight into the hand he held concealed beneath the veil of his cards. With bated breath, you awaited the revelation that would determine the outcome of this high-stakes gamble, each passing moment fraught with palpable suspense.

"Very well, let us lay bare our fortunes," the old man declared, his tone laced with arrogance as he motioned towards the deck. With a flourish, the cards were revealed, their secrets laid bare for all to see.

In a swift and decisive move, Aventurine emerged victorious, his triumph resounding with effortless grace. The cocky facade of his adversary crumbled in an instant, replaced by an expression of bitter defeat as he clutched his head in despair. With a rueful sigh, he relinquished the spoils of his ill-fated gamble, returning to you the chips that had once slipped through your fingers like grains of sand.

As you and Aventurine exited the confines of the casino, the weight of gratitude settled upon your shoulders like a heavy mantle. Despite the reckless nature of his intervention, you couldn't help but feel a surge of appreciation for his timely assistance. Yet, beneath the surface of your gratitude lurked a nagging sense of wariness, a reminder of the perilous waters into which you had unwittingly waded.

"Thank you for your help back there," you offered sincerely, the words heavy with genuine appreciation. Aventurine responded with a disarming smile, though his subsequent words bore the weight of underlying intent.

"Do not misconstrue my actions as mere altruism. I acted with purpose, not without consideration for my own interests," he remarked, his tone tinged with a subtle edge that sent a shiver down your spine. "Surely, you are aware of who I am."

Closing the distance between you, Aventurine's imposing figure loomed over you, his gaze piercing and inscrutable. You felt the telltale twitch of your eyes and the tightening of your fists at your sides, a reflexive response to the palpable aura of danger that surrounded him.

"This is precisely why I avoid entanglements with individuals like yourself," you admitted, your voice laced with a mixture of resignation and apprehension.

Aventurine's laughter rang out, a melodic sound that grated against your nerves. "But in this instance, you have no choice but to engage, do you not? Now, onto the matter at hand – I seek answers regarding your cryptic statement from yesterday."

Your eyebrow arched in bemusement at his unexpected inquiry. "There was no deeper meaning to my words. I merely commented on your inherent luck, having observed your exploits within the casino since your arrival in Penacony."

Pinching the bridge of your nose, you cursed inwardly at the unforeseen repercussions of your offhand remark. Aventurine's scrutinizing gaze bore into you with unsettling intensity, seemingly searching for any trace of falsehood within your composed demeanor.

"Very well, if that is indeed the case, then I have another proposition for you," he declared, a mischievous glint dancing in his eyes. Your heart quickened at the implication of trouble brewing on the horizon, yet you met his gaze with steely resolve.

"And what might that be?"

"Be my eyes and ears here in Penacony," Aventurine proposed, his smirk widening into a grin that sent a chill down your spine.

The story of your unlikely alliance with Aventurine had begun. If ever the unexpected news circulated amongst the circles of Penacony, many would find it incredulous that someone of his stature, a member of the esteemed Ten Stonehearts, would place trust in a mere stranger. Indeed, to the uninitiated observer, the notion seemed absurd – a contradiction in terms that defied logic and reason. But, for Aventurine, such trivial matters held little sway over his calculated decisions.

To him, trust was a commodity to be traded with caution, its value contingent upon a myriad of factors that extended far beyond surface appearances. In his world, betrayal and deception were the currency of every world, woven seamlessly into his existence. And so, when he extended his offer to you, it was not born of blind faith or naivety, but rather a calculated gamble rooted in the certainty of his own capabilities.

He knew, with certainty, that even if you were to betray him or fabricate falsehoods in his presence, he possessed the keen intellect and astute intuition to discern truth from lies. In his eyes, you were but a pawn in his grand scheme – a pawn whose movements he could predict with precision, regardless of the facades you chose to adopt.

However, to his surprise and consternation, you defied his expectations at every turn. Despite your initial reluctance and the aloof demeanor you projected, you proved yourself to be a reliable ally – one whose resourcefulness and ingenuity surpassed his own assumptions.

How did you gather your intel, he wondered? Was it through mingling with the citizens of Penacony, ingratiating yourself into their midst to extract information like a skilled puppeteer manipulating marionettes? Aventurine pondered these questions with a mixture of intrigue and frustration, unable to fathom the depths of your strategy.

Perhaps it was a sense of indebtedness that drove you, he mused. The desire to repay a perceived debt hanging heavy upon your conscience, compelling you to fulfill your obligations despite your reservations. Or perhaps, you were simply averse to owing favors, unwilling to be beholden to another soul, even one as formidable as Aventurine.

Whatever the reason, Aventurine found himself grappling with the mystery that was you – a puzzle whose pieces refused to align neatly within the edges of his understanding. And though he may never unravel the mysteries of your motivations, he couldn't deny the undeniable truth: in you, he had encountered a force to be reckoned with – a fool, perhaps, but a fool whose strength lay in the depths of your unfathomable resolve.

In the bustling streets of Penacony, amidst the cacophony of laughter and music that permeated the air, you continued your clandestine endeavors as Aventurine's trusted confidant. With practiced discretion, you navigated the labyrinthine alleys and bustling marketplaces, seamlessly blending into the tapestry of everyday life in the Land of Festivities. To the casual observer, you were but another face in the crowd – unremarkable, inconspicuous, and utterly forgettable.

Yet, beneath the veneer of anonymity, you carried out your duties with unwavering dedication and precision. Gathering tidbits of information like shards of broken glass, you pieced together the intricate puzzle of Penacony's underworld, all the while maintaining a facade of normalcy to ward off any suspicion that may arise.

Aventurine, ever the astute observer, commended your efforts with a rare display of generosity, treating you to rounds of soulglads despite your persistent protests. You rebuffed his gestures with firm resolve, adamant in your refusal to be indebted to him once more. Yet, despite your best efforts to maintain a facade of detachment, Aventurine possessed a knack for circumventing your defenses, his genuine concern and camaraderie slipping through the cracks of your stoic exterior.

For Aventurine, whose existence had long been steeped in solitude and mistrust, your presence offered a rare glimpse of authenticity amidst the sea of duplicity that surrounded him. Though he wore the mask of manipulation and trickery with practiced ease, there lingered within him a kernel of genuineness – a flicker of humanity that defied the confines of his carefully constructed facade.

Trusting others had always been a precarious endeavor for Aventurine, a vulnerability he was loath to embrace. To him, every word spoken and gesture made was a calculated maneuver, a chess move in the intricate game of deception that defined his existence. Yet, in your company, he found himself traversing uncharted territory – a realm where sincerity and trust held sway, however fleetingly.

As days transitioned into days, and days into weeks, the bond between you and Aventurine grew stronger, shaped within the crucible of mutual understanding and respect. 

The vibrant hues of dawn painted the skyline of Penacony's skyscrapers in surreal brilliance, you stood alongside Aventurine at the Dream's Edge, marveling at the breathtaking spectacle unfolding before you. The scene was surreal, almost otherworldly, for how could there be a sunrise in the Dreamscape—a world where reality and dreams intertwine?

However, amidst the awe-inspiring panorama, a sense of anticipation hung in the air, tinged with a hint of uncertainty. Why had Aventurine summoned you to this ethereal realm, away from the hustle and bustle of waking life, with no other souls in sight?

As you gaze upon Aventurine's countenance, a wave of surprise and intrigue washes over you, for the sight before you is unlike anything you've ever beheld. The ethereal glow of the sun caresses his features, casting a radiant halo around him, as if nature itself conspired to illuminate his presence.

His visage, once adorned with the mischievous curve of a smirk, now wears an expression of profound introspection. Those eyes, usually dancing with mischief, now reflect a depth of emotion you've never witnessed before—a blend of serenity and sorrow that tugs at the strings of your heart.

Gone is the cocksure grin that was his trademark, replaced by a solemnity that seems to weigh heavily upon him. It's as if a veil has been lifted, revealing a side of Aventurine you never knew existed—a side that is raw, vulnerable, and achingly human.

Aventurine stands amidst the whispers of the breeze, his silhouette a portrait of contemplation against the canvas of dawn. His golden tresses dance in harmony with the wind, a silent symphony of nature's serenade. But it's not just the tendrils of his hair that sway; there's a subtle dance in his demeanor, a rhythm of emotions that ripple beneath the surface.

In the soft glow of sunlight, his features are painted with an ethereal hue, casting shadows that play upon the landscape of his face. There's a longing, a yearning, etched in the lines of his brow, as though he's searching for something beyond the horizon, something elusive yet tantalizingly close. His eyes, windows to the depths of his soul, betray the secrets he guards so closely, each flicker and glimmer a testament to the complexities hidden within.

You've been tethered to his side, bound by a debt that intertwines your fates in a dance of obligation and intrigue. Yet, despite the proximity, the enigma of Aventurine remains veiled in mystery. He is a man of many facets, a puzzle with pieces that shift and rearrange with every passing moment. Cunning and unpredictable, he defies easy categorization, a riddle waiting to be unraveled.

Through numerous interactions, the two of you have maintained a strictly professional relationship, focused solely on exchanging gathered information. Neither of you delved into personal matters, content with knowing only the basics about each other. This engagement is a singular occurrence, with no desire to complicate matters further. There's a firm boundary between you, each respecting the other's space and avoiding unnecessary entanglements.

In the midst of a tranquil moment, punctuated only by the soft whispers of the breeze, his voice broke the silence, drawing your focus away from the horizon. Without turning to meet your gaze, he posed a question that seemed innocuous on the surface but hinted at a deeper curiosity.

"What brings you to Penacony? Is it for leisure or some other purpose?"

Your response, delivered with a casual nonchalance, betrayed none of the complexity brewing beneath the surface. "No particular reason. Just wandering, as wanderers tend to do."

As you drew closer to him, mirroring his contemplative stance.. But it was his next words that stirred something within you, a recognition of the carefully guarded boundaries you both maintained.

"You're an enigma," Aventurine mused, his tone betraying a hint of curiosity tinged with respect. "I know nothing of your origins, your affiliations, or even the world you call home. You exist as a blank canvas against the backdrop of the universe."

His observation prompts you to turn towards him, a faint grimace touching your features. It's clear that his words have struck a chord, stirring a sense of curiosity within you that matches his own.

"You went snooping into my background?" Your words cut through the air with a sharpness that catches Aventurine's attention. 

"And the idea of me discreetly digging into your background never crossed your mind?" Aventurine's tone carries a hint of amusement.

"I had my suspicions, especially considering your ties to the IPC. Knowing you, you always manage to dig up information to give yourself an edge. But I'll give credit where it's due; at least you're forthright about it, even if it does irk me."

"Right now?" Aventurine raises an eyebrow, his amusement growing.

"Yes, right now.”

"But why can't I detect any anger in your demeanor?" 

"Because I'm not one to wear my emotions on my sleeve. I prefer to keep them under wraps," you explain, a sense of guardedness creeping into your voice.

Aventurine's laughter rings out at your refusal, his amusement evident in the glint of his eyes. "Unfair, isn't it? You hold all the cards, knowing who I am, while I'm left in the dark except for a mere name and your claim of being a wanderer. But how about a little game?"

Your expression twists in disdain at his transparent attempt to glean information. You see through his ploy and have no intention of playing along.

"I won't indulge your little charade just to satisfy your curiosity about me. Nice try," you retort firmly.

Aventurine's grin widens as he deftly flips a coin through his fingers, the metallic glint catching the light before he catches it effortlessly. 

"Such a shame.”

Once more, silence descends between you, a tense pause punctuated only by the soft rustle of the wind. Then, Aventurine breaks the quiet again with a pointed question. 

"So, perhaps you know my origin?"

As you locked gazes with Aventurine, a subtle shift in his demeanor didn't escape your notice. His voice, usually laced with confidence and bravado, now carried a hushed tone, tinged with an underlying tremor that uncovered a vulnerability you had never before witnessed in him. It was a nuance that spoke volumes, revealing a depth of emotion that contradicted his stoic facade.

In that moment, as the weight of his unspoken words hung heavy in the air, your gaze was drawn to his features—the striking contours of his face, the subtle symmetry that bespoke a beauty both rare and captivating. It was a beauty that bespoke his heritage, his lineage tracing back to the long-lost race of Avgins, a people now consigned to the annals of history.

The knowledge of his origins colored your perception of him, for you understood the burden he bore as one of the last of his kind. Avgins, known for their exquisite beauty and mesmerizing eyes, had long been subjected to discrimination and extinction, their very existence a reminder of a bygone era fraught with prejudice and fear.

You couldn't fault him for his choice to conceal his eyes behind tinted glasses, for you knew all too well the scrutiny and suspicion that awaited those who carried the unmistakable mark of their ancestry. In every world where difference was met with disdain, Aventurine's desire to shield himself from prying eyes was not born of vanity, but of necessity—a means of self-preservation in a society quick to judge and condemn.

And yet, even as he sought refuge behind his carefully constructed facade, there was a rawness to him, a vulnerability that transcended the barriers he had erected. In his eyes, you glimpsed the echoes of a lost heritage, the silent lament of a people erased from history, and in that moment, you found yourself drawn to him in a way you had never imagined possible. For beneath the mask of his bravado lay a soul as fragile and ephemeral as the dawn, yearning to be seen and understood in a world that had long since forgotten of the adversity.

"Yes, I do..." Your admission lingers in the air, carried away by the wind that brushes past, stirring the stillness that settled over the conversation. Aventurine's reaction is subtle, a scoff followed by a nonchalant shrug, his gaze shifting towards the towering skyscrapers that dominate the skyline.

"Not surprising," he remarks dismissively.

As you watch him, a faint blemish mars the pristine image you've always held of Aventurine. It's a glimpse of vulnerability, fleeting yet unmistakable, like a small blotch of ink on an otherwise clean canvas. It catches you off guard, leaving you momentarily speechless.

But just as quickly as it appeared, the vulnerability vanishes, replaced by Aventurine's usual composed facade as though nothing had transpired.

His sudden question jolts you back to the present, breaking the silence once more. "Do you think life is meaningless?" 

It's unexpected, a departure from the usual banter and guarded exchanges between you. For a moment, you're caught off guard, searching for an answer devoid of pretense or artifice.

"Well, if you ask me, maybe it is, maybe not." Your response carries a sense of introspection, reflecting the uncertainty that comes with a life spent wandering the vast expanse of the universe without a clear destination. "I've been traveling aimlessly for many years, letting my feet guide me wherever they please. In essence, I suppose you could say my existence lacks a defined purpose. So perhaps life does seem meaningless."

You pause, considering your next words carefully. "But then again, don't we all have something we yearn for, even in the midst of aimlessness? Whether it's something grand or seemingly insignificant, there's always a longing, a desire to attain or achieve something. And perhaps, in the pursuit of that something, we find purpose."

Aventurine regards you with an inscrutable expression, his eyes betraying nothing.

"What if that something is death?" he poses, his question hanging heavy in the air, casting a shadow over the conversation.

You allow the silence to envelop you, granting it the space to linger between you before offering your heartfelt response. 

"If one desires death, shouldn't they cease struggling to stay alive, to preserve themselves? Why endure the effort of self-preservation if death is the ultimate desire? It seems contradictory."

You continue, your words measured yet earnest. "Self-preservation, in itself, suggests a desire to continue living, to pursue something beyond mere existence. And in that pursuit, even if it leads to death, there lies purpose. For what is life, if not a series of pursuits, desires, and aspirations?"

As you continue speaking, Aventurine's attention remains fixed on you, though his mind is a hurricane of conflicting emotions. He finds himself grappling with a sudden surge of questions, an inexplicable urge to peel back the layers of his carefully constructed pretense and lay bare the vulnerabilities he so meticulously conceals.

The landscape before him, though undoubtedly breathtaking to most, elicits a different reaction in Aventurine. Instead of wonder or awe, he feels a deep-seated unease, a gnawing sense of unworthiness that claws at the edges of his consciousness. It's as if he's an intruder in a world to which he doesn't belong, a sentiment reinforced by his own self-imposed exile from the beauty and splendor that surrounds him.

For Aventurine, the harsh realities of his upbringing on a barren, unforgiving world have left an indelible mark on his psyche. He's accustomed to a life of scarcity and struggle, where survival is earned through grit and determination rather than basking in the luxuries of a privileged existence. The opulence of his surroundings only serves to highlight the stark contrast between his own perceived inadequacies and the perceived perfection of those around him.

And yet, despite his inner turmoil, Aventurine's gaze remains fixed on you, drawn to the radiant warmth that seems to emanate from your very being. In your presence, he feels the weight of his self-imposed limitations pressing down upon him, a reminder of the vast chasm that separates him from the world above.

As you stand bathed in the golden glow of the sunlight, Aventurine can't help but feel a pang of envy, a longing to inhabit the same ethereal orbit where you reside. But deep down, he knows that such aspirations are futile, for he is bound by the shackles of his own insecurities, forever consigned to the shadows while you soar amongst the stars.

He is nothing.

He ushered you to this secluded spot, not for another mission or strategy session, but to bid you farewell. The contract that bound you together, the alliance forged through countless endeavors, has reached its natural conclusion. Every detail meticulously arranged, thanks in no small part to your invaluable insights. Now, standing before you, he prepares to embark on the final leg of his journey, a path long contemplated and now irrevocably chosen.

Meeting you, sharing in the trials of your joint mission, has been a rare pleasure. Your presence, marked by spirited banter and unwavering determination, injected vitality into the often grim landscape of their pursuits. Despite the looming risks and the gravity of his objectives, he couldn't help but relish the moments spent in your company.

As he extends his farewell, he acknowledges the uncertainty of future encounters. Though he harbors a wish for another meeting, circumstances dictate otherwise. Your captivating insights and spirited exchanges will be dearly missed, yet he remains resolute in his chosen course, prepared to confront the perils ahead, come what may. 

"Well, thank you for your answers. Anyway, I brought you here to let you know that our meeting has reached its conclusion. You've fulfilled your role as my eyes and ears, and now you're free to go about your business," Aventurine stated, slipping back into his old mask—his facade.

You blinked a few times, absorbing his words. Finally, this chapter was over.

"Is that so? I'm finally free," you sighed in relief, stretching your arms with a smile. "Being around you was quite draining."

"It seems I've been a handful, haven't I?"

"Yes, you have. You're insufferable. So, you're ready to part ways then?"

"I do tend to be insufferable, I won't deny that. And to answer your question, yes I am. Thanks to your intel, my plans are set. You've proven quite reliable, considering you're a wanderer."

"Well, being a wanderer does have its advantages. I can gather information without raising suspicion since I blend in with the crowd," you remarked, nonchalantly shrugging.

"You do seem rather ordinary, so you blend well.."

"Excuse me?"

As you leveled a sharp glance at Aventurine, expecting defiance or retort, you were instead met with a sight that stirred a strange sensation within you. His countenance, usually guarded and conniving, softened into an expression of genuine warmth. His eyes, usually veiled with caution, now held an openness that caught you off guard. It was as though a veil had been lifted, revealing a side of him you had never seen before.

His words, spoken with a sincerity that resonated in the air. "How I'd love to be one. To be ordinary," he uttered, his voice carrying a weight of longing and acceptance. 

You found yourself speechless, unable to respond to the exposure he laid bare before you. Despite the complexities of his past and the challenges he faced as an Avgin working under the IPC, his desire for normalcy spoke volumes about the inner turmoil he grappled with.

Your own internal conflict is mirrored in the clenching of your jaw, rendering you unable to articulate a response. Yet, amidst the silence, a silent understanding seemed to bridge the gap between you. Aventurine's earnest gaze conveyed more than words ever could, laying bare the vulnerabilities he harbored beneath his mask..

Driven by an impulse you couldn't quite comprehend, you took a step closer to him, closing the distance between you. With a gentle touch, you extended your fingers and playfully poked his forehead, eliciting a look of surprise and astonishment from him. But what followed was even more unexpected—an expression of genuine tenderness gracing your own features, a smile that reached the depths of your soul and offered solace in its warmth. In that fleeting moment, barriers fell away, and you realized that beneath the surface, you and Aventurine were not so different after all.

"You know, if you really wanted to, you could just blend in and be ordinary like everyone else," you murmured gently, finally tearing your gaze away from him. Aventurine, startled, snapped out of his trance.

"Oh, is that right?" Aventurine chuckled.

"Yeah, it's an option," you replied nonchalantly. "Anyway, I should get going."

"So soon?" Aventurine turned to you, surprised.

"Yeah, got some other stuff to take care of, and my debt to you is settled," you explained.

"You wound me," Aventurine feigned hurt, gesturing dramatically. "Our last day together, and you're leaving so soon?"

"You're not seriously trying to guilt-trip me into staying, are you?" you teased.

Aventurine smirked. "Wouldn't dream of it."

"Alright then," you said, increasing the distance between you two as you walked away. Glancing back over your shoulder, you smirked. "Once you're done with your mission, let's meet here again."

"What?" Aventurine was taken aback, still processing your words as he watched you walk away. You stopped, meeting his gaze.

"Didn't catch that? I said, let's meet again after your mission.” you said firmly, facing away from him as you delivered your final words, arm raised in farewell.

“All you need to do is survive.”

As Aventurine watched you depart, his mind swirled with contrasting emotions. Your parting words lingered in the air, a bittersweet reminder of the connection he feared he might never experience again. Despite the gravity of the situation, he remained silent, resigned to the path he had chosen, knowing that his decision to face his final gamble in Penacony was irreversible.

In the depths of his thoughts, a sense of acceptance settled within him. He chuckled softly, a wistful acknowledgment of the irony of his predicament. The weight of his impending fate bore down on him, yet a flicker of defiance burned within his soul.

With a shake of his head, he banished the doubts that threatened to cloud his resolve. This was his moment, his grand finale, and he would meet it head-on, whatever the outcome. As he stepped forward into the yawning chasm of uncertainty, he braced himself for the challenges that lay ahead, knowing that his ultimate gamble would redefine everything.

Survival or death—there was no middle ground. And as he prepared to face the unknown, Aventurine steeled himself for the ultimate test of his mettle.

Let’s meet again, (Name).

Aventurine's eyelids flutter open, a groan escaping his lips as he gradually regains consciousness. The world swims into focus, the familiar surroundings of his hotel room greeting him with muted hues and soft shadows. Yet, despite the comfort of familiarity, a dull ache permeates every fiber of his being, a lingering reminder of the ordeal he endured in the depths of his subconscious.

As he gingerly shifts his weight, Aventurine feels the weight of exhaustion settling over him like a heavy blanket, each movement a testament to the toll exacted by his nightmarish journey. It's as if his very essence has been drained, leaving behind a shell of his former self, battered and bruised by the trials of his own mind.

With trembling fingers, he reaches out, tracing the contours of his hand as if searching for reassurance in the solidity of his own flesh. It's a small gesture, but one imbued with profound significance—a tangible reminder of his resilience in the face of adversity, a testament to his survival against all odds.

As the realization of his newfound freedom dawns upon him, Aventurine can't help but feel a surge of disbelief coursing through his veins. To think that he has emerged from the depths of despair, liberated from the shackles of his past, is nothing short of miraculous. With his ties to the IPC severed, he stands at a crossroads, poised on the precipice of uncertainty, yet emboldened by the promise of possibility.

But amidst the uncertainty, one thing remains clear—Aventurine is free. Free to chart his own course, to forge his own destiny without the constraints of fate or expectation weighing him down. And though the path ahead may be fraught with challenges and unknown dangers, he faces it with a newfound sense of determination, ready to embrace whatever the future may hold.

Aventurine's body protests as he pushes himself upright, the sharp pang of pain shooting through him like lightning. Yet, despite the discomfort, he manages to muster the strength to survey his surroundings, his gaze landing on the figure nestled on the sofa. At first, his mind struggles to comprehend the sight before him—a flicker of disbelief mingled with a hint of incredulity.

But as recognition dawns upon him, Aventurine's eyes widen in astonishment, his breath catching in his throat as he realizes that it's you who occupies the space in his room. The realization sends a surge of diverging emotions coursing through him, a mixture of surprise, confusion, and a strange sense of comfort.

He watches you in silent wonder, your form bathed in the soft glow of moonlight filtering through the curtains, your features serene in the embrace of slumber. It's a sight that both perplexes and soothes him.

Aventurine's mind races with questions, each one vying for his attention as he grapples with the inexplicable presence of your presence in his room. Did you wait for him? Why are you here? And most importantly, why him? The answers elude him, shrouded in a veil of uncertainty that only serves to deepen the mystery surrounding your unexpected reunion.

Despite the barrage of inquiries swirling in his mind, Aventurine finds himself unable to suppress the tender smile that tugs at the corners of his lips. In this moment of exposure, your presence serves as an anchor of solace, a comforting reminder that he is not alone in this vast and unforgiving universe.

Nevertheless, Aventurine expressed gratitude towards you. Despite your indifferent demeanor towards him and your aversion to getting involved in troublesome situations, you found yourself in his room, patiently awaiting his return, even though the odds of survival were slim.

Aventurine watches as you stir from your slumber, your movements hesitant yet purposeful as you rise from the sofa and approach him with a sense of urgency. His heart quickens at the sight of you, a mixture of relief and apprehension coursing through him as your eyes meet in the dimly lit room.

Your sudden appearance catches him off guard, the lines of fatigue etched into your features a stark contrast to the serene calmness of your slumber. But, despite the weariness that hangs heavy in the air, there is a palpable sense of anticipation, a silent acknowledgment of the unspoken bond that binds you together.

As you draw nearer, Aventurine's breath catches in his throat, his gaze fixated on your every movement as if trying to decipher the thoughts racing through your mind. He waits with bated breath for you to speak, but the silence stretches on, punctuated only by the soft sound of your footsteps echoing in the room.

Unable to bear the quiet any longer, Aventurine breaks the tension with a gentle smile, his voice soft yet filled with warmth. "I didn't expect to see you here," he murmurs, his words hanging in the air like a delicate thread connecting them in the darkness.

You remain silent, your expression unreadable as you stand before him, your eyes searching his face for answers that remain elusive. Aventurine's smile falters slightly at the lack of response, a flicker of uncertainty clouding his features as he waits for you to break the silence that hangs heavy between them.

"Are we just going to have a staring contest?" he jests, prompting a weary sigh from you.

"You're finally awake," your voice was calm but tinged with concern. "How are you feeling?"

Aventurine blinked. "Like my entire body's cramped up, and my head's splitting in two. So, basically, like crap."

"That's because you've been out for weeks. You need to rest."

"Do I really have to when I've basically been sleeping for the whole duration of my coma?" he scoffed, earning another sigh from you.

"What I meant was rest like a normal person. Sleep in a proper bed, not in this decrepit bathtub. It's different when you're not in the Dreamscape," you explained matter-of-factly, rolling your eyes. Aventurine chuckled at your bluntness.

"Are you worried?" he asked.

"No," you replied flatly.

"Really? Then why are you here in my room, sleeping like a log?" he teased, and you grimaced at him.

"I'm only here to keep my word."

"Your word?" His eyebrow arched in confusion.

"When I said we'd meet again."

Aventurine's laughter rings out, breaking the weighty silence that had settled between you like a heavy fog. It's a sound filled with incredulity and a touch of irony, a reflection of the tumultuous emotions swirling within him as he grapples with the gravity of the situation.

For him, the realization is nothing short of staggering—that you, of all people, had placed your trust in him, believing in his ability to survive against all odds. It's a notion that borders on the absurd, given the precarious circumstances that had surrounded your parting, but one that now takes on a profound significance in the wake of your unexpected reunion.

As your gaze locks with his, drawn by the unexpected sound of his laughter, Aventurine finds himself at a loss for words. How could he have ever doubted the sincerity of your intentions, the faith you had placed in him even when all hope seemed lost?

"What's so funny?" you asked, puzzled by Aventurine's sudden burst of laughter.

Aventurine's laughter subsided, and he regarded you seriously. "I never expected this. You always manage to surprise me. Are you that determined to ensure our next meeting?"

Your expression twisted in disgust at the thought, which only served to fuel Aventurine's amusement. He laughed even harder at your reaction.

"It seems you're back to your usual self now," you remarked between laughs. "Well then, I suppose I'll be on my way."

But just as you turned to leave, Aventurine caught your wrist, halting your steps. "Oops! Just kidding. You really don't have much of a sense of humor, do you?"

You shot him a glare in response, but he seemed unfazed, his gaze softening as he spoke with a newfound seriousness. His words carried a weight that belied their simplicity.

"You know, I want to become a wave and run anywhere," he confessed, his voice tinged with a wistful longing. "Because even if I get swept away and get lost, I'm free."

There was a vulnerability in his words, a raw honesty that laid bare his innermost desires. It was a sentiment that resonated with you on some level, stirring something deep within your own heart.

"Even if you get lost again," you replied softly, your voice barely above a whisper, "you still will know your way back. You know it yourself, after all, you're still breathing up until now."

Aventurine's gaze softened, his eyes searching yours with a depth of understanding that took you by surprise. And then, almost coyly, he made a request that seemed to hang in the air between you like an unspoken promise.

"Could you stay here a little longer?" he implored, his voice tinged with a vulnerability that debunk his usual confidence.

Aventurine's touch on your wrist sent a shiver down your spine, his thumb tracing a delicate path that seemed to awaken a flurry of sensations within you. Despite your initial instinct to recoil from his unexpected gesture, you found yourself captivated by the gentle caress, unable to tear your gaze away from the intensity of his eyes.

As you met his hypnotic gaze head-on, you couldn't help but acknowledge the sheer beauty that radiated from within those mesmerizing orbs. Up close, Aventurine's eyes were a breathtaking kaleidoscope of colors, each hue dancing in the light like shards of precious gemstones. It was a sight to behold, one that left you momentarily spellbound by its sheer magnificence.

"What? Why do you want me to stay?" you asked, your voice betraying a hint of confusion.

For a moment, Aventurine remained silent, his gaze never wavering from yours as if searching for the right words to convey his thoughts. And then, with a quiet sincerity that took you by surprise, he spoke.

"Have you already forgotten?" he responded, his voice a soft murmur that seemed to envelop the space between you. "You were the one who encouraged me to speak my mind, weren’t you? I simply followed your advice. But truthfully... It's because I desire your company. It's strangely... comforting."

You sighed, feeling the tension in your shoulders dissipate as you contemplated his request. "I suppose it wouldn't do any harm to indulge your request occasionally," you relented, a subtle smile playing at the edges of your lips. "I'll grant you some leeway, considering you appear to be like a patient in bed."

Aventurine's laughter filled the room once more, a melodious sound that seemed to echo with a sense of amusement.

"How lucky I am," he remarked, his eyes twinkling with mischief as he savored the moment. It was as though he reveled in the serendipity of your encounter, finding solace in the unexpected connection that had brought you two together.

As the laughter subsided, he couldn't help but be curious about the circumstances that had led you to his room. 

"So, how did you get in my room?" 

Your expression turned thoughtful for a moment, as if pondering how best to explain. "Oh, I met this Doctor called Veritas Ratio.”

As Aventurine chuckled at the absurdity of it all, he couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the unexpected twists and turns that had led you to this ending scene, here and now, with you by Aventurine’s side.

[zapreportsblog]

Hey babyyyyy,

Can we do some more poly!volturi kings x reader where the reader has a great family bond with the guards? And the kings are so proud like "that's the kind of queen we needed."

This sounds perfect, hope you enjoy it ✨

↳ bonds beyond blood ↲

➘ summary : the three volturi kings are proud that their mate is getting along so well with their top guards

➘ aro x reader x caius x marcus, twilight x reader , volturi x reader

In the heart of Volterra's ancient citadel, where shadows danced and history whispered through the stones, the Volturi reigned supreme. Aro, the charismatic mastermind; Marcus, the contemplative soul; and Caius, the unyielding enforcer, ruled with an iron grip, their names synonymous with power in the supernatural realm.

But the immortal facade these kings presented to the world belied the intricate web of emotions they harbored for one human: (Y/N), a woman whose presence ignited a transformation within their centuries-old hearts.

The tale began on an unassuming evening, when (Y/N)'s fate collided with that of the Volturi. Lost in the labyrinthine streets of Volterra, she wandered into their world, unaware of the enigma that awaited her. Aro's gifted sight caught the glimpse of a mortal, a fragile soul amidst the immortal world. Intrigued, he beckoned her forward, a single interaction setting in motion a destiny no one could foresee.

As (Y/N) stood before the thrones of the three kings, her heart pounding, she couldn't ignore the inexplicable pull she felt. Aro's penetrating gaze, Marcus' contemplative demeanor, and Caius' unyielding aura seemed to draw her in, weaving a connection she struggled to understand.

The kings' curiosity grew as they observed her, each captivated by the essence she brought to their lives. Aro's laughter became more vibrant, Marcus' rare smiles more frequent, and Caius' stern façade softened in her presence. A silent understanding flowed between them, forging a bond that transcended human limitations.

While (Y/N)'s presence changed the kings, it also ignited an unexpected kinship among their loyal guards. Alec and Jane, the gifted twins who once struck fear into the hearts of enemies, found in (Y/N) a maternal figure they had never experienced. Her warmth and wisdom touched the depths of their immortal hearts, transforming their relationship into one of unwavering trust.

Felix, the formidable protector, discovered an unexpected gentleness in (Y/N), a trait that resonated deeply with his own spirit. Demetri, the master tracker, admired her determination, finding a kindred spirit in her unwavering resolve.

But it was Alec and Jane who held the most unique connection with (Y/N). With their childlike appearances frozen in time, they looked to her as a maternal figure they had never known. (Y/N) nurtured them with her wisdom, guided them with her love, and in return, the twins showered her with unwavering loyalty and adoration.

In the shadowed halls of the Volturi castle, an intricate dance of relationships unfolded. Kings and guards, vampire and human, became bound by bonds that defied tradition and expectation. (Y/N) stood at the heart of it all, an unwitting catalyst for change and unity.

As the days turned to nights, and (Y/N)'s presence continued to weave its magic, none could anticipate the challenges that lay ahead. Threats both old and new would test the strength of their bonds, and the very fabric of their existence would be shaken.

But in that moment, as the castle's stone walls whispered secrets of centuries past, the Volturi kings and their beloved human mate reveled in the newfound harmony they had forged. They were yet to understand that this harmony would become their greatest strength in the trials that awaited them.

In the heart of the grand Volturi castle, (Y/N)'s presence continued to illuminate the lives of both kings and guards. The bond she shared with Aro, Marcus, and Caius flourished, growing stronger with each passing day. It was a connection that transcended time, defying the very laws that governed their supernatural existence.

As (Y/N) navigated the intricacies of the immortal world, she found herself drawn into the lives of the twins, Alec and Jane. Their once-uncertain existence had transformed into one filled with warmth and acceptance, all thanks to the woman who looked upon them with the eyes of a guardian. She provided guidance, friendship, and a motherly love they had never experienced.

Alec and Jane, once feared for their devastating abilities, now wielded their powers with control and restraint, a testament to (Y/N)'s patient guidance. They had found in her the stability they needed, a figure of trust they could confide in and look up to.

Felix and Demetri, too, had been touched by (Y/N)'s presence. Felix's exterior, once unyielding, softened in the glow of her compassion. He had found solace in her calming influence, a touchstone of gentleness amid the tumultuous world he inhabited. Demetri, with his unerring tracking skills, marveled at (Y/N)'s strength and resilience. He respected her as an equal, an ally, and a friend.

As days turned to nights and the castle's halls echoed with secrets, (Y/N) embraced her role within the Volturi's inner circle. The kings, once distant figures of power, now confided in her their thoughts and hopes, their fears and aspirations. Their bond with her had opened a door to vulnerability, allowing them to share a side of themselves that had long remained hidden.

However, the tranquility that (Y/N) had brought to the Volturi world would soon be disrupted by shadows that lurked on the horizon. Rumors of a rising force, one that sought to challenge the very foundations of their rule, began to circulate. It was a threat that no one could ignore, and the unity forged among kings, guards, and their human mate would be put to the test.

As tension mounted, the intricate relationships woven within the castle walls would be shaken to their core. Loyalties would be questioned, and the limits of love and friendship would be pushed to their breaking point. The kings and their newfound family, bound by love rather than blood, would have to stand together to face the storm that approached.

And so, as the sun dipped below the horizon and cast long shadows across the ancient city, the Volturi prepared to confront a challenge that would either strengthen their bonds beyond measure or shatter the delicate harmony they had built. (Y/N)'s presence, once an unexpected thread in the fabric of their lives, would prove to be the source of strength that held them together in the face of adversity.

Within the towering walls of the Volturi castle, a sense of anticipation hung in the air. As (Y/N) moved through the grand halls, her steps were now accompanied by an underlying tension. The threat that loomed on the horizon was palpable, casting a shadow over the unity she had helped foster.

The kings, Aro, Marcus, and Caius, convened in their private chamber, their expressions etched with a rare mixture of concern and determination. (Y/N) was there, a steadfast presence amidst their deliberations, a living testament to the bonds they had forged.

Aro's eyes gleamed with his usual curiosity, though there was an edge of worry that betrayed his usual confidence. Marcus, ever the observer, seemed to contemplate the future with a weight that surpassed his years. Caius, the embodiment of authority, clenched his jaw, his resolve unwavering in the face of impending conflict.

Beside them, Alec and Jane stood, their faces a mirror of their guardians'. The twins who had found a maternal figure in (Y/N) were now mature beyond their years, their commitment to the family they had formed unwavering. Felix and Demetri flanked the group, their expressions a mixture of vigilance and readiness, ever prepared to defend those they held dear.

As the kings deliberated, (Y/N)'s gaze shifted to the window, her thoughts a whirlwind of emotions. She had become a part of this intricate tapestry, her life interwoven with those of kings and guards alike. The unity they had cultivated was a source of strength, but it was about to be tested in ways they couldn't predict.

News had reached the Volturi of a faction that sought to challenge their dominion, a group that believed their way of life was threatened by the kings' rule. The realization that their world could be on the brink of upheaval sent ripples of tension through the castle's inhabitants.

With a sense of resolve, Aro turned his gaze toward (Y/N), his voice steady yet tinged with urgency. "My dear (Y/N)," he began, "we are faced with a challenge that demands our unity. The bonds we have formed must not falter in the face of adversity."

Marcus, his usually somber eyes showing a glimmer of determination, continued, "We have faced countless challenges throughout history. Our strength lies in our ability to stand together."

Caius, the embodiment of authority, spoke with a conviction that sent shivers down the spines of all present. "We must protect what we've built, even if it means confronting those who seek to undermine us."

And so, a plan began to take shape, a strategy that relied on the unique strengths of each individual. (Y/N)'s role in this impending conflict was not to be underestimated; her presence had already proven to be a beacon of strength, a source of inspiration for those who fought beside her.

As the sun dipped below the horizon and cast long shadows across the castle walls, a sense of anticipation settled over the Volturi stronghold. Bonds forged through love and shared purpose would soon be put to the test, as the unity of kings, guards, and their human mate stood against the gathering storm.

And as the first drops of rain began to fall, (Y/N) braced herself for the challenges ahead, ready to stand by the side of those she held dear and face whatever trials fate had in store.

[zaczenemiji]

Morpheus x Goddess!Arianrhod!Reader

Synopsis: In the Corona Borealis, Arianrhod finds herself preoccupied with thoughts of Morpheus. Unexpectedly drawn into The Dreaming, Arianrhod encounters him again, leading to an exchange that hints at deeper connections and future

Author’s Note: From this part onwards, alterations on the lore and nature of Arianrhod from the Welsh mythology was made to better fit the plot.

Word Count: 2,217

PART ONE

PART TWO

✧ Dream Upon A Star ✧

In the swirling galaxy of stars deep within the cosmos, there nests an ethereal realm. A mystical domain inhabited by celestial beings: the star fairies, moon guardians, cosmic weavers, seasonal spirits, and celestial animals. All of which were created and governed by their supreme ruler.

At the center of the realm towers a magnificent fortress that rises high into the cosmos—Caer Arianrhod, the Spiral Castle. Its walls glow with soft celestial light, creating an ever-changing display of colors reminiscent of the auroras. Its towers reach into the heavens, crowned with observatories.

In the heart of the castle is the Hall of Stars, a grand hall with an open ceiling where stars and galaxies are visible in their full splendor. Here, Lyrael, the first weaver of the celestial loom, awaits her queen.

Not long after, a silver light appeared. It turned into a swirling vortex of stars, and from there, Arianrhod emerged. Her arrival resonated within the realm, informing its inhabitants of their queen’s return.

“Welcome home, your highness,” Lyrael greeted with a bow. Before Arianrhod could even respond, her celestial owl flew quickly towards her, landing on her arm.

“Lunara!” the goddess greeted as she petted her owl’s head. “Hello, Lyrael,” she said, acknowledging her attendant. She walked towards her throne, owl still on her arm, as Lyrael followed.

“How did the convention go, my queen?” Lyrael asked the moment the queen had sat. Arianrhod told her the events that transpired, especially about the certain Endless.

“I am glad to know that you had a great time, Lady Star,” Lyrael replied. “Surely, the Lord of Dreams had one as well.”

Upon the mention of the Endless, Arianrhod’s curiosity peaked. “Is there anything you know about him?” She asked.

“Not much, my lady,” Lyrael answered. “Only from the fate of those whom he loved.”

Arianrhod decided that it was a story for another day as it was time to return to her duties. Lunara flew off her arm as she stood from the throne. Quickly, she made her way into the Chamber of Destinies where she did most of her work.

The queen can mostly be found attending to her duties in two places: the Chamber of Destinies, and the Stellar Observatory.

In the Chamber of Destinies, ornate pedestals are arranged in a circular formation around the perimeter of the chamber. The pedestals radiate outward from the center in spiraling patterns. They are also arranged in tier levels, with each level rising slightly higher than the one before it.

On top of each pedestal are the Fate Wheels, miniature versions of the much larger Silver Wheel found in the Hall of Stars. Each wheel represents the path of an individual. It is Arianrhod’s duty to ensure that they continue to spin. Otherwise, it would disrupt the Silver Wheel that holds the collective destiny of humanity as a whole.

The Stellar Observatory, on the other hand, is located at the top of the castle’s towers. In there, Arianrhod, together with the Cosmic Weavers, control the cosmic energies that govern the universe. They ensure that the movement of stars, planets, and galaxies synchronizes the rhythm of time.

However, a duty unique to the goddess, aside from the maintenance of the Fate Wheels, is the mending of rifts in the fabric of space-time. She is the one who repairs the cosmic anomalies and deals with those who intend to disturb the cosmos.

This is how the goddess had spent her life since the beginning of time, and how she will continue to do so in the entirety of her immortal life. Or so she thought.

She rarely leaves her realm; only on situations that require her presence—like the recent convention—and her intervention on mortals that negatively affects the Silver Wheel.

Before she knew it, it had been months, in mortal terms, since the convention. Specifically, the first time she met Morpheus. Often, she found her thoughts returning to him.

But as many times she thought of him, were the times she tried not to care. However, in moments like this where her presence is not needed in the chamber nor the observatory, when she is solitarily sitting on her throne, she wonders about him.

“My lady,” Lyrael called, disrupting Arianrhod’s thoughts. “Have you been feeling unwell?”

Arianrhod looked at her. Confused, she asked, “No, why?”

Lyrael sighed, a bit hesitant. “You don’t seem like yourself lately,” she started. “There are times you stare off in the distance like something’s on your mind.”

“Is there something wrong in the realm?” She asked, knowing that there is highly likely nothing outside of the Corona Borealis that would bother you. Unless there are threats but in that case, you would’ve acted to eliminate them immediately. So she settled with the conclusion that something might be going on in the realm.

“Perhaps, in the Lunar Gardens?” Lyrael continued. She remembered what the Star Fairies said—that the queen had frequented there. It was unusual because Arianrhod is a burner of the midnight oil; all she thought about was her duties. In other words, she isn’t one to spend her time on such trivialities as gardening.

For the first time, Arianrhod was at a loss for words, a loss for explanations. “Forgive me,” she said. “Perhaps I just need to…”

“But The Dreaming will always open its gates to you.”

“My lady?” Lyrael asked, urging Arianrhod to continue.

“…sleep,” the queen continued. Poor Lyrael continued to be baffled but she chose to keep it to herself. She is unsure of what’s happening except for one thing: the queen has never been in her sanctum for as far as she can remember.

In Arianrhod’s chamber, there’s an astral window enchanted to reveal different celestial phenomena. However, this time, it remained an ordinary one that gave her a view of the Lunar Gardens.

The Stellar Blooms mirrored the heavens as they looked like stars on the ground. She thought of the one she gave to Morpheus and wondered how it was doing.

She glanced from the window to her bed. Her canopy bed looked so inviting. She never slept—she didn’t need sleep. Rest was a concept she observed in others, not one she partook in herself.

But for the first time, she was curious.

And so she walked over to her bed, sitting on its edge before letting herself lie down.

Then she closed her eyes.

“My lord,” Lucienne calls to Morpheus who stares at the stained glass panes of his castle. It had shifted back to its original form just before Lucienne could see what he was looking at.

“A divine being has entered The Dreaming,” she informed.

“I am aware, Lucienne,” Morpheus said. “I shall welcome them into The Dreaming.” In the blink of an eye, he was gone.

On the bridge held up by massive stone hands, Arianrhod stands in awe. It was daylight wherever she looked. This realm resembled Earth; she hadn’t been there for a long time—the brightness almost hurt her eyes.

She closed her eyes and gently rubbed it. “To what do I owe the pleasure of your visit?” She almost jumped in surprise at the voice that came out of nowhere.

Morpheus stood behind her. As Arianrhod turned, he felt his heart skip a beat. Their eyes met, and the warm feeling inside him resurfaced.

For a moment, he could not believe it. He was just looking at the memory of her on the stained glass panes earlier, as he did every day since the moment he met her.

And now she’s here, in his realm, looking just as beautiful in daylight as she was under the light of a thousand stars.

She smiled, “I am not certain.” She didn’t want to admit that she came here on purpose. “I fell asleep. And it brought me here, to your realm.”

Morpheus looked at her with deep, knowing eyes. “Welcome to The Dreaming, Lady of the Silver Wheel,” he said with a faint smile.

Arianrhod was the first to break the eye contact. She looked around again, now seeing better after her eyes had adjusted.

“This place is beautiful,” she said.

Morpheus kept himself from telling her that The Dreaming pales in comparison to her—and now that she’s here, there is nothing else in his realm more beautiful than her.

Too captivated, Arianrhod almost forgot about the Stellar Bloom. “Oh, does it turn night here?” She asked. “The Stellar Bloom wouldn’t thrive in this condition.”

“The celestial flower is alive and well, Star,” he said. “I made sure to follow your instructions.”

Morpheus held his hand out. Sand swirled on top of it until a small pot appeared. In his hand was the Stellar Bloom, planted in a pot.

Arianrhod was delighted to see the flower. Morpheus saw the twinkle in her eyes as she looked at it.

She held her hand out in an attempt to sprinkle it with stardust. However, to her surprise, nothing came out of it. Then, she realized—she was powerless in The Dreaming.

As if reading her thoughts, Morpheus spoke, “You must come here in person to be able to use your powers.”

Morpheus sent the flower back to its place in his chamber, leaving nothing but traces of sand on his hand.

Arianrhod squinted at him. “Why should I?” She asked referring to his invitation.

Morpheus stepped forward, standing close to her once again, but this time, without the flower in between them. He looked at her eyes intently, his gaze unfaltering.

“Since our meeting at the convention, I have found my thoughts often returning to you,” Morpheus said.

He took another step closer. Morpheus’s eyes reflected a glimpse of rare vulnerability.

“I wish you to be the queen of my realm, Star,” he said. Arianrhod felt her heart flutter. “Will you allow me this?”

“Very well, Dream,” she replied. “I shall allow it.”

But before Morpheus could even smile, she stepped back. “IF you fulfill my conditions,” she smirked.

He was surprised, yet fascinated. “You challenge me, Star?” He asked, his lips forming into a smirk as well.

“Not a lot knows about me. But those who do, call me…” Arianrhod replied, leaning close. “…the goddess who challenges”—and that, she will continue to be. She wouldn’t allow herself to be fooled by any man again.

“What are your conditions, my lady?” Morpheus asked. Someday, that title will no longer be used just for formality. He will make sure—it will be used to refer to her as his woman.

Arianrhod stepped back, smiling. “First,” she said. “You need to show me the entirety of The Dreaming.”

Morpheus looked in disbelief, but he was delighted. “That’s easy,” he said. “We can even start now.”

“I know, Dream Lord,” Arianrhod agreed. “But you can’t show me the dreaming if I’m not here.” She moved to walk past Morpheus

“Which is why,” she continued, turning around when she’s past Morpheus. “Our little tour of The Dreaming would take place only when I stumble upon here.”

Morpheus didn’t know what he would feel, but the challenge added a thrill. Although, he did not understand the need to delay. The only theory he could come up with was that she might be playing with him.

“Second,” Arianrhod said. “You need to be able to find my realm.”

That piqued Morpheus’s interest. No one—not Death, and not even Destiny, who, among the Endless, is the one who could have direct connections to the goddess associated with time cycles, knew the name nor whereabouts of her realm.

“Third,” continued Arianrhod. “You have to make me fall in love with you.”

There was a moment of silence between the two. Arianrhod breaks the silence. “You can always find someone else, Dream,” she said. “Maybe I’m worth the gamble, maybe I’m not.”

“I’m just not that easy of a woman, Dream,” she continued. “I have my own realm to attend to. And I don’t want to compromise it.”

It was Morpheus’s turn to speak. “Very well,” he said. “You’ve named your conditions, and I shall give my all to fulfill them.”

Arianrhod nodded. “Well then,” she said. “Until my next visit, Lord of—“

“Before you go,” Morpheus cut her statement. His sand once again swirled on his hand, later revealing a flower.

It had pale blue petals with delicate silver veins. Its center, a cluster of tiny, luminous white stamens. The stem is a deep indigo. Its leaves are broad and velvety, dark green with a subtle silver lining.

“For you,” Morpheus said, handing it to Arianrhod. The goddess was surprised. She carefully took it in her hands, holding it by the stem.

She places it near her nose. Its fragrance, delicate and enchanting. “What flower is this?” She asked.

Morpheus smirked, “You’ll have to come again to find out.”

What Arianrhod didn’t know, was Morpheus created it the moment he returned to The Dreaming after the convention. He ought to give you something in return—something that could also thrive in a cosmic realm, like the flowers at the Nexus. He spent days perfecting this flower, he’s just glad he was able to give it to you.

“Clever,” Arianrhod chuckled. “Well then, Lord of Dreams. We shall see each other again.”

Morpheus gently took her hand and pressed it upon his lips,” I eagerly wait for your return, Lady Star.”

——————————————————————————

PART THREE

I’m a sucker for slow burn romance 🤧

If you'd like to be added to my taglist for updates on this fanfic, just comment below or send me a message!

[intplayboy]

OT7/MULTI BTS DRABBLE MASTERPOST

copyright © 2024 by kumiko

all rights reserved. these fics or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the publisher except for the use of brief quotations in a review. 

key: a - angst | f - fluff | h - humor | ac - action | s - smut

ya'aburnee sneak peek (minor a, f, h, ac) - coming soon

hybrid! bts x human detective female! reader

the boys are patiently yet eagerly waiting for you at home, knowing you had another action-packed day, and can’t wait to smother you and make sure you safely return home. But come to find out that you are injured at the front door in the arms of your older colleague, and to make matters worse, how and why you were injured.

witch's refuge (a, f, h, ac) - coming soon

royal soldiers bts ot7 x female witch! reader

in an era where the royal family denounces all magic, as one of the few remaining witches, you hide your powers. though you try to lead a normal life, only the seven accepting men make you feel truly understood. yet, what destiny awaits when you must reveal your true identity? character boards | prologue | part 1 | part 2 [finale] | alternate ending

[mrmeowski]

Ooooh can you do a my hero reader insert with hawks and a fem!reader? :0 I was thinking maybe the reader poses as a normal person but is actually working for her villain parent? and she genuinely falls in love with hawks? haha

˚✦𝐎𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐄𝐧𝐝𝐬✦˚

Synopsis: Born into a family of villains, you didn't want to end up like them—facing heroes and inflicting suffering on defenseless people but it's not like you have a choice, to begin with. When darkness falls, you aim your gun at the head of the unfortunate. Despite looking like any other ordinary person in daylight, someone had caught on and had been followed by a specific hero of the skies. You couldn't help but depose him with a burning passion the first time he showed his ugly face yet destiny had other twisted plans for the two of you.

CW: Slight blood, slight angst, troubled childhood

A/N: I haven't watched/read MHA, my knowledge is based solely on Google and other works so some information might be inaccurate. Any feedback about this work would be appreciated greatly!

Pairing/s: Takami Keigo x F.Reader

Word Count: 4.7k

On an ordinary night shrouded in darkness, you lurked in the shadows, stalking your prey with practiced ease as he ventured back to his space for a well-deserved rest. The target is a figure with authority over law enforcement, Chief Tsurgamae Kenji, who possesses a quirk that turns him into a dog with heightened senses.

His instincts alerted him to your presence, causing him to twist and turn through the labyrinthine paths, evading your pursuit. His paranoia amused you, adding an extra layer of thrill to the hunt. Unbeknownst to you, an unseen observer perched atop nearby buildings awaited the opportune moment to intervene.

When the thrill of the chase reached its end, you grew weary of your prey, relishing the fear danced in its eyes. Yet, the monotony of your sinister endeavors led you to a decision—it was time to bring an end to the unfortunate life you were about to distinguish.

Aiming your gun directly at the target's head, you whispered ominous words to yourself, poised to pull the trigger, "Nighty night, chief..." However, before you could enact your sinister plan, a sudden disturbance caught your attention.

Red-like daggers materialized dangerously close to your figure, prompting a swift evasion that spared you from a potentially fatal strike. Carmine feathers grazed past your pace, one leaving a small but painful gash on your cheek. As you wiped away the warm liquid, looking down at your blood-stained hand, a scoff left your mouth. Your gaze then shifted to your supposed target—the fleeing figure of the chief, fear evident in his eyes.

An intruder had entered the picture and you could hear the soft footsteps approaching along a nonchalant voice addressing your recent activities, "Hey there, Ms. Villain! You're been causing such a ruckus lately... not cool, y'know?" You turned to the sources of the disturbance, glaring daggers in his direction.

His ash-blond hair was tousled backward, framing a pair of golden brown triangular eyes with small black triangles below his tear ducts and the top corners of his eyes. A set of vibrant, red-feathered wings sprouted from his back, giving him an avian-like look. Clad in what resembled an aviator's uniform, he wore a black shirt with a wavy golden pattern, complemented by a tan jacket featuring slits for his wings. Fur-lined cuffs and black gloves completed the ensemble, while yellow ear-protective headphones and a rounded, yellow-tinted visor shielded his eyes.

With a determined grip on your gun, you eyed him down and kept a poker face, you hadn't encountered this man before but his appearance hinted at his identity.

"We're all just trying to live our lives without dealing with your drama..." He eyed the gun on your hand, with a coy grin, he continued, "So, how about you pack your stuff and find a new hobby? Trust me, it's not gonna end well if you keep this up," he declared, there read deathers reattaching themselves to his wings.

The tension in the night air thickened as you aimed your gun at the enigmatic man, watching for the slightest reaction behind his visor as you pointed your weapon in his direction.

"Whoa, hold on there!" He exclaimed rather forcefully, he even put his hands up in mockery. "That's quite the greeting! Mind pointing that somewhere else? We don't want anyone getting hurt now do we?" A mischievous smile played on his lips. Your expression twitched at the audacity of his response. "And I just got these feathers dry-cleaned. You wouldn't want to ruin them, would you?" He casually dusted imaginary dirt off his feathers.

Your grip tightened on the gun as frustration and anger welled up within you.

"Do you take this as a joke?!" You shouted, incredulous at his nonchalant demeanor.

"Oh, you talk! I mean haha... of course I take everyone seriously. But life's too short to be serious all the time, yeah? Let's keep it light!" He responded with a casual shrug, his words pushing your buttons and escalating the tension between you two.

A low growl emanated from your lips, a manifesting of your frustration with the man's nonchalant demeanor. You had grown weary of his games and decided it was time to bring an end to this bizarre encounter. With determination, you pulled the trigger, however, it was no surprise that he effortlessly dodged the bullets.

Taunting you with a mocking suggestion, "You'll have to try harder than that! Maybe a shooting lesson would help—I know a guy!" His dismissal only fueled your irritation as you continued to fire but he skillfully evaded each incoming bullet.

He seemed content on dodging rather than engaging in a direct fight, underestimating not just the severity of the situation but also your capabilities.

Unbeknownst to him though, you had a hidden ace up your sleeve. Anticipating his evasive maneuvers, you aimed at his right, knowing he would instinctively dodge to the left. Swiftly, you retrieved a secondary weapon, catching him off guard as a bullet found its mark in his right wing.

A yelp of pain escaped him as an explosion of feathers surrounded his form. With how he started back at you, it appears he had taken the situation a little bit seriously.

"How does it feel hero, to have your wing clipped?" You taunted, reveling in the success of your surprise attack as you concealed your secondary weapon.

The avian-like hero inspected the damage in his wings and instead of succumbing to despair, he met the situation with resilient optimism.

"That stings a bit! But hey, they say battle scars add character, right? Time to ruffle some feathers!" He proclaimed with a spirited grin, embracing the challenge that lay ahead.

You had been waiting for this very moment—the true test of skill and strength!

As a cascade of feathers began to descend upon you, you engaged in a dance of evasion and precision. Some feathers you gracefully sidestepped, while others met the edge of the blade gifted to you. The hero, undeterred by the injury to his wing, wielded two of his primary feathers as makeshift blades, showcasing as well a surprising agility.

The battlefield had become a flurry of motion, a clash of blades and feathers, as both of you moved with swift and calculated precision. There were moments when it felt like the dance of his feathers might entangle you, yet your determination pushed you to dodge and counter with finesse.

The tranquil embrace of the night shattered only to be replaced by the continuous rhythm of gunshots echoing through the air. The ongoing battle painted the darkness with flashes of gunfire, disturbing the people nearby. The confrontation seemed ceaseless, with each participant narrowly avoiding the brink of defeat before orchestrating a reversal of fortune.

He found himself caught off guard by the remarkable combat skills displayed by someone lacking the traditional advantage of a quirk.

"You think those flashy feathers are going to save you, hero?" You taunted once more, a wry chuckle escaping your lips.

Sweat traced paths down your face and the atmosphere crackled with exhaustion. The intensity of the battle had taken its toll on both of you, but the resolve of triumph remained unwavering.

"You're not bad.. hah... Most folks can't keep up with these feathers!" He complimented, attempting to acknowledge your abilities.

However, his words only fueled your growing frustration.

"You're underestimating me, birdbrain. I've undergone horrendous... training for this!" You asserted, your voice carrying a weight of solemnity and pain.

The cracks in your composure did not go unnoticed by the avian hero. There was a palpable shift in the air, a hint that beneath the surface, there might be more to your story than what meets the eye.

"Training, huh? You and I are not so different after all!" He smirked, keenly observing the change in your tone from now on.

His perception led him to wonder if there were deeper layers to your character, realizing that judgment based on surface impressions could be deceptive. You hunted individuals of higher ranks, eliminating them and concealing their bodies with an elusive master that had left him perplexed. It was as if you seamlessly melded into the shadows, a skill that made tracking you an arduous task.

"We have nothing alike!" You retorted, your voice now laced with venom.

Your words mirrored the physical skirmish, as the shadows, as the shadows concealed not only your movements but the enigmatic layers of your true identity. He met your venomous retort with a hum, his gaze piercing and inscrutable.

"If you say so..." His response was enigmatic, holding an air of subtle intrigue.

Before your eyes could argue back, a swift transformation took place in front of your eyes leaving you stunned—the remaining feathers, once scattered, swiftly regrouped, finding their place back on his wings. With a deft motion, he repositioned his two primary feathers to their rightful spots. As you aimed your gun for a final confrontation, a sudden gale erupted from his wings, a forceful gust set you reeling backward, forcing you to shield your face with your arms.

"Until we meet again, Ms. Villain~" Were his last parting words as he launched himself into the night sky, disappearing into the distance.

"What a fucking pain..." You groaned, the adrenaline of the confrontation fading, leaving behind a surge of sudden pain from all parts of your body.

The injuries inflicted during your encounter began to make their presence known—small lacerations from his blade-like feathers, wounds that you had overlooked in the head of battle. Clutching your arms, you felt the warmth of your own blood seeping through your fingers, a stark reminder of the toll exacted by the fleeting encounter with the arrogant hero. The night bore witness to your retreat, leaving you to grapple with the aftermath of the confrontation in the solitude of the darkened streets.

Upon returning home, the oppressive atmosphere welcomed you, a stark contrast to the relief one might expect from a harrowing encounter. Your father, unmoved by the visible toll the confrontation had taken on you, greeted you with a dispassionate inquiry.

"Had you killed the dog?" His indifference to your wounds struck a chord within you and frustration welled as you clenched your fist.

Did he not see, or worse, care about your condition?

Defeated, you mustered a weak response, "No, father. I-I was ambushed by a hero and he got away." Shame and disappointment rendered you unable to meet his gaze, to face the failure that stained your endeavors.

Rising from his seat, your feather approached, casting a looming shadow that intensified the fear gnawing at your inside. His hand seized your face with a vise-like grip, forcing you to meet his gaze. The anger etched across his face revealed a disappointment that cut deeper than any wounds.

"We didn't train you to be a failure, [Name]," he spat, his words dripping with disdain as if addressing a stranger rather than his own flesh and blood. The grip on your jaw loosened as he spoke again, "You disappoint me, [Name]. I expect a much better performance by tomorrow." With those cold words, he abandoned you in the desolate silence of the living room.

It was the last draw for the persona you had been building up your entire life, as everything collapsed before you. Holding back tears, you retreated to your room. The façade of strength crumbled, and the weight of a life forced upon you became unbearable. In the quiet solitude, you grappled with the harsh reality that you never chose—a life of villainy, ruthless training, and a father who saw only failure in his own daughter.

In the safety of your room, the weight of today's events pressed upon you, and crying became inevitable. Alone in the quiet room, you succumbed to the overwhelming sorrow that enveloped you. As your tears feel like silent rain, each droplet carries a weight of frustration.

The melancholy solitude was abruptly interrupted by a soft tapping on your window. Startled, you raised your eyes, and there, perched on the window sill, was a familiar figure. A surge of frustration and anger coursed through you—you hadn't been careful enough, and he had followed you back.

Gritting your teeth, you regarded him with a mixture of annoyance and weariness. Despite the desire to close the binds, you found yourself drawn to the window.

Your body moved almost involuntarily, and against your conscious will, you opened the window to control the intruder, "What do you want..?" Your voice was tinged with cracked vulnerability.

Silence was in the air as he nonchalantly hopped into your room, avoiding your question altogether. The resentful glare you cast upon him did nothing to deter his approach.

"S-Stay back!" You stammered, a tremor in your voice betraying fear.

"Or what, you'll shoot me?~" He chuckled, his words laced with dismissive amusement. You grimaced for your beloved weapon wasn't in your person and though you excelled in physical combat, you are no fool. Facing in a hand-to-hand combat with him would only lead to your downfall. "I didn't expect to find someone like you in tears..." Advancing toward you, he offered a gentle smile. "Hey... tell me, what's going on?" Each step he took prompted you to retreat.

"Leave me be! I don't want your pity, hero..." You hissed, voice laced with defiance as he closed in on your shaking frame.

"I'm not here to fight, I just want to understand," he asserted, his words carrying a sincerity that clashed with the prevailing tension in the room, "to understand you." Despite his seemingly genuine plea, you struggled to believe his words.

Your eyes had gone red and puffy from all the tears you shed. Shaking your head in disbelief, you dismissed his claim, unwilling to accept the possibility of genuine understanding from someone on the side of heroes.

"You heroes don't care about people like me—I'm just a criminal to you. So stop pretending you want any of it!" The bitterness echoed through the room.

Yet, your conviction against him and all heroes remained ignored by the man, imploring, "Perhaps if you fill me in, then I won't be like them." All his words carried a genuine curiosity.

Skepticism painted your perception, convincing you that it must be an act, a ploy to exploit vulnerability. However, the weight of your internal struggle proved too much to bear and your knees gave in, collapsing to the cold wooden floor. Tears, seemingly endless, streamed down your face as you buried it in your hands.

"I... I-I didn't want any of this!" You screamed, the anguish in your voice living through the air. "I never wanted any of it..." You looked up at him, your body trembling with the weight of your pain.

He knelt down to meet your gaze, his eyes shifting between your tear-streaked face and the untreated wounds that marred your body.

"I'm just a tool of them..." You uttered in a hushed tone, the confession heavy with the burden of a painful truth. "They never saw me as their daughter... only someone to do their dirty deeds." The words hung in the air, resonating with the silent acknowledgment of a fractured identity.

Quirkless and subjected to a life of cruelty, you were molded into a weapon by the very same people who should've provided you with love and care. What more could they have done to you if you possessed such abilities? His decision to follow you home, go easy on you in your earlier confrontation, and uncover the mystery shrouded in the shadows, had been justified.

As you sat defenselessly on the ground, the man enveloped you in the embrace of his wings and arms, a tight yet oddly comforting hold that you lacked the energy to resist. You surrendered to the almost crushing, warm hug, your tears soaking his clothes but he seemed not to care. It became evident that beneath the mask of a villain, you were, at your core, a broken individual.

His fingers gently reached out, tangling with your hair in a tender gesture, offering a moment of peace in the midst of the emotional storm. The world narrowed down to the cacoon of that embrace a fragile sanctuary where vulnerability could be acknowledged without judgment.

However, the fragile moment was abruptly shattered by a knock, followed by the concerned voice of a maid, someone you had grown close to during your time in this broken home.

"Ms. [Last Name? I heard a scream and wanted to check up on you..." She expressed from beyond the door. "Are you alright, dear?"

"That's my cue then," the man hummed, releasing you from the embrace as he rose to his feet. His gaze lingered on you with a soft, genuine smile. As he made his way to the window, he glanced back, "I hope to get to know you more... Ms. [Last Name]~" As you watched the winged man vanish into the night, you gathered yourself and stumble your way to the door.

Responding to the concerned maid, Alice, "Yes, I'm alright, Alice... Thank you for checking up on me," you replied with a sigh.

In a world where your biological mother was too preoccupied with chaos, the mad served as a comforting presence almost like your real mother. You wished she was your mother.

"Are you sure, Ms. [Last Name]?" It seemed your tone had betrayed you as she caught the lingering pain in your voice, "May I come in at least?" After a moment's hesitation, you relented, unlocking the door to allow her entry. Shock crossed her face as her eyes fell upon your wounds, some still bleeding. "Oh dear, look at you! And you left the window open, you might catch a cold, young woman!" Her worry was palpable, and you couldn't help but crack a soft smile.

"Sorry... I simply want to look at the stars. They're quite fascinating..." You lied, shielding the truth about the unexpected visitor in your room earlier, a hero no less.

You eyed her as she closed the window.

"Ms. [Last name], please sit for a moment; I'll tend to your wounds." Before you could protest, she had already left the room to get the essential things for your wounds.

Left alone with your thoughts, you couldn't shake about the winged man and his true intentions—his name also remained a mystery to you.

The next day arrived, and thanks to Alice's care, your wounds were now bandaged. With a warm coffee in your hand, you sat alone in a nearby café, the comforting aroma enveloping you as you attempted to find respite from the storm of thoughts that raged within.

The tranquility was abruptly shattered by the chime of the bell, signaling the entrance of an unwelcome presence. Although you didn't bother to look up, you sensed someone approaching you and much to your dismay, occupying the vacant chair across from you.

"What is it that you want this time..?" You demanded, locking eyes with the audacious interloper.

His response was a simple smile, brushing off the hostility you directed at him.

"I don't think I introduced myself yesterday, I'm Takami Keigo, by the way," he offered, extending his hand.

Gone were the safety of his black gloves, and he appeared in ordinary clothing, devoid of the heroic attire he donned the night before. A slight hesitation lingered in the air before reluctantly accepting the handshake.

"[Full Name]..." You mumbled, your voice revealing a reluctance to divulge more information. "So, if I may ask again, what is your business here... birdbrain?"

"...Heroes need a break too, y'know?" He responded, leaning in and releasing your hand before resting his on it. "I'm just a regular guy looking for some good company," he added.

"Fair enough... but I still got my eye on you," you declared, taking a sip of your coffee.

"You truly don't trust me, do you?" He sighed rather dramatically, his expression reflecting a mix of amusement and resignation. "What can I do to gain your trust?" He inquired, his eyes fixing on you with an expectant glint.

"Nothing," you answered coldly, your gaze unwavering.

He pouted playfully in response to your lack of enthusiasm, undeterred in his attempts to keep the conversation alive.

"Well..." He kept being persistent, "let's start with something simple," he suggested, tapping his cheek as if pondering a question. "Like what do you do when you're not causing mayhem? Any hobbies?"

"Hobbies..?" You repeated, skepticism lacing your tone.

The notion that this hero wanted to get to you felt inconceivable, leaving you perplexed about how such information could benefit him. Questions lingered in your mind, like why he hadn't yet reported you to the authorities.

"Everyone's got something they enjoy, right?" He mused, his curiosity undeterred.

Your gaze shifted away from him, focusing on something else as you contemplated a response.

"I used to paint..." You began, "When I still have the time," you admitted, a small fleeting smile gracing your face as memories of a simple, more innocent time flashed before your eyes.

The warmth of the nostalgia was short-lived, replaced by a frown as the hero's voice but through your reverie.

"Painting, huh? That's pretty neat, ever think about picking up the brush again?" He inquired, a genuine interest in his tone that caught you off guard.

"I don't know. Maybe someday I will..." The idea of painting again had never crossed your mind until he mentioned it, yet a longing for your beloved brush began to surface.

"Well, if you ever decide to, let me know. I might not have artistic skills but I can be a good art critic!" He proposed a hint of camaraderie that caught you slightly off guard.

"Why... are you being so nice to me?" Your curiosity about his true motive lingered beneath the surface, demanding an answer.

"Why not? Being nice costs nothing." He shrugged, a sly smirk playing on his lips. "Besides, who knows? We might end up being friends or more if you prefer~ Stranger things have happened!" His slightly flirtatious tone grated on your nerves, scrunching your face in disgust.

"I'm leaving..." Standing abruptly, you grabbed your unfinished coffee, eager to escape the man's company.

"Hey! Where are you gooooing??" He whined, following beside you as you exited the establishment.

"Somewhere far from you," you grumbled, the promising start of a lovely day tainted by this unexpected intrusion.

"Heh, that would be a hard place to find! If there's even one~" His mischievous grin widened, aggravating your frustration.

"Are you simply here to bother me?" You accused, to which he responded by pinching your cheeks teasingly. "Hey—"

You were quickly cut off by his remark, "You do look cute when you're grumpy~ But no," he answered, releasing your cheek as you rubbed it right after, a faint ache lingering. "Can't I get to know you better? I'm interested in people's stories and yours seems intriguing!" He admitted, looking at you with a hint of earnestness.

"So you essentially cross people's boundaries out of personal curiosity?" Your remark made him pause in his tracks, his eyes widening.

"Whoa, whoa, whoa, h-hold on! That's not what I meant at all! You've mistaken me," his chuckle carried a nervous undertone as he scratched the back of his neck. Suspicion etched across your features, you raised a skeptical brow. "No hidden agendas, no hero business. Just two people having a conversation. Maybe I'm old-fashioned, but I believe in the power of a good talk!" He reassured, attempting to dispel the doubts that lingered in the air.

You maintained your silence, casting a scrutinizing gaze at him before, without warning, you picked up your pace, leaving him be.

"Heeeeey!!"

The intrusion persisted for days, a relentless invasion of your life by the enigmatic avian hero, who you learned also goes as 'Hawks' but honestly, you rather refer to him as birdbrain. Even during your attempts at carrying out your grim assignments, he still would weave himself into the fabric of your existance.

His mere presence, devoid of confrontation, proved to be a disruptive force, effectively thwarting your every move. As the days unfolded, his interference mounted, exacerbating the challenges you faced, both in your dual life as a villain and under the oppressive gaze of your father's dissatisfaction.

Your once-covert operations became a chaotic dance, a tangled web of failed attempts and disrupted plans. Your father's wrath intensified with each perceived failure, each word piercing through your heart. You couldn't help but blame it all upon the man, the hero with an uncanny to infiltrate your life.

At times, he would tap persistently on your window until you either allowed him entry or pointed a gun at his face—a futile attempt to deter his meddling. Reluctantly, you found yourself letting him inside, providing you with sanctuary within the confines of your personal space.

Unexpectedly, as more days passed, you found yourself gradually opening up to the man. The guarded walls around your past, your struggles, and the torment inflicted by your family began to crumble apart. From the earliest memories of your childhood, where the weight of your parents' expectations pressed upon you, to the relentless pressure that molded you into the person you had become.

These people would cast you before powerful villains, using you as a pawn in their quest for world dominance. You were a prisoner in a family that sought to control everything even if it meant sacrificing their own daughter.

In recounting your story, you expected his indifference and disinterested responses. However, to your surprise, he listened intently, not letting any detail slip off. His comforting presence became solace in the storm of your tangled existence. The view of his actions being a mere act began to fade, replaced by the genuine concern and understanding he displayed.

Even if it so happened that he'll report you, it provided a sense of relief that you were able to share your side of the story, to vocalize the pain and suffering buried deep within. Alice had been a good friend and motherly figure, but there was something different about him.

The world is not simply shades of black and white. Each villain, including yourself, has a tale of experiences and pain that shaped them not who they are now.

Another unexpected turn is that a peculiar warmth began to swirl within you whenever he was near. His playful banter, occasionally laced with flirtatious undertones, wove through the confines of your heart, creating emotions you hadn't anticipated.

Now, you found yourself eagerly expecting his nightly presence in your room, a silent companion who brought comfort to the shadows that enveloped your life. Missions that should have been accomplished instead were ignored by stolen moments in the city with him. Together, you navigated through the urban labyrinth, experiencing the vibrant pulse of the city's nocturnal life.

In these hours he would fly you up into the moonlit skies, offering a view of the world from a perspective you had never imagined. The wind carries whispers of freedom and the soft glow of the city lights painted a canvas of serenity, it was a stark contrast to the chaos and darkness that defined your life.

From the very first confrontation, he had found more than just a typical villain in you. As he initially stalked you through the city's buildings, however, the more he observed, the more he realized he was mistaken.  Beneath the veil of a villain, he discovered a profound yearning for a normal life—a desire to break free from the chains imposed by what you call your family.

In silence, he vowed to become the catalyst for the change you sought, to be the friend you longed for, and to help you reclaim a sense of normalcy. He recognized the gray areas that defined the lives of those deemed villains.

He chose to keep his discovery of you a secret, he will shield you from the prying eyes of his allies, determined to handle the situation on his own terms and ensure your story remained untold to anyone who might exploit it.

As the moon cast its silvery glow upon the cityscape, you found yourself perched on a rooftop alongside Keigo. The night held a peaceful ambience and his presence brought a sense of companionship that you had longed for.

As he pulled you closer with a gentle sweep of his wings, he whispered into your ear, "It was a pleasure meeting you, [Name]... I hope this friendship develops into something more~"

Request» Masterlist»

*•.𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐄𝐍𝐃.•*

[jovialmoonprincess]

Death By a Thousand Cuts - Part II

First Part. / The Winter Ball / Champagne Problems / Frost and Thorns / The Storm Within / In Silence, We Crumble / Loving him was Red / Paired Again / During the Storm / Death By a Thousand Cuts - Part I / Death By a Thousand Cuts - Part II

Coriolanus Snow x Fem!reader

Summary: Clemensia's plan

Warning(s): None, enemy to lovers, back in time, destiny, Snow being in love, Snow being Snow, possible grammar and spelling mistakes

The tension intensifies in the principal's office as the students anxiously await the unfolding events. Dr. Gaul's gaze is icy, emanating authority and suspicion, while Clemensia maintains an angelic posture.

"Well, let's get to it, the main suspects are Sejanus and Y/N," begins the principal with a serious voice. "We understand that Coriolanus has an alibi in the library and Clemensia has an alibi which is Dr. Gaul. They were together at the time of the graffiti. Now, you two…" he points to Sejanus and Y/N, a questioning look over his glasses. "Have complicated histories, Y/N not so much but Sejanus… We've already talked about this pro-district behavior, haven't we?" The boy was calm, it was usual for him to get into trouble and his parents got him out in the blink of an eye. He wasn't afraid of many things. This behavior made him look even more suspicious.

"We were together, Y/N and I, in the gym during the incident," Coriolanus was confused about why the two would skip class together. He had a strange feeling about the situation. "We both received identical notes, supposedly from each other, but neither of us wrote them. Someone is trying to frame us!"

"Okay, so someone here has a false alibi. Because someone did that. And everyone here seems like they weren't there. Would Dr. Gaul or the librarian lie to me? Or are you students lying?" The principal carried a comical tone. "I think the second option is the most plausible, right? Because in all these decades of work here at this school, this has never happened." Y/N feels a knot forming in her throat, the words of accusation echoing in her mind like an echo of despair. Sejanus remains by her side, an anchor of support amid the storm of uncertainties that unfolds around them.

Coriolanus knew he was in the library and also knew that Dr. Gaul and Clemensia would not graffiti the lockers with such a phrase; they were, above all, supporters of the games. His serious expression betrayed the concern consuming him inside. His eyes met Y/N's, a tumultuous mix of emotions reflecting in the depths of her blue irises. He wondered if Clemensia would set up something like this against Y/N to harm her but found no reason for it to happen. And also, Dr. Gaul tried to kill her, the two being accomplices was out of the question. Y/N was anxious, her fingers moving unconsciously. She knew she was innocent but didn't like situations like this.

"Please, sir, I have nothing to do with this! I would never do something like that!" The principal casts a skeptical look at her, his expression hard and unyielding.

"Right, everything happened very quickly. About 30 minutes at most, the culprit must still have something that compromises him with him. Dr. Gaul, can you help me search their bags?"

The doctor nodded quietly. A few minutes passed and Clemensia said she was feeling ill. Everyone looked at her and noticed that she did not look well at all. Sejanus helped her sit down and the principal offered her a glass of water.

"I'm not used to situations like this, I'm sorry."

With the mood calmed, the search resumed. Everyone in the room was tense until they heard a jingle of metal that Dr. Gaul took from Y/N's bag. It was a bunch of keys, with a keychain bearing the school's crest.

"It's the bunch with the key to the teachers' room," the principal said, surprised.

"This is absurd! Y/N would have no reason to do something like this!" Sejanus exclaims in defense of the girl. Coriolanus watches the scene with a mix of incredulity and confusion, his mind struggling to reconcile the image of Y/N he knew with the accusations hanging over her.

"Principal Highbottom, I swear I'm innocent! You have to believe me!" Y/N was about to faint, it was as if the ground opened up beneath her feet. "I didn't write any note and I didn't even know about the existence of that key, I'm sure it was a setup!" The revelation of the key is like a devastating blow to Y/N, her heart sinking in despair as she realizes the gravity of the situation she finds herself in. Tears threaten to flood her eyes, but she swallows them, determined to face injustice with dignity. Sejanus remains steadfast by Y/N's side, his comforting presence a source of strength amid the storm that envelops them. Principal Highbottom frowns, considering the students' words seriously.

"A trap, you say? And how can we be sure of that?"

"And I never had that key in my possession. Someone put it in my bag to make me look guilty!"

The tension in the room increases as the students' words echo through the space, challenging the accusations that hang over them. Coriolanus was no longer in the room when the principal spoke about what he would do about the matter:

"After careful analysis of the facts presented, it is concluded that the evidence points to your involvement, Sejanus and Y/N, in the graffiti of the teachers' lockers. Although I understand that you may disagree with this assessment, it is my duty as director to apply appropriate disciplinary measures."

He emphasizes his decision firmly, standing firm in his conviction, despite the possibility of error. The students listen to the principal's words with a sense of helplessness and injustice, aware that they are being punished for something they did not do. The feeling of powerlessness is overwhelming, but they silently accept the consequences, resigned to the authority of the principal.

"Therefore, as a disciplinary measure, you will be required to perform 50 hours of community service each, in addition to bearing the full costs of repairing the damage caused by the acts of vandalism. These measures aim not only to punish but also to encourage reflection on the consequences of your actions and promote personal growth."

The principal's words echo in the room, leaving a weight on the shoulders of Sejanus and Y/N. They feel wronged and frustrated, but know they must face the imposed consequences, even if they do not agree with them.

The silence that followed was deafening, each gaze seeking answers amid the growing chaos.

-----------

Taglist: @shari-berri @h-l-vlovesvintage @tea-bobba @daenerysqueenofhearts @commanderfreethatdust @glxzillx @write-from-the-heart @ireallydontcareanymorebrooo @junipercloud03 @larissareadings @qardasngan

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[jgoddesstarot]

Pick-A-Pile: Personality Deep Dive: What Are The Defining Traits of Your Future Spouse's Character?

👑Check out my masterlist to see all of my pick-a-card readings😊

✨ Visit my shops at Ko-fi.com or J.Goddess Tarot✨

🔮Disclaimer: This reading is for entertainment purposes only. Tarot readings are based upon my intuitive interpretation of the cards and about possibilities based on your current energy. Energy is forever changing and nothing is set in stone. Always remember, you have your own free will to make whatever decision you feel is best.

🔮How I read: I use a mix of tarot cards, oracle cards, along with my intuitive abilities of claircognizance, clairaudience, and clairsentience.

🔮How this works: Close your eyes and take deep breaths, pick the pile you are most drawn to. If you aren’t drawn to any pile then that’s okay, these messages aren’t for you. Keep reading

Pile 1

Tarot Cards: 7 of Pentacles, The Devil (in reverse), 5 of Cups (in reverse), Death, The Sun

Oracle Card: Clear Quartz: Get Crystal Clear

Hi, my dearest Pile 1's! Embark with me on a tantalizing journey as we unravel the mysteries of your future love's essence.

Imagine, if you will, a soul, steadfast and patient as the timeless mountains. This partner won't be swayed by fleeting passions. Instead, they cultivate a love as deep-rooted and enduring as ancient trees. Their patience, an emblem of their devotion, promises to wrap your union in the kind of love stories are written about.

But here's where the plot thickens: your love has danced with their shadows. Battling inner demons, they've emerged not only unscathed but profoundly transformed. These trials have only refined them, sculpting a lover who's grown by confronting their fears, forever evolving in the dance of life's rhythms.

With a heart that's weathered storms, they've mastered the art of turning pain into power. Past sorrows don't weigh them down; instead, they’re fueled by hope, gazing ever forward. And oh, the brilliance they exude! Like the radiant sun breaking through a morning mist, their optimism is infectious, illuminating even the darkest corners with their zest for life.

Now, a whisper from the cosmos, embodied in the essence of Clear Quartz, reveals their crystalline clarity. They see through life's murky waters with an unclouded vision, and their unwavering honesty promises to be the bedrock of your shared journey.

Wrapping up our tale, enchanting Pile 1's, the universe has scripted for you a love story with a partner who’s resilient, optimistic, and pure of heart. This beacon of strength and sunshine is destined to light up your world, building a bond founded on clarity and trust. So, as you dance through the twists of fate, remember, a love as luminous as this awaits its cue."

Pile 2

Tarot Cards: King of Wands, 2 of Wands (in reverse), 2 of Pentacles (in reverse), 7 of Swords, 9 of Swords

Oracle Card: Turquoise: Prioritize Your Health

Ahoy, my captivating Pile 2's! Let's set sail on this intriguing voyage, navigating the depths of your future love's soul.

Envision, if you will, a figure stepping forth with an aura of undeniable magnetism. This partner, a maelstrom of fervor and vision, doesn't merely dream. They ignite the world around them, turning aspirations into reality. Their charisma, a force unto itself, promises to enthrall and captivate, making hearts race and spirits soar.

But in the shadows of this burning flame, there have been times when the light dimmed. The weight of setbacks, perhaps lost battles with destiny, momentarily caused them to falter, questioning the path they had chosen. Yet, these trials didn't break them; instead, they emerged, their resilience shining even brighter.

Amidst life's juggling act, they might occasionally teeter, struggling to find equilibrium amidst a whirlwind of responsibilities. But it's this dance on life's tightrope that crafts them into an empathetic and tender-hearted soulmate.

Diving deeper, past scars reveal tales of deception they might have endured, crafting barriers of caution around their heart. Encounters with treachery have sharpened their discernment, fortifying them with a wisdom that promises to shield your bond with care.

A whisper from the cosmos, crystallized in the essence of turquoise, sings praises of their commitment to well-being. Body and soul, mind and spirit, they treasure holistic health, inspiring you to bask in the glow of well-being too.

To sum up our voyage, enchanting Pile 2's, destiny has charted a course with a lover whose passion burns bright, whose trials have forged a resilient spirit, and whose commitment to wellness promises to nourish both heart and soul. As you traverse your own paths, treasure this vision, for it heralds a union as profound as it is passionate.

Pile 3

Tarot Cards: Judgement, The World, The Hierophant, 6 of Pentacles, 10 of Wands

Oracle Card: Sunstone: Take Pleasure In The Things You Do

Ah, my entrancing Pile 3's! Prepare to voyage through the tantalizing maze of your future love's psyche.

Imagine encountering a soul whose essence embodies rebirth and awakening. This partner, forever transformed by life's kaleidoscope, embraces change with fervor, always evolving and gleaning wisdom from every chapter. Together, you're destined to journey through realms of discovery and enlightenment.

Yet, there's more. This lover brings with them tales of countless horizons crossed, dreams manifested, and passions realized. A connoisseur of life's experiences, their spirit is imbued with achievements, and they dance through life with a purpose that's as infectious as it is profound.

Amidst this whirlwind of adventure, there's a grounding force—a beacon of tradition, moral fortitude, and unwavering standards. In their embrace, you'll find solace, for their quest for truth and wisdom promises a haven of shared values and deeper connections.

Envision a heart, generously pulsating with love and balance, an embodiment of altruism and equitability. Whether in wealth, affection, or time, they believe in the harmony of giving and receiving. This soul, blessed with both prosperity and the innate desire to uplift others, promises to be your anchor, ensuring both of you thrive.

And as the sun breaks through the clouds, revealing the glistening Sunstone, know this: your future love basks in life's simple pleasures, radiating positivity that's nothing short of magnetic.

To tie our tale together, mesmerizing Pile 3's, Destiny has penned a love saga with a lover both transformative and stable, brimming with purpose yet generous of heart, driven yet delightfully joyous. As this narrative unfolds, anticipate a dance of souls—twirling, growing, and shining under the benevolent gaze of the Sunstone.

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[anartisticalniche]

Pirate AU (A Corsair Freebooter) Masterpost

(Name for the AU credit goes to @lizaluvsthis)

SYNOPSIS

Mario, a famous actor in the theater image of the Mushroom Kingdom and "bodyguard" to its ruler, seemingly disappears from the land overnight.

SMG4, a screenplay writer for a theater and his friend, is asked by Princess Peach to go search for him alongside his brother Luigi, and to bring him back to her.

They find out that he has apparently been taken by pirates roaming the port, and they depart for his search in the seas on the Skybreaker vessel, guided by Captain Tari and her righthand Saiko Bichitaru.

During their voyage they encounter one of the most notorious crew of pirates that roams the waters of this sea: Captain SMG3 and his followers, on board of the Black Bomb vessel.

Forced to join their crew, a great adventure and destiny awaits them, between curses, magical beings, sea monsters and creatures, and a war between land and sea inhabitants.

QUICK ANNOUNCEMENT REGARDING THE PLOTLINE AND UPDATES

FIC/ART POLL

LINK TO THE AO3 FIC

DOODLES/COMICS/ART DESIGN ETC

-Introductive post to the AU

-Doodles 1

-Brewing Romance XOVER!

-Luigi Doll

-Saiko/Tari/Peach designs

-Coatless Three

-Four and Luigi Bi talk

-Assorted SMG34 doodles

-Inkopolis and SMG4 studies

-Dancing with your captain

-Four to the rescue!

-PDA couple SMG34

-Four in a Victorian dress

-Assorted crew doodles

MAIN STORYLINE

-SMG4 meets the Mario Bros

-Four being an ass

-Fic: Prologue

FANART/FIC BY OTHERS

-First encounter (SMG34) by @lizaluvsthis

-Flirting with a blade to the neck by @lizaluvsthis

-KAR-KEN?! by @anonymousfudanshi

-Fighting side by side by @k1ra0nloose

-Pirates designs by @chaoticlad

-Tari design by @anonymousfudanshi

-Where do you think youre going mate by @merp0515

-Merchant Karen design by @chaoticlad

-Xover of aus meeting Normal Four by @lizaluvsthis

-Bi awakening SMG4 by @hamlos

-Smg3's ship by @marasiatheferret

-Interpretation 2.0 by @marasiatheferret

-Switch + Pirate by @hamlos

-SMG34 Pirate au + other aus doodles by @lizaluvsthis

-Bday gift for me :3-SMG34 suspenseful moment by @lizaluvsthis

ASKS

-Various trivia (Crew and Kidnapping of Mario)

-Story or fic?

-Folklore and such

-Do they speak pirate?

-Name of AU

-Mario Appearances

-Nintendo Mario and Pirate AU

-Main Timeline

-Where you can find the AU

-Romantic ships in AU and age info for some of the characters

-Does Meggy turn human?

-Oh hellos and pirate au

-Pirate outfits for Axol and Boopkins?

-Who wears eyepatches

-Four hurt?

[theresattrpgforthat]

Ok. This is a bizarre request and I apologize in advance, but it is 100% serious. Are there any ttrpgs that either take inspiration from King of the Hill, or that you would think run adjacent to the sort of themes/settings present in KOTH? (Think like semi-modern/late 90s, rural/texan setting, slice-of-life, etc?)

(Context: Me and a friend have been entertaining the idea of a KOTH podcast as something to do for fun, and I think it would be fun to do a live-play ttrpg interlude at some point, but I'm struggling to come up with something, and too tired to make my own ruleset haha.)

THEME: Rural Slice-of-Life.

Four games about everyday life or suburbia coming right up!

Dads and Decks, by CABBAGEHEAD.

Dads & Decks is a quick and easy-to-play roleplaying game about Dads and their Decks.

YOU ARE A GROUP OF DADS GETTING READY FOR THE ULTIMATE BARBECUE. But suddenly, a MUNDANE DECK-RELATED PROBLEM has occurred. Using your DADS and DECKS, you must solve this problem together or your WEEKEND will be ruined.

Solve the mystery of the creaky floorboard or journey through the dangerous lands of Home Depot to retrieve the Holy Grill. Play together, be the Dad you want to see in the world and have fun!

This is a quick, fun, Lasers and Feelings hack that I feel could really replicate the banter that goes on between Hank Hill and his buddies throughout King of the Hill. If you want to replace the Deck-related problem with a problem that rings more true to King of the Hill, it won’t take much to make a switch!

Every TV Show Ever, by rossum.

Don't touch that dial and remember to set the DVR!

This is meant to be a quick bare-bones way to construct any kind of tv show, from a historical drama, to a kids cartoon. Each character will take a different role, such as Matriarch, Patriarch, Craftsman or Clown. You spend some time building the world and then drop a problem into the player’s laps. You navigate a series of scenes represented via index cards, and use d6’s to determine how your characters do. There’s nothing fancy here, but if you want to have a basic rule set that you can expand upon, this might work out.

Kids on Bikes, by Hunters Entertainment.

Choose your OWN destiny in this storytelling rules-light tabletop role-playing game where adventure is a bike ride away. Kids on Bikes is a Collaborative World Building RPG set in small towns with big mysteries.

Kids on Bikes may look like an ill fit at first, but the game actually has mechanics for building adults! Additionally, there is a scenario in Strange Adventures: Volume One that posits you as Dads, a twist of the original premise. This module was originally called Dads on Mowers, but I think it’s currently called Garuda Lake. This is a game that’s designed to present you with rumours that turn into mysteries, and is especially designed for stories in which the paranormal and supernatural bleed into everyday life.

The Carter County PTA, by Minor Arcana Games.

Join the obsessive parents and desperate teachers of the PTA as each stands upon a hill they're willing to die on. Tonight is the long-awaited PTA meeting and everyone will vote on whatever passion project or much-needed reform you've added to the agenda. Along the way, you'll uncover the high-stakes backstory of each Agenda Item, revealing the personal politics, wacky hijinks and sordid stories that lurk behind the PTA's prim and polished exterior.

A diceless, GM-less game, this is a game for fans of Peggy Hill specifically. All of you have big plans for the local school and you will trample anyone who gets in the way of it. You’ll uncover personal politics and wacky backstories through a series of flashbacks, all the while pressuring the other parents and teachers to vote for your pet policy. Great for small-town drama and petty rivalries!

[cooking-with-hailstones]

Forever Bound to the Soul of the Hero

Fi's retelling of the Breath of the Wild Memories

(Rated T: Canon typical violence)

For @linksthoughtbrambles

Awakening

I have been asleep for a very long time.

The woods where I was laid to rest have flourished since their destruction in the last war. The spirits of the forest are chittering with nervous anticipation as I spark back to wakefulness. The Great Deku Tree rumbles his warm welcome, even though my awakening signals a portent of doom.

I feel the evil gathering in the land. Even in my sleep, I have sensed the aura of dark energy seeping into the earth, the trees, the wind, the shifting of stone on stone.

It is hard to tell how long it has been between cycles. Sometimes millennia will pass, sometimes only a hundred years.  But every time the evil comes, someone will be chosen to fight back.

I can feel him out there. He sees me in dreaming, and he knows a great destiny awaits him.

It will soon be time. I shall be raised skyward once more.

Ceremony of Innocence:

“ Hero of Hyrule, chosen by the sword that seals the darkness… You have shown unflinching bravery and skill in the face of darkness and adversity. And have proven yourself worthy of the blessings of the Goddess Hylia. Whether skyward bound, adrift in time, or steeped in the glowing embers of twilight… The sacred blade is forever bound to the soul of the Hero. We pray for your protection…and we hope that-- that the two of you will grow stronger together, as one…”

I am afraid.

Much has been lost in the generations since the last champion of the Goddess bore me across his shoulders. I can see remnants of the technology, lingering vestiges that have not decayed over the millennia. But so much knowledge is gone. 

There is no mystery here as to why this spirit maiden is unable to awaken her powers. The Sheikah elders from whom she must receive guidance and instruction in every generation have lost their influence over the royal family. They are only now, through their adept understanding of ancient technologies, able to regain some of their former status. But the king and these so-called priests of Hylia take no account of the Sheikah’s wisdom. Instead, they have her bathing in the sacred springs, without any of the other rites of purification. They have her speaking prayers that carry no meaning and no power. And this blessing she speaks over Link, over my new master… 

This cannot be all there is. There is so much more to do. The hero’s soul has not been tempered, not been tested. While the sacred realm has long been sealed, the Sheikah of generations passed have devised many trials to strengthen our bond. But they are dormant, so it seems that this, too, is forgotten. 

I have been reduced to some mere symbol, a figurehead in this war. 

I am very afraid.

Listening 

“From here, we’ll make our way to Goron City. Then we’ll need some adjustments on that Divine Beast so Daruk can manage it as easily as possible. He’s figured out how to get it to move! However, it’s apparent that we still have much more to learn. But to think, that Divine Beast was actually built by people… That means we should be able to understand how it works and use it to our advantage. 

These Divine Beasts…so much we don’t know… But if we want to turn back the Calamity Ganon, they’re our best hope.”

My master always listens keenly to the spirit maiden Zelda, even though he lacks sufficient technical understanding to truly follow her excited monologues. She has much of Hylia’s wisdom and ingenuity. She is passionate and dedicated to her craft. In some ways, she is the most like Hylia of any of the spirit maidens I have ever encountered. I estimate that, given proper training and access to the correct tools, this spirit maiden would have a 78% likelihood of being able to forge an entity similar to myself. 

The lack of technical comprehension in this era continues to trouble me greatly. The slate the spirit maiden is holding is an invaluable tool, designed by the Sheikah to interface with my technology and assist in the transmission of information, transportation, and a myriad of other utilities that they cannot even fathom. All of these have been designed by the Sheikah to aid the fight against Ganon, and it is only being used at a fraction of its capacities. 

“Tell me the truth… How proficient are you right now, wielding that sword on your back? Legend says that an ancient voice resonates inside it. Can you hear it yet…hero?”

My master stops in his tracks. He cannot, I think forlornly to myself. I can see his thoughts, I am coming to know him little by little, but still, he cannot hear my voice. No matter how much I scream, my master only perceives me as an echo in his subconscious. 

Being the hero is not just a matter of drawing the sword – he isn’t tested. He has not passed through the goddess’ trials and forged the bond with the master sword through the goddess’ flame. His spirit may very well shatter when he confronts the agent of Demise. 

He is angry and sad and cannot tell her. He tries to listen for the sword but no one has ever taught him how, and I am too weak to reach him. 

And even now, I can feel the stirring in his heart. Every reincarnation of the Goddess draws the soul of the hero to her side. Whether friends or lovers, they cannot bear to hold hatred between them. I can feel the way his heart quickens when he has to grab hold of her. I know the thoughts he does not allow himself to think. 

He says nothing. She turns away in a huff, thinking this means he has nothing to say.

Devotion and Resentment 

My master has awoken, suddenly aware of Zelda’s absence from Tabantha stable. This is hardly the first time she has tried to evade him, but over the last few months he has become far more adept at finding her. 

There is a 75% probability that he has deducted that I am the reason he is able to trace where she has escaped, no matter how clever her trickery. He feels it not like the dowsing I used to perform, but rather as an itch behind his eyes. A compulsion that pulls him forward, towards her, demanding that he be near her. It was designed by the Goddess, that their souls should find each other. And I will always pull them together. He can no more stop following her than he can stop breathing.

After a fierce gallop across Tanagar canyon bridge and nudging his horse up to the ancient columns, he finally starts to relax. I can feel the tension leave his shoulders. 

Zelda, however, seems far from pleased. 

“I thought I made it clear that I am not in need of an escort,” she says with great indignation. “ It seems I’m the only one with a mind of my own. I, the person in question, am fine, regardless of the king’s orders. Return to the castle. And tell that to my father, please.”

She was in the process of examining one of the shrines left by the Sheikah monks, meant to temper the hero’s spirit and strengthen him for the trials ahead. These are objects of curiosity for Hylians, and for Zelda in particular, but they are meant to play a vital role. It is essential that the hero be able to access these shrines. Without completing a significant portion of the shrines, I predict a 98.2% chance that the hero’s spirit will break. 

My master takes this in stride. It is hardly the first time he’s weathered such outbursts. He steps in line, always three paces behind her. 

She whirls around. “And stop following me!”

She is so angry with him, all the time.  She does not understand that Hylia’s chosen hero will follow her to the ends of the earth and beyond. He will follow her through time, through space, through any hardship, just to see her safe and the land protected.

She does not yet know that she and the land are one. And he is now starting to realize that his duty, his destiny, is to protect them all.

A Champion’s Compassion

“Ah, well…you certainly got here fast. I should have expected as much from the princess’s own appointed knight.” The Gerudo champion looks down at the sleeping Zelda. “She was out on a survey all day today. Still as the sands now…” Turning to look at my master, her eyes sparkle in the desert night. “So…? Spill it, boy. Have the two of you been getting along all right?”

Quite the opposite, I think to myself. He must have heard the thought, because he winces. 

The champion laughs. “It’s OK… I know. Your silence speaks volumes.” She sighs, looking down at the sleeping princess on her lap . “She gets frustrated every time she looks up and sees you carrying that sword on your back. It makes her feel like a failure when it comes to her own destiny.”

And hardly fair, given how little progress this hero has made in his own right, I think sullenly. They are both so unprepared, so untested. Training drills and prayer are hardly enough to strengthen their spirits. The champions have been through much more rigorous trials to connect with their divine beasts. I am happy to say that Zelda’s confidence in them is well founded. 

“Don’t worry, it’s not like you carry blame in any of this.”   She sighs, stroking Zelda’s hair.  “It’s unfortunate. She’s put in more than enough time. Ever since she was a young girl, she’s gone through rigorous daily routines to show her dedication. She once passed out in the freezing waters trying to access this sealing power. And she has nothing to show for it… That’s the motivation driving her research. I’d be doing the same thing.”

I appreciate the Gerudo champion. She is a formidable blademaster, a dedicated champion, and a wise and supportive presence in Zelda’s life. Far more than can be said for the useless aristocrat that calls himself the king, without a drop of Hylia’s blood to his name. 

“She really is quite…special. You be sure to protect her with your life.” She looks at my master with a piercing maternal gaze. “It’s quite the honour.”

He knows this. I know he dreams of it every night. He knows he will fight and die for her. He meets Urbosa’s gaze, and I sense she knows it too. 

The champion reclines on her cushions. She has done much to make her divine beast a more comfortable abode, befitting a Gerudo chief. 

“The night brings a chill… It’s probably time we take her in. Or...” She smirks as some mischief crosses her mind, then with a snap of her fingers, the desert sky lights up with electricity.

My master stumbles at the quaking thunder and Zelda wakes up, frightened. Neither of them have ever been particularly fond of storms and lightning, even if they don’t know why. 

“Urbosa! What was that?! Did you feel that?!” Zelda gasps, before catching my master’s shadow by the doorway. 

“Wait, what--how did you-- what are you doing here?!”

He blushes furiously, and though the darkness might conceal the pinkish glow from some, Urbosa’s gaze is far too sharp to miss it. She leans back with a hearty laugh. 

“Wha-what’s so funny?”

“Ah, you, my dear.” Urbosa wipes a tear of mirth from her eye. “One day you’ll laugh about all of this.”

I hope she is right. They deserve to laugh. 

Blood on the Sand 

MASTER! I am screaming as loudly as I can. MASTER! DANGER! GO!

He feels my desperation, dropping the bundle of arrows he was examining from a merchant in the Kara Kara bazaar, and takes off sprinting towards the pull that he’s grown used to, the itch behind his eyes that’s always there. But now it is more acute, so loud he must be able to hear the ringing of the dowsing call in his ears. 

He rounds the corner and sees them. Those cursed agents of evil, seduced by the false promises of Demise, and they are chasing Zelda over the sands. They cackle, their wicked sickles glinting in the hot desert sun. There is a cold rage in my master’s heart, and he puts on another burst of speed, drawing me from my scabbard. I brace myself, ready for the battle, as the Yiga’s blade curves towards Zelda’s fallen body.

My master is quick, and ruthless. I feel myself slip through the Yiga’s neck with a cold efficiency as warm blood soaks the edge of my blade.  The body drops to the ground as he wheels around to face the other two. I can sense their fear, and I calculate only a 26% likelihood that they will attempt to continue the fight.  

Sure enough, they scatter and vanish into the desert wind. My master does not take his eyes from them until they are truly gone, only then sheathing my bloody blade and turning towards Zelda. He gives her his hand to help her upright. “Are you hurt?” he asks fearfully. I can feel his heart still pounding in his chest. 

Her eyes. She has never looked at him with any fondness before, but her eyes are brimming with gratitude and care. “ No, I’m fine, I just…” she pauses, and bursts into tears. 

I know Link is thinking nothing of propriety when he wraps his arms around her. I know she is thinking nothing of resentment when she buries her face in his shoulder and sobs, the fear and adrenaline rushing through her body. 

Maybe this is the beginning. Maybe this is how their spirits will grow. Maybe this is how evil will lose.

Laughter

I am not supposed to feel emotion. It was not part of my design. Yet after spending millennia borne by Hylians and getting to know their innermost thoughts, I have inevitably adapted to many of their traits. 

To that end, I am beginning to feel… frustrated. 

“There’s one! Oh! And another! The flowers we have in Hyrule aren’t just beautiful…They’re also quite useful as ingredients for a variety of things.”

Today the spirit maiden and my master are out on a field survey. I am grateful that they are getting along better, and that her resentment seems to have given way to a nascent friendship. My frustration is not with them. It simply irks me to see the Sheikah slate being used like some ordinary pictobox. 

She gasps with excitement, and Link quickly settles down beside her. 

“This one here is called the silent princess. It’s a rare, endangered species. Despite our efforts, we can’t get them to grow domestically yet. The princess can only thrive out here in the wild. All that we can hope…is that the species will be strong enough to prosper, on its own.”

She smiles, sadly, and my master’s heart flutters. He understands her meaning as clearly as I do. Neither of them can thrive here. They know that their destinies are not waiting for them inside the castle walls. 

The prayers, the training, the wasted time, the technology that they’ve only uncovered 18% of the capabilities of… they must feel as frustrated as I do. 

The somber moment is dissipated as Zelda gasps with excitement and lunges forward.

“Is that what I think it is?! Look at this, I don’t believe it, but I actually caught one! This delicacy is known to have very, very potent effects under the proper circumstances. Tada!”  

She opens her hands to reveal… a frog. My master recoils slightly.

“Research from the castle shows ingesting one of these can actually augment certain abilities. We wouldn’t be in a controlled environment out here, but with your level of physical fitness…you’d be a perfect candidate for the study! Go on! Taste it!”

Link makes a truly disgusted face. 

“Oh come now, I’ve seen you eating Goron rock roast. Surely you’re not put off by a little bit of mucus for the sake of scientific inquiry?”

She may have a point there. This particular incarnation of the Hero’s spirit seems to have a stomach made of cast iron. 

With a resigned sigh – he truly cannot refuse her anything – he leans down towards her hands… and the frog leaps straight into his face. He startles, falling backwards on his rear as the frog scampers away. 

Zelda collapses to the ground in a fit of infectious giggles, and soon enough the pair of them are leaning on each other as their laughter echoes through the hillside.

The Question of Destiny

In truth, I do relish sword drills. It is for my benefit as well; learning how my master moves, what his grip is on the sword, the gestures he favours. My algorithms internalize and optimize every movement. As we practice together, we grow closer. Even if he cannot hear me, he knows that I am with him, helping to guide his actions and see that each strike lands true.  

Zelda watches him closely from her shelter beneath the tree.

“I doubt this will let up anytime soon… Your path seems to mirror your father’s. You’ve dedicated yourself to becoming a knight, as well. Your commitment to the training necessary to fulfill your goal is really quite admirable. I see now why you would be the chosen one.”

He stiffens slightly. His father had only died a year ago, and the wound was still fresh. But Zelda seems too lost in her own thoughts to notice.

“What if… One day…You realised that you just weren’t meant to be a fighter. Yet the only thing people ever said…was that you were born into a family of the royal guard, and so no matter what you thought, you had to become a knight. If that was the only thing that you were ever told… I wonder, then…would you have chosen a different path?”

There was no other destiny for my master. He was born to be Hylia’s chosen.

Not for the first time in my long existence, I wonder at the cruelty of the Goddess’ choice of mortal champions in this cosmic war.

Link pauses a moment before returning me to the sheath across his back. 

“This… isn’t about me, is it?”

Zelda blushes. “I… well…”

He takes her hand. I can feel both of their heartbeats quicken.

“I think…” he pauses, choosing his words carefully. “I think that no matter who I was, where I was born, whatever was expected of me…”

“Yes?”

“I would find my way to you.”

Prayer and Dedication

It is a unique pain that my master must experience, and thus I experience alongside him. The unique pain that comes from watching someone you love torture themselves for circumstances beyond their control.

These prayers are useless. She is not praying to a Goddess. She is meant to awaken the Goddess within her own spirit. But they still cannot hear me, and nothing I could suggest to my master would have any effect. And so, I sit, sheathed and silent as my master and I ache at the desperation in Zelda’s voice. 

“I come seeking help, regarding this power that has been handed down over time. Prayer will awaken my power to seal Ganon away… Or so I’ve been told all my life. 

And yet… Grandmother heard them--the voices from the spirit realm. And Mother said her own power would develop within me. But I don’t hear, or feel anything! 

Father has told me time and time again… He always says, “Quit wasting your time playing at being a scholar!” Curse you…”

Holy water splashes against clenched fists. 

“I’ve spent every day of my life dedicated to praying! I’ve pleaded to the spirits tied to the ancient gods. And still the holy powers have proven deaf to my devotion.  Please just tell me, what is it…? What’s wrong with me?!”

Link’s composure finally cracks. I am truthfully relieved when he drops me down on the stones and splashes into the spring, wrapping a sobbing Zelda in his embrace.

“There’s nothing wrong with you. We’ll figure this out, together. I promise, Zelda, I promise…” He strokes her hair, and she weeps all the more.

I cannot weep, it is not in my design. I should not feel emotion, but despite my programming, I have begun to understand something of grief. Oh, children, what have we done to you?

They may not succeed. They may not have the strength and ability to fight off the coming Calamity. But I will fight back. The Goddess created me to protect and guide her chosen. I must do whatever I can. 

Calamity and Corruption

The final spring. The last hope they had. And just as I had predicted, nothing happened. 

The champions all do their best to conceal their dismay, offering words of encouragement to Zelda, but to little avail. The Zora champion starts to say something, but –

The ground shakes.

The sky darkens.

The Rito champion launches himself skyward to see what’s taking place, but before I even hear his horrified gasp, I know what has happened. 

My master leaps forward to support Zelda as she stumbles. He does not need to be told either. Just as with every Hero’s spirit preceding him, he has seen this moment in his dreams since he was an infant. But he is not ready, Zelda is not ready and the Calamity must know this as well. It has chosen this precise moment of despair to strike. 

The champions disperse, each of them racing back to their Divine Beasts. Without the spirit maiden’s sealing power, the only hope at holding the Calamity at bay now lies with the strength of the champions. 

Link and Zelda, now alone, race down the promenade towards Kakariko village. Bolts of purple and black tar seem to be streaking across the sky overhead, the sunset rapidly disappearing behind the dark clouds.

This is unfamiliar to me. What kind of attack is the Calamity readying? I have never witnessed this before. 

They keep running, over the Sahasra slope and towards Hyrule field. The castle is the nexus point. Link must be ready for when the champions reach the divine beasts for their attack. We must try to defeat the Calamity, with or without the Goddess’ power. There is only a 2.6% chance that we succeed, but 2.6% is not 0. 

beep

What…?

beep    beep beep beepbeepbeepbeep

A guardian! Link and Zelda both heave a sigh of relief. The guardians have been deployed from Castle Town to protect the surrounding villages. At least that will provide some measure of safety.

Wait... Something’s wrong.

POW!

Without a moment to spare, Link tackles Zelda to the ground out of the way of the guardian’s deadly line of fire. Without a second thought, he pulls me from my scabbard, leaps forward and drives me straight into the guardian’s vulnerable eye. It sparks, fizzes, and collapses, purple smoke billowing out of its joints.

“What’s going on?” Zelda screams, as torrents of purple-black tar continue to pour from the sky onto Hyrule field and Castle town. “Why did it fire at us?”

Wasting no time, Link grabs her arm and whirls around, sprinting back the way they came and dragging Zelda behind him. 

“Link, no! We need to go to the castle!”

“Zelda, we – ”

A bolt of purple tar slams into me.

“The master sword!” Zelda cries. 

CORRUPTION! 

This is the Calamity’s plan! Oh, Hylia, no!

He has remembered his defeat from 10,000 years ago. He remembered the technology that was turned against him and his armies, and his hatred and malice are now corrupting every element of Sheikah technology, and everything they interface with.

Including me.

NO! I twist through the dark tendrils reaching through my circuitry. YOU WILL NOT TOUCH ME. I WAS CREATED BY THE GODDESS HYLIA, AND I WILL NOT YIELD TO YOU, FOUL AGENT OF DEMISE. 

I push back along these tendrils of malice, burning them away with the divine light of the Goddess. I reach through the telepathic link I share with the Sheikah technology, cutting and blazing through the spreading rot. The Sheikah slate, the towers, the shrines, all the creations designed to interface with the Hero’s soul, I can still connect with them! With every scrap of energy I have left, I burn away the malice creeping through their networks.

The malice fights back, the darkness spreading… but I will not yield.

Exhaustion and Despair 

The forest near the bottomless swamp is dark and twisted, the tangled roots and mud are treacherous in the shadow of the storm. It is almost dawn, they haven’t slept, they are still running.  I can feel the exhaustion creeping in, their stamina depleting. I too am exhausted - still fighting against the malice, trying to keep it at bay. I cannot help them any more than this. 

Zelda stumbles and cries out, falling to her knees on the path made slick by torrential rains. 

“How… How did it come to this?”

My master kneels beside her, desperate to move along, but reticent to force her to keep running. 

“The Divine Beasts…The Guardians… They’ve all turned against us. It was Calamity Ganon. It turned them all against us!”

She is weeping in earnest now, rivers of tears meeting the raindrops already pouring down her face.

“And everyone--Mipha, Urbosa, Revali and Daruk… They’re all trapped in those things… It’s all my fault! Our only hope for defeating Calamity Ganon is lost, all because I couldn’t harness this cursed power! Everything--everything I’ve done up until now… It was all for nothing. So I really am just a failure! All my friends, the entire kingdom, my father most of all… I tried, and I failed them all… I’ve left them all to die…

“Zelda…” he grips her tighter. “Zelda, we have to go. There may be soldiers who can protect you at Fort Hateno. We need to go.”

She nods miserably, taking his arm and standing up again. They turn to the misty shadows, and keep running.

I truly had hoped their love might be enough. 

Hylia Reborn

They are tracking us. Some corruption of their programming has locked them to our signal. Perhaps it is me they are tracking, a beacon of the Goddess’ light flickering amid the swirling chaos of malice.

Wouldn’t that be ironic. 

The guardians homing in on us are coming thick and fast. While I am able to target their weak points with a respectable accuracy, I was made to cut through Demise’s creations - beings of corrupted flesh. I was never made to fight these machines. 

Link is exhausted. Almost two days with little sleep and hardly any food, he has taken more than his fair share of blows. There are gashes across his legs and arms that are oozing blood, and three of his ribs are broken. I predict that he will lose consciousness in less than four minutes. 

But Zelda is unharmed, for now. Nothing else matters to him at this moment.

He stabs me through the eye of yet another guardian, staggering backwards and leaning on me heavily.

“Link, save yourself! Go! I’ll be fine! Don’t worry about me! Run!”

He can hardly hear her through the blood rushing in his ears, and the incessant beeping as they scan for us. I don’t know what to do! The Goddess left no instructions for this. I have never witnessed my master die. 

Another guardian has spotted us through the husks of its fellows. My master is so tired, and I have no strength to give him.

And yet Link pulls me up once more, readying himself and covering Zelda with his body, as the laser flares to life. 

This is it. 

Hylia, forgive me. I have failed you.

“NO!”

Zelda leaps forward, throwing herself in front of Link, hands raised in desperation. What is she -?

The world explodes with golden light.

Link winces, but does not shield his eyes. Nor would I, if I had eyes to behold this sight. The light radiates from her, guardians exploding and collapsing in its wake. 

She did it. Hylia has come into her own!

“Was… Was that…? The power?” she whispers in the sudden quiet that follows as the corrupted machines power down.

You did it, Zel. he thinks, and seeing her safe, he finally yields to the pain. 

She whirls around as he falls. “ No, no…Link! Get up!” She lifts him into her arms, hardly noticing the blood soaking into her ruined dress. “You’re going to be just fine…”

He looks up to her, eyes full of pride, of sadness, and love, and then he lets the darkness take him. 

Our telepathic link snaps. I cannot sense his thoughts anymore. He is... gone. 

Hylia help me, I did everything I could, but I could not save him. May the Goddess forgive me. 

The Goddess holds his body and weeps.

But, wait.

Against the pommel of the sword, I feel the slightest pressure.

thump thump

thump thump

thump thump

A pulse. A pulse! His heart is still beating. He might yet be saved!

With my  limited remaining computing power, I desperately run through the calculations. The medical infrastructure needed to treat these wounds is sorely lacking in this era of Hyrule, but... Yes! It is there! Reaching through the Sheikah network, I can feel it, safe from the Calamity’s corruption. I remember the monk Maz Koshia designing this shrine for just this reason. The Shrine of Resurrection. 

Above me, Zelda shifts. Slowly, she starts to relinquish him, not noticing the pulse that I can feel, still beating ever so faintly in his chest.

No. NO! She cannot let go! 

HYLIA, HEAR ME! I am screaming through broken circuits and fragmented code. I have been damaged beyond anything I was designed to withstand, I am decayed beyond measure, but she is awake! She must listen!

ALIVE

My strength is fading, but she cannot abandon him! Not now! 

ALIVE

ALIVE

“The sword…?” 

She has heard me! YES.

“So he can… He can still be saved?”

QUICKLY, THERE IS NO TIME! THE SHRINE OF RESURRECTION ON THE GREAT PLATEAU. YOU MUST TAKE HIM THERE, NOW. IT IS THE ONLY WAY.

“I… how..?”

“Princess!” a voice echoes from across the field. The Sheikah, loyal to the last, have tracked the Goddess here. Their timing could not be better.

“Princess! Are you all right?”

She draws herself up with a strength I have never seen in her before. 

“Take Link to the Shrine of Resurrection. If you don’t get him there immediately, we are going to lose him forever! Is that clear?! So make haste and go! His life is now in your hands!”

The two men nod, immediately setting to work to stabilize him for the journey. They lift him carefully, wrapping his deepest wounds in bandages, before melting into the shadows as only Sheikah can. Zelda watches them disappear into the rain, then grips me hard, clutching me to her chest.

“You speak? I can hear you? How? How is this possible?”

With the last bit of strength I can muster, I answer. YOU ARE AWAKE. 

“The power?”

YES. THROUGH YOUR GRACE AND WISDOM, AND LOVE FOR MY MASTER, YOU HAVE FOUND THE TRUE POWER OF YOUR SPIRIT.

“What do I do?” she cries. “How can I seal the Calamity without Link? Without the champions?”

BREATHE, ZELDA. 

I am not meant for this task. I am meant to guide the hero, not the spirit maiden, but I carry enough of the Goddess’ memories to know what must be done while she waits for the hero to return.

YOUR POWERS SHOULD NOW CONNECT YOU TO THE SPIRIT MAIDENS WHO HAVE COME BEFORE YOU. LISTEN TO THEM. THEY WILL GUIDE YOU. 

She looks startled, but she does what I say. Sitting in the mud amid the husks of the defeated guardians, she takes a deep, shuddering breath. Her ancestors gather around, and I hear the whispers of Hylia’s past incarnations floating past me, just on the edge of hearing. She glows with a faint golden light in the falling rain. After a few minutes, she opens her eyes.

“Yes.” She says. “Even if he cannot yet be defeated. I can hold the Calamity at bay. I… I have done it before.”

MANY TIMES

She nods. “And what of you? I cannot bring you with me, but I cannot leave you here.”

I am barely capable of speaking anymore. The decay of the malice has been stopped by her light, but I am already close to shattering. 

I AM WEARY. I MUST HEAL. 

“Of course, what must I do?”

TAKE ME TO THE LOST WOODS. THE CHILDREN OF THE FOREST WILL LEAD YOU THERE. 

Laid to Rest

With the spirit of the Goddess awakened within her, Zelda can now see the korok spirits guiding her, from the field of battle all the way through the Lost Woods. Now she stands at the roots of the Great Deku Tree. At last, I can rest. In Hylia’s light, my master and I shall both become whole again.

“Your master will come for you. Until then, you shall rest safely here. Although the Slumber of Restoration will most certainly deprive him of his memories, please trust me when I say that I know he will arrive before you yet again.”

She places me carefully back in the pedestal at the Great Deku Tree’s roots. I feel myself slipping into my deep sleep once again. 

As my consciousness fades, I hear the Deku Tree ask “If I may be so bold…what is it that you are planning to do next, Princess?”

Zelda looks resolute. “The Master Sword… I heard it speak to me. It seems that my role is unfinished. There is still something I must do.”

“I sense there is great strength in your dedication.”

She has greater strength than ever. She is not alone anymore. The spirits of her ancestors are guiding her now, all the way back to the first Zelda who sealed Demise for a thousand years, waiting for her hero to return. 

“Great Deku Tree, I ask of you, when he returns, can you please relay this message… Tell him I—"

He interrupts her. “ Now, then… Words intended for him would sound much better in the tones of your voice, don’t you think?”

She smiles up at him, nods in understanding.

As my consciousness finally slips away, I think to myself, dearest Zelda. He already knows. He loves you too.

Awakening II

He is awake, and so am I. 

The spirits of the forest are chittering with excitement. Even as I rest here, I can hear the Great Deku Tree stirring with anticipation. We all felt the call of the spirit maiden locked away in Hyrule Castle, calling him once again to her side. I have felt her longing for him these hundred years. 

This time, he will grow strong in spirit. This time, we shall fight together. 

This time, the Calamity will fall.

Thanks so much for reading! You can also find this fic on AO3

[mirisss]

Symphony of Souls

The Boyz OT11 x afab! reader

Wordcount ≈ 8.1k

Warnings: None I think, a little angsty but barely, 

Thank you for the request! I hope you like it!

Third Person POV

In the dazzling realm of K-pop, where talent and charisma converge, there exists a phenomenon that transcends the boundaries of mere musical synergy. Among the stars that illuminate this celestial stage, The Boyz stands as a testament to the extraordinary connections that fate weaves. Comprising eleven exceptional members, this group has captured the hearts of fans worldwide with their unparalleled performances and undeniable chemistry.

What the world may not yet comprehend is that beyond the mesmerizing choreography and harmonious melodies, The Boyz share a bond that goes beyond the surface—a bond forged in the fires of destiny and illuminated by the radiant glow of love. They are not just a group; they are soulmates, intricately linked by threads of fate that tie their destinies together in an ethereal dance.

However, amidst the cosmic harmony that envelops these eleven souls, a poignant emptiness lingers. As fate would have it, there exists a twelfth soulmate yet to be revealed—a missing piece in the intricate puzzle of their lives. Together, they navigate the boundless cosmos of stardom, seeking the one who will complete their constellation, filling the void with a celestial love that transcends the ordinary.

In the effervescent landscape of K-pop, where talents bloom like vibrant blossoms, a new luminary emerged—(Y/n), a freshly debuted actress and soloist whose ethereal presence bewitched hearts from the very first note. With her debut album, she painted sonic landscapes that echoed in the souls of many, capturing the attention of an adoring audience eager to embark on a journey through her musical realm.

What set (Y/n) apart wasn't merely her vocal prowess, but also her ability to weave tales with emotion and authenticity. The music video accompanying her debut single was a cinematic masterpiece, a visual symphony that showcased not only her musical prowess but also her flair for the dramatic. It was in this enchanting audio-visual tapestry that (Y/n) unveiled a multifaceted artistry, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those who witnessed her debut.

As if destiny itself were orchestrating her ascent, whispers of (Y/n)'s imminent foray into the world of acting began to circulate. The stage was set for a new chapter as it was announced that she would be gracing the small screen as the lead in a highly anticipated drama. Anticipation rippled through the industry, and fans eagerly awaited the convergence of her musical and dramatic talents in what promised to be a spellbinding performance.

With every step, (Y/n) was proving to be a rising star of exceptional luminosity, illuminating the K-pop world with her presence. The world eagerly awaited the unfolding chapters of her journey, both in the studio and on the screen, as (Y/n) embarked on a path destined for greatness in the realms of music and acting alike.

As the excitement swirled in the vibrant cosmos of The Boyz, a particular star within the constellation burned even brighter—Younghoon, the charismatic and talented third oldest member. The news of his successful audition for the male lead in the same drama that (Y/n) would be gracing was met with jubilation that echoed through the corridors of destiny.

Younghoon's joy radiated like a supernova, illuminating the faces of his fellow members—Sangyeon, Jacob, Hyunjae, Juyeon, Kevin, Changmin, Chanhee, Haknyeon, Sunwoo, and Eric. The air was charged with electric energy as they came together to celebrate this momentous occasion, recognizing that their constellation was expanding to encompass not only the musical realm but also the boundless horizon of acting.

Amidst the revelry, laughter, and shared excitement, Younghoon stood as a beacon of inspiration, a testament to the dreams that could manifest when talent, dedication, and opportunity converged. Each member, a vital thread in the intricate tapestry of The Boyz, contributed to the celebration, forging a bond that transcended the stage and studio.

As they raised a collective toast to Younghoon's triumph, the stars of The Boyz shone with pride and anticipation for the spectacular journey that lay ahead. 

As the first rays of dawn painted the sky in hues of soft pastels, (Y/n) awoke with a giddy excitement that bubbled within her like a fizzy elixir. Today held the promise of a meeting that stirred butterflies in the depths of her being—she was to meet Younghoon, the charismatic third oldest of The Boyz. The thought alone sent a delightful shiver down her spine, and she couldn't contain the joy that danced in her eyes.

A devoted deobi, (Y/n) had been a steadfast fan of The Boyz since the very inception of their journey with the effervescent anthem "Boy." Through the highs and lows, the stages, and the milestones, she had stood by them as a beacon of unwavering support. The music, the performances, and the camaraderie of the eleven stars had woven a tapestry of memories in her heart, and today marked a chapter where her path would intersect with one of those shining stars.

The excitement, palpable in the air, manifested in a radiant smile that adorned (Y/n)'s face as she prepared for the day. She felt a sense of kinship with Younghoon, a connection forged through the melodies that resonated in her soul. Today, that connection would take a tangible form, and the prospect thrilled her beyond measure.

With a heart brimming with anticipation and a deobi spirit ablaze, (Y/n) stepped into the day, ready to embark on an adventure that promised not only the joy of meeting Younghoon but also the continuation of a journey she had cherished since The Boyz's first notes had captivated her heart. 

The sunlit morning found Younghoon's eyes blinking open with an infectious excitement that mirrored the fluttering anticipation within his heart. Today held a special rendezvous with (Y/n), and the prospect of working together on the drama set ignited a joy that painted his smile with an extra layer of radiance.

As he shuffled through his morning routine, Kevin couldn't help but feel a twinge of jealousy, his eyes narrowing playfully as he teased Younghoon.

"Younghoon-hyung, you lucky guy! Getting to work with (Y/n) and all. I'd kill to be in your shoes," Kevin exclaimed, a mock pout on his face.

Younghoon chuckled, understanding Kevin's playful envy. "Come on, Kev. It's just work. But I get it; (Y/n)'s music is amazing. I'll make sure to tell her you're a big fan."

Kevin's eyes widened, a mischievous grin replacing his faux pout. "You would do that for me? You're the best, hyung! Hey, why don't you bring me to the set? Just for a day, please?"

Younghoon laughed, shaking his head. "As much as I'd love to have you there, Kev, it's not up to me. The schedules are tight, and you know how it is. But I promise to share all the juicy details and maybe get an autograph for you."

Kevin feigned a dramatic sigh. "Fine, fine. Just make sure to ask for an autograph on my favorite album, okay? And tell her I said hi!"

Younghoon nodded, already envisioning the playful banter he'd share with (Y/n) about Kevin's admiration. As the day unfolded, he carried with him the shared excitement of The Boyz and the knowledge that, while Kevin might not physically be on set, his enthusiasm would undoubtedly be present in spirit.

In the bustling pre-dawn hours, Sangyeon, the venerable leader and eldest among The Boyz, sought out Younghoon with a warm smile. As he approached, he clapped a supportive hand on Younghoon's shoulder, his eyes gleaming with genuine encouragement.

"Younghoon, you've got this. Knock 'em dead on set today. We're all rooting for you," Sangyeon said, his words carrying the weight of camaraderie and shared aspirations.

Younghoon nodded, grateful for the leader's words of encouragement. "Thanks, hyung. I'll do my best."

However, before Sangyeon could linger in the exchange, the distant sounds of a lively dispute reached their ears. With a knowing look, Sangyeon excused himself, patting Younghoon's back once more.

"Break a leg, and remember, we're a family. We've got your back," Sangyeon assured before heading towards the source of the commotion.

As he approached, the scene unfolded before him—Sunwoo, the mischievous troublemaker, had evidently found another opportunity for mischief. Chanhee, caught in the crossfire, looked more exasperated than angry as he realized that his clothes had fallen victim to Sunwoo's impromptu prank.

Sangyeon sighed, adopting a tone that blended authority with understanding. "Alright, boys, let's not turn the house into a battlefield. Sunwoo, give Chanhee his clothes back, and let's focus on supporting Younghoon and working today."

Sunwoo grinned, mischief dancing in his eyes, but he complied, returning Chanhee's clothes with an exaggerated bow. Sangyeon, with a bemused shake of his head, continued to play the role of the wise elder, smoothing out the ripples in the group dynamics before wishing everyone well for the day ahead. The drama both on and off the set promised to be as entertaining as The Boyz's performances themselves.

The film studio hummed with the quiet anticipation of creativity as (Y/n) stepped through its entrance. The air crackled with the promise of a new venture, and her senses were heightened, attuned to every nuance of the surroundings. Amidst the bustling activity, one figure stood out—Younghoon, his tall and commanding presence catching her eye.

As (Y/n) approached, the symphony of butterflies in her stomach played a melodic tune that mirrored the gentle thrumming of her heart. She couldn't help but feel a magnetic pull toward Younghoon, a force that drew her closer with each step. The air seemed charged with an unspoken energy, and when Younghoon turned around, their eyes met in a collision of fate.

Time seemed to slow as recognition sparked in Younghoon's eyes. In that moment, the world around them faded into the background, leaving only the two of them in a shared, suspended reality. The soulmate bond that connected their destinies clicked into place, resonating with an invisible force that enveloped them in a cocoon of connection.

(Y/n) felt as though only they existed in that singular moment. The studio, the crew, and the world beyond blurred into insignificance as their gaze lingered deepening the unspoken understanding that transcended the ordinary. It was a moment where souls touched, and the universe acknowledged the serendipity of their meeting.

As their hands touched, a subtle electric charge surged between Younghoon and (Y/n), and in that moment, an unspoken realization passed between them. Younghoon, his eyes gleaming with happiness, couldn't contain the bubbling joy within him. He took a step forward, his heart dancing with newfound lightness.

"Hi, I'm Younghoon," he grinned, the happiness radiating from him like a warm aura. "And, well, I guess I can't help but feel incredibly lucky to be your soulmate."

(Y/n)'s eyes widened, a mix of surprise and delight coloring her features. "Really?" she chuckled, charmed by Younghoon's sincerity. "Well, I'm (Y/n), and I guess that makes us quite the pair, doesn't it?"

As they shared introductions, the atmosphere around them seemed to shift, as if the universe itself acknowledged the significance of their meeting. The air buzzed with an unspoken connection, and the studio, for a fleeting moment, felt like their own private world.

Younghoon chuckled, his gaze holding a playful sparkle. "The Boyz are known for their visuals, but I have to say, meeting you in person, you're even more beautiful than I imagined."

(Y/n) blushed, a genuine smile gracing her lips. "Flattery will get you everywhere, Younghoon. But seriously, it's a pleasure to meet you. I've been a fan of The Boyz for a long time."

The exchange of words became a delightful dance, a symphony of laughter and connection that echoed within the studio walls. The shared recognition of their soulmate bond added a layer of magic to the encounter, setting the stage for a journey that promised to be as enchanting as the melodies sung by The Boyz themselves.

The enchanting moment shared between Younghoon and (Y/n) was abruptly punctuated by the discreet but pointed clearing of throats from their managers. The spell momentarily broken, they exchanged a sheepish glance before refocusing on the task at hand.

"Alright, let's get back to work," one of the managers announced with a businesslike tone, gently steering the atmosphere away from the lingering magic of the soulmate encounter.

Younghoon and (Y/n) nodded in unison, the shared understanding of the professional setting settling in. As the managers guided them back into the rhythm of the shoot, the studio once again hummed with the orchestrated movements of actors, crew, and the intricate dance of storytelling.

Despite the interruption, the connection forged between Younghoon and (Y/n) lingered in the air, infusing the set with a subtle warmth. They approached their roles with newfound energy, a shared secret glinting in their eyes as they delved into the world of their characters.

The managers satisfied that the brief interlude hadn't derailed the proceedings, observed the unfolding scenes with a watchful eye. As the cameras rolled and the drama unfolded, it was evident that the encounter between Younghoon and (Y/n) had added an unspoken layer to the narrative—a behind-the-scenes tale that would forever remain etched in the shared history of The Boyz and their newfound soulmate in the world of acting.

Seated together during a break on the bustling set, Younghoon and (Y/n) enjoyed a moment of reprieve. The camaraderie between them felt effortless as if they had been friends for much longer than the brief encounter suggested. As they delved into their lunch, Younghoon couldn't help but smile at (Y/n), his eyes reflecting the genuine connection they shared.

"By the way," Younghoon began a playful glint in his eyes, "I have a favor to ask. Kevin, one of our members, is a huge fan of yours. Mind signing an autograph for him? I promised I'd get one."

(Y/n) laughed, the gesture light and infectious. "Of course! I'd be honored. Just let me know where I can sign, and I'll make sure to add a little note for Kevin."

Younghoon, grateful for (Y/n)'s willingness, pointed to a corner of his script. "Right here should be perfect. Thanks a bunch, (Y/n). Kevin's going to flip when he sees this."

As (Y/n) took the script to jot down the autograph, Younghoon couldn't help but steer the conversation toward the unique bond they shared. "You know, (Y/n), being soulmates with me means you're soulmates with all eleven members of The Boyz. It's like a package deal."

(Y/n) chuckled, charmed by the notion. "A package deal, huh? I'm starting to feel like the luckiest soulmate in the world."

Younghoon grinned, a warmth spreading through him. "Well, you've got ten more awesome guys waiting to meet you properly. Who knows, maybe we can all hang out sometime."

The prospect of a shared connection with The Boyz beyond Younghoon added an intriguing layer to their budding friendship. As they continued their meal, the studio buzzed around them, but at that moment, it felt like the universe had carved out a little corner where soulmates, both singular and collective, could share laughter and camaraderie amidst the magic of filmmaking.

The door to The Boyz's shared residence swung open, and Younghoon entered, his face radiant with an unmistakable joy that couldn't be contained. His fellow members, gathered in the living room, turned their attention towards him, their curiosity piqued.

Sangyeon, the ever-watchful leader, couldn't help but grin. "Well, how was the first day on set? Spill the details, Younghoon!"

Younghoon practically beamed, unable to contain his excitement. "Guys, you won't believe what happened today. (Y/n), our soulmate is amazing! She's not only talented but also incredibly nice and down-to-earth. It's like we've known each other forever."

The room fell into stunned silence as the realization of Younghoon's words settled in. The members exchanged wide-eyed glances, and then, almost in unison, erupted into a chorus of exclamations.

"(Y/n) is our soulmate too?" Changmin questioned, not believing his ears.  

"No way, you're kidding, right?" Eric exclaimed loudly as he jumped up and down. 

"Younghoon-hyung, you've got to be messing with us!" Kevin shouted, he was certain he was dreaming. 

Younghoon laughed, reveling in the infectious astonishment of his fellow members. "No joke, guys! We're all connected through our soulmate bond. It's like fate brought us together in the most unexpected way."

Hyunjae, always quick with a teasing remark, chimed in, "So, what's she like? Is she as pretty in person as she is in her music videos?"

Younghoon nodded enthusiastically. "Even more so. And she's genuinely kind. I got her autograph for you, Kevin," Kevin took the paper from Younghoon’s hands, jumping with joy. 

As the news settled in, the members couldn't help but exchange excited glances. The living room buzzed with animated conversation as they eagerly delved into the details of Younghoon's day and looked forward to the possibility of getting to know (Y/n) better. Fate had woven another unexpected chapter into the tapestry of The Boyz's journey, and they embraced it with open hearts and wide smiles.

Haknyeon's playful interruption cast a brief shadow over the jubilant atmosphere, his mock teasing tone injecting a touch of humor into the room. "Come on, Younghoon, it's not fair that you get all the quality time with our soulmate. What about the rest of us? When do we get to meet her?"

The room erupted into laughter, the members playfully nudging Younghoon as if he held the secret to unlocking the mysteries of their shared soulmate bond. Jacob, the second oldest, decided to respond with a good-natured smile.

"Well, Haknyeon, it's all part of the cosmic plan, isn't it?" Jacob mused, his tone light. "Younghoon's just the trailblazer, paving the way for the rest of us to follow. Patience is a virtue, my friend."

Haknyeon exaggeratedly sighed, his hand on his heart. "Patience? Jacob, you make it sound like we're on a quest for some mystical treasure. I just want to meet our soulmate!"

The banter continued, the members exchanging banter and teasing as they navigated the uncharted territory of having a shared soulmate. Despite Haknyeon's faux complaints, there was an underlying excitement that permeated the air—an anticipation for the day when all of them would finally get to meet (Y/n) and discover the unique connection that fate had woven among them.

In the meantime, Younghoon, the unwitting pioneer, grinned amidst the good-natured ribbing, knowing that the shared joy of their newfound connection would only deepen as the days unfolded. The living room echoed with laughter, forging another chapter in The Boyz's journey, where friendship, fate, and a shared soulmate awaited on the horizon.

Younghoon’s POV

As I stepped onto the set the next day, my anticipation mingled with a sense of surreal wonder. The bustling activity around me seemed to fade into the background as my eyes landed on her—(Y/n), radiant in a beautiful pink dress that accentuated every curve. The makeshift wind from the fan tousled her hair, framing her like an ethereal halo, and the lights seemed to converge upon her, casting a gentle glow that transformed her into something beyond human.

Time froze for a fleeting moment as I watched her, the breath caught in my throat. She looked like a goddess, a celestial being gracing our earthly set with an otherworldly presence. The delicate swish of her dress, the way her hair danced in the invisible breeze—it was as if the universe conspired to enhance her beauty, painting a picture that transcended the ordinary.

I found myself frozen in my step, my heart pounding in awe. The world around me blurred as my gaze lingered on (Y/n), capturing every detail—the sparkle in her eyes, the grace in her movements. In that moment, she wasn't just our soulmate; she was a vision, a muse that could inspire the most enchanting tales.

As I approached, a profound appreciation settled within me. How lucky was I to have this incredible woman as our soulmate? The soft rustle of her dress, the way the lights caressed her features—it was a scene etched into my memory, a living masterpiece that only added to the magic of our shared connection.

With each step closer, the set transformed into a canvas where destiny and art converged. And in the presence of (Y/n), I couldn't help but marvel at the beauty that fate had woven into the tapestry of our lives, forever etching her as a celestial muse in the story of The Boyz.

Third Person POV

As the weeks rolled on, the culmination of their shared venture approached—MAMA, the prestigious award show (such a lie lol) that promised a dazzling celebration of talent and achievement. The drama had wrapped, leaving behind a trail of memories and a connection that had grown stronger. Now, fate had orchestrated a meeting on a grand stage—the convergence of (Y/n) and The Boyz at MAMA.

(Y/n), adorned in an elegant gown that radiated confidence, was nominated for Best Female Artist. Her heart swelled with a mix of excitement and hope, believing that The Boyz, who was nominated for Best Male Performance, truly deserved the recognition.

The Boyz, equally thrilled and ecstatic, was bubbling with anticipation at the prospect of finally meeting their soulmate. However, they knew the importance of playing it cool to avoid sparking unnecessary rumors. The camaraderie they had shared on the set, the unspoken connection as soulmates, now held the promise of being unveiled on a stage where dreams took flight.

As they walked the red carpet, the air was charged with an electric energy, a mix of nerves and exhilaration. (Y/n) carried herself with grace, a nominee and a fan in equal measure, secretly hoping for The Boyz to take home the trophy they so rightfully deserved.

Backstage, the members exchanged glances, a silent understanding passing between them. They were about to meet their soulmate, the artist who had inspired them and shared a unique connection with them. The challenge lay in keeping their excitement in check, their smiles were genuine but tempered to avoid any premature speculations.

(Y/n)’s POV

As I settled into my seat at MAMA, the air humming with anticipation, my heart began to race with the excitement of what was about to unfold. Glancing at the reserved seats beside me, I couldn't help but feel a surge of joy. This was it—the moment I had been waiting for. The moment when I would finally meet all eleven of my soulmates, The Boyz.

The auditorium buzzed with energy, but my focus was drawn to the approaching figures, each face etched in my memory from the countless times I had watched their performances. There they were, all eleven of them, their handsome faces unmistakable in the sea of people.

As they passed by, a wave of warmth enveloped me. Some of them waved, their smiles contagious, while others offered a quick hello. It felt surreal, as if a shared secret between us had now come to life in the most spectacular of settings. The casual greetings, the friendly waves—it was as if we were old friends finally meeting after a long-awaited reunion.

"Hey there, (Y/n)! We're so excited to finally meet you in person," Hyunjae exclaimed, the genuine enthusiasm evident in his voice.

I couldn't help but return the sentiment with a beaming smile. "Likewise! It's incredible to finally see you all face to face."

The brief exchange carried with it a sense of familiarity, a connection forged not just through the shared soulmate bond but through the journey of their music and performances. As they continued on to their seats, the excitement lingered in the air, a prelude to the unfolding night where destiny, music, and shared joy would intertwine in a celebration of their unique connection at MAMA.

As Juyeon and Changmin left their seats and ascended the stage, my eyes were immediately drawn to the two of them. The atmosphere shifted as they joined the other groups for a powerful dance performance, their presence commanding attention from every corner of the auditorium.

Changmin, with his ethereal grace, moved across the stage like a dancer in a dream. His every movement seemed to carry a poetic elegance, each step a testament to the artistry he brought to the performance. I couldn't tear my eyes away, captivated by the way he expressed emotion through his dance, the intensity in his eyes adding depth to the mesmerizing spectacle.

And then there was Juyeon, a force of nature on the stage. His powerful aura radiated confidence, and as he showcased his muscled body, every movement exuded strength and control. The energy he brought to the performance was palpable, and the audience was swept away by the sheer force of his presence.

Despite the other talented dancers surrounding them, in my eyes, Juyeon and Changmin were the only two up there. It wasn't just the technical brilliance of their movements; it was the way they infused each step with emotion, making the dance a powerful narrative that transcended the physicality of the performance.

As the music swelled and the dance reached its climax, I found myself caught in a spell woven by the artistry of Juyeon and Changmin. 

Sangyeon’s POV

As the leader, I stood there watching (Y/n) with a swelling sense of pride. Her unreleased song echoed through the venue, and I couldn't help but marvel at the depth of her artistry. Her vocals carried emotion, and the way she moved on stage was nothing short of captivating. It was a moment that transcended the stage—a promise fulfilled and a testament to her commitment to her craft. She was more than just a soulmate; she was an artist, a star in her own right, and seeing her shine on that stage filled me with a profound sense of joy.

Jacob’s POV

(Y/n)'s performance was like a dream unfolding before my eyes. Her unreleased song had a haunting beauty that lingered in the air, and her dancing was a graceful expression of the emotions woven into the melody. I couldn't help but be moved by the authenticity of her artistry. It was clear that she poured her heart into every note, every movement. As an artist, I felt a deep connection with her on that stage, and the cheers from the audience were a chorus of acknowledgment for her talent. It was a moment where the boundaries between performer and audience blurred, and I was privileged to witness it.

Younghoon’s POV

Watching (Y/n) take the stage was an experience that transcended words. The air in the auditorium seemed to change as the opening notes of her unreleased song filled the space. Her vocals carried a haunting beauty that resonated with every corner of the venue, and her dancing was a graceful embodiment of the emotions woven into the melody. As our soulmate, I felt a unique connection, a shared journey through the artistry of her performance. Her presence on stage was nothing short of enchanting, and I couldn't help but be captivated by the genuine smile she wore throughout. It was more than just a promise fulfilled; it was a moment where destiny, music, and the bond we shared converged into a beautiful symphony. The cheers and applause from the audience were not just for her talent; they were a celebration of the connection we all felt in that magical moment. As a member of The Boyz and her soulmate, seeing (Y/n) shine on that stage was a memory etched in my heart, a testament to the enduring power of music and destiny.

Hyunjae’s POV

(Y/n)'s performance was a revelation, and I found myself utterly captivated by her presence on stage. Her vocals resonated with a soulful quality that tugged at the heartstrings, and her dancing was a mesmerizing display of skill and emotion. The way she connected with the audience, with us, went beyond the mere performance—it was a shared experience, a moment of communion through music. As an artist, I couldn't help but be inspired by her, and the genuine smiles in the crowd were a testament to the impact she had on everyone present.

Juyeon’s POV

Watching (Y/n) on stage was like witnessing a celestial being sharing her magic with the world. Her unreleased song held a melody that seemed to echo through the very core of the venue, and her dancing was a powerful showcase of artistry. What struck me the most was the authenticity of her smile. It wasn't just about hitting the right notes or nailing the choreography; it was about the joy she found in the performance. It left an indelible mark on me, a reminder of the pure, unbridled passion that makes music so enchanting.

Kevin’s POV

(Y/n)'s performance was nothing short of breathtaking. Her unreleased song carried a melody that lingered in the air long after the last note, and her dancing was a beautiful expression of the emotions woven into the music. What struck me the most was the way she connected with the audience and, by extension, with us. It was a shared moment of celebration, and the cheers and applause were a testament to the impact of her artistry. As a fellow artist, I felt a kinship with her on that stage, and the experience was a reminder of the transformative power of music.

Chanhee’s POV

(Y/n)'s performance was a spectacle of talent and grace. The unreleased song she shared had a haunting beauty, and her dancing was like poetry in motion. I couldn't help but feel a surge of admiration for her artistry. Her presence on stage was magnetic, drawing everyone into the narrative she created with her music and movements. It was a moment that transcended the boundaries of language, where the universal language of music spoke volumes. As a member of The Boyz, I was honored to witness her shine on that stage.

Changmin’s POV

(Y/n)'s performance was a testament to the power of her artistry. The unreleased song she presented carried a unique and soulful melody, and her dancing was a masterclass in expression. What struck me the most was the way she commanded the stage with an effortless elegance. It was more than a performance; it was a journey through emotions, and the connection she forged with the audience was palpable. As an artist, I felt a deep resonance with her work, and her performance left an indelible mark on the canvas of MAMA.

Haknyeon’s POV

(Y/n)'s performance was like a symphony of emotions unfolding on stage. Her unreleased song resonated with a haunting beauty, and her dancing was a visual representation of the music's soul. What stood out to me was the genuine joy she exuded. It wasn't just about hitting the right notes; it was about sharing a piece of her heart with the audience. As a fellow performer, I couldn't help but be inspired by her passion, and the cheers from the crowd were a testament to the impact she had on everyone present.

Sunwoo’s POV

(Y/n)'s performance was a moment of sheer magic. The unreleased song she unveiled carried an emotional depth that resonated with everyone in the venue, and her dancing was a captivating display of skill and grace. What struck me the most was the connection she forged with the audience. It wasn't just about entertaining; it was about creating a shared experience through music. As a member of The Boyz, I felt a sense of pride watching her on that stage, knowing that she was not just a soulmate but an extraordinary artist.

Eric’s POV

(Y/n)'s performance was a revelation of talent and emotion. The unreleased song she presented was a melody that lingered in the air, and her dancing was a poetic expression of the music's soul. What resonated with me was the authenticity of her presence on stage. It wasn't a performance for the sake of performance; it was a genuine sharing of art and emotion. As a member of The Boyz, I felt a sense of connection with her on that stage, a shared journey through the language of music that went beyond words.

Third Person POV

The viral moments from MAMA featuring (Y/n) and The Boyz sparked a social media frenzy, capturing the attention of fans and onlookers alike. However, instead of fueling dating rumors, the prevailing narrative among most people was grounded in the belief that (Y/n) and Younghoon were simply friends who had shared the screen in the same drama.

The footage showcased heartwarming interactions between (Y/n) and The Boyz, moments that transcended the boundaries of celebrity camaraderie. Whether it was the genuine smiles exchanged, friendly waves, or shared laughter, the clips depicted a connection that went beyond the usual dynamics of actors and fellow artists. The audience's collective interpretation leaned towards the idea that the bond between (Y/n) and The Boyz was rooted in genuine friendship.

As the clips circulated on social media platforms, the comments section became a testament to the prevailing sentiment. Fans and casual observers alike celebrated the idea that (Y/n) had found friends in The Boyz beyond the confines of their professional collaborations. The absence of dating rumors was a testament to the maturity and understanding of the audience, who recognized the richness of platonic connections in the entertainment industry.

(Y/n) and The Boyz continued to navigate their newfound friendship in the public eye, and the viral moments served as a delightful reminder that genuine connections can flourish amidst the glamour of the entertainment world without necessarily giving rise to romantic speculations. The supportive responses from fans further solidified the understanding that sometimes, the most beautiful stories are those of friendship, shared dreams, and the magic of soulmates extending beyond the realms of on-screen narratives.

The break following MAMA brought a long-awaited opportunity for (Y/n) and The Boyz to meet up and forge deeper connections away from the public eye. Determined to enjoy each other's company without the scrutiny of prying eyes, they orchestrated a secret gathering, a clandestine rendezvous where the bonds of friendship could be nurtured without the weight of public expectations.

Choosing a secluded and intimate venue, (Y/n) and The Boyz gathered, relishing the freedom to simply be themselves in the company of newfound friends and soulmates. Laughter echoed through the air as they shared stories, dreams, and anecdotes, solidifying the connection that had begun to flourish during their collaboration on the drama and at MAMA.

The setting allowed for genuine interactions, unburdened by the external pressures of fame. Away from the spotlight, they could revel in the joy of camaraderie, discovering shared interests and quirks that transcended their roles as artists. The shared laughter, the ease with which conversations flowed, hinted at a bond that went beyond the constraints of the public gaze.

As the day unfolded, the secret meeting became a sanctuary where friendships deepened, and the foundation for a lasting connection was laid. The Boyz, each a distinct personality within the group, welcomed (Y/n) into their circle with open arms, and (Y/n) found herself embraced not just as a soulmate but as a cherished friend.

The break provided the perfect backdrop for this clandestine gathering—a chapter in their shared story that unfolded away from the glare of cameras and public scrutiny. In the warmth of their shared laughter and the genuine exchanges that took place, (Y/n) and The Boyz discovered the beauty of friendship that could thrive in the quiet moments, away from the orchestrated chaos of the entertainment industry.

Underneath the soft glow of fairy lights, Sangyeon and (Y/n) found themselves strolling through a quaint garden. The air was filled with the delicate scent of blooming flowers, and as they meandered through the winding paths, Sangyeon gently took (Y/n)'s hand in his. Their fingers intertwined naturally, and without saying a word, they reveled in the tranquility of the moment, basking in the shared warmth of their connection.

On a quiet rooftop overlooking the city, Jacob and (Y/n) sat side by side, their laughter blending with the distant hum of the urban landscape. As the evening breeze played with (Y/n)'s hair, Jacob's gaze met hers, and in that unspoken exchange, the world around them seemed to fade. With a tender smile, he reached for her hand, intertwining their fingers as they shared stories and dreams against the backdrop of the city lights.

In the soft glow of candlelight, Younghoon and (Y/n) found themselves sharing a quiet dinner. The ambiance was serene, and as their eyes met, a subtle understanding passed between them. Younghoon reached across the table, his fingers delicately tracing circles on (Y/n)'s hand. In that intimate exchange, time seemed to slow, and the flickering candles bore witness to the unspoken connection that continued to deepen between them.

Beneath the canopy of twinkling stars, Hyunjae and (Y/n) sat by a crackling bonfire. The warmth mirrored the connection between them, and as they exchanged playful banter, Hyunjae couldn't resist reaching out to gently brush a strand of hair from (Y/n)'s face. Their eyes locked, and in that fleeting moment, the crackling flames seemed to echo the warmth blossoming between their hearts.

On a moonlit beach, Juyeon and (Y/n) found solace in the gentle lull of the waves. The sand beneath their feet felt cool, and as Juyeon extended his hand, a silent invitation passed between them. Their barefoot steps created imprints in the sand, and with the rhythmic sound of the ocean as their backdrop, they danced under the moonlight, a serene and intimate moment etched in the canvas of the night.

Amidst the soft melodies of a private acoustic performance, Kevin and (Y/n) shared a quiet corner of a cozy venue. As the music wrapped around them, Kevin's eyes held an unspoken promise. With a gentle touch, he cupped (Y/n)'s cheek, his thumb tracing a gentle path. The world faded away, leaving only the tender notes of the guitar and the shared heartbeat of a moment steeped in quiet intimacy.

In the heart of a bustling city, Chanhee and (Y/n) found refuge in a rooftop garden, a hidden oasis above the urban chaos. Surrounded by lush greenery, Chanhee's eyes held a soft warmth as he handed (Y/n) a single flower. With a bashful smile, he tucked it behind her ear, a subtle gesture that spoke volumes in the language of shared secrets and unspoken feelings.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, Changmin and (Y/n) found themselves in a quiet bookstore, surrounded by the comforting scent of old books. The hushed atmosphere invited a sense of intimacy. Changmin, with a twinkle in his eyes, handed (Y/n) a book—a shared favorite from his collection. Their fingers brushed in the exchange, a gentle reminder that sometimes, love could be found in the simple act of sharing a story.

In a playful escape to an amusement park, Haknyeon and (Y/n) found themselves atop the Ferris wheel, the city lights stretching out beneath them. With a lighthearted grin, Haknyeon reached for (Y/n)'s hand, intertwining their fingers. The world below became a blur as they ascended into the night sky, their laughter dancing on the breeze—a carefree moment etched against the backdrop of twinkling lights.

In the serenity of a lakeside cabin, Sunwoo and (Y/n) found refuge from the demands of the world. The crackling fireplace cast a warm glow, and as Sunwoo strummed a gentle melody on his guitar, (Y/n) leaned against him. The quiet notes resonated in the cozy space, creating a haven where their souls connected through the shared language of music and unspoken emotions.

On a secluded balcony overlooking the city, Eric and (Y/n) found themselves wrapped in the soothing ambiance of a quiet night. The city lights below sparkled like a sea of stars, and with a gentle touch, Eric draped a soft blanket around (Y/n)'s shoulders. As they leaned against the railing, the world below seemed to disappear, leaving only the two of them—partners in a moment of quiet intimacy that transcended the bounds of ordinary romance.

The tranquility that (Y/n) and The Boyz had cherished in the private moments they shared was abruptly shattered when unauthorized pictures of their time together surfaced. The images, captured within the sanctuary of The Boyz's apartment, ignited a storm of controversies that swept through social media and news outlets. The invasion of their privacy fueled public discontent, and the narrative surrounding their friendship and bond as soulmates took an unexpected and unwarranted turn.

The public, hungry for sensationalism, expressed their displeasure at what they perceived as an intrusion into the personal lives of both (Y/n) and The Boyz. The comments sections became a battleground of opinions, with some condemning the breach of privacy, while others indulged in speculative discussions and criticisms.

The Boyz, known for their close-knit bond with each other and (Y/n), found themselves grappling with the unwanted attention. The camaraderie that had been celebrated just months ago was now scrutinized and distorted by public perception. (Y/n), too, faced the brunt of the controversy, as her genuine connection with The Boyz was overshadowed by the invasive snapshots that had made their way into the public domain.

The joint statement from (Y/n)'s and The Boyz's respective companies aimed to set the record straight, revealing the profound connection that bound them together—soulmates. The revelation of their shared destiny shed light on the authenticity of their relationship, turning the narrative away from invasive speculations to the undeniable force of fate that had brought them together.

The statement emphasized the importance of respecting personal boundaries and understanding the impact of invasive media coverage on artists. It called for empathy and acknowledgment of the unique connection shared by (Y/n) and The Boyz, urging the public to view their relationship with the same admiration and respect that soulmates inherently deserve.

For a portion of the general public, the acknowledgment of their soulmate bond transformed the narrative, adding a layer of beauty and depth to the relationship between (Y/n) and The Boyz. The realization that fate had intricately woven their destinies together resonated with many, fostering a newfound appreciation for the genuine connection that existed beyond the lens of public scrutiny.

However, as is often the case in the world of celebrities, a segment of the public remained resistant to change. Some individuals continued to direct hate and criticism towards (Y/n) and The Boyz, seemingly unaffected by the revelation of their soulmate bond. The dichotomy in public opinion underscored the complexities of navigating fame, personal relationships, and the constant gaze of an audience.

In the face of both support and adversity, (Y/n) and The Boyz stood united, finding strength in the shared understanding of their soulmate connection. The journey they embarked on together, from the serenity of private moments to the turbulent seas of public controversy, became a testament to the resilience of genuine connections in the face of external pressures.

The revelation of (Y/n) and The Boyz as soulmates ignited a fervor among their dedicated fanbases, with Deobis and (Y/n)'s fans eager for interactions that showcased the genuine bond between them. However, the intensity of the requests, including demands for displays of physical affection such as kissing, raised ethical concerns.

Both (Y/n)'s and The Boyz's agencies, recognizing the importance of maintaining respect for personal boundaries, released statements urging fans to appreciate the soulmate connection without pressuring the artists into intimate displays for public consumption. The agencies emphasized the need for a healthy and respectful fandom culture, where the artists' personal lives could be cherished without crossing the line into invasive requests.

Despite the agencies' pleas, the demands persisted on social media platforms. Some fans, in their enthusiasm and desire to see the depth of the soulmate connection, inadvertently contributed to an environment that pushed the boundaries of privacy and respect.

In response, (Y/n), The Boyz, and their agencies maintained a delicate balance, continuing to share glimpses of their relationship and collaborations in a way that celebrated their connection without compromising their personal boundaries. They reinforced the idea that soulmate connections were rooted in a deep understanding and shared journey, transcending the need for explicit public displays.

Navigating the delicate balance between fan expectations and personal privacy, (Y/n) and The Boyz found themselves at the center of a unique situation, where the genuine appreciation of their soulmate bond was sometimes overshadowed by the demands of an enthusiastic yet boundary-pushing fandom. The journey to strike this balance became a testament to the complexities of navigating fame and personal connections within the ever-evolving landscape of the entertainment industry.

A candid snapshot captured Juyeon enveloping (Y/n) in a warm embrace backstage after a successful joint performance. The genuine smiles on their faces radiated a shared joy, and the image quickly became a symbol of the affectionate camaraderie between them.

During a casual stroll through a park, Hyunjae and (Y/n) were photographed walking hand-in-hand. The simple yet heartwarming gesture showcased a connection that extended beyond the stage, resonating with fans who appreciated the authenticity of their friendship.

A video snippet from a behind-the-scenes moment at a music show revealed The Boyz surrounding (Y/n) in a spontaneous group hug. Laughter echoed as they playfully squeezed in, creating a heartwarming tableau that fans couldn't help but gush over on social media.

Changmin was spotted offering (Y/n) his hand to help her navigate a slightly uneven surface during an outdoor event. The small but chivalrous act became a viral sensation, highlighting the caring dynamics within their friendship.

In a lighthearted moment during a variety show appearance, Sunwoo playfully stole (Y/n)'s hat and placed it atop his own head. The teasing banter and infectious laughter that ensued quickly became a favorite among fans, showcasing the playful dynamics within the group.

On (Y/n)'s birthday, Jacob took to social media to share a heartfelt message accompanied by a picture of them sharing a laugh. The sincerity of his words and the captured moment of joy became a viral sensation, with fans celebrating the warmth of their friendship.

During a live performance, Sangyeon was captured giving (Y/n) an encouraging smile from across the stage as they shared a meaningful duet. The genuine expression of support resonated with fans, symbolizing the deep connection they had forged through their shared artistic endeavors.

In a quiet moment backstage, Younghoon was seen offering (Y/n) a reassuring squeeze of her hand before a crucial live interview. The quiet support and connection shared in that simple touch touched the hearts of fans, who admired the camaraderie between them.

A fun-filled video showed Chanhee engaging in playful banter with (Y/n) during a variety show appearance. Their easygoing dynamic and infectious laughter created a delightful atmosphere that resonated with fans, highlighting the carefree and enjoyable moments they shared.

A snippet from a special live performance captured Kevin and (Y/n) engaging in a heartfelt duet. The chemistry between their voices and the genuine smiles they exchanged became a viral sensation, with fans expressing admiration for the seamless collaboration between the soloist and The Boyz.

A candid moment backstage captured Haknyeon engaging in playful antics with (Y/n), showcasing their lighthearted friendship. The shared laughter and carefree gestures became a viral sensation, offering fans a glimpse into the joyous dynamics within The Boyz and (Y/n)'s interactions.

In a competitive game during a variety show, Eric was spotted cheering enthusiastically for (Y/n), embodying the spirit of camaraderie and friendly competition. The genuine encouragement and shared excitement became a favorite among fans, emphasizing the supportive dynamics within the group.

These moments, ranging from sincere gestures of support to playful interactions, contributed to the endearing narrative of (Y/n) and The Boyz's friendship. As these instances went viral on social media, fans celebrated the authenticity and warmth that defined the bond shared between the soloist and each member of The Boyz.

[zapreportsblog]

A New Future Beckons

➥ summary: Miguel never thought he would be a father again

➥ fluff

➥ one shot

In the sprawling metropolis of New York City, a sense of anticipation filled the air as Miguel O'Hara, the futuristic hero known as Spider-Man 2099, embarked on a new chapter of his life. As he stood beside his wife (Y/N), a mixture of emotions swirled within him—fear and excitement, uncertainty and hope. For within (Y/N)'s womb, a new life blossomed, and Miguel was about to become a father once again. This is the story of how Miguel navigated the complexities of impending fatherhood, balancing the weight of his responsibilities as a hero with the joy and trepidation of welcoming a new life into the world.

As the news of (Y/N)'s pregnancy settled upon them, Miguel's heart raced with a blend of emotions. Memories of his own upbringing and the tumultuous nature of his life as Spider-Man 2099 flooded his mind. Would he be able to provide the stable, loving environment his child deserved? Would he be able to shield them from the perils and dangers that came with his alter ego? The weight of these questions bore down upon him, a constant reminder of the responsibility that lay ahead.

Yet, amidst the apprehension, a wave of joy surged through Miguel's veins. He remembered the wonder of holding his firstborn, the pure love that emanated from their tiny form. Becoming a father had forever changed him, grounding him in the profound connection between generations. He longed to experience that once again, to witness the miracle of new life unfolding before his eyes.

Together, Miguel and (Y/N) embarked on the journey of pregnancy—the doctor's visits, the preparations, and the moments of anticipation. Each step brought them closer to the reality of becoming parents, and with every passing day, Miguel's heart swelled with an indescribable mix of love and trepidation.

As (Y/N)'s belly grew, so did Miguel's connection with their unborn child. He would often place a hand on her abdomen, feeling the gentle kicks and movements—a reminder that life was flourishing within. In those moments, a sense of awe washed over him, as he contemplated the miracle of creation and the immense responsibility he carried as a guardian of this new life.

But alongside the excitement, doubts lingered in the depths of Miguel's mind. Would he be able to balance his duties as Spider-Man 2099 with the demands of fatherhood? The world was a dangerous place, and the weight of protecting it from the shadows threatened to pull him away from the precious moments of raising his child.

However, Miguel soon realized that being a hero and a father need not be mutually exclusive. He saw the potential to inspire his child with tales of courage, resilience, and the belief in making the world a better place. The lessons he had learned throughout his journey as Spider-Man 2099 could serve as a guiding light for his child's own path, imparting a legacy of justice, compassion, and the pursuit of a better future.

In the bustling city of New York, the air was charged with a sense of anticipation and nervous excitement. Inside the sterile walls of the hospital, Miguel O'Hara, the legendary Spider-Man 2099, stood beside his wife (Y/N), their hands tightly clasped. The moment they had been eagerly awaiting had arrived—it was time for (Y/N) to give birth to their long-awaited child. Little did they know, however, that destiny had a surprise in store for them. This is the story of how Miguel's world was forever transformed when (Y/N) gave birth to twins—Gabriella and Isabella—an unexpected blessing that filled their lives with twice the love, joy, and challenges.

As (Y/N) was wheeled into the delivery room, Miguel's heart pounded in his chest, a blend of emotions flooding his being. The room buzzed with the hushed whispers of doctors and nurses, their reassuring presence providing a semblance of calm amidst the flurry of activity. Miguel stood by (Y/N)'s side, offering words of encouragement and support, his love and admiration for her unwavering.

The room seemed to hold its breath as the labor pains intensified, each wave bringing them closer to the moment of arrival. Miguel's eyes never left (Y/N)'s face, their gazes locked in a silent bond—a shared understanding of the journey they were about to undertake together.

And then, in a crescendo of pain and triumph, the first cries of their child filled the room. Miguel's heart soared as he caught sight of their newborn daughter, Gabriella. The world seemed to fade away as he held her in his arms, marveling at her delicate features and the profound sense of love that washed over him.

With trembling hands, Miguel placed a gentle kiss on Gabriella's forehead, whispering words of love and welcome. In that sacred moment, he knew that his life would forever be intertwined with hers—a bond that transcended the ordinary, forged through love and the shared connection of family.

As the doctors and nurses attended to (Y/N) and Gabriella, a hum of anticipation filled the room once again. Little did Miguel know that destiny had an extraordinary surprise in store for them. Another life awaited, eager to make its grand entrance into the world.

Minutes later, a second cry pierced the air, and Miguel's heart skipped a beat. He turned to see another tiny bundle in the arms of a nurse—a second daughter, Isabella. Tears of joy streamed down Miguel's face as he took her in his arms, her presence radiating with a unique sense of wonder and possibility.

In that moment, Miguel realized that their family had been blessed with not one, but two miracles. Gabriella and Isabella—two beautiful souls who would forever hold a special place in his heart. The room seemed to overflow with love, joy, and a sense of infinite possibility as Miguel held his daughters, their tiny hands grasping his fingers.

In the days that followed, Miguel and (Y/N) navigated the uncharted territory of parenting twins—a journey filled with sleepless nights, endless diaper changes, and moments of pure wonder. Gabriella and Isabella brought a renewed sense of purpose and meaning to their lives, their presence creating a symphony of laughter and chaos that filled their home.

As Miguel watched his daughters grow, he marveled at their individuality—the unique qualities and personalities that began to emerge. Gabriella, with her vibrant spirit and insatiable curiosity, and Isabella, with her quiet grace and thoughtful nature. They were two sides of the same coin—forever connected by blood, love, and an unbreakable bond.

As the years passed, Miguel embraced the challenges and joys that came with raising twins. He discovered the delicate art of balancing his responsibilities as Spider-Man 2099 with the demands of fatherhood. It was a constant juggling act, a dance of duty and love that shaped him into a better man—a man his daughters could look up to with pride.

In Gabriella and Isabella, Miguel witnessed the power of love, resilience, and the unbreakable spirit that resided within each of them. They became his inspiration, his reason to continue fighting for a better world—a legacy of hope he hoped to impart upon them.