#shut up cal you fool

[calamitaswrath]

I have feelings about fantasy worlds

[ID: The "shoutout to women, gotta one of my favourite genders" meme edited to say "shoutout to unconventional fantasy world shapes, gotta be one of my favourite settings. I fw individual fantastical areas too if anyone was wondering". Several drawings and screencaps are edited in, such as the Discworld, Laputa from the Ghibli film Castle in the Sky, and the titans Bionis and Mechonis from Xenoblade Chronicles in the upper half. The lower half of the meme has has screencaps from Satorl Marsh and Valak Mountain from Xenoblade Chronicles and Sylvalum from Xenoblade Chronicles X edited in. End ID.]

[lovesosweeet]

KNOW IT ALL x THE BAND CAMINO

part 3

a calum hood songfic

read part 1 / 2

two years ago

Michael’s birthday had come and gone, but the whole thing had been planned by his fiancée. He loved her and he loved the weekend that she’d planned for them, but he wanted a proper weekend of being an idiot with his friends, rather than being on his best behavior and having a picture-perfect weekend that Crystal could share on social media. 

Cal could tell that Mike wanted a chance to be a blubbering idiot for a night or two. He knew that they’d all have to grow up eventually and stop doing the dumb shit at some point, but this year wasn’t the year that they grew up. They all knew it, but Cal was the only one who took action.

He booked an AirBNB in downtown Montreal and found a ski resort about 30 minutes outside of the city to spend a day or two on the slopes, knowing they’d spend the better part of the weekend drunk and acting like fools with each other at dive bars and singing karaoke. 

The place he booked was huge, so he told Michael to invite anybody he wanted. Because it was a bit last minute, not a ton of people were able to join. It ended up being the band, Roy, Brian, Tillie, and Tillie’s guitarist that they’ve all befriended over the past year and a half, Marco. 

Even though they were all flying in from LA, they all arrived at different times of the day. Cal had flown in last night to make sure everything was ready to go. He stocked up on booze, went grocery shopping, and scouted out the ski resort to make sure it would be suitable for a few “celebrities” to spend time at. 

Mike and Tillie had flown in together, of course, and it made Cal jealous. He’d been a sucker for Tillie since the night they met, but she was either entirely oblivious to it or simply uninterested. He hoped she was just oblivious, but he tried not to figure out which it was, too scared to truly consider the possibility that she wasn’t into him at all. 

Tillie’s contact photo lights up his screen as she calls him, and he answers instantly. He hopes it comes off as just being expectant of them, rather than someone who’d pick up as soon as humanly possible whenever she calls. Both are true. 

“Hi, Matilda,” he answers, smirking at the use of her full name, knowing it would make her annoyed. Tillie was fun to tease, but only if you weren’t faint of heart. You had to be ready and willing to be met with twice the amount of insult that you doled out if you wanted to talk shit to Matilda Beckett. 

“Shut the fuck up, Thomas.”

“Nice to hear your voice, too,” he dryly says. 

“We’re here. Come let us in or we’re gonna go have fun without you.”

“Coming,” Calum answers, already halfway to the door. He wants to spend the whole weekend by Tillie’s side.

Calum makes his way to the front door of the condo and then rides the elevator down to the lobby, where he finds Michael and Tillie dressed in nearly identical outfits. Both are wearing black joggers with black sneakers, along with black hoodies layered over turtlenecks. Tillie’s currently blue hair is partly hidden under a red beanie, whereas Mike’s blonde hair is topped off with a black baseball cap. 

The only other difference in their outfits is the white satin sash across Michael’s body that says “bride to be.” 

“What the fuck is that?” Calum asks through laughter, his eyes focused on the sash. 

“This idiot isn’t planning on having a bachelor party, so I’m forcing him to make this a bachelorette weekend.” Tillie says it so matter of factly, as if Calum should’ve known the reasoning without her explaining it. She’s already stepping into the elevator with her black suitcase rolling behind her and Michael following suit. 

They ride up to the floor they’re staying on and while they walk, Michael is on the phone with Crystal, talking about some “emergency” with their wedding planning. Tillie side eyes Calum, trying not to laugh at how little Mike obviously cares about the satin tablecloths Crystal wanted that are unavailable. 

Michael retreats to the balcony when they get to the AirBNB, leaving Tillie and Calum in the living room with their luggage. Tillie reaches into her hoodie pocket and pulls out a baggie of colorful candy.

“Brought eddies. Want one?” She asks and pulls out a small gummy to offer it to him. 

Calum eyes the candy. “Maybe later? Once everyone is here.��� 

Tillie rolls her eyes. “You’re no fun.” She doesn’t say anything else before she heads toward the bar cart in the corner. She grabs the bottle of Casamigos from the top shelf, pops the lid off, and then takes a few gulps of the tequila. Wordlessly, she holds the bottle toward Calum. 

He’s already turned her down once, and he fears that, if he turns her down again, she’ll stop offering things. Thus, he takes the bottle from her and swallows a mouthful before handing the bottle back to Tillie. 

She’s smiling at him, a glint of cockiness in her eyes. “Didn’t expect you to be one to give into peer pressure so easily, Hood.” 

Truthfully, he wasn’t, but something about Tillie has him completely willing to do whatever she says. He’d jump off a cliff if she told him to. 

“C’mon, Tills. You know me better than that. A shot of tequila is nothing for me.”

She raises an eyebrow and then holds the bottle back out to him. “Okay, then take another.”

Calum hesitates before doing what she says.

He’s practically squinting under her intense gaze, her blue eyes piercing into his skin in a way that’s painfully pleasant to Calum. He’s grateful when Mike reenters the room, hanging up his call with Crystal.

“Okay, crisis averted. I’d like to go get a beer and a snack, if you guys are up for it,” Michael says. He notes the bottle of tequila in Calum’s hands but doesn’t question it. When Tillie is involved, substances are involved, and she’s known for being a bad influence.

Calum doesn’t get a chance to speak before Tillie does.

“Whatever the bride-to-be-slash-birthday-baby wants!” Tillie cheers.

Michael rolls his eyes. “Tillie, you’re younger than me. Why do you always call me a baby?”

Tillie smirks her classic smirk that makes something in Calum’s chest tighten. “Because you act like one. You’d all be so fucking lost without each other like babies are without their moms. Don’t worry, Mike. It’s cute.” 

Calum watches as Michael’s eyes roll again.

“Don’t test me, Matilda. This is my weekend, remember?”

Tillie cackles and shakes her head. “Yep, I know. Bachelorette trip in Montreal. Let me get changed and then we can head out?”

Calum and Michael wait in the living room while Tillie goes into a bedroom to get dressed and freshen up. Calum uses the time to text the rest of the gang for the weekend how to get into and out iof the AirBNB and shares his location with them so they can find the trio wherever they end up. 

When Tillie re-enters the room, she’s still wearing all black, but this time she’s wearing a long sleeve, black corset style top that has the tiny tattoos on her collarbones exposed, and tight black jeans cover her legs. She’s kept on her black sneakers and taken off the beanie, her hair now just laying straight over her shoulders. She threw on some makeup but not a ton, but, if you ask Calum, she’s the most beautiful girl he’s ever seen.

“Close your mouth, Thomas. Let’s go.” She walks up to him and lightly smacks his face, headed straight for the door without looking back. 

Michael snickers as Calum blushes, both of them following the sassy girl out of the condo once more. 

Countless shots of tequila, beers, and a few bites of Tillie’s edibles later, the whole crew is now in Montreal and well intoxicated at a dive bar. Tillie had coordinated with Ashton to bring more “bachelorette” items with him, so everyone is now wearing satin pink sashes that say “bride tribe” to match Michael’s. Some of the boys are wearing sparkly pink headbands that have penises attached like antennae while Michael has a veil clipped onto his baseball hat. They all look like fools, but Calum is happier than he’s been in a long time. 

Tillie is standing on a booth bench with Luke while they scream along to “Everytime We Touch” by Cascada. Calum is just staring, the weed gummy hitting him hard and he feels like his head is floating, smiling contently at the girl he’s been crushing on, hard, for so long. 

“Tommy!” Tillie yells. She’s incredibly high, but not too drunk. Drunk Tillie is talkative, whereas High Tillie is smiley and goofy. She’s had a cheesy grin on her face for the last 30 minutes. 

Calum waddles over to her, feeling like he’s wading through a pool. He used to hate that she almost exclusively calls him by his middle name, but now he loves it. She has a nickname for him, even if it’s not all that creative. 

“What’s up, Tills?” He asks. He barely has to look up at her, even though she’s standing on the bench. She’s so tiny. 

“If you’re gonna stare, you might as well do it up close,” she says, only loud enough for him to hear her. It makes his heart thud quick and hard in his chest and he blushes, but he doesn’t look away from her blue eyes. 

Tillie holds her hands out to him, offering to pull him up to stand next to her and Luke. He takes them, feeling on cloud nine because of the way she just flirted with him. When Calum is standing with Tillie, she doesn’t let go of his hands and moves them around while she continues to scream the lyrics of the song.

Calum is over the moon at the physical contact and relishes in the moment, singing and dancing along with her. The bar plays “Dear Maria Count Me In” next, then “What’s My Age Again,” and then, as soon as the opening notes to “Sweet Caroline” start playing, Tillie scrunches up her face in disappointment. 

“I’m not white enough for this shit,” she says, craning her neck to make sure Calum hears the words she says. “Wanna go to the patio?”

Calum, bewildered by her suggestion that they step outside, just the two of them, just nods quickly. “Yeah, sure, that works.”

She looks up to him with her eyes wide and a smile tugging at her lips. “Go get me a PBR and meet me out there?” 

Once more, he’s stunned, but wordlessly nods, stepping down from the bench before helping Tillie down to the floor. She mumbles something along the lines of ‘see you out there’ before she disappears, and Cal hurries to the bar to order her beer and another for himself. He also orders a shot for himself, needing an extra boost of liquid courage.

As he’s walking out toward the patio, Ashton stops him. “Where are you going?”

Cal’s cheeks flush. “Tillie and I are going to the patio.”

Ashton widens his eyes in surprise. “Oh, that sounds nice, I’ll join—“

Calum cuts his best friend off with an expression that begs him to shut up. 

Ashton then smiles and shakes his head. “Fine, I’ll give you your moment.” 

“I’ve only been trying for two fucking years,” Calum mumbles while grabbing the two beer cans from the bartender. “It’s under Hood,” he say to the bartender, who nods. 

“Good luck, Cal. She’s a tough nut to crack sometimes.”

Cal glares at Ashton. “No shit.” 

He’s walking out toward the patio before Ashton gets a chance to say anything else, a smile reforming on his lips when he sees Tillie outside, taking selfies with the city lights behind her. 

“Need a camera man?” Calum asks as he approaches her. She rolls her eyes and takes the beer from him, gulping down a few sips. 

“Nah, just wanted to post a picture to my close friends story.” 

Calum nods. He sips from his own beer can. It’s not silent, since he can still hear the music inside, but now that it’s just him and Tillie, he doesn’t know what to say. She makes him so nervous, but he’s so excited to have her to himself, even if it’s just for a moment. 

“Mike’s really glad you threw this whole thing together,” Tillie says, filling the air with conversation easily. 

Calum smiles. “He’d do it for me, so it’s only appropriate.” He gazes at Tillie, noting that her hair is now pulled up into a ponytail, a little sweaty from her dancing and being surrounded by so many warm bodies. Her lipstick is faded, almost completely gone, and her eyes are tinted pink. “I’m sure he loves the bachelorette shit you’re pulling, even though he’s being grumpy about it.” 

Tillie smirks at him. “Yeah, well, can’t let you steal the best friend title from me.”

“Excuse me! You stole it from me first!”

“Can’t help it that I’m cooler than you, Calum.” 

Calum frowns. She called him Calum, not Tommy and not Thomas and not Hood. He can’t disagree with her though. She’s far cooler than he’ll ever be. 

“Maybe we can just share?” He asks. 

Tillie smiles. “I don’t share, Thomas.” 

Something comes over Calum and the words he says shock even himself. “You’d never have to share me, Matilda.” When he realizes what he’s just said, his whole face turns bright red. 

Tillie doesn’t say anything, she just nods. She keeps drinking her beer, but when she pulls the can away from her mouth, Calum realizes she’s smiling.

“You know,” she starts, “I thought you were scared of me for a very long time.”

Calum laughs. “I was. I mean, hell, I am.”

She grins. It’s a wicked grin that makes her eyes sparkle. “Good.”

Calum snorts before he and Tillie both fall into a fit of giggles. 

“It’s a good scared, though, Tills. Makes me want to talk to you even more, even if it scares me.” 

Tillie’s expression turns unreadable and she keeps sipping from her beer can. Her eyes focus on the metal tab, and her fingers follow suit, fiddling with the small piece of metal. Eventually, she sighs.

“I feel like you have me on this pedestal, Cal. And I haven’t earned it.”

Has Tillie always known I’ve had a crush? Calum thinks.

“I don’t have you on a pedestal, Tillie. I just…” he trails off. He wants to say he’s practically in love with her. He can’t say that, so he just doesn’t finish his sentence. 

She shakes her head. “However that sentence ends, I don’t deserve it.”

Calum is bewildered. Tillie, the confident, snarky, sassy girl that he’s spent countless days with, is insecure. How had he not seen that? How could she be insecure when she’s so… Tillie? Tillie is loud. She’s sure of herself. She doesn’t give a shit. She does what she wants and doesn’t care what anyone else thinks.

As if she can read his mind, Tillie continues. “I’ve done some fucked up shit, Calum. You’re too… nice for me.” 

He raises his eyebrows. “I’ve done some fucked up shit, too, Tillie,” he counters.

Tillie snorts a laugh. “Yeah, sure.” 

Calum shakes his head. “Tills, we’ve all made mistakes.”

Her lips press together, her mouth forming a straight line. She debates dumping all of her past on him, right then and there. She won’t lie. She’s wanted to pursue Calum. He was kind and funny and she’s never slighted the fact that she found him incredibly attractive. She just thought he was way too good for him. He should’ve been with a person with way less baggage than she. 

“I’ve made too many big ones, Cal. Far more than it takes to disqualify me from being a good person.” 

Calum wants to scream. He doesn’t care if she thinks she’s a good person. He knows she is. She’s a good friend, a wonderful companion. She’s thoughtful and he thinks she’s the funniest person he’s ever met. Her confidence is irritatingly high, but he loves that about her. It’s a quality he wishes he had. 

“I don’t believe you.”

Tillie rolls her eyes. “Whether or not you believe me, Cal, it’s true.”

Calum takes the chance to roll his eyes back at her. “I don’t believe you. I have zero confidence that it’s true, Tillie. Your heart is too big.” 

She has to hold back from pouting out her lower lip. “I’ve fucked up, big time, too many times—“

“Try me,” Cal says, cutting her off 

“What?”

“Try me. Tell me one of these big bad things you’ve done and I’ll tell you if it makes you a bad person.”

Tillie looks like she’s on the brink of tears, and Calum suddenly feels horrible for pushing her to this point. She takes a big, deep breath before she speaks again.

“No judgment?” She asks. Her voice is smaller and more shy than he’s ever heard it.

Cal shakes his head. “I could never judge you, Tills.” 

She takes a deep breath. “My sister got kicked out of our house because of me.” 

When Calum doesn’t say anything, she takes it as a cue to keep talking.

“My parents found a stash of weed in our bathroom. It was mine. We both knew it was mine, but I was young and dumb and I said it was hers. I found a picture of her smoking with friends on her ‘finsta’ and showed it to my parents as proof. I didn’t think they’d kick her out. I thought they’d be pissed, ground her maybe, but I didn’t think she’d be kicked out.k” 

She lets the words sink in for Calum, but he seems unfazed.

“And you were how old?”

“Like 15, but—“

“Tillie, you were young and stupid. You clearly regret it. Sure, it wasn’t a good thing to do, but it doesn’t make you a bad person.”

Tillie still looks upset, but she puts on a front and smiles. She’s good at faking it, and it makes him wonder how many times she’s done this around him and he hasn’t detected it.

“I haven’t talked to her since the night they threw her out,” she confesses. She’s staring at her beer can. 

“Have you tried to reach out and apologize?”

“She calls me like every other month and leaves a voicemail. I just don’t answer.”

Calum’s eyebrows knit together in confusion. “Why don’t you answer?”

“I’m scared.” 

“Tills, it sounds like she just misses her sister if she’s still calling you regularly,” Calum tells her, trying to reassure the girl that she has no reason to be scared. 

Tillie doesn’t say anything in response. Her eyes stay trained on her beer. Calum wants to hug her or hold her hand, but he doesn’t know how she’d react, so he keeps his hands to himself. He’s already making leaps and bounds in his quest to pursue her by simply being alone with her. He doesn’t even care that it’s cold as shit outside. He’s with Tillie and she’s telling him things. 

“I’ve never told anyone that,” she says to break the silence.

“That you’re scared?”

“No. Well, yes, but the whole thing. I’ve never told anyone what I did.”

Calum tries not to lose his shit. She trusts him. She trusts him enough to tell him something she’s never told anyone. 

“It’s not good to keep everything bottled up, Tills,” he says. “Thank you for telling me.” 

Tillie laughs quietly and shakes her head. “You’re just so… nice.” 

He raises his eyebrows in response. “Thank you?”

She giggles then, and Calum is happy to hear the sweet sound. He’s not used to her being anything but lively and confident. The insecure and scared girl he just saw for the first time wasn’t the Tillie he knows. 

“You’re so soft. I feel like I’ll break you if I look at you the wrong way.” 

“I’d let you break me any day of the week, Matilda.” 

That must’ve been the right answer because before he knows it, Tillie’s kissing him, her hands tangled in his curls. He’s taken aback but entirely happy about it, kissing her back instantly. 

He has no idea what he’s just gotten himself into.

read next part

[faerunsbest]

Rolans 1st love

okay i hurt my own feelings.

here you go.

on ao3

Requited but unlucky

Prior to the grove Rolans love life was sparse,thin and unfortunately shallow. His first introduction to attraction at all had gone sour, but he told himself he was fooled by a pretty face and hadn’t bothered to look deeper. Which was true and left him annoyed every time he thought of it. 

At this time he was half a year from 15 and struggling through both employment and his own education…none of it compared to all the work that needed doing at home. Everything it was everything and it was entirely the most important part of himself. Running out of work every day to hurry several blocks away so he would never be late to pick up his siblings from the school house. Every day they would tumble out the doors and know exactly where he would be waiting for them. Every day he would take their books and bags and carry them for them while they both rambled about their day, through the market where he would stop for a few basic items, flour grains maybe eggs depending on the weight of his wallet.

    No more time could be spent at the library, there just wasn’t time without his mother there, instead on his day off work he would pop over to a local bookstore and look about to see if he could afford anything. Sometimes at the register, the cashier would smile at him in a funny lopsided way. Someone who looked not much older than himself.

 A boy again, with white blonde hair tucked back into a low, short tail. A few loose strands always falling by his pointed ears, a  thin pink line over the right side of his mouth. The scar of cosmetic surgery to fix his cleft palate. Rolan tried not to pay attention to the shades of lavender his cheeks tended to turn when they talked for a while, though it was difficult not to notice.

As always when the place was slow, Rolan stayed to chat a little longer than he should, he couldn’t help himself when he smiled back at the cashier whose name he still hadn’t asked for. Another niche joke and he was sure would fall flat and suddenly, Rolans heart skipped a beat when the cashier snorted in response, immediately putting his hand over his mouth and nose. Face flaring shades of pastel violets as he looked away. 

A cough was heard behind him,  Rolans grimaced realizing someone was now waiting to pay, he waved hurriedly and shuffled out of the store. All the way down to the market Rolan smiled, he smiled so much his cheeks hurt. The smile stayed in place as he shopped about, gathering this and that for dinner. Always a bigger event on his days off and his siblings knew it. They looked forward all week to his full dinners, with a million tiny plates and spoons to serve this and that.

Back at the apartment, small and cramped still but now his mothers old room was his. He lined an entire wall with every book he could get his claws on and still searched for more where it could be afforded. The living room was small and minimally furnished, a simple sofa facing the fireplace, a small wood end table on one side of the sofa. He took the broom through the place from end to end, paying close attention to corners. Gently he took todays book and sat it on the end table, knowing he would read it to Cal and Lia after dinner. For a moment he paused to look at it and could only think of how embarrassed the cashier had been to laugh like that in front of him.

Again he was grinning like an idiot while he plucked an apron off its hook in the kitchen, he found himself humming while he prepared dough. Leaving it off to the side to rise when he began chopping up the market finds, rolling cubed beef in a layer of spices before throwing them into a pot to sear. As he cooked he continually tilted his head counting bells that went off in the distance, now satisfied. He placed lids on pots and a towel over the bread he pulled from the fireplace.  

Another set of bells tolled just as he shut and locked the apartment door, hurrying to the apartment entrance he paused, surprised when he found the cashier pushing the door open. For a moment they just stared at each other, the cashier's soft face shifted in color before he hurried to open the door for Rolan. 

“Um, I’m sorry about earlier.. It was a gross sound…”

Rolan felt his own face turning warm, he shrugged his shoulder as he stepped out.

“No, it was… kind of cute actually.”

He didn’t stop to see how it was received before stepping out and hurting off to collect his siblings at the schools door.

Later on the cashier looked out his door at a familiar noisy rumble coming up the hall, blinking in surprise at Rolan with his sharp smile. He was listening intently as his sibling ran small circles behind while they nattered about the day’s happenings. The cashier watched him hold the door open to let them in and felt his own chest flood with warmth as he realized what was happening.

Rolan was always so rushed and hurried because he was busy taking care of those kids. The cashier couldn't help but grin to himself at the image they made before he closed his own door and thought how that's the man who thought his strange laugh was…cute.

Perfectly unaware of his admirer, Rolan  readied the small dinner table for his sibling. He nodded and cheered for them when Lia announced that she had passed a surprise vocabulary test. Cal shared his own accomplishment  for the day, grinning when he realized his brother didn’t forget. Rolan knew of the test that had been scheduled and planned to celebrate, with a small cake for them. 

With so little good left, Rolan celebrated their every win. 

He tossed them in the bath to wash up while he cleaned the kitchen and brushed their hair when they were out and dry. He didn’t have to , they knew how but it was nice. Even cal sat still and read a page out loud from the day’s newest book while Rolan made sure to dry and brush his hair, trying it into a small tail when done. After everything was finished there, Rolan kicked up his feet on the sofa sitting comfortably across it. As he picked up the book, Cal and Lia scrambled to pile on top of him while he read out loud. It was the same every night and every night made the day feel worth it.

—

The week droned on and despite the cashiers best efforts to catch him alone it seemed that Rolan never did anything alone. He would go out to collect water and wash clothes in a community space, with his siblings tumbling about behind him. They sword fought with sticks much to his dismay. They went with him shopping, they went with him to collect housewares and pay bills. They hung on his arm while he talked with the landlord as he dropped off rent.  

As much as it got in the way of any chance to talk to him, the cashier was also incredibly endeared by it.  By the middle of the week he gave up and hoped to see Rolan on his day off.

Unfortunately when he went in for work he found a sign on the door notifying all customers the place was closed for the day. He grumbled all the way back to the apartment when he stopped out front to find Rolan with his sleeves rolled up to his elbows as he saw by a washing pool.

For a moment he froze as he watched him hold up a small pair of trousers and grimace at them.

“Hi there.”

Rolan blinked in surprise before turning around to face him, the cashier!

“Oh, hello…” he made a face before adding “I never asked your name…”

He smiled and pushed back that loose strand of hair.

“Kai, I’m kai.. Nice to ‘meet’ you..?”

“Ah, I’m Rolan.”

He said while bunching the pants up into a ball and pressing out as much water as he could. Without thought Rolan simply continued to wash clothes.

“Ah, don’t you usually work today?”

“Mm the store is closed apparently. Do you need any help?”

Rolan blinked again, surprised.

“You have a day off and you're gonna do laundry with me?”

Kai shrugged at him, putting a hand out for the pants while he looked over to a taut clothesline. Rather amiably Kai found ways to fill what could have been a rather awkward silence, he grinned beside himself Rolan laughed, bright and warm about something or another. Kai smiled and blurted out

“Ah you have such a nice laugh…it’s pretty.”

The moment after, they stared rather bashfully at each other before glancing away. Rolan spotted the clothesline and laughed again 

“You don’t do this very much do you?”

“Huh!?” Kai stared in shock realizing … It was the laundry. He never did these things so he’d done it wrong. Rolan laughed bright and cheerful before going and fixing it all. Now it was easy, laughing like this. They waited for the clothes to dry even though there certainly were other things for Rolan to do. The day droned on, bells marking its segments.  

Soon enough Kai was watching Rolan bring Cal and Lia home again, and the day went on and ended though tonight his face hurt from smiling, his gut ached from laughing and sleep was filled with bliss.

Rolan found himself especially playful as he dumped Cal and Lia back in the tub, he took a bowl and dunked it down in to raise up and spill waves of warm water over their heads. Peels of laughter filled the small place, bounced off the walls and left Rolan giddy. The house like this always felt like he was doing something right, all said and done he plopped a towel on their heads and ruffled them dry. 

Dinner today was heavy and filling,letting them doze off quickly for the evening. While they slept peacefully Rolan lay in bed smiling with his arms folded over his head. He tried desperately to stop his heart from racing as he lay there thinking about someone loving his laugh.

A day went by and Rolan waved through the shop window as he passed on his way to work. A new part of his daily routine on his way to work, it made the day bright seeing kai wave back, with that lopsided smile. Every day for the week, until it was his day off and Kai got to see him again. 

Every day, then a week, then another week and a month had gone by. Today Rolan had Kai in his kitchen stirring something or another since he didn’t seem to know how to do much else. Rolan teased him all the way through it, smiling at the way Kai seemed to turn bright at his words. 

He loved it. 

About to say something else, Rolan found himself silenced. Before he could register what happened kai pulled back, shock and terror on his face.

“I’m sorry I shouldn’t have done that I-”

Feeling emboldened, Rolan leaned down to return the kiss he’d been so unexpectedly given. They parted to stare at each other breathless and bashful. In the distance a bell tolled, reminding him he had to leave. Another giddy night passed. 

Something new was added rather gleefully to Rolan's routine. Sneaking out at night for just a moment, long enough to be given a kiss goodnight and hurry back. 

A day and a week and month would pass, playfully, romantically and painfully quick.

News became dire, people more harsh and suddenly Kai was looking at him miserably.

“What’s going on? What’s wrong ?!”

Not knowing what else to do he reached out and pulled Kai close, pressing his chin to the top of kais head.

“We’re leaving.”

Rolans eyes went wide, he pulled back just far enough to look at him and see a dam suddenly burst, tears spilling down Kai’s face. He struggled to breathe and held tightly onto Rolan.

“What do you mean- where are you going?!”

“Mum had to quit her job because of what's going on and.. Ap’pa says we have family in the dales so that’s where we might be going. He told us as soon as I got home…they already packed. We’re leaving right now and I- don’t want to!”

Rolan felt his eyes sting before his vision blurred and thick wet tears rolled down him. He thought about it, clenched his eyes hard. So hard it hurt and when he opened them little baubles of color filled his line of sight. He hugged Kai hard, pressed kisses all over his face before setting their foreheads together.

“It’s okay, it’s okay.. You gotta go.”

Kai can hear Rolan’s voice cracking as he speaks, trying to stay calm through the waves of misery threatening to overwhelm him. 

“What?!”

“Kai, your parents see danger… They have a way to keep you safe. I would run if I could.. I can't, so you must go. Go and be safe okay.”

“Rolan I-”

A kiss pressed firmly to his lips, heavy and wet. There wasn’t time he needed to leave and Rolan would be damned if he was the reason Kai didn’t get to run away. Gently he pushed Kai backward, his knees threatened to give out under him. He looked away, instead just pointing with a shaking hand to the place where he knew Kai’s parents were waiting for him..

A day, a week and month and the ache remained as the city began to fall apart. 

All this and there were no more giddy nights.

The quiet of the apartment settle under his ribcage and Rolan looked around, feeling a failure as the saddened expressions on his siblings became so common.

No more giddy nights.

[junowritings]

Hello. I was wondering if I could get a Baldurs Gate 3 match up?

Specifically with one of the men I am a gay transmasc man(only pronouns I don't use are she/her). I generally have a more masc style but even though I identify as trans masc I don't bind that often. I hate wearing dresses though. Like I hate them with a passion. I have autism, adhd, anxiety, and depression. I often love infodumping to close family and friends. I love cats and have 4 of them(they are all my babies). I love listening to those around me talk about their interests, and I, in turn, love to share my own interests. I am easily overstimulated, though, and can shut down equally as easily. I enjoy doing what's called parallel play where I and another person, we each do our own thing but still enjoy each other's company. I love singing and can play multiple instruments, including cello and piano. I get easily embarrassed when singing around those close to me, though. I am hypersensitive to most touch, sound, and smells. I'm currently unemployed due to my mental health issues but I one day would like to be a veterinarian technician. I am easily distracted and have a really bad memory(it's my adhd)

Sorry if I over shared, I just wanted to give you stuff to work with if that makes sense

That's no problem at all hun! Thanks for the info it was a big help in deciding who I think the best fit for you would be! Which is,,,

It’s almost fitting how well you and Rolan end up complementing one another.

Your love is kindled quietly at first, especially if it’s back at the Grove or the inn. Rolan’s dealing with personal struggles himself around that time especially in concern with his life and the lives of his family. And he’s certainly not blind to your own struggles either - catches glimpses of the days where even you are overwhelmed by the hands fate deals you. And yet you always keep moving forward, overcoming each day even when it feels as though the weight of the world upon your shoulders could suffocate. He’d be a fool not to realize that his feelings for you go far beyond mere respect.

PLEASE listen to this guy talk; he could talk for Faerun about his interests and pursuits if you’ll allow him the chance to. Of course Cal and Lia put up with his ramblings, and have for years - but they’re his siblings so every conversation is full of teasing grins and the ‘here he goes again’ to playfully remind him when he may have been getting carried away. It’s different with you. You’ve always been a willing ear, even when he’s admittedly been at his worst; providing a welcome confidant who seems to actually listen. He often teasingly bemoans that it took so long to finally find someone who appreciates his knowledge, a perfect actor of the furrowed brow and mock dismayed sigh that will have you grinning and rolling your eyes every time. But in all seriousness, Rolan deeply appreciates that you’re willing to indulge him in his thoughts and interests, a fact he often chides himself for not telling you more often.

Given how often you allow him to ramble it’s only fair that Rolan allows you the same - is what he says, but we both know damn well that he could listen to you talk about how paint dries and sit through the entire thing if that’s what interests you. He’s content to listen to you explain your current interests to him while he works and reorganizes - you’ll realize quickly he’s not one for sitting still for overlong if there’s something to keep his hands busy. Rest assured that Rolan’s always listening to you though, as any time you trail off or pause he’ll stop what he’s doing to encourage you to continue. Can never stop himself from adding to the conversation in some way - it’s a bad habit since he can never get the timing right and sometimes butts right in mid conversation, but the guy’s got his heart in the right place. Rolan’s the kind of partner that wants you to feel like he really appreciates the stuff that you appreciate, which he does by learning about them precisely so he can talk to you about them. It’s a sweet gesture, especially if your interests end up leading him down the proverbial rabbit hole of information he previously had no idea about.

Listen, Rolan is basically one big cat himself - you have to earn his trust and others may think he comes off too prickly and closed off. But once they love you? That’s it, it’s for life. So once your cats get used to having him around, they will absolutely love him. Well, more specifically the cats LOVE his tail. The poor tielfing’s tail is literally a walking cat toy, and it really doesn’t help that he rarely keeps it still idly swaying it from side to side as he goes about his day. You’re going to have to get used to hearing a familiar shout of surprise somewhere in the house followed by Rolan coming to find you with the offending cat in tow, cradled in his arms like a petulant fluffy child. Since you’re the cat-parent he seems to think you’ll somehow be able to convince your cats to give him some reprieve - a nice thought, but you both know that will never happen.

He’ll give you your space when you’re feeling overstimulated. Rolan understands probably better than most that the worst thing to do when it all becomes too much is to be surrounded by things and people that will only exacerbate the situation. He only hopes that you’ll come to him once you’ve taken the time to ground yourself, to see that you’re doing alright or to let him know if there’s anything else that you require. After taking over Ramazith’s tower there’s not a single room in the place off limits to you. Just pick a room and it’s yours for whatever you please; and if you need a place of comfort to hide yourself away without the worry of being disturbed this man will bend the place backwards to accommodate that for you. In his eyes it’s the very least that he can do to provide you a fraction of the comfort and security that you give him.

Rolan’s the kind of partner that would benefit the most from parallel play, especially with his tendency to keep himself occupied. To exist in the same place as the one you care for, doing separate things whilst also enjoying one another’s company? Rolan can think of nothing better, especially on the days when he’d just like to unwind and do his own thing in your company. If you’re comfortable with the touch and you’re each doing your own thing within close proximity he’ll drape his tail across your lap or around your hip, giving the occasional brush to your side like an unspoken appreciation for your presence in these little stolen moments. 

Rolan’s not going to push you to perform or sing in front of any audience, including his own if you express your discomfort at the prospect; he respects your privacy and will always give you space to indulge in your musical pursuits away from prying eyes. On that note though he’s got excellent hearing, so he’s been privy to catching the tail end of some of your practices without strictly meaning to. More than once he’ll idle himself nearby the room where you’re performing, enraptured momentarily by the beautiful sounds you create through your voice or the gentle thrum of your instruments. It’s no wonder he’s enraptured, so much so that he’s had to catch himself and scramble to make himself look as though he hadn’t spent the past few minutes listening to your music more than a few times once you’ve stopped performing. 

If you do decide to ever perform around Rolan though, especially in his presence he gets uncharacteristically quiet, listening to you sing or play with a reverent silence you wouldn’t expect from the usually snarky tiefling. Hell if you knew it only took this to render him speechless you may have done it sooner - just don’t tell him that though or he’ll go dark red right up to his ears. Rolan will absolutely boast about your musical prowess to anyone who’s around to hear.  He wants everyone to know just how talented and skilled his wonderful partner is, enough that his siblings will probably start begging you to reign him in..

Rolan is absolutely a help with your bad memory and tendency to get distracted; this guys had experience. I mean, look at his relationship with his siblings - trust me, all of them have got keeping you focused in the bag. Most of the time. Rolan is always there to remind you of important things you’ve forgotten - remembering important dates, reminding you where you last put down something that you’ve misplaced; he’s a lifesaver in a pinch and saves you a lot of headache trying to wrack your brain over these things. Granted he will sometimes joke in good fun about how he can add personal calendar and tracker to his expansive repertoire, and sigh about the things that he does for love. But a quick kiss or the soft brush of a hand against his cheek abruptly nips that teasing in the bud, and you’ll have him on the forgetful side as he leans into your touch.

[dontspillthefrijoles43]

Lost Hero- XII Breisa

Inconveniences

Warnings: Teenagers being teenagers, demigods not getting a break, weird dreams, fluff if you squint

Word count: 800

Summary: Another thing after another, being a demigod sucks— especially being a Hecate kid

__

Breisa realized that there were three things inconvenient to being a Hecate child.

The first thing was that magic required a lot of skill and patience for it to work. She had neither of those qualities. 

The second thing was how intrusive to another person's privacy. She would rather not know why Cal wants to bash in demigod faces. 

And the last was how scary and unpredictable it can be. 

How did Breisa come to this conclusion? Just pure frickin’ coincidence.

Take the argument that occurred in the hotel room. Leo’s anger had hit her point blank with a vengeance— there was something underlying in it. A spark. But not magic like hers. It was different. And powerful. 

Unfortunately the spark wasn’t the only thing. His anger caused a vision.

Briesa saw pieces of it on the way to the palace, but his anger made it clear:

White embers bursting from Leo's hands.

The same steel doors shut close to garage in flames— the sign on top of it said “Espranza’s” burning from both ends. 

Dirt women with that same sleepy smile. 

Leo had fire abilities.

That killed his mom.

That was the big secret.

 Knowing this was the worst. She had no right to pry into his mind and learn of this secret. Even if she kept pressuring him to tell. Only he could have given her that right to know. 

If it wasn’t for Breisa’s powers she would have been blissfully clueless. 

So yeah being a Hecate kid had major inconveniences.

But, there were some advantages. Like making mini snowmen to entertain Hockey buff. Who in turn let Leo reactivate Festus.

“Fight Fight!!” Cal cheered at the snowmen as they pushed and shoved at each other.

Breisa stood above the snowmen, moving her fingers like a puppeteer. Purple aurora (mist?) twisted along her fingers, some of it floated to the limbs of the snowmen. They moved with her fingers.

“How are you doing that?” Leo spoked suddenly. He had been quiet since the hotel room. 

 Festus clicked at the snow, he seemed curious as well. 

“Dunno.” She shrugged as nonchalant as possible, “Just thought what would entertain a big dumb violent Jock—fighting. So I thought about action figures. And well these guys came along. I guess I summoned them?”

Leo was about to ask another question, when footsteps were heard from the stairs. “Oh meirda. Here they come.”

 Breisa stopped moving her fingers causing the purple to fade and the snowmen melted into the ground.

“Awe.” Cal pouted. 

“Sorry.” Breisa muttered and quickly put her attention to Khione leading Piper and Jason down. 

At the bottom step, Khione turned to Piper. “You have fooled my father, girl. But you have not fooled me. We are not done. And you, Jason Grace, I will see you as a statue in the throne room soon enough.” 

“Boreas is right,” Jason said. “You’re a spoiled kid. See you around, ice princess.”

Khione’s eyes flared pure white. For once, she seemed at a loss for words. She stormed back up the stairs—literally.

Halfway up, she turned into a blizzard and disappeared. 

“Be careful,” Zethes warned. “She never forgets an insult.”

Cal grunted in agreement. “Bad sister.” 

“She’s the goddess of snow,” Jason said. “What’s she going to do, throw snowballs at us?”

Breisa stuck in a breath. She had a feeling that the snow goddess was more than capable of causing a couple of storms than snowballs.

Leo looked devastated. “What happened up there? You made her mad? Is she mad at me too? Guys, that was my prom date!”

“Seriously? Killer frosty as a date?” Breisa scoffed, but quickly caught herself. “Whatever man. Anyone want to share what the hell happened up there?”

 “We’ll explain later,” Piper promised, sharing a look with Jason.

“Yeah,” he agreed after a beat, “We’ll explain later.” 

Breisa gave a look to Leo, and he looked just as confused as her

“Be careful, pretty girl,” Zethes said to Piper. “The winds between here and Chicago are bad-tempered. Many other evil things are stirring. I am sorry you will not be staying. You would make a lovely ice statue, in which I could check my reflection.” 

“Thanks,” Piper said. “But I’d sooner play hockey with Cal.” 

“Hockey?” Cal’s eyes lit up. 

“Joking,” Piper said. “And the storm winds aren’t our worst problem, are they?” 

“Oh, no,” Zethes agreed. “Something else. Something worse.” 

“Worse,” Cal echoed. 

Breisa wondered what that meant.

“Can you tell me?” Piper gave them a smile. 

This time, the charm didn’t work. The purple-winged Boreads shook their heads in unison. The hangar doors opened onto a freezing starry night, and Festus the dragon stomped his feet, anxious to fly.

 “Ask Aeolus what is worse,” Zethes said darkly. “He knows. Good luck.” 

He almost sounded like he cared what happened to them, even though a few minutes ago he’d wanted to make Piper into an ice sculpture. 

Cal patted Leo and Breisa on the shoulder. “Don’t get destroyed,” he said, which was probably the longest sentence he’d ever attempted. “Next time—hockey. Pizza. And Fights!” 

“Come on, guys.” Jason stared out at the dark. He was eager to get going.  “Let’s go to Chicago and try not to get destroyed.”

__

Now gliding through the air, Breisa hoped and prayed that whatever was in Chicago would be easier.

After hearing about the interaction with Boreas—threats of being turned to ice, his personality flipped from Greek to Roman, and how their quest humored him— it didn’t seem likely that the ride would smooth over soon. 

Leo passed Breisa some sandwiches from his pack. She passed them back to Piper and Jason making sure she gave Piper the vegan one.

Leo had been weirdly quiet ever since they’d told him what happened in the throne room. 

“I still can’t believe Khione,” he said. “She looked so nice.”

“I think you’re mistaking niceness for bitchiness.” Breisa grumbled from behind him.

 “Trust me, man,” Jason said. “Snow may be pretty, but up close it’s cold and nasty.”

“We’ll find you a better prom date.” Piper smiled, but Leo didn’t look pleased.

 Neither him or Breisa mentioned much about their time in the hotel.

With what Breisa knew, she wondered if Leo would ever open up about his powers. 

But it seemed like that vision memory might be imprinted in his brain at the moment. She still felt awful for causing it. And deciding to deal with their issues later— Breisa they would break into arguing again.

His mood seemed to be affecting Festus, who grumbled and steamed as he tried to keep himself warm in the cold Canadian air. Happy the Dragon was not so happy.

 Nobody talked.

They were all in a mood. 

Breisa spaced out and stared into the starry sky. Snow flakes fell, landing into her curls. You could never get this view in East Los.

Her eyelids were getting heavy. She realized how tired she really was. 

But how could she possibly sleep right now? It would be better on a comfortable  bed.

“Deberías dormir.” Leo looked from the corner of his eye. “It’s a long way to Chicago, you know…It wouldn’t be good if you’re a delirious zombie when we land.”

“I'm the kid of a night goddess.” She argued, “I can stay up.”

“Tell that to the bags under your eyes.” Leo remarked,  “You already did a night watch. It's your turn to get some rest. Besides, they’re already passed out.”

Breisa looked to see that he was right. Piper was leaning back on Jason. Both were sound asleep.

With them looking all snuggled up– her whole body began to wear down. 

She yawned. “No me dejarás caer.”

“Can’t let you go splat,” Leo said. “Who else is going to manipulate dumb jocks with magic tricks?”

“Hmn.” Breisa hummed. Then leaned down and rested her head on his shoulder with her arms around his waist. Her sleep deprived mind was completely unaware of her actions.

The warmth that Leo radiated was cozy, safe. And he smelled like cinderwood and cinnamon. Surprisingly the army coat added to comfort, it almost felt like a pillow. 

The world began to melt away, and she began to dream…

—

“¡Aye, No!” The voice of her Tía cried. “That girl is in so much trouble when she gets home!” 

She was in the tiny  dining room-kitchen of their small apartment. Pacing between table and stove. 

The window above the dining table was open a bit—That meant she just had her cafecito and conchas. Tía Celia liked to enjoy it with the calming scenery of downtown. Especially since Christmas was coming around the corner.

Although right now she is not so calm. She still had her work uniform on. So she might’ve also just gone off.

The home phone was in her grasp. Which meant that she either got a call from Breisa’s school or her own half ass voicemail.

Neither would be considered good news. 

“Por Dios.” Tía sighed, “Mateo, you gave me a lot to work with. She’s exactly like us when we were young. Getting into trouble…¿Qué puedo hacer?”

Breisa felt guilty. She didn’t mean to worry her so much. 

“I know she’s a good kid.” Tía spoke aloud tearfully, “Was sending her away the right thing? I hope this would’ve helped…Am I a bad person?”

‘No!’ Breisa wanted to scream. ‘You aren’t a bad person, Tia! It’s my fault! I’m…I’m sorry.”

Her aunt paused. Like she heard her. 

Then she shook her head. “I can’t stress myself out. You wouldn’t have wanted that. Neither would Mija. I need to figure out how I’m going to find her. Especially if she’s staying with a friend.”

She began to dial a phone number. It rang.

Oh boy. Breisa thought. Tía Celica would not be happy once she figured out that she was across the country. Could chácalas travel that far? 

She just needed her to stay away. At least until she could get home. And explain everything. 

Breisa wished that Tía would just trust that she could handle herself. 

The strangest thing happened. Tía paused again. She looked around the apartment. Her eyes landed directly on Breisa's. They held eye contact for a brief moment, before she looked away. 

Tía hung up the phone. “I’ll wait. I can’t jump to conclusions. Not like last time…I just hope she calls soon.” 

Before Breisa could react the dream shifted. The world spun. And she was submerged in darkness. It was like murky water, but more goopy. 

She looked and moved around trying to adjust. But she only sank in.

“It will do you no use, little witch.” That familiar voice rumbled. Her accent stronger and more prominent than before.“You will not find much here. Not if I allow it.”

Bresia breathed uneasily. “What do you want? Why are you here?”

The voice cackled in delight,“To warn you, little witch. See my companions are coming after you and your friends.

If you stick with them, you’ll surely die…but if you choose to leave them. Betray them, so much better. Walk away.

I’ll give you back the life you deserve. You are so much better without them. With your loving aunt, who won’t worry any more. Maybe you’ll reunite with your father.”

Breisa hesitated for a moment. But she shook her head. “No! I’m not letting you get in my head. I won’t walk away. I won’t let you hurt them. We’ll stop you.” 

“Strong willed are we?” The voice growled, “Why do you protect?  High and mighty sky prince can not recognize his namesake. How do you know he is not dangerous? The girl is manipulative and she hardly knows you. She could easily use you.

And that Fire boy. You think he would forgive you for learning of his secret? And the things you have done to him? Surely the hate will drive you apart.” 

“Shut up!” Breisa snapped. Then she regretted it, but she held her ground. “I won’t leave them. You’ll have better than words.”

The voice snarled, “If that’s your choice. They only hold you back. Hope you have a nice trip demigod.``

Breisa felt cold breeze on her neck, the dream world spun—

And she woke up to everyone screaming.

 Breisa was free-falling through the air.

—

(A/N: Five months is a long time 😅, but I’m back. Posting slowly, trying to get to the meat of this this story. Hope you all enjoy this, editing for a really long time. [As well as other chapters before] Also it’s ✨Christmas season🎄✨ figured it be the best time to post this.)

Translations for the chapter— coming soon

[saltsprite]

ohoho you posted an ask meme

🌀Post the fic summary for a fic you haven't written/published yet. It can be hypothetical or something you really plan on releasing...

❄️Share a snippet from a WIP of your choosing.

🌤️Share your favorite piece of dialogue from your WIP.

🌧️Share something angsty from your WIP.

🌈 Share something soft/fluffy from your WIP.

💧Share something romantic/hot from your WIP, or just something sweet if it's gen.

🌩️ Share something funny/cracky from your WIP.

☔Is there a fic concept you have that you'd like to just explain and share because you're not sure you'll ever write it? If so, what is it? 🌪️

Sum up a WIP with a few fic tropes/Ao3 tags.

I should have fucking known LOL <3

🌀Post the fic summary for a fic you haven't written/published yet.

[oleander fools, Red Dead Redemption 2] Charles Smith (having loved and lost one Arthur Morgan) encounters Arthur's past love, Mary Linton, at Arthur's grave. Lonely, they fall into bed in a hotel in the nearest town. The next morning she asks for his hand in a marriage of convenience that turns sweeter.

I'm actually gonna do another one here, because I think these are both galaxy-brain ideas

[tentative title: seedlings, Jedi Survivor, gen fic] Boba Fett, for once in his 23-year-old life, has let a Jedi walk free. On top of that, today's bounty (Caij Vanda, a rival bounty hunter that'd been helping said karking Jedi) won't shut the hell up. Needing a drink before heading into the black, Boba takes Caij's advice to visit Pyloon's Saloon... only to find the same Jedi, again. To get away from him Boba heads to the rooftop gardens-- and there, finds a child who reminds him eerily of himself.

❄️Share a snippet from a WIP of your choosing.

[untitled WIP, RDR2 Charthur] God, Arthur's stupid.

(yes i do think im funny, yes i will post another snippet because i like to post snippets)

[untitled WIP, Jedi Survivor, Cal/Bode] “Bode?”  Looking up, Bode finds Cal sitting on the cliff’s ledge above him, feet dangling over the edge. BD-1 chirrups something at him from Bode’s shoulder; Cal flashes a smile that doesn’t smell right to Bode. “Greez said I’d find you brooding out here.”  “Oh. Is that how he phrased it.” And— well, he had, but in much the same way as Cal had just smiled at him: The same way a damaged shield generator will cough and sputter before doing its damn job. Bode plants his hands on his hips. “What are you up to, then?”  Cal sniffs, before a crooked, sheepish grin appears. “Brooding.”

🌤️Share your favorite piece of dialogue from your WIP.

[oleander fools, RDR2] “What’re you lookin’ at?” Charles asks.  Arthur slaps on his dumbest grin, the besotted one he hides until they can be alone. “You, my flower.”  Laughing around a groan, Charles decides to play this one out. If Arthur’s going to open his big dumb mouth to say big dumb things, Charles can at least get some kind of entertainment out of it. “What kind?”  “Oleander.” Arthur’s answer is immediate, confident. Like he’s thought about it. A lot.  Crinkling his nose, Charles frowns. “Small and pink?”  Again, Arthur smiles— but it’s softer, sweeter. Missing his hat, some of his hair falls into his eyes as he dips to take Charles’s hand. He presses his thumbs into the pads and cushions of Charles’s calloused palm. “I handle you wrong, you’ll kill me real quick.” Arthur drops a warm kiss to palm center, then glances up at Charles looking almost shy and oozing boyish charm. “And that’s kinda the entire appeal.”

🌧️Share something angsty from your WIP.

[meet me halfway, Boba Fett/Cobb Vanth] Put your softness in my hands, Cobb had said before, those words so carefully chosen, his aim as true and unwavering as his desire. Nothing comes to mind, now. Nothing but the wretchedly tender truth that chokes him from the inside, clumping in his throat like he swallowed sand. There’s too much to say. He should say it. He needs to say it. There’s no fucking point in saying it now because he waited too long, it might kill him to say it, but he will try. He can try.  “If this all goes tits-up,” Cobb starts, wetting his lips — but Boba stops him, gently bumping a knuckle under his chin.  “Have you so little faith in me?” Boba scoffs, attempting lightheartedness despite the worry and grief already carved into the canyon bedrock of his face. He can't say it.

🌈 Share something soft/fluffy from your WIP.

[faith, freedom (RDR2, Charthur)] As he settles against Arthur’s chest Charles grunts in protest, but Arthur feels him smile. Combs fingers through Charles’s hair, made soft with some oil he’s begun using that smells of vanilla, its gentle perfume warmed and sharpened to a point with tobacco and camp smoke. Arthur breathes deep.

💧Share something romantic/hot from your WIP, or just something sweet if it's gen.

[faith, freedom (RDR2, Charthur)] “Beautiful.”  Charles snorts, ducking his head. “Now who’s sayin’ shit he don’t mean?”  “Aw, Charles,” Arthur tuts. He lets go in favor of running the flat of his nail up the fractal scar along Charles’s cheek. “Ought to know by now, I don’t suffer liars in my bed.”

🌩️ Share something funny/cracky from your WIP.

[oleander fools] John Marston: ah, the Morgan widows Charles: …one widow J: Aw but you and Arthur were— y’know. So that’d be you and Mary together, I mean. C: no, no, a widow is a woman, widower is the man— J: yeah but it’s a man who died, so you’re his widow too C: DOUBT [x]

☔Is there a fic concept you have that you'd like to just explain and share because you're not sure you'll ever write it? If so, what is it?

idk what pairing, but i know there's a good Hades (game) AU in me somewhere, i KNOW IT. I feel like I can make it work best in SW, using planet names for each region (like... Naboo for Elysium, obvs Mustafar for Asphodel). If it's DinCobb, then Cobb is fighting through the underworld ruled by Boba Fett with Djarin in the Thanatos role. If it's Cal/Bode, then it's Cal fighting through, with Bode maybe posing as a helpful NPC... at first. >:3

🌪️Sum up a WIP with a few fic tropes/Ao3 tags.

Red Dead Redemption 2, Arthur Morgan/Charles Smith, Camping, First Time, Recreational Drug Use, And There Was Only One Tent

[butterpony100]

Hi this is a very late submission to @ninjago-oc-appreciation oc swap!

My blog to write for was @the-painted-siren and their characters!

(This is so late I’m so sorry ahhh)

——————

Where fools roam, Chaos reigns.

——————

The day started off slow. Dragging himself out from the comfort of his bed, Calem’s thoughts were muddled as he got dressed for the day. He wasn’t sure what, but he felt as though he was forgetting something important.

The feeling nagged at him long after the fog in his mind cleared, an answer just on the tip of his tongue that he couldn’t quite place. Sitting down to eat breakfast was when an answer arrived for him, knocking at his door.

Opening it, he was somewhat surprised to be met with two familiar faces. One a full head shorter than him with platinum blond hair and thick brown roots, emerald cat like eyes sparkled with energy. The other slightly taller, with a split dye of silver and black hair braided off to the side, a set of ruby contacts glimmering.

“Lloyd? Lyra? What are you guys doing here?”

Lyra scoffed and rolled her eyes. “I told you he would forget.” She commented to Lloyd, as the blond huffed while passing her a five dollar bill.

The two let themselves in, scooting past Calem, and Lloyd not so subtly snatched up a slice of toast from the ready made plate on the table.

“Hey! If you're gonna steal my food, at least give me a straight answer as to why you guys showed up at…” he looks at the clock on the wall “7 in the morning?? Neither of you two are up this early, even on a good day.”

He raised his eyebrow at the two as they both shared chuckles and hushed whispers. Finally, Lyra decided to have mercy on him.

“Don’t you know what today is?”

“Uhhhh….” So what if he was a master of time? That didn’t magically make him better at remembering dates.

His hesitation spoke volume as Lloyd dramatically slumped over in mock devastation. “How could you, Cal! You would forget such a momentous occasion!?”

The gears in his head were stuttering like they were rusted shut until it finally clicked.

“Ohhhh…. It’s anniversary day, isn’t it?”

The other two standing in front of him burst into laughter, clearly taking much enjoyment in his suffering.

“About time! A full year of dating and somehow your memory is still garbage.” Lloyd jokes.

“I’m not even sure I have any tea on hand that would fix that.” Lyra adds on.

“Ok ok-“ Calem interrupts, face flushed with embarrassment. “Now that you’ve had your laugh, do we have any plans for today?”

At that question, Lloyds face shifted into a devious smirk. “Oh nothing much. But it just so happens that the rest of the team is staying at the monastery for the whole day, completely relaxed and not expecting any mischief whatsoever.”

Calem briefly gawked at his partner, turning to Lyra in confusion. “Arnt you supposed to be the smart one among the three of us? How did he get you to do this?”

At that, his other partner shrugged. “What can I say, he’s pretty convincing.”

“Cmon, Calem!” Lloyd pushes his shoulder. “We have the whole day to ourselves, but it’s nothing but yuck outside.” He gestures over to the window, where gray clouds gathered densely above the city.

“If we can’t go out, we might as well have some fun indoors!”

“I dunno..”

“Kai will be perfectly unsuspecting-“ Lloyd teases.

“I’m in.” Calem immediately agrees. After all, he has made it his life mission to annoy the fire ninja to his grave.

“Wow, you were right, it really was that easy.” Lyra comments.

—————

It was a quiet afternoon at the monastery.

Too quiet in Kai’s opinion.

Maybe it was just his paranoia acting up, but he swears that there was something about today that he forgot.

He’d brought it up to Nya, but she had dismissed him, saying something like “your just wound up too tight. Go blow off some steam.” Before returning to her workbench and tinkering away at some sort of mechanism.

Lloyd had plans out in the city for the day, and the other three ninja were all in the living room watching the new star fairer spinoff. Maybe he was being overly cautious.

Kai sighed and entered the kitchen, intending to grab a bag of chips before joining the others.

Of course, that's assuming he could get into the kitchen.

Distracted, he didn’t see the plastic wrap encasing the door frame until he smacked face first into it. He sputtered in disbelief, moving to try and tear down the ridiculous prank.

The plastic gave way easily as he stomped into the kitchen, now wary of any other tricks in hidden corners. From what he could see, there wasn’t anything else obvious.

Looks like some of the guys have been practicing their crappy senses of humor. He thought. Prepared to meet the others in the living room and give them a piece of his mind, Kai quickly flipped open the pantry to retrieve a bag of tortilla chips.

That was a mistake.

A small bottle of a foul smelling liquid tipped over into another bottle, the contents dyed green and suspiciously smelling of soap.

Kai had a split second to remember some obscure trend that Lloyd had shown him with something called “elephant toothpaste” before the result literally exploded in his face.

————

Jay, Cole, and Zane were just in the middle of criticizing the quality of the latest starfairer spinoff when’s loud shout came from the kitchen.

“Was that Kai?” Zane asked as Jay and Cole were already on their feet, rushing to the hallway. Jay made it out the doorway first, which might have been a poor choice.

The moment his foot made contact with the hallway floor, he knew something was wrong. His theory quickly proved to be correct as the spot where his foot landed quickly became the only spot he could stand, stuck firmly in place.

A noise of confusion came from behind him as he turned to Cole and Zane, seemingly not stuck and looking down at the floor with stupor.

“What is it-?” Jay was in the middle of asking before turning his own gaze to the ground to see…

Fly traps. Dozens of bright yellow fly traps were laid out on the floor. Jay just so happened to be standing directly ontop of one.

“Oh you’ve gotta be kidding me-“

—————

“What the heck is going on???” Nya shouted, emerging from her room to several commotions occurring in the halls. She turned to her left to see Cole race past her, a neon yellow piece of paper trailed behind him from the cuff of his pants.

She looked further down the hall to see Zane precariously tiptoeing through what looked like a minefield of the same paper, Jay even further behind him trying desperately to unstick himself from some invisible force.

She quickly turned to the direction Cole was running to see him meet Kai at the doorway to the kitchen, though you could barely tell who it was underneath the mountain of green foam that covered him from head to toe.

Silently, her mind clicked together the pieces and realized what was happening when another shout drew her attention. She quickly raced past a snickering Cole and a grumpy Kai trying desperately to remove the soapy substance.

Nya finally turned the corner of the monastery to see green eyes furrowed in frustration. Under a mountain of rainbow glitter was Pixal, her girlfriend.

“Pix! Are you ok?” Nya approached, stifling a few chuckles at the cute huffs the nindroid was releasing. “There is a reason why I feared to frequent the monastery on this day of all days.”

“Yeah, sorry for calling you out here. I just remembered myself.” Nya apologized.

“Wait, what’s today?” She heard her brothers voice question. Turning around, she could see the remains of several pranks on the four other ninja.

Kai and Coke were both covered in remains of the green soap, seeping into their clothes and probably leaving permanent stains. Zane, while making it through the glue trap unscathed, seemed to have run into a separate trap on his way through the halls, now covered in what distinctly smelt of soy sauce. Jay seemed to have the worst of it, covered in several sheets of neon yellow fly traps from head to toe.

Three sets of laughs drew the groups attentions as they looked to the side, towards a door that led into the monastery courtyard. From the doorframe, three figures stood cackling and shaking with laughter.

“It’s your anniversary, isn’t it?” Nya asked matter o factly to the trio of Lloyd, Calem, and Lyra.

“Mayybeeee” Lloyd teased in between giggles.

Kai was inches away from launching himself at the three before Nya strode across the hall and grabbed him by the arm.

“Pix, I trust you know what to do from here.” She gave her most menacing smile to the three in the doorway, their laughter suddenly cut short and replaced by looks of horror. Her lovely robot girlfriend mirrored her smile, also turning to the three. “Of course I do.”

Dragging her brother off in her iron grip away from the whails of teenage agony as the pranksters were assigned their various clean up duties, Nya pulled Kai into the laundry room.

Before Kai could sputter off a word of indignation, Nya threw a pair of clean clothes at him. “You’d better change. Master of fire or not, those ‘elephant toothpaste’ experiments generate a lot of chemical heat, and it’ll leave nasty burns if you keep those on.”

Kai muttered under his breath as he tossed off his sullied garments. “Why didn’t you let me give them a piece of my mind! Little pranks are one thing, but those guys could have endangered themselves and us if an emergency happened.”

As Kai prattled on, Nya set a hand on his shoulder. “But nothing did happen. Plus, how often can you say you’ve seen Lloyd smile like that.”

That got the brunette to shut up, turmoil clear on his face. Nya sighed. “Look, I know you have some issues with Calem, and maybe you think those three are getting themselves into trouble more often than not, but they’re all practically adults. They deserve to make their own decisions.”

Nya chuckled “And if they get in over their heads, that’s when we can swoop in and give them a piece of our minds.” At that, Kai chuckled along.

“I- I guess your right. I haven’t see Lloyd this happy since Sensei Garmadon.”

Nya nudged him on the shoulder. “When am I not right? Anyway, get your stuff together so you can come watch those brats clean up the mess they made. I know I’m making popcorn.”

Kai laughed out loud. “Ok ok. Now scram so I can find some actual clothes instead of the pair of pajamas you just handed me.”

Nya just shrugged “thought you’d want to lay down after all that excitement, old man.”

She laughed as Kai pelted his shirt toward her playfully.

In the hallway, Nya watched fondly as Lloyd and his partners in crime jokes and laughed with eachother, peeling the remaining glue traps off of the floor.

——————

[0-cal-princess]

I think my friend is cutting me off cuz she found out about my eating this order so I'm gonna complain and moan about it 🍓

So basically you wanna cut me off after nearly 4 years of friendship because I got a little too silly and developed an ed??? Even after everything we been thru together??? Girl what the fuck. I never fucking judged you for the dumb ass shit you do even when I knew you were 100% in the wrong. You have no fucking right getting on your high horse calling me sick, saying I need help and that I'm doing something wrong when you partake in equally self-destructive behaviors, what the fuck??? I literally was there for you when your life was falling apart (which was 100% preventable if you just stayed put and did things the right way like i fucking told you but oh well), drying your tears and holding your hand because i love you and i care for you no matter what you did so it really fucking hurts me to see you ghosting and avoiding, and treating me all dry. I understand it was my fault for being honest and transparent with you about my issues but you're literally my best friend??? Like i've never opened up to anyone like I have with you, that's why i felt comfortable telling you about my bulim1a. i never expected you to react the way you're reacting and it honestly really fucking hurts my feelings. Ik you're going thru a lot but if you dont like me anymore you can just use your big girl voice and fucking say it to my face instead of ghosting me and treating me badly. we are fucking adults so why dont you act like one???? I never fucking offended you, or body shamed you, or said anything about your weight so why are you telling ME im losing too fast and obsessing over it??? you could have just kept your mouth shut and let it go like I do every time you talk to me about some dumb ass shit you do. anyways your fucking loss i guess, thanks for being my friend and im sorry we broke it off this way i hope nothing but the best for you and i really hope you work on your issues, i will strive to do the same

my friend confronted me about my ed and then ghosted me after telling her it wasn't that deep. I feel like a fool for spamming her phone trying to get a response out of her. ig i'll wait another day then i will text her the classic "did i do something wrong :(" typa shit. i just wanted to vent cuz i cant get it out of my head. it bothers me so fucking much like sis what the fuck since when are you the moral authority??? but anyways

I broke my purge-free streak yesterday and it wasn't fun. I couldn't even purge it all cuz it got to the point where i gave myself a horrible headache so i just let it be. I think i will go over my cal limit today as well so yay aint it fun?? I feel like somebody beat the shit out of me, i still have a pounding headache, my chest feels like somebody punched the shit out of it, i have no energy and my throat is fucked. Im also very dumb so i weighed myself and got spooked so I took some laxs as if my life is not miserable enough yaay for me. Never purging again in my fucking life (that's a lie). anyways thanks if you read it all, stay skinny ladies <3

[itadori-yujiii]

watch a half functioning braincelll read the first 5 chapters of red queen

1st chapter 

ooh she’s a thief~ i already like this mare

okay, she’s 17 nice, nice

aww now i want 3 piercings on the same ear

wHo iS tHiS mAn? hE….. iS …… Kilorn Warren

you dumb fool.

hEr DAD IS MISSING A LEG AND A LUNG?!

noo poor kil don’t starve

ok ok so there are strong arms, telkies, swifties—- i mean swifts, nymphs, greenys (blueys) and stone-skins

oOh this guy likes violence 

Samson, can i call you sam? WAIT ACTUALLY NO SAM IS THE NAME OF A TEACHER THAT HATES ME

SAMSON’S A WHISPER THATS SOCOOL

2nd chapter

wait didn’t her mom leave the fam *flicks back a few pages* “Kilorn’s mother ran off after that” OHH OKAY 

okay her sister has red hair like fire

I dunno if i should trust this sister

the mom’s worse at cooking than me

WHAT KIND OF SISTER FORGETS HER BOTHER’S LETTER

ahh okay so the dad’s an anteater when it comes to shade’s letters, makes sense

I like this shade we should be friends

“her chair scrapes as she stands up” ouch just reading it hurt my ears

“i hope you like black eyes because i have no problem giving you one for this” i was scared kil would punch mare here

oh no kil don’t cry

DONT GO KIL PLEASE DONT GO TO WAR

que go to war by nothing more

3rd chapter

“his voice cracks, though he coughs to try and cover it up” nooo bby

“the heat in my cheeks surges faster than any flame” oooh someone has a cruushhh

whenever you need to be transported somewhere, just look for the black market

obviously the grandpa is gonna have access to the black market

LadyFarleyis hot 

here you go lady farley: 

( i added a thousand crown emojis but APPARENTLY theres a limit)

now that that’s done, i have a pickup line: why tf would you need a thousand crowns for? you’re ALREADY a queen

and plus people would be sus about how you would have that many crowns

“oh yeah i was human trafficking and the price was a thousand crowns”

*chokes on literal air* THE DAY AFTER TOMORROW?!?!

Lady, I think you need to sit down

oh no how’s she gonna tell kil 

4th chapter

okay first can i say that i had a dream that mare was a telkie or a whisper … if that’s how you spell it

do all silvers have rdf’s?

how much you guys wanna bet she’ll leave gee here and get arrested

FARLEY AND GRANDPA WHAT HAVE YOU BEEN UP TO

okay but that was very baddie of Farley

why would you drown the innocent red? If he was part of the scarlet guard, he would be terrorizing with his cult, wouldn’t he? That’s like killing every German because of Hitler

Mare didn’t even get a single thing

so there are also cloners. They. Are. Scary.

please don’t beat up gee and mare, please don’t beat up gee and mare

WHAT THE HECK DID YOU JUST DO TO GEE

THAT OFFICER IS GETTING BEAT UP

WHAT DO YOU MEAN “ITS THE LAW” SHE DIDN’T ACTUALLY STEAL ANYTHING. EVEN IF SHE DID YOU COULD JUST TAKE IT FROM HER AND SEND HER TO JAIL NOT BEAT UP HER HANDS

I WILL FIND THE OFFICER AND BEAT HIM UP

5th chapter

I wonder where she’s planning to go 

“I do it every summer, but Kilorn is always with me, smiling into a drink as he watches me work. I don’t suppose I’ll see his smile for much longer.” NOOO PLEASE SHUT UP DONT MAKE ME MISS HIM ALREADY

“I guess causing pain is all I’m good for” NO SHUT UP YOU WERE ONLY TRYING TO GET A THOUSAND CROWNS TO KEEP KILORN WITH YOU IT WASN’T YOUR FAULT

also stop sulking and do something about it 

uh oh she got caught

the guy who caught her is going to be important. Not once has she described anyone with such detail.

“He is the strangest person I’ve ever met” could it be that guy “Cal” I’ve heard about? If I’m right, you all owe me a chicken nugget

“His smile returns, and the comfort it gives me is unsettling” HAH NOW I KNOW ITS CAL

“I’m Cal” WHAT DID I SAY YOU ALL OWE ME A CHICKEN NUGGET

Was Cal at the Hall too?

I like Cal

So, what, does Cal pay her every time he pities her?

“Something about the mud and shadows makes Cal uncomfortable” Is that going to be important?

“You shouldn’t worry your mother like that” IS HER DAD NOT EVEN GOING TO CONSIDER THE GUILT SHE FEELS?!

Why is the dad worried about the light shortage in the house aND NOT HIS DAUGHTER’S BROKEN HANDS

Does her turning the light on magically have something to do with her powers that are mentioned in the back?

Her dad is now has a profession in lecturing mare about false hope

How can Gee sleep? If that were me i’d be shaking and whimpering and crying until sunrise

OH MY GOD SHADE’S PART OF THE SCARLET GUARD

[highwayphantoms]

happy friday! sending you “what would you do without me, huh?” for your inquisitor hawke thoughts 👀

thank you for the prompt! It took me a second to figure out where to go with this one, but I got there :D for @dadrunkwriting

-

The attack came out of nowhere. One moment, Cal was reading by candlelight. The next, a blast rattled the stones of the Chantry and screams filled the air. Their current guard, an older templar whose mind was beginning to slip, opened the door and poked his head in just long enough to say, “Don’t move. I’m going to investigate.”

As the door fell shut once more, Cal idly wondered if he thought they would try to run. Such an effort would be futile. Cal had known as much since the day Cullen himself had drawn a fresh phylactery from their veins. There was no sense in wasting energy on a fool’s errand. Not when Cal could keep their cards close to their chest and wait for an opportunity.

They’d done it once. They could do it again. Though hopefully this time it wouldn’t take the better part of a decade.

The screams gave way to distant shouts, and Cal gave up on the pretense of continuing to read. They weren’t dressed for the bitter cold that no doubt awaited them beyond the walls of the Chantry, but curiosity had already won out over the idea of looking for something warmer than the plain robes they wore. At worst, they could always shift to a form with a dense layer of fur rather than what little hair humans possessed.

Cal slipped out the door, taking care to shut it quietly despite a cursory glance proving that there was no one still milling about the main hall of the Chantry. Whatever was happening, it was evidently serious enough to demand all hands. All hands except for the mage being used as a puppet.

One of the grand doors that opened out into the village was slightly ajar, allowing just a wisp of chilly air into the otherwise warm building. Cal nudged it further open and peered out to take stock of the scene.

Ordinarily, it would have been difficult to see anything at all in the dark of night. However, several buildings in the village were burning, casting a flickering light all across Haven.

The rebels. It had to be. The bulk of mages who had fled the failed peace talks had since fractured into smaller groups, but there was still a sizeable chunk of rebels scattered across southern Thedas. The Inquisition had been slowly sniffing each group out and removing them from the equation—any mage who did not surrender to the Inquisition’s forces was killed, despite Cal’s efforts to convince the Seeker and Cullen to spare them.

The more mages the Inquisition killed, the more likely it was that the remainder would attack. Cal had reminded them of Kirkwall, of how Meredith’s dogged persecution of the handful of apostates had led to the destruction of a large chunk of Hightown, but they hadn’t listened.

Templars never seemed to learn: a cornered animal will fight to the death.

In truth, Cal was surprised the Inquisition hadn’t been forced to deal with more desperate mages accepting aid from demons. The Veil in Kirkwall was thin; perhaps that was why they had been forced to take down such mages so many times.

Cal did not like being made to fight other mages. In fact, Cal didn’t particularly care for any kind of combat, but in Kirkwall, either you fought or you died.

“Do not give them access to the Inquisitor!” came another shout, this time close enough that Cal flinched. Cullen, their mind supplied after a moment. Who else would be giving orders so close to the seat of the Inquisition’s power?

Definitely rebels. Very probably rebels who wanted Cal dead.

For a moment, Cal considered their options: hide inside the Chantry and hope the Inquisition had enough templars to hold off an attack by vengeful mages, or slip out the door and hide in the village. The village that was… burning. No. Bad idea.

Then, before they could decide one way or the other, a Smite washed over them and knocked both the air from their lungs and the Fade from their reach. Too late. The rebels were already close enough to be reached by the templars just out of Cal’s field of view.

Gasping for air, Cal backed away from the door. Too late to run and hide.

“Hawke,” a familiar voice hissed from somewhere behind them. “This way, quickly.”

Cal twisted around, searching the dimly lit space for the source of the voice and desperately wishing for even the tiniest sliver of magic. Nothing—then, a flicker of light. The slightest flicker of silvery light in the shadows.

Fenris.

More urgently, he said, “Move.”

Something snapped loose, and Cal darted towards him. “You can’t be here,” they insisted, barely above a whisper. “They’ll kill us both.”

With the practiced ease of a man used to diffusing their anxieties, Fenris grabbed Cal’s hand and said flatly, “Not tonight.” Without further preamble, he tugged them towards the back of the Chantry. “Follow me.”

Cal did.

In silence, Fenris led the way down a dusty corridor that twisted and turned like a servant’s corridor. The only light to be had once they left the main hall behind was the faint glow of Fenris himself, the lyrium in his skin occasionally flickering. Cal knew that even elves could make out very little in total darkness, but Fenris seemed undeterred, as if he’d walked this path a hundred times before.

He couldn’t have. Surely someone would have noticed something.

Then, finally, he stopped, and tugged open a door so old and warped that slivers of moonlight shone around its edges. The hinges, however, were utterly silent.

Fenris gestured for them to go first, and Cal did, the snow crunching under their feet. They made it barely two steps before Anders seemed to appear from nowhere and wrapped his arms tight around their shoulders.

“We need to go,” Fenris said in a low, firm voice.

“I know, I know,” Anders replied, releasing Cal with very apparent reluctance. Then he shot them a bright grin and said, “What would you do without us, huh?”

[calamitaswrath]

Girl where are you going

[shadowqueen402]

Amaunts Fatale: Part 20

(Meanwhile at Lance's hideout)

Balan, Aria, Debbie, Marina, NiGHTS, and Leo managed to make it to the room where the missing people were being kept. "Oh my gosh…" Marina said. "It's really them… The missing people… Jose, Fiona, Haoyu, Sana, Cal, Attilio, and Lucy…"

"We have to find a way to save them," NiGHTS whispered. "But trying to convince them would be difficult…"

"That's why I have a plan," Balan said. "Lance is capable of being fooled despite being an intelligent man."

"Fooling him?" Leo asked. "What do you mean?"

"I will send Aria to distract him until he could barely think," Balan explained. "While he's talking with Aria, we'll be able to get that drink. I will attach a little hearing device on her ear. So any orders I give her through this microphone, only she will hear." Balan showed Leo the little microphone that was hidden in the collar of his shirt.

"Ready when you are, Balan," Aria said.

Balan nodded and attached the hearing device onto Aria's ear. He then tested the microphone. "Can you hear, loud and clear?"

"Yes," Aria said.

"Be careful out there," Balan said. "There's Negati everywhere."

Aria nodded and made her way down to the bar. Lance took notice of her and smirked. He made his way over to Aria.

"A new Visitor, I see," Lance said. "Especially one that is this pretty."

Aria smiled at Lance, but deep down, she was not genuinely interested. "I take that as a compliment."

(Meanwhile with Jackle and Reala)

"We finally found Lance's hideout!" Jackle said to Reala. "You gotta admit that Lance has a nice area! Want to grab a drink?" He eyed up the bar.

"No!" Reala barked. "We only came here to get the drink, that is it!" He and Jackle snuck into the same area to look around for Lance. That was when Reala saw her: Aria.

She was sitting at the bar while Lance was…flirting with her. For some reason, Reala found himself glaring at Lance. And it wasn't just because of Lance being his enemy. It was as though he couldn't stand another man flirting with Aria.

Jackle saw this and grinned at this. "Ooh, someone is jealous!" He giggled.

"Shut it!" Reala glared at Jackle. "I am not jealous! Why would I be?"

"I saw the way you look at that Visitor," Jackle said. "It's obvious that you like her."

Reala huffed. "Let's just go after Lance so we can get that drink, then we'll be off."

Debbie belongs to @mayordebbie

Marina belongs to @sundove88

Aria belongs to me.

[fully-caulked-wagon]

Some of my favourite lines/passages from my shitty Aidungeon Zosan fanfics Part 7

Pretend that part 6 never said '(final)'. Pretend right now. Fic 4 (Again cause I've added like, 11,000 words to it since I posted the first fic 4 part.):

If his legs twitch in anticipation of a fight anymore than they are now, he's sure he'll come down with a severe case of the dancing plague. Dancing, being code for 28 rage-induced kicks to the cranium of dickhead sheriffs. - Don't ask me why I decided to reference a meme as dead as '28 stab wounds' cause I honestly don't know. Sanji startles slightly, running a hand through the back of his hair and sighing, "Right. Right. Yeah. See ya, I guess. If I die, make sure I'm buried by the lovely hands of Nami-Swan and Robin dear. And don't touch my kitchen." Zoro huffs and rolls his eyes, "If you die, we're throwing you straight in the bin." - "When I die, just throw me in the trash!" - Danny Devito Sanji stretches his arms high above his head and cracks his neck, "I'll be back before the Mosshead even has the chance to get lost in his own thoughts." "Oi!" - This is like, right after the previous excerpt, I just wanted to separate them. "Fucking Christ. Stupid fucking Marimo and his dumbass being right." - What a fool, what a nincompoop, what a buffoon, what an imbecile, what an ignoramus. Also - Jesus Christ canonically in One Piece verse, question mark exclamation mark? In fairness, he doesn't have to sneak through too many thin alleyways - none other than today, in fact. Getting shit talked by the mosshead, on the other hand? Not so mercifully infrequent. - Oof. Usopp is sat rigidly in his seat with a small smile on his face as the mosshead stacks the most miniscule fucking deck of cards Sanji has ever seen atop Usopp's nose - it somehow managing to have reached monstrous heights - while the scent of a stroke Sanji's almost convinced he's having wafts from the plate of 'buttered toast' Cal is munching on on the sidelines. - I just liked the phrase 'the scent of a stroke', honestly. Might be one of those things where it's only funny to me, idk. "Usopp thought you were dead!" Maria follows up calmly, "Zoro wished you were dead." - Double oof. Sanji's about however long it would take to read the full list of vegetables Luffy would willingly eat over meat - that is to say, a second at best, from growling. - This whole fic is just one big test of Sanji's patience, ngl. Sanji sighs and lets his head hit the table, a hollow 'thunk' ringing in his ears, the ringing growing stronger as the mosshead snorts in an unattractive and not at all endearing way, "That sound was your skull, shit Cook." "That sound was your brain trying to come up with original insults, jackass, shut up." "Scathing." "You don't even know what that means." - Triple oof. Sanji thanks the impending dread that fills the room for stopping him from blatantly swooning. - Ah, existential doom. A fickle mistress. Franky gives a low whistle, "Hot. ...I think." - There's a lot of things that are questionably hot in this world. Franky will fuck every last one of them. Sanji can feel his fucking ears turning red, damn this stupid perceptive bastard, "Che. I was just trying to figure out if your brain was small enough for a metal pole to go in one ear and out the other without making contact." "Bastard." - Goddamn shrubbery and their fucking observation haki. On his right there's a door labelled 'bathroom' that, once he opens it briefly to glance inside, gives way to a small room that can only really be called a bathroom on the technicality that the thing in the corner is probably a bath and the amount of space the area takes up is probably enough to be considered a room. - Ah, hotels. (Technically it's an inn, but shh.) Robin freezes in place once they reach the saloon, tilting her head slightly as she inquires to Franky, "By any chance, have you been rattling?" Franky simply smirks and opens up the door to his stomach fridge and extends a tiny hand in to fish out a pair of sea stone handcuffs, spinning it around on one finger and chuckling, "Maybe." - Dude just rattles sometimes, don't worry about it. Robin places a hand to her cheek, "Oh my. Perhaps this passageway has a connection to the future? It would be a shame if we passed through, and our bodies slowly aged and shrivelled up until we were nothing but bones and bolts." Franky sweats slightly, replying slightly shakily, "Yeah, that's uh... That's- Th... Please stop being so ominous. It's SUPER freakin' me out." - Yo. That would suck, I think. Franky chuckles, calming down somewhat, "Yeah, well, not in this case. I don't exactly find the slow, agonising aging of my body until I rot away particularly sexy - sorry." Robin hums, "That's fair, I suppose." - This is again almost immediately after the previous excerpt but yada yada. A couple beats of silence pass and Franky leans down and mutters, "Do I need to eeny-meeny-miny-moe this again, or...? I'm down for charging blindly in a random direction too if you are." - Again. Implying he's done that before. I refuse to think about the implications of that.

[asksquidbeakagents]

"You're bringing the smallfry?"

"I'm hoping one of the delegation members can understand him. Me and Dad can't really make out what he's saying. We can tell he's saying something but it doesn't sound like what we've learnt," Peony said.

Amaterasu frowned as Buddy began to squawk at her.

"Okay I see your point. The pronunciation isn't quite right and it makes it difficult to tell what he's actually saying."

"Besides, Dad says Horrorborros has expressed interest in meeting me personally."

"Wait, they're gonna be here?!"

"Yes, why?"

Amaterasu shuddered slightly, glancing around. "They just... something about their voice gives me the creeps."

"Wow, the great General Amaterasu Takowasa is actually afraid of something?"

"Shut up. Just because you're the shogun's kid doesn't mean I won't kick your siphon. Don't forget that I've all but been declared Octavio's heir, I'm gonna outrank you soon."

"You already outrank me."

"Exactly. Now don't make fun of me."

"Whatever."

"Ugh. Come on. The shogun is waiting for us."

_____________________

Peony stood between Octavio and Amaterasu as the Salmonid delegation arrived, Horrorborros slithering up from the depths.

"Well, Octavio, it's been quite a while. I see Amaterasu is here as well. And who is this little morsel?"

Peony suppressed a shudder as the king looked down at her. She could see why Amaterasu didn't like Horrorboros. Their shrieking voice was sure to keep her up tonight and their eyes seemed all wrong.

"Peony. My daughter."

"Ahh the bear slayer I've heard much about you already little one. Our kin in the school of ink stained waters owes you a great deal."

"Bear Slayer? You... knew Grizz was a bear?" Peony asked confused.

"Indeed. We saw him emerge from the wreckage of the great ark. Before he had the idea of having your more foolish kin hunt our eggs he faced us for them himself. But what led to you joining this meeting yourself? I thought your delicate health and true identity kept you from the throne."

"True identity?

"I can smell the difference between an inkling and an octoling from miles away little bear slayer. Your pretty little necklace won't fool me."

Peony's eyes widened, hand jumping up to grab at her necklace, trying to step back only to run into Octavio's arm.

"It's okay Peony. Tell our honored guest what you wanted to ask."

"A request for me? Now whatever could you want from me?"

Peony sighed, before whistling for Buddy who quickly jumped up on her shoulder.

"While I was in the Splatlands I found Buddy in the desert but none of us can understand him. We were hoping you could, or someone in your delegation," Peony said, picking up Buddy to hold him out toward Horrorborros.

"Well isn't this interesting. A smallfry so far from his school. Now what happened to you little one?" Horrorborros before starting to speak in words none of the three could understand, Buddy squawking back.

"Hmm. You found an odd one. Different. Probably left in the desert purposefully."

"What?! But why?!"

"No room in the schools for one that's let that cursed inkantation in their hearts."

Peony drew Buddy closer to her at Horrorborros's glare.

"Right, if that's all you wanted Peony, why don't you head back to the palace," Octavio said gently.

Peony gently put Buddy on the ground behind her, before turning to look back at Horrorborros.

"I had one more question, if you would be willing to answer."

"Well aren't you a curious one little bear slayer. I suppose I could be convinced to answer."

Peony pauses for a moment as she tried to figure out how to word it. "What's with the Big Runs? I'm guessing it's because of them stealing your golden eggs, but why choose those locations? What makes Wahoo World and Inkblot Art Academy special? Why not go after Grizzco specifically?"

"If it was revenge for our eggs it would make more sense to do that, yes."

Peony froze as Horrorborros began to laugh, a shrill screeching noise that made even Octavio cringe as Peony and Amaterasu both jumped.

"No the big runs are calls from the gods! The cycle calls for bloodshed and we must answer, be it theirs or our own! Did you never see the seven rings shining in the skies?! Where the lights shine blood must be shed until the cycle is pleased. No matter what territory the lights shine upon we will do our duty! Even if that means you!"

Peony, stumbled backwards as Horrorborros began to laugh even harder.

"Right, that's enough questions Peony. Amaterasu, escort Peony back home. I can handle the rest of the meeting on my own," Octavio said, pushing Peony backwards slightly, voice tightly controlled.

"Yes sir!"

Peony stumbled to keep up as Amaterasu dragged her away, Horroborros's laugh echoing in her ears.

[riverstardis]

this life:

iain’s really pissing me off. he’s leading rita on for the sake of the sex and looking like a hero🙄

oh yeah there’s a sandwich thief

connie’s going to grace’s sports day

robyn saying she’s going to make david talk🙄 i hate people who are obsessed with talking like shut up for once omg

ahh carmel and steph sims. this is going to end badly.

lmaoo steph asks connie if she’s taking part in the parents races and she says she isn’t planning to but steph says it’s nice to make the effort and connie pulls trainers out of her bag skdkfkg

aww connie beats steph in the egg and spoon race and carmel says her mum’s gonna be so mad that she got beaten :( poor girl

lmaoo lily says someone’s eaten her quinoa and ethan says he’s going to canteen later and offers to get her something but she’s like “the deli on the high street does an acceptable noodle pot” and he says he’s not going to that but she interrupts him with her order and then walks off and he’s like “yeah. okay. that’s… fine”

cal goes “tell her to get her own flipping lunch” and ethan says he did offer so and cal’s like “well you’re the fool. anyway i thought you were gonna grow a pair. remember? be more cal?” and robyn’s like huh?

it’s funny how only cal and lily know the actual origin of ethan’s be more cal motto but others do hear about it over time (especially when ethan gets it tattooed and at cal’s funeral) but they must wonder where it actually came from

also i miss when storylines used to fade out like this rather than what happens now which is like okay that’s over we’re gonna pretend it never happened (like rash’s gang sl and teddy’s heart problems for example). that’s one of the things that makes me worry that jon sen’s “12 episode arcs” thing is going in the complete wrong direction

jacob, cal, and jez making fun of iain sjdkkfkg

steph saying to connie “you’re so different to the way grace described you, hardly a witch at all” SJDKKF

lmaoo connie mentioning the witch thing to grace and grace says she didn’t mean it and connie says she’s busted and starts laughing and grace goes “mum, you’re cackling” because her laugh really does sound like a cackle😭😭

uh oh big mac steals someone’s painkillers

and the kid saw him😬

no charlie don’t tell a little kid he needs to be the man of the house, he’s a CHILD

robyn and david accompanying their patient to the mortality cafe. and this is what leads to robyn meeting glen

big mac coming clean to charlie

lily’s got a padlock for her lunchbox lmao

ethan asks her how her noodle pot was and she goes “eh, overcooked” and he’s annoyed and says that she owes him £5.60. she gives him a tenner and he says he’s gonna keep the change and cal’s looking amused and proud sjskfkkg

i’ve forgotten who the lunch thief turns out to be in the end. actually thinking about it it might be jez but i’m not 100% on that

charlie puts the pills in his locker with the plan to put them somewhere they’ll be found the next day… yeahh unfortunately they’ll be found IN his locker

max playing chess

charlie walking big mac to the NA meeting🥺

iain decides the best way to hint to rita is to have her see him go for a drink with another woman🙄

and so begins robyn and david’s friendship🥺

[writing-is-a-martial-art]

It's the monster au for youth story that I thought up while at work last night, against my will, might I add, and it just kept going

Roles are so far assigned thusly:

R - absolute clown, picks fights with monsters and pays for it, in change of keeping his mouth shut, I am begging you, you moronic child

Mark - steadfast and sensible, will use force to restrain an unruly friend, in charge of standing between the monster and R, please just stay hidden, you are not helping

Bell - captain of this sinking ship, hangs up when the monsters call, in charge of pinging the group chat when monstering is happening

Evie - girlboss, can obliterate a monster in 3 seconds, in charge of not going off alone, I said, do not make me repeat myself

Cal - reasonable all round, reminds people to eat and sleep, in charge of everyone because they're all dumb, actually, why does he have to do everything around here

Jae - reluctantly helpful, longsuffering translator with a heart of fool's gold, in charge of spying on the idiots that snuck out to go monster hunting

Irina - always in her own way, furious all the time and yet it doesn't exhaust her, in charge of large, out-of-control feats of plant prowess to save the day very dramatically

Daniel - mom, dad, guardian, whatever, could rearrange anyone's guts and that's why he's reluctant to try with the monsters, in charge of bossing people into doing what Cal says

Savannah - spidey-monster-sense dialed up so high she IS high like all the time, not allowed to consume too much sugar or to be left alone with Bell, in charge of Knowing We've Been Found Out

Nyks - a monster's worst nightmare, perpetually ghosted by his own self, in charge of being used as a last resort because it takes a long time to charge him back up after he pushes a monster back into its dimension by virtue of sliding painfully through the fabric of reality himself first

The monsters are all only semi-corporeal, the kids' powers are slightly augmented and boosted and the only plot is survival and banter

And yeah, R is stuck with Mark again, of course

@writingonesdreams @akindofmagictoo I guess since you were interested

(This is just one idea, Bender. I have more of them)

!!!! This is absolutely delightful, I love them all. Please somebody make Cal and Daniel take a nap, they're exhausted. Evie and R should not be left without adult supervision. Savannah too, actually. Please get Irina to therapy she needs to work on her shit. I am adopting all of them BTW