#the way that tree grew around the pole

[sea-critter]

scenes from today’s walk

[mrsriddlenott]

The Fifth Day Of Smutmas

[smutmas masterlist][main masterlist]

~ Decorate With Me ~

Alpha!Mattheo Riddle x Bratty Omega!Reader

Summary: Alpha!Mattheo is too lazy to decorate the house for the holiday’s, thinking it useless, you however entice him to decorate one thing at a time as you strip for him, teasing him and escaping his grasp until all that’s left to do is place the ornaments on the tree, leaving him to decorate you.

- kinda AU but not really, Omegaverse and no mentions of magic, implied businessman Mattheo bc thats hot☺️ -

Warnings: 18+ Content!! Language, SexualTeasing, Stripping,Marking Kink, HairPulling(only a lil),Unprotected PinV, Cumplay, Breeding Kink, Consensual Sexual Punishment, D/S Dynamics.

“Come on Matty, pleeease” You begged, standing over Mattheo where he sat, his navy colored business suit contrasting the black leather of the large couch.

“I said no. What’s gotten into you, you always listen to me why the fuck aren’t you now?” He rolled his beautiful eyes away from yours and back to the book in front of him that gripped his attention in this moment far too much for your liking.

“I told you, I want you to decorate with me.” You pouted, crossing your arms and poking your hip out defiantly, “Me and my family decorated every year, and now that we live together you have to too. You’re just holding it off because you’re lazy, you put the tree up weeks ago and it’s still empty.” You sighed, pointing your arm in the direction of the large, bare Christmas tree.

“I think you’re forgetting that I do not have to do anything Princess, and you calling me lazy is rather funny considering I work for the money that pays for everything you can ever desire. So please decorate if you wish, but I’ll be sitting right here while you are.” Mattheo’s voice was laced with indifference as his eyes remained unmoving but focused on the pages in front of him, gripping his glass of bourbon tightly at your intrusion. After days of being denied his help you were fed up, you knew of one surefire way to grab your mates attention and that was of course, you naked in front of him ready to do anything he wished for. But….until he granted your wishes you wouldn’t be granting his.

“Fine. I will just do it all alone.” You stated innocently, walking off as you discreetly began tugging the thin straps of your red gown down your arms, allowing it to slip off your frame and pool around your ankles where it was kicked off towards the man behind you. Mattheo’s knowing gaze immediately latched onto your matching lingerie set and stockings with a scoff before locking with your eyes over your shoulder, licking his lips in an obvious attempt to control himself.

“What do you think you’re doing? Did you fucking plan this?” You giggle as his brows furrow, looking away from him and arching your back much more than necessary as you bent to grab the large box of Christmas decorations you were allowed to take from your parents when you moved in with Mattheo.

You felt his eyes dig into your behind, giving a little shake as you tossed the lid open and began grabbing the lights that were neatly coiled above the many layers of decorations, “This isn’t gonna work y’know,” Mattheo laughed, slamming his book shut and tossing it aside as he pushed himself further down the couch cushion, spreading his legs to give himself more space as he watched you move about the room. The way the hem of your lace underwear was cradling your curves in a teasing manner as your tits bounced against their harsh confines was cracking his reserve already, “You think I can’t resist you prancing about in that….” He spoke in a deeper voice now, clearly affected by your body and clearly trying to convince himself of what he was saying.

“I guess we’ll have to wait and see,” Your face grew warm as you twirled the string of lights around the base of the tree, avoiding his burning eyes as you sauntered around it teasingly, reminiscent of how you would a pole. His eyes trailed along your exposed thighs and stomach, aching to have you in a way he hadn’t felt since your last heat. You weren’t usually such a brat and he was loving every minute of it, he saw how you became whiny after he had told you just a few days ago that he was too tired to decorate, fully intending to do it the next night. However, when you stood there with crossed arms and a deep pout he just had to see it again. Now though, he was losing his patience, he had to have you and he’d do anything for it.

Once the lights shone brightly up and down the tree you stepped back to observe your handy work, placing your hands on your hips as you looked over your shoulder to find Mattheo’s eyes raking up your body until they fell into yours with a silent order you weren’t going to follow. You could sense his desire to gain control again as he always had, but you wanted more from him, you needed more. His little reaction had done nothing to stray you from your plan, you saw in his dark eyes that he wouldn’t last long.

His eyes followed your movements as your fingertips ghosted up your body, tickling against your flesh to slowly grasp the latch of your bra in your steady hands, turning back to observe the tree as though nothing was happening. Mattheo’s breath hitched as you slowly unhooked your bra with your back still facing him, your shoulder blades moving teasingly as you shoved the material onto the floor in front of the partially decorated tree, still not turning to show him your exposed chest. He hissed as you stepped forward again, moving away and out of his sight to grab more decorations, his pants were tightened around his growing dick as he took the last swig of his drink before abruptly standing to follow you.

You noticed his presence behind you immediately, the tension in the room growing as soon as he stepped through the entrance, “You think you can tease me like that?” He asked, voice low as he approached your turned back slowly, each step sending a shiver down your spine and directly to your core as his expensive dress shoes hit the wood below them tauntingly. He chuckled, clearly thinking he had you cornered as he grew closer, gripping your hip in his aggressive hold as he leant over your nude shoulder, his warm breath against your neck filling you with a mix of expectance and defiance of his actions.

In one quick motion, Mattheo’s strong hand spun you to face him, almost knocking you off your feet as they attempted to catch up with the maneuver. His eyes met yours before trailing down your chest with a genuine smile, “You’re so fucking gorgeous,” he sighed, his free hand finding your neck as he began melting into your touch. You allowed him to pull you into him, almost touching your lips together before you pulled away, “I need to get this box to the living room, we can get back to this after,” You almost let out a chuckle at the mans dumbfounded expression as you grab the box behind you, conveniently hiding your chest as you maneuvered around his still figure to the door behind him, “It would go way faster if I had some help though.”

“Oh for fucks sake,” Mattheo mumbles to himself as you leave him alone in the spare room, his mind racing with ways of gaining power over the situation but each one required focus he couldn’t obtain while you strutted around the house half naked. So instead he opted to give in….just this once.

The echo of Mattheo’s footsteps didn’t shock you, nor did the growl that escaped his lips as he took in your now entirety bare ass in front of him, the only remaining part of your outfit being the white and red stockings that were driving him absolutely insane with each passing second. “Okay! You win, give me the fucking Santa,” Mattheo snapped, making you turn to him with a wide smile before throwing yourself onto him for a hug, almost immediately stepping out of his grasp quickly as he attempted to pull you back in.

He huffed behind you as you handed him item after item to find a place for in your home, still solely focused on your almost fully nude body in front of him even as he placed miniature Santas and reindeers all around your house. Eventually however all that was left was to place the ornaments on the tree which only took an excruciating 30 minutes before he could finally have what he wanted.

Your face smashed into the couch as Mattheo aggressively shoved you forward, tugging your hips upward as his hand firmly placed against your face, “Do you need me to fuck this attitude out of you Princess?” Your incoherent mumbles of yes go unheard as he forces his fingers into you hair, tugging you upward and against his clothed chest, “I asked you a question,” He whispered against the shell of your ear, nibbling on your flesh before he spoke again, “Now fucking answer it.” He spat out, shoving you back forward as you begged him to fuck you senseless, his hand finding it’s spot against the side of your face once more as he tugged at his belt buckle. The clinking metal sending shocks of pleasure to your core, drenching your entrance as it ached to have your Alpha.

In a matter of seconds, Mattheo tugged his dress pants and boxers only partially down his thighs, leaving you fully exposed and vulnerable in front of him as he lined his leaking cock up to your entrance before plowing into you with no real warning. Stretching you out almost beyond your limit as he immediately set a steady, rough pace to his thrusts, grunting above you as you clutched onto the leather of the couch. “Oh fuck Mattheo, you feel so good,”

Your almost incoherent babbles of pleasure egg him in as he snaps his hips faster against yours, eyes trained on where he disappeared deep into you, pulling out almost completely before slamming back into, pulling a scream of a moan from the back of your throat as he groans at the sound. The feeling of your walls clenching around him, silently begging him to stay inside of you, urging him to fill you up with his cum almost made him lose focus of his goal, snapping his hips harder and faster, his public bone bouncing against your clit every few thrusts as he built up his release.

Your mind was hazy as his warm, rough hand held you against the heating leather, the grip of his other hand on your hip surely leaving an entirely intentional print of his hand that had your mind going dumb as you clamped down around him, your legs shaking each time his tip slammed against you g-spot sending you soaring as your mind fogged, so close to your orgasm it felt almost painful.

“Oh fuck Matty please” You practically screamed, begging to cum as Mattheo slammed into you, the sound of damp skin smacking together echoing across the hardwood floors as you mewled and whined below him, his hard grip being the only thing keeping you in your position as you absentmindedly began bucking back against him, feeding his ego as you bounced on his cock, meeting his thrusts with a lazy smile on your face.

Your moans became whimpers as your walls clamped down on him tightly, unrelenting and desperately trying to hold him inside while you came around him, your legs were shaking uncontrollably against him as you quickly approached your high falling over the edge as Mattheo’s thrusts sped up, hitting your g-spot repeatedly, almost overstimulating you as he grew sloppy. His hips stuttered against you, groaning above you before he was pulling out of you entirely causing a desperate whine to escape you, sending him flying over the edge, shaking uncontrollably as thick spurts of his cum covered your back.

You whined below him, unable to form full words as you clenched around nothing, still coming down from your high as you almost cried at the lack of the full feeling Mattheo always left after filling you and stuffing his fingers back inside to ensure nothing came out. You wiggled your hips as if expecting him to go again just to fill you with his seed.

“Oh my pretty, bratty Baby,” Mattheo mockingly pouted down to you as he mindlessly played with his release covering your back “Are you mad I didn’t fill you up Princess?” Mattheo asks, knowing the obvious answer as he laughs over you condescendingly, “But I thought you wanted me to help you decorate, isn’t that why you thought this all out? Well….think of it as your punishment for being such a little brat to your Alpha.” He chuckled at himself, falling down beside you as he tugged your face into his chest, whispering to you that you did good for him and looked absolutely gorgeous covered in his cum.

~~~~

Event Taglist (lmk if u want on, off, or changed ur user)

@timmytime17 @talia-scar123 @spencer-reids-wife @ttsbaby01 @animorose @whydoireadanymore @thievin-stealing @spiderman-stilinski @evycloudberry @shady-the-simp @ashisabitgay @porterport @callsignwidow @cicicicicisstuff @mattheoriddleswifee @junebugin-july @moonlightreader649 @devotedlyshadowytheorist @rubyliquor @perverteddsdreams @mildly-delulu @fairydimples07 @shadowmoonlight0604 @80scinemvasworld @nevillescomslut @annaisabookworm @abaker74 @athenalikethegoddess @limeren @h-------n @kezibear @mattheoriddlemarcuslopez @lovemelikecrazyiloveyoucrazy @curiousshifter101 @tobyr68 @spididerman @hedwigprewett12 @urmomsgirlfriend1 @kiwi475 @stellasdelusions

[thatdammchickennugget]

White Lie

PART FOUR

pairing - lorenzo berkshire x fem!reader

summary - After accidentally telling your mom you have a new boyfriend, you have to resort to your last option and ask your old friend turned enemy for help.

warnings - fake dating trope, cursing, mention of cheating, some bullying, grumpy x sunshine vibes, university au set in the states, only one tent trope?, mention of blood and injury, hospital

wordcount - 3.4k

series masterlist

As Enzo and you arrived at the campground where your family was celebrating the Fourth of July, the familiar sights of tents and picnic tables greeted you, members of your family flitting around the space as they set up decorations and prepared the grill to get dinner started. 

You had been driving, lost in your thoughts for the last half hour about the surprisingly pleasant car ride. Both you and Enzo were in a weirdly good mood today, playfully bantering instead of shooting insults at each other for once, and it made the journey feel lighter and more enjoyable than the other times you had found yourselves alone in a car together recently.

Reflecting on the recent changes in your dynamic with Enzo, you couldn't help but acknowledge the shift that had been happening in these last ten weeks. The tension that had once filled the air between you two seemed to dissipate slowly but gradually. 

At school, you noticed a huge difference - you were a lot less hostile towards each other. You even found yourselves exchanging greetings in the halls, sometimes even sending each other a funny TikTok that reminded you of your chaotic families, a far cry from the days of complete avoidance over the last years.

A particular incident came to mind, one that had surprised you greatly. Last week in the library, when Enzo's friends had been getting rowdy once again, distracting you and the other occupants of the tables near the group, you had shot them a pointed glare. To your amazement, Enzo had stepped in, telling his friends to quiet down, offering a small awkward smile in your direction. It was a small gesture, but it spoke volumes about the changing dynamics between you.

As you drove into the tranquil campground, the sun casting a warm golden glow over the lush surroundings, your excitement grew palpable. The scent of pine trees filled the air, and the distant sound of a bubbling stream provided a soothing backdrop. You did not care about the holiday, to be honest, but the annual camping trip was something you found yourself excited for every year. 

You parked the car and stepped out, greeted by the familiar embrace of your mom and dad. Their smiles were infectious, and you couldn't help but return it tenfold. The anticipation of spending some quality time with your family in such a serene setting was a feeling like no other and you couldn't wait to find your brother to discuss what trail you were going to hike this time.

"Come on, hurry up and set up your tent before dinner is ready!" your mom chimed, her eyes twinkling mischievously. She pointed to the edge of the lot, right next to the trees marking the entrance to the forest. You couldn't help but notice the spot was nowhere near the other tents. "We saved you a special spot. I thought you might appreciate a little privacy."

You shot her a glare as you blushed at the implication. "Mom, stop being weird," you tried to laugh off your embarrassment, shouldering your bags to get away from her teasing. Meeting Enzo's eyes, you playfully rolled your eyes when he wiggled his eyebrows at you.

With a shared laugh, you made your way to the spot they had saved for you. As you began setting up your tent, the chirping of birds and the rustling of leaves provided a calming soundtrack to the evening.

Enzo got right to work on the tent as you watched in amusement. He was struggling to figure out the poles, looking confused enough that you almost took pity on him. But you decided to see if he was able to figure it out on his own.

As he wrestled with the tent poles, you couldn't resist a teasing remark. "You know, I've seen Caleb build sand castles with more finesse."

He shot you a mock glare, his lips twitching with a smirk. "Oh please, like you're the Bear Grylls of camping. I bet you're secretly hoping I'll figure this out so you don't have to do any actual work."

You raised an eyebrow, feigning innocence. "Oh, of course not. Because clearly, you've got everything under control. I'm just here for moral support and to witness this epic battle of man versus tent."

Enzo's jaw tightened but his eyes flashed teasingly. "You know, if you spent half as much time helping as you do running that mouth, maybe we'd actually get this done before the food is ready."

You smirked, leaning against a nearby tree. "Ah, but where's the fun in that? Watching you struggle is the highlight of my day. Besides, I wouldn't want to steal the spotlight from your riveting tent-building performance."

Enzo shot you a playful scowl, shaking his head in mock disbelief. "Remind me again why I agreed to fake date you?"

You chuckled, enjoying the banter. "Uhm, you were the one to propose the idea, remember?"

Enzo's expression shifted to one of mock horror. "I must've been temporarily insane."

You couldn't help but chuckle at his dramatics. "Oh, come on, Enzo. It's not that bad. I only make fun of you every now and then."

He shot you a playful glare. "Gee, thanks for the mercy. I don't know how I'll survive with such generosity."

Rolling your eyes, you retorted, "Well, someone's got to keep your ego in check. Can't have you thinking too highly of yourself, now can we?"

ੈ♡˳

Later that day, as the sun began its descent, casting a golden hue over the campground, you sat on a log in front of the the crackling campfire. You sat shoulder to shoulder with Erica, the two of you sharing a blanket with Enzo’s mom, Michelle, on your other side. Across the fire on another log sat your own mom, next to Jenny who was cuddled up to her fiancé. With marshmallows roasting and laughter in the air, the atmosphere was cozy and relaxed, the noise of the other men and Caleb setting up fireworks down by the lake a gentle backdrop to the scene.

However, the mood shifted as the conversation turned to you and Enzo. Your sister Jenny, seemingly still trying her hardest to make you uncomfortable, leaned forward eagerly. "So, spill the beans, y/n. How's it going with Enzo?"

You felt a flush of heat rise to your cheeks as all eyes turned to you. Erica grinned, squeezing your hand, while your mom and Michelle exchanged knowing glances. You cleared your throat, trying to gather your thoughts. "Uh, well, you know, it's going... fine," you stammered, attempting to keep up the façade. After a – not to toot your own horn, but – stellar performance this afternoon, you had let your guard down, almost forgetting that you were meant to act all lovey dovey with the annoyingly tall boy.

Jenny leaned forward, her expression skeptical. "Oh, come on. You can't expect us to believe that. We all know how you two used to be like cats and dogs. Are we supposed to believe that all of a sudden you're in love?"

You shifted uncomfortably under her gaze. Apparently your little talk on mother’s day hadn’t gotten her off your back after all. "Well, people change, Jenny. Enzo and I have just... matured," you replied, hoping to deflect her suspicions. “Maybe you should try that too.”

Jenny's eyes narrowed. "Matured? Please. I've seen more chemistry between a rock and a hard place. If you ask me, this whole thing seems fishy."

You bristled at her words, trying to maintain your composure despite the growing unease in your gut. "What's that supposed to mean?" you shot back, your tone sharper than you intended.

Jenny shrugged nonchalantly, her gaze steady. "Just that it seems a little too convenient, don't you think? It sounds like a load of bull to me."

Your jaw tightened as you fought to keep your temper in check. "Well, believe what you want, Jenny. But the truth is, Enzo and I are together, whether you like it or not," you replied, your voice tight.

Your mother, sensing the tension, finally interjected with a gentle tone, "Come on, girls, let's not ruin the mood. We're here to have a good time, remember?"

You took a deep breath, trying to calm your racing thoughts, but before you could respond to her, a pained yell echoed across the lake, cutting through the air like a knife.

The yell was unmistakably Enzo's. Your heart skipped a beat as you turned towards the direction of the sound. There, on the edge of the lake, you saw him lying on the ground, his leg bent at an unnatural angle, a look of agony contorting his features.

"Oh my god!" you shouted, the panic evident in your voice as you sprinted towards him, your feet pounding against the dirt.

Erica and Michelle followed closely behind you, their faces etched with concern. Jenny and your mother trailed behind, their voices a distant murmur amidst the rush of adrenaline coursing through your veins.

When you reached his side, you dropped to your knees beside him, your hands trembling as you assessed his injury. His leg was clearly broken, and he winced as he tried to move it.

"What happened?" You asked urgently, your heart pounding in your chest.

Enzo gritted his teeth, his breath coming in ragged gasps. "It hurts like hell," he managed to choke out, his voice strained with pain.

You glanced around frantically, trying to think of what to do. "We need to get you to a hospital," you said, looking around to find the closest adult. Michelle nodded in agreement, her hands shaking. Frank, Enzo’s dad, was already fishing his keys out of his pockets but he was stopped by your own dad putting a hand on his shoulder.

“You can’t drive him, you’ve been drinking all day,” your dad told him firmly.

“We’ve all been drinking, Will. Come on, it’ll take ages for an ambulance to get out here,” Frank tried to push past your dad.

Jenny's voice cut through the tense atmosphere. "Y/n hasn't had a drink yet. She should drive him," she pointed out, her tone surprisingly calm given the circumstances.

You blinked, momentarily taken aback by her suggestion. It made sense though; you were the only one who hadn't indulged in any alcohol since arriving at the campground, afraid that the alcohol would have you spilling your secret.

Your mother's expression softened as she looked at you, her eyes filled with gratitude for your sister's observation. "Jenny's right," she agreed, her voice steady despite the underlying worry. "Are you okay to drive, sweetheart?"

You nodded, even though it might have been the last thing you wanted to do right now. As Mason and Frank helped Enzo into your car, your heart pounded with worry. The adrenaline was coursing through your veins, making you feel hyper-aware of every detail around you. Without another word, you hurried to the driver's side of the car, sliding into the seat while trying not to look at the bleeding gash running down Enzo’s leg.

Michelle started to climb into the car as well, but Enzo stopped her with a strained smile. "Mom, I'll be fine. You guys should still enjoy your night," he insisted, trying to mask the pain in his voice.

Michelle hesitated, torn between her concern and her desire to let him handle the situation. After a moment, she relented, placing a gentle hand on his shoulder. "Alright, honey. But please, call us if you need anything. We'll be right here," she said, her voice filled with love and worry.

Enzo managed a weak nod before closing the car door, wincing as he adjusted his position to find a comfortable spot. As Mason and Frank stepped back, you wished Michelle would be tagging along.

With a deep breath, you focused on the task at hand. Starting the car, you carefully navigated out of the campground, your mind racing. The nearest hospital wasn't too far away, but every minute felt like an eternity as you drove.

Enzo remained surprisingly calm during the drive, his breathing steady despite the obvious pain he was in. You stole a glance at him every now and then, fighting hard to keep your nausea in check.

Enzo, wanting to lighten the mood, attempted a joke. "Well, this wasn't exactly how I planned on spending the Fourth of July," he said with a weak chuckle.

Your nerves were already frayed, and his attempt at levity grated on you. With a sharp tone, you snapped, "This isn't the time for jokes, Enzo."

Something looking awfully close to hurt flashed in his eyes, and he fell silent for the rest of the drive. Guilt gnawed at you as you realized you had lashed out at him when he was already in pain. You wanted to reach out, to apologize, but the words caught in your throat. The rest of the drive was tense and silent, broken only by the occasional direction from him as you navigated the unfamiliar streets to the hospital.

ੈ♡˳

Enzo's demeanor was subdued now, the pain medication and sedation taking its toll. As you sat beside him, you couldn't shake off the guilt for snapping at him earlier. Watching him wince as the doctor stitched up his wound only intensified your feelings of remorse. But he seemed to be in a preppy mood again, the drugs clearly doing their job, his words slightly slurred as he tried to make conversation.

"Hey, you know what's funny?" he mumbled, lips stretching into an almost cute looking grin.

"What's that?" you asked softly.

Enzo's eyes twinkled as he met your gaze. "I was just thinking, this is the most action I've ever gotten on the Fourth of July," he joked, nodding down to the doctor focused on closing his wound.

You couldn't help but let out a soft chuckle. "Well, you certainly know how to make the holiday memorable," you replied.

Enzo's grin widened slightly, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Hey, I aim to please," he quipped, surprising you when one of his hands reached out to grab yours. Weirdly enough, you didn’t feel the urge to pull away.

As the doctor finished up with the stitches, Enzo let out a relieved sigh, his body visibly relaxing. You stayed by his side, as he discarded his gloves, explaining that a nurse would be with you soon to put on his cast.

As the doctor left the room, leaving the two of you alone, a palpable silence settled between you. You sat there, still holding his hand, unsure of what to say next. It was then that Enzo spoke up, voice still slurred.

"Why do you look like that?" he asked, a finger coming up to poke at the frown between your brows.

With a sigh, you pushed his hand away from your face. “Like what?”

“All pouty,” he told you, this time attempting to tug at a strand of your hair. “Shouldn’t you be happy about seeing me all miserable.”

“Miserable? You’re high off pain meds right now, I think you’re actually having a blast,” you laughed, but he was still looking at you questioningly. “But I have to admit it’s pretty entertaining. I just hope we can get out of here soon. I hate hospitals.”

His brows furrowed as his eyes wandered away from you, falling to the poster’s around the walls of the room. “Do you know what I hate?”

Enzo's question caught you off guard, and you couldn't help but raise an eyebrow in curiosity. "What do you hate?" you asked, intrigued by the sudden shift in conversation.

He let out a sigh, his gaze returning to yours with a mixture of frustration and determination. "Your cheating cunt of an ex,” he stated bluntly, his tone leaving no room for argument.

Your breath caught in your throat at the mention of your ex-boyfriend , surprised by the intensity of Enzo's words. "Brad?" you echoed, unsure of where this was coming from.

Enzo nodded, his jaw tightening with a sense of resolve. "Yeah, Brad. I hate him," he repeated, his voice tinged with bitterness.

You blinked in surprise, taken aback by his sudden confession. "Well, then we have that in common I guess,," you mumbled, caught off guard by him bringing this up. Maybe he was even more out of it than you had thought.

Enzo let out a humorless chuckle, his expression darkening. "I always have," he continued. “He never deserved you. He never did.”

Enzo's words hung heavy in the air, casting a shadow over the otherwise quiet hospital room. You couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions swirling inside you - surprise, confusion, and even a hint of gratitude.

"Thank you?" you said, still trying to process Enzo's unexpected revelation. The idea of him harboring such strong feelings towards your ex-boyfriend was a revelation in itself, considering the tumultuous history between you. But he was probably just saying random things now. He hadn’t cared about you for years, so why would that suddenly have changed over the last year?

Enzo's expression softened slightly, his gaze meeting yours with a hint of vulnerability. "I need you to know that," he affirmed, his voice carrying a weight of sincerity that caught you off guard. "I never thought he was good enough for you. And what he did..." Enzo's voice trailed off, his jaw clenching as if holding back more words.

You swallowed hard, feeling a lump form in your throat. Memories of the pain and heartache he had caused flooded back.

"I know," you assured quietly, feeling a surge of emotion welling up inside you.

Enzo's eyes softened as he gently squeezed your hand. A ghost of a smile tugged at the corners of his lips, and for the first time in a long while, there was no trace of the usual teasing or sarcasm in his expression.

Before you could dwell on it further, the door creaked open, and a nurse bustled into the room, interrupting the quiet moment. She greeted you both with a warm smile, her cheerful demeanor a stark contrast to the heaviness that had settled over the room.

"Alright, let's get that cast on, shall we?" she chirped, bustling over to the bedside with a tray of supplies.

Enzo nodded, releasing your hand reluctantly as he shifted his attention to the nurse. You watched in silence as she expertly went about her task, mind still reeling as you thought about what just happened between the two of you.

ੈ♡˳

As the gentle glow of the lantern outside cast soft shadows against the walls of the tent, you sat there in the quiet darkness, the events of the day replaying in your mind like a broken record. Enzo lay beside you, his breathing steady and even as he slept soundly, unaware of the turmoil raging inside you.

Caleb, lying between you, stirred slightly in his sleep, mumbling something incoherent before settling back down. He had insisted on sleeping with you tonight tonight, and you had happily agreed, eager not to be alone with Enzo.

You couldn't shake the feeling of unease that lingered in the air, the memory of his's pained yell echoing in your mind like a haunting refrain. The image of him lying on the ground, his leg twisted at an unnatural angle, sent shivers down your spine.

But even more unsettling were the words he had spoken in the hospital room, the unexpected converation stirring up a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. The sincerity in his voice, the vulnerability in his eyes - it left you feeling unsettled yet strangely comforted, a confusing mix of thoughts swirling inside you.

As you sat there in the quiet darkness, the rhythmic sound of Enzo's breathing filling the air, you couldn't help but wonder about the shifting dynamics between you. The tension that had once defined your relationship seemed to have softened, replaced by a newfound understanding and a tentative sense of connection.

You glanced over at his sleeping form, his features softened, a faint smile playing at the corners of his lips. Despite everything that had happened, there was a sense of peace in this moment, a fleeting moment of calm.

But amidst the uncertainty and confusion, one thing remained clear - there was still so much left unsaid between you and Enzo. So many questions left unanswered, and so many wounds left unhealed.

Series Taglist - @iamaslytherin0 @bath1lda @hereticdance @ohmaigwad @wordsarelife @pinkposttragedy @allshitsangiggles @hoeforvinniehackerrr @aheadfullofdreams @mildly-delulu @h3artz4soph @sunasbbie @marsbars09 @vcosette @meepycheep @aglady13 @rinalouu @floswife @ariensversion @agent-tempest @s0urw00lf @thebiggestnaturaldisaster @pinkestfloyd @xlinxdax0704 @kennedy-brooke @iamaconfusedpan @keira-kaz2y5 @chulabeans @l0v3do11 @acourtoflostandwanderingstars @catiwinky @istill-dream-ofyou @pinktreee @ceehance @lizhub @iamgayforyourmom1501 @feistyfox47 @i-think-you-are-gr8 @bigbobass @cas-planet @csmt_m @selyselyselyse @mrsriddles-blog @the-sylver-dragon @poppysrin @camille-1019 @laniirackssss @slvtfortheo @chaoticweirdloyalroyaltrouble @chosenoneslver @txzii @c0rnf1akessss @itsarajr

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[strniohoeee]

Wait Line

Pairing: Matt Sturniolo X Female Reader

Synopsis: After getting Matt to teach her how to drive, Y/N takes some unexpected turns that leave Matt scared🤭

Warnings⚠️: None really, small snippet of reckless driving kinda??🤞🏽. This one’s also a short blurb idea!

Song for the imagine: Highway Tune- Greta Van Fleet

We’re stopping on the highway girl

Because I want to burn my gas

There one girl I know

That I’m never gonna pass

“Teach you how to drive?” Matt questioned looking up from his phone

“Well yes…who else am I going to ask?” I said throwing my hands up

“Uhh your mom, your dad, uhhh literally anyone else but me” he said laughing

“My parents are scared of my driving” I said

“And you want me to get in the car with you after saying that?” He said raising an eyebrows

“Come on Matt please! That was when I was 18, and I’m 20 now I think I know how to drive better” I said begging him

“Uhhh okay fine, but please don’t kill us” he said standing up

“YESS” I shouted jumping around

Matt had driven us to a secluded parking lot because he was really scared I’d hit a car, a tree or a person. I found him to be dramatic, but whatever.

“Okay soo the left is to stop and the right is to go” he said looking down at the pedals

“Matt I’m not an idiot I’ve driven before” I said looking over at him

“When’s the last time you drove?” He said holding his ear out to hear me

“Two years ago” I said rolling my eyes

“Exactly! Now hush and let me say what I need to say” he said smiling at me

“You’re such a dork” I replied pushing him away

“This is your gear shift, those are the signals and uhh yeah that’s about it” he said

“Perfect” I said putting the car in drive

“Okay so I want you to go to that pole right there nice and slow” he said pointing at the red pole

I nodded my head and began to roll off slowly

“Okay now some gas would be nice, so we could get there” he said

“So sassy Matthew” I said scoffing

I hit the gas a bit too hard and we went flying

“OKAY STOP” he yelled out

I slammed the brakes, and we both jolted forward a bit

“Jesus woman….you're going to give us whiplash” he said looking over at me

“I’m sorry” I said laughing

Matt had me drive into parking spots, reverse and even do a U-turn to practice. I started to get the hang of it and was getting confident….too confident.

I began to drive a bit too fast not seeing a pothole.

“WATCH OUT” Matt yelled pulling the steering wheel a bit

“WHAT” I screamed letting go of the wheel

“PUT YOUR HANDS ON THE WHEEL” he yelled back, and I grabbed the wheel

I stopped and put the car in park

“Matt what the fuck” I said looking over at him

“That was a huge pothole my tire would’ve been fucked” he said laughing

“Well I would’ve got you a new one” I said in a matter of fact way

“Uhh no tires are expensive, and you are supposed to actively avoid potholes; so you’re not constantly fucking up your tires” he said rubbing his head

“Ahh I see” I said nodding my head

“Jesus save us all please” he said putting his hands up in prayer

“Ohh stop being a big baby” I said

I put the car in drive and began to drive again on my own, and Matt wasn’t really paying attention. I figured I was doing a good job.

I wanted to have a bit of fun, and it was 2AM, so the roads were pretty empty. A smirk grew on my face and I decided to leave the parking lot.

“Where are you going?” He said looking around

“I’m taking us back home” I said

“Do you know the way?” He asked

“Yes I do, don’t worry sit back relax I got this” I said patting his arm

He let out a sigh and reluctantly nodded his head. However I decided I didn’t want to go home, but rather someplace better….on the freeway

“This isn’t the way back to the house Y/N” he said looking around

“I know a shortcut” I said lying to him

He was looking down at his phone, and I got onto the freeway and merged over.

“WHAT THE FUCK ARE YOU DOING” he screamed looking at me

“Taking the shortcut duh” I said looking over at him

“You can barely drive in a parking lot…get off of the freeway” he said

“No I got it” I replied

“Pull over and let me take over” he said back

“NOO I GOT IT” I said loudly

“We have to get off the freeway” he said getting nervous

“Okay fine” I said and looked down

Instead of pulling over, or getting off at the exit I decided to hit the gas harder. It was 65 MPH, and I decided to go 85

“Y/N STOP THE FUCKING CAR WERE FLYING AND YOU COULD LOSE CONTROL” he said bracing himself

“ISNT THIS FUNNNN” I yelled as I was flying down the road

“WE ARE GOING TO GET PULLED OVER STOP IT NOW” he yelled

I rolled my eyes and began to slow down and pulled over on the shoulder so we could switch. Once we switched Matt was a bit more upset now.

“Jesus Y/N what the hell were you thinking?” He said taking the exit to head back home

“I just wanted to have some fun” I said shrugging my shoulders

“Fun? You barely know how to drive in a parking lot” he said scoffing

“Well my teacher wasn’t paying attention…he was on his phone” I said poking him

“Well yeah I didn’t expect you to go flying down the freeway” he said smacking my hand away

“Oh come on Matt…live a little” I said rolling my eyes

“Live a little? You damn near killed us” he said

“But I didn’t” I said pointing at him

Matt gave me a hard glance before a smile appeared on his face, and he started to laugh.

“God never do that again” he said laughing

“I promise I won’t” I said laughing

We laughed the whole way home, and I was pretty sure Matt would never let me drive his car again.

“Thanks for the lesson” I said as I shut the passenger door

“Anytime” he said locking the door

“Mmm same time next week?” I asked him

“Oh fuck no…never again actually” he said looking over at me

“Uhh whatever loser” I said back

We laughed about it the whole night….Matt was the best, and I was so glad he was there to take the joy ride with me!

The End

Hope you guys liked this short little blurb. I wasn’t so sure what to write or how to make it interesting, but I hope you liked it😋. Love yallll🥹🖤🖤

-J💅🏽

@ssturniolofilmss

[wolven91]

Breelu & Moisés - Birthday Surprise

Despite the steep incline, Moisés found that he was barely out of breath, yet he still had a mildly concerning light headedness about him. He hadn't been able to shake the faint vertigo all morning, but he'd honestly expected to feel worse from the hiking. Moisés took a moment to rest, although found that he still didn't need to 'catch his breath'.

Breelu was waiting for him up ahead, his magnificent blue and white feathers with the black highlights always captivated the human, he was surrounded by shin high flowers, that parked the edge of the winding path up the mountain. The flowers were upside down, the petals protecting the plant.

Having already asked when they had first started their journey, Breelu had explained that the flowers open at night and tiny insects that light up make it a sight to be seen. The young man had made a mental note to come back here before they left the avian home planet and went home.

"Nearly there." Breelu offered, as Moisés trudged the few steps that separated the two.

"So, is this not, like a popular place?" Asked the human as he gazed across the gigantic forest treetops.

The avian home world capital was as alien as any city had come before. The avian home was covered in a genus of trees that put red woods to shame. Their whole city was built within the bows of these colossal natural towers. The air was warm and clean with only areas of necessity demanding that they clear the forest for landing pads and energy plants.

Moisés had joked that he'd never guessed that Breelu was an 'elf'. The joke missed unfortunately as the translation came across as 'fae' which, thanks to the draconians, translated as slang for humans.

"Of course this is popular. This is one of the most famous pillars in the area." Breelu retorted as he looped a scaled arm around Moisés's shoulders where a taloned hand slipped beneath the human's arm and held him to the avian's fluffy hip.

"How come we haven't seen anyone then? We've been walking for a good hour, and no one's passed us, either up or down."

Breelu's laugh echoed off the rocky wall and into the tree line that was abuzz with its own life. A large blue, white, and black wing buffeted Moisés causing dirt and wind to pick up ever so slightly. The human flinched and briefly raised an arm to defend his face, but the wing merely hovered there.

Until the penny dropped.

"They fly up don't they?" The young man asked, rather sheepishly. He had often fallen into the trap of thinking Breelu was a human, just a taller, feathery human. But that wasn't the case. Breelu's claws and sharp beak were an evolution as a dedicated hunter of the sky. All avians thought with the concept of a 3D space. They were not tethered to the ground by something as mundane as gravity.

"At least you're pretty." The large avian chuckled, jovially jabbing Moisés's bruised ego.

"What else do I-" But the human's words were lost as they finally made it to the top of the spire of rock. The spiralling path had finally deposited them high up into the sky were the trees that grew in the lower areas fell away. A threatening gust assaulted the pair, but Breelu weathered it stoically while his arm and wing caged the human in place. Moisés didn't falter with Breelu's firm hand supporting him.

The human was awed by his uninterrupted view the world.

There was no other word than 'awe' to describe the unending sea of trees that covered the planet from pole to pole. To his east, was the Haratooa Mountains, the wood pillars there were thin and whistled as the winds blew through them apparently, whereas to the south was the great forest sea, not a 'sea' in the sense of open water, but the forest there grew in a continent sized basin. The deeper one walked, the closer the trees grew and the darker the world became, until one made their way into the subterranean world of the aracnae.

The avains ruled the skies, whereas the aracnae ruled the ground and all that was below it. Whilst the avian home world was large, it was hollow; two species called this world home and shared it as such.

"This is amazing." Moisés whispered.

"Happy birthday Moisés." Whispered Breelu back, squeezing him into his hip once more while the human hugged him back, rubbing his cheek into the silky soft feathered of his loving partner.

"This is the best present." Declared the young man happily.

"Oh. Well. this. isn't your present?" Explained Breelu haltingly, suddenly more concerned that the avian may have missed his mark with his idea.

"It's not? What.?"

Breelu revealed a harness, already placed on the mountain top inside a bag that Moisés recognised as Breelu's.

"I thought you might want to go for a trip?" The giant birdlike alien offered gently.

"Are you sure? I know with me, we're too heavy for flight. It's a strain for you." The human retorted, not wanting to tire his lover out. This view was good enough for him, he didn't need to go any further if it was an effort.

"On the station, yes. But here? Above the thermals from the underground lava runs? Moisés, would you like to know what it's like to truly fly?"

== 0 ==

A mere ten minutes later, there was a human strapped to the front of a crouching avian, so the shorter of the two could stand on his own feet. A bead of sweat ran down the side of his face as he looked out over the sheer drop of the mountainside. If he fell right now, it wouldn't be much of an issue; the path down was only about ten or twenty feet down.

"I'm going to shove off from the edge to clear the mountain, so it's going to be a sudden jerk first, okay?" Explained Breelu helpfully.

Damn.

Without asking for permission, the avian coiled in an almost imperceptible manner, before his powerful legs exploded outwards, launching the two into nothingness. The weakened gravity of the planet still pulled at the human, but the harness held him in place as the avian at his back wing's opened and he was pulled soring into the sky.

Moisés could feel the heat of the thermal updraft washing over him despite only seeing the mountain fall away and treetops everywhere else. His fists gripped the straps of the harness has the man's heart fluttered in fear and panic as he eyed the ground nervously.

"Chin up!" Called Breelu directly into his ear, over the wind that deafened him to most other noises.

Obeying the human lifted his chin and saw the horizon.

A beautiful rainbow of colours as a foreign sun with strange wavelengths played with an alien atmosphere. The human's eyes watered from both the wind that stung him as well as the beauty that assaulted his senses.

Moisés felt the curve of Breelu's sickle-like claw tickling his fingers, gently easing his grip until the scaled arms took his hands and spread his arms wide.

With his chin up, his arms spread like wings, the young man discovered the sensation of flight and was immediately in love.

A euphoric sense of freedom washed over him as Breelu gently steered them along the valley, following the invisible thermals that raised the pair up and into the sky.

[r/WolvensStories]

[Ko-Fi]

[inacatastrophicmind]

Suptober23, day 4: Nimbus

Most times, Cas worked alone in the garden. It wasn’t that Dean didn’t like the garden, quite the contrary, actually, he loved it, but he didn’t have Cas’ green thumb, no matter how much Cas insisted that Dean was good with plants; after all, he had helped Cas plant most of the flowers, bushes and trees that made their garden back then when they were reforming their house. He couldn’t deny that he had some basic knowledge about gardening, mostly thanks to Cas’ lessons, but Cas was the gardener and the expert.

Still, Dean sometimes joined Cas, mostly when Cas needed a helping hand or when he wanted to show Dean something, but most of the times, Dean didn’t intervene in Cas’ work in the garden, wanting to give his husband a space of his own, just like Cas barely interrupted Dean when he was in the kitchen, because he knew it was a space for Dean. And if either of them wanted each other’s company or any extra help, they knew that all they had to do was just say the words.

But every now and then, when Dean didn’t have any pending tasks, he liked to sit by the porch and watch how Cas worked. On days when he knew Cas was going to take quite a long time but required no help, Dean grabbed a book and let himself sink into the story while he heard the soothing and constant noises that Cas made as he worked on the garden. And every time he was done with a chapter, he lifted his eyes to look at Cas, who noticed Dean’s stare and grinned at him. Naturally, Dean always grinned back.

Today instead, Dean was leaning against the railing, watching Cas with a smile on his face, knowing that his husband would soon be finishing. He was carefully tying the last of the rose stems around the poles, assuring that the shrub roses would have the support they needed once they grew bigger. He had a concentrated face as he did that, but Dean could spot a happy smile drawn on his chapped lips.

Beers in hand, Dean decided to approach Cas. It was a hot day, and he was sure Cas would appreciate something cold. But before he could reach him, Cas finished tying the las stem and he turned around to greet Dean, a bright smile quickly appearing on his lips as their eyes met.

Dean stopped his feet as he looked at Cas, taken aback by the way the sunlight casted a nimbus of bright light, making it seem like he had a visible halo, warming up his features, making Cas look even more beautiful than he already was.

He looked more angelic than he had ever been in spite of being human now.

“Do I have dirt on my face?” Cas asked, squinting his eyes and tilting his head to his side.

As his head moved, the effect of the sunlight halo quickly faded away, but Cas still looked beautiful, even with the smudge of dirt on his cheek.

“Yeah, you do,” Dean said as he chuckled. He removed the small distance in between them and then lifted his free hand to cup Cas’ jaw so his thumb could wipe the smudge. “There you go, you beautiful mess.”

Cas rolled his eyes but he snorted before Dean leaned in to kiss him. Dean couldn’t see it, but the sun was once again making it look as if Cas had a halo, only this time, the glowing light spread to Dean too.

[lil-elle]

Hi please i am begging for a funny duo imagine with seeun PLEASE POOKIE PLEASE

HEHEHEH OF COURSE

Height Difference

group: xikers

pair: seeun x gn!reader

genre: fluff, crack

word count: 705

content: (short reader btw), frenemies with way too obvious crushes on each other

a/n: I'm short guys so this makes me giggle and kick my feet like crazy you have no idea

You stared up at Seeun with a glare on your face, his long arm outstretched above him, and what exactly was in his unreachable hand? Your phone.

“What's wrong, shorty? Just grab it.” He smirked down at you, clearly amused. This wasn't uncommon for him, in fact you'd be surprised if you could go a whole day without him using his height advantage against you in some way. Today it was to tease you.

“I swear to God Park Seeun, I'm about to climb you like a jungle gym.” His smirk grew wider, revealing his gums in a way you hated that you found charming.

“Waahh, who taught you to speak like that?” He squinted, leaning down slightly to speak closer to your face. 

What you didn't notice at the time was his ears, slightly red at the tips, heat slowly spreading down to the back of his neck. The last thing he'd do, however, is allow you to notice that.

“It's too early for this, you glorified telephone pole.”

He'd allowed his arm to slack slightly, unable to hide that it was getting tired. You saw an opening and jumped, grasping blindly for his hand, to which he quickly stretched his arm out straight again, making it unreachable once again. You sighed dramatically.

“Wow, if looks could kill~” He teased, switching the phone from his right hand to his left, as if he'd caught on to your plan.

You scrunched your face up, racking your brain for a new strategy.

His smirk dropped a little as you took a step back and you could practically see his mind working to figure out what you'd do next. You spun around on your heel, walking away from him and you could hear an amused chuckle come from behind you.

“Given up?” he questioned, slight confusion in his voice that he was attempting to mask with a teasing tone.

Once you'd gotten a good amount away from him, you suddenly turned again before sprinting directly at him. You watched as his face went from confusion to shock, eyes wide and eyebrows high on his forehead. He stepped back a little, but it was too late.

“OH SH-”

You barrelled into him like a steam roller, taking him down like a lumberjack to a tree and landing straddled over him. You plucked your phone from his grasp, looking down at his bewildered face and feeling completely victorious.

“I'll take that, thank you!” You giggled, relishing in your victory. It was only when you opened your eyes and looked back down at him that you noticed the position you were in.

Your thighs were placed on either side of his waist, putting all of your body weight on him. His thick black hair, usually neatly tamed, was dishevelled. Most embarrassing of all, was that you finally noticed the pink tint spreading from his ears to his cheeks as he lay frozen under you. You couldn't help but stutter as you tried to play off the rapid beat of your heart from the lack of proximity between the two of you.

“B-bet you feel…pretty s-silly now, huh?” You chuckled awkwardly as he finally managed to clamp his open mouth shut, his adams apple bobbing nervously. 

You heard footsteps approach, your head snapping to the sound instantly to see Junmin and Yujun approaching, Junmin with an exasperated expression and Yujun with a wide and yet somehow mischievous expression.

“THEY'RE GONNA KI-” Junmin quickly clamped his hands over Yujun's mouth, the smile he had still reaching his eyes.

Seeun's face became impossibly more red and you hurriedly stood and put a dramatic amount of distance between you and him. You watched awkwardly as Seeun sat up, his face, neck, and ears still redder than the setting sun, his expression dazed.

Junmin finally removed his hands from Yujun's mouth, rolling his eyes.

“Let's go love birds, we have a photoshoot to get to Seeun, get out of your pyjamas.”

“U-uh yeah…” He stood up, dusting himself off mindlessly and walking around the corner into his room.

You could've sworn you heard muffled screaming come from behind his door, but your mind was much too muddled by the stark memories of what just happened.

-

♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡

@hyunromi @chocoeon @hyunukitty @minjaezed @ihyeokzu @cake1box

[ofduskanddreams]

The Embers of Us — Snippet

requested by @thelovelymadone

CW: REFERENCES TO DOMESTIC VIOLENCE & CHILD ABUSE (below the cut)

✦ ✦ ✦

Eris’s breaths cloud with every exhale before dissolving into the early April air. The rising sun will peek above the feathered crowns of the fir trees lining the far side of the river any minute.

He’s twenty-nine today. A year from now he’ll be thirty.

If his twenty-year-old self could see him right now—still in Wyoming, still single, running Autumn Crest Ranch of all things—he’d think it was a nightmare come true. But Eris has learned to love this place.

It turns out that it wasn’t the ranch he hated; it wasn’t the small town that made him feel like the walls were closing in even under endlessly blue skies, it was his father. Beron Vanserra was the rot in the roots; a poison, slow and insidious in its creeping.

Eris ran off to Seattle for university when the chance presented itself. It had been a selfish choice, a desperate one if he’s being honest, but a choice that he loves and loathes with equal measure.

Those had been four years when he’d left his mother and brothers here under his father’s fist and unprotected. Those four years had also been the first time he’d felt truly alive—truly himself—for longer than a few stolen hours at a time.

Beron died when the ranch was about to go under three years prior. Eris thinks that if he didn’t have those precious few years to learn and live the way he wanted to, he would have failed his family when he inherited the ranch. Instead, he turned things around.

It is still a “working” ranch by all technical definitions but their cattle herd is mainly for show. After all, tourists come to Starlight Creek from all corners of the world to get an “authentic” experience at Autumn Crest Ranch.

Does it make him a sellout? Potentially. But Eris would rather take the judgemental looks from the other ranchers in the area than be unable to provide a comfortable life for his mother and brothers.

And there’s the added bonus of this: of the sun climbing and setting fire to the treetops, of Cinder and Vulcan chasing after a rabbit, of Candy’s warmth seeping through his jeans into his calves as they walked parallel to the gravelly river bank.

It’s these moments that fill him with an inundating sense of peace, of home, and Eris marvels that this is the same land he grew up on. In the absence of Beron’s shadow it’s a different world: one where his mother is often smiling and never concealing bruises, one where Lucien does his homework at the kitchen table and Maddox can read a novel in the living room instead of hiding away so as not to be noticed.

In this world, Eris flies a Pride flag right below Old Glory and flips the ground the finger whenever he leaves the house and sees it on the pole. He hopes his father is rolling over in his grave at the fact that his ranch is more successful in the hands of his bisexual son than it ever was when he was alive and throwing slurs at the TV whenever a man appeared on-screen that didn’t match his definition of the word.

In this world, Eris’s home and family are flourishing and he wakes up looking forward to the day ahead. When this is already so much more than he’d ever imagined for himself, what more could he want?

[polutrope]

For the holiday prompts, @i-did-not-mean-to requested "Pets and decorations for the best boy in the whole story HUAN (Celegorm can come if he behaves)."

Here you are friend! Everyone came. ~1.2k words of Finvesen family holiday fun with Huan. One F-bomb, rated G. Posting these to AO3, here. Prompt list. Beleria Cast of Characters.

“Wow,” Celegorm muttered to himself as he stepped into his parents’ foyer.

Nerdanel had outdone herself this year. The Yule tree — a ten foot tall structure only vaguely reminiscent of a conifer — glittered silver and gold under the skylight. In place of branches it was girded in spear-like protrusions, spiralling up the bare wooden pillar at its centre and gradually decreasing in length until they reached a conical crown of clear glass. At the end of each javelin hung an ornament. One would have expected glass, or metal, the sort of costly thing typical of Fëanor and Nerdanel — but this Yule tree, in stark contrast to its structure, was adorned with balls of what appeared to be scrap textile.

It was hideous.

Celegorm shucked off his coat and tossed it on the shoe rack. There was no need to announce his arrival: Huan had bounded ahead the moment they came through the door.

Sure enough, the voice of Fëanor grew louder as he rounded the corner.

“Turko! Your damn dog is getting his hair all over the couch. It was just cleaned!”

“Hi, Dad,” Celegorm greeted him. “Nice tree.”

“Oh, you like it?” Fëanor asked, forgetting Huan’s trespass for the moment. “It’s quite unique, isn’t it? Your mother’s idea to use the old telephone pole and textiles. She’s become quite the proponent of upcycling.” Fëanor bracketed this last in scare quotes.

He looked skeptically at the tree then back to Celegorm. “It’s grown on me,” he mused. “But!” he suddenly pivoted to set his hands on Celegorm’s shoulders, “It’s good to see you, son!”

As they belatedly embraced, Huan came padding back into the room and yapped, leaping up on his hind legs in an attempt to join them.

“Down, boy,” Celegorm laughed. “Remember this is grandma and grandpa’s house, you’ve gotta be a good boy.”

Huan cocked his head.

“Aw, you’re always a good boy, I know.” Celegorm ruffled a hand between his ears. “Come on, let’s go to the basement, Dad won’t be upset if you roll around down there.”

Celegorm winked at Fëanor, who huffed and shook his head.

His father rattled off the usual stream of thoughts as he followed after Celegorm. “I thought you were arriving with Curvo — he is bringing Tyelpë I hope. How are they getting here? Is Cáno giving them a ride then? Have you spent much time with his boyfriend? Daeron. Of course I want my sons to be with whomever they like, but it really is uncanny with him and Nelyo and you finding partners who just so happen to be the children of — oh never mind, none of my business, is it? Can you believe, six months and he still won’t bring him over for dinner! Your mother is picking up the twins. They wanted to take the bus, if you can believe that. Nelyafinwë is picking up a couple pies. He insisted. Have you heard from Moryo, by the way? Your mother texted him but he hasn’t replied.”

Celegorm plopped himself down in a plush arm chair. “I don’t know.”

“Hello! We’re here!” Nerdanel’s voice called from upstairs. Huan bounded back up to greet her.

Fëanor frowned. “That dog is going to have to stay down here. He gets far too excited when everyone is together like this. Did you have to bring him?”

“Huan goes where I go, Dad.”

“Well we’re not spending the whole evening down here so I hope not!”

“Then you’re going to have to let my dog upstairs.”

Fëanor grunted and turned, taking the stairs two at a time to greet his wife and youngest sons. Celegorm took advantage of what might be his last moment of solitude before the storm hit in earnest.

A moment later, Amrod trundled down the stairs. “Hey!” he said.

Celegorm leapt up to take his lanky little brother into a bear hug. “Hey, it’s Red One!”

Amrod kneed him in the thigh. “I have a name.”

“You do?” Celegorm said, and released him with an affectionate smack on the shoulder.

“So, uh,” Amrod said, “what the fuck is with that tree?”

*

And so it went with each new arrival, exchanging knowing looks and murmurs and trying not to snicker at the texts Amrod and Amras kept sending the sibling group chat. Curufin was the only one of them who dared state his disapproval of the tree openly, scowling as he said, “It’s not to my taste.” Maedhros went the opposite direction, concealing his obvious (to his brothers) revulsion with effusive praise and a litany of questions about the tree's craftsmanship and inspiration and symbolism.

After a round of drinks, they all retreated to the kitchen to serve themselves from the spread of food. It was a Finvesen family tradition to get together for a casual meal when the Yule tree was erected. It used to be a decorating party, with a live tree and ornaments strewn over the ground, a memory attached to each one recalled with laughter — but with the move to Beleria, the last of the children finally moved out, Fëanor’s wealth, and Nerdanel’s increasing creative eccentricity, traditions had changed. Celegorm could not say it was for the better. He’d much preferred the joyful chaos back in Valin.

“Hey, guys,” Amrod said as he re-entered the living room ahead of the others. “Where’s Huan?”

Celegorm strolled up behind him to see his dog, indeed, gone. “Huan boy!” he called.

There was a playful yelp from the foyer, and Huan came barrelling in shaking one of the cloth ornaments in his jaw. He tossed it on the ground and disembowelled it of its stuffing. Then he ran back, and there was a crashing and yelping, and another ball rolled into the living room.

It seems Huan agreed with the general opinion on the tree. Celegorm laughed hysterically until Amrod clapped a hand over his mouth.

“What’s going on?” Curufin asked as he walked up beside them with his plate.

“Shh, shh,” Celegorm hushed him. “Pretend you don’t notice.”

"Oh. I see," Curufin said.

So they retook their seats, keeping up the mundane chatter, each brother shushing the others as they entered. Huan gleefully made a heap of his carnage in the archway between foyer and living room.

Returning second-to-last, Fëanor immediately caught sight of the mountain of destroyed ornaments. There was a tense moment of silence; then he turned to Celegorm, grinning, and winked as he took his seat.

“You’re all being very quiet,” Nerdanel said, plopping herself down last. “Is something going on?” She scanned the room. “Oh my god! What happened to my—!” She set her plate down and burst into the foyer. “Huan! Huan, bad! Stop pissing on my tree!”

Following Fëanor’s cue, the others all broke into laughter.

“You’re all terrible,” Nerdanel said, standing in the door frame with her hands on her hips.

Then she too chuckled, then laughed, then howled. “No. No, you’re all perfectly right.” She wiped the tears from her eyes. “It’s hideous, isn’t it? I don’t know what I was thinking. What do you say we go pick up a proper tree after we’re eaten?”

“Yes, please!” everyone shouted in unison.

[writingwenches]

Freeform From — Beginning

notes: am I writing an original story that just shoves Targaryen royalty into it so I can have a fun audience while I write? Well, anyways, there's the last 500 words I wrote this weekend

I tried my hand at re-starting the story, tried to lead with "in the action" and explain a bit about the characters' friendships while keeping it interesting and engaging meh meh meh The map above is where the story takes place, in the cold swampy neck area, on the shores of The Bite, the bay that holds the The Sisters islands.

🤷🏻 here we go lets begin 🤷🏻

There was a boat that she carved by hand, from a sleeping cypress tree they felled together, a harvest moon past. Lyn had worked many nights and her arms showed her exertion. She no longer needed aid to carry stones and bushels of hay. 

Root said she looked a huntress, the fierce womanly warriors from her home tribe. In the orphanage, where they all rest their heads, Root was called Piety, a more proper name for a young lady, the Septas said. Root was the name of a wild thing that lives amongst the creatures and mud. Young ladies were allowed to sleep in beds, shielded from the cold night winds with warm blankets of fleece and wool. 

Root stood at the helm of their punt of a boat, a lantern held true to see their way down the spider filled hallow. Lyn was at the rear, her guiding pole pushing them along the swampy canal bed. The flickering candle of the lantern shone against the water’s surface, countless lights reflected back mirroring the creatures’ eyes. White eyes mean food, the frogs perched on the muddy bank. Red eyes mean danger, and teeth, and horror, pulling into the water and under, never to return again. 

“We should turn back,” Hanna worried, her eyes never leaving the darkness that moved behind. 

“We’re basically half way there,” Root promised.

“You said that hours ago!” Hanna yelled in a hushed tone, only to be shushed by the party. 

Hanna and Lyn had been wards of the orphanage since before they could remember, they had grown up together, much like sisters, but very much not. Hanna was a stickly girl with bones so tiny, Lyn was surprised when stormy winds didn’t sweep her away. Hanna was skilled in precise things, like brewing ale and sewing buttons back onto shirts, she could even embroider just as fine as some noble ladies. 

Lyn was her opposite, sunrise to Hanna’s sunset. Lyn’s cheeks were full when Hanna’s were hallow, they ate the same food but Lyn grew bigger every passing moon and Hanna seemed to fade into the slim figure others complimented. Hanna’s hair was yellow and as fine as the finest silk threads. Lyn had hair that coiled in and around itself, a crown of dark hair with the underglow of gold, to Hanna’s veil of soft blonde whispers of grain that blew in the sun. 

Lyn’s back was strong and able to carve a boat from a log with the sweat of her hands. Hanna could understand maths and write her name. 

They were two halves of one whole, Root would joke. Together they could form one grown woman, and apart they are simply each little girls. 

“Did you hear that?” Root asked, lowering the light.

“It’s a Karien-Bird, obviously,” Hanna answered, she had not yet offered aid the entire journey.

“Not that, dummy,” Root kicked her resting form. “That.”

They all listened.

The three were nearly woman grown, another year or two and the Septas would have no choice but to force them out of the orphanage. Root begged for that day, though Lyn was sure the Septas could find a reason to keep her around. The Septas did not like young ladies who misbehaved, and Root was everything and that. 

Root had been found, washed up after a hurricane, many years ago. The Septas took her in, whether she wanted their aid or no. Root hailed from a tribe of Crannogmen that made the swampy shores of The Bite their home. The rods and reeves that held their floating islands together broke apart and Root was separated from her tribe by miles. She has been trying to escape back to them ever since.

Lyn and Hanna had agreed to help her. Lyn had always wanted to go on a proper adventure, and Hanna had stolen Septa Glaedis’s carrot tart a few moons past and Lyn was going to hold that blackmailed knowledge over her for the rest of her days. Hanna had assured Lyn it had been worth it.

notes: WELP that's all I wrote in the first bit so hopefully I can have muse to write again tonight! If the muse so takes you, ask whatever questions you can think of! Or come chat about your stories and characters, get the muse flowing together LOL

[rotm-channel]

RotG Wild West Au

Cool Handed Jack

It was another typical day at the North Pole ....if you can call an argument Between Santa Claus,The Easter Bunny and the Tooth Fairy about the Northern lights typical…

“How many times I got to tell you it's not problem that we can deal with just like that!”North argued

“I didn't ask you for your opinion!”Bunnymund Retorted back

“I didn't get sleep last night because I had to fix Guardian Lights.”North counterted his remark,he and all the team were worried sick about it because without the lights working there was no quick way of calling them to the North Pole,something terrible could happen and they would be too late,this fear of helplessness made them worry.

“We've been talking about this for 3 hours and we still don't know where to start!”Toothiana said, trying to calm the two guardians down.

“Look Tooth you flying here does not fix problem.”North said in return

But I just think tha

“I know urgency it's probably more important to me than it to you!And I invented it!So just stop pushing me.”

“Stop Pushing?!”Bunnymund said

“We've had this broken down for a week now!What if an emergency happened most of us could do nothing about it”He added in

“Okay so we're all tired and we all want to get it done as soon as possible so why don't we just try a different approach.”

Meanwhile Jack was watching some westerns on an portable TV he found them so fun even though they took place in the Dry and Hot Desert most of the time.He had always had a bit of fondness for them after all he grew up as a cattle boy and with his memories back these films had a feeling of familiarity to him now more than ever.

And the toys of the workshop helped them feel what with the cowboy action figures,horses,stage coaches and toy town and model train set running around it just worked out!Several elves joined in on the fun too and put on cowboy outfits and tied up Dingle dressed as a Bandit to a small christmas tree.

He didn't want to be bothered with the problem but he couldn't help but sad to see his friends arguing,and he wanted to help so he came up with an idea…

He walked up to the globe room passing several Yetis rushed about with tools trying to help fix the broken mechanism.

“Hi Phil!”He said as he saw him pass by,Phil however was in a hurry and had no time to respond.

“Hey?Uh North?”He began

Look Jack I already told you keep out of this”North said in reply

“Well , I just thought…”

Well just don't there's nothing you can do to help,It's enough dealing the breakdown here without you make it more difficult with mischievous plans.North said

“Yeah go back and leave us alone!”Bunymund thought he had enough problems without dealing with Jack

“That right and we make decisions!”North said

“Jack?Tooth asked

“Yes?”He replied

“Could you please turn that Television down?”She asked him and with a sigh he complied

“Well…all I wanted to do was just give a suggestion”,Jack silently muttered to himself as he went back.

Meanwhile the argument got even more heated

“WELL THERE ARE SOMETHINGS we can live without and this is not one of them”Bunnymund said

”Oh,and what did do before we have Northern Lights?”North argued back

“Holy Mackerel…just listen to this guy!”Bunnymund said back

“Look,guys you should stop arguing amongst yourselves so we can finally get somewhere?”Toothiana asked she didn't like the way their chat was going

”But…”

”But nothing just leave me alone so I get back to work.”North said to bunnymund

”Look North we don't want to tell you what to do it's just that this is very important to all of us to have the lights functional.”Tooth said in a gentle tone

Jack went back he felt as if he was invisible and unwanted yet again, the words of the others were still lingering in Jacks mind as he was getting tired and started to drop off to sleep Sandy who was awoken by the argument noticed as his eyes closed and so he gave him some Dreamsand.As Jack was falling asleep the words of the fellow Guardians ”Keep out of this Jack!” and the TVs gunfire echoed through his mind

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

Gunfire was heard in J.Shorters Bank in Sandy Springs,the Bankteller was held at gunpoint by one of the bandits.

“Oh my,Oh my,you can't do that!Mr.Shorty will be very mad”:He said in disarray as the bandits handed each other the bags of gold one by one.

While at Gunpoint the teller remembered a small alarm by the counter of the desk…slowly he inched his way towards it,unbeknownst to the thieves.

“Cmon,Cmon thats it”One of them said as he took the bags of riches one by one

“Just one more..”The other one said

“Yeah Just one more” the another one replied

“Trouble with you two is that you just plain greedy”Said the lead bandit to the other two.

“Hurry it up,Hurry it up!”Another one said

Suddenly a shot rang out and ink flew across the teller

“I wouldn't do that if I were you ... .next time I'm aiming for you”Said one of the bandits sending shivers down the spine of the teller

“Okay you,time to go!”Said the lead bandit and the other two walked out the door

He then turned back to the teller:”I hope you have nice warm fireplace.”

After which he shot down a lamp and set it ablaze

Before Leaving he stopped to say:”We the Guardian gang,so see you round partner.”

The Bankteller rushed to the phone.

“Operator!Operator!Fire!Help!Robbery!Oh my!”He said overwhelmed with worry

Outside the gang in their six horse oven stagecoach were riding high.

“YIPPEE YI YAY!YAHOO!YAHHA!WOOHOO!YAHEY!”

They cried as they drove over a garden with the owner shaking his fist at the bandits who knocked down his fence.

“How we doing?”Maverick Nick the bandleader asked his team

“If you try to ride this this coach and not fly it we'll do a whole lot better”Deadshot Aster replied

“Yeah try not to make us lose any teeth before we spend the money”Dragontooth said in agreement

“What the matter Aster?I thought you like little bit of dangerous riding!”Nick said to his fellow bandit

,he didn't just like it….he loved it

“Yeah I know but I'd like to stay in one piece too!What's next chief?”Aster said not sharing Nicks sentiment

“Little Gold consignment in Kansas City and the nearest town from here to there is..Jackville”Maverick Nick said

“Seem it time to visit”Nick continued

“Wait!Did you just say….Jacksville?”Aster asked in astonishment at Nick's statement

“Yes so what?”He said

Well the Sheriff there has a reputation for Law and Fun!And I had a brush with him several times,none good.”Aster said reflecting upon his long-time rivalry with the wild lawmaker

“And they say he's the coolest draw in the west.”Dragontooth added in ,also vary of his skill.

”Don't tell that you scared!I say next stop Jackville”Nick said brushing off the worries of his team as the stagecoach rushed over the lone prairie.

Jackville Law Abiding folks welcome:The sign by the entrance of the town read.

Sheriff Jack was resting in his office he felt a cool breeze as he reflected back,just yesterday he shot off an apple of the Bartender's head while saying that he would do it"without knocking down a single hair".Then again the Bartender was bald.But what was just law and order without some fun and excitement, this town needed enough of both.

When suddenly a small man broke in and started gesturing in sign language.

“The Guardian Gang is in town?Ok let's play it cool then….”He said as he headed along with this small deputy to the Saloon

At the Saloon the atmosphere was most dissatisfactory with the three new guests.

”Another drink and be quick about it mate!”Aster said

“Yeah I could do with another strong drink.”Nick added in

“I hope you aren't planning no trouble after all this is a Law abiding town and this is a respectable Bar!”Katherine the bar owner said

“Why don't you get lost sweetheart?”Aster replied

“What's hurry I hope you not trying to pull out just when lifes getting sweet?”Nick said

“Err..Well no chief but..”Aster began

“Good.”North replied cutting him off

“Nick?Could we discuss the plan now?”Dragontooth said,she was interested in the loot.

“Sure at Six today the express mail train will pick up largest load of Gold and Diamond ever shipped in the west and right now it safe and sound but 5 minutes before the train leave station that gold will be wheeled out on platform and that's when our dream will come true!”He said as the team listened intently,each member pictured the prized valuables which would soon rest in the palm of their hands.

Just then Sheriff Jack entered the Bar and shot a cold gaze at all present

Silence fell

He slowly walked up to the ringer as everyone attention was redirected to him

“What'll it be, sheriff?”Said the Bartender

“Want to try some of mine,Sheriff?”Nick offered

”No,just milk.”Jack said calmly

Silence fell again and all eyes were on him.

The Gang all looked at him intently

All was silent

Jack slowly reached for his milk.

His hand slowly made his way to it and……

BANG!A shot rang out!And hit the drink

And then another and another!

Everyone ducked to the side

Deadshot Aster missed and Jack shot his gun out of his hand.

“Alright don't move,hold it right there!”He said once again defeating his long time opponent

Dragontooth was about to get him when Deputy “Sandy” hit her with a chair, knocking her out and sending her to dreamland.

Nick was about to get Jack but as he aimed Katherine hit him with a pie she had on the coaster

“Let that be a lesson to you, never be rude to a lady.”She said

“Great job gang!”Jack said congratulating the loyal friend.After which he looked at the gang

“Alright all of you put your hands up!”Jack said smiling smugly at his opponents

“Stravinsky.”Nick muttered as he and his team was taken away

“Well get even with you Sheriff…..”Dragontooth said

Jack ignored it

“Okay Sandy put them in”He said pointing to the cell

“You can just cool off in there, okay?He said with a mischievous grin,it's the cooler after all.”He said,this was gonna be fun.

Not long later however the phone ranged

“Yes?”Jack said taking it up to his ear

“Trouble down at the Eastwood rodeo Sheriff!Could you come down?”:said the voice from the phone.

“Sure Jamie!”He said in reply

The small mute deputy gestured.

“Yes I'm leaving to help Jamie,you stay here Sandy and guard them till I return.”He said

“And remember to keep an eye on them.”He added before he shut the door and left.

One Hour later the deputy was growing sleepy and subsequently fell asleep whilst he lay there the gang plotted…

They had connected a hook to a piece of wire and were trying to get the keys which lay on the desk.Whispering amongst each other.

“Just a little more”Dragontooth said

“Easy”Aster said nervously

“Tchaikovsky!”Nick said as he once again missed

“Try again.”Dragontooth said hopefully

“Thats it,Thats it,Thats it”Aster added in as the hook neared the desk

Lady Luck must have smiled on them for they got the keys hooked up and slowly dragged them across the floor to the cell.

Sandy would move every now and again,stirring as if his dream was turning into a nightmare.However the gang got out quietly without waking the sleeping little deputy.

“Tooth you take care of him i'll get the weapons.”Nick said

Sandy awoke by the noise the gang was making and found himself bound and not gagged.He was tied to his seat and could only helplessly look on as the gang made their getaway.

Nick came from the door and said:

“I hope you have nice warm fireplace.”

And promptly shot the oil lamp down from the ceiling and set it ablaze with the second shot

The fire spread rapidly,whilst the gang went to their stagecoach and fled.

Sandy was struggling and trying to unbound himself while the fire came closer and closer.

He knew he wouldn't make it out through the exit as he was bound and would never make it so he knocked over the phone.

While he couldn't talk he still could alert Jack.

He did his form of emergency communication one tap yes two taps no.

“Who is this?”Tap Tap Tap Tap! “Sandy is that you?” “Tap” “Is there some sort of trouble?”

“Tap.”

“Don't worry, I'm on my way!”Jack said as he rushed off

The Stagecoach was going wildly through the lone prairie at dangerous speeds.

Suddenly it stopped at the crossroad which read:Santa Fe and Border.

Aster was surprised”Why have we stopped mate?”

”Look, we make plan and we do it!”Nick replied

“I don't know the mountain road is hard and this large stagecoach won't make it!”Aster said,he was not usually worried about such things but Nicks wild driving was a bit too much for him

“And I'm not risking my neck in Kansas after “The Fall of 78”.And that gold shipment will surely have guards.”He continued

“Look I glad we out of Jail but we still have hope to ride off into sunset as richest and most famous bandits ever.”He was so close for his dreams to come true and didn't want to give up

“I say we go to the border where we'll be safe.”Dragontooth said in worry of being caught,yet her heart yearned for the beutiful gems which were so close to being hers.

“We can make for Santa Fe you don't know this Stagecoach as much as I , why I….”Nick began

“Built it?”Aster asked

“Of Course not!I stole it!”Nick replied laughing heartily

“We should just scram. I don't want to be on this crazy thing one minute longer than I need to!And I'm feeling sick.”Aster continued

“Listen you two !We can still make it!And have all the gold and gems we want!”Dragontooth said her desire for gemstones won over her fear.

“I'm not risking my neck just to satisfy your greed!We've got plenty from the other places we hit and when we double-crossed the Midget Terrors of Tiny Town.”Aster

“But this will make us legends”Nick said

“Can you two just make up your minds?”Dragontooth retorted

In the meantime the fire rained hot in the Sheriff's office…Jack saw his past melt before his eyes his valued memories gone in the light of the blaze the Guardians made.Fortunately He made it in time to save Sandy and carried him over the flames.While Sandy was not a good talker he was a great listener and knew exactly what the bandits planned to do!

He wrote down the Border and Santa Fe and information he heard.

“Hmm the border but their heart was on the gold and gems too ...and they'll make it there before the express and then they would get the gold and make a clean getaway…unless they're desperate people and determined…I'm going to put my career on them going for the gold and and i'll stop them even or bust!”

The round little Deputy wrote:You'd better be careful there, they're dangerous and tough. With the Price of 200,000 thousand dollars on their head and their legendary feats they are not to be taken lightly”

Jack nodded as he climbed on his horse and rode to the station

Meanwhile the gang finally made up their minds

“Ok Im going…but if this thing breaks to splinters it was your choice!”Aster said reluctantly agreeing with Nick

“So as I say, let's go!”He said as he pulled the reins causing the coach to accelerate rapidly,much to Aster's discomfort.

Jack got aboard the locomotive. It was beautifully decorated and modern. She was the Engineer's love.With diamond leaf lettering proudly presenting her name”Iron Belle“... .the chase of the horse and the iron horse was on!

Jack:”Well,well have to race with the wind to get their”The white haired sheriff said

”Don't worry I think we can!C'mon you can do it,show them what you're made of!”Casey the engineer said as he looked at his locomotive

The Guardian Gang had quite a lead by intercepting the train in the mountains but the horses struggled up the steep grades and Nick's urging didn't help much.

"What's wrong with them?Are you sure you don't have any brakes?Because they seem to be on."Aster sarcastically remarked.

The Iron Belle was gaining but the road went downhill so the gang was speeding up. It was a rough,wild and hazardous ride as they passed through a Railroad Crossing barely outpassing the locomotive

“Hot Diggity,that's it, looks like they're licked.Were gaining quick.”Casey said in joy

They started closing in…

The Iron Horse sped through the tunnel with its whistles wailing in a cry of victory!It surpassed the stagecoach as it came to a stop to avoid a collision and then Dragontooth keen eyes noticed something.

“The Sheriffs aboard!”Dragontooth sayed in surprise

”Are you sure?”Aster asked in worry that his old nemesis was back.

”Absolutely” She replied “I could tell by how the sun glinted off his sparkling white teeth.”

The horses got a second wind after the brief break and started to catch up.

Soon the train and the coach were nearly side by side!

”Keep 'em going neck and neck!”Aster said as he took aim

The race was on!

”Onward Jailbird, Laws nightmare and Spirit.”Nick said to his loyal steeds

“Woah!Careful mate!We want this sled to last”Aster said as the coach maneuvered haphazardly on the yellow mountain road and despite it all managed to dodge all the obstacles in its path.

“This is gonna be fun”:said The sheriff as he readied his gun

”He's got gun!”Nick said in surprise

“Whaddya expect mate?A shovel?”Aster retorted

Deadshot climbed aside and took aim and started shooting at the cab and Jack fired back they were practically next to each other.Jack hit the railing on which Aster was holding which disbalanced him and knocked him over while falling off he clumsily got his foot stuck in the ropes so he was dragged on.

“Direct hit”He said

“Don't stop, we can do it!”Dragontooth said as they kept up with the locomotive

Maverick Nick successfully navigated it through shortcuts through the mountain road so they could make up for the Trains' faster speeds.

As they rounded the next crossing they just barely passed the Trains; it wasn't over yet.

Meanwhile Aster was still dragging along through the dust and sand.

“Now that's what I call a Dust Bunny” Jack thought to himself grinning at the bandits mishap.

The Express kept on going full speed but soon enough they were yet again neck and neck with Jack firing back at Dragontooth.

The Steam pressure was building and Belle was straining under the speed it was going at!

“C'mon you can do it!”Kasey said as the train started straining

But she was losing steam rapidly,the bullet holes from Dragontooth and Aster on the boiler did their work and it was starting to look like the chase was over!

Aster was right!The Coach was put under too much pressure and lost a wheel just as it was going over a railroad crossing and got stuck.

“Raskolnikov!”Nick Called out as he saw the train approach

“Oh No!”The Brave Engineer cried out and put on the brakes

Sparks went flying as the wheels scraped the tracks.

But the train was still going too fast and collided with the coach as the horses ran loose as the reins broke and the coach got caught on the cowcatcher…

The gang was hanging on for dear life when suddenly..

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

"Jack?Jack?"Jack heard a familiar voice call out

"We must stop the Guardians gang"He mumbled

Jack woke up to see North and the guardians around him

”Jack?You been dreaming,are you right?”North said looking concerned

”Yeah…”Jack muttered as he came to realize it all was just a dream

”Sorry we were a bit tough on you,but we were all nervous about the breakdown.”Bunnymund said in an apologetic tones

”But we found solution!And to celebrate we have visit to Oklahoma as you wanted!North said triumphantly

”And well Jack,I just want to remind you that it won't be exactly like in all those westerns,so I hope you won't mind if there won't be any gunfights and robberies.”Tooth reminded Jack,she knew how much he loved the wild exploits in all the films,there we just so fun.

“You know,I guess I won't” he said reflecting on his dream

”What were you dreaming about?”North asked curiously

Jack thought about his dream and started“Well…”

“I was the Sheriff of Jacksville,and you were part of the guardian gang.”

The Guardians listened with interest,except Sandy who couldn't help but smile….

This happens circa a few months after the events of the movie,by this point in time Jack has gotten used to his life as a Guardian and coming often to North's Workshop to as he put it:Chill out.

Also I tried to make this all work to be canon so it had to be a dream that Sandy made for Jack.(Also the Terrors of Tiny town is an actual movie name for a western in this there somewhat like (all midget western)elfs with which the gang worked together for 3 years straight.......dont ask about the fourth year......it isn't pretty....

Please like,review and comment .It makes my day!And helps me.

Names

of RotG Wild West Au

Sheriff:"Cool-Handed "Jack-Our hero

Deadshot Aster-As dry and hostile as the outback

Maverick Nikolai “Nick”-Legendary bandit

Dragon Tooth-As beautyfull as she is dangerous

Deputy Sandy-Jacks loyal companion

FEEL FREE TO USE THEM!Only credit me please!And I hope you liked it!

[macaroni-and-pebbles]

I wrote a thing i guess

@polteergeistt told me to so blame this on him

anyways putting it under the cut bc it turned out longer than i thought

also theres technically more to it but i dont feel like doing more writing rn :/

so yeah enjoy i guess. or dont. who cares really

why did this come out so negative damn :,)

Vessel was dreaming again. He had been transported to Sleep’s realm, he was sure of it. With the way he could feel Sleep’s ever-looming presence in the back of his mind, permeating every surface. Unlike his usual visits to the realm however, he was somewhere new. Somewhere in this expansive realm he had not visited yet.

It was a floating island in the middle of some sort of void, the entirety of the space surrounding the small island a sort of dark cream. The place, despite being entirely new, felt almost homey to Vessel; like he was meant to be here in this moment of time.

Upon looking around, Vessel spotted a small pier hanging off the side of the island, its supports going farther down into the foggy void than he could see. There was someone else sitting on the edge of the pier, a fishing pole in their hands. Their line was cast down into the void, disappearing just like the pier’s supports into the distant fog. And again, despite this being a complete stranger to Vessel, they felt familiar. Like an old friend.

Vessel approached the stranger calmly—he had nothing to fear in this realm he knew—and sat down next to them, peering down into the void briefly to look at where the stranger’s line disappeared. “Catch anything good?” He asked softly, feeling slightly as though he shouldn’t be interrupting this stranger’s peace with his presence, but he carried on regardless.

But the stranger didn’t respond, seeming entirely unaffected by Vessel’s presence. Sitting still and silent, their eyes gazing into the void as if watching something only they could see. The only sounds breaking the silence were the distant chirps of nonexistent birds and the leaves of the island’s few trees rustling with a wind that wasn’t there. It was the picture of peace, a safe space. Vessel’s feeling that he shouldn’t disturb the peace only grew.

Vessel’s brows furrowed, and he looked to the stranger again, frowning slightly. He could have sworn they heard him. He wasn’t a particularly loud person, but he wasn’t soft-spoken either, and the stranger’s disregard for his question made him feel as though he was intruding. He shifted uncomfortably on the wooden pier, his fingers drumming absently against his thighs.

He glanced over the side of the pier, taking in the sight of the void for a moment before turning back to the stranger. “Don’t ignore me.” He barked nervously, his tone a sudden departure from the calm one he’d used to ask his initial question.

He gazed at the stranger determinedly, his eyes dark and challenging; awaiting a response, or at least acknowledgment that he was here. That he existed.

“Why do you need so much to be seen?” The stranger asked calmly, their voice almost immediately soothing Vessel’s irritation for some odd reason—another effect of the realm, and perhaps the stranger themself, Vessel assumed. Their question was odd, yet it didn’t seem out of place, much like everything else here.

“It is not enough to simply exist, even if only for a few moments?” They added, their gaze staying on the void and they remained still as ever. Their line bobbed gently, although the stranger didn’t react to it. 

[atsadi-shenanigans]

Feeding Alligators 40 - Mirror, Mirror

Astarion goes fishing (and not for fish).

On AO3.

Y’all coulda made it back by nightfall, now that y’all know where you’re going. But both Wyll and Gale agree that arriving after a whole day of hiking is a bad strategy (to the disappointment of Karlach and the disgust of Lae’zel). So y’all stop about an hour away—close enough y’all can be rested when you get there, but not so close a patrol might trip over somebody’s tent.

Gale has a spare canvas, nobody has spare poles or stakes; Karlach solves that problem by sauntering to the edge of the trees and ripping three saplings out of the ground to whittle into poles with that bigass ax.

She drives them into the ground and does not use a hammer.

You ain’t the only one watching this with a little too much interest.

big lady your brain chants.

She carries a regular pack, from which she pulls out a blanket that smells vaguely like vasoline, and a raggedy teddy bear she introduces as Clive. The bear is singed around the edges, and seems nearly shellacked in the not-vasoline stuff on the blanket. Some kinda fire-resistant salve she says.

She’s careful not to touch nobody, or even get too close. You watch this, lips pressed tight, chest hurting for her.

Dinner is, once again, bread and cheese and wine. No fire so close to the tollhouse. Karlach strikes up a conversation with Lae’zel about the best way to twist somebody’s head off, while Shadowheart watches over the rim of her goblet.

Gale, without much to do in the way of a cook fire, plops down outside his tent with a book, several scrolls, and an ink pot to start scratching away. Meanwhile, Wyll volunteers to go on patrol—make sure y’all really are out of fake paladin range—and set up some snares. You can’t tell if he’s upset with y’all’s decision to let Karlach join, or if he don’t like her around, or if it’s some secret third thing that’s got him so tense. He’s seemed like a real good dude—though everybody has shit takes on something.

The sun sinks low and the light goes gray as evening deepens. Lae’zel actually takes a night off from breaking your ass (either distracted by Karlach, or deciding that leaving you like, rested, increases your chances of not fucking anything up tomorrow).

Which leaves you just…hanging out. For the first time, you have the mental and physical energy to stay awake, but you have no phone, no internet, no books or movies or anything to fiddle with. Maybe you could work on that strip of linen Astarion “gifted” you. But then he’d see you doing it and start shit and besides, you got no clue how to sew.

You’re so busy trying to think up a way to be busy, that you notice the man skulk out of his tent. He’s got something shiny in his hand. He’s positioned his tent slightly facing away from the fire, tonight, which leaves it facing your tent more than usual. He’s not, like, hiding, but he’s not out in the open as he holds up what you realize is a mirror.

Huh. Lots of different cultures have vampire lore; you wonder if the mirror thing is accurate. You got nothing better to do, so you find yourself trailing over, coming up behind him.

“Looking at something?” he says. It’s addressed to you, even though he hasn’t glanced over.

“Saw me coming?” you say.

He stares a moment longer, before turning. There’s no sparkle to his eyes, tonight. His lips are a straight line. “The only benefit to a mirror when you have my condition. It doesn’t make up for a lack of reflection, mind you.”

Ah. That part of the lore is true, then. Ouch.

“Sorry to hear that,” you say. “You must miss it.”

And then you want to kick yourself over how stupid that sounds.

“Preening into the looking glass? Petty vanity?” he says all flamboyant. Until he deflates. Until you see what might be a flash of sadness in him. “Of course I miss it. I’ve never even seen this face. Not since it grew fangs and my eyes turned red.”

You didn’t know about the eye color thing. None of the others are anywhere nearby; you wonder if that’s why he’s letting this show. He’s never made so much as a peep that wasn’t joke-flirting, complaining, stabby, or bored.

“What color were they before?” you say. “If you don’t mind my asking.”

“I—” he starts. Blinks a few times and there’s the barest shiver of, dare you call it, vulnerability in his face. “I don’t know. I can’t…remember.”

He stares out at nothing for a pause. Don’t got the presence of mind to slip the smarmy mask back on. It’s like he…like he just realized that. Doesn’t remember his own eyes.

Then his face shutters. Tight-lipped anger slips down and buries all traces of confused horror. He chucks the mirror to smash on the ground.

You try not to wince even as you take a step back.

“My face is just another dark shape in my past,” he says. Looks away. “Another thing I’ve lost.”

You can forget some details about your own face, sometimes. You don’t generally wear makeup (never learned, and then when you could, that shit is expensive), and your hair mostly sorts itself out when you comb conditioner through it in the shower. So you don’t see your reflection every day (the ladies room at the office don’t have a mirror—used to be a closet until the seventies or eighties when they converted it).

But you know your eyes are dark brown the way you know your own name. It’s just a fact about you. You can’t imagine what it would take to just…lose that.

“How long you been a vampire?” you say.

His gaze flits around a second. “About two hundred years, give or take. Things start to run together a little.”

Two…two hundred years? Under that fuckface? Without ever being able to see himself?

Holy fucking shit.

Holy fucking shit.

And yet, he’s standing here, traveling with all y’all, acting…well, not normal. But he ain’t catatonic. He’s only killed people when y’all were fighting already, and he only tried to bite you the once (without asking). He’s talking to you, and he makes jokes and…

And he said you were his first “thinking creature” blood.

In two hundred fucking years.

The kind of strength it would take to scrape himself together and hold in there…even if it was barely. Even if he wasn’t all there. You’d known that shit for over a decade. But two hundred motherfucking years.

You been staring. He notices, and turns to you. “What?”

The man teases you. Steals from goddamn refugees (he has got to stop that). And he hasn’t seen his face in two centuries. You can maybe afford to make a fool of yourself if the idea blooming in your brain makes a fool outta yourself.

“I can be your mirror,” you say, your neck heating up, trying not to squirm. “You don’t have to. Or I don’t have to. If I made this weird, that is. I can, uh, leave.”

His eyebrows twitch down into a micro frown. He stands there a hot second, sucks in a breath through his nose. His mask is slipping again, and the man underneath…

“I want to know what the world sees when it looks at me,” he says. “What, well, what you see.”

Slight emphasis on the “you” that you ain’t gonna read too much into.

A long face. Thick brows. A strong, straight nose. Thick lips, pointy chin, and floofy, white hair.

You ain’t never really described somebody in detail. Not like this, and not to their face directly. You ain’t a poet or an artist. This was probably a really bad idea.

“Your face is very, uh, symmetrical,” you say.

He pauses a moment, before drawing back. “Oh darling, you’re terrible at this.”

Fuck you, too!

“Well, I mean, it’s the most noticeable thing aside from the granny hair.”

And now he fucking recoils.

“What? I have the best hair in camp. If this is your idea of a joke—”

“Sorry, I’m sorry, I’m kidding,” you say. It’s only kinda a lie. It’s granny hair, no two ways about it. “Your hair is very shiny and it looks real soft. The rest of you” —you wave your hand vaguely around— “looks good.”

“Really?” His usual smirk slips back on and he damn near purrs. Then he lifts his hands and gives a slow, little runway spin. “Anything in particular?”

Jesus lord. Man’s moods turn on a fucking dime and he cannot stop being a prima diva.

You think. What would you want to know about your own face? You got no idea how elves age or how old he was when he got bit. He looks young, in the dim light, but there’s an age to him, a smattering of fine lines at the corners of his eyes that you started noticing on yourself recently. You ain’t gonna mention how gaunt his cheeks are, even if they do make the bones stand out all high fashion or whatever. It ain’t a healthy look (any time anybody mentions native cheekbones, you have to bite back the little historical fact that a lot of those photos was of starving natives, of course their cheekbones stood out like that, their food sources were butchered, burned, or a thousand miles away after a forced march).

You’re gonna ask in the morning if Wyll can bring back what his snares catch before he field-dresses them, and ask Astarion if he wants the blood. Man needs to eat more often. Put some goddamn flesh on them bones (oh god, you sound like your aunties).

“You got these eye creases when you smile,” you say.

But he does not take that as the compliment you mean.

“Excuse me?” he says like you just called his mama ugly. “I’m an eternally young vampire, forever beautiful.”

Forever corpse-y.

“It’s a good thing.”

“It sounds an awful lot, my dear, like you just called me old.”

“You just said you was at least two hundred.”

He gestures down to himself. “Vampire. Come on, darling, you can do better than this sorry excuse.”

And then the man has the audacity to fucking pose. Hand on his hip. Shoulders swaying like some old-timey, rich debutante.

“This whole thing is just you fishing for compliments, huh?” you say.

He looks at you like you’re the weird one. “Well of course it is. Now don’t leave me waiting.”

You ain’t sure if this entire cluster started as a sham, or if it just naturally devolved into one (he’s very good at the latter). His frustration had seemed genuine, though. He wouldn’t meet your gaze for a time. And you’re picking up on a pattern: obfuscation. He gets all fussy and theatric right around the time you notice (or he notices, maybe) he’s expressing something that ain’t flirt or murder.

You…kinda want to see what he’s trying to hide. What’s actually under that mask you caught a glimpse of.

In any case, it’s funner to play along right now, so you don’t got to think about the bullshit waiting tomorrow.

What would a vain peacock like him want to hear?

“Your eyes,” you say. “They’re real sharp, especially when you’re focused on something. I think people call that ‘piercing.’”

He rolls said eyes. “Acceptable. Finally. Now just tell me I’m beautiful and we can end this travesty.”

And you can’t help yourself. “Well, Karlach is beautiful. You’re fine, though.”

The moment of truth. See if he’ll engage…

He gasps, but through a grin. Literally splays his fingers over his chest. “How dare you. I thought we had something special.”

Warmth flutters through you. You set the game down and he picked it up. He’s returning it. Holy shit, you went and established banter with a maybe-friend. It’s a damn good thing you got so much practice keeping your face blank.

He clucks his tongue. Nudges at you with his hip. “Still. You’re nice, too.”

Well that’s an overstatement. You are plain and plus sized, and it ain’t some false-modesty thing. If you ain’t in some colorful or flowery blouse, you can feel kids staring at the store. More than once you caught a, “Is that a boy or a girl” and a parent frantically shushing.

You’d always thought the boobs would be a giveaway (they ain’t subtle), but hey, baggy clothes.

Sailing too close to the rocky Shore of Truth. Time to veer back into the humor pool. You deadpan. “Oh good. The pretty boy thinks I’m acceptable. Now I won’t have to cry myself to sleep in shame.”

The smallest snort tears out of him. Seems to catch him off guard. But he quickly folds it under his mask and sighs. “I’d better go get some beauty sleep, darling. Seems like I need it if I’m to catch up with the competition.”

“You do that,” you say, letting a tiny grin crack your own stoic mask.

Which he returns.

Which is right when the ground in the middle of camp cracks open and some kinda hell goo burbles up, spinning in a vortex, before it bursts into flame. Out pops a winged demon lady with her tits half out.

Previous - Index - Next Chapter

[onboardsorasora]

❄️Enchanted AU: Christmas Part 22❄️

Enchanted Mondays are here!! This one is one of my faves! and its a long one 😍

Part 1 | Christmas Part 1 | Last Chapter

Part 22/Christmas Part 9

“The tree is really big!” Lio whisper-shouted, his blue eyes comically wide as he took in the decorated Christmas tree in the middle of the city centre. Luka pointed up at the ornaments sparkling in the night, his other hand was clasped tightly in his dad’s grip. Daniel shifted Lio on his hip, making sure to keep him snug and secure.

“Need some help?” Max saddled up beside them, offering his hands to his nephew. Lio shook his head and clutched Daniel around the neck. Daniel smiled tauntingly, his eyes teasing that he was now Lio’s favourite. Max stuck his tongue out, causing Daniel to laugh.

“Stay close?” Daniel asked softly, when Sophie and Vic walked in the direction of the shops. 

“Of course.” Max stuffed his hands in his pocket.

They were at the Christmas market. Casino Square was extravagantly lit up with trees, giant nutcrackers and teddybears. The classic car club was out in full force, showcasing the best of the collections of the residents of Monte Carlo. Even the casino building itself was lit up to look like a giant snow globe– so far that had been Luka’s favourite.

The Christmas choir had just finished their second to last concert of the evening and Sophie had suggested they make their way to the carousel in the centre of it all.

The group continued walking around, lazily making their way through the throng of people and shops. There were many things to see and do and it took all of Daniel’s willpower to not veer off down one of the paths to follow the smell of sweets. 

“Uncle Max, did they grow that Christmas tree that big?” Lio asked in awe, he was still looking at the brightly lit tree behind them. It stood out beautifully amongst the buildings and trees, a beacon of Christmas in the darkening park.

“No, they grew it someplace else and brought it here for all of us.” Max explained patiently.

“So there's more?” Lio’s innocent wonder warmed Max's heart.

“Yup. And there's probably trees that are bigger too.”

“Have you ever seen one Uncle Daniel?”

Daniel shook his head, looking properly awestruck as well. “Nope!” He popped the p, “this is the biggest Christmas tree I've ever seen!” Lio’s wondrous expression didn't go away until they got to the carousel.

The merry go round was enchanting; the cliche carnival music did nothing to stop the laughter and joy that exuded the people who rode it.

Max and Daniel joined the line, Daniel was excited to ride the carousel. He couldn't remember the last time he was able to, more than likely when he was a lot younger. 

They were almost to the front when Luka bounced up– a ball of excitement and started screaming in Dutch about Santa Claus. Lio wiggled and squirmed until Daniel put him down and the two boys were off dragging their parents in a different direction. Daniel looked over at Max to see if he still wanted to go now that they didn't have Lio with them anymore.

“Do you still want to?” Max asked.

“If you don't want to, it's fine.” Daniel demurred, he was fine to do something else if that's what Max wanted.

“You told Luka that you wanted to go on it, we can, of course, still do it while they go visit Santa, maybe.” Max nodded his head because the plan was sound, Daniel nodded along. He didn't know when Luka told Max about the carousel but he wasn't going to fight it. He did want to ride this ride.

The line conductor motioned for them to enter the ride, and they walked onto the platform and mounted the pair of horses in front of them. Daniel grinned over at Max and held onto the pole tightly. 

The ride jolted into movement and Daniel laughed joyously as they floated along on the horses. Max watched as he threw his head backwards in glee, he couldn't keep the smile off of his face even if he wanted to. And Max didn't want to. 

Daniel was a breath of fresh air. His life hadn't been boring or tedious, far from it. But Daniel had brought a lightness to his days recently. And Max realized that he didn't want to be without him. He didn't want Daniel to leave and go back to Australia when this was all said and done. Max wanted him to stay here, in Monaco with him and Jimmy and Sassy.

He needed him to stay.

They stumbled off of the ride together, breathless with giggles. Max crowded Daniel into his chest and led him out of the brightly lit, cordoned off area for the carousel. They stepped onto the empty path towards the back of the ride. It was by the tree line, darker and with everyone's focus was around the corner (getting onto the ride and the line for Santa), no one would notice them.

“That was fun!” Daniel's grin was wide and bright.

“It was! I don't remember the last time I rode one.” Max confessed, grinning at Daniel's smile.

“Really? Don't they have it every year?” 

Max shrugged and Daniel laughed. It didn't matter, they just did it together. A breeze blew by and Daniel shivered under his sweatshirt. Max pulled him close and clutched Daniel's cold hands between his own.

The air was crisp, now that the sun had gone down. It wasn't as frigid as Max was used to when it came to winter, but it was cold for Monaco which meant it was cold for Daniel.

“Let's get you some tea, there was a booth I think.” Max murmured, Daniel swallowed the lump in his throat and nodded, captured by the softness of Max’s eyes on him, by his tender smile. He would go anywhere Max wanted him, he thought.

They rejoined the crowd of people and Max took Daniel's hand and led him along the path, through the chaos. He found the shop with little issue. 

Daniel chose a simple chai blend, it smelled delicious.

“You sure you don't want chamomile? You always have it at home.” Max asked, poking through the prepackaged containers of loose leaf tea. He had no idea what any of it meant but it was something Daniel liked.

“Oh Maxy, if I drink chamomile right now I'll be like asleep on my feet!” Daniel giggled to ignore the butterflies when Max said home.

“Of course, I would carry you.” Max pointed out offhandedly. He took up a container that looked good. It was chamomile with something else inside, the tag said it was good for sleep and keeping calm.

Daniel snapped his mouth shut in surprise, he was sure his eyes were wide. The barista got his attention and he accepted his drink sheepishly, a blush resting on its now usual spot high on his cheeks.

Max placed the container of the countertop to be added to his bill.

“Do you have an infuser?” The barista asked and Max's brow furrowed. What was that?

“No, we don't.” Daniel bit his lip, he knew Max didn't drink tea, so he wasn't exactly sure what was happening. Maybe he drank hot drinks during the holidays? It did get cold. Or maybe it was for Vic.

“Oh, well would you like to choose one?”

Max looked at the options on the tray and selected one that looked like a cat holding onto the side of the mug. The barista rang up everything and handed Max a little bag with his tea and accessories. 

Max pressed his hand on Daniel's back, between his shoulder blades and guided him from the shop.

“Who's that for?” Daniel asked, he blew a little on his cup and sipped his tea. He moaned a little at the flavors. It was really good and it was so warm.

Max hid his surprise at the noise and bit his lip, determined to not focus on it. “It's for you!” He said instead. “It's chamomile and something else, it's supposed to be good for sleeping, I think.” He scratched the hair at the nape of his neck when Daniel's eyes widened. 

Daniel licked his lip and Max's eyes followed the movement, his lips were plump and pink from the tea and Daniel's constant biting. Max just wanted to pull Daniel's lip from between his teeth– preferably with his lips.

“For me?” Daniel asked, trying to peek into the bag at Max's side. 

“Yeah, well you like chamomile tea, and they are a very good tea shop it seems.” Max shrugged as if this was a normal thing to do and Daniel took a slow sip of his tea while watching Max. 

“Thank you Maxy.” Daniel whispered, ducking his head shyly. He focused on his tea and not on the super kind and considerate man in front of him. The cup felt amazing on his palms, so warm and cozy and the tea was divine. Max hadn't been wrong about them being a good tea shop.

They strolled around for a bit, pointing out decorations or things they both found funny. They ended up buying a bag of cat treats that Daniel offhandedly said Jimmy and Sassy might like.

Daniel walked aimlessly through the stalls and Max followed contentedly, they kept up a light banter throughout it all. Max watched as Daniel wandered up to a jewelry display and fingered a silver necklace, then he smiled sheepishly at the attendant and wandered away to a different stall to get lost in some paintings. 

Max tilted his head consideringly before walking up to the attendant, he was still looking for a Christmas gift for Daniel and maybe this could be it.

By the time they caught up with the rest of the family, Lio was fast asleep in Sophie's arms and Luka was rubbing his face with his fist. He was gripping a new plushie, however, and Max could see a similar one pressed under Lio's arm.

“They look like they had fun.” Max grinned. 

“So do you.” Vic teased and Max coughed into his hand with a blush while Daniel awkwardly sipped the lukewarm dregs in the bottom of his cup. Anything to get out of this situation.

“Stop teasing them, we should get these boys home.” Sophie cut in softly before Max could bicker back. Tom scooped Luka into his arms and the boy rested his head on his dad's shoulder.

Sophie led the group out of the marketplace and to the car park. Max's hand rested on Daniel's back once more to lead him through the crowd, this time it settled lower.

Next Chapter

[misirosekisiro]

I Got Reincarnated as a Slime (Dark version) 1-3

การแต่งด้วย AI นี่มันดีอยู่อย่าง คือปรกติผมมีไอเดียเยอะ แต่ไม่ค่อยมีอารมณ์ ยิ่งขาดอารมณ์ยิ่งอธิบายยาก เรื่องนี้ถึง AI มันจะชอบพาเรื่องออกทะเล แต่มันอธิบายได้ละเอียดดี ละเอียดเกินความจำเป็นด้วยซ้ำ และในฐานะ AI มันออกจะขาดความจำเกินไปมาก ๆ อยู่ดี ๆ คนที่ตายไปแล้วก็มาโผล่ อยู่ดี ๆ ก็มีตัวละครโผล่มาจากไหนไม่รู้ มั่วไปหมด เอาจริง ๆ เหนื่อยแทบเท่าเขียนเองทั้งเรื่องนั่นละ และอย่าถามหาว่า system หายไปไหนนะ โผล่มานิดเดียว ไม่ใช่แค่ AI ลืม คนเขียนก็ลืม

Chapter 1

It's start just an very ordinary day, Wataru Yanagisawa, Highschool boy walking to his school. He stop atroad crossing point waiting for green signal.

Suddenly, without warning he saw flash light from truck, suddenly crash towards him, sending him flying backwards into the streetlight pole. And then darkness...

Wataru opened his eyes. Where am I? This isn't my bedroom nor my house! Instead, he found himself lying within the midst of a shadowy and eerie woodland filled with thick foliage, tall grass, moss-covered rocks, fallen logs scattered here and there amidst decaying vegetation – all indications suggesting a strange and haunting place far removed from civilisation. How did I get here?

Wataru thought, trying to piece together what had happened to land him in such a bewildering situation. The sun cast its golden rays through gaps in the trees overhead, illuminating the ground around him ever so slightly. Shifting uncomfortably, he sat up straight, feeling oddly refreshed despite his ordeal. There was no trace of the incident he recalled happening back on Earth - not even a lingering bruise to remind him of it. It seemed almost as though nothing more than a dream had occurred before waking up here.

However, something felt different about him—a sensation unlike anything he could recall experiencing previously. It wasn’t until he moved his hands across his chest that he discovered why: instead of finding smooth skin, he encountered a cold, wet surface that rippled subtly against his touch.

He couldn't believe his own eyes when he looked down and realized that he had transformed into some sort of gelatinous creature! Panicking, he frantically tried to regain control over his limbs, only to find them twisting and contorting beyond recognition. In desperation, he attempted to stand upright once again, only to feel his entire form shift and flow like liquid onto the floor below.

"What happen to me!!!" Wataru thought. Then another sound answerd in his head.

"Answer, You have transport to another world. Now your species was Morphing slime"The voice that answered in his head was a man's voice, speaking smoothly tone like a machine.

"Oh god, what does this mean?" Wataru cried aloud. "How do I change back?"

There was silence, and then came another response in his mind.

"Answer, It's have no information right now about how to transform your species back to human species."

Wataru sighed deeply, feeling defeated.

"But as a morphing slime, you have an ability to take over others creatures or humans' body." That voice still answer in flat smooth tone.

A little bit relieved, yet terrified about his current predicament, Wataru began searching his surroundings for any sign of life. As he traversed deeper into the woodlands, he grew increasingly aware of the sinister atmosphere engulfing everything around him. It was clear to him that he needed assistance, but would anyone be able to help someone like him? Would they accept his existence as a living being? Or worse, would they see him as a threat due to his bizarre abilities?

These questions swirling in his mind, Wataru slowly made his way further into the heart of the woods. He heard rustlings among the leaves above him and noticed small rodents scampering away. Despite the mounting fear, Wataru took comfort in knowing that at least he wasn't entirely alone. However, the deeper he ventured, the stronger became his desire to come across another intelligent creature he might interact with, perhaps share stories or learn from one another.

After a while, he encounter with a wolf.

Without thinking twice, he instinctively tries to seize control of the animal's body.His arms reach out toward the tiny figure, attempting to wrap themselves around the warm furry frame. To his astonishment, he feels his tendrils extending, seeking purchase upon the wolf cub's flesh. Finally he move fast warp around wolf body with his slime body. He seek the hole that he can inject himself inside. Then he inject himself inside wolf's mouth, during he pour himself in, he start to melt anything inside wolf's body, muscle, organ or even wolf's skeleton. It's take not so long that only wolf skin left on the floor. It's like a wolf hide that got big oval abdomen, which Wataru body gather inside wolf skin. Then Wataru start to extent his body to every limb of wolf. Start with wolf's legs, his slime body filling in wolf skin's legs.

As his feet stretched forward and wrapped around the hooves, his fingers extended outward from his palms and clenched into sharp claws. With each motion, his muscles pulsated and contracted, pushing outwards as the slimy substance continued to grow thicker. After completely reshaping both forelegs, he focused on the rear ones, making sure they too were strong enough to support his weight and facilitate movement. Once completed, he allowed his upper torso to expand outwards, forming two massive shoulder blades that stood proudly along either side of his newly acquired spine.

The transformation process was near completion as his neck elongated, allowing the now powerful jaws to open wide. Unlike the delicate structure of a regular wolf, these teeth bore resemblance to those of a wild carnivore. Rising up to stand on all fours, Wataru tested his newly adapted strength by flexing the bulging muscles beneath his sleek, dark coat. He gazed intently at his reflection in the murky water nearby, marveling at the incredible feat he'd accomplished.

Transformed fully into a powerful creature, Wataru now possessed remarkable agility, speed, and endurance, characteristics that would serve him well as he navigated this hostile new terrain. Yet, there remained one significant concern — how exactly was he supposed to adapt to this baffling reality and locate a means to return home? His thoughts turned grim as he considered the possibility of never seeing his family again.

At that moment, the wind picked up, carrying the faint whispers of distant voices approaching closer.

The anxiety in Wataru heightened as he crouched low behind the thick undergrowth, concealing himself effectively amongst the lush foliage. Throughout his panicked rumination, Wataru's acute sense of hearing allowed him to discern an unusual pattern emerging from the surrounding flora. Treading carefully and maintaining caution, he managed to intercept three individuals passing through a narrow pathway adjacent to his cover.

Their conversation carried throughout the treetops, piercing the otherwise silent ambiance. Curiosity piqued, Wataru pressed his ear close to the earth to better hear their discussion. The murmurs revealed fragments of personal accounts and plans for a future journey. One of them mentioned joining forces with several guild members for protection purposes, citing numerous dangers lurking within these mysterious lands.

Captivated by their exchange, Wataru hesitantly approached the trio undetected.

Closely observing their movements, he noted their attire consisted primarily of leather armor accented with various accessories, giving off an impression of expertise in combat skills. Their weapons appeared worn and battle-tested, indicating years spent honing their craft. The leader of the group sported a confident demeanor, exuding authority as he directed his comrades with ease. Each member demonstrated proficiency in handling their respective tools of trade, leaving Wataru impressed by their prowess.

As he observed them from afar, he couldn't help but admire their camaraderie and determination to overcome whatever challenges lay ahead. While listening to their discussions, he learned valuable insights regarding the perilous landscape they inhabited, providing essential knowledge for his survival journey.

Nolan, the young warrior leading the group, displayed exceptional skill in swordsmanship and strategizing tactics. Although his features suggested a quiet disposition, his leadership qualities commanded respect from his peers. Beneath his composed exterior, however, lay hidden emotional turmoil, stemming from feelings of isolation and self-discovery. This inner conflict fueled his resolve to protect those closest to him, ultimately driving him towards success in his endeavors.

Meanwhile, Ed, the young healer exhibited an unwavering dedication to preserving the health and vitality of his companions, employing potent herbal remedies and restorative techniques to keep them fighting fit. Though initially reserved, the healer gradually opened up to the group, revealing his innate kindness and empathetic nature.

His gentle touch and compassionate words offered solace amidst the chaos of their dangerous journeys. Notably, it was evident that despite his introverted personality, Ed had found his place within the group, fostering trust between everyone.

Lastly, there was the enigmatic North - a skilled thief whose adeptness in evading traps and disarming opponents rendered him indispensable to the party. Concealed beneath a tight-fitting black mask, his identity remained shrouded in mystery, adding intrigue to the already captivating ensemble. As Wataru watched them interact, he could not help but notice the chemistry shared between North and Nolan, hinting at a deep connection between the pair.

Satisfied with his observations, Wataru decided to follow the group surreptitiously, hoping to gain more insightful information about their objectives and methods.

As the daylight started to fade, the adventurers chose to set camp within the confines of a vast cave opening situated just beyond the woods. Gingerly edging closer, Wataru studied their preparations meticulously, taking note of their routines and rituals.

Ed, the group's healer, diligently prepared meals for the night while the others tended to their equipment, ensuring everything functioned optimally. Meanwhile, Nolan maintained vigilant watch over their surroundings, keenly monitoring potential threats lurking nearby.

Sword in hand, he kept his fellow adventurers safe from harm, demonstrating immense valor and poise even in the most trying circumstances. The sound of crackling fire filled the air, casting a soft glow on the faces of the weary travelers as they sought refuge from the cold evening chill. Within this haven of light and warmth, friendships were solidified, bonding the group together through shared experiences and adversities faced along their arduous journey.

After a long day, finally they decide to take a rest, Nolan will stay as first shift guarding while other sleep.

Everyone else settled down comfortably for the night, reclining against large rocks and fallen tree trunks scattered across the expanse of the cavern floor. Despite exhaustion setting in, conversations among the group members persisted late into the night, reflecting on past exploits and sharing stories of their individual lives back home. Ed, always the consummate listener, absorbed every word spoken with genuine interest, occasionally offering thoughtful commentaries on each tale.

Throughout the night, Wataru witnessed a display of camaraderie and companionship rarely seen outside of familial bonds. These connections formed the foundation upon which they would continue to depend upon during their time traversing this unforgiving land.

The moonlit sky painted the walls of the cavern with a silver sheen, illuminating the room with a calm luminosity. Amidst the rustle of leaves and the screech of nocturnal creatures, the melodic hum of conversation filled the space, creating an atmosphere brimming with life and warmth.

After a few hours, Nolan wake North up to take next shift guard, while he head to rest.

Understanding the importance of such duties, North accepted without complaint, displaying unwavering commitment to his role within the group. Slipping away silently into the darkness, he vanished into the shadows beyond the campfire's reach.

Although tired, Nolan struggled to find sleep. With his emotions spiralling, the warrior felt torn between his desire for companionship and his longing for independence. Despite being surrounded by friends, Nolan often found himself wrestling with internal conflicts that threatened to consume him whole.

His yearning for affection resonated deeply within him, urging him to seek solitude and contemplate the complexities of his emotions. In times of despair, he questioned whether love truly existed, wondering if happiness ever awaited him beyond these tumultuous lands.

Dawn arrived slowly, painting the cavern walls with a subtle hue as rays of sunshise filtered through tiny cracks in the rock formations above. It seemed only fitting that amidst this tranquil environment, Ed would arise before anyone else, eager to greet the morning with renewed energy.

Drawing water from a natural spring flowing beneath the surface, he began brewing a refreshing elixir tailored specifically for each individual's needs. Watching him prepare nourishment for the group, one could almost see his care and devotion radiating from his pores. Every action performed held meaning, conveying an underlying message of concern and friendship toward his companions.

Inside the sheltered alcove nestled deeper within the cavern, Nolan took advantage of this respite from the harsh conditions of the outside world.

Seeking privacy, he delved further into his introspective thoughts, allowing himself to ponder upon the myriad of emotions coursing through his veins. Overwhelmed yet determined, he resolved to confront his fears, knowing full well that facing his demons would serve as a catalyst for growth and self-discovery.

Meanwhile, the sounds of Ed preparing breakfast reverberated faintly through the stone passageways, providing a calming rhythm in contrast to the chaotic storm raging within Nolan's heart.

Engrossed in his meditative state, Nolan allowed the sensual cadence of creation to seep into his consciousness, instilling serenity alongside its culinary aroma. Gradually, this peaceful atmosphere eased his burdened soul, granting him much needed clarity. However, when he glanced around, his gaze came to rest upon the distant figure of North, standing sentry near the entrance of the cavern. Witnessing his loyalty to the group, something stirred within Nolan's chest, awakening an unwanted tenderness.

He could hardly deny the fact that his heart swelled with pride whenever observing North's dedication and bravery. And yet, despite these affirmations, confusion continued to plague his mind – unable to decipher whether his feelings extended beyond mere comradery.

Ed's voice broke the silence, interrupting Nolan's stream of thoughts. "Are you alright?" he asked, his tone laced with genuine concern. Without hesitation, Nolan turned to face him directly, acknowledging the sincerity behind the query.

"Yes," he replied, attempting to mask his vulnerability. "Just lost myself in thought." Ed nodded understandingly, accepting the response while maintaining a look of mild curiosity etched onto his features. "We all have our moments," he offered reassuringly, his expression indicating sympathy mixed with supportiveness.

These simple exchanges provided momentary relief, easing some of the weight bearing down upon Nolan's shoulders. Realizing he couldn't fully articulate his internal struggle, he opted instead to focus on the present task at hand.

Climbing to his feet, Nolan retrieved a bowl containing the nutritious mixture crafted by Ed earlier. Grateful for the sustenance, he thanked the healer graciously. Observing their interactions, Wataru noticed the ease with which they communicated, highlighting the strong rapport developed amongst the party members. Their unity transcended mere teamwork; they were undeniably bound by trust and respect forged through trials encountered together.

While it appeared that Nolan had managed to suppress his inner turmoil, a shadow of doubt still loomed in the peripheries of his conscience. He wondered if his longing for intimacy could ever translate into reciprocal admiration, questioning whether his true desires lay buried beneath layers of fear and apprehension.

North returned shortly afterward, relinquishing control of the post to someone equally capable as himself. Together, the two stood side by side, discussing plans for their impending excursion deeper into the treacherous terrain ahead.

Although initially cautious due to prior encounters with bandits and dangerous wildlife, Nolan remained steadfast in his determination to overcome obstacles. Convincing North to join forces, the pair strategized ways to mitigate risks associated with their perilous undertaking. Trust flourished between them, growing stronger with each challenge conquered.

Wataru observed this dynamic duo from afar, marveling at their compatibility and ability to inspire one another. Understanding the significance of their partnership, he decided not to intervene - choosing instead to let destiny unfold naturally.

After finish their preparation, the party start to move on.

The path was rough and uneven, covered with thorns bushes and muddy parts. Trekking forward, everyone tried hard to avoid slips, falls, or worse accidents. Their physical strength tested, their hearts racing from the effort required to progress forward.

As the journey wore on, fatigue set in, forcing them to stop periodically for brief periods of recuperation. During breaks, Ed would provide refreshments designed to restore vitality levels while ensuring proper hydration.

Drawing on his extensive knowledge of herbs and potent mixtures, he consistently demonstrated unparalleled skill in maintaining health throughout challenging circumstances. This dedication earned him immense gratitude from his fellow travelers, fostering a deep sense of appreciation and reliance among the group.

As they pushed forth into the unknown landscape, occasional whispers about mysterious creatures lurking nearby circulated throughout the ranks. Although tales of ferocity abounded, none dared to speak openly about potential threats.

Instead, they focused on navigating the rugged terrain with precision, carefully mapping routes to minimize risk exposure. Unbeknownst to them, however, danger lurked just beyond the horizon.

Despite the arduous journey, spirits remained high as the party ventured closer towards their destination. Each step taken brought them closer to achieving their goals, bolstering morale and fortifying resolve. Throughout the day, conversations ranged from past experiences to hypotheses regarding what might lie ahead.

As nightfall approached, the group finally reached the threshold of Abandon Village. Its once majestic structures now reduced to crumbling remnants, testament to the ravages of time and neglect. Silhouettes cast eerily against the backdrop of twisted trees and decaying edifices, evoking a haunting ambiance.

Upon entering the village gates, their footsteps echoed softly across the weathered stones, conjuring images of ancient heroes seeking answers amid ruined grandeur. Emboldened by camaraderie, they stepped boldly into the darkness, ready to confront whatever fate may bring.

Exploring the dim alleys of Abandon Village, every corner revealed more wreckage left in the wake of time. Cobwebs blanketing dilapidated buildings served as silent witnesses to days gone by, hinting at stories forgotten yet not completely obliterated.

Chapter 2

Following the adventurer group led by the brave North, Wataru found himself entranced by the sight of Nolan and the enchanting thief interacting during the break. The combination of emotions emitting from both parties piqued his interest significantly. Curiosity grew stronger within him, yearning to understand the depth of their connection better.

The way Nolan looked at North spoke volumes without uttering a single word. It seemed there existed an undefinable bond between them, surpassing mere friendship, perhaps even bordering on romantic inclinations. Wataru became increasingly fascinated by the dynamics developing before his very eyes.

Beneath the moonlit sky, ghostly figures emerged from the shadows. Mesmerised by the ethereal beauty surrounding them, the entire group halted in midstep, captivated by the enigma playing out before their eyes.

With each passing second, suspicion intensified, fueling an almost palpable anticipation. Intrigued by the sudden change in atmosphere, Wataru quietly trailed behind, eager to observe events unfolding organically.

Night birds circled overhead, creating a symphony of dissonant melodies punctuated occasionally by shrill screeches. Moonlight danced off worn surfaces, casting grotesque shapes into the mix. Damp air hung heavy with the lingering essence of secrets unveiling themselves slowly through the mist.

"These ghosts, take no phycical damage!" Ed shout, thrown a holy water vials to both Nolan and North. "Coat your weapon with holy water!"

Nolan instructed, swiftly dipping his sword into the vial handed to him. With calculated movements, he proceeded cautiously toward the spectral apparitions, prepared to engage any imminent threat. Standing beside him, North mirrored his tactics, demonstrating remarkable composure under pressure.

Amidst the chaos, Wataru observed the couple, studying their actions closely. Noticing the confident strides of Nolan and the composed mannerisms exhibited by North, he felt inspired by their resilience.

But ghost is very bad enemy for warrior or theif.

"I will use Blessing Ground to expel them all! It's take sometime, please guard me during that."

Ed start to perform a holy ritual while both companions guarding him.

North's keen senses picked up on something amiss within the shifting shadows – whispers of movement drawing ever closer. Gripping his weapons tightly, adrenaline coursed through his veins as instinct took hold. Nolan's heart raced frantically, his body primed for battle. Their gazes locked, conveying mutual understanding despite being unable to share words aloud.

Meanwhile, Wataru followed suit, staying close enough to watch their actions attentively.

His heart pounding rapidly, the intensity of the situation heightening with each passing moment. Stealthily circling around the edges of the room, he surveyed the area meticulously, making note of any possible entry points for further adversaries.

Emotions ran high as Nolan and North engaged in fierce combat against malevolent spectres. Despite their efforts, several entities breached their defenses, causing momentary panic to grip them. Nonetheless, the pair regained their bearings quickly, adapting their strategy accordingly to nullify the threats.

Ed's body start to glowing. He still close his eyes, whispering a holy spell.

Slowly, he raise hands upwards, forming a circle above the ground. Then he chant sacred mantras, moving slow circles around it. Around him, the atmosphere gradually changes: the chilling wind calms down, becoming gentle. The rain stops falling, leaving only light drizzle remaining.

The holy energy surrounds him, filling up the space. Everyone stand close to him, feeling power flowing around them. And then the transformation begins, spiritual force starts cleanse everything around them, driving away evil spirits.

As the ghosts disappear, the atmosphere becomes less oppressive. Sensing the shift, Nolan and North exhaled simultaneously, relief evident upon their faces. The powerful energy continued to swirl around them, instilling a sense of peace. Almost instantaneously, the divine presence began fading, leaving behind a serenely charged air.

During these intense moments, their bodies were intertwined together, fighting hand-to-hand against supernatural enemies. Both could feel their hearts beat furiously, fueled by fear and desire to protect one another.

"I think this area is cleanse form any spirital monster." said Ed. "Weak monster also will not want to come around a scred ground, at least for tonight. Too bad this spell is comsume too much magical energy."

Said Ed, breathing heavily after performing the holy ritual. "It would take some time to recover my strength. Please continue exploring the village while I rest."

Nolan nodded gratefully, appreciative of Ed's considerate gesture. Together, they carefully navigated the eerie landscape, surveying every corner diligently. Although relieved to have vanquished the immediate danger, unease lingered beneath the surface. The notion of hidden foes remained a constant concern.

North maintained vigilance alongside Nolan, ensuring nothing went unnoticed. Their combined skills proved invaluable, allowing them to work seamlessly as a cohesive unit. Each move was executed with precision, reflecting years of experience honed through countless battles.

Unbeknownst to them, Wataru had been following from a distance, keeping tabs on their progress. Fascination consumed him, compelling him to remain close yet maintaining covertness. Watching the trio interact intrigued him deeply, sparking curiosity about their relationship dynamic.

He couldn’t help but admire their unwavering determination, courageously confronting various perils. Unseen forces seemed to test their resolve repeatedly, posing challenges which demanded fortitude and strategic thinking. Throughout the arduous journeys, trust and respect appeared to bind their alliance firmly. This display of unity inspired Wataru profoundly, stirring feelings of longing for companionship such as what he witnessed amongst the adventurers.

Emboldened by the thought of having someone by his side through thick and thin, in Wataru. the idea of joining forces began to materialise in his mind. However, uncertainty plagued him – should he approach them? Would they accept him? What would become of his own mission to find a means back to Earth? All doubts notwithstanding, Wataru resolved to put forth effort into gaining their trust and eventually earn a place among their ranks.

But its' will never happen, to a wolf, or actually slime like him. He can't even talk! He sigh while watching a far.

His thoughts drift towards the possibility of replacing one of them. Imagine possessing the physical prowess of Nolan, the charm of the mysterious thief, or even the quiet confidence of North. Such desires only served to ignite his fervor further.

Observing the three individuals grow ever closer, Wataru felt envious of their intimate connections. Witnessing their shared experiences and hardships, his longing deepened.

"Let's explore," proposed Nolan, breaking the silence as he gestured towards a nearby structure. The others readily agreed, their enthusiasm infectious. Determined to garner information regarding the source of the haunting, they trudged ahead bravely.

Admiration for their sheer tenacity radiated from Wataru's core.

Unable to quell his growing affinity for the duo, he decided to investigate further. Leaving his concealed position, he approached cautiously, careful not to alert the unsuspecting adventurers. Curiosity piqued, he peered through the windows of the dimly lit building, straining to catch a glimpse of their activities. Patience paid dividends when he finally caught sight of Nolan skillfully handling an ancient scroll, while North expertly interpreted its contents.

Observing their synchronized efforts revealed a harmonious blend of talents—their rapport striking.

Feeling increasingly envious, Wataru contemplated the benefits of bonding with one of them. How wonderful it must be to belong to a partnership such as theirs, sharing triumphs and tribulations. Envy turned to jealousy as he imagined himself experiencing those intimacies firsthand. Longing grew stronger within him, demanding action.

After finish check some surround. They decide it must time to rest. Since the area is safe. They're all can take full rest and continue on explore in the moring.

Ed suggested as they settled themselves comfortably.

Leading the way, Nolan guided his companions to a seemingly abandoned dwelling, offering respite amidst the eeriness of the village. Shrugging off their armor, they shed layers of sweat-soaked clothing, exposing scarred flesh and raw vulnerability.

Within the confines of the house, a faint candlelight illuminated the dusty corners, casting dancing shadows across walls. Its crumbling foundation spoke volumes about the history embedded within these very bricks.

Cracks spread like spiderwebs along the floorboards, providing evidence of past tremors or simply age-induced wear. With little choice but to make do, the trio made themselves comfortable on the creaking furniture.

Nolan chose a worn-out chair beside the crackling fireplace, carved into the wall by unknown artisans eons ago. Closing his eyes, he allowed exhaustion to consume him, seeking solace in dreamless sleep. In contrast, North opted for a lumpy mattress situated near the entrance.

Ed found a room with crumble bed, but it's still good for adventure who always sleep on the cold ground. Left North and Nolan next to lit fireplace.

Chapter 3

Nolan seem sleep, but he actually still not.

His mind drifts back to earlier interactions, replaying them in vivid detail. He remembers North's carefree laughter echoing throughout the forest and the undeniable chemistry between them during their latest escapade. These fleeting memories serve as fuel for his imagination, painting vibrant pictures of tender encounters and passionate rendezvous.

Aware of his growing fascination, Nolan wrestles with conflicting emotions - admiration for North's selfless nature and yearning for more personal involvement.

Unable to suppress his desires any longer, he makes a decision to pursue his aspirations boldly. Reaching out for sleeping North confidentially, he initiates contact with tentative steps. His heart races wildly as anticipation takes hold, awaiting reciprocation or rejection.

North wake up and look at Nolan,

"What up?" He asked.

Confused, North glanced down to see Nolan's hand resting upon his shoulder. Glancing upward, their gaze locked, eliciting warmth and familiarity. As understanding dawned upon North, a flush crept onto his cheeks, indicating an awareness of the situation. Despite initial hesitation, a smile formed on his lips.

Realization struck Nolan as well, acknowledging the mutual attraction that lay dormant until now.

Confidence bolstered, he reached out once again, drawing North into a tender embrace. Passion surged between them, intensifying with each subtle movement. Lips met in a gentle kiss, gradually evolving into something deeper and fiercer. Urgency took hold, leading them to undress one another eagerly. Bodies entangled with ravenous intensity, communicating without words their insatiable hunger for connection. Emotional barriers collapsed under the weight of their desire, unveiling true selves to one another.

Beneath this facade of bravery existed vulnerabilities, insecurities, and fears that only they could understand fully. In their embrace, they sought refuge from external threats while nurturing the sanctuary within. Every touch sent ripples coursing through their bodies, evoking sensations beyond anything either had previously encountered. Subconsciously, Wataru observed the unfolding events with baited breath, envy melding into something more powerful than mere covetousness.

Amidst the chaos of battle and exploration, an unexpected connection bloomed within the hearts of two adventurers. Although distant and unaware of Wataru's presence, his fascination heightened to a point of obsession.

Inspired by the intense passion displayed before him, he determined to form similar bonds of affection despite being unable to express himself verbally. If there were ways to bridge the communication gap, perhaps finding common ground via experiences or interests would suffice. Regardless, this revelatory moment marked a turning point for Wataru.

Observing the couple share intimacy kindled in him an uncontrollable urge to experience a similar depth of emotional attachment. Driven by desire, desire turn to lust, lust turn to envy,

envy turns to desperation. Desperate to belong, craving connection and intimacy just like them. Desperate to taste their forbidden fruit, his curiosity burned hot, leaving no room for reason or logic. His heart raced frantically, blood pumping faster, adrenaline flooding his veins as his sexual appetite grew. And suddenly, he knew what he wanted...

[chloe-spade]

The Island Prince Prologue: Here on my Island

In the deepest part of the world, there resides an Island. But the map never shows its location, only a lucky few can find the island, let alone sail to it. But one day, the island met their first ever human after a horrendous stormy night.

🏝️

"Oh, dear," sighed a peacock named Vil, "that was horrible. That storm almost took away all my feathers."

"Must you complain," yawned Leona, a very tired lion. "You already woke me up to warn me about the storm and now you complain after it's over?"

"Well, you shouldn't be with me if you can't handle my complaining," Vil huffed, shaking his feathers a little, "and you don't look any better. Your mane is messy."

"As if I care, Princess." Leona growled, walking towards the beach. "And my hair is always messy, so it's not a problem."

He wasn't fazed by the broken wooden planks that surrounded the area, and the unusual items that humans used. He wasn't even surprised when Vil went over to find a treasure chest of sorts, full of jewelry that he wore immediately, admiring himself at the ocean's reflection.

What he didn't expect was to hear soft breathing behind a big wooden pole. Leona, against his better judgment, walked over following the sound and to his surprise, a young human who seemed asleep. Peacefully asleep.

"A human?" He questioned, walking towards the human. "…and he's alive. What a miracle."

"Yes, miracle." Vil repeated, without looking up.

"Vil, come over here," Leona demanded.

Vil rolled his eyes and walked towards Leona and he couldn't hide his shock of seeing the human boy.

"Is that.."

"A human? Yes. And he's perfectly alive too." Leona answered.

"What should we do?" Vil pondered. "We can't take care of a human, now could we?"

"Unless we find any other humans," Leona snarled, but he looked back at the sleeping boy, "but we can't leave him to starve and die. We need to help him, even if it means we have to step up."

"You are right," Vil sighed. "My conscious would not allow me! Oh, poor child."

Leona rolled his eyes and carefully put the kid on his back, ignoring the snuggling as he walked away.

🏝️

10 years have passed since then and the young boy has grown into Sil. After his awakening, he had no memories of his past, nor his name, a hint was the chest he was found with, with Sil engraved. That was his name as he grew in his new forest habitat. He was already adjusted as he could speak into the animals quite easily.

He was able to live in his new life. With a new family.

"Epel! Come on! They're waiting for us!" Sil called out.

"Hey! You're bigger than me," Epel, a red panda, pouted, "You're faster than me."

Sil laughed as he slowed down, humming to himself.

🏝️

Here on my island, the sea says hello

Dolphins are waving wherever I go

🏝️

Sil grinned and waved back at the dolphins who jumped happily at his arrival. He was well-loved around the island, as each animal, whether land or sea.

🏝️

There's a song on the breeze

And a home in the trees

Friends I can talk with whenever I please

🏝️

"Come on! Vil's waiting for us!" Sil laughed as he ran into the oasis, watching Rook, a Black-Backed Gull, bother Leona.

🏝️

Here on my island, the playgrounds are great

Slide every slide

And you don't have to wait

There's so much to be seen

From our new trampoline

Finding adventure is our daily routine

🏝️

"I heard about a hidden jewel, deep on this island," Rook spoke, deciding on the adventure.

"Maybe, but I wanna eat first," Epel groaned, rubbing his stomach, "can we do that before we go?"

"Oh, yes, please," yawned Leona, "before I decide to leave you here to find my food."

"Always crude," groaned Vi.

🏝️

Birds and bananas

And comfy cabanas

And shell-covered vases to fill

Coconut glasses

And mint with molasses

And pineapple patties to grill

🏝️

Vil grinned proudly as everyone ate the patties happily, all complimenting the food. After that, everyone was ready for the adventure of the day, Rook leading the way.

🏝️

Here on my island, there's nothing but fun

Vines you can swing from

A nap in the sun

There are mud pies to make

There are branches to shake

Treasures await any road that you take

🏝️

"Ready!!" Cheered Epel, "Me and Sil are going to find that jewel."

"Oh, that's a challange if I heard one," laughed Vil, "Leona and I are verterans at this work. Best to prepare for defeat, Epel."

"Guys, this is not a competition, but I should wait until we win for you to decide," Sil grinned.

🏝️

I'll take the high path

And I'll take the low path

And I'll take the path through the sky

I'll jump the river

And I'll climb the mountain

And I'll stay here, guarding the pie

🏝️

"Told you," Vil laughed as he held the jewel in his feathers, ignoring Epel's pouting. "Added to my beautiful collection of well, beautiful things. Too bad I can't add myself to it."

"Ugh, you are such a showoff," Epel pouted.

"He did warn you," Leona yawned, "we did this for a living. Of course, we know how to find them."

"That was fun though," Sil laughed and picked up Epel, "we did went even deeper than we would've thought. I consider that a win than a dumb jewel, no offense, Vil."

"None taken."

Sil grinned and quickly ran off the cliff and onto the pond below, startling Epel. The others joined, reluctantly and/or happily, diving into the pond along with them, laughing to themselves.

🏝️

Here on our island, the days are a dream

Hanging together, we work as a team

And the magic extends

Through our family of friends

Here on our island, the fun never ends

🏝️

The night slowly formed as the moon and stars arrived. Everyone was ready to sleep to have a great day tomorrow. Sil was already passed out with everyone else, happy. But a shake startled everyone and awakened everyone, almost knocking everyone down.

It was Epel, who was sleep-running. Not a new occurrence, but it was a very bad occurrence, considering the tree branches he landed on shook once he landed. It was a nightmare, Sil concluded as he carefully grabbed the sleeping creature.

"Epel," Sil whispered, "hey, it's a nightmare, you're ok."

Epel flinched as he woke up, panting to himself. He looked up and cuddled against Sil, now sad.

"Oh dear, another nightmare?" questioned Rook.

"Interrupting my beauty sleep," groaned Vil, "..I wish i could be lazy as Leona. That lion didn't even woke up."

Sil sighed and got up. "I'll take him on a walk. It won't be a moment."

Sil got down and started to walk away, petting Epel.

"I'm sorry," muttered Epel, "I hate having these nightmares about them…"

"Oh, don't worry, I understand," Sil smiled, "I still have nightmares about the ocean at times as well. It's a normal thing, Epel. You don't need to be ashamed about then."

"…can you sing that lullaby again?'

"Of course," Sil grinned, letting Epel get on his shoulders.

🏝️

Sun goes down, and we are here together

Fireflies glow like a thousand charms

Stay with me, and you can dream forever

Right here in my arms

🏝️

"Where did you learn that song again?" Epel asked.

"I don't know," Sil shrugged, "I've always just known it…but I hear someone sing it in my dreams often. Maybe that's how."

🏝️

It's magic when you are here beside me

Close your eyes, and let me hold you tight

Everything that I could ever need is

Right here in my arms tonight

🏝️

"Sing me the other part too?" Epel asked sheepishly, "I like it.."

"Okay," Sil laughed, "but you know I don't remember all the words. But always for you."

🏝️

La la la

La la la

Stars begin to climb

La la la

La la la

La la la la la

La la la la la

🏝️

Sil grinned happily as he heard Epel snore on his head.

"Good night, Epel." Sil grinned and walked back to the three and rested Epel in his makeshift nest, petting him.

In the distance, Sil saw something big that swayed side and side on the waters. He just managed to make it, but he didn't know what the mysterious figure was. But he wanted to rest his head and close his eyes, dealing with it in the morning.

But that was a bad idea, as he witnessed a nightmare he had for years ever since his rescue. He found himself sinking in the waters below, finding it hard to breathe as he tried to surface every moment, a ship in the distance, a light being his only source to see. He also heard a voice, calling out to him, but it was muffled, unable for Sil to understand.

It caused him to wake as the daylight hit his face.

"Wha…"

"Another boat?" yawned Leona.

"What?" Sil questioned and got down to Leona to see. "A boat…I saw that last night. I couldn't recognize it, it was so far."

"I wonder why it's here." Vil scoffed.

"Maybe we should look?" Epel gasped, running towards the boat.

"Epel! Wait!" Sil gasped and ran after him.

🏝️

The boat was at the shore, with four people now leaving footprints on the sand. Each person was different and each had an odd reaction to being on the unknown island.

The first one was Prince Ruggie, who was unsurprised. He was a prince of a small island so being on one wasn't much of a surprise, so he knew how to navigate around the island and was marked as the guide in the expedition.

The second was Ruggie's betrothed fiance, Prince Riddle Rosehearts, who was the only one who was unfamiliar with the area. But he was convinced by his mother to go to bond with Ruggie as they were to marry by the end of the month. Riddle wanted to object but couldn't at the hands of his mother being his mother.

The third was Prince Malleus, a young prince who was known for wanting to adventure. It was uncommon when King Lilia, the fourth visitor, invited him. They were close when Malleus was a young dragon and they continue that bond. Malleus was the one who recommended traveling in the first place, as a bonding experience.

But he knew why he did it. King Lilia was the only adult on the expedition and tried to be chipper despite a tragedy in which date was nearby, and was trying to hide his uncomfortability with a smile every time he was asked if he was ok. Malleus knew this and made sure that Lilia was even ready for being on a boat. Lilia managed himself, which helped Malleus calm down.

So these four looked at the island in front and Malleus was the lead, with Lilia following.

🏝️

Nothing beats a brand-new shore

Streaming into view

After weeks of the waves

The thrill of somewhere new

All the riches of the world

Can't compare to these

Golden sand and silver clouds

The fragrant island breeze

🏝️

"And he;s off," Lilia laughed, "Ah, Malleus. Even now you wonder off."

"And I'm worried it was habit of his," Ruggie muttered to himself, watching Lilia following Malleus deep into the woods.

"Should we follow them?" Riddle pondered.

"Yeah, just in case he does get lost. I don't think he can survive this island," Ruggie laughed and walked forward.

🏝️

What will I discover next, it's all a mystery

Different every day

There's so much to do and learn and touch and hear and see

Just a step away

🏝️

Sil looked at them from within the bush, now curious. He walked closer to them to get a better look at the new people, but the animals did not have the same response, now annoyed, worried, and beyond afraid.

🏝️

It has no trunk

It has no tail

It's not a fish

It's not a whale

It has no feathers, I can see

I have to say, it looks like me!

It must be bad

It can't be good

Let's run and hide

I think we should

Just close your eyes, it goes away

This doesn't happen every day!

🏝️

Sil immediately went towards the strangers for a much closer look, even the trees didn't carry him carefully. But he managed to see who and remembered the features.

🏝️

Feeling the excitement grow

Every single stride

Sun above and earth below… whoa!

🏝️

Sil gasped as the humans fell down a massive ditch and he rushed down, knowing what awaiting them below.

At the bottom, Ruggie groaned, looking at the swamp-like area. "Well, I had worse pitfalls in my life. Being covered in dirt and almost in mud is not that bad."

Riddle quickly helped Ruggie up, "My bad, I wasn't looking where I was going,"

"Ah, happens to the best of us, I'm sure," Lilia chuckled, stretching his back, "That's part of the experience of traveling, I'd say."

Malleus looks around, now walking around.

"But I saw something in the trees," Riddle admitted, "like…a someone. Not an animal, per say, but…a person?"

"But this place has been abandoned for years," Malleus spoke up, "no humans have been on this island. If this place wasn't discovered, why is there a human here?"

"I know what I saw, Draconia," Riddle scoffed.

"Hmm, understandable, Riddle,"

A snarl was heard, which made Ruggie's ears twitch at the vibration. His eyes scanned the forest area, and three pairs of eyes glared at them from the darkness, more snarls were heard as their eyes went closer. Ruggie, now with everyone else, watched and backed up from the newly found crocodiles.

"Did we fall into a crocodile pit?" Lilia whispered.

"Oh, what rotten luck," Riddle groaned. "I knew exploring was a bad idea."

"You didn't protest when we entered the boat," Malleus mentioned, "and frankly no one could have planned this, island trips can be unpredictable. Knowing this mysterious island, this was bound to happen."

"I suppose you are right," Riddle took a breath, "sorry about that."

"No worries..but how do we get rid of the crocodiles?"

The one in the middle snapped his jaw, ready to eat the legs in front of them. The rest started snapping, trying to eat anything close to their mouths.

"Excuse me?" Called an unfamiliar voice.

The group watched as an unknown silver-haired boy swung forward onto a rock, looking down at the crocodiles, and crossed his arms.

"Gwendolyn," he lectured the crocodile by Riddle, "is this how we treat guests? Especially ones who entered your home?"

The crocodile, Gwendolyn, growled sadly in response.

"How is he…" Malleus gasped.

"Geo, don't," the stranger lectured again.

A snap made Lilia jump as the crocodile swam away upset.

Ruggie glared at the third one, but he was relentless until the stranger came by and petted the crocodile. This made the crocodile smile and groaned happily.

"Nice to know you still love pets, Georgio,"

Ruggie took a moment to actually look at the stranger. Silver hair that is rare and beautiful purple eyes that were soft towards the cranky crocodile, with a matching smile. He must've been here for years, Ruggie concluded, especially when he didn't have clothes. But it was still early to ask.

The group was stunned as the crocodile backed away and slid back into the murky waters. The stranger smiles and looks over at them, standing up,

"I apologize," he spoke, "they can be hungry when seeing something new. I suppose I did forget to get them some of the mangos I have found."

"No, no," Lilia stammered, "I apperiete that you have saved us from being eaten."

"I only did what I could. I understand how they can be odd to new friends, and don't know how to express themselves."

"That begs the question," Malleus questioned, "who are you?"

🏝️

"Sil? That's your name?" Ruggie asked, looking at the newfound chest they saw in the tree.

"I suppose so," Sil answered with a soft chuckle, "It was the only clue we have about who I am."

"So, you have no memory?" Riddle pondered, "How long have you been here?"

"I haven't been keeping check," Sil sighed, "but for a long time, I'm guessing. Just not knowing about who I am was never something I thought off, but now you guys are here."

"But I feel we are ignoring a big thing about you," Ruggie spoke up, "You…talked to the crocodiles, like it was nothing."

"And you guys don't?"

"I can," Ruggie noted, "cause I am part beast, it's natural, but a mere human like yourself couldn't."

"Hm, that is odd." Malleus hums, "Humans such as you could never have powers like that, unless it's been self-taught."

"Really? I simply woke up with this."

Everyone went silent for a moment, now confused about this mysterious man and his connection to this abandoned island. Lilia took a breath before walking over.

"Well, since you saved us, how about we get acquaintance with your friends?" Lilia asked.

"Yeah, but mind you, they haven't saw a human in years, or they have never seen a human before. So, I apologize if they are a bit defensive."

Sil smiled and walked down the trees to meet up with the group of animals that he called his friends.

"Are you ok?!" Vil immediately questioned, checking Sil for any wounds. "Ugh, you need to stop going off like that. My feathers can't handle all that stress, you know."

"I'm sorry, Vil, but I couldn't let the crocodiles eat them. As far as I'm concerned, they're innocent. And you know how the crocodiles get hungry when we miss their feeding schedules. So," Sil paused, "who forgot?"

"Wasn't it Leona's turn?" Epel pondered and looked at the yawning lion.

"Hmm, was it? I had no idea," Leona yawned, "I was simply taking a nap."

Sil sighed. "We really need to find a way to remind you, Leona."

The others watched in amazement.

"He's…he's having a actual conversation with them," Riddle gasped, "Like…talking to them."

"Yeah, he is," Malleus added, and smiled, "this is such a marvel."

"But what should we do with this?" Lilia asked, "I mean, he's a human who lives among animals, and I do worry for his develpment."

"What's your plan?" Malleus wondered.

"You know what," Ruggie sighed, "Should we take him with us?"

The red panda's ears sprouted up and he rushed over to Ruggie with his angry look, jumping up and down in protest.

"No! No! You can't take him with you, you mean humans!"

"Woah! Epel!" Sil gasped and grabbed him, "It's ok, they're not going to tale me away."

Ruggie's ears twitched, "Hmm, well, I guess that's options over."

"Well," Sil spoke, "I don't mind the suggestions, but I can't leave my friends here. They'll miss me."

"Oh, how true that is," Rook sighed, "We would miss him ever so dearly."

"Then we can take them with us," Lilia recommended, "I mean, the kingdom shouldn't mind it. Especially since I am part of the royal committee, I can convince them."

"Lilia," Malleus sighed, "you always use the committee to get your way."

"Your grandmother always helped me with those votes, and even your young mother, bless her heart." Lilia laughed, "And doesn't the Kingdom of the Sunset Savana have a beautiful scenery for him to stay in?"

"…Yeah, we do. And my grandma' loves new guests."

Sil looks at the animals, "Well, are you guys ok with this? It's a big ask."

"Well, I don't mind," Rook smiles, "I have been all around the world, and teaching you about the sights would be fantastic."

"Well, I'm not leaving you by yourselves!" Vil added, "You guys are reckless and someone as mature as me should come along, and of course, Leona, you have to come too."

"Ugh," groaned Leona, "fine. But I am not doing anything."

"Since when do you do?" Epel muttered before looking up at Sil, "I wanna come too! To protect you, Sil!"

Sil smiles and pets his head, "Thank you, Epel."

"Well, what do you say? Want to come with us?" Lilia offered.

Sil looked back at the ship and nodded. "Yeah, I'm ready."