#they gotta have converse in the customization somewhere

[alof3of9]

My world tour terry. I dont have the shoes or the hat, but i do have the slut socks slut shirt and slut skirt. I will get my shoes and hat someday

[soft-girl-musings]

Stranger Danger

Steven Grant x Fem!Reader

cross-posted to ao3

MK Spring Bingo entry #5

tags: reader is being stalked & responds in a way the author (a woman) has been taught to, emotional protector steven grant to the rescue, no use of y/n

wc: 1,138

fic summary: There's safety in numbers, do you want mine? (too soon?)

_____________________

“Oops, careful!”

Steven drops the last of his veggie wrap as a pair of kids rush past the bench he’d been hunched over. As he picks up the debris, he sees where one of them dropped their hat. He picks it up and half-jogs after them to return it.

“Gotta stay aware of our surroundings, yeah? Don’t want to lose our valuables.” The kid rolls their eyes but thanks him before running off to catch up with their friend.

“Oh my gosh, hi!”

Steven turns around to find you walking swiftly toward him, your smile too wide and tone too familiar.

He’s never seen you before.

“... hello,” he answers cautiously, taking one step back but failing to put much distance between the two of you. You practically cling to his side when you approach, takeaway cup and phone in hand.

“Sorry I’m late, but you are terrible at giving directions, mister.” Taking his arm, you begin to walk away from where you’d appeared.

This wouldn’t be the first time he’s forgotten conversations or plans. But as he racks his brain for something, anything tied to you in his memory, Steven notices the panic in your eyes and the slight waver in your voice.

Your hands shake a bit as you unlock your phone, passing your cup to him. He takes it, still bewildered but obedient. “I swear, the cafe never spells your name right. Let me make a note for next time.” You type swiftly, showing him the screen.

being followed, please pretend you're my boyfriend

Steven doesn’t know you.

But he nods, grasping your arm closer with his free hand and gives his most convincing grin. “Steven with a ‘V’, love.”

Relief instantly washes over your features and you relax a little. “Right. I’ll remember that… Steven.”

His smile grows before he remembers why you're holding onto him. “Do you want to sit down? Or go somewhere else, maybe I could call someone–”

“N-no, it’s fine. Let’s just sit. In plain sight,” you half-whisper. Steven nods, ushering you back to the bench in the middle of the busy square. When you sit, you don't let go of his arm.

Instead, you type into your phone as you speak. “Lovely weather we’re having, isn’t it?” Steven glaces at your notes app again.

do you see a man in a black jacket?

Steven scans the area, careful not to look too suspicious. Unlike the person he’s sure you’re referring to: a man in dark clothes, hands shoved into his pockets and rigid as he looks around with increasing urgency. His prominent frown grows when he sees Steven next to you.

“Yeah,” Steven says to both your questions. He looks away from the menacing figure, but sets your drink down and wraps his arm around you. He's glad to feel you settle into his side, still shaking but catching your breath.

“I take it you don’t know Mr. Black Jacket?”

“No, I do. Sort of. He’s a regular customer of mine,” you sigh. “One who doesn’t know how to take ‘no’ for an answer.”

“Ah.” Steven keeps the guy in his periphery, splitting his focus between him and you. “Stalker, then?”

You freeze up at the term. “Yeah… he’s been pretty relentless.” 

You meet his eyes, which are swiftly filling with concern. “Thanks again for… this. I usually find a mom or another woman to walk with me until he leaves, but I saw you with those kids and just… panicked, I guess.”

“S’not a problem, love.” Steven knocks your foot with his, drawing a small smile from you. “Glad to help you feel safe.”

You laugh a little. You let your gaze drift over to the man in black, an uneasy pit growing in your stomach when you briefly make eye contact.

“He usually goes away after a while. I've told the police, but they can't do anything unless he… you know.” Your brow furrows as your grip loosens. “I don't mean to take over your afternoon, but would you mind waiting with me?”

In that moment, you could have asked Steven for the moon and he'd find a way to lasso it down for you. 

He squeezes your hand. “‘Course I can. Lovely day with lovely company, quite the ideal afternoon in my books.” 

Steven dives right into talking about anything and everything that comes to mind– which, as you learn, is a lot. Normally he'd hit a wall after a few minutes, either because he'd realized he had talked himself in circles, or his less-than-captive audience was visibly zoned out. But you hang on his every word, grateful to be arm in arm with a stranger describing the supposed viscosity of ancient Egyptian embalming oil. It's a welcome distraction. 

So distracting, in fact, that after an hour you realize the crowd has thinned around you. With Mr. Black Jacket nowhere in sight.

“I think he's gone,” you sigh with relief. Steven stands when you do, handing your things back.

“Patience won out in the end,” he beams. You see a brief look of panic cross his features.

“He doesn't know where you live, does he? Do you need an escort?” Steven's already taken a ludicrously long lunch break, but the inevitable lecture from Donna would be worth it if it meant ensuring your safety.

You shake your head. “I've been careful.” Extending your hand, you smile. “It was nice to meet you, Steven with a ‘V’.”

“Likewise, love.” He shakes your hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. Another look crosses his face before he continues.

“Do you want my mobile number?” His words come out too fast; if you hadn't spent the past hour listening to him, you might have missed what he said. “Just in case you need someone to wait with you again, or keep an eye out. Would that be alright?” He shakes his head, stepping back. “'Matter of fact, forget I said anything, don't want you to think you've traded one creep for another–”

“Sure.”

Your simple answer stops him in his tracks. “Oh, you don’t have to–”

“No, it’s fine. Really. When you offered, it felt nice to know someone could be in my corner on this side of town.”

You take out a scrap of paper and a pen from your bag. “How about this: you write it down, and I’ll add your contact if I ever need my knight in shining armor again.”

Steven concedes, pen and paper in hand as he scribbles his number down (then asks for a new paper in case the first was too illegible).

When you leave, he watches until you turn the corner. He goes the opposite direction, back to the museum. Part of him hopes you’ll never have to reach out, for your own sake. The rest of him hopes you do anyway.

_____________________

A/N: oh steven, the man that you are. a couple more bingo prompts will be focused on this dude, which is excellent practice for some exciting projects down the line...

as always, ty for reading <3

event tags: @moonknight-events @spacecowboyhotch @juneknight

addtl tags: @mrs-lockley @lunar-ghoulie @shadystarlightgentlemen @casa-boiardi @nerdieforpedro (lmk if you'd like to be added to/removed from this wee tag list)

[megantheestallion-ismypresident]

Being in a relationship with Francis Mosses 🥛

Francis mosses x black! Reader

●Sfw:

● Francis is a very quiet man he's usually very tired and doesn't really like his job being a milkman. He never really had too many thoughts on love or being in a relationship, but he was very surprised he ended up being with you.

● Francis first saw you when you were moving into the apartment and lived on the same floor as him, he usually doesn't really care for people moving in into the building, but something about you made him feel something he hasn't in a very long time.

● He would deliver milk to you very early just to see your beautiful face. Whenever he would look at you, he would get butterflies. You were such a nice welcoming lady.

● He usually isn't talkative with his customers when he's delivering milk, this man hates his job so much to even interact with anyone, but when it comes to you he would start a little small talk here and there.

● When you first came here, you were very aware of doppelganger roaming somewhere around the building. You didn't really make any friends with anyone in the building until you met francis, he would always deliver your milk on time, you felt bad for the man he barely got any sleep, but you couldn't help how handsome he looks even though he looks depressed.

● He made little chit-chat with you from time to time, but you wanted more than that. You'd always distract him so you could talk to him, but he was always busy, but you finally got the courage to ask him to go out for some coffee.

●You were sitting all alone in your apartment, bored, put off your mind, waiting for the cookies in the oven to get ready. You didn't really make friends in the building. You haven't been in a relationship so long ever since you moved here.

●But you couldn't help but think of francis, he was such a nice man, you couldn't help but have feelings for the handsome milkman, you really wanted to ask him out , but he never really got the hint, you'd try to keep the conversations longer, but he's always so busy. You huffed in silence, hearing the clock ticking to past time.

● You heard a knock on the door, which changed your mood as you got up. "MILK DELIVERY!" francis said from the other side of the door, making your bored expression turned to happy one as you dusted yourself off, fixing your hair as you walked towards the door. "Coming!" Y/n said as she made the way towards the door as you unlocked it seeing francis in usual tired state, crisp white uniform, and his hat.

● "I'm sorry for the delay, y/n work has been a bit hectic lately, I've been so busy all day giving milk to other cust-" Francis said in his smooth, deep, rich voice making you melt, as you cut him off.

●"Oh, it's quite alright, francis. Don't push yourself too hard." Y/n smiled at him as he gave you a little smile as he hands you the crate of milk.

●"Yeah, I guess you're right. I haven't been getting enough sleep lately, I've been taking a lot of shifts lately, and I've been covering for a lot of people at work." Francis said as he yawned tiredly as he blinked at you slowly.

●"Well, I gotta get back to work. I'll see you later." Francis said as he was about to walk away. "Wait! Francis." Y/n shouted as francis stopped in his tracks, turning to you confusingly, which he looked so adorable.

●" I was maybe hoping that you and I could grab some coffee some time." Y/n said, waiting for his response.

●"Yeah, sure." He smiled at you as he turned away as he walked away. You closed the door and started jumping in victory that he said yes.

● You and francis started getting very close with each other ever since the coffee date, and ended up being an official couple, everyone in the building knew about your relationship with Francis, you didn't care you really liked him.

● Surprisingly, francis is good at cooking and baking. He usually always helps you around the kitchen. He cooks for you all the time. When you come back from work, he's such a gentleman.

● Francis isn't really the talkative type to anyone. He doesn't really trust anyone, but with you, he feels safe telling you things, You hear him rant about hating being a milkman and how tired he's getting of it.

● This man is very affectionate he would hug you, kiss you mostly your lips, and would bring you flowers every single day.

● When francis comes back from work, you will take care of him. He usually tells you not to worry, but you end up taking care of him, Francis never really had someone take care of him he was always looking out for himself and always did stuff alone.

● He falls asleep a lot. This man is very sleep deprived. He's the type to fall asleep while watching a movie. You try to wake him, but he's a very deep sleeper, He needs 2- 8 hours of sleep.

● Francis never had time to be in a relationship, mostly because he believed love was dead since his last relationship didn't go too well.

● When he started dating you, he finally felt what being accepted is like, and he's very great full that you're in his life.

● Since you're in his life, he seems happier and gets his life to turn around.

● He loves to listen to you. It may seem like he's not listening, but he is. He likes listening to you when he's bored. He's very amuse when you're talking and listening to you, yap.

● He had very beautiful slender hands, and you would kiss it. You'd often kiss his hands or cheek to show him that you love him. Francis loves you dearly and wanted to marry you someday.

●NSFW:

● This man is a whimper and a whiner, when your having sex with him, he's very vocal about it, full-on groaning, grunting, when you're sucking him off.

● Gentle Dom and Sub

● he loves marking you, not like an owing type he respects you as an individual, and he loves how.

● He loves your lips. He loves it when your lips are coated with his cum when you suck him off.

● Very big on praising, you get off when he praises you, he treats you like a goddess, he's always telling her good you're doing and how you make him feel, etc.

● He loves massaging your nipples. Even when you're not having sex at all, he'll still play with your boobs from time to time, but during sex he's mostly sucking and nibbling.

● This man is very skilled with his mouth. When he eats you out(holy fuck) he can eat you for hours, like he devours that shit and always make you cum every single time, he mutters dirty praises throught it and would hum and kiss it and let's out a deep moan.

● Surprisingly, this man has a very high sex drive and can be able to keep up, he's really down to whatever.

● His favorite positions will be very simple and not too hard-core. He mostly likes missonary, doggystyle, cowgirl, he loves it when you ride him, etc, etc,

● He loves to intertwine his hands together during sex just so you're comfortable.

● most definitely has a mommy kink.

● He isn't big on public sex he likes having sex with you, an area that's private in his apartment like the couch or bed.

● kitchen sex 😋

● When sex is over, he's very tired and can usually last like 2 rounds. He's very affectionate he would cuddle with you, telling him he loves you, and you're so perfect you are. He would get you some water or food.

● He doesn't particularly jack off, I mean, why do that when he has you.

[wildemaven]

he makes life better | joel miller

-> pairing: no outbreak!joel miller x reader

-> word count: 1335

-> content warning: 18+ blog; bad day, annoyed with work, dealing with flat tire, joel being sweet, lots of fluff

-> note: this is for my sweet friend @gnpwdrnwhiskey hoping this brings a smile to her face 💞 this isn’t beta’d either so it’s probably filled with mistakes lol.

masterlist

Joel ❤️: How’s your day going Honey?

I’m so ready for my shift to be over. I’d rather read the dictionary, front to back, than deal with the shit they have me doing today. 

RING

“That bad, huh?” Joel’s voice brings you an instant smile when you answer his call, silently stepping away from the mess that you were dealing with at work. 

“You have no idea. It already feels like it’s been the longest week, today has just added to the shit show life keeps throwin’ at me lately. Went to leave for work this morning and I had a flat tire. Ugh! I’m sorry for complaining.” You vent to him, tucking yourself in a secluded corner. You were going against policy by taking a personal call while on the clock, but you didn’t care about company policy or the outcome of you were to get caught at the moment— Joel was your only focus right now. 

“Hey, none of that. Don’t apologize for being stressed. Why didn’t ya call me ‘bout your tire?” Joel asked. 

You know he would’ve dropped everything the minute did call him, which is also why you didn’t. He had been stressing over starting at a new job site, one of the biggest ones he had been hired for. The last thing you wanted was to add to his already busy day of things he had to deal with. 

“You’d already left for work and had that new job you’ve been talkin’ about. Didn’t wanna bother you with it. I called AAA and had them put the spare on for me so I could drop it off at the tire shop. Now, I’m unexpectedly the owner of 4 new tires.” 

“I don’t care how busy I am— you need something, you call me, no matter what. Got that, Honey?” 

“Got it, Joel. Thank you.” You smile into the phone at his concern for you, always finding ways to make you fall even deeper in love with him. 

“Good. Hey, I gotta go. Tommy looks like he’s about ready to break his back. I should probably go help him before he actually does and my insurance takes a hit. I’ll see ya tonight then, sweetheart?” 

“Yeah. I should be outta here in 3 hours.” The end to your long shift, almost over. 

“That sounds great! I love you, Honey. I’ll see ya later.” You can faintly hear Tommy cursing in the background. 

“Love you too, Joel.” You tell him before the line goes dead. Giving yourself a few minutes of quiet before heading back to join your team and the never ending line of customers. 

The rest of your shift goes by fairly quickly. Joel’s phone call must have been just the moral boost you needed to sprinkle a little bit of extra positivity into your day.

The minute the clock hit 5 pm, you wasted no time clocking out and logging out of your computer for the day. Deliberately bypassing your usual exit path to avoid any chatty coworkers, Joel and home your main focus of the rest of your day, you weren’t going to waste any time stuck in drawn out conversations. 

Your purse thrown over your shoulder, work apron crumpled in one hand and the other holding your empty tumbler that once held the warm delicious coffee you had hoped would sustain you through the day, now wishing it was filled with something a little stronger to help you unwind when you got home. 

It’s a struggle trying to juggle your things as you search for your keys, lost somewhere in the depths of your purse along with the rest of your life's necessities. You pause in the middle of an empty parking space near where your jeep is parked to give the search your full attention. After some thorough digging, you locate your keys and let out an exasperated sigh, one step closer to being home. 

Taking a step forward as you press the unlock button on your key, you look up to see an unexpected sight. A familiar truck in the parking spot next to yours, and the most handsome man leaning on it. He looks like he came straight from the job sight, too. His peppered grey hair disheveled, but his soft curls were still intact even after a long day. The sleeves of your favorite green flannel are rolled up over his flexed forearms that are crossed against his chest, the fabric stretched over his broad shoulders. 

The sight of him is enough to melt away any of the bullshit you had endured over the past week, a completely welcomed surprise. 

“What are you doing here?” You ask him, letting your feet carry you the rest of the way to him. 

“Heard you were havin’ a shitty day. Couldn’t let my lady end it on a bad note.” He croons, pushing himself off the side of his truck, opening his arms to you. 

You melt into him, your face nestled into his shoulder. His rugged scent of musky vanilla and natural pheromones is permanently infused into the fibers of his shirt, it’s your favorite thing ever. His strong arms wrap around you as he presses a soft kiss to your temple, prompting you to straighten up, looking into his amber eyes. 

“Hi, Cowboy.” You beam at him. 

“Hi.” He says, leaning in to gently mold his lips over yours. “I’ve got a surprise for ya, Honey.” 

“This was enough of a surprise for me. What more could I need?” Stealing another kiss from him. 

“If I tell ya, it won’t be a surprise then, will it?” He says, tilting his head slightly as he looks at you. 

“I guess you have a point.” 

“We’ve gotta get going though, it’s time sensitive.” He grabs for your things and walks you around to the passenger door, holding it open as you climb in. “We’ll grab your jeep in the mornin’, if that’s okay with you?” 

“Whatever you say, Cowboy.” He leans back in for another kiss, before making his way around into the driver’s seat. 

*

The drive isn’t long. Down some familiar roads that lead to a dirt one off the main highway. His truck travels down the gravel road lined with a barbed wire fence. After a few minutes he’s pulling off to the side and killing the engine. 

“You brought me to my favorite place.” Looking over to his side of the truck, where he’s already looking in your direction. Your heart grows at how he thought to bring you here, knowing how much joy it brings you every time. 

“Thought you could use it. Look, here they come.” He says pointing to your window. 

Off in the distance, the small herd of cows were in pursuit of their evening meal and water break. Mamas with their little rambunctious calves trailing behind, trekking along the same path they travel each evening. 

It’s a calming sight. Their heads bobbling with each dramatic step. Tails whipping over their rear ends to swat away the annoying flies. A few stopping mid trek to look in your direction, letting out a long drawn out moo. Their friendly hello, it’s good to see you again, then back on the move. 

The sky is painted in pinks and purples as the sun dips below the horizon. Your day feeling less shitty as you sit silently in the cab of Joel’s truck. His hand resting on your thigh while his thumb draws soft circles over thick denim seam. 

“Thank you for this. Didn’t realize how much I needed it. I love you, Joel.” You tell him, rolling your head over the headrest in his direction. 

“I did it because I love you, Honey. And s’what I’m here for.” There’s a low rumble in the air as he turns the key over, shifting the truck into drive. “Now, how ‘bouts we head on home and I spend the rest of the evenin’ show you all the other ways I love you?”

“Take me home, Cowboy.” 

[cosmicstarlatte]

Coffee Shop (Obey Me!)

━━━━━━━━━━ ✦ ━━━━━━━━━━

You start a new job at a coffee shop in a popular plaza. You can't help but look forward to a certain regular. ♡

»Characters: Demon Bros + Dia + Barb

»Tags: Fluff, Bulleted Style, GN Reader, LeviLeviLevi-

»Notes: lol when was the last time I made a bulleted fic that wasn't a shitpost???🤯 Just simple short fluff lol, reblogs are appreciated + motivating ♡

Lucifer:

Always orders a cafe con leche every morning

Keeps interactions short but you learned his name

Always so serious but he does look like a business man

A very very handsome business man cough

After working there for a little bit he admits he likes the way you make his drink & hates when you guys miss each other on days off

One day he comes in normal clothes & you got caught off guard when he made it to the register

"It's my day off but I was craving my usual. I'm glad to see you're here."

Pleaseee you gotta be blushing right now alalfkfldk

You notice the record store bag he's holding & start a fun conversation while its slow

It does get busier & unfortunately have to cut the conversation to both your disappointments

"We can continue this later...maybe over dinner if you're available?"

Mammon:

Usually gets an icy blended drink, the flavor changes frequently

You see him every other day, it looks like he works at a retail store in the plaza

You thought he was cute & funny despite how loud he could be

One day he defends you against a really rude customer

You say your thank yous & give him his drink for free that day

"Yeah I guess I am a hero. Heroes get free drinks all the time though, ya?"

You couldn't help but laugh & accidentally let slip "you're really cute!"

He starts choking on his drink, stuttering & blushing

He goes silent for a moment before asking, "whaddaya say to a date one of these days?"

Levi:

Usually orders sweet drinks & likes trying seasonal/limited time things

You've seen him at his job at the anime store in the plaza, since you visit there sometimes

You two are on friendly terms even though he can be awkward

You think he's very cute though, especially when he talks about his passions

You felt like you two were dancing around eachother so you decide to make a move

You drew a Gundam robot on his drink & wrote 'Gun-DAM you're cute!'

You nervously handed the drink & he took it without noticing the drawing on it

You watched as he left the shop,took another sip, then stop as he looked at his drink

You could see he was happily freaking out but then abruptly stop

He looked back to the shop & you waved a shy hello

He ran back inside to make sure, "S-sorry is this a mistake? W-was this for someone else??"

"Look on the bottom"

He raised the cup & looked under

Levi, AkuCon this weekend?

Satan:

Usually orders a simple cappuccino but will add a flavored syrup occasionally

Comes in often on his breaks

You've seen him working at the bookstore in the plaza

He looks like a simple guy yet very charming

You always notice a book on him & one day you decide to ask what he's reading

You learn you read the same things & start having fun conversations every time he stops by

Eventually he asks you if you'd be able to give your thoughts on his writing

"Sure, I'd be happy to read it if you bring it!"

He gave you a flirty smile

"Actually I was thinking maybe we could hang out...like somewhere that's not here?"

Asmo:

Always orders an iced vanilla oat milk latte

You see him every few days, really friendly customer that loves to chat & you become friends quick even though you want more

You find out he works at a nearby agency & is an up & coming model

You felt a little intimidated, he could be really famous one day!

Nevertheless you treat him just the same even as those around him changed, he lets you know how grateful he is

One day he comes in upset & tells you the agency is moving across town to a bigger location so he won't be able to see you there anymore

At the same time both of you blurt out

"I still wanna see you!"

Beel:

You never know with this guy

He works in the sports store across from the cafe

He's always indecisive with the menu & one day just tells you to make whatever

You're his fave barista, he thinks you make the best drinks either way

Doesn't realize he just likes everything & has a crush on you

You can't help but get excited when he looks excited to see you golden retriever energy

You find out he's a foodie type & you guys talk about the local spots around town

"Would you like to check out the new sandwich store that opened a few doors down? Uh...like, maybe a date?"

Belphie:

Usually orders a hot regular latte but occasionally orders hot chocolate

He appears to be a student as he comes in often to study & always looks tired

One day on your break you decide to chat him up & offer help on the subject he was struggling with

He thought you were cute & was thankful for your help

After a few weeks of tutoring (+some heavy flirting), he passed his exam flawlessly

"Actually can you help me with one other thing?"

"Yeah, what?"

"Would you like to go on a date sometime?"

Diavolo:

Has a new favorite every week but really likes lattes/teas

You can tell he's important with his assistant present

You wonder why the assistant doesnt just get his order though

Anyway hes hot really friendly & chatty & can tell a few good jokes, you appreciate them!

He always seems reluctant to leave the shop which makes your heart flip

Always leaves a big tip! ... I want him to give me a big tip 😔

The two of you find out you have a lot more in common than you thought

One day he admits that these coffee runs are the things he looks forward to the most since his day is usually very busy & doesn't get much else normalcy

He lets slip that it's mainly seeing you that adds to his joy so he goes all in

"If you're interested, care to join me for dinner this weekend?"

Barbatos:

Always large orders of a few different drinks (part of his job)

Though you notice he always orders tea for himself & likes to buy different tea blends

He's a very (cute) polite customer, one of the few

You two usually chat as you make his large order & you can't help but fall for him

Knowing he loves to buy limited release tea blends, you usually save him one before the cafe sells out

You never tell anyone about it but:

"I appreciate you always saving me one."

"Oh? How did you know!?"

"I have a friend who stopped by earlier & said it was one of those times they missed out. Yet, there always appears to be one for me even after sell-out. Thank you kindly."

You blush at being found out, "seems I've been caught!"

He chuckles & gives you another shock:

"I've been meaning to ask...will you allow me to take you out one of these days?"

⬦You might also like: Customer Service︱Devil-Mart ⭐️︱You Are The Father︱MC feeling Insecure

[kairiscorner]

˗ˏˋ ✮ kairi's AUtober !

double feature 1: the arcade nerd, miles g. morales.

it all started with the sound of caramelldansen.

you grumbled as you headed to the very back of the arcade, the most obscure, hardly visited section; where the more retro games were kept and where many machines were not longer functional, because apparently, some hooligan was still playing on the DDR machine in the very back. you figured you weren't being paid enough to shoo these guys out, especially not when you were an intern that only worked here over the weekends for some extra allowance. "look, buddy, we're five minutes away from closing up, you might wanna get out of here before the manager comes in and shoos you out himself." you called out to the pesky customer still dancing about and hitting the arrow notes all precisely.

you watched as the tall, dark boy before you in braids was shuffling about, not responding to your call and focusing on hitting every note precisely and on time. you had to admit, in the three months that you've worked for this crappy, dingy establishment, only now have you witnessed an actual professional at work, and you wouldn't really feel happy with yourself if you interrupted his streak, but you also wouldn't feel happy at your manager getting pissed off at you for not getting the remaining customer out of here before closing time. you sighed and walked up closer to him as he was dancing the verse before the chorus out with everything he had. "hey man, you gotta go." "i got stuck in this part last time, like hell i'm leaving now." he told you in a low voice as he began to move his feet at a faster pace, with your eyes being unable to keep up with how fast the notes on the screen were moving and instead shifted your gaze down to his feet that shuffled here and there, hitting every note precisely and on time, not losing focus even as he broke into a sweat as he tried his hardest to hit every note, to finally finish this song.

when the song ended, he was heaving and sweaty—you asked him if he was okay, but it was only when his score was calculated and his rank as the number one DDR player on the screen was shown, he finally responded with a wide smile and a contagious chuckle. "yes! yes i'm okay, i'm... ecstatic right now!" he exclaimed all gleefully as he turned to look at you suddenly, his nose brushing over yours by accident out of his haste. "o-oh... sorry, sorry i didn't, um... i didn't realize you were this close." he apologized to you with a faltering voice, looking away from you in embarrassment as you quickly told him with the same flustered tone that 'it was okay'. "you can really kick ass at this game, huh?" "i guess so, my uncle took me to this section of the arcade ever since i was young, so... it just grew on me, ever since. i'm... miles, by the way." he introduced himself to you and awkwardly had his hand out for you, looking up into your eyes and back down to his hand in embarrassment.

when you shook his hand and introduced to him your own name, miles felt like he knew you from somewhere. "say... you look familiar, are you from visions? brooklyn visions academy?" "i... how did you...?" "y-your eyes, they, uh... n-nevermind, way to sound lame, miles..." he muttered to himself as he tried to think of another way to start this conversation over without the awkward bits in it. but before he could open his mouth, you took his hand in yours and looked into his eyes. "we could, um, go to the diner across the street and talk some more. i-it's closing time right now, so... we've gotta—" "o-oh, right, right... get going, yeah. sorry to... waste your time." "no!" you exclaimed looking at him with widened eyes, making his own chocolate colored ones widen like a deer in headlights. "no, you didn't waste my time. in fact, you intrigue me, miles." you told him with a smile, making him a little shy at your words. "a-and so do you." he whispered to you with a little grin, making you smile even wider as you clocked out of work and exited the arcade with him.

maybe working at that old arcade has its perks, such as the cutest boy you've ever met coming here more often just to... "beat his record at DDR" (that's code for sneaking you out of your shift to get some pizza with him). maybe it wasn't a mistake to take up the internship here, and maybe it wasn't a mistake to have watched him—in all his nerdy glory—perfect combo caramelldansen on that old DDR machine in the back; and maybe it wouldn't be a bad idea to ask him out after school sometime for some coffee, maybe, right?

tags !! @ii01vq @luvstarrstruck @maxoloqy @k4tsu3 @solecitoszn @toneystank-3000 @popeheywardssecretgf @lovefrominaya @onginlove @meowmoraless @ravisinghs-wife @jrrantss @conitagray @euphovlq

[captn-trex]

technical devotion, part eight: playing the part

content warnings: minor description of panic around crowds

last chapter | next chapter | master list | join the taglist

“What the-”

Kan jumped as she reached the bottom of the stairs and looked at the droid that was sat lazily at the kitchen table. She then realised it was not a droid at all.

“Echo, you scared me” She laughed slightly, and Echo flipped up the mask of his disguise.

“Pretty convincing right?”

“Yeah, maybe if you weren't sat like a man” She smirked at his distinctly human posture and he chuckled. “I've gotta say, when you said you had a disguise this is not what I was expecting”

“Well maybe that bodes well for my disguise then” He smirked a little, “Are you ready to go?”

“Yep” Kan smiled, grabbing her bag, “Let's get going”

Kan and Echo ventured into town, having heard there was a market in the square today. They were yet to really meet anyone here, and Echo had decided it was easier for him to walk around as a ‘droid’, going unnoticed, instead of trying to explain to people why he was more machine than man, as he often put it.

The square was bursting with life. It was wonderfully decorated with banners and plants, and the large fountain in the middle served as a place of rest for parents and a play area for their kids. There were vendors selling an assortment of things, from food to spare parts and clothes, and it was positively a melting pot of people from all over the galaxy. There was not one presiding race, and Kan was thankful, her olive green Mirialan skin not making her stand out for once.

Despite the cheerful cast of characters in the square, it was lined by men in white plastoid armour, the only ones who managed to stand out in this environment. Stormtroopers.

“You should get talking to some people” Echo said quietly, his voice modulated by his mask. Kan almost didn't realise it was him talking to her.

“Yeah alright, give me a minute” Kan looked around, a little overwhelmed by the sheer amount of things going on. She figured she'd start at a food vendor, somewhere they could actually do with visiting.

“Hello there ma'am, how are you today?” The Weequay vendor smiled warmly.

“I'm well, how are you?” Kan replied.

Echo couldn't refrain from rolling his eyes as Kan got into a conversation with the vendor that could not be described as short. She asked about her life, how she had ended up on this planet and about her family. Though it was sweet how much she truly cared about other people and wanted to connect with them, this really wasn't the time for it.

As they walked away from the stand with a paper bag full of vegetables, Kan got distracted by another stand selling food, and Echo grabbed her arm subtlely to stop her.

“We’re not just here to chat and buy food, start talking to some of the locals” He said quietly.

Kan huffed, “Alright, fine”

“I'm gonna take a walk around, see what I can hear” Echo said, walking off to her right before she got the chance to reply.

Kan looked around the square, and decided to just take the plunge. She approached a friendly looking Zabrak woman who was sat by herself at the fountain, smiling at the children playing in the water.

“Excuse me, I'm sorry to disturb you” Kan began, and the woman looked to her with an openness that made her continue, “I'm new to town, could you possibly tell me a little bit about what goes on around here?”

“Of course” She smiled, and patted the place next to her.

Kan took the seat, and they fell into conversation about the customs of the town, market on every second and fourth day of the week, and a communal celebration every few weeks on the fifth day, which included mostly food stands and dancing, among other festivities. The Zabrak, who had since introduced herself as Rhidi, told her about the mayor, pointing them out amongst the crowd of small children that they were playing with.

“It's lovely here, the community seems to be really thriving” Kan said, looking back to Rhidi to see her hesitancy before speaking.

“It is, I must admit it has been different lately” She said, a twinge of indignance in her tone.

“How so?” Kan asked, feigning innocence.

“There's just… a lot more of an imperial presence here nowadays” She began, trying to gauge Kan's opinion on the matter, “Which is fine! of course, it's just… different”

“Oh right…” Kan said, looking around at the stormtroopers patrolling the square, “When did they get here?”

“Around two standard months ago, there was suddenly double the troops, then triple, it happened so quickly” Rhidi said, keeping her voice hushed.

“Something important must be going on then” Kan prompted her.

“They've set up some kind of base for experimentation, technological I think, but that's all I know about it” She said, then sat up straighter, “But anyway, that's pretty much there is to know around here”

Kan understood and followed suit, “Thank you so much Rhidi, it was a pleasure to meet you”

“And you…”

“Oh! I'm uh- Ech-a” Kan immediately cursed her stupid mouth for speaking before she could think properly about what she was saying. “Short for Gekavi” She tried to salvage her blunder with the reasonably common Mirialan name.

“Well, I hope to see around again Eka” Rhidi said with a smile, standing up and brushing off her skirt as Kan cringed at the use of the name.

“Me too” She managed to smile before Rhidi walked away.

Kan stood and looked around the square for someone who seemed like they might know something more about the imperial presence here. That's when she noticed a man in an imperial officer's clothing watching her, a subtle smirk on his lips. She tore her eyes away and made her way around the outside of the square, and then back towards the man, bumping into him with her shoulder a little too harshly.

“Oh! I'm so sorry, forgive me” She looked up at him with widened eyes and all the innocence she could.

“It's no worry miss” He smiled at her warmly, readjusting his uniform, “You're new around here aren't you?”

“Oh dear, is it that obvious?” She said, her hand on her cheek out of fake embarrassment.

The officer chuckled, “I just don't remember seeing you before”

“Ah well, I've just moved in. I'm Gekavi” She doubled down on the name while holding out her hand and he took it in a soft grasp.

“Captain Levy” He gave his own name. He was truthfully quite a handsome man, dark curly hair that fell over his forehead neatly, dark blue eyes, and a pleasant smile.

“Captain huh? That's impressive” Kan smiled up at him disarmingly.

“Should be Commander soon” The Captain smirked at her a little, and Kan could tell he was all too happy to show off to her. This is too easy.

“Woah, how come?” She asked innocently, a small smile quirking the corner of her mouth.

“Cant tell you that I’m afraid Miss, top secret” He said with a little wink.

“Aw, that’s too bad”

Echo looked around the square from the corner, trying to keep his appearance distinctly droid-like. He finally found Kan, but his breath caught as he saw her fluttering her eyelashes up at a man - an Imperial officer - and touching his arm gently. He couldn't help the feeling of jealousy and borderline anger that bubbled up in his gut, and he made his way towards them slowly.

Kan caught the sight of Echo over Captain Levy's shoulder and felt the need to wrap up the conversation.

“Well I should be getting home, it was nice to meet you Captain, almost Commander” She smirked up at him.

“It’s Drass, but it was nice to meet you too Gekavi” He replied with a charming smile, and Kan waved goodbye before she heard him calling out to her again, “Will you be attending the festivities tomorrow?”

“I'm not sure, I still have a lot of settling in to be doing” She replied a little nervously to invite him to try and convince her.

“Well, I hope to see you there nonetheless” He smiled.

She batted her eyelashes at him for a moment, chewing on her lip, “I'll think about it”. She smiled at him and then left, noting him watching her walk away. Echo came to walk beside her as she rounded the corner to their dwelling, and she jumped a little at his sudden presence.

“That was great” She grinned at him, and his heart sunk just a little.

“It was?” He looked at her, jaw grinding when she nodded, “We're not here to just flirt with Imperials you know”

“I wasn't really flirting” Kan screwed up her face at the accusation, placing down the grocery bag on the kitchen table, “But that man is one compliment away from spilling everything. I think we should go to these ‘festivities’ tomorrow”

“So you can flirt with this man some more?” Echo asked, and Kan looked at him with disbelief and apprehension to his strange line of questioning.

“Fake flirting, there's nothing attractive about being with the empire” She pointed out, “I think he's a good first try in any case, and if we go to this thing tomorrow we might find other opportunities”

Echo conceded with a grunt, “Okay, if you say so”

Kan frowned as Echo walked into his room and shut the door. She was getting a little tired of the way he would suddenly act different around her, and she couldn't help but feel that she had done something wrong, once again. She didn't like the way his mood affected her own thoughts, and didn’t understand why she would let it happen. Had it not been the right thing to do to get the attention of an Imperial Captain? Or soon to be Commander, if he was to be believed - that seemed like a good connection to have made.

“Echo, are you coming this thing tonight?” Kan asked from outside his bedroom door.

Echo had taken to staying in his room any time that he wasn't eating or out walking around town and listening in on conversations. That was the way he had found out where their main base of operations was earlier on in the day.

He opened the door, the crease in his brow softening as he looked down at Kan. She wore a short white sleeveless dress, a red waistcoat with the top button done up, and a pair of brown leather boots. Her collarbones were adorned by a small golden necklace, and her hair tied into two pigtails with white ribbons. She looked positively breath taking, and Echo's breath had certainly been taken.

“Uh- I, um- I might stay here” He stuttered out, rubbing his neck as he looked away from her.

“Oh, okay” She said, her shoulders slumping a little.

He noted her deflated tone, “Did you want me to come?”

“I mean… yes. I'm a little nervous about talking to this officer again… and people in general really. It might just be reassuring if you were there, I don't know” She spoke, looking down at her feet, “It's okay if you don't wa-”

“No, I'll come” He replied quickly, “Let me just get changed quickly”

“Okay” Kan smiled as he closed the door, and she sat down at the kitchen table waiting for him. Within a few minutes, the door opened again and Echo stepped out in his droid disguise. Kan desperately wanted to ask him why he had chosen to disguise himself as a droid for this mission, but she decided that another time would be better.

The pair left their dwelling, into the darkness of the night, and made their way to the park just around the corner, where the event was taking place. Echo noted the way that Kan's hands tightened into fists as she looked around the festivities nervously.

“Do you want me to stay with you?” He asked quietly.

“No, I mean- maybe stay close by, but you don't need to be right here if you don't want to. I- I'll be fine, uh- being by myself, um, if you're nearby” She replied, her brain scattered by the amount of people around.

“Hey” Echo said, pulling her around the corner and out of the view of everyone else. He flipped up his mask to talk to her, “If you're uncomfortable, we can go back, you're under no obligation to get information this way”

Kan looked up into his eyes as he leaned his hand on the wall next to her. She found them entirely captivating, a soft brown colour that was different from any of the other clones she had encountered. The intensity of his gaze calmed her from her previous worries, but his proximity had her heart racing.

“No, it's okay. I just- crowds can be a little much for me, but it's fine”

“Are you sure?” He asked, his eyes narrowing.

“Yes, It'll be fine” She assured him. and he stepped back, flipping his mask down.

“Okay, let's do it” He said, gesturing for her to re-join the celebration.

Feeling emboldened by his actions, and having a need to feel safe, Kan grabbed ahold of Echo's hand, and pulled him gently through the crowd.

Echo felt as if his body had been set alight by the simple touch, and he knew that his cheeks must be bright red under his mask. His knees felt weak just from such a small gesture, but he kept his form rigid, continuing his droid-like appearance. He looked down at their hands and smiled to himself. Kan's hand was so different from his own. It was smaller, with slender fingers, but that made it fit so perfectly into his.

As they emerged from the crowd, they noticed that they were at the edge of a dance floor. Couples danced around giddily, some old, some young. With Echo's hand grounding her in the uncomfortable situation, Kan looked around and truly appreciated the beauty of the moment.

Echo felt Kan slip her fingers between his, and he looked over to her to see her looking around the festival with a smile on her face. His heart lurched at the sight. The orange glow of the warm lights scattered around the park lit her face so perfectly, bringing out each curve and dimple there was to see. For the first time, he noticed a thin scar that ran along the back of her jaw, stretching towards her ear. The urge to reach out and trace his finger along it almost overtook him, but his thoughts were interrupted as someone approached them and Kan took her hand from his.

“Eka! It's good to see you” Rhidi approached Kan with a wide smile, who in turn cringed at the fake name.

“Rhidi, you too” She smiled politely.

“I'm just on the way to find my wife, but I'll see you later!” She waved as she made her way past them, and Kan waved back, though Rhidi wouldn't have seen it.

“Eka huh?” Echo said tauntingly from beside her and Kan rolled her eyes, “Sounds awfully like someone I know…”

“Ugh, I panicked okay?” She looked at the clone, “From now on, if anyone asks my name is Gek-”

“Gekavi! You came”

Kan turned and her eyes landed on Captain Levy, making his way towards her with a wide grin. She plastered a similar expression on her own face as she greeted him.

“Captain Levy, how lovely to see you”

“Please, just Drass is fine” He insisted, “And I must say, you look absolutely gorgeous tonight”

“Oh, thank you Drass” Kan replied shyly, “You look pretty handsome yourself”

Echo felt like throwing up.

“Thank you my dear” Drass held out his hand, “May I have this dance?”

“Oh” Kan said, genuinely surprised, and hooked her pinky finger with Echo's for a moment. The Captain had not acknowledged him at all, and still didn't as he slipped the rest of his fingers into Kan's and gave her hand a firm squeeze - a quick reminder that she didn't have to do this.

“Okay then” She said, and took his hand with her free one. She looked back to Echo as she did, her hand lingering in his as she let herself be dragged away by the other man.

Echo hated the sight of it with a burning passion. His hand dropping from hers and her walking away with another man. His infatuation with Kan was admittedly rather new, but the sight in front of him just felt wrong, and his jaw tightened with indignance. He watched as the man, perfect in all ways as far as Echo could understand, swept Kan off her feet figuratively, and then literally, as the dance called for it. He tried to reassure himself that Kan was just pretending, but either she was a really good actor, or she was genuinely enjoying herself.

Self-conscious thoughts crept into Echo's mind from the dark corners of his brain, clawing their way out from hiding. I could never dance with her like that. Even if she wanted to, I don't have a hand to offer her. She looks much happier with this man, and he's an imperial of all people. And the worst thought of them all, she would never want someone like me.

Echo's breathing became shallow and he struggled to keep his rigid exterior. Kan danced with Captain Levy for a few songs, and Echo just tried to focus on the music, the band playing instruments he had never seen before. If he wasn't so distracted he'd be interested in finding out what they were. It seemed that the pair were talking about something in depth, swapping thoughts on a subject.

Then, it was time for a slow number. Kan looked hesitant, but the Captain seemingly convinced her, and they took up a more intimate position, swaying to the music together. They appeared to still be conversing a lot as they did so, Kan asking lots of questions, as was her inquisitive nature.

Echo was so vividly jealous that he started feeling dizzy.

Luckily, the song ended, and Kan said goodbye to the Captain and made her way back over to Echo. She grabbed his hand and said firmly, “We're leaving”

The feel of Kan's hand in his once more dissipated the rage that his jealousy had caused. She gripped him tightly as she wove her way through the crowd and out the other side. She didn’t relent in her grip until they were back in their dwelling, and she was pacing back and forth.

“What happened? It looked like you were enjoying yourself” Echo noted, and Kan whirled on him, pointing a finger to his chest.

“I was not. That man is nothing if not vile. He-” She said angrily, and Echo was taken aback. He had never seen her be angry at all, let alone so fiercely like this.

“He what?”

“He was- It doesn't matter” She shook her head, “He let slip the nature of what's going on here, among other things”

“Oh wow, you work fast” Echo tried to ease the tension with a small joke, and she did chuckle a little before her face fell.

“It's some kind of weapon, something that can be fitted to one-man fighters, or used on the ground. He didn't say exactly what it did, but he definitely used the word ‘destruction’ more than once” She spoke solemnly.

“Oh kriff” Was all Echo could say.

“Yeah” Kan sighed, and slumped into a kitchen chair. She pulled her knees to her chest as she often did.

“Why didn't you enjoy yourself? What did he do?” Echo asked, taking a step towards her.

“He-” She huffed, “He was just saying some really nasty stuff” She looked away from him, and Echo knelt on the floor in front of her.

“About you?”

“No, about… clones” She admitted.

Echo sighed, “Well, that's to be expected maybe, he is an imper-”

“That's not the point. The clones- you're a person Echo, and people just talk about you like you're a piece of dirt on their shoe. It's disgusting that people can be so cruel”

Echo found his heart melting at Kan's words for the millionth time. Her anger on his behalf was admirable.

“It’s okay Kan, that's just how it is”

“Well it shouldn’t be” She pouted, crossing her arms over her knees. Echo couldn’t help but smirk at her childlike actions as he stood again. “You're laughing at me”

“I'm not laughing” Echo smiled wider, a small laugh escaping.

“Yeah yeah, and I'm the queen of Naboo” Kan rolled her eyes and stood from her seat, making her way towards the stairs.

“Kan” Echo called after her, and she turned to look at him. He hesitated a little before he spoke, “Look, that man may have been an idiot in the end, but… he was right, you look really nice”

Kan smiled broadly at the compliment, her cheeks darkening, “Thanks Echo”

He just smiled at her, “No problem, I'll see you tomorrow” He walked over to the door to his room and disappeared inside.

Kan stayed stood at the bottom of the stairs for a moment longer, her blush only growing deeper. Though she would not admit it, she truly had Echo in mind when she dressed herself for the night's festivities, and despite the devastating news of this weapon the imperials were building, she felt elated that he had acknowledged her appearance, and even complimented it. Maybe I'm getting somewhere with him…

[natsukishinomiyaswife]

Who should Luca be shipped with?: Redo

If you saw my previous post/poll, I ask that you please disregard it! I didn't realize that so many people would vote for Riddle, when I personally expected for the others to be voted for instead. I have a lot of doubts and worries when it comes to Riddle and Luca being a thing, so I wouldn't really have fun with it. So I've decided to remake my original post/poll, this time excluding Riddle! ♡

Hello everyone! ♡ As I mentioned before, I love exploring character dynamics, and I'm honestly not sure who to ship Luca with (from the main cast, that is!)

His real true canon ship will always be with Octa A (still gotta figure out a name for him lol ♡) but I thought it would be fun for him to have a ship with someone from the main cast too, as a treat lol ♡

I will give a brief explanation of Luca's relationship/dynamic with each character you can choose from, so please make sure to read them before you vote!

Please note that each relationship/dynamic I talk about will be platonic until I decide on someone ♡

Sebek Zigvolt: A lot of things are new for Luca, unused to being on the surface. One of the reasons why he enjoys interacting with others so much is the opportunity it gives him to learn, to talk and listen and ask questions. So he would be more than happy to listen as Sebek spoke of Malleus, Briar Valley, Lilia, his grandfather/family, etc. Sebek's attitude or way of speaking wouldn't turn him away, navigating the conversation with amusement. He appreciates Luca taking the time to listen to him, even if he doesn't say it. Since they both enjoy reading, Luca would go to Sebek for book recommendations, discussing each book with him once he was finished. While Sebek may act like the crocodile stickers Luca gives him are childish, he does cherish them, keeping them tucked between the pages of a book (even using one of them as a bookmark). A book that just so happens to be the first one he ever recommended for Luca to read. His favorite, in fact. (He would deny it if someone saw them though, slamming the book shut as he shouts)

Silver Vanrouge: Luca's best subject is animal linguistics, and he would be so excited to meet Silver's animal friends! Some would be new to him, or animals he's only heard/seen pictures of, asking Silver about them. Quiet conversations, seeing each other in club meetings, waving to each other in passing. If he saw Silver asleep somewhere, he would make sure to wake him up, sticking a sticker on his face afterwords. The stickers he gave Silver were usually of birds, with the exception of a few horse stickers he was willing to part with. Luca has a habit of making food to bring to club meetings, noticing how much Silver and Sebek seemed to enjoy it.

Jade Leech: While Luca and Jade didn't know each other personally growing up, they were familiar with each other's families, their mothers having been friends. Luca shares Jade's fascination with life on the surface, the plants, the animals. He would listen to him talk about his hikes in the mountains, his terrariums and mushrooms. Luca is able to surprise him, never knowing what he'll say or do next. Oh, you're willing to try this mushroom for a few stickers? Sounds like a deal to him. Even if one of the stickers ends up on his face. They work well together in the Lounge, navigating tables and customers with ease. Sometimes Luca can be a bit too friendly though, and Jade has to remind him to stay professional. Yes, surely that was the reason...

Che'nya: I just think it would be fun to see them interact with each other lol ♡ The silly cat beastman with the silly anglerfish mer? Ultimate silliness, everyone beware lol ♡

If you think I looked over or missed someone better suited for Luca, please feel free to let me know! ♡

To be fair, I will include Riddle's dynamic with Luca, in case you were curious about it! ♡ (If you still think Riddle and Luca should be a thing, please leave a comment letting me know why! I will need some heavy convincing to help dissuade my worries/doubts...)

Riddle Rosehearts: A lot of things are new for Luca, unused to being on the surface. One of the reasons why he enjoys interacting with others so much is the opportunity it gives him to learn, to talk and listen and ask questions. Since they're in the Equestrian club together, Riddle is one of the people he turns to whenever he has a question, listening and taking his knowledge to heart. Riddle enjoys his eagerness for learning, how excited he gets whenever he discovers something (like when he learned horses were real, for example) He also appreciates how Luca does his best to follow the rules, and tries to be nice when his questions get to be a bit...nonsensical. When a new stationary store opens on Sage's Island, they're both excited for it, but for different reasons...

Luca: A new stationary store means...stickers!! Riddle: A new stationary store means...school supplies!!

Thank you! ♡

Tagging some moots to get their opinion (if you don't wish to be tagged, please let me know!): @scint1llat3, @skriblee-ksk, @boopshoops, @nicoliharu, @cheerleaderman

@offorestsongs, @kimetsu-chan, @0honeybones0

[mamirhodessxox]

Hey There Delilah (Part 4)

Cody Rhodes x Fem OC!Reader

(Delilah Jones)

Storyline: Delilah was born and raised by the beach in L.A and grew up in a home where her parents expected her to go to Harvard & become a well known woman who marry’s a man who is a lawyer after high school. But that’s not what she wanted, She always wanted to own a boutique/flower shop & she did, once her parents discovered she wouldn’t attend college they left her to fend for herself but allowed her little sister Kinsley to visit or sleep over whenever, Her little sister always had an eye for WWE but Delilah never understood why but little did either of them know one of Delilah’s customers would become well acquainted. (Creds to @alyyaanna for helping me w the storyline)

Contents: Toxic parents, Angst, Fluff, Smut in later chapters, Based in summer 2023, Alcohol, Violence, Corruption Kink, Size Kink, ETC, Loss of Virginity, Daddy kink, Fingering, Oral sex (Creds to @alyyaanna for writing the oral sex part bc I couldn’t do it for the life of me) P in V sex, Dom!Cody

{~I'm very serious with you guys interacting with my writing!!!! it would make me so happy & excited, the more comments & reposts the more inspiration i have to write :) likes and comments are strongly appreciated so please COMMENT COMMENT COMMENT COMMEENNTTT the more comments the more content <3!!!~}

The summer was going by slowly, Cody & Multiple of his friends would visit or hang out in the shop during the slowest of days including Delilahs childhood friend Mirabella was. She just moved back to L.A after living in new York after graduation and it had been the best time except one thing. She did not like Cody very much, Atleast Cody thought so, but to Mira she thought of him as a brother but just treated him with a lot of tough sibling love.

Today Mira sat behind the register while Lilah wrapped up a few bouquets until Cody, Randy, Seth & Jey walked in with lunch while Kinsley just made her way down to grab something, Lilah smiled and scampered over to Cody “You brought lunch? You didn’t have too I was just about t-“ he shook his head and gave her a quick kiss “Can’t keep coming in without some sort of treats that’s rude.” Mira rolled her eyes muttering “Your face is rude.” Causing Seth to giggle before Lilah smiled shaking her head

“I haven’t seen you guy’s in a while how are you?” Randy shrugged shoving his hands in his pockets “Been on the road for a little bit, Now we gotta start getting ready to go to another summer slam in Perth Australia” Lilah got a little nervous hearing about this after last weeks mishap that Mira knows a little to much about but Cody butted in “I was just about to ask, we’re getting a vila and stuff and I didn’t wanna leave you by yourself again so why don’t you, Mira & Kinsley come with?”

Lilah smiled a little bit & fiddled with her fingers “I’m sure we’d love to come with, right Mira?” Mirabella was zoned out for a minute looking at Randy but quickly nodded her head getting up to go into the backroom to go out with kinsley while Cody smiled and wrapped his arms around Lilah while the guys got tuned into a separate conversation “You look so goddamn pretty today angel.” She became flustered and nodded her head nervously which made him chuckle and run his hand through her hair, Lilah was so disgustingly attracted to Cody that anytime he touched her whether it were out if pure lust or innocence she would overstimulate herself anytime she felt those things like that time at church & he knew.

Mainly because she’d whimper and tell him she felt certain things and that’s when Cody would need to take her somewhere private just to she her get off & crying about how he makes her feel good. Cody hummed gripping her waist and that’s when she stood up on her tippy toes to mumble whatever needed to be said in his ear before he snuck her off upstairs into the apartment and took her to her bedroom, She laid down and moved her legs around while he moved her dress up and stared directly at her “what’s the matter baby use your words, I know you can sweet thing.” He teased her while she cried out squeezing her thighs together from all of the feelings she had in her tummy & what was in between her legs “f-feel funny Cody please!” She whined pawing at his arm while he smiled watching her react in such a way, he ran his hands up her thigh “Look at you baby, ‘bout to cum and I haven’t even touched you yet.” He teased while she cried into her hand nodding while he rubbed his finger over her clothed pussy making her cry and move around “Cody please!”

He smiled and leaned up to kiss her “Princess your overwhelming yourself relax.” She whined and tried calming down until Cody got back down & took off her panties “Cod-What are you doing?” He shrugged and laid his tongue flat against her clit before Cody held her thighs tightly into his massive hands after he tossed her undies to the side, he growled when he took a glance at her slick wet folds and traced them with his middle finger. He licked her gathered juices off his hand and smirked "sweet....just like i imagined..."

He layed feathery kisses on her inner thighs while maintaining eye contact and kissed her clit then licked a long stride making her whimper and squirm under him. He pushed his thick middle finger into her folds and groaned at how tight she felt "fuck..." he pushed a second finger in and scissored her clit while he licked her clean not wasting a drop of her sweet nectar

She whined and moved under him trying to free herself from his hands and at least get a look of his face He pinned her back down slightly choking her and shoved his tongue into her pussy making her see stars and shake in pleasure before she started cumming and covering her face while cody was busy lapping up whatever he could before getting up to go get her a new pair of panties and clean her up before lying down next to her “how do you feel angel?” She whined out in response before rolling over to face him “ ‘m feeling tingly..” he chuckled and pressed a kiss against her cheek “that’s normal princess don’t worry.” She smiles and flopped her head on the pillows while Cody got up “Gonna go close up the shop for you and then I’ll be back okay?” She lazily nodded and closed her eyes diving into sleep while Cody went downstairs.

Mira raised an eyebrow behind the register “Wheres lila-“ He smiled “napping, gonna close up the shop for the day since she’s very tired” the guys looked over and squinted while SETH started talking “Wait a goddamn minute she wasn’t tired 40 minutes ago.” Cody glared as he flipped the open sign “Well she is now,” Mira gagged in the background while Randy got off the phone “Flights tonight at 11 so I’d recommend we all get home and start packing.” Cody hummed leaning against the door “I already have my stuff ready just gonna spend my few hours packing lilahs stuff & Helping Kinsley.” She peeked out from the boutique “Where are we going?” She questioned while Mira started leaving to get her stuff “Australia. You’ll like it there it’s fun” Jey smiled while she squealed and ran upstairs as everyone left.

After a a long few hours of Cody picking up Lilah & Kinsley after getting his belongings, Going to the airport with everyone, flying all the way to australia which took almost an entire night & Day they finally got there, Everyone was completely jet lagged & were just glad the event didn’t start until tomorrow, They all got to a rented out Vila where they would be staying and decided to rest for most of the day. Lilah sat in a bathing suit completely knocked out by the pool while Cody did the same but with her thighs as a pillow while Rhea came outside & quietly nudged Cody awake holding a plate of food and staying as quiet as possible for Lilah’s sake “Made some food thought you two might want some?” He sat up nodding before taking the plate which was filled with shrimp alfredo & set it on the poolside tables while Rhea smiled “How’s she holdin’ up? She like it here?” Cody rubbed his eyes nodding before clearing his throat still waking up “Yeah she is, Just super tired & getting used to the time difference, she’s really excited just really sleepy.” He looked over towards Lilah who was completely knocked out “We were gonna go swimming and just as I started putting sunscreen on her she was out like a light.” Rhea laughed quietly nodding while patting his shoulder “That time difference will definitely take awhile to get used to.” She smiled and walked back inside while Cody stretched a bit and laid back down against her thigh massaging it a bit “Sweetheart wake up”

Lilah whined a bit before stirring awake and rubbing her eyes “How long was I out for?” She grumbled before sitting up and stretching her back a bit “Like an hour or 2, not too long.” He smiled while pointing at the plate of freshly made food “Rhea made us lunch incase we were hungry.” She smiled “We can share yeah?” He nodded his head in response and started to eat with her and just take it easy. Once they were finished Lilah got up to clean the dish while Cody went to go take a shower, Mira walked over to Lilah & smiled “You excited to be here?” She nodded her head which made Mirah smile even more before addressing the elephant in the room “So, You & Cody? What are you two exactly?” Lilah furrowed her brows as she thought about it and looked over at her “I actually dunno, It’s never really been addressed.” Mira raised an eyebrow and placed a hand on her hip “So your telling me your letting this bleached ass white boy fin-“ Lilah widened her eyes and covered Mira’s mouth “Shh!! Nobody needs to know!!” Mira rolled her eyes laughing against her hands before pushing them away from her face “Lilah cmon’ EVERYONE knows he’s going down on you.” Lilahs face went ghost pale & started panicking but Mira calmed her down “We just don’t care. If he’s doing all of that for you then good for you. You need the dick.” Lilah scrunched her face “Language.” Mira smiled playfully “And i’m not even getting THAT. I’m still virgin, I’m just saving myself?” Mira gave her a look “Girl- Okay.” Lilah rolled her eyes smiling before leaning against the counter “I’m gonna go up to my room & unpack now.” Mira hummed “Yeah okay. You go ‘unpack’” Lilah smiled and walked off upstairs to her & Cody’s shared room and started taking stuff out of her suitcase humming a bit before actually thinking to herself about Cody’s relationship with her.

Cody got out of his shower already semi dressed & Saw Lilah organizing her clothes smiling “Hi princess, What’cha doing?” She perked up and looked over at him “Cody what are we?” She randomly blurted out and widened her eyes quickly putting her hand over her mouth while Cody chuckled walking a little closer “What do you think we are Angel?” He hummed and moved her hand “I dunno..” he smiled smugly “Well what would you want us to be sweet girl? Hm?” He rested his hands right against her hips while she started stuttering over her words “What is it baby? You wanna be mine? Want me to make you my only girl huh?” He whispered and pressed her up against the bed grinning while she started pressing her thighs together nodding “No I want you to say it Angel, go on, Say it, Say i’m yours sweetheart.” He kissed her neck a little bit grinding his crotch up against hers while she started whining and squirming “Y-Your..Your m-mine” she croaked while he smiled and bit her neck a little bit before pushing his hand into her bikini bottoms making her gasp & buck her hips “C-Cody I think I want m-more.” She blurted out which made him look at her “Yeah baby? You want more? More what huh?” She knew exactly what he wanted her to say & she teared up in pleasure while he started fingering her in the process “Want my cock sweet girl? Go on baby, I can’t give you what you want until you start using your words sweetheart, say you want my cock angel c’mon” she whined as he curled his fingers in her pussy and started going faster “W-Want your c-cock!” She cried out.

Cody grinned and kissed her in a sloppy manner while pulling his pants off along with her panties, Lilah hitched her breath the minute he started tapping his dick against her clit, He tangled his hand into her hair and kissed her “It’s gonna hurt for a little bit alright princess?” She nodded as her eyes became glossed over and leaned her head back moaning once he pushed himself inside of her, there was a slight sting & let out a breathy sigh while Cody waited for a moment while entangling his hands into hers, Once she nodded in approval he started taking slow thrusts & letting out quiet grunts before tugging off her top & tugging on her nipples “Taking Daddy’s cock so fucking good sweetheart.” He moaned into her neck as the pain started fading away for her & soon turning into an overwhelming amount of pleasure, Lilah’s guilt set in for a little bit for not waiting for marriage like she was expected too but she also didn’t at the same time. Her legs wrapped around Cody’s hips & bit onto her lip whining once he started making his thrusts faster & sloppier, Lilah bit the back of her hand to suppress any noise which made Cody smirk and started to pull out but she shook her head begging but soon let out a loud moan once he harshly thrusted back inside and moving a hand away from hers to tease her clit.

Lilah started shaking and tapping his back “Cody ‘m gonna-“ he hummed and held her face “Gonna cum princess? Yeah? Gonna cum all over my fucking cock huh? Make me yours?” She whined nodding her head vigorously and moan against his neck before while he smiled wrapping his hand around her throat while grinding his cock directly inside of her cunt before she let out another loud moan and try pulling him further inside of her “D-Daddy!!” She squeaked out before cumming and scratching at his back leaving very visible marks before he pulled out and quickly came all over her stomach groaning. He rolled off of her and held her close letting her rest and leaving a kiss against her temple “You did so amazing angel, so goddamn good for me.” He muttered while playing with her hair before she noticed a few scratches on his arms “Oh no..I’m sorry! I-I wasn’t paying attention!” She blabbered tracing her fingers over the scratches barely sitting up while he shrugged looking over into the mirror sitting in front of the bed “Well I’m yours aren’t I angel?” She nodded shortly before he kissed her “I love you princess, I do, you should know this.” He mumbled against her lips before picking her up and carrying her into their bathroom to have her take a bubble bath.

Meanwhile downstairs Mira sat in the kitchen with Seth nodding slowly “I’m not trippin right? We both heard that?” He laughed while everyone was luckily outside at the pool “How the hell did a girl with the innocence of a literal puppy who goes to church every Sunday & pray AND read the bible 24/7 manage to loose her virginity before I do?” Seth shrugged laughing before pulling out juice from the fridge “Because you haven’t found your person yet.” Mira looked outside watching Randy teaching Kinsley how to do a proper dive and smile softly “I think I did.” Mira and Seth watched as Cody came downstairs dressed and retrieving fruit for Lilah while she took her bath Cody felt like he was being watched and looked over at the two while seth pointed out his very light arm scratches while Mira got distracted staring at Randy “Nice scratches.” Cody flipped off Seth while putting a variety of fruit into a bowl “Dude shut up.” Seth laughed while Cody made his way upstairs.

The next day it was time for yet another Summer Slam event, Cody had a match against Brock & had Lilah & Mirah sit with Samantha outside of the ring and already addressed there would be NO table smashing while Lilah was there. The boys were out into the ring as the match just started and Mirah let out a laugh as she saw very clear nail scratches displayed around his back & Arms while Lilah covered her mouth in shyness “Way to fucking go Lilah! That’s what I’m talkin’ about!” Mira nudged her arm while Cody slammed Brock into the ground part of the ring and directly pointed at his back to show off that he was clearly taken before continuing off his match against Brock.

Eventually he won & everyone met up backstage to get ready to celebrate & go out somewhere But Cody quickly approached Lilah smiling “What’d you think angel?” She smiled and kissed his cheek before hugging him “You did amazing Codes! I just didn’t like watch you getting hit.” She giggled while he shrugged “Yeah well, Had to take some in order to win.” He smiled before pressing a kiss against her lips and clearing his throat “I have something to give you sweet girl.” He dug through his suit he changed into and gave her a pretty little ring “It’s a promise ring, ‘got it for you before we flew out here when I had the time.” She smiled widely and put it on and gave him a kiss.

Lilah knew deep inside this is the man she wanted to merry whether it took time or not Cody was all she wanted, no matter what she knew he would have a future with him & absolutely looked forward to it.

🏷️ list: @ginswife @coolpastelartshoe @greatkoalawizard @cokolin044 @kotoriarlert @alicerosejensen @bunnybot55 @agent-dessis-posts @adollonyourshelf @valkyrurr @alyyaanna @niknakbucks92 @mini-rhodes @southerngirl41

xtripleiiix’s Masterlist

[lilmissnatcat24]

I gotta ask 1. Electric sheep!

queen thank you!!!! i'll put what i just wrote down (maybe like 20 minutes ago lol)

“There,” said Dr. Nars, clearly satisfied. “Everyone’s happy. We’re all friends. Isn’t that right, Commander Shepard?”  “You know who I am?”  “Please, I’d be more concerned if I didn’t know the Hero of the Citadel. And, incidentally, you come in a pair. Although, your partner I believed was a bit more… out of order.”  “I got better,” said Garrus dryly. His visor showed a very slow meter ticking ahead.  48% power… 49% power… Estimated two minutes and twenty-four seconds remaining…  “Clearly…” said Dr. Nars, a note of casual disbelief in her voice. She turned to Miranda, whose face was scrunched up and vaguely resembled those wrinkly dogs that humans insisted on sneaking through Customs on the Citadel. “Why have you come here?”  “We need your help,” Miranda said. Which, as far as Garrus had known Miranda, was the most direct he’d ever heard her before. It was borderline pleading, at least for her. On a scale of Asking Politely and Groveling on Hands and Knees, Miranda was somewhere in the middle with Pretty Pretty Please With A Cherry On Top.  “Mm, that much I got on my own,” said Dr. Nars. “I mean, who else would risk coming into geth-controlled space just for a chat? I get the Normandy has state-of-the-art cloaking mechanisms, but still, geth do have eyes.”  “As much as I’d love to have this conversation here, in the open, rotting corpses to the right,” Miranda said testily, “I fear this isn’t the most opportune location. Our ship is in orbit, she can be here in minutes.”  “Oddly enough, hopping onto a Cerberus vessel sounds almost as bad as getting decommissioned by a horde of geth,” said Dr. Nars. 

[skeletinmoss]

The curse of the dark Phoenix

Chapter 7: Memories at the inn

First chapter | Previous

The inn was an adorable little cottage down a little dirt road.

A small stable next to it.

It didn’t look big enough to house more than two people and one horse but…

“Is it bigger on the inside?” Roman asked, giddy with excitement at the prospect.

“Of course,” Virgil chuckled.

“The real building is somewhere else. This is just a place holder for the doorway,” he explained as he got of the horse. The three great wizards followed his example and led the horses to the stable. Stepping in it was suddenly big enough for at least ten. It seemed well taken care off. The hay was fresh there was clear water and food present. “Included in the price,” Virgil pointed out as he they led the horses to a stall and fed and watered them.

“Rest up. We’ll be back soon,” Virgil assured them. Clearly he wasn’t planning for them to stay the full night.

Ordinarily Roman would point out that the roads got a lot more dangerous at night, but Virgil had already held his own against bandits with little to no effort. So that probably wouldn’t keep him from finding his friend as soon as possible.

They followed the high mage to the front door. “Hmmm. I wonder who’s running the place now. Elaine’s gotta be in her seventies now and little Harry would be in her fifties…” Virgil mused before knocking. “Play along,” he warned.

It only took a few moments before the door was opened by a kind looking man about their age.

“Hello. Can we help you?” he asked, not quite opening the door for them.

“Hello, my grandfather had this place marked on a map and me and my friends hoped to get a room here. Um… Not sure if this one is still good. But um. Good night sun the stars have missed your smile?” he tried.

The man chuckled. “That is an old one. But that does sound like granny Elaine,” he allowed before opening the door fully for them.

“Welcome travelers. What brings you to our inn?” he asked as he let them in.

“Just a place to gather our bearings and a meal if you have it,” Virgil stated.

“Who’s there darling?” a new voice wondered from somewhere in the back.

“Customers love! Just sit tight I have it handled!” the man assured the woman.

“What kind of customers?” the woman insisted, coming into view. She was also in her twenties, and with child. And she looked at them as though preparing for a fight.

“Just here for a meal and a conversation. They had one of your grandmother’s passwords,” her husband explained.

That gave the woman pause. “I see… Which one exactly?” she asked.

“Good night sun,” the father to be said as he stood by his wife and gently wrapped an arm around her waist subtly supporting her to make sure she didn’t over exert herself.

“They entered through HoneyGlades cottage,” he added. The woman’s eyes widened a little and she took in Virgil for a long moment. “Verry well. I’ll lay down. You see to it that they are taken care off?” She asked her husband. The man nodded. “Of course,” he pledged.

The woman kissed him on the cheek and then nodded towards them in goodbye, eyes lingering on Virgil once more.

Once she disappeared back into the private living quarters the jovial man turned back to them.

“Well, with my wife reassured that you are not here to burn the place down. Do you want dinner first or do you want to start with some rest?” he wondered.

“We’ll have dinner in a little over an hour if that is alright with you,” Virgil said.

“Excellent,” the man nodded as he reached into his pocket and retrieved a key. “One room?” he guessed. Virgil nodded. “That will do, thank you very much.”

On the outside, Virgil seemed perfectly pleasant. But Roman could feel his tension. Something about this situation made him nervous.

Nevertheless he accepted the key and lead their party to the associated room.

Once the door locked behind Virgil he slowly sunk to the floor against the door and let out a long sigh. “Elaine, I swear if you just blew my cover,” he mumbled, sitting on the floor.

“You don’t want people to know you are alive?” Patton wondered.

“Not so long as I’m not sure the one who put me in that box is dead and buried. They could hunt me down or worse finish the job on Remus and Janus before I can save them,” Virgil explained, rubbing his temples. That made a lot of sense.

“Anyway… let’s start with your thing. I don’t think I’ll be able to manage after mine,” Virgil decided as he got up and approached them.

“Our thing?” Logan asked.

“Gustav’s second home. I’ll show you my memory of our last conversation, when he mentioned it. It’s easier to remember the details when you relive a memory and if we do it together you guys can pick up clues I might miss. I’m a little preoccupied,” Virgil rambled a bit uninterested.

Probably because ‘his thing’ involved listening to the messages from his possibly dead friends again.

“That sounds like complicated magic,” Logan pointed out.

Virgil shrugged as he started to go around the room, rubbing herbs between his fingers and making gestures as he went around. How did he make it look both casual and precise?

“It is complicated to learn. But with most magics, once you figured out how to do it, it’s not hard to do at all. I’ll definitely have to meditate after though… There that should do for a while,” Virgil decided.

“What is That exactly?” Logan wondered.

“A time seal. Now that is complicated magic, no matter how often you do it. But the good news is, once it is in place it will hold until the ring is broken. In other words, we won’t be wasting more than an hour in here even if we do sleep a full eight hours,” Virgil explained.

“You shouldn’t do it too often and I don’t have the ingredients to do it a second time, but the situation warranted it,” he explained.

Logan and Patton looked at Roman as though asking him how many dangerous conduits were used for this spell, but Roman chose not to worry about that.

“So,” Virgil said before turning to Logan and Patton. “Are you two ready?”

Roman frowned. “What do you mean ‘you two’? There’s three of us,” he pointed out, gesturing to himself to emphasize his point.

Virgil hesitated. He was worried.

“Yes… But you are tied to my emotions as it is. Diving into my memories… It might be a bit more intense for you than it will be for them,” Virgil pointed out.

Roman frowned. “Will it make it harder for you?” he asked.

Virgil just stared at him for a moment. “What do you mean?”

“Will feeling my emotions on the matter make it harder for you to do the spell?” Roman insisted.

Virgil looked at him for a long moment, utterly baffled if Roman read him right. And he did.

“No. But why would you want to put yourself through my emotions more than you have to?” Virgil wondered. “Listening to the messages again is already not going to be a walk in the park,” he warned.

Roman nodded. “I know. I’ve felt how worried you are,” he pointed out. “But I’m not missing any clues. Understanding your feelings, even the ones you might have dismissed at the time with a new set of eyes. I might catch something that could clue us in on what’s going on here. Not just with the mage, but with you and your friends. So. Unless you aren’t comfortable with me joining in, I want to join you. I want to judge for myself what Gustav was really like. I… I have questions. And I’m not going to pass up any opportunity to have them answered even a little,” he said, squaring his shoulders and staring at Virgil intently. Almost willing his emotions to transfer as clear as possible.

Virgil was still hesitant and looked back. He could feel worry, caution, a bit of conflict. He wanted but also didn’t want him there.

Roman set his jaw stubbornly. He was not going to take no for an answer.

Virgil sighed resigned.

“Well, if you are sure,” he allowed.

“I am,” Roman insisted.

Virgil nodded and made a dismissive motion.

“Alright, get comfortable and relax. You are going to have to let me in in order to bring you out so to speak so just focus on breathing,” he instructed.

The three friends sat themselves on the bed. Roman closed his eyes and focused on the air entering through his nose, filling up his lungs and then leaving again the way it came.

He could hear his friends breathing with him… Breathing with Virgil… And he could feel a draft across his skin. He opened his eyes.

He was soaring through the sky, his heart racing with excitement. Flying made him feel like a kid again every time no matter how much time passed.

The lights of the castle got closer. He headed for the ballroom, knowing there’d be a window left open for him. There.

He dove down and midflight he changed form.

Changing form didn’t stretch him or push his body in strange ways. He became energy and that energy just took a different form.

Right now, that form was of a man in tight dark pants, a royal purple silk shirt and a cape that flowed behind him. His fingers still ached a little where his needle had pricked him as he finished the embroideries only an hour ago.

But it was worth it…

“Master Virgil!” He looked towards the voice. The young prince was approaching. His eyes bright and eager and full of love and curiosity. He couldn’t help but smile. A strange ache of longing swept through it but he didn’t react to it. As though he hadn’t felt it at all.

The ten year old boy embraced his leg by manner of greeting.

“Prince Thomas. A pleasure to see you at this party. I expected you to be in bed already,” he mused.

“No! Daddy said I could stay up until after you got here to say hi!” The prince’s excited smile warmed his heart. “Well hi, young prince. Are you doing your best during your classes still?” he asked.

The prince nodded. “Yes, yes! Can you teach me soon!?” the boy pleaded.

He chuckled. “I’ll check in with your teacher and see what he has to say. But if you are doing your best, and your father says it is okay. I don’t see why not,” he allowed.

The prince cheered.

“Alright Thomas, master Night Flame is here, now it’s time for bed. He’ll be having breakfast with us tomorrow,” an older voice insisted. He bowed. “Your majesty,” he offered humbly.

“Always polite master Night Flame,” the king chuckled warmly. “Say goodnight Thomas,” the monarch urged.

“Night Virgil! Will you tuck me in daddy?” the prince pleaded.

“I’ll come up in a minute, if you are ready for bed when I do, I’ll even read you a story,” the king promised.

Thomas’ eyes widened and he hurriedly took the hand of a staff member who guided him out and to his bed.

“He adores you so. You truly think he’s got the gift?” the King wondered.

“Everyone could learn magic if they truly desire it your majesty. And the prince has more than enough passion for the craft. But I do believe he has talent too. Who knows? We might be looking at a dragon mage in our lifetime,” he said, truly believing in the young boy.

“Now wouldn’t that be something,” the king mused before turning to Virgil.

“Thank you for making it master Night Flame. Enjoy the party,” he bid before heading out to tuck his son in as promised.

“Need a drink?” a familiar voice wondered. He looked up. Oh. Gustav.

He smiled and accepted the offered cup of wine. “Thanks Gustav. How are you?”

“A little less bored out of my mind now that you are here,” his fellow mage winked.

He took a sip of his drink, not wanting to get into it now.

“I take it your presence tonight means that that little issue at the bogs has been cleared up?” Gustav wondered.

He relaxed and nodded. “Yeah, it wasn’t as complicated as everyone made it seem. There should be safe passage now for our traders and theirs,” he assured him.

“Master Virgil!” another voice greeted, Gustav’s face fell a little before he put on a dignified polite expression and turned with him to see who’d called on him.

“Jacob, how are you doing?” he wondered kindly.

“Verry well. Thank you. The advice helped wonders,” Jacob smiled as he bowed a little to both his elders.

“I’m glad,” he nodded. “But don’t waste your time here, I’ll be in the city for a few days, we can catch up later. I believe Gloria is around here somewhere. And you never know when she’ll disappear for a few decades,” he pointed out. The younger mage blushed, bowed again and left.

“He is quite fond of you,” Gustav pointed out.

“Eh, he feels he owes me for the recommendation. One day he’ll outgrow that,” he insisted.

“It has been almost a century. You’ll have to accept how easily you inspire others to devotion,” Gustav argued.

He felt a bit embarrassed and uncomfortable at the complement.

“I still can’t quite wrap my head around the fact that you spent 5 years as a shiny decoration on his family’s fireplace,” Gustav mused.

He rolled his eyes and sighed, less uncomfortable with this. “I’ll never live that down, will I?” he noted.

“Only because Remus will never quite be forgiven his carelessness by the rest of us,” Gustav said, clearly still holding on to anger for the incident.

“That’s a little harsh don’t you think? It was a mistake. I mean. I was pissed as well at first but it’s been a long time now…” he argued.

“If the roles were reversed, you would not have been so careless,” Gustave pointed out.

He couldn’t argue much against that. “I haven’t known Remus to ever feel much remorse for anything. But that incident, he still feels crap about it. And if there is one thing Re is less likely to do than feel remorse it’s linger on the past. He hasn’t even touched my holding stone since,” he insists defensively.

Gustav sighed. “Apologies. It was just… A terrifying idea for all of us. That you were lost and defenseless and possibly in the worst hands. We were not exactly at peace with the Aticians at the time,” he reminded him.

He nodded. That was true. “I know,” he allowed.

“What have you been up to these days anyway?” he wondered. Changing the subject to anything that wasn’t him.

Gustav lit up, delighted at his interest. He sipped from his drink again and took in the scenery in between looking at his colleague as he listened.

So many familiar faces in the room. Most he’d known for such a long time…

“Well, the downside of peaceful times is that my line of expertise isn’t exactly needed by the crown. Upside is I finally got around to finding that private getaway you recommended me… Pffff, what was it a millennium ago?” Gustav joked.

He chuckled. “Feels that long,” he nodded as his eyes drifted over a group of recent graduate wizards talking to equally new mages.

“Well, I found a good place up North. Nice scenery, hidden amongst the old ruins of a stronghold I didn’t even know were there. I just need to get your wonderful housekeeping tricks settled in and I just might have that feeling of ‘home’,” Noctora mused. A brief sting of pity made him turn his full attention to him.

“I hope you do,” he said genuinely.

“Thanks,” Gustav said. “I’m also thinking of branching out a bit. Times of such peace as we know now call for different skills. I’ll just have to figure out where I fit in there. It’s kind of exciting. I haven’t reinvented myself for a long while,” the mage smiled. “It seems to do you good though. Looking to become a fulltime private mentor now huh?” Gustav queried.

He couldn’t help a fond smile as he took another sip from his drink. “The prince seems rather set on the idea,” he agreed. “And I always enjoyed teaching whenever the academy requested me for a guest lecture,” he noted.

“They’d be delighted if you took that permanent position though,” a new voice mused as a different mage appeared by his side. His heart filled with warmth and comfort and longing that didn’t belong in this moment.

“There you are Janus. I was starting to think you hadn’t made it,” he teased.

“As if I ever pass up a chance to dress up,” Janus smiled before looking at Gustav, any warmth or pleasantness draining from his face. “Noctora,” the taller mage greeted.

“Ventigo,” Gustav said evenly.

“What are we talking about?” another new voice screeched.

“Oh, boy. There goes my evening,” he teased getting a jab from his old friend.

While Janus looked equally young and untouched by time as the rest of the high mages, Remus had a streak of white in his unruly hair and his face was just slightly gaunt.

“V man. You didn’t take that wine from Gassy did you? What if he poisoned it?” the gaunt mage pointed out.

“Like I could mix up a poison or potion that would get past his senses. I swear I wouldn’t be able to get away with dropping a single grain of sugar in his cup without him noticing,” Gustav argued.

“But you would if you could huh?” Janus challenged.

“Guys please. Let’s keep it pleasant,” he insisted, not wanting another argument.

“Sorry, you are right,” Janus allowed.

“Hmmm was just teasing,” Remus huffed, rolling his eyes.

“I believe this is my cue to leave. It was nice talking to you as always Lord Night Flame. Maybe visit sometime, then we can talk uninterrupted with no distractions,” he suggested.

He nodded and bowed his head. “Enjoy the rest of the party,” he agreed.

Gustav turned dramatically and stalked away…

The room became unfocused as his friends started talking to him about ‘putting up’ with Gustav and other things. He felt he was being pulled away… And then he was sitting on his bed but standing in front of him… No. Wait. He was.

Roman looked at his hands and then at Virgil. Right. He wasn’t High Mage Virgil of the Night Flame. He was Roman the light phoenix Great Mage.

“Hm. Interesting,” his friend Logan, not Janus, mused next to him.

“Oh! Oh that was so exciting! Such a lovely party and all those people!!!” Patton, not Remus, gushed on his other side.

“Roman, are you okay?” Virgil wondered worriedly.

Roman nodded. “Yeah… It’s just. Kind of like waking from a very realistic dream I guess…” he mused. That was something.

Virgil looked at him for a long moment before nodding.

“Good. Learned anything?” he asked.

“Quite a lot actually,” Logan mused. Roman nodded. The glance into a thriving magic community had been awe inspiring. The idea of bringing that back to the people… The weight of the situation finally settled in his mind. This was going to be something people would make songs about…

“Were the times before king Theodor truly that war heavy?” Logan mused.

Virgil pursed his lips. “Yes and no. If you talk about outright conflicts there were few. But for the longest time, diplomatic relationships came down to a lot of spying and sabotaging.

Janus and Gustav were both essential in maintaining that tentative peace. Janus as the main negotiator when truces were renewed and Gustav as a gatherer of vital information that Janus could use to do those negotiations,” he explained.

“He was a spy?” Patton asked perplexed.

“You could call it that,” Virgil agreed.

When Theodor took the throne an era of trade and cooperation started. Luckily for him the current monarchs of our neighboring kingdoms were open to that change.

I also don’t know for sure what a sudden lack of Great and High mages did to the power dynamic. But losing the ‘Arch Mage’ likely didn’t help. I’m surprised they waited this long to try and fix that situation,” Virgil noted.

“Likely the council hadn’t accepted that the ArchMage was truly gone yet,” Logan suggested.

Roman could feel how dissatisfied Virgil was with that reason.

“More on topic though,” he said, not wanting to go too far down memory lane for Virgil, nor think too much about the doubts that had started to come up now that he’d seen the Arch Mage in person. “We now know we have to look for ruins in the North when we start looking for the Arch Mage. And Old ruins. It sounded like whatever they used to be hadn’t been around or known about for a long time. Long enough to be forgotten by even the High Mages. Can’t be too many of those around,” Roman pointed out.

Logan nodded. “But if no one knows they are there, it might become a challenge to find them anyway,” he countered.

Oh… Right.

“Seems like you were very popular,” Patton pointed out.

Virgil shrugged. “Within the magic community, everyone knew everyone. Great Wizard and up you usually were on a semi first name basis with most,” he explained.

Roman remembered the intense feeling the Prince had evoked and decided not to dwell on Virgil’s connections with the royal family. “Now… There was something you wanted our help with?” he recalled instead.

Instantly Virgil closed up. Even his emotions became less clear to read for Roman. He was not looking forward to this.

“Yeah… Yeah I do,” he allowed before settling on the floor, the rest of them joined him. Roman at his right side, ready to offer comfort in any way he could without exposing Virgil.

He got a sense that the gesture was appreciated.

Virgil retrieved the stone. “I… It might get uncomfortable for you. So if you need a break…” he offered. Roman shook his head. “If you can deal with I can too,” he insisted.

Virgil chuckled and shook his head. “The offer stands,” he insisted as he looked at the stone for a long moment. Logan took a notebook from his backpack and readied his quil.

“Here goes…” Virgil sighed.

The stone glowed and the voices started.

“Virgin!” that was the voice that had belonged to Remus in the memory.

“The party’s been over for a week. Don’t tell me you are still recovering?” he demanded.

“People haven’t been able to reach you Virgil. So either answer or we’ll come and drag you out the door,” the other friend, Janus insisted.

“Virgil it’s been another three days and some legit weird stuff is going on. Great mages dropping dead. And Jonah disappeared. Like woosh! I know you didn’t get jumped or anything so call us back already!” Remus insisted. The start of the plague. Two weeks after Virgil got locked up? Less than that… Coincidence? It had to be… Right?

“That’s it! I’m coming over and you better have a good reason for ghosting us!” Remus insisted.

“Jaaaaaan…”

“Remus. Did you find Virgil?” Janus replied hopeful.

“Weeell… Not exactly… Unless he’s about to find me…,” Remus answered.

“What do you mean?”

“Well I was at the house close to breaking the door down. And then I felt a burning in my neck and next thing I know I wake up being carried off down some stairs in this fishy tomb thing. Stuck in my guide form. I still have my stone though!” Remus offered.

“Wait you are captured?”

“I think I’m the god of a cult… Maybe V is around here somewhere too…?”

“The god of a… Where are you?”

“I don’t know! Some leaky dungeone temple! The lion part of me is very upset at the leaking,” Remus elaborated.

“Okay… Fine I’ll try and come get you. Hang on.”

“Remus its-!”

“Janus…? Janieeeee… I’m not sure how long cuz there’s no windows. But I’ve eaten a bunch of time and slept a bunch so it’s been a while… You good…?”

Roman’s eyes widened as he recalled what Virgil said about Remus taking longer to go silent… How much longer?

“Is this payback for the jewel incident? Cuz it’s kinda funny, but I’m a bit on the edge of taking it serious here guys…” Remus insisted.

“Well, guess nagging you until you reply. You know I can be stubborn…”

There were a few messages that contained nothing but random facts and allusions to embarrassing memories. Once he even speculated on his ability to top Janus.

“Still nothing… Gosh I thought for sure… I wasn’t serious… I just thought you’d say something…”

“Have you guys lost your stones? I mean if you did you couldn’t tell me… Am I talking to the void…? Can it talk back please?” Message upon message softly pleading for someone to reply. Some complaints about the cult’s uniform the dampness the never ending light of the giant red shining rock. Then it somehow got worse.

“Did I make you guys up?” That broke something inside Virgil upon hearing it and Roman’s heart genuinely ached.

“Am I a person…?”

“If none of it was real. Then why do I miss it?”

Then a few messages listing things he thought to remember about himself and his friends…

“Hmmmm It shouldn’t feel this long should it? However long it’s been… But it feels like… Like this is more real… What if it is…?”

“I hope it is though. Then maybe you’ll come for me… So I can kick your butts!” Virgil let out a chocked chuckle at that.

“I miss you.” And then the stone stopped glowing.

“Do you need to listen again?” Virgil said with a strained voice.

“No. I noted anything he said about the location, his cult and the kidnapping event down here,” Logan assured him, tapping the notebook.

“Great.” Virgil nodded before holding the stone up and speaking into it urgently.

“Remus. Hang in tight okay? I just got freed from my prison by three newbies. You’ll love them, they’re clueless,” he smiled fondly. “I’m on my way. I’ll message you every day so you know I’m still coming. I’ll find you Remus. And together we can find J. You know you want to rub that in his face for the next century.” He rambled off quickly, desperately, before dropping the stone and letting his head fall into his hands.

He was shaking. Roman knew he wanted to cry. Instead he watched him take a few deep breaths before righting himself.

“Alright.” He breathed. “Let’s discuss what we learned today.”

[raijin-ghostar]

I remember being in elementary school and having to choose,

Do I visit with my friends or do I focus on school work?

and you get in trouble for visiting with your friends,

but you need it so bad because

there is absolutely

no

other

time,

no one had the ability to just go and talk online or

go over to your house

so you'd have to juggle,

reprimanded for having fun.

Now you're an adult and you have to do the same thing.

but you give a shit about your job,

and you actually want to do it,

it drains you to plan out every fucking social moment,

during the in betweens,

they have no idea the things you want to say

and the conclusions you want to make

or the fact that when you have a conversation you want it to

begin and end

without an interruption,

a task or a customer

And imagine being so desperate that you take

a shorter break, come in on your days off,

just so you can hang out

lonely enough that you try

to fill up every single moment possible,

because you know this time will pass

and night will come,

alone again

And I am so tired

because, no one gives a fuck about me

not really

if they did, they would spend more time

learning about me

or hanging out with me,

or getting to know what I'm like

when I get to finish having a conversation, like

when I actually get somewhere with what I want to say and

do you know how sad someone has to be

to spend the better part of a year showing up to work instead

of having a day off or a day in bed,

just because they might get a chance to have finally have

a full conversation, a moment at last

where nothing interrupts, thanks to my own tasks

where I can just be the person I am,

talk to a person I know that can

fill me up inside, feelings of love,

a weight coming off of me, I can't get enough

but you can't love me, it's easy to see

when you take all this time with me, but

won't give me your own free time

it hurts and it shows

how meaningless I really am

Sure, everyone is busy

everyone has things they would much rather be doing

than spending any time outside of work with me,

and I get it, I do, really

I remember two days off

no set schedule

barely any time to myself

the full-time, management routine

I get it

really

but I have no one able to meet me

not in the way I have been wanting

Halfway

something nice between us,

a moment, just relaxing

I don't know, maybe

a few hours in my bed

scrolling and napping

A TV show or a video game

or just a walk and talk, I guess

I'm an idiot for thinking anyone

would ever get to that point with me,

especially you, when you play your

very specific game of

walking the line

Because in adulthood people just don't do that,

a classic friendship, I guess, really

It's like we all forget we're human beings with

needs and emotions that need tending

and I remember what it was like to spend my time

with someone who was funny and relaxing

someone who wanted nothing more

than to spend all their time with me

and it was more than welcome

I guess I'm jealous

of myself, in the past

Sometimes you don't know how good you got it because you're so focused on the bad

It doesn't matter because the reality is

you get what you get

there is no sense in trying to change it,

other people's feelings or their actions.

if they want to leave you all alone,

you gotta let them.

no matter how much it hurts to feel like

you're going without,

let them leave you if they want,

so you can let go of the doubt,

the useless stress, all the pain,

let it go so that real love can find you,

once again

[deathsbestgirl]

actually i feel like i gotta tell you about two of my regulars.

one of them is so so sweet. he's kind & friendly, a bit awkward. and he comes in every single day and hangs around the cafe (eating, drinking coffee, reading, working). when his dad was coming in all the time, he used to tip $5 for maybe $5 order just because i'm kind to his son. sometimes the guy makes me uncomfortable. he doesn't ~do anything, but he's a little too familiar. and i complain about him all the time because i ~have to be nice. but really, i notice when he isn't there. he tries to make me laugh. he notices when i'm not there. i know he tries to wait til i'm on the register to order. he always brings up his dishes and tries not to leave a mess. he actually puts the books he doesn't buy back where they belong. he would also tip me pretty well about once a week. yeah, sometimes his attention makes me uncomfortable, but he's harmless. he never complimented me until one day i told him the shirt he was wearing looked really nice on him, because he took that as a signal that it was okay to compliment me. he definitely struggles with social cues, but that always stood out to me.

another customer, the first time i met him, he yelled at me. he definitely struggles with social interactions too. i know he goes around to different cafes most days and is ... kind of a nuisance. he isn't really nice, but i don't think he means to be rude. i always try to be kind to & patient with him because, honestly, he makes me kind of sad. he seems lonely. he annoys me *a lot* but i also see the way he tries to reach out. we have casual conversations. he doesn't leave tips, but he's given me two beach themed pictures, two keychains and a mug with cats on it. i gave the pictures to my mom, they're not my taste but she said she could probably put them up somewhere (she lives at the beach now lol) and i love the cat mug. i didn't keep the keychains. it's a little weird, but it seems like his way of showing appreciation.

i tweeted earlier about ~someone teach me to be mean~ but i don't want to be mean. i would rather be kind to these guys who i know don't experience it enough from others. every time my coworkers say things like "you're a better person than me" or "you're SO nice" (and it isn't like they're actually mean, they just don't ~entertain as much as i do) but i really just don't have it in me to be mean. sometimes i get short, or it's obvious i'm not in the mood. but i still can't be mean and i try not to take it out on them.

anyway. i hope i remember this next time i have to deal with them instead of just getting annoyed & pretending.

[meadowmines]

OC-Tober 31: free space :)

[In which Aoyagi gets his weekly visit from his dirty old uncle]

Aoyagi is shoving a batch of bread in the oven for the dinner shift when he hears the door ding. "Be right with ya," he calls over his shoulder.

"Aw, c'mon," a familiar voice calls back. "What's a guy gotta do to get some pussy around here?"

God. Aoyagi tries not to laugh. He really does. He doesn't try very hard. "You sure you wanna burn yer one allotted pussy joke per visit right in the door?" he yells back as he shuts the oven. "You know where yer seat is, ojisan."

Tuesday evening, after the lunch barista and cooks have gone home and before the dinner crew shows up. Just like clockwork. Aoyagi watches from the kitchen as the old man picks his way through the main room to his favorite comfy chair, careful as always not to plant his cane on any paws or tails. A few of the cats trot over to greet him as soon as he sinks into that chair. The fact that he keeps "accidentally" dropping things they're not supposed to eat probably figures into that. "Where's my favorite girl? Hey, Miyuki-chan! Pspspsps--"

Miyuki is facing away from the door and has not yet noticed her favorite customer, and so she goes on licking herself. "She can't hear ya," Aoyagi reminds him. Seems like they have this conversation every time. There are even signs on the wall--Miyuki's glamour shot captioned I'm Miyuki-chan! I'm not ignoring you, I'm deaf! Thank you for understanding! It never sticks. To be fair, though, Aoyagi has been Miyuki's guardian for three years now and he still catches himself going pspsps at her when he knows damn well she can't hear him. "You want the usual?"

"You know it," the old man says. "Hey. Where's that Siamese-lookin' one?"

"Luna? Uh..." Aoyagi starts lining up ingredients on the counter. Eggs, cheese, ham, sourdough bread. "Check under the tables n' stuff. She's been into feet lately."

"Heh. My kinda gal. Naw, the other one. The boy? Little fat one with the stubby tail?"

"Oh, Mochi! Yeah, he got adopted yesterday."

"No kiddin'? Good for him."

"His replacement oughta be around here somewhere..." Aoyagi sticks his head out of the kitchen and sees a big battle-scarred orange cat with big old tom jowls and a clipped ear and a bad case of resting grump face standing up with his paws on the old man's knee. "Yeah, the tough guy climbin' up on ya."

The old man reaches down to give the tough guy a scritch. The tough guy lets out a gravelly meow. If a cat could smoke a pack a day, that's what it'd sound like. "Thought he looked new. What's yer name, bud?"

"He ain't got one yet. We're callin' him 'Nyan-han' for now." Aoyagi goes back to work. "Hey! Yer gettin' decaf. Last time I gave ya the real shit the boss gave me an earful about yer blood pressure."

Aoyagi swears he can hear the old man roll his eyes as he folds a sheet of egg around a slice of cheese. "That was before the doc straightened my meds n' shit out. It'll be fine this time."

"Ojisan."

"The boys ain't let me have one minute of fun since '88." Aoyagi does not know exactly what happened in '88. He's heard bits of it, but the old man's always just sort of handwaved it off. He got hurt, from what Aoyagi gathers. Bad. Bad enough that he almost didn't make it, bad enough that he was never the same after. Aoyagi wonders, but can never quite bring himself to ask, exactly what he was like before. Then again, he probably doesn't need to. Sometimes the old man says something, or gets a look in his eye, or moves a certain way, and Aoyagi thinks maybe just for a second he can see the shadow of the hellraiser Homare Nishitani used to be. "And Yu-chan's the worst of 'em. Caffeinate me."

"The boys and the boss are just lookin' out for ya," Aoyagi says, firmly. "And so am I."

"Tch. Ya hearin' this shit, Nyan-han? Awright. C'mon up here." The old man pats his knee and Nyan-han hops up with another hoarse meow. His face is no less grumpy, but he's slow-blinking and making biscuits like his life depends on it. Probably purring his head off, too. "Heh. Grouchy li'l shit, ain't ya?"

"That's just how his face is." Aoyagi stacks the cheesy eggs onto buttered sourdough with a slice of ham and puts the whole thing back on the griddle to toast. "He looks mean as shit but he's a sweetheart."

"Heh." The old man goes on petting Nyan-han as Aoyagi loads up a tray with fresh fruit and a cup of kitty treats and a plate ready for the sandwich. He waits until the old man's full attention is on Nyan-han and quickly pours a cup of decaf. "Kinda reminds me of Majima-kun."

Aoyagi's eye twitches.

"You do too. More n' more every day."

Aoyagi flips the grilled sandwich onto the plate and cuts it in half, then carries the loaded tray out into the main room. He neatly sidesteps a massive tortie that tries to throw her entire body weight into Aoyagi's leg as he passes and sets the tray down on the old man's table. "I'm nothin' like him."

"Huh." Funny. Aoyagi would have expected him to have more to say about that. But he doesn't. Aoyagi just unloads the tray, and he just goes on petting Nyan-han until the tray is empty. And then he reaches into his jacket pocket, draws forth an obscenely thick wad of cash, and slaps it on the table. "Lock up."

"Haw!?"

"I'm buyin' ya out for the night. That's a thing with restaurants n' shit too, right?" The old man gestures towards the stack of money. Aoyagi guesstimates it would cover dinner, late night, and then some for his whole staff. "Give yer minions the night off. And then fix ya a plate n' sit down." He shrugs. "C'mon. I don't wanna eat alone."

"You're not eatin' alone, ojisan. Ya got ten cats out here with designs on yer ham."

"I want two-legged company that don't treat me like I'm gonna keel over n' die if I drink one cup of decent fuckin' coffee." He snorts out a humorless laugh. "I can't drink anymore. I can't smoke. I can't drive. I can't get it up half the time n' even when I can, I can't do a damn thing with it other than--"

"Awright! Awright! I'll do whatever ya want! Just don't finish that sentence!" He grabs a sign out from under the counter and hangs it in the front door: Closed for private event, will reopen at 11AM tomorrow. aPAWlogies for the inconveNYANce :3

"Attaboy," the old man chortles.

Aoyagi heats up a bacon cheddar scone while he calls his crew and tells them they've got the night off with pay. He cuts up his own little pile of fresh fruit and pours himself some coffee and once again makes his way through the gauntlet of friendly cats with a loaded tray. "I shouldn't be doin' this and you know it," he says as he sits down.

"Yeah, yeah." And right about that time, Miyuki finally turns around and sees her favorite customer. With a joyous earsplitting yell of the sort that only ever comes out of cats that can't hear themselves, she hops down from her perch and trots over to say hello. "Hey! There's my favorite girl. Oops." And he "accidentally" drops a sliver of ham on the floor in front of her.

"Dammit, ojisan." Aoyagi intercepts the ham and wads it up in a napkin before Miyuki can snarf it down.

"Aw, c'mon. Let her live."

"Last thing I need's my number one girl comin' down with the runs in a customer's lap tomorrow. Ya got a cup of kitty treats right there. Give her those."

"Awright, fine." Miyuki hops up into the old man's lap and snuggles up next to Nyan-han. Nyan-han leans over, licks her ear a few times, and goes to sleep. "Ya gave me decaf, ya little shit."

"How the fuck can you tell!?" Aoyagi splutters. "It tastes the same!"

"No it don't." The old man takes another sip and there's that gleam in his eye, the one that hints at the unholy terror he used to be. "Rest of me's goin' to shit but my tastebuds still work. Ya brew yer decaf stronger. Like ya think that's gonna make up for it."

"Tch. Nothin' gets past you, does it?"

"Eh. Not much does." The old man goes on eating his sandwich and feeding treats to the cats. "How long ya been with us now, Amano-kun? 'Bout three years?"

"Somethin' like that," Aoyagi says.

"Ya still that sore at him?"

"What's to be sore about?" Aoyagi takes a big bite of his scone in the hopes that it'll take long enough to chew that the old man will change the subject. He doesn't. "He just tried to kill me, is all. Nothin' to be sore about."

"Any particular reason ya asked Yu-chan to train ya with a blade?"

Shit, how does he... forget it. "Any particular reason ya won't let him look into why Majima called a hit on me?"

"Touché," the old man snorts. "Ya little shit. Like I said. More n' more every day. Get me a cup for the road, would ya? The good shit this time."

"Go to Matsubara on the way home n' leave me out of it."

"I'd drink garbage water straight outta the river before I drink Matsubara's shit. I like your coffee."

Aoyagi sighs. "Flattery will get ya everywhere, old man. Fine. I'll pour ya half a to-go cup but ya gotta tell the boss ya had to torture me for it." Which, given the turn their conversation took tonight, isn't that far from the truth.

"I'll tell him I snuck back n' poured my own while you were in the can."

"Deal."

The old man finishes up his dinner, gently deposits Miyuki and Nyan-han on the floor, and starts to haul himself out of his chair. Aoyagi offers him an arm. He waves it off. He always does. He's always determined to do as much as he can still do by himself, and Aoyagi can't really blame him. So he just pours half a to-go cup of regular coffee and hands it to him. "Torture," he says.

"Yeah, yeah. I ain't rattin' ya out. Hey, I bought ya out for the whole night. Get outta here. Go take a walk. Get you a hooker or a Nintendo or whatever you kids are into these days."

"Fuck's sake, ojisan." Aoyagi shakes his head. "Be careful headin' home."

"Yeah, yeah."

And with that, he's gone and Aoyagi is left alone with ten cats and a lot of thoughts he didn't want tonight.

[jordex]

11.12.2022

Finally logged back onto Tumblr for the first time in years. Have no idea what’s gonna happen to Twitter so figured I’d check back in before folks start abandoning ship lol.

A few immediate thoughts upon my return:

It looks like the last time I was active here was before transferring to IC. I logged on a few times sporadically while in Ithaca, but clearly not very much. There’s a few FEH memes (so def 2018/2019, very infrequent), but lots of RP/fanfic stuff (pre-2016), so quite the time-skip. Interesting.

Gonna have to go back in and customize my theme at some point.

Might need to change my username too. It’s still Jordex, definitely a dead handle now.

Going through my inbox and reading past conversations I had with friends and moots.... very strange and nostalgic lol. 

Not sure what Tumblr’s culture is like now (if it’s changed at all), but I’m gonna keep an eye on it maybe, especially if folks start to migrate over here from Twitter. 

Gotta get to bed, though. It’s past midnight. Though it’s a three day weekend, I’ve got a D&D session at 10am (lmao) and I wanna hit my leg day workout before the session, so yeah.... 

Interesting to reflect on how 2022 Jordy is so different and altogether the same as the ‘Tumblr era’ Jordy... which spanned somewhere between 2009-2015 probably. It covered all of high school, all of my time at Flo (first college I went to), and pretty much stopped shortly before I graduated from Flo and transferred to IC. What an interesting time period of my life to be encapsulated by Tumblr, haha.

Anyway, to bed I go. Gotta try to get a decent sleep if I wanna kill my workout tomorrow. Night night. 

PS: As I’m finishing typing this, I’m just now remembering that I had the #me tag to document some of my ramblings and selfies... I’ve yet to peruse that tag, but I’m very nervous to. Worried I may have vented or shared something embarrassing, so I’ll have to check that out tomorrow. Oof. Dreading that lmao. Gonna have to cleanse that tag before I share my Tumblr with my friends.

[fardell24b]

Spider Quinn 06 - The Lawndale Files - Part 2

SpiderGirl wasn’t sure why Brittany wanted to talk to her. “What’s up?” she asked.

“Um, What is it like being a hero, fighting crime?” Brittany asked, whilst twirling a pigtail.

“Difficult. But the thanks I get from the people rescued from muggers make it more than worth it.”

“What made you start?”

“Someone died,” SpiderGirl answered, trying not to give anything away.

But it seemed that Brittany made some connections. “Like that carjacking, when one of my friends’ father died two weeks ago.”

“Yes,” SpiderGirl said carefully. “That was the last straw. That was when I knew Lawndale is declining into a crime filled…” she paused, seeing that Brittany got what she was saying.

Brittany nodded. “But you have powers, right?”

“Yes, but why are you asking all this?” SpiderGirl asked.

“Like, after that death, I’ve been thinking about what’s been happening. And maybe I could help in some way.”

“I work alone,” SpiderGirl answered. She then saw the dejected look on Brittany’s face. “For now.”

“Oh,” Brittany said.

“I’ll think about it,” SpiderGirl said.

Brittany smiled. “Cool.”

“Are you heading home now?” SpiderGirl asked.

“Yes, in Crewe Neck,” Brittany answered.

“I can get you to the gatehouse. I need to get somewhere, as I left a friend in a tight spot with another friend to investigate what you were up to.”

“Sure.”

SpiderGirl came to the ground and stood up. “You can hold onto me, but it may be more difficult for me to swing if it’s the other way around.”

“The former,” Brittany said as she threw her arms around the superhero girl.

“Not too tight,” SpiderGirl said.

“Sorry.”

“Let’s go.”

What followed wasn’t scary for Brittany, rather exhilarating, as they headed in a southeasterly direction from Howard Drive towards Crewe Neck over rooftops and through trees.

While Brittany was talking to SpiderGirl, Daria and Jane were having their own conversation.

“Is that song getting happier or am I just getting more miserable?” Jane asked Daria regarding Trent’s music.

“It's verging on bouncy, all right. But please, continue with your delightful presentation.”

“You've got these government types at school telling us to watch out for weird behavior. Then the alien nut on TV says the same thing. Meanwhile, your mother is weird, your sister is weird, and all the kids at school look at us funny.”

“That's not new,” Daria said before Jane could say more.

“Yeah, but now there's respect. And that song? Maybe it's the alien signal and Trent's beckoning to the U.F.O.”

“Ah, but the U.F.O. went away.”

“Well, maybe aliens don't like sucky music and he's actually trying to save humanity,” Jane explained.

“When do we get to the crop circles?” Daria asked, before Trent’s music stopped.

“Uh-oh. The music stopped,” Jane said and hid her drawing under the bed.

“Hey, what’s going on?” Trent asked as he entered.

“Nothing,” Daria answered.

“Nada,” Jane added.

“Not a thing,” Daria said.

There was an awkward pause.

“That's some song you're working on. It's different,” Daria added.

“Nothing different about it. Nothing at all,” Trent denied “I gotta go and, uh, practice my same music that uh... isn't any different from the other stuff I play.” He then left.

“What was that?” Daria asked.

“You're starting to get weirded out, aren't you?” Jane asked.

“No, absolutely not.” She jumped a little as the doorbell rang.

Jane opened the door.

“Pizza!” the guy there said.

Artie Walker was a little worried. He was sure that he saw SpiderGirl carrying a cheerleader when he had dropped the last Pizza. He was certain that she was one of Them. At least the Lanes were good customers. “Could you hurry up? I got other pizzas to deliver, and if I don't get them there on time, they're free. I really gotta go.”

“On your way over here, you didn't see any, um, lights in the sky or anything?” the bespectacled friend asked.

“Just ‘SpiderGirl’ and she was carrying a cheerleader away!”

“You think she’s an alien?” Jane asked.

“Don’t you? No human can do what she does!”

Meanwhile, back at the Morgendorffers, Helen brought desert up to Quinn’s room. Except she didn’t see Quinn there, just Stacy looking at something on Quinn’s laptop and Tiffany looking through a magazine. “Where’s Quinn?” she asked.

“Um, in the bathroom!” Stacy said.

“That’s OK,” Helen said, noting her daughter’s friend’s usual slight panic. “I’ll leave her desert with you.”

“Sure.”

“I know Sandi left. Are they OK?”

“I don’t think so,” Stacy answered. “It’s like they’re drifting apart.”

“I see.”

Helen then went back downstairs, thinking about what Stacy had said.

SpiderGirl and Brittany arrived at the Crewe Neck gatehouse.

“Thanks for the trip. It was wonderful,” Brittany said.

“You’re welcome,” SpiderGirl said. “I’ll get back to you about what you asked.”

“Sure,” Brittany said.

SpiderGirl waited until Brittany had entered the gated estate, then started heading back to Glen Oaks Lane.

The Pizza guy was still talking, as they ate their pizza. “... and anyone who tells you aliens are taking over their body is nuts. All they want is our skin 'cause your skin remembers what it feels.”

“Hmm. Hey, you ever written any lyrics?” Trent wondered.

The guy’s pager then beeped. “Fired again? Man, this happens all the time. Ever since my encounter with those darn aliens!”

“Oops,” Daria murmured.

SpiderGirl arrived back at the red brick house on Glen Oaks Lane and quickly changed back to being the usual Quinn.

“I’m back,” she said to Stacy as she entered her room.

Stacy handed her the desert. “Your mom brought this up for us. I’ve already had mine,” she said.

“Thanks,” Quinn said.

“So, what was Daria doing?” Stacy asked.

“She just went to her friend’s place.”

“OK.”

“I might have run into someone else from school, though,” Quinn said.

“Who?”

“Someone who asked me something about Daddy,” Quinn answered quietly. “I don’t need to tell you who they were.”

“Oh.”

Stacy was quiet for a while, before they started talking about other things.

Daria soon returned home. “Are you OK?” Helen asked when she came in.

“I’m fine. I mean, I miss Dad, but that’s not why I had gone out.”

Helen nodded. “Still, I am worried for both of you.”

“I think it’s Quinn you need to look out for more,” Daria said as she headed up the stairs.

“I know.”

Shortly after Daria got back, Stacy saw her mother pull up outside. “I’ll be going,” she said. “I’ll see you in the morning.”

“Wait, Stacy,” Quinn said.

“Yes?” Stacy asked.

“You’re interested in Superheroes right?”

“What brought this on?” Stacy asked. “Is it SpiderGirl?”

“In a way,” Quinn answered enigmatically. “I have seen some of your books.”

“Oh right,” Stacy remembered. “When I was younger, I collected comics and bought books. But that changed after I met Sandi in middle school.” She looked outside again and saw that her mother was coming up to the front door. “But that can wait.”

“Of course,” Quinn said.

“Wait, Stacy,” Tiffany said.

“What now?” Stacy asked, slightly annoyed.

“Could you take me home?” Tiffany asked.

“Sure!” Stacy said.