#they only released to see where some would go

[hyacinth-in-a-haze]

The stranger- Yandere husband??? x fem reader

Contains - minor smut, obsessive behaviour, corporeal horrors, body horror, neglect.

You are starting to think the man in your home isn't your husband.

It was the night after your wedding when he left to go to war, you looked up at him as he stood beside the bed fastening his armour while you covered your bare chest with the sheets. Neither of you spoke a word to each other. You still remember your thighs were sticky with his spend, and it was as though he looked everywhere in the room but at your direction. The wedding itself felt like a farce, he only needed someone to maintain his estate in his absence, picking the daughter of one of his vassals to do the job. You only spoke one sentence to him in the glow of your room before he left.

“Would you like me to give you a token?” You were still bright eyed and used to novels of courtly love. Naive enough to believe that if he didn't love you yet he would at least have respect for you as his wife.

The only thing he met you with was a grimace “Why would I want something like that?” He muttered before closing the door behind him. Leaving you there in the dark unsure if you did anything to upset him.

That was three years ago, now with the war over and all the men returning you heard stories about men returning changed from war. Quiet and unable to handle loud noises, or volatile and quick to blows. But you heard nothing about a man who once felt nothing for his wife returning home full of love.

In all the years he's been gone he's never written to you, never asked after you. The man who returned however sought you out firstly, took you in just arms with a passion you thought only existed inside those novels you long abandoned as lies. And you wanted to believe it, wanted so much to be deserving of the love you always wanted. Until you noticed some things-

His eyes flickering between colours from the start to the end of the day. Moments when his features just looked wrong on his face, slightly off angle and misplaced. Or when you'd wake late at night, turning over to your side and freezing when you'd see a void where his teeth should be. But most of all, it was his newfound gentleness, following you throughout his day without caring for the household. The way he'd hold you to him at night, gentle as he pistons in and of you, asking reassurance for your comfort, wanting to make sure you're not in pain. How he'd have you cum over and over before he would allow himself release. when your wedding night was a stab of pain, and a handful of grunts over in five minutes before he abandoned you. This cannot be the same man.

You've taken to superstitions hoping they would help. Spending hours in the temple only for him to cross the threshold and find you. Keeping salt in your pockets but he'd still have his hands all over you. The only thing you haven't tried yet was silver until you spotted him through the keyhole, cracking in two before forming himself back again. Dressing up in the skin of your husband as though it's an evening suit.

With only the moon as your witness you hold the blade carefully above his heart, it would only take one push and then the thing masquerading as your husband would reveal himself. He is beautiful in his sleep. But with the beauty of a statue, an imitation of life from the perspective of an outsider looking in. You thrust the knife down- only to be interrupted with one eye opening.

“Why can't you just be satisfied with this?” The cloying affection is finally dropped from his voice as he grabs at the knife you hold against him. “He wanted nothing to do with you but here you are, unwilling to accept all the love i have to show you,” blood drips down his palm and onto his sleep shirt, falling in thick black drops.

“What are you?” you cry out “You've stolen my husband's face and wear it for what purpose?” you try to push the knife deeper but his grip blocks you before you can break flesh or what constitutes his flesh.

“I am someone who can take any shape I wish, I took your husband's face because I quite enjoyed the life he led in his memories. Nobels always lead the most fun ones, and they tend to die easily in battle so it's rather easy to switch skins from one man to the next”. He smiles and you could swear his teeth become sharp. “Normally I'm quick to switch my interest, but how could anyone grow tired of a life with you?” His hands move, pinnng you underneath him, staining the shoulders of your gown black with his mud like blood.

“I tried for you, I read those books you hid beneath your bed, copied them exactly but you never would accept it. Is it my face? Am I not pretty enough for you? I assumed you'd want me to keep his face at least publicly but in private I can be anyone you want,” he pleads desperately leaning down above you as his face begins to shift, features rearranging themselves. You become dizzy as he swaps faces, “I can be anything you want, take any form all for you!” He transforms into the stable boy who blushes when you take his hand, to the guard that accompanies you out from the castle, to the knights from all your abandoned books, before going back to your husband. Not stopping until you scream for him to end this game.

“Show me your face then! The true one!” your scream silences him as he pauses, leaning down into your neck.

“Do you really mean that?” his breath is hot on your neck as he begins to shift. A creature of ink spilling over your body, a thousand hands and lips caressing you. Made of smoke and stone you can't escape the weight he holds over you.“My love,” a thousand voices speak in tandem, “my sweet sweet love wanting me as I am.” the creature giggles almost, giddy on his adoration of you, “but I can't stay like this for too long, else you'd become mad,” he coos, you feel teeth across your neck, nipping the skin, careful not to devour you whole. He's still so careful as you feel tendrils spreading your legs, caressing you wherever he can find skin. You can't breathe with him stealing the air from your lungs.

He transforms back slowly, reducing into bone, then sinew then flesh again. Your husband's form, a minor horror compared to what you just witnessed. He smiles with too-sharp teeth as he pulls you close to his chest as though to steady you with his false heartbeat. “My sweet little wife, how could he have never loved you?”

[willwasnotfound]

Other kind of demon

DAAAAAMN, I just invented this today and it's waaay crazy that it has so many likes :'v (at least for me) Thank you everyone for reading this, I promise I'll do my best to give you all whatever you want, again, sorry for any mistakes, english is not my first language! Prologue, Chapter 2

The souls you left behind

Calling Y/N the new member of huntrix was both wrong and correct at the same time, she still sang by herself, but started to release a lot of songs with the girls, and that was enough for the fame of both to increase.

She not only was a great singer, she was great at composing and writing, she made up song for both, Huntrix and her, loving the recognition it got her.

Pop/Stars was just the begining, she wrote more and more, ironically, More was the next song she wrote, inviting a chinese singer that was also rising up on the industry, making it one of the biggest hit on the charts.

Tonight Huntix had an important show, it would be the last before taking an important break that they needed reaaally bad.

“Everyone look alive.” Bobby, the manager of the group, said to the concert staff backstage making sure everything is perfect for the performance of the group. 

“All right. Looking good over there. Okay. Ready? Ready. But where are the girls?” Bobby, double checked everything around the arena and looked on his phone to see any updates from the girls. 

“What? What? Where are they going?” Only to see on his phone that the plane of Huntrix was going out of track on its destination. "Y/N! Did the girls told you something??" Bobby kept freaking out, searching the mentioned girl.

"I think they just might have problems." Y/N called the girls, and they answered quickly.

"Hi Y/N!" The tree girls greeted her with a smile, then Bobby as he appeared on the screen too. "Hi Bobby!"

"Yeah, hi! Uhm, what are you doing?" Y/N passed her phone to Bobby, just leaving to backstage and prepare some stuff, she already knew what might happen. "We're about to eat our preshow ramyeon." Rumi turned the phone to show the food they had on their jet.

"Pre-show? What about the show-show?" Suddenly, the phone was stealed from him from some fans, and he foughted to have it back.

Then Y/N appeared again, helping Bobby to have the phone back and also talking with the girls. "Hey, need some help opening?" She quickly appeared on the screen, to which the girls nodded.

"Yeah, I think we've got a plague." Mira turned to face the flight attendants clearly annoyed.

"We owe you one!" Zoey smiled brightly to then end the call.

"So?" Bobby stood aside from her, trying to calm down, if Y/N was calm it was probably a good thing.

"I'm going to open the show, don't overthink, 'kay Bobby?" Y/N went straight to the stage. "Please, put on the track." She talked to a staff behind Bobby, he only nodded, and encouraged Y/N.

The fans were screaming in excitement, they had expected her to be there, yes, but not that soon, and as the final note rang out she signaled to the sky, noticing the figures of the main evente and calling for the public to also look at them.

"Look up at the sky, I present to you, Huntrix!" With that, a cloud of smoke raised in the area, from which a demon emerged falling between spectators, along with the girls on stage, interpreting "How it's done." Zoey quickly killed the demon, making it go 'puff' and explode into confetti, pleasing the fans.

As Rumi reached the highest note, they could see golden in the Honmoon, smiling excited as their goal seemed so close. The rest of the concert went normally, the first songs were the ones that shared with Y/N, after that, she leaved the stage to take a break.

She was tired, she got rid of Gwi-Ma, yes, but somehow she kept hearing voices, not from her mind, it was like the demons that the Huntrix girls slained runed to her, to find another demon on the realm to rest.

Y/N was not a normal demon, that's for sure. She actually devoured souls, but probably not like Gwi-Ma did, or at least she wasn't really sure about that, perhaps he did hear the agony and enjoyed it.

So yeah, that's exactly what happened to Y/N, somehow she fed herself by demons, unlike whatever she thought and told the hunters- It was like they knew what she was, and didn't wanted to let her go, remembering all she was before even becoming a demon, she didn't want that, she tought she would forget, and yet, the more she leaved all behind, the more it seemed to chase her.

The concert finished, and she reunited with the girls after they left their staff behind.

"Hey Y/N!" Zoey went to hug her tightly, being followed by smiles of the other two.

"Thanks for saving our ass, the concert could go wrong without you." Mira patted his back. "No problem, I'm glad to help you." Y/N pulled apart from the hug, the girls started to walk away to the car that would leave them on their penthouse.

"Do you want to come over with us? We'll be having an important meeting with our couch." Zoey jumped happily next to the girls.

"I wouldn't like to bother you, thanks." Y/N brushed off and keep walking behind them. "Also, I have some stuff to do, I need to write some things and then just sleep."

"But I thought you didn't need to sleep?" Zoey tilted her head slightly, being followed by Mira.

"When I hadn't take a break for days I do need to rest." Y/N sighed and waved at them as she saw how they got into the car. "But have a nice rest on your couch." She chuckled.

"Okayy, be safe!!" Zoey said already on the car, after a bit losing track of their friend.

"I'm a demon, I think I can take care of myself." Y/N turned into a shadow, starting to roam through the city.

She did'nt lie to the girls, she was in fact tired, but everyday she did a patrol just to be sure that demons weren't around.

This world was now hers to protect, and it was just because she accepted to be with the hunters, if not, god knows what would have happened.

And suddenly, she felt a presence. No, not one, five. They were demons for sure, she could sense them, and even as a shadow, she knew they could see her too, they were just like her, humans with deals to seal.

"I know you're watching me." Y/N stopped and showed her human form, her eyes shined with that golden light as she searched for the ones behind that presence. "Show yourself." And as she barely turned around she found them, five male demons standing in there, their patterns shining just like their eyes, she was basically surounded, all because she let her guard down.

Shit.

Ngl, I improv half of this cuz I started to disociate through it, I'm so sorry if there are errors, I really tried my best to make it have sense :'v

Umm, I don't know, let me know if you liked it or not! I''l try to get my writting habilities better, I'm not perfect at english grammar T-T

Taglist: @just-set-things-on-fire, @gremlinartstudio, @latisthegenderfluidwannabealone, @katzline

[dayntee]

One element of the Dragon Age story that I want to emphasize: If the team had known in 2021 (after the single-player pivot) that they'd ship in Oct 2024, it'd be a much different game. Instead they were always under the impression they had to finish in 6-12 months, which led to all sorts of problems.

****

Putting this in a BIG FAT HIGHLIGHT because it's the source of most of the problems AAA studios keep seeing time and time again, to the point that I don't think you could talk to a dev about this kind of situation and they'd ever find it odd. I can't tell you the number of projects I've been on where we have a due date and we all jovially laugh because we know how unrealistic it is and understand the likelihood it's going to slip is basically 99%.

It's been completely normalized as "this is just how working in games is."

BUT IT DOESN'T HAVE TO BE.

Had leadership taken a good, hard look at the long term instead of setting what was likely an arbitrary release date that would inevitably get pushed back, a production pipeline that takes advantage of four years of planning instead of oh god what do we get done in six months results in an entirely different product.

I guarantee there were decisions they wanted to make, like recording new lines or sculping new models, that they immediately decided up front they did not have the time to do, only to find out with the multiple delays they would have had the time to do all of them.

But leadership, and especially shareholders and executives, do not give a shit about long-term goals. They are not invested in you, the company, or the work you're doing at said company. You are a number in a spreadsheet that will stop mattering to them in roughly 3-5 years, because that'll be about the time they'll have flipped whatever investment they made into short term returns, abuse of bankruptcy clauses, and appreciation of stocks just in time to peace the fuck out in a golden parachute to another company where they will do it all over again.

The system itself is inherently broken, because the people in charge of running it do not have the best interests of the industry or its workers in mind. They care only about lining their pockets and milking every last benefit they can from overworked, passionate creators who just want to make their mark on this world. They fundamentally do not have the same goals, and as long as that remains true, we'll keep seeing this stupid song and dance play out over and over again.

Okay, rant over, I'mma go flip some tables or something.

Some follow up posts following the recent Bloomberg [article]. Rest of post under cut due to length.

Jason Schreier: "One element of the Dragon Age story that I want to emphasize: If the team had known in 2021 (after the single-player pivot) that they'd ship in Oct 2024, it'd be a much different game. Instead they were always under the impression they had to finish in 6-12 months, which led to all sorts of problems. This happened with Suicide Squad, too, and countless other games that seemed to be in development for years but in reality were just delayed half a dozen times, offering the team little opportunity to plan or make smart long-term decisions" [source, two]

Jason Schreier re: this Reddit post which is titled 'To the DA devs after that Bloomberg article': "I suspected that hearing the whole story behind Dragon Age: The Veilguard's tumultuous development would lead to a lot of fans expressing empathy for the people in the trenches [link]" [source]

Blair Thorburn: "the worst part is that those issues were called out almost immediately, and the choice was made to push on. this strategy backed the team into an impossible situation from the start, and it was a miracle we shipped at all, nevermind shipping at the quality we did. our narrative team were heroes." [source]

Jo Berry: "Having seen the circumstances under which they were trying to create... I mean, I only came in right at the end and it was still -- holy shit." [source]

Brian J. Audette, rt'ing the article: "Reposting without comment except: I refute that we made a bad or compromised game. We made the best version of what we released, warts and all. I'm damn proud of it and the team. We couldn't have made a _better_ Dragon Age, only a _different_ one." [source] "Still the best reviewed game I ever worked on in a 25+ year career." [source]

John Epler: "my career up to this point has been largely motivated by spite and the good news is it seems I am in no danger of running out" [source]

John Epler: "still the truest thing I've ever posted" [source] John Epler [prior post]: "sorry one last DA thing, i just want to say, once again, that the team did some incredibly herculean shit to get this game done. they deserve all the kudos and credit in the world. i've never seen people work so hard or care so much. grateful to know them all." [source]

Also:

User: "I guess my big question is why did the game get an 83 on metacritic with all these problems." Jason Schreier: "Sometimes reviewers just don't align with general reception. Fallout New Vegas got an 84 while Fallout 4 got an 87" [source]

User: "Christ. Second major BioWare game in a row to inspire an investigative "what the hell went wrong?" piece from Schreier." Jason Schreier: "third" [source]

A user queried the part of the article that stated the Mass Effect team overhauling DA:TV's ending, mentioning that this seems unfair to say.

Jason Schreier: "Well, the ME team steered it and, most importantly, got the resources to make it happen. But I see your point and obviously in game dev, credit is always a funky thing." [source]

Following the Suicide Squad post above:

User: "the difference being that suicide squad's live service push was determined by studio leadership, whereas the dragon age decisions came from outside bioware right?" Jason Schreier: "I don't think it's quite that simple. If you run a studio owned by a company whose execs are coming in with powerpoint presentations about how live-service is the future, it might be "your choice" what kind of game to pitch but what's really going to secure you a budget?" [source]

[morbidlcve]

bucky barnes dating a book girlie (a headcannon):

a/n: this idea came to me scrolling through my fyp.

wc: 0.7k

pairings: Bucky barnes x reader! gf

cw: brief mention of loss, fluff.

Dating a reader girl for Bucky definitely means more downtime. There are days when you would like to go out and do things, but most days/ evenings are spent at home with him filing reports, doing meetings, while you sit reading your book. Bucky, knowing that one of your love languages is quality time, means just sitting in the comfort of each other, whilst each of you do your own thing. Bucky can be watching TV while you are snuggled up to his side, his arm around you, reading your book. He would never admit it, but it's the quiet domesticated life he always wanted. 

There have been countless times where Bucky has come home to you crying over the events that took place in your book. The first time it happened he looked at you for a moment slightly amused before he wrapped his arm around your waist, pulling you effortlessly into his lap. He pressed kisses to the side of your head, trying not to find the situation at hand funny. He closed your book, careful to place the bookmark in the page you had been reading before setting it down on the coffee table. “It’s just a story my love, it’s okay.” he would whisper, rubbing gentle circles against your back. Over time, he learns that the human brain is unable to separate fiction to reality. When he does, he's extra attentive towards you

Bucky loves to spoil you. He takes just about any opportunity that he can to do so. He’ll bring you flowers home with him from work every other week, keep your perfumes stocked up, your shampoo, you name it. But he loves taking you book shopping. It’s his favourite pastime, when it's only because he loves seeing your face light up when you spot one of your favourite authors' new releases on the shelves, or talking his poor head off about what books you've read, pointing to them on the shelf, what books you liked and didn't like. He encourages you to get the ones you want, and without batting an eye, he pays for them, knowing that your smile is waiting for him when he looks back at you. There have been times when you have spent hours walking around the bookstore, and he gladly walks around with you. 

Your favourite thing about him, though? Is when you’ve finished a book. He takes his time asking you about it, what your favourite things were, and what you enjoyed. He lets you talk his ear off with your opinions on the story with your legs across his lap, his hand stroking the lengths of your calves. 

One time he walked into the little library room, you didn't outwardly claim as yours since you moved in, but has been ever since. He noticed that all your shelves were full and there were books piling on the shelves and on the floor. You were out with some of your family that day, so he took it upon himself to go to Ikea and buy you more bookshelves in the same make and model of the ones you already have and build more for you. Once he was finished, he laid the homeless books on the floor in front of your new shelves, knowing you like to organise them in your own little way. 

Bucky goes above and beyond for your birthday. There was a time when you woke up to see the exact amount of books to your age all wrapped up (to the best of his ability) waiting for you to open them, along with other book trinkets you had in your basket, which he sneakily screenshotted on your phone and airdropped to his so he can get them for you. 

Having a reader girlfriend means catching you falling asleep with your book in your hand more often than one would think. He could just get home from work and see you passed out in bed, on the couch, on the floor with your book in hand. Careful so you don’t lose your page, Bucky would slide the bookmark in for you and tuck you into bed or better yet, carry you to bed. 

There are also times when you don't sleep. “One more chapter” you would say, both of you knowing damn well that that is a complete and utter lie. It would be morning time when Bucky would wake up and catch you still reading. Later on that evening, you would pass out early with your head in his lap. 

When you can't focus on reading, Bucky will offer to read it for you. Your head on his lap, legs in his lap, head on his chest. He would pick up where you left off and read until you fall asleep or it’s time to do something. 

[c00ki3sandcr3am]

Lumiran Season

Rafayel x MC (Unnamed) | Smut +18

A/n: Heyy lads fans! My friend and I were talking about how in one of the cards it depicts Rafayel going trough some kind of heat. It got me thinking about a lot of different things so I made this one shot! Please don’t read if you are under 18, and I hope you enjoy as I don’t usually write smut.

Tags: Heat!Rafayel, (semi) submissive Rafayel, (slightly) teasing bottom MC, afab MC, female + male genitalia, multiple penises, dual penetration

Word Count: 3.5k

The night had fallen not too long ago, the breeze by the water cool as it wafts from the open balcony doors, pushing the thin curtains, though the cool air stung as it blew onto Rafayel’s skin. His cheeks were flushed, uncharacteristically dark, and the heat across his body was agony, like a fever but over every orifice of his skin. It was his time of the month, the dreaded day when he could barely contain himself, an unquenchable thirst filling him, his mouth salivating with need, and his body stiff in anticipation. He only envied humans for one reason: their ability to keep in control, never to have to feel as though stimulation alone is not enough. 

Rafayel couldn’t do much; he couldn’t paint while his angry members pressed against his tight jeans, he could barely even walk without the slight friction of his clothes making his members leak. He spent all day in bed, the side of his face pressed against his plush pillows, body completely naked, yet dripping with sweat, and his hands working simultaneously on his members. It didn’t matter how many times, how long, if he used his hands or toys, or even how he jerked off, every release only made him harder. By night, he was desperate, practically crying into his pillows as he orgasms once more, his members still hard and standing tall. He’s an absolute mess, his lower stomach, pelvis, and the top of his thighs are covered in his cum, dried and wet. It was unsightly to him, but he couldn’t help himself. What was he supposed to do?

MC arrived at a terrible time, forced to pull Rafayel from his mansion to the art show he was supposed to be at. She thought that maybe he didn’t care enough, which is expected from him, but as she opened the front door with the house key he gave her, and she saw that all the lights in the house were off, she was confused. A bit of anxiety rose from her stomach to her chest, worried that something might have happened to him. Though the two aren’t exactly together, they are close enough that she worries about his well-being. She carefully closes the front door behind her and walks further into the house, her shoes discarded at the door, her light and calm voice calls out for him.

“Rafayel?”

Her voice echoed throughout the halls, but no answer. 

Rafayel shot up slightly at the sound of her voice, though quiet beyond the door, it reached his ears. His hands stop, the warmth burning up his body once more as he stops the stimulation. Rafayel gulps, teeth gnawing at his bottom lip as he thinks for a moment, Why is she here? What do I do? I can’t let her see me like this. At a time, perhaps long ago, he would feel comfortable to let her see him like this, he would invite it actually, and she could help him. But this her is different; they aren’t as close as they once were, he couldn’t allow her to see him like this. Though he told himself to move, go into the bathroom so she couldn’t just bust in, his body was taut, practically a statue in bed. It wasn’t only because his heat has warped his brain temporarily, but deep inside himself he wants her to see him. Needs her to, actually. He wasn’t sure how much longer he could stand yearning for her. His senses were clouded by his own lust, unable to exactly gauge where she was in the house, but the anticipation thumped in his chest and tingled down to his toes, drool sliding down to his jaw from his open mouth, further presenting his thirst.

MC approached the door with apprehension. She had checked all the regular areas Rafayel would usually be at, yet he was nowhere to be found. She stood outside of his bedroom door for just a moment, trying to listen to see if he was in a compromising position, like getting changed, but all she could hear was his breathing. MC rolled her eyes, of course, he’s asleep. She thought. He didn’t really care about anything but himself most of the time it seemed like. With an exasperated expression and a deep sigh, she opens the door, ready to give him a scolding. She didn’t really react at first, still so convinced that he’s just sleeping, that when she saw his sweaty, messy, body completely spread on top of the strewn sheets, and members standing tall and leaking from the head, she stopped. MC stares at him for a second, her expression still holding frustration, but flattens slightly, shocked for a moment, before quickly changing to intrigue.

“Rafayel…”

Her mouth was open as she tried to say something else. It wasn’t that the scene was so obscene that she was shocked, it’s actually a rather pleasant sight, it’s the fact of what is there to say? Why speak at all when you can just act?

The sound of his own name spoken in her light tone, falling from the parting of those beautiful lips, nearly sent him to another orgasm alone. Rafayel’s purple eyes stared at MC, eyes dilated from the pleasure that the pink in the center was barely visible, his naked chest rose and fell with each heavy breath. He snaps to his senses for a moment, his head turns to the side, looking towards the open balcony as he lets a shaky breath escape him.

“MC…You-you shouldn’t be here…”

He spoke with a light, timid tone. It didn’t catch MC off guard at all, that timid, pouty tone is all too familiar to her, she notices that his fallen walls were building back up right in front of her. She steps into the dark room, the moon giving all the lighting needed, the shadows just as sensual as the atmosphere around them. She closes the door behind her, eyes watching Rafayel continue his timid act, as if it’ll make her go away. She slowly approaches him, her feet quietly padding against the hard floor, a small smirk on her full lips as she feels herself become hotter in her lower stomach.

“You are the one who shouldn’t be here…You know you have somewhere to be.”

Her tone is teasing, yet holds a matter-of-fact edge. She stops at the foot of the bed, tilting her head as Rafayel continues to deny her his gaze. She crawls onto the bed, the mattress dipping under her weight, causing Rafayel to blush and gulp, which doesn't go unnoticed by MC, a wider smile stretching across her lips. She sits on her knees, leaning down her hands lightly trailing up Rafayel’s bare legs, and her head hovers just over his left leg, ready to kiss across the skin. Rafayel’s shaved legs twitched, a gasp escaping him as just the mere touch of her cool hands brought him more pleasure than what he felt all day. Rafayel looks back towards her, eyes looking down, seeing her head press against his leg, lips kissing up from his ankle to his calf. His breath was taken from his as their eyes lock, MC’s tongue dragging up from his knee to the start of his thigh, her body moving in closer towards him.

“Is this why you didn’t come to the event?...Because you were being naughty? That’s pretty shameful of you.”

MC’s voice held a dominianting tone, one that is unlike her usual sassiness, it catches Rafayel off guard, a mix between another gasp and a moan vibrating in his throat and passing his parted lips. MC gives him a teasing look, her eyes dark and lusty as her body inches up further, her face now right next to his members. This is not the first time she’s come face to face with his…unique feature, even the first time it didn’t disgust her, it made her more excited. She had spent countless nights wondering what it would be like to have both inside her at once, the thought as tantalizing as it actually happening. MC could tell the Rafayel was a little gone, his body trembling against the mattress, one hand gripping the sheets as the other was over his head, gripping his pillow, mouth parted as he panted, and his purple eyes full of anticipation. He is abnormally quiet; by now, he would have made some sassy remark or would have found a way to make her go away, but not tonight. MC could tell that there was something special going on tonight.

If he doesn’t want to talk, then she won’t talk either. After all, there isn’t really much room for words anyway, only actions. She reaches a hand out, her head resting against his thigh, her fingers curling around both of his members. Though her fingers could barely hold onto both, it makes the two appendages press tightly together, and as her hand jerks up and down slowly, it makes the members rub together as well. Rafayel moans, high and desperate, as the feel of her hand on him, her fingers tickling the skin of his shafts, precum dribbling from the head down to her fingers. Rafayel’s body is pulled taut, his bucking up into her hand before buckling back down, the action repeating. Hot breaths escape him, his stomach tightening, as a few tears prickle in the corners of his eyes, brows arched up in pleasure, his sweaty hair sticking to his forehead, and his half-lidded eyes stare at MC as she works.

The pleasure that fills Rafayel is too great, toe-curling, as MC only works her hand faster at his response. Yet, it’s not enough. Why would it be? His thirst was so great, too great, that simply jerking off was not going to help him. He needed more. He needed to feel the warmth of being inside a woman, this woman in particular. Rafayel could feel something inside of him snap, while his body felt as heavy as an anvil previously, a surge of animalistic desire shot through him, a feeling he hadn’t felt in a long time. Rafayel sits up from his spot, the pillow dented from where he lay for hours, his hands reaching to grip MC’s wrist, pausing her ministrations on his members, his purple eyes looking down at her as she looks up at him, confused.

“What’s wrong? You’re obviously desperate enough for this.”

MC states. She holds her confused expression as she rises up to her knees, staring at him, face to face. She can see Rafayel huffing, his fingers holding her wrist tightly as his eyes look down to his lap. She notices that he’s trying to hold back, probably because they’ve never gone all the way before. She wonders how he can be so out of control, yet in control at the same time. Rafayel can feel his desire heating up faster than he can control, heating up his entire body once more, burning him, but he didn’t want to do anything without her consent. Taking what he wanted, regardless if she feels good, without making sure it’s okay first, didn’t feel right, especially since he will completely ravage her with no regard. He gulps deeply, his purple eyes looking back up into MC’s obvious lust in his gaze, his intentions not at all hidden.

“MC…I need help…Please, help me…”

MC can feel a smirk stretch upon her full lips for just a moment, before she puts on a fake sympathetic look, her lips pursing out ever so slightly. She pulls her hands from his grip and moves to lie back onto the bed, against the soft pillows, her hands grabbing his biceps and pulling him down on top of her. Her hands trail up from the lean, yet muscular, arms to his back, finger trailing down his spine, causing him to shiver ever so slightly.

“Oh, you poor thing…Of course I’ll help you…What do you want me to do?”

She spoke to him like you would to a hurt child, pretending to coddle him as her fingers continued to caress him. Rafayel lets out a shaky breath, his arms on either side of her head as he lifts himself up, his body hovering over hers. He looks down at her, his mouth still open as he lets out quick puffs, a yearning expression on his face.

“Just…Just let me have you…”

Rafayle’s voice is low, barely raised above a whisper. His purple eyes search MC’s, a silent plea as his hands curl up into fists against the sheets. MC let out a soft breath, her hands pressing fully against his back, her nails pressing ever so slightly into his pale skin, leaving small marks from under them.

“Of course. When did you think you couldn’t have me?”

At her words, Rafayel lowers himself closer, their noses touching as his head tilts to the side, taking her full lips against his. A soft, wet sound reaches their ears as their lips connect, Rafayel breathing into MC’s mouth as her lips part for him, his hot tongue sliding into her mouth. A soft moan vibrates in Rafayel’s throat as their tongues touch, the taste of her mouth across his taste buds. His tongue glides across every surface of her own, sliding and pressing the muscles together as heavy breaths fan across both of their skin, MC’s fingers digging a bit deeper into his back.

Rafayel, fully prepared to stay in that kiss forever, pulls away to allow her to catch her breath. MC’s cheeks slightly flushed, she breathes heavily, her chest rising and falling as her lust-filled eyes stare up and Rafayel as they open. She can feel her arousal growing, a heat spreading from her lower stomach to her between her legs, a familiar wetness slicking up the sensitive area. MC removes her hands from Rafayel’s back, her fingers gently pulling down the strap of her dress off her shoulder. Rafayel notices and quickly helps with the removal of her dress, one hand pulling down the other sleeve as his other hand holds his body up. 

He pulls the dress down from her chest to her waist, her breasts covered by her bra, though a peek of her hardened nipples from under the thick fabric can be seen. Rafayel’s long fingers trail down her sides, continuing to pull the dress down past her waist and to her legs, where MC kicks the dress off her legs, the light fabric falling to the ground. 

Rafayel gulps at the sight of her body, an image tantalizing to him as her supple skin waits for the touch of his hands and lips. Rafayel leans back down, eyes closing as their lips connect once more, the kiss full of hunger and desperation, the heat from his body flaying him, great enough for MC to feel. MC wraps her arms around him once more, fingering holding onto his skin tightly, causing the flesh to stretch under her strong grip.

One of Rafayel’s hands trails down her stomach, causing it to clench as his skin runs over the sensitive navel, to her panties. He had no patiences left to fully remove the thin fabric, instead moving it to the side, wedging it in the crease between her thigh and pelvis. He pulls his lips away, head looking down between them, trying to catch a glimpse of her wetness, though his position denies him the gaze, only furthering his desperateness.

Swallowing thickly, his hand grips one of his members, the head glistening with his precum, a small bead escaping the slit. He lets out a shaky breath, as he lines himself up, his hips snapping forwards with vigor, bottoming out completely inside of her. MC hisses in pain, her slick enough to allow him to go in so quickly, yet not quite prepared. Her thighs spread a bit wider, allowing his pelvis to press fully against her’s and giving his waist some room. Her heels press against his lower back, toes  curling as she huffs, little moans escaping her parted lips as she looks up at him with half-lidded eyes.

“Can…I can move, right?’

Rafayel questions, his voice deep and breathy. The feeling of her heat and her wetness coating his cock was enough to cause his own toes to curl, his brows arched up in pleasure as his eyes search her’s. MC huffs, feeling herself get used to his size, her tight insides stretching around his, becoming more comfortable, her hot core slobbering on his cock coaxing his member to dive deeper inside. MC nods lazily, her eyes clouding over as she feels him start to thrust, his head hitting far inside her, soft squelching sounds filling the quiet noise, along with their moans. Rafayel moans desperately, his voice higher in octave as his moans pass him, his head hanging above MC’s, eyes closed. The pleasure he is feeling is good, by only half good, his other cock uncomfortably hitting against her skin, the air leaving a slight, unpleasant, tingling sensation begging to be put inside her wet core.

Rafayel pauses his hips, the squelching silencing as he huffs, his cocks twitching slightly in anticipation. He opens his eyes, looking down at MC, who looked like she could barely hold a thought, her face red with a deep blush and her full lips slightly wet with saliva.

“C-Can two fit?”

He questions, his voice slightly hoarse as he takes a deep breath. He knows they can, she’s been on the receiving end of his dual cocks and has taken them happily. But she’s not exactly the same person she was. What if it’s too tight? It feels too tight for him. Her walls are clamping down on his member, enough to squish it, and it’s only the one.

MC looks shocked at his question, flustered even, all of her air getting caught in her throat at the question. Of course, she has played with them both before, with her hands, but they’ve never been both inside her, anywhere. How was she supposed to know the answer?

“Mhm, yes, just put them in and…keep going.”

She answered, of course not confident at all in her decree, yet she was desperate enough that she would allow anything at this point. Rafayel nods as a huff of air escapes him, cheeks and ears red with a deep blush, somehow embarrassed of what he is about to do. His hand reaches down once more, other arm holding him steady, his fingers wrapping around his other cock, all the sensations on this one are heightened, more sensitive than the other one already buried deep into her,

Rafayel lets out a gentle whine, fingers trembling at the pleasurable sensitivity. He lines his other cock up, the appendage being slightly skinnier in girth, and wedges it between his other cock and the opening of her core. He uses his hand to keep either of them from slipping out, his hips pushing forward, MC’s opening stretching a bit more. MC takes a sharp breath, a mix between a cry and a moan leaving her lips a the stretch feeling slightly unnatural. Her nails dig into his back, clawing down the middle of his shoulder, her eyes slightly tearing up. Yet there is ecstasy on her face, a trail of drool sliding down from the corner of her mouth.

Rafayel moves his hips, snapping them forward and back, his movement becoming less sloppy once he insures both of his cocks will stay in, the appendages buried far into her. Rafayel’s hands clench at the sheets, his head leaning down to rest against her shoulder, whines escaping his lips as his hips continue to rock.

The headboard of the bed taps against the wall, the squelching noise filling up the sound once more, only a little louder. Rafayel moans along with MC, her wet insides clenching against him with each thrust, the dual penetration stretching her all the way through, and her g-spot rubbed against twice as frequent.

Rafayel kisses against her hot shoulder, his teen gently nibbling at the skin. He breathes heavily against her, hands pushing deeper into the bed as he snaps his hips faster, feeling his climax come quickly. Too quickly for his liking, yet he’s ready to let go. MC urges him to continue, the uncomfortable stretch now feeling better as if she molded herself for him, her hips pushing back against him, trying to get him as deep as possible. Her stomach clenches at the feeling of her heat rising under her navel, giving way for the oragams to come.

Rafayel works into her deeper, quicker, the king bed slightly trembling under the movements, his breathing only getting heavier as he feels the suffocating heat melt off of him. He lets out one last long whine as he releases, feeling MC clench against him squirting out her orgasm, coating his cocks and his pelvis. Rafayel completely lowers himself onto MC, his cocks staying nice and warm inside of her core, cheek pressed against her shoulder, feeling her chest rise and fall quickly.

“I can’t believe you saw me like this…”

He pouts softly, cheeks and ears bright red once more. MC was supposed to stay his Miss Bodyguard until the time was right…   

[avenging-fandoms]

Teach Me - Joel Miller

Summary: requested by anonymous- hi bby i hope you're okay! rqst maybe a Joel teaching a reader how to carve wood, but she gets distracted by his hands and how damn beautiful (hot) he is, and optionally things get dirty 🤭 The reader finds Joel making Ellie's birthday gift and asks to help. When he accepts, she doesn't realize how difficult it is to pay attention.

Content warnings: smut; oral sex. reader's age is mentioned because as much as i love an age gap, joel wouldn't date someone v young. i would write an age gap fic if requested doe

18+ only.

please like and reblog!

divider gif credit: @enchanthings-a

You don't bother to knock when you reach the Miller residence, whistling twice in a high pitch to make your presence known when your boot hits the wooden floors.

"I'm up here, Y/N." The wooden stairs squeak under your feet and you follow Joel's voice up to his room. You hear sawing and furrow your eyebrows and push his bedroom door open. "Uh, can I come in?"

He calls you over with his head. "Close the door how you found it before, please." He goes back to his sawing and you put the door back to being ajar. You spin on your heels and take the opportunity with his back to you to admire his room. A few guitars rest on stands begging to be played next to his neatly made bed.

You make your way over to Joel and notice him sawing a bone. "I'm scared to ask what you're doing," you stand next to him on the left and he laughs.

"I'm making Ellie her birthday gift. I want to teach her guitar, so I'm making her her own. I'm finishing it up today, I'm carving a moth into it." He takes the bone out of the clamp and sets it on the table and you notice the almost finished guitar his body was hiding. "Did you need something?"

"The council just got out of a meeting and I wanted to see what my other favorite Miller brother was doing," you circle around him to the other side and Joel gives a closed lip half smirk. "And now I'm very intrigued in what you're doing. You're going to carve the wood?" He nods. "You just know how to do that?"

He takes the cut up wood out and lays it on the table to sketch out where to trim. "You forget I was a carpenter some time ago, I could do this blindfolded."

You watch his hands sketch smooth sides and you bite the inside of your lip. His nose whistles as he leans over the table, hand flat to hold the wood down and you inhale. "Can you teach me how to carve? I can carve a scrap piece so I don't ruin Ellie's gift," you smile and stuff your hands in your back pockets.

Joel looks at you with a gentle stare. "You can't carve the scrap pieces," he wipes the wood and your shoulders drop, Joel standing and grabbing two pairs of safety goggles. "You can help me with her gift." You happily grab a pair and slide them on, Joel grabbing the first tool. “I’m going to help you with this, okay? There's a light stencil for you to follow."

You nod and stand in front of the guitar with Joel behind you, his body closing the gap with his front against your back and putting his arms around you, guiding your hands where to hold.

You know it's important to listen to his safety instructions, but that's hard to do when his hands on top of yours make them disappear, his ribcage squishing against you then releasing when he breathes.

"Alright, you got this, let's do it." He looks over your shoulder and grips your hands and you both watch you carefully trace the lines, sawdust flying around and catching in your hair. He stops the machine and brushes your hair out of your face for you and you shiver.

The machine starts again and you lean closer, Joel's hand hovering over your back as he gives you some free rein. "Holy shit, I'm doing it!"

"I knew you could, finish the outline." You turn back to the guitar and he pulls his hands away, watching you complete the outline perfectly. "Good girl, that looks amazing."

You almost drop the tool as you hand it to Joel, heart racing at the nickname. You drag over a stool and sit near the head of the workbench, eyes trained on his hands making the moth come to life.

The machine shushes itself to sleep and Joel blows off the sawdust. Your shoulder touches his arm as you look at the moth, gawking at the picture. "You are so impressive, Joel Miller."

He gives an embarrassed shy shrug and pulls off his safety goggles and takes yours off your face. Metal clicks in his hand when he digs it out of his pocket, holding your wrist and dropping metal pegs in your hands.

"I'm going to put in the turning pegs, can you put the string posts in please? I'll be up here with you to keep an eye on you, hm?"

"This is so fun, thanks for letting me help, Joel," you smile and lean over the table a bit to screw in the posts. You look up to ask Joel how you were doing, but your eyes magnetize to his fingers twisting in the pegs.

Joel's fingers rapidly spin the peg in place and your mind wanders when he moves on to the next one.

"15, do you remember your 15th birthday?" Joel breaks the silence and you sigh with a slight chuckle.

"It was almost 20 years ago, but it feels like 100 some days and 5 the others. Depends on how much I move," you joke and Joel snorts. You answer the question with your fingers not even moving anymore, eyes trained on his hands.

His curly grey hair flops on his forehead and his doe eyes train on the peg. He glances to check on you and sees you staring and gives you a look. "I thought you were here to help me, you're just starin'."

His words snap you out of it and you back up, putting the posts carefully on the table. "Sorry, I.." Joel stands and sets his pegs next to the guitar, hovering above you slightly.

"Didn't anyone ever tell you it's rude to stare?"

"I was just admiring how you work, Joel," you mumble and he smirks, stepping towards you and your eyes can’t leave his chest.

"Then why are your cheeks so red, sweet girl?" His head bows and brushes his beard against your forehead.

“I was watching your fingers work,” you mumble, pressing your head into him. Joel inhales the top of your head before caressing your neck, tilting your head up and fanning his breath over your lips.

You came to Jackson 2 years before Joel and Ellie arrived, already finding a spot on the council a year in. You were reliable, honest, and brought great ideas forward that always benefited everyone. Joel was cautious around you but because his brother always sang your praises, he knew he'd be able to trust you and it didn't take him long to.

"Do you want me to stop?" He whispers with his lips touching yours and your stomach twists for more. You stand on your toes a bit and close the gap and Joel's arms completely engulf you in his body. His large palms rub your neck, down your back and smoothing over your ass.

"I never want you to stop, Joel," you breathe between words and he chuckles, backing you up to his bed. A huff leaves your chest when you hit the bed, he doesn't follow but instead puts his hands on his hips, drinking in the sight of you.

He reaches his right hand down and presses it to your chest, your unbuttoned flannel showing your tank top underneath. Joel kneels on the bed with his knees keeping your right leg in place as his hand explores your body, his fingers pushing in the top of the tank and humming when he feels your nipple grow under his digits.

Whimpers fall from your lip and your chest pushes closer to Joel, silently begging for more. "You stare and you're impatient, do I have to straighten your pretty ass out?"

Joel pulls your breasts out and bites down as his mouth finds your nipple. His tongue flicks against the hard, sensitive bud and your fingers grip his hair, moaning his name as he leaves his mark on your skin.

He moves his attention to your other nipple, his right hand trailing down your body to the top of your jeans. "Can I touch you?" Joel whispers against your jaw and you nod with a desperate growl when you kiss him again.

Joel unbuttons your jeans impatiently and pushes them down a bit and feathers the pads against your soaked cotton underwear, a sigh from his nose heating your top lip. "Fuck, Joel, please,"

Your quiet pleas were enough to make him push his hand in your underwear, his middle finger collecting your juices as he rubs up and down with your hips following. Joel sits on the bed next to you on his hip, left leg on the bed and the right one crossed on top and he pushes you back onto the bed when you try to follow. He pulls your jeans completely off and throwing your underwear in a different spot behind his shoulder.

"Oh my stars," he mumbles when his left hand holds your leg and gives himself a better view of you. You prop up your left leg and Joel leans against it with his chin on your knee, his hand securing your leg in place. Joel pushes his right hand from your ankle to your knee, down your thigh and opening your leg to rub your clit. "Look at you, so wet, all for me." Joel kisses your thigh and you twist your hips towards his mouth, a low chuckle coming from his chest. "Oh, we'll get there, sweetheart. You just need to be patient."

Your fingers nearly rip holes in his bed sheets when Joel slides his middle and ring finger in to you. "Yes, Joel, fuck!" Your hand slaps on his bicep and grab his shirt as the pace quickens, his fingers pulling out and curling in enough to hit the right spot.

Joel knees your leg behind his when he kneels on the bed, hovering his body over you as his left hand holds your other thigh down. You twist your body and roll your eyes back and moan Joel's name as your orgasm fires up in your belly.

"Come on, baby, let me see how pretty you look when you cum," he grunts and releases the grip on your thigh to rub your clit as his fingers fuck you. Your body curls and nails scratch down his arm as your orgasm warms you from head to toe. "Fuck, look at you," he growls and rubs a hand up and down your torso, pulling his fingers out and licking them clean.

Your cheeks immediately feel hot and Joel chuckles at your reaction. He kisses the back of your hands when you cover your face and you peek between your fingers. You pull your hands away and Joel leans down to kiss your swollen lips, fingers teasing your inner thighs and you instinctively spread your legs.

“Joel, please,” you whimper in his mouth and he slides his fingers into you again, a long loud moan falling from your lips onto his tongue.

Joel pumps his fingers fast this time, pulling away to watch your face. You squeeze your eyes shut as his thumb starts to rub your clit, and you feel his body move away from over you. Your body jolts when you feel his beard tickle your inner thighs, pushing your hips closer to his mouth.

A low chuckle comes from Joel's chest and he pulls your hips up, wrapping his arm around your thigh and leaning on that leg. His right hand roughly shoves your other leg down, using his fingers to spread your pussy and he groans mumbling something under his breath before he's gone.

Your hand slaps over your face and nails dig into your flesh as Joel's fingers pull away and his tongue takes their place. His lips help him take in every drop of your wetness, giving himself a treat before the reward to come. His tongue moves up to your clit and his fingers push into you again, his left hand pushing your leg to press your knee to chest.

“Joel, fuck, fuck, I can’t..” you can’t control your hips as they move violently against his mouth, a deep sigh broken up from Joel’s nose when your body jolts away then follows again.

“Stay still,” he mumbles and slaps your thigh, forcing you to drop your leg and whimper with hair sticking your your forehead.

“Joel.. please..” Moans were extinct, only cries of begging singing out of your mouth.

“Give it to me, sweetheart, I wanna taste your orgasm.” Joel's dirty words push you over the edge and your legs squeeze around him, shaking violently and yanking his hair. "I'm not done."

Tears fall as well as your bed to the bed when Joel licks every inch of you clean, sitting up and leaning on the bed on his knees. Your arm covers your eyes as you catch your breath, feeling tiny hairs from his mustache tickle your arm.

"Are you alright?" Joel lays next to you and you roll into his chest, listening to the laugh in his chest. "I hope I didn't scare you or nothin', just been thinkin' about doing that to you every since I've seen you."

You pull your face out of his chest and lay your head on his bicep, tracing the scar on his temple. "You could never scare me, Miller." You kiss his nose and Joel wraps a strong arm around your back to bring you close. He kisses the top of your head, draping a light blanket over your body before rubbing your back underneath your tank top.

"We can rest for 10, but you did offer to help with the guitar," he whispers with his lips dragging on your ear lobe. You smile and crack your eyes open, kissing him a few times. "Okay, maybe 15."

[snowdewdreams]

Well now, with chapter 4 out, it looks like we have the truth now! Or at least a lot more of it.

The prophecy really IS that detailed.

There must have been a line somewhere alluding to Susie and Noelle's ferris wheel ride, hence how Ralsei knew it happened without even being there. Of course, this further reinforces another popular theory I've seen people discuss.

Ralsei appears a bit confused when the ferris wheel ride doesn't happen in the Weird Route. After all, it was likely fated to occur in the Prophecy!

So, do this mean that the Weird Route is us breaking free from the predestined narrative in the most aggressive and disturbing manner possible? It's very likely.

After chapters 3 and 4 released, I saw a lot of theories speculate that the Weird Route is us trying to brute force are way back into the Prophecy's path. Which is definitely a possibility! However, I feel this odd Ralsei moment in chapter 2 gives a lot of credence to the Weird Route being us diverting from the Prophecy. There's also this new dialogue from Ralsei at the end of chapter 4 if you take the Weird Route:

"What would that be...?"

"If there was something else, what would that be...?"

"And how do we know"

If you haven't seen it, he says this directly after wishing there was only one ending. And seeing the dread in his eyes, I can't help but feel even more mortified for what's to come on the route.

The Prophecy may be a cold, rigid, and predetermined path with some tragedy at the end, but at least you can take some solace in knowing what's to come and brace for it as best you can.

With the Weird Route? There's no telling what horrors can emerge from the darkness of the unknown. The fear of uncertainty and of untamed chaos.

Imagine how terrifying this must be from Ralsei's perspective? Knowing that something is off track and not having any idea where the train is headed. If he gets some sense of purpose from being a guide to Kris and Susie, then he might even be questioning his self worth as both a darkner and a friend.

I really want to give Ralsei some nice pastries or something, poor guy is going to go through absolute hell in the rest of the Weird Route.

When I was playing Deltarune a while ago, I was doing some backtracking so that I could recruit all the monsters when I happened upon this line of dialogue:

You get this from inspecting that particular ferris wheel graphic, found in one of the areas where you travel with Noelle for a bit.

At first, there's nothing out of the ordinary with what Ralsei is saying. However, it's very strange that he has knowledge of Susie and Noelle's ferris wheel ride to begin with — he was not present for it and, to my understanding, Susie never explicitly explained what happened when she was alone with Noelle. To make this dialogue even odder, Ralsei is blushing in his portrait, suggesting he may even be aware of the event's intimacy.

It's common knowledge in many theorist's circles and to those who pay close attention to the game's writing that Ralsei clearly knows more than he let's on. This moment to me implies that he either has some strange omnipotence or knowledge of how future events may play out, which raises even more questions about that prophecy of his — how detailed is it? Is it some kind of divine foresight that predicts events that are fated to happen?

Regardless, Ralsei's enigmatic background and nature are one of my favorite parts of his character and I look forward to learning more about him in the future chapters.

[ella423]

Liam Mairi x Female Reader

Attention

Summary: When your boyfriend seems too busy looking after another girl, your bitterness seems to have a mind and a plan of its own. But will it backfire?

Warnings: Smut, mentions of blood, angst

A/N: This has to be my favourite story so far, and it's pretty long too! It's heavily inspired by the amazing Tight Black Leathers, written by the talented @scorpioriesling, who's fanfics are what inspired me to write my own. Go check out her work!

I watch as Liam gracefully climbs down Deigh's leg, the muscles in his arms rippling as he lands firmly on the ground.

You aren't going to go to loverboy? My dragon, Stratia asks, as I stay motionless atop her, observing Liam.

"No I want to see what he does."

Liam pats Deigh's foreleg and they appear to exchange a few words. He turns...

My eyes narrow....

.... And heads off in Tairn's direction, to where Violet has just slid down his foreleg.

I release a breath I didn't realize I had been holding. Why did I think he would come towards me?

Who am I anyway?

Not like I'm his girlfriend, who he used to walk back with after Flight Field, and pretty much everywhere else, up until exactly 20 days ago, when Liam's 'brother', the almighty indispensable Xaden Riorson decided that a 21 year old grown woman, Violet Sorrengail, who has bonded the most powerful dragon of our year, needed 24/7 protection by a boy who had a girlfriend.

Give me the clearance and I'll char him. Never liked him anyway, Stratia grumbles in my head.

"Stratia."

Don't tell me you still love that cheating bastard. He's been practically ignoring you for days now.

"He hasn't cheated on me!"

How do you know that? Not like he's been around you at all. Or even bothered to come find you. Even after you've been giving him weird looks.

"I-..... He's not cheating on me Stratia, he would never.. he's not like that..."

But she isn't wrong either, I think, as I climb down her foreleg, and walk back alone to my room. Since Liam's been assigned as Violet’s bodyguard, he's been following her around all the time. Violet and my timetable is slightly different, and Liam's was changed so he could be with her in every class. Liam no longer has time to spar with me because he trains with Violet now, and I can't do that time because it is my reserved spot in the Scribe Quadrant Library to study History. Liam and I always used to spend the night in each other's rooms. In the past 20 days, for atleast half of those nights, I've waited for him to return to his room, but fallen asleep by the time he would return. And the other nights when I expected him to come to mine, he never showed up, except maybe once or twice. The only time we see each other is during our Squad's common classes.

And initially, it was just mutual pining on both our sides. We used to kiss each other extra hard when we were around each other. I'd playfully mention how I 'didn't get my full body massage the night before', or how my neck seemed 'too spotless' lately. But it gradually became serious. The distance was genuinely depressing. And I missed my boyfriend. Missed his casual touches, our constant whispering and talking and flirting, his playful kisses for seemingly no reason, his deep, confident voice telling me how gorgeous I was, his beautiful blue eyes looking at me even when he thought I wasn't aware, his dimples and that arrogant smirk....

I barely realize when I reach my room. I yank my door open, and slam it shut.

This is ridiculous, absolutely ridiculous. I love Liam, and I know he loves me, even though he hasn't been around to say it as much.

I yank my closet door open, shoving aside my spare uniform unnecessarily aggressively, as I sift through the clothes at the back for some traning wear to change into.

It was absolutely demeaning, shameful and downright disrespectful for Xaden to assign Liam, of all the people, in this bloody place, as Violet’s bodyguard. How would he feel if Violet was suddenly asked to shadow Dain all the time?

I growl in frustration when I can't find the tank top I'm looking for. I chuck aside more clothes, carelessly tossing things around.

And Liam! That useless toerag! Doesn't he have a goddamn mouth? Is he not noticing that he hasn't so much as slept beside his girlfriend more than once or twice in almost a month? Or does he not care at all?

I pull back from my futile search, and kick my closet door. I barely feel a sting in my foot, but a little bit of my anger seems to drain out.

I can't seem to find my bloody training wear. But I have to be down for sparring class with Professor Emetterio in a short whle.

My eyes fall upon my sports bra, hanging from a hook on the closet door. Sighing, I pull it off and quickly change into it.

This will have to do for today, I guess. I move over to my tiny vanity mirror to see if it is decent enough.

Nothing overly revealing, but it does give my chest a good shape, the dip just low enough to..... tease.

Hmmm.

I tie my hair back into a tight ponytail, and double knot to make sure it stays. I don't normally make such tight styles, but I can't deny that it looks, striking? It makes my cheekbones much more defined, my eyes more intense.

As if acting on some strange feeling I don't yet want to fully acknowledge, I take out my kohl from the drawer and very lightly line the underside of my eyes, just a smudge, to pronounce them.

I walk over to my closet once more, and this time, pick out the tiniest cycling shorts I own- ones I rarely wear now that I have more muscle from months of rigorous training- and change into them.

Looking into the mirror makes me smile. I've always liked the way I looked, but this look makes me exceptionally pleased.

It's not unnatural to want to feel wanted, is it? To feel appreciated, admired. Especially when I have done nothing wrong. Nothing to deserve this second rate treatment from my own boyfriend.

I don't give a second thought to my new look. I walk out of my room and slam the door shut behind me. The training room is almost directly underneath my room, so I don't encounter a lot of people till I enter.

I ignore the momentary hush that falls over the cadets in the immediate vicinity of the door. I ignore the dropped jaws of the guys from Second Wing, not even trying to hide their staring. I ignore Caroline Ashton's glare as I walk past her.

I ignore it all, till I spot Sawyer and Ridoc leaning against a bench, talking. And a few metres to their right, Violet and Liam, laughing together.

Even then, I ignore the little jump my heart gives when I see his silhouette, with his back to me as he and Violet stand together.

He doesn't notice me, and I pretend to not have noticed him either, walking swiftly towards Ridoc and Sawyer.

Sawyer notices me first, his eyebrows raising as he fully takes me in. I wave at him, and Ridoc turns to look at me as he catches Sawyer's line of sight. There’s a pause, while his eyes widen. He stares at me for a moment, before a grin breaks over his face, and he lets out a low whistle.

"Damn, Y/L/N," he drawls, as I reach his side. "New look? Or new strategy to win your fight?"

"Neither of the above. I think my regular training wear is still in the wash. So I wore what was available", I shrug.

"Right. Available. Surrre" Ridoc scoffs.

I roll my eyes.

"No seriously though. Who are you trying to torture?"

"I'm not trying to torture anyone. This is literally all I had to wear for training."

"And the kohl just magically flew to your eyes right?"

"It looked nice."

"Right. Well, if it's Mairi you're trying to seduce, then I think it's working."

"More than working," Sawyer coughs.

"His eyes are practically tearing the bra off your body." Ridoc remarks.

I can't help the blush that creeps up my cheeks, but I roll my eyes.

"I hardly think he would even care."

Ridoc lets out a choked sound.

"Care? Y/N, are you-"

"Liam no longer seems to care about what I do or don't do now." I can't keep the bitterness out of my tone. "A little outfit can't do what I couldn't in weeks."

Ridoc frowns at the genuine emotion in my voice, his smirk faltering. Even Sawyer seems to note something is wrong. But then he seems to notice something behind me.

"Uhh Y/N, he's coming over here right now."

Shit. I don't want to face him right now. I can't. I'm about to turn around and walk off, when-

"Y/N, Thomas Girardi, to the third mat!" Emetterio's booming voice calls out.

I've never been this relieved at a match announcement before. I practically skip over to the mat, shaking hands with Thomas, who's a bulky First Year from Third Wing. Even he seems a little distracted, to say the least, as his eyes, as if betraying his better judgment, trail down my body, before he blushes and steps back. Sawyer is not called to the mat today, because he stays back to watch my fight, giving me an encouraging smile. Just as I smile back, I see a familiar blonde head saunter over and stand next him.

Apparently, Liam wasn't called either. I quickly focus back on Thomas, forcing back the stupid grin that threatened to split my face.

When the match begins, I'm even more determined to win this fight than I normally am. Liam actually coming over to watch ME fight, when I'm pretty sure Violet's sparring too, is hella surprising. Did my ridiculous outfit plan, borne out of pure bitterness and rage, actually work? Was Liam that affected by the sight of a little skin? While that is a little flattering, it's also.... underwhelming? Is physical aspect the only thing that could make him give me a little more attention? I push the thoughts out of my head. Atleast right now, it didn't matter why Liam was here. He was watching regardless. I couldn't lose this match.

Thomas is a good fighter, and more than a few times, he flips me over, and attempts to hold me down, but I'm a master of using my body to my advantage, and each time, I wriggle out of his hold.

"Nice slide, Y/N!" Sawyer calls out, as I slip past Thomas's bruising hold.

My eyes glint as we continue sparring, sweat pooling down my forehead.

Thomas lunges at me once more, but I tuck under his arm, kick his back, hard. He stumbles forward, but quickly regains consciousness. However, I'm ready for him. I ram into him, using his momentum against him, and punch his stomach, making him gasp and double over. In the second he doubles over, I spare a glance to the side, pride coursing through my veins.

But all warmth vanishes from me in a second.

Sawyer stands alone. Liam is gone from his side. And I don't need to look far to spot him. A few feet behind Sawyer, he stands next to Violet, who appears to have just finished her match. They're conversing in low tones, Liam’s hand on her shoulder-

The wind is knocked out of me as I slam back to the ground. And then Thomas is on top of me. I barely gasp, before he punches my cheek. My head flies to the left, and a sharp pain resonates through my face. A warmth trickles down my cheek, slipping down my nose, and to the mat below, glistening a vibrant red.

My head snaps to the other side, as he lands another swift blow. And another. And another.

The blooming pain makes me snap out of whatever pitiful stupor I was momentarily in, and slam my knee straight up into his exposed groin.

Thomas screams, and I take the chance, throwing my body up, flipping him around. I whip out a knife and hold it to his throat.

He yields before I even voice the command myself.

I quickly get off of him, dropping to my knees next to him.

"Are you alright?"

Thomas's eyes are squeezed shut, his mouth contorted in pain, as he curls his legs inward, his arms around them in a crushing grip.

"I'm-sigh- fine" he breathes out.

I offer him a hand, which he takes without much hesitation, helping him get to his feet. He looks at my face, and winces.

"Sorry for... those."

I smile, even though it hurts to do so. And not just physically.

"We're even, aren't we?"

Thomas shakes my hand, and I step off the mat.

Sawyer is immediately by my side.

"Gods Y/N, your cheeks-" he starts.

"I'm fine, Sawyer, let it go." I say, even though I can feel another drop of blood drip from my cheek to the floor.

My face throbs painfully, an irony, considering how numb I was feeling inside. I begin to shuffle painfully to the door.

"What happened, Y/N? Why did you zone out during the match? You had him in the palm of your hand, but your hesitation-"

"Sawyer," I stop in my pursuit, and turn to face him. "Let. It. G-"

"What in Malek's name happened to you?" A booming voice sounds, followed by quick heavy footsteps quickly making there way to me.

Not this fucker.

"Y/N, love, what bloody happened?" Liam's exclaims as he reaches my side. Violet’s there too in a second, both of them openly staring at my face as if I've grown horns.

I shake my head, and start to walk again.

"Darling-"

I flip around.

"DON'T CALL ME THAT," I snap. Liam’s eyes widen. "YOU WOULD KNOW WHAT HAPPENED IF YOU EVEN BOTHERED TO WATCH, YOU POOR EXCUSE OF A BOYFRIEND. STAY THE FUCK AWAY FROM ME!"

I don't bother waiting for a reply, before running out of the training room, bitter tears welling up in my eyes and rolling freely down my face, all the way to my room.

I slam the door shut behind me, and lean back against it.

My eyes screw shut, and my lip wobbles, before a sob finally breaks loose.

Tears or blood or sweat, I don't know at this point, flow like water down my face, and to the floor. My knees follow the same path.

I've barely been in my room for a minute, when an incessant pounding begins on the door, sending jolting vibrations through my body as I leaned against it.

"Y/N! Open the door! Please! What's wrong?" Liam's voice, loud and frantic, mixed with a hint of confusion, and what is unmistakably hurt.

"GET LOST," I scream, my voice cracking with sobs.

"Absolutely not! Let me in, Y/N! Wha- What happened?"

"Just. Go. AWAY!"

There's a long pause, and I wait with bated breath to see if his footsteps move away from the door.

But then Liam speaks again, softer this time, the pain his tone blatantly evident.

"Please, sweetheart. Just let me in. You can yell at me, scream, fight, punch me, kick me, do whatever. Just let me in. Don't shut me out like this."

And in my head, I picture him so clearly. His blonde hair, adorably tousled, strong arms around my waist, holding me close. His blue depths, normally full of life and love when looking at me, filled with hurt and confusion. Does he really not know why I'm so upset?

I tell myself it's my anger at his ignorance about what he's done wrong, that makes me get up and open the door.

Even though I'm glaring at him so fiercely I would expect him to recoil, Liam seems more concerned by the condition of my cheeks right now.

"Oh gods," he murmurs, before abruptly stepping into the room, making me step back in surprise. I only watch as he takes out the medical kit I keep in my drawer, before turning back to me, grabbing my hand, and ushering me to sit on the edge of my bed.

"I can do it myself," I whisper hoarsely, not meeting his gaze.

"Nonsense," he says, getting onto his knees in front of me so he's level with my face.

He doesn’t waste a second, only a quick warning about how it might sting, before one of his hands tilts my head the side, and the other gently brings some cotton dipped in antiseptic to a probable cut on my cheek.

I can't hold in my gasp as searing pains tears my face. Liam’s hand that's propping my chin up squeezes me comfortingly, but he remains firm with his swipes.

He cleans both sides of my face, the wounds as well as the blood, before bringing out some gauze.

"I can do it myself," I repeat, my voice no longer as weak.

"You're not dressing your owns wounds when I'm around, my love."

My anger, which had dissipated a little because of the all consuming pain (and the close proximity to him), flares up once again at his words.

"Oh, now you're boyfriend of the year, are you? Taking care of your so called girlfriend, when you're the reason she's hurt, when you can't even bother to watch the full fight!"

My voice rises in volume with each word, but to Liam's credit, he barely flinches.

"I- That's what you're upset about? I didn't watch the whole fight? Y/N-"

"It's not just that you-" I pick up a pillow from my bed and chuck it at him- "Insufferable duffer!"

"You're never around anymore! Not in the mornings, not during classes except for the ones I have with Violet, not during traning, not while studying, not while walking in the hallways, not at night! I barely see you anymore. I've been trying to respect that fact that Xaden gave you this duty, and he has... done a lot for you, but this is borderline ridiculous! I need you too. What's the point of being in a relationship when we aren't there for each other at all?"

Liam's expression, initially just filled with shock and lingering confusion, becomes more and troubled as I keep speaking, even seeming resigned to an extent, as if he feared this would happen. He look at the ground, pursing his lips. There's a long pregnant pause in the wake of my outburst, before he lets out a weary sigh.

"Y/N, I-" he begins, before pausing again. He's trying to choose his words very carefully. "My sweet girl, I get what you mean. I completely understand." He finally looks up at me. His eyes glisten, not with tears, but with the weight of unspoken words, words which he wants to say, but has difficulty voicing. Conflicting emotions, and a deep guilt in those beautiful blue eyes.

Without leaving his gaze, I feel him gently take my hand in his, fingers intertwining with mine. I can't bring myself to pull away.

"It's not that I don't want to be with you, sweetheart. Trust me, I wake up with your name on my lips, and go to bed with your beautiful face haunting my thoughts."

"But you don't act like it, Liam," I murmur softly. "You don't act like you care. I don't see any inclination on your part to spend more time with me, or you even being sorry that you're not with me. It's like it doesn't matter to you."

Liam's brow furrows, not with anger, but with sadness. Desperation. I supress the urge to smooth out the lines. Even amidst my anger and disappointment, any negative expression on his face makes my insides clench. It hurts me to see him hurt.

He opens his mouth, as if to say something, but thinks better of it. I see his expression change, from desperation and resignation, to a more steely gaze, more... determined.

"Y/N, my gorgeous girlfriend, that's not true."

His other hand, the one not laced with mine, encircles my waist, pulling me closer. He's still on his knees, and the pull makes us come almost face to face.

"It’s not possible that I'd ever be content with not spending every waking moment by the side of the person I love more than anyone else in this world." His palm rubs circles on my bare back. "The person who's my whole world, my everything, the reason for my laughter, my joy-" his hand that was previously holding mine ventures over to my thigh-"the beating of my heart, my reason for living."

He leans in, pressing a feather light kiss to the corner of my eye.

Barely there, but promising so much.

The simmering anger in me starts to race through my veins again, but it's not exactly... anger anymore.

Liam trails further kisses down my face, careful to avoid my wounds. Both his hands venture over to my thighs, carressing, squeezing.

Gently probing them apart.

His lips trail to my neck, where the feather light touches tranform into open mouthed kisses. Despite myself, my eyes fall shut, and I tilt my head to the side, allowing Liam better access to my skin, as he kisses, sucks, marks away.

His hands continue massaging my thighs, venturing higher and higher, till they rest on the waistband of my shorts.

"I know I haven't been around much, Y/N," Liam murmurs against my skin. He trails lower, down to the valley of my breasts. He punctuates his words by a delicate bite on the skin pushed up by the bra, and I can't help the whimper that escapes my lips.

Liam pulls back from my breasts, and I open my eyes to look at him. His eyes burn like blue fire, a silent promise swirling amidst the ever spreading black of his pupils in the wake of his desire. The familiar look in his eyes, when desire threatens to overtake everything else.

"But I'm here now."

He bends, lower and lower, till he now kneels comfortably beneath me, between the circle of my thighs.

His hands tug at the waistband of my shorts. I barely notice when I'm rising on my hands, allowing him to tug them down my thighs.

Slowly, tantalizingly.

"Liam..." I moan, unable to take it anymore.

"Let me take care of you, love."

He throws my shorts to a corner of the room, leaving me in just my underwear.

Oh gods. Liam smiles, a devlishly handsome smile, that sends a jolt of desire straight to my core.

"Already soaked for me, darling?"

Liam's long, nimble fingers hook around the edge of the lace and with a swift tug, rips them off, chucking them far behind him.

He throws my left leg over his shoulder, and leans in, pressing a tentative kiss to the inside of my thigh. The action sends sparks of pure pleasure shooting through my body, and I gasp.

I can't take it anymore.

"Liam-"

"Don't worry baby, I've got you."

He licks up my slit, in one swift motion, and I gasp once more. I throw my head back when he does it again. But it's the soft kiss he presses on my clit that sends me over the edge, and I let out a loud moan. He sighs in contentment at the sound, and the breath aggravates the maddening sensations in me even more.

"There you go, love," he murmurs. He runs his tongue in circles, tasting, teasing, making me whimper and moan his name desperately.

"Oh gods, Liam-"

I feel his hands brush over me, fingers no doubt feeling and smearing the fluids dripping out of me.

His long, calloused middle finger sinks into me with ease... and I'm a goner.

His free hand finds mine once more and his finger intertwine with mine, physically, emotionally, in every way possible. I squeeze his fingers bruisingly, my breath ragged, my moans free, my body tense and desperate and impatient, wriggling on the bed.

His finger pumps in and out of me, agonizing in its savouring pace. Not nearly fast enough, not nearly enough to quell the burgeoning ache in me. White hot pleasure pools low in belly, and it's as if it's that pleasure that courses through my veins instead of blood, as if that's what my heart is pumping rapidly through my body, all the way to my curling toes.

"My pretty girl," Liam smirks against me, the vibarations in my already stimulated heat making me let out a particularly desperate cry. I feel a faint blush colouring my cheeks, even though it's probably the thousandth time Liam has called me his pretty girl as he ate me out. But the words never fail to make me feel special, lose myself in the pleasure of it all even more.

"Such pretty sounds from a pretty girl."

He inserts a second finger, and I bite my lip to keep from crying out that desperately again, cause I no longer have any control over my vocal cords anymore.

"No, don't hold back, love," Liam murmurs, as if sensing my restraint. His teeth tug at my swollen bud, and this time, I can't suppress the desperate scream that rages through me.

"That's it," he praises. "I want to hear exactly what I'm doing to you, exactly how much pleasure I'm making you feel, my love."

His tongue sucks my clit, the pressure clearly no longer teasing, but purposeful. The unhurried, thorough thrusts with his fingers now faster, rougher. He curls his fingers in me, hitting that spot, again and again, till my nails dig into Liam's hand intertwined with mine, my other tangled in his blonde curls, twisting and pulling at his hair. I writhe, moaning and whimpering desperately, pleasure raging through me....

The familiar pressure in my belly builds, heavy, insistent and inevitable, consuming every thougt that isn't his name, his relentless nimble fingers, his unforgiving tongue, and his teeth nipping at me....

Oh gods.

"That's it, darling," he breathes. "Come for me, my love."

His words send me over the edge, and I shatter, coming apart on his lips and fingers with a scream. He doesn’t falter in his ministrations, if anything, his mouth becomes even more thorough as he eats me out, lapping up every last drop till I'm whimpering and pulling at his hair, begging him to stop.

Finally satisfied, Liam straightens up. I lean back on the bed, using my hands to keep me upright, but barely.

My lidded gaze meets Liam's vibrant, intense blue, his eyes alive and lit with satisfaction, and he keeps it locked with mine as he slowly brings his fingers to his mouth and licks them clean.

His lips stretch into a lazy, satiated smirk, still glistening with my release.

Even though I'm still weak and trembling, I can't resist leaning forward, and kissing him straight on the mouth. Liam immediately pulls me closer, and I savour the sweet taste of his lips in the aftermath of the warm pleasure still running through me.

We break apart, but only for a moment, as Liam settles against the headboard of my bed, before lifting me up with ease and settling me onto his lap. I'm still trembling slightly, my legs mush, and I melt in his arms. I sigh, a tiny smile on my face as I rest my head on his chest, just under his chin. He presses a soft kiss to my forehead, and doesn't pull back.

"I love you, Y/N," he whispers throatily against my forehead. "So much. More than you'll ever know, darling. I'll-I'll talk to Xaden about shadowing Violet. I know I should have done it long ago, but I didn't want Xaden to think I wasn't interested in helping him. But it wasn't fair to you. And I'm so sorry for that, for neglecting you and making you think that you don't matter to me, which is the furthest thing from the truth. It kills me knowing I was the reason for your sadness, your tears. I'm so so sorry, my love."

His words fill me with warmth, the lingering traces of disappointment and resentment vanishing, leaving behind nothing but overwhelming love for this wonderful man, who is everything to me.

"It's fine, Liam," I whisper to him. I press a tiny kiss to his neck, the only part of him within reach of my lips. "I could never stay mad at you. I love you, so so much."

He kisses my forehead again, and I can make out that his lips are stretched into a smile. "You're my whole world, Y/N, and I'll be damned if I don't spend every day of my life showing you just how much I love you."

[hannah-lou]

🍃riverbank tension🍃

This is the 1st part of my fic, which takes place over a year after the events of Kingdom. I also worked on an art piece specifically for this one. So I hope you like it!

It had been over a year since Mae left Noa that day, but the feelings she had for him were still very much alive. She couldn’t ever seem to shake them no matter what activities she did to preoccupy herself. Not able to quite describe what the feelings were other than extreme attraction towards him. She imagined how he would look now if she were to see him again and wished she could, but who was she to go marching back into his village uninvited. He’d probably not even remember her now.

Clinging onto the necklace that he gave her the last time she saw him, she stood at the rivers edge and watched the water dance with the sun’s rays, the flickers of sunlight shone onto her face. She could feel herself getting lost in the therapeutic sound of the water battling against the rocks a little further downstream.

Crouching down to feel the waters temperature, she felt that it was cold but not too cold for her, after all, she was used to bathing in such conditions, even when it was icy conditions, she was able to take a quick dip as long as a fire was steadily burning nearby so that she could warm back up again. It wasn’t ideal but she didn’t have anything else.

Standing upright again, she started removing the tattered fabrics covering her, exposing the scars on her arms and legs from the previous attacks and shivering as the cool air greeted her bare skin. Closing her eyes and stepping into the water, goose bumps appeared on her arms. She hugged herself for a minute or two until her body got more used to the temperature, then began to wash.

Little to Mae’s knowledge, Noa was travelling in her direction on his horse. Cantering through the trees, he had decided to go foraging for any other human items worth taking back to his village. Eagle Sun gently glided above him, calling quietly until he landed on a low tree branch next to Mae and fluttered his wings a few times to settle.

Noa pulled the reigns when he saw that his eagle had perched, slowing his horse to a stop. He looked at his eagle and narrowed his eyes before attempting to call him back, tapping the gauntlet on his arm.

Then he saw movement in the river and decided to dismount, landing as softly as he could. He walked cautiously with his left hand positioned ready to pull his knife if he needed to, his steps were slow and light. But when he was able to see her clearly, he had no trouble recognising her instantly.

“M- Mae?”

He whispered, his eyes widening for a moment at the sight of her pale, naked body. It definitely took him by surprise. He stared at her, admiring how she looked similar to the females of his clan but some parts of her still managed to make him curious

He knew he should look away but he simply couldn’t. He’d never seen her without clothing before and his mind ran wild with curiosity. Hiding behind a tree, he watched intently, a feeling building inside of his chest that he’d never felt. His breath quickened, his heart felt like it might jump out of his chest.

Mae was unaware that she was being watched. She turned around, revealing her bare chest to the ape. He gasped but covered his mouth quickly, feeling a need for something but he wasn’t sure what. It was like a magnet pulling him toward her. He gripped onto the tree bark, his fingers digging in and chipping away some of the looser pieces as he released a trembled sigh.

Where is swelling from oestrogen?

Echo’s chest ha full breasts even when not baring a child?

Why does echo wear fabrics to cover?

Echo only has fur in only some places?

Stepping out of the water Mae dried off and put on her clothes, the blue top with black jeans that she had worn the last time she saw Noa. She picked up the necklace and put it on, her mind wandered again, visualising him. The way he walked, how he sounded when he spoke, his protective personality. She was quickly snapped back away from her thoughts, though, when she noticed some rustling not far away, she paused then gabbed her gun.

“Don’t even think about attempting anything!” She held the pistol tightly in both hands “come out... now!”

Noa closed his eyes tightly, bracing himself before stepping out from behind the tree and into view. Mae didn’t recognise him. He wore a necklace made from feathers and and what looked to be canine teeth draped around his neck and down his shoulders. more feathered arm cuffs wrapped around his muscular arms and his face had traces of blue and grey paint on it which made his bright green eyes seem as though they were glowing.

He slowly stepped towards her, putting his hands out in front of him in an attempt to signal that he wasn’t a threat but Mae stood firm.

“stay away! I’ll shoot!”

Noa raised a brow, taken aback by the fact that she didn’t recognise him, he wasn’t surprised though. He was aware that he looked different. He also knew Mae was telling the truth. After all, he saw her put a hole in an apes chest in the vault that day. The memory of the gunshot circled around his mind for a moment, but he continued slowly closing the gap between them.

She will remember he thought, taking another step forward.

Mae’s finger landed on the trigger, ready to squeeze it, but Noa quickly pointed to the necklace she was wearing. Throwing her off.

“Important”

His single word stopped her abruptly, gasping. She knew that voice. “w- what did you say?”

“Very... important”

Hearing him speak again. Mae stared at him with wide eyes, struggling to believe that it was really him. This scenario had been swirling around in her mind for such a long time. She opened her mouth to speak but she couldn’t make words.

Noa gently lowered the hand with the gun that was still pointing at him. Mae held her breath and raised one hand up to touch his face.

“You’re real” she said, a tear rolling down her cheek.

Noa hummed softly, enjoying the feel of her skin on his before placing his hand over hers. A sensation built in the pit of his stomach. A feeling he had for her before, but this time it was so much stronger.

Mae pointed to the paint on his face and finally managed to speak “w- what is it for?” she asked, her voice a quiet tremble “I really didn’t recognise you”

Noa’s eyes glinted at her question, he remembered that she didn’t know his clan’s ways, it amused him. He answered with a low raspy tone.

“For honour. A mark for other members... of my clan to know my role... and females to know that-” he trailed off and looked away for a moment.

“To know what?” Mae instantly regretted asking that question. She already knew and it made her jealous. She didn’t understand why.

“That I... am ready” he lowered his brows and wrinkled his nose before turning his gaze back to her “to... mate”.

The vision inside Mae’s mind of him breeding another female felt like torture. She knew she needed to shut it off but she just couldn’t. In some ways, she missed the version of him that wasn’t available, even to his own kind.

Noa tilted his head, he could smell the jealousy radiating from her “I have not... claimed a mate yet, Mae”

He wasn’t quite sure what he was feeling, but he liked it. He had never felt this, not even for his own kind. He knew that it was something primal, burning deep inside that every inhale of her scent made it stronger, but he didn’t want to stop.

Mae blinked hard, wondering why he felt the need to tell her that. Did he feel the same way as her? Was he saving himself for... her? She wanted answers. She shouldn’t, but she couldn’t stop herself, she needed to ask.

“so, who are you saving yourself for?”

No going back from it now.

Her question seemed to ring loudly in his ears. He suddenly felt like the shy, younger ape who he thought he buried long ago. His eyes widened before moving his hand to subtly sign. He began motioning to her but quickly clenched his fist. He didn’t want her to know yet.

He needed to change topic, needed to shake this feeling. He wanted to take her there and then, but what would she think of him if he told her that he stood and watched her in the river?

He glanced around and motioned to a small spot Mae had set up earlier “You are... camping here, yes?”

Mae somewhat welcomed the subject change, she wished that she never even asked that dreaded question.

“I am... you’d better get back to your clan, right?”

He narrowed his eyes, his brows lowered with confusion, his protective instinct coming back for her once again “I will stay... with you” he closed his eyes tightly and let out a breath, putting one hand under her chin “I need... to stay with you, Mae... will not lose you again... I cannot”

Mae didn’t say anything, she felt his hand squeeze hers softly. She smiled and leaned in, resting her head against his chest and nuzzling into his thick fur.

[lalachat]

"Shadows and Scandal"

Author's note: Hey y'all!!! My heart is so happy seeing all the likes, reposts, and comments on chapter 1 🥺 I was planning on releasing chapters weekly, but with all the love, I figured why not post chapter 2!💞 My life is about to get very busy as it's finals week for my summer course on top of starting up work again! Do not fret! I have been up till 3am almost every night, cranking out chapters while I can, so y'all can have a frequent release schedule!!! This was supposed to come out on Saturday, but I'm too excited for y'all to read this story. Eventually, once this story is done, I'll be doing a REWRITE for "And There You Were." I think I've yapped long enough for this note... ENJOY CHAPTER 2!!! Depending on how this goes, I may release 3 early as well before doing a weekly release after.

Summary: It's your first morning as Azriel’s wife. It begins in unfamiliar silence, but curiosity, some practicing, and a plan to fool the Inner Circle start to unfold. Will you keep the act up, or will the lines start to blur?

Word Count: 2,581

Chapter 2: "We Don't Pull Away"

The bed was cold when you woke. You must have fallen asleep at some point from the exhaustion of yesterday.

The morning light seeped through the windows of your bedroom, as the house remained silent. No footsteps, no wingbeats, or any kind of movement. He was gone for training.

You got out of bed slowly, took your potion, wrapped your shawl around your shoulders, and stepped into the hallway, the wooden floor creaking underneath you. You decided that you would see what the kitchen had in store, but something stopped you. You had almost missed it when walking past it... Azriel's door was cracked open.

You hadn’t intended to snoop. But his room carried that faint scent of smoke and cedarwood, and it tugged at you.

"Just one look," you told yourself, "Not to judge. Just to understand him better."

You pushed the door open gently. The room was clean, like the rest of the house, but it wasn't lifeless. It was Azriel, through and through. Everything had a purpose. A simple bed with dark linens, made tightly and without wrinkles. A dagger sat on a nightstand, balanced atop an old book of Illyrian tactics. The windows were slightly cracked, letting the breeze carry in the scent of river water and pine. And then, you saw it. Sitting half-hidden beneath a leather-bound journal on his dresser was a folded piece of parchment.

You picked it up with hesitant fingers, unfolding it carefully. It was a drawing done in pencil. The archway from your wedding. The flowers. A faint outline of two figures standing beneath it, holding hands. You could tell it wasn’t drawn by him, as you knew your High Lady to be quite the artist from the stories people told about her.

The parchment was creased as if it had been handled often. The wedding had only happened just yesterday... how much had he been looking at this? Your chest warmed at the thought before tightening. The sound of footsteps getting closer.

"Shit, He’s back."

You quickly folded the sketch, slid it exactly where you’d found it, and quietly slipped out of the room.

You barely made it into the kitchen before you heard the sound of boots being knocked clean outside the door. You didn’t look back. Instead, you busied yourself with making a small brunch. You put the kettle on the stove, sliced some fruit, and grabbed some bread from the breadbox.

You moved quickly, hoping that you did enough to make it seem like you've been here awhile.

Behind you, the air shifted. His shadows were lurking about, surveying what was going on. They curled into the room like mist before reporting back to their master. You reached for the pan and gently put a slice of bread on it. You could feel his eyes on you now.

"Gods, did his shadows catch me earlier? Did he know I was snooping?"

You turned, only to find him in the doorway, freshly back from training. His shirt was damp, muscles more pronounced, the morning light catching every sweat drop, making him look like he was glistening. You froze for a second too long as the smell of something burning broke you from your trance.

“Shit—” you muttered, spinning around and flipping it just in time, but not before the edges blackened.

Azriel’s voice was low behind you. “Good morning.”

You exhaled, cheeks flushing. “Morning.”

You felt him step into the kitchen, not close, but closer than before. You risked another glance at him, and Cauldron save you, he looked unfairly good. Smirking just slightly as he sat at the table without another word. You placed a teacup in front of him before going back to grab the kettle.

"Tea?" you asked gently.

"Sure," he replied as you poured him a cup before returning to the toast.

"You sleep okay?" Azriel asked as if he were trying to create some sort of small talk with you.

"Yes, quite well," which was a lie, but he didn't need to know that, "You?"

Azriel hummed. “Didn’t sleep much.”

You glanced at him over your shoulder. “Is that normal?”

Another sip of tea. “Yes.”

You nodded, unsure what to say next.

The last piece of toast was done. You plated it with some fruit, brought it over, and set it in front of him before taking your seat across the table.

He picked up a slice without complaint. You waited for a comment about the darkened edges, but none came. Instead, he took a bite.

“Not bad,” he said mildly, though the corner of his mouth twitched.

You raised a brow. “It's bad, isn't it?”

“It’s better than anything I would’ve made.”

“You’re being polite, you don't have to eat it if you don't like it..."

He looked at you, really looked, and for a moment, the shadows seemed to pause too. “No,” he said, quieter now. “I’m being honest.”

Your heart fluttered as you took a slow sip of your tea. "So, what's with the dagger by the breadbox?"

He only shrugged. "Habit. In case someone breaks in while I'm making tea."

You narrowed your eyes slightly, "Is that normal?"

He smirked behind his cup, "You'd be surprised."

You laughed quietly before clearing your throat, as if it weren't allowed. I mean, you had only met him yesterday.

“So… about tomorrow.”

Azriel's gaze met yours, expression carefully neutral.

“We’re meeting the Inner Circle, right?” you asked.

“Yes.”

You swallowed. “Do they know? About us?”

He shook his head. “Not yet. Rhys thought it might be… easier if we told them together.”

You arched a brow. “Easier for who?”

Azriel didn’t answer right away. His gaze dropped to his tea. “They’re close. Protective. And not great with surprises.”

“So we lie?”

“No,” he said firmly. “We just… omit. Until it makes sense to explain.”

You nodded slowly, unsure how that sat with you.

“I don’t like pretending,” you said after a pause.

His eyes met yours again, this time more open. “Neither do I. But they’ll ask questions. And unless we have the same story…”

“…we’ll drown in their questions,” you finished. Azriel gave a soft nod.

You leaned back in your chair. “Alright. So what is our story?”

He tilted his head. “We’re allies, trusted by Rhys. Pressured into a political arrangement, but willing to make it work.”

Your lips quirked. “So… no love story?”

Azriel’s jaw tightened, just barely, but you saw it. “Not yet.”

Not yet... You blinked, heat crawling up your neck at the words. He didn’t seem to notice. Or maybe he did, but pretended not to. You reached for another piece of toast, more for something to do than to eat.

“So we just… act like we’re figuring out the terms,” you said, "separate rooms, polite smiles, no real closeness?"

Azriel cut in. “They’ll pick up on that too easily. It’ll look like we’re hiding something.”

Your brow rose. “So what do you want to do, you want to fake affection?”

His voice was calm. “I want it to seem natural.”

You blinked, "natural?"

Azriel leaned back in his chair, arms crossing over his chest. “If we’re trying not to look like we care, it’ll draw more attention. They’ll poke. Ask questions we’re not ready to answer.”

You swallowed. Now you are seeing why he's the spy master. He thinks everything through so thoroughly. “So we pretend we’re closer than we really are?”

He nodded once, slowly. “Close enough to keep them from looking too hard. Close enough to protect the truth.”

You stared at him, heart beating a little too fast at the sight of him looking at you with an understanding of why you had agreed to this. But you had no understanding as to why he agreed. I mean, surely it's deeper than needing to fend off someone's advances.

"Azriel," you said softly, "tell me why you agreed to this?"

He didn’t look away, but something behind his eyes shifted, like he was trying to keep unwanted emotions at bay. He set his teacup down with careful precision, the clink against the ceramic loud in the quiet room.

“For the same reason I agree to most things,” he said at last. “Rhys asked me to.”

You blinked. “That can't be your answer,” you said.

“It’s the truth.”

“No,” you said, sitting up straighter, “it may be part of the truth, but it’s not your reason. Rhysand offered you this match, but he didn’t force you.”

Azriel was silent for a moment. The shadows around his shoulders curled tighter, as if they were wanting to break free but were being restrained by him. The air grew thick with tension as the conversation changed. After a moment longer, he finally spoke.

“I know what it’s like to be cast aside. To be seen as a burden. An inconvenience. A mistake.”

You said nothing. You didn’t dare interrupt, but you felt the emotion behind his words.

“So when I heard…” His voice faltered just slightly, a roughness creeping in, “When I heard what your father was planning to do... I figured maybe… maybe I could be the one who didn’t turn his back.”

Your throat burned. Tears starting to form in your eyes.

“I don’t care about the rumors that will come of this,” he added, “I just wanted to give you safety and a choice.”

You swallowed hard, trying to quickly blink away the tears. The intensity of his words cut through you like the damn dagger by the breadbox.

"Thank you for telling me that," you said as you awkwardly shifted in your seat, picking at the slightly burnt toast in front of you. He nodded in response. "So, we just need to pretend like we're close?"

"Precisely, just enough that no one will think to pry."

You gave him a puzzled look. "Which means what exactly?"

He took one last sip of his tea before he spoke. "Occasional touches, lingering glances, smiling at each other just enough, you know, the simple things."

You tried to hide your surprise at how nonchalant he is about the situation. "Right... the simple things. And if someone asks when it happened?"

"Just say that it was a fast but necessary decision. A quiet union made with the blessing of the High Lord and Lady, strictly for political reasons."

You stared at him, "You're rather good at this."

He shrugged, "It's not my first lie."

You felt uneasy about that comment, but nodded. “Okay, so we married… quietly. For political reasons. We’re still figuring things out, and it’s going well.”

He met your gaze. “It is going well.”

You gave a soft, sad smile. “That’s the first lie we’ll tell them.”

Azriel nodded as he stood and offered you his hand. “Come on, if we’re going to pretend to be close tomorrow… we should probably start practicing.”

Your breath caught. “Practice? Practice how?”

"Yes, practice..." he said, not meeting your eyes. "We need to get used to being… close.”

It began simple enough. He showed you how to stand near him, not too rigid, but just enough that your shoulders or hands might brush.

“People notice tension,” he said, voice low and calm. “The kind that comes from pulling away. We don’t pull away.”

You stood in front of him, arms at your sides, and tried not to look like your heart was beating out of your chest. How he was speaking so calmly was beyond you. He reached for your hand slowly, giving you just enough time to move. When you didn’t, he took it gently in his. Your fingers curled instinctively, holding his just a little tighter.

“Like that?” you asked, trying to breathe normally.

He nodded. “Yes. This looks… real."

Later, you practiced sitting on the couch. Not quite touching at first, but slowly inching closer. You laughed awkwardly when his wing accidentally knocked a book off the table, and he grumbled something about his wings and "spatial awareness", but saw the faint smile on his lips.

Next, he showed you how to loop your arm through his as if it were second nature. You showed him how to tilt his head toward you like he was listening, like what you had to say actually mattered. You also walked through the kitchen once, slowly, with your hand resting lightly at the base of his spine. That one undid him a little, as you felt it in the way he paused mid-step, but he said nothing.

By the time the light in the cottage dimmed, you found yourselves sitting beside each other on the couch again, this time with his hand resting lightly over yours where it lay on your thigh. It was almost dark. You hadn’t noticed.

Azriel finally broke the silence, his voice low. “We should consider… appearances.”

You turned to him. “What do you mean?”

“If they ask, and believe me Cassian might ask, where you sleep… it might be better if the answer doesn’t raise questions.”

You swallowed. “So we lie?”

Azriel’s eyes met yours. Steady. Careful. “We prepare. We don’t need to do anything. But we… share a room. Just for the night. Just in case, so that our answer feels less like a lie."

Your heart was in your throat. “And the bed?”

“We can stay on opposite sides. I won’t touch you.”

You weren’t sure why that made your chest ache, but you nodded. “Okay. Just for tonight.”

You stood together, quietly moving down the hall. He paused at the threshold, letting you enter first. You didn’t look back to see if he followed. You already felt the warmth of him behind you.

You paused just inside the room, glancing toward the bed, then back at him. “Um… I need to change.”

Azriel’s eyes widened slightly, then immediately darted to the floor. “Right. Of course.” He turned his back so fast it was almost comical, shoulders suddenly very straight. “I’ll, uh… I’ll stay right here.”

You bit back a smile. "Azriel, I can just go to my room to change..."

He froze. You swore you could see the gears starting to turn in his head. "Right! Yes. Of course you can," he sounded horrified with himself. “I didn’t mean you had to—Cauldron, I wasn’t asking you to—gods..."

You were already halfway out the door, laughing softly to yourself. "Relax, I wasn't going to strip in front of you."

"I wasn't trying to make you think you have to!" he called after you, still feeling mortified. "I just... this whole fake-marriage bed-sharing situation is already weird!"

You briefly peeked your head back into his room, "You're adorable when you're flustered, you know that?"

He groaned and flopped onto the bed. "Oh please leave me with some dignity."

You just smiled at him and went to your room, slipping into a simple oversized shirt with shorts. When you returned, you found him under the covers with his arms crossed over his head.

"You're doing a terrible job of looking unbothered," you laughed. "Recovered from the meltdown?"

"Barley," as he gave you a look of "don't test me."

You slipped into the bed beside him, careful not to brush his side. “You sure you’re okay sharing a bed with me now that I’ve scandalously not changed in front of you?”

Azriel stared up at the ceiling, deadpan. “I’m barely surviving the disappointment.”

You giggled and turned onto your side, tucking the blankets up around your shoulders. “Night, Azriel.”

A pause.

“…Goodnight, Y/N.”

If you’re interested in being on my taglist, please let me know!

Tags:

@bookishbishhh @starsidesigh

Post author's note: This has only been published for like 10 mins, but I have a question! Do y'all enjoy the songs to help with the overall vibe? Or is it like "eh, I don't really care imo." BE HONEST! I'm a big girl, I can handle truths.

[that-basic-simp]

Safe Word

Sophia x Fem! Reader CW: Filthy, pure filth WC: 2.4k+ A/N: Well, we all expected this. Anyway, hope you all enjoy and yes, this is a very filthy one-shot.

MDNI

"You sure you want to do this?"

"If this is what you want, yes. I don't mind."

A skeptical look crossed her face, but then it was replaced with a smirk.

"My, my. I didn't expect this from you, my little wretch."

"Anything for you, mistress."

"Careful what you wish for," she chuckled a bit darkly, some blush crawling onto her cheeks.

Despite that cold and harsh front she put on when we first met, she was such a soft woman who just wanted to be loved. To be seen. She kept things safe and people take her for granted. I've told her my deepest and darkest secret, and while we have yet to interact with other people, she hasn't told a single soul here in the house. Despite there being a lot of gossip. And while she can be a bit hard to please, especially during intimacy, the way she cares for me afterwards is the most caring I have ever seen.

"I don't care about the results, mistress. Please, let me show you I can be useful."

She smirked once more, "You already have."

She pulled at the leash that was attached to the collar around my neck, tugging my body towards her. I wriggled just a bit, but it was going to be hard to move with my arms behind me, and a ribbon wrapped somewhat tightly around my wrists.

"My, my. You look pathetic," she snickered. "All of this for me."

"E-Everything for you, mistress."

She tilted her head to the side slightly, the corner of her mouth perked up slightly for a small smile.

"Don't forget our safe word, alright?" she nodded with concern.

"I won't."

"Good," she said and pressed a kiss to my cheek. "I wouldn't want a pathetic little wretch like you to snap so easily. If I wanted to see that, I would ask Dasha or Shelley to do it."

"Maybe I want you to do it, mistress."

"Only if you want to be dead and buried."

"And bricked," I chuckled nervously.

She tugged the leash harsher, our faces mere inches from one another, "Pathetic."

"All for you, mistress."

"What do you want, my little wretch?"

"You, mistress."

She smirked once more, pulling me closer to where our lips were grazing one another.

"Then you'll get me, my little wretch."

She released her hold on the leash and gently pushed me down onto the bed. Sophia removed the ribbon, only to readjust the position of my arms. She pulled them over my head and tied my wrists once more.

"Comfortable?"

"Yeah. Thank you, mistress."

"Anything for my little wretch," she said and pressed a quick kiss to my lips.

"Now then, I'm going to watch you wriggle around like the little worm you are."

"I would want nothing more."

"Good," she smiled and pressed a kiss to my neck.

At first they were soft, cautious. But once she found her confidence, which didn't take long, they became hard kisses. Then they turned into biting and sucking. I titled my head back and let out a soft moan. Her hands roamed my soft skin, leaving trails of her warmth. It started at my wrists and then it went down my arms, over my chest, and then to my stomach. The pads of her fingers ran up and down my curves, as if she was trying to remember the shape of me. I'm sure she already has. With that look in her eyes, she could see all of me.

Once she has left her mark, her kisses slowly trailed down to my chest, over my stomach, and to my inner thighs. The back of my knees rested on her broad shoulders. The shoulders I love to kiss and give my attention to. She carried the weight of the world on them, so it's only natural that I give them the much needed appreciation they deserve. As well as herself.

"Remember our safe word," she said.

"Always, mistress."

She winked at me before nibbling the flesh of my inner thigh, getting me more riled up that she wasn't going in already. She had teased me enough before this, she doesn't need to tease me more. I bucked my hips a bit, trying to get her to move a bit faster. She didn't like that. A dark look appeared in her eyes as she bit my thigh harshly.

"Fuck!"

"Hush now. Take it slow, wretch. You can't rush this."

"Please, mistress," I whined.

"Beg for me then."

"P-Please, mistress. Please, let me feel your fingers and your tongue inside me. Fuck me senseless until I am worthless and pathetic."

She smiled at me as she pressed a kiss to the bite mark.

"That's a good little wretch."

Her tongue teased at first, the tip flicking at my entrance. I whined slightly, which caused her to back up a bit. Even if I wasn't begging with my words, my eyes said it all. I stared longingly and deeply into hers. She got the message as she took one long, slow swipe with her tongue. I tilted my head back more and let out a soft moan, relishing in all that she was. Her hands grabbed at my waist as she pulled me towards her, her lips meeting my entrance. She kissed here and there until she started to suck.

I desperately wanted to run my hand through her short blonde hair, to push her closer and deeper. To hold her there until she was through with me. Her one hand was removed from my waist and her middle finger was inserted. I let out another moan, my legs wrapping around her head. If my hands weren't going to keep her in place, my legs might as well. Another finger was inserted and then her tongue came in afterwards. Everything was pure heaven. The way her fingers pressed against my walls and how her tongue went in and out, creating that friction and fluids to keep everything that was going in and out with ease.

"F-Fuck, right there, mistress."

She dug her tongue as deep as it could go, the same with her fingers. Before I knew it, a knot started to form and within seconds, it unraveled and my fluids rushed out. Sophia's eyes fluttered closed as she swallowed everything, licking up the rest as I was coming down from my high. Once my body calmed and my legs loosened around her head, she removed her head from between my legs. Her lips and chin glistened with my fluids. There was even a small strand hanging from her bottom lip.

"Very good, wretch. Such a sweet taste."

"T-Thank you, mistress," I breathed out.

"Shall I give you a few minutes?" she asked as she crawled up my body, resting her head on my chest.

"Please."

"Alright. Need anything?"

"Just some water."

"Here," she reached up and removed the ribbon.

She got up from the bed and walked into the bathroom. As she was walking, she was conscious of how she was. She swayed her hips a bit more deliberately than normal. I fell even harder for her as I watched her from the backside, getting a good look at her back, those thighs, and of course that ass. I whistled as she walked into the bathroom.

"Damn."

She turned her head over her shoulder, "Like what you see?"

"Very much."

"Get used to it. You're not going to see it that much."

"Maybe. Maybe not," I smiled.

She smiled back at me. She disappeared into the bathroom and returned with a glass of water. She sat beside me and handed it to me.

"Thank you," I said and drank some.

"Let me know when you're ready," she said and rubbed my leg. "I didn't bite you too hard did I?"

"Just a bit," I said, noticing the bite mark was starting to get red.

"Love, why didn't you say anything?" she asked, placing her hand on my cheek.

"I was enjoying it."

"I know, but your safety and sense of feeling comfortable comes before your pleasure. Please, next time, if I hurt you in any way, even if you're enjoying it, let me know."

I reached up and took Sophia's hand, pressing a kiss to her palm.

"Of course, love."

"Thank you," she said and pressed a sweet and loving kiss to my lips. "I don't want to hurt you."

"I know. And thank you. I don't want to hurt you either. So if I am hurting you, let me know."

"I will."

"Thank you. I'm ready if you are."

"Oh fuck yes," she said.

I giggled as I pressed one more quick kiss to her cheek.

"I'll be right back," I said.

I got up and walked over to a drawer in the bathroom. I pulled out the one lone item and came back into the bedroom. Sophia was already there waiting for me.

"They most famous saying is heavy is the crown," Sophia said.

"They should say, heavy are the hips that wear the strap," I smiled eagerly as I put the strap on.

"You're right on that."

Once I made sure everything was secure, I turned back to Sophia.

"This size ok?"

"Yes."

"I-I can switch it out for a smaller size?"

"Y/N, love," she said in such a soft voice. "It's fine. Now come here and take me to pound town."

"Always, mistress," I said and got onto the bed.

Before we did anything, I placed two fingers in my mouth and got them wet enough. I found my place right in between Sophia's legs and pressed my lips harshly to hers. Her arms wrapped around my neck and her hand dug into the back of my hair. My one hand traversed her curves and the other slid in between her legs and inside her. She bit my lip as she tried to hold back from squeezing me a bit too hard. I pushed my fingers in her and she let out a moan, allowing me to slip my tongue inside her mouth. My other arm wrapped around her waist and my hand ran up and down her back.

"Fuck," she whispered as she pulled away to breathe.

"Do you want me to fuck you, mistress?"

"Yes, please, wretch. Give your mistress what she wants."

"And what does my mistress want?"

She still had the collar and leash around my neck. With a quick jerk, I was tugged towards her to where my head was beside hers.

"You," she whispered in my ear in the most seductive voice I have ever heard from her.

It send a shiver down my spine as my fingers pumped in and out a bit faster.

"Do you want it rough, mistress?"

"As rough as you can go."

"Anything for you, mistress."

I pulled my fingers out to find it was glistening with fluids. I spread it along the strap and grabbed at her thighs, aligning the tip with her. I looked up and she nodded.

"Yes."

"Thank you."

I slowly pushed the tip inside and Sophia's head tilted back, her eyes closing as a loud moan and a soft whimper escaped her mouth.

"Fuck," she whispered.

"Is this ok, mistress?"

"Yes. You're fine," she said as she grabbed at the bed sheets beneath us.

"Ok," I said and slowly pushed the rest of the strap in.

Once our hips were together, I shifted around before I stopped, letting her get used to the size. I pressed my forehead against hers and lightly pecked her lips a few times. Right as I was about to pull away, she reached up and grabbed my jaw. She pulled me in for a rough make out session. I placed my hands on her shoulders as her tongue danced across mine. I shuddered once more as I got the faint taste of myself from her.

"Fuck me," she demanded once she pulled away.

"Yes, mistress."

I placed my hands on her hips and slowly pulled out and then back in. Her soft moans were music to my ears and the way she pulled me closer to her body. Our chests were pressed up against one another's and her arms were wrapped around my neck, once more digging into my hair.

"Faster," she said after a few minutes of going at a slow pace.

I wrapped my arms around her tightly as I started to get faster, pulling out halfway and then forcefully pushing in.

"Harder," she demanded.

I did as she wanted, thrusting with all my might. The sound of skin on skin contact filled the room as well as my grunts and her moans and whimpers. Who knew Sophia could be so vocal? Even though it wasn't our first time, it still felt like it.

"How's my mistress?" I asked, trying to catch my breath.

She grabbed the leash and tugged me close to her.

"You better fuck me like you mean it, wretch."

She meant business now. She wanted her release and she wanted it now. I pressed my lips against hers and started to go as best as I could. I pulled almost all the way out before slamming back into her. She moaned against my lips, causing our kisses to become sloppy. She pulled away and placed her head into my shoulder. She let out a whine before I slammed into her one more time, her fluids spilling out. Now it was just us breathing heavily that filled the once noisy room.

"A-Are you ok?"

She nodded, "Y-Yeah."

"I'm going to pull out."

"G-Give me a minute."

"Ok."

We laid on the bed, our arms wrapped around one another. She patted my shoulder blade, signaling me I can pull the strap out. I pulled it out and took it off, setting it on the ground beside the bed.

"Can I get you anything?"

"Just some water."

"Ok."

"Are you ok to move?"

"I should be fine."

I slowly got up and went into the bathroom, getting her a glass of water. I handed it to her before cuddling up beside her. She pulled a sheet up to cover our bodies. Even though we were sticky with sweat and other fluids, she wrapped her arm around me, pulling me close to her.

"Did I do ok?" I asked.

"You did great."

"Thanks. You did, too."

"Thank you."

I let out a yawn before cuddling closer to her.

"You can't fall asleep just yet. We gotta get washed up," she chuckled.

"But you're just so warm," I smiled and nuzzled into the crook of her neck.

"Ten minutes," she said.

"Ok," I mumbled.

She kissed the top of my head before resting hers on top of mine.

"I know I don't really say it that much, but I do appreciate all you do for me," she whispered.

"You don't need to say it. I know you do with what you do for me."

"But sometimes I should say it. So that you can actually hear it."

"Thank you. For always telling me."

"You're welcome. And," she pulled away and lifted my head up. I found her eyes, even if mine were half lidded.

"I love you," she whispered.

"I love you, too, Sophia," I said and kissed her.

[starryjkoo]

I think that even aside from shipping people are jealous of jikook biased fans because we're getting a whole second season of a 9h long show where our biases are on screen 90% of the time. For a few years now fans have been pretty starved from content that just let's them see their bias on camera for a extended period of time. Cause stuff like songs, mvs and even concerts don't give a ton in terms of just seeing members talk, have fun and be cute and entertaining in a more casual way. I mean, the appeal of idols is more than just music and performances, there's a big part that's about seeing the idols' personality and how they are off stage and, aside from some stuff here and there, armys haven't gotten much of that since the hiatus. Fans really miss stuff like Bon Voyage and instead of getting that (and with it getting to see their bias) like a lot of them thought they would now that's it's finally 2025 (aka BTS year) they're just getting another season of "The Jikook Show (Your Fave Not Included*)".

Tae fans especially are feeling this. Yes, even the one who aren't shippers because there's this ingrained comparison of the maknaeline members in people's mind that makes it so they think that anytime a maknaeline member gets something that something was 'stolen' from another maknaeline member who could have had it instead. And AYS being about not only one but both the remaining maknaeline members makes it even worse. It makes them think Tae is being excluded because the maknaeline is supposed to be a trio. And they were already mad about Tae being "just a guest" last season which highlighted even more how he's not properly a part of something that they think he, as one of the trio, should've been a part of. Now they're even more mad because he's not even a guest anymore. And that's not to mention the resentment they have of jikook being on another level of successful compared to the other members. To them Jikook being the "ace duo" or the "most successful duo" is just another exclusion of Tae from this trio he should be a part of. Also, Tae seems the least likely out of the three to release an album or have a tour so his fans are pissed at the idea that jikook biased fans could have all this stuff and they might get nothing.

(Also, something could be said about how for a lot of people shipping is about their bias being a part of something. Especially in the context of a very well established (by fans) love triangle like it's the case for vminkook. A lot of fans just hate the idea of their bias being the love interest that wasn't picked in the end, the one excluded from this especial (and very popular and talked about) relationship. They love the idea of their bias being 'chosen', especially if it's over a member they don't like, more than they love the actual ship.)

Note how Tae fans aren't nearly as bothered by Jin having a version of Run BTS just to himself, or outnumbering the size of Tae's discography even though Jin was the last to release an album, or him being the first vocal line member to have a tour. But they're pissed at jikook for having their own version of BV, and at Jimin for having two albums, and at Jungkook for possibly having a tour. It's because of that ingrained maknaeline comparison I talked about.

I think that even aside from shipping people are jealous of jikook biased fans because we're getting a whole second season of a 9h long show where our biases are on screen 90% of the time. For a few years now fans have been pretty starved from content that just let's them see their bias on camera for a extended period of time.

I 100% think that’s what was going on lmao. ARMYs were getting increasingly agitated about the lack of substantial OT7 content or member interactions post-enlistment after waiting all this time. But then you had Jikook as these massive outliers. Not only did we get Jikook moments throughout their enlistment, we had AYS, all of their discharge content, the photobooth pics, JMs IG posts, THEN they went ahead and filmed a whole second season of AYS (and that being the first thing they wanted to do when they got back 😭 and maybe their only solo content for a minute? wow).

Also Jikook at Jin’s concert were really something else. And I know some ARMYs were hoping for other member interactions instead of jkk because half the hit twts on my timeline were talking about JK being pouty that Jin asked Jimin to sing instead of him (an entirely made up scenario?) versus anything about the Jikook moments that actually happened. You could just tell some people were over it lol.

So yeah, ARMYs haven’t just been waiting on new music, they’ve also been waiting to see BTS interact and more substantial variety content in general because that’s definitely a huge part of the appeal (and I missed it too, don’t get me wrong!). But when that wasn’t happening and Jikook were kind of going crazy instead, definitely some saltiness from parts of the fandom. tkkrs try to put AYS down as “company content” but literally who wouldn’t want an entire show of your biases interacting and having fun, a show that they clearly enjoyed and wanted to keep doing? 😭 It’s a huge win for Jikook lovers, I can’t wait (seriously, as a fan if you’d rather it be a “private trip” that’s probably a sign that you need to take a step back and out of shipping because you’re too over invested in it.).

Fans really miss stuff like Bon Voyage and instead of getting that (and with it getting to see their bias) like a lot of them thought they would now that's it's finally 2025 (aka BTS year) they're just getting another season of "The Jikook Show (Your Fave Not Included*)".

"The Jikook Show (Your Fave Not Included*)" made me cackle lmao, probably how a lot of people viewed it and definitely the reason for the lack of enthusiasm from some. Also to your point I was in the quotes of the translation about Jin saying he would do an episode of RunJin for Jimin because I thought it was super cute, but it was full of ARMYs actually pushing for Run BTS instead, so yeah. A lot of people want OT7 content, not OT2 content (or only OT2 if it includes their bias).

That OT7 live healed the fandom a lot though. ARMYs now have the reassurance that BTS are back and fully committed to the group, that they might actually be all in on focusing on the group album for the foreseeable future. There were also a lot of cute moments between all the members, typical BTS touchiness, general OT7 good vibes like JH throwing himself across furniture because Jimin said something vaguely funny. So I think people will get a little more normal about Jikook now that the balance is starting to be restored and they know they have OT7 content and other member interactions (plus music!!!) to look forward to. Because idk about anyone else but things were definitely getting weird from my perspective. In a way though it also just makes it easier for people to ignore Jikook and downplay their closeness, which was getting harder to do prior to this live, so I’m sure some are happy about that as well, but you know-

there's this ingrained comparison of the maknaeline members in people's mind that makes it so they think that anytime a maknaeline member gets something that something was 'stolen' from another maknaeline member who could have had it instead.

Interesting perspective and write-up about the ML and I agree with you! They’ve definitely always been compared and pitted against each other the most. Even outside of shipping, they're the three most popular members with the most amount of solo stans who are always trying to prove who is the best, most popular, biggest impact etc. Looking back on some of the discourse from CH2, it’s clear that a lot of ARMYs have internalized that competition and comparison too, thus the frustration about TH’s numbers or the whole guest thing. I still remember all the weird comments after FACE about “just wait until tkk debut!” that always felt shady to JM and felt weird coming from ARMYs.

When TH didn’t meet these invisible standards that the fandom set for him (standards literally based off of jkks success) people acted like he was done dirty even though he did the 3rd best in the group and his numbers were objectively good. It was clear that the injustice to them was that he didn’t do as well as Jikook specifically, and that’s such an odd line of thought, because why exactly was TH expected to do as well as them, and why is it unfair if he doesn’t? So yeah, I get what you mean about lumping ML together and having those expectations.

And to your point about “stealing opportunities” it reminds me of that ARMY who made a post about how we’re more likely to get a jkk subunit than tkk at this rate after JM’s KIG challenge. It was such an odd thing to say for multiple reasons, but it’s super weird that someone would act like jkk doing something together has anything to do with tkk, or act like it’s actually stealing opportunities away from other duos? Like what is the thought process here, why does jkk doing something together make you think of other members & subunits you want instead, and why specifically tkk?

Also the whole “guest” discourse was crazy because it should have been such a non-issue and yet like you said it extended to even non-shippers being upset about it. They were upset about his whole portrayal in Jeju actually, not just the guest thing, but how he wasn’t as involved in the show as Jikook were, and how Jikook were kind of synced on a different level (it’s why tkkrs trying to claim that Jeju was a “win” for tkk baffle me when I’ve seen even non-shipper TH biased claim that it was evil company edited to make it seem like TH was a “third wheel”).

From the moment TH was revealed as part of the Jeju trip a lot of ARMYs were treating people calling him a guest like it was the most horrible insult ever. So yeah it’s interesting when you mention that with ML because a lot of ARMYs clearly thought that AYS should be the vminkook show and when that wasn’t the case there was a lot of unhappiness about it and people treating the whole thing like TH was somehow done dirty. All of that discourse despite the fact that there were actually tons of cute moments between vminkook, and Jikook expressed how happy they were he came. But it wasn’t enough for some people because Jikook also made it clear that TH was a guest (in a teasing, playful way) and AYS was their show. Some people really took that personally.

Also, something could be said about how for a lot of people shipping is about their bias being a part of something.

And yeah, definitely this is a big part of it. Honestly it’s pretty common for people to self-insert onto their bias. It’s not just solos and not just serious shippers who are doing that. It’s pretty common for people to be very excited when their bias is getting special attention or appreciation and everyone loves the narrative that their bias in particular is loved and fawned over by the rest of the group, that everyone is a little in love with their bias, multi-shippers who basically ship their bias x every other member (some jkkrs & tkkrs will do that with whichever one they bias). Definitely another form of Y/N-ing. And there's nothing wrong with all that! But I definitely agree that partially because of that, when some people feel like their bias is being left out of something, they take it personally and start acting weird about it.

And the whole ML thing is extra charged even if you’re not a shipper just because of shipping. If it seems like one of them is being left out the narrative is always extra nasty because of ship fights. That’s probably why some people are so defensive and sensitive about any ML trio interactions and them being "equally close" even if they’re not a shipper. It’s like for instance I don’t think I saw even one yoonkook interaction at Jin’s concert. We all know that doesn’t mean literally anything negative about yoonkook at all because we have actual brains, but if that had been vminkook? Ugh, could you imagine the drama and the types of narratives that would have been thrown around? tkkrs still say that JM was third-wheeling on a live where it was revealed that JK was going to JMs room three times a day and where they literally arrived after eating together? 😭

I know all of this is not that serious and just kind of chronically online discourse lol, but I still can’t help yapping about it sometimes because it’s a weird and frustrating experience as a Jikooker or Jikook biased sometimes. I’ve always enjoyed fandom but trying to find a comfortable spot in the BTS fandom has been tough to say the least. I definitely have zero expectations for the fandom to acknowledge Jikook at this point though. The closer they are the more some types of people pull back from hyping them out of weird jealousy. On the other hand, the non-weird chronically online ARMYs have been hyping Jikook more, like you’ll see it occasionally maybe on somewhere like reddit sometimes. It’s just that the types of people who are invested enough to run stan accounts are sometimes also the types of people who are heavily biased and internalize everything and also tend to be shippers.

[autaemra]

A Mystery Reading 4 YoU ☆

PILE 1

there is an air of indecision around you. you want a change, but you can't decide. so you stagnate, even though you are unhappy with your current circumstances. kind of like a 'better the devil you know than the devil you don't' vibe. but rather, you feel an immense pressure on you, like, in every area of your life, you feel pressure coming at you from all directions and you're just taking it all on, taking it all in. but you don't need to be. it's like you'd rather take on all of these burdens and bear the heavy load rather than just pausing and making at least one decision, one tiny decision. even if it's as simple as 'i'll do the laundry tomorrow instead of today'. like you won't even give yourself the time to stop and take stock of things.

but you want to, i really feel you want to make a change. i keep hearing 'i just want to make a change' from Oh No! by Marina and the Diamonds. now i'm hearing 'welcome to the family jewels' by Marina and the Diamonds. is this perhaps something learned from family? like just ploughing on through life, taking on too much, even if it's not what you want and it's making things more difficult for you in the long run? i feel a sense of defeat here, but you can move out of this energy pile 1! doing things that will shake up your energy could really benefit you at this time. i understand we all have things to do in our daily lives and responsibilities we need to see to, but where you can, i feel like if you did something not on your to-do list, something that you never usually do, something random it it would be really helpful for you. and it doesn't need to take long, like idk, listening to a song you've never listened to before, from a genre you never listen to, maybe even a genre you dislike lol or just do 30 jumping jacks randomly or go for a walk down a street you've never been down before.

anything that will take you out of your daily routines and into a completely new and fresh energy, no matter how big or small will be helpful for you. and aiming to incorporate this into your life on a regular basis, until you're able to take that energy and apply it to the bigger things that you feel indecisive about for you to see more change in your life, the big changes you want. there's also a need for bringing in light-hearted energies into your life too and remembering to take a break from your burdens. the lighter hearted energies will help to loosen up some of those burdens and allow you to more easily take a look at them and see if they're things that you even need to be carrying around.

like are you carrying around other peoples expectations of you because it came from them once upon a time or is it now coming from you? i promise you, you can make the time to pause and think about things, even if it's only a few minutes each day, even if it's uncomfortable (this often brings about the most profound change!) because i know you want a change, i feel you need to feel the spice of your life again! whatever that is for you, but i currently sense a numbness from you from all this pressure - babes you aren't a pressure cooker, open the lid a lil and let the steam release little by little so you can lighten up and move with a sense of clarity - yeah! when all the steam dissipates, you will be left with a beautiful clarity that will allow you to see your way and move into your desired changes more decisively. thank you for reading, peaces and love to you ᯓ★

PILE 2

hmmm pile 2 what is it that you are keeping to yourself? you're sitting on a treasure trove! i'm picking up on stagnant energy, but this is coming from you. LOL you're stubborn af (lovingly, taurus energy haha). you're the one causing this stagnancy, and it's to keep yourself 'safe and secure' is what i'm hearing. pile 2 you are meant to be out here sharing what you've got, i am picking up on spiritual gifts, i keep being taken to psychic talents and being a teacher to others in this field. maybe you want to to readings for others too? on tumblr? on youtube? do it! whatever it is you have that you are keeping to yourself currently, you are meant to share it with others, you are meant to be seen my pile 2's!

i also was seeing someone not wanting to open up to new friendships/relationships and also someone not wanting to open up sexually. of course, i ain't out here trying to pressure anyone to do anything!! but if you want to and you know you want to open up to people more intimately, then it is for you. i feel you've been hurt in the past you now that you've 'got all your eggs in a basket' i'm hearing (i swear the quote is all your eggs in a row but whtv) you're like ok i'm all good now. lol. like you're just gonna live your life holding back all your treasures cuz you've finally got yourself in order, but that's not the way pile 2 you know iiiiiittttttttt!!! c'mon lol. life moves in cycles, nothings ever really just a one and done. like, we open up, we get hurt, we heal, we open up, we love etc etc. we learn as we go on, and i know if we've been hurt in the past there is that apprehension to open up again, but just know how strong you are and how far you've come and all the things you've learnt on your journey. if you get hurt again, you know how to heal, you're a different you now pile 2, not the you from the past, not the you who didn't now how to take care of themselves, not the you who was running around like a headless chicken (LMAO idk what's up with all the hen analogies for you).

you're a baddie!!!! lol Spirit wants you to know this (yes!). you're so wise, so intelligent, witty, sharp, you've got a great sense of humour - you are charming pile 2! and you gotta let yourself shine, shine your golden light! show the world your treasure, no one's gonna take it from you! we just wanna have a look and appreciate it with you lol! i love your energy it's making me laugh - you're making me laugh pile 2 - see your charms are working on me haha. you're cheeky! omg your energy reminds me of Jung Wooyoung from ATEEZ (idk if you're into kpop lol) but he's literally like a naughty cat, but you can't help but love him, even though if you don't really know him he can come off as abrasive and kinda mean - this might be something that you've struggled with, but that's just the way he shows his love for someone, he teases a lot. but yes pile 2, don't be afraid to open up. i don't even know you and you've got me giggling and smiling whilst reading your energy lmao! i love it! like i feel all bubbly and giddy inside, like your energy feels like golden bubbles popping in my belly - sounds weird asf but that's what i'm feeling haha. my sweet pile 2's, stop holding yourself back and do the world a favour and open up please! we need more people like you out here, you make the world a better place, truly. (i seriously love people like you!!! you're my fave kind of people♡) thank you for reading, peaces and loves to you ᯓ★

PILE 3

i first heard 'working on relationshiiiippssss' but in donkey's voice from shrek when he's singing 'you gotta try a little tenderness' LMAO. i feel you've really been working on your relationships in your life. like, you've been learning a lot about them, your connection with people, learning from past relationships too. there's a transformation in the way you are connecting with others in your life now. i hear 'i've got it down to a science' haha, i'm feeling mercurial energies here. i'm seeing someone learning about love languages and attachment types and listening to podcasts and working on emotional intelligence. though i feel it's all tying in and coming back to spirituality. like, you can step back and take the bigger picture look at everything and see how all of your connections, past and present have played out/are playing out and why.

i'm seeing someone having an understanding and acceptance of why this friendship didn't work out or why this family member always caused so much friction, i'm hearing soul contracts now. i feel you can sense now which ones have been fulfilled and however they ran their course, you have this beautiful understanding of it all - you are standing in your light - and light is information - and you have accepted what has been and you are moving into what shall be in your connections in love and with 'open heart' i'm hearing. pile 3 this is amazing! like, you're flowing on an open breeze, you're moving through energies 'as intended' i'm hearing from Spirit. because this is how things were designed in life. experiencing something whether 'positive' or 'negative' and then moving through it to transmute the energy, learn the lesson and head onto the next is the flow and you're doing it! so hats off to you pile 3! because most people have the experience and then get stuck in the energy of the experience (no shade cuz me aswell lol) which stops that flow, but i see you'e moved out of that - particularly in regards to your connection with others in you life so you should really be proud of yourself, Spirit sees your hard work and is applauding you!

i also was picking up on this approach to connections expanding into your work life, your career. i'm seeing two things. one is that you are working in a more 'spiritually aligned field' now, which allows you to connect to people in a more genuine way, like the new tools you've learnt to connect with people wouldn't be deemed 'weird' or out of place in this new field and i'm hearing someone give a huge sigh of relief here lol. the second is that you aren't working in a 'spiritually aligned field' but you want to, or you want to work in a field where 'organic human connection is valued' i'm hearing - whatever that means for you. and so you're moving towards that.

i'm also seeing that for some, if you are working in a more 'normal' field, like let's say an office job, then you are wanting to bring in the new knowledge you have into the workplace. like, you'd be that person asking your superiors to introduce mindfulness practices in the workplace and suggesting trying out breath work during break times with your team or assigning work tasks to your colleagues based on their birth charts - things like that. blending aquarian concepts with piscean concepts, fitting as we are in the cusp currently, moving into the age of aquarius from the age of pisces. doing the work! thank you for reading, peaces and loves to you ᯓ★

PILE 4

'choose your battles wisely' is what i first heard. i feel two energies for this pile. one is you defending someone else and the other is you defending yourself.

for the energy of you defending someone else, i feel this is coming from a place of love and protection, you want no harm to come this person's way i'm hearing 'you don't want to get their hands messy' so you'll be the one to do it, but pile 4, you don't need to do this. i feel you want this person to shine and be in their limelight without any disruptions or distractions, but there are times in life when one must 'fight their own battles' and nobody else can interfere in this. it is only something one can do for themselves, for they ultimately signed up to do so. and also, every soul who has incarnated here on earth at this current time are fucking troopers LOL. earth is a difficult place to be! it's where souls come to learn and there are soooo many ways it can go, but we all chose to come here anyway, for growth.

no matter who someone is or what they choose to do with their time here on earth, the game needs all it's players. the game needs the players, the observer's, the coaches, the fans, we all are important in the game. and at some point, we all play each role in our own lives. pile 4, i feel you might be trying to take on the player role for the person you are defending when that is not your role to take currently. you are to take a different role, perhaps be the observer or the coach, but not the active player. that is their role to take, not yours. also, although i know it is not your intention, but as you are attempting to defend this person, you are actually underestimating them and subconsciously, signalling to them that you think they're weak, that they can't handle themselves. which is not true! it's not true for them and i know it's not the truth of how you seen them either! but in this 'defending someone else energy' it takes us away from seeing the sovereignty in every soul, the mightiness every soul possess and imo, just being incarnated here on earth shows me enough how powerful of a soul one is cuz it gets tough down here with all the illusions, the distortions and such. this is a time for this person to learn a lesson for themselves, to grow and expand in their 'own battle' i know you love them and want what's best for them and to do that, currently, you must step back and take on your appropriate role. i also feel for this situation, that in your defensive energy, you may not be able to see clearly that the situation for this person is not as dire is it appears, they will be ok, you will be ok, there is nothing to worry about here, it may be challenging, but it's all for the best for all involved, truly.

for the energy of you defending yourself, i feel it is coming across as you protecting your light. i feel early in your life you got projected onto a lot, especially when you shined your light, you were made to feel bad about it because those around you didn't know how to access their own light, they weren't used to light, so they tried to dim yours to feel comfortable again. but over time, you let those projections in, took them on and dimmed your own light. over the years i feel you got very defensive about yourself and rightfully so tbh cuz you've been tested! but now, you're in a position where you are ready to shine your light again, ready to show yourself and open up (and congrats to you you're doing amazing!!!) but that ol' defence mechanism is automatically being triggered for things it isn't warranted for.

for example, perhaps you're an illustrator and you post your art online and someone comments on it saying 'i love your bold use of colours in this piece!' and you read that and get all down and defensive cuz in the past someone told you that 'your use of bold colours looks like a child coloured that in' or some silly bullshit and now you feel triggered, thinking that commenter meant to insult you within that comment but they don't babes! you just have that negative association with that because of the past, it doesn't belong in your present, transmute it!!! reprogram yourself to take in that comment, as it is, no 'hidden agendas' and lovingly eat it the fuck up!

i also feel you may over explain yourself or overly try to explain why or how your light shines and why it's allowed etc and i feel this is due to people being overly critical towards you in the past, but babes the minute you shine your light, no words need to be spoken. we can all see it, it speaks for itself. you are so talented, you are so wonderful, it's almost unbelievable that anyone so amazing has been made to feel any other type of way cuz!!! wow pile 4! you shine, you shine gold, you shine great you shine divinely - yes!!!!

ahhh this reminds me of i think it was a post performance interview with amy winehouse where she's leaving , interviewer asks her questions, amy says her performance was shit (it wasn't LOL) and tells the interviewer she looks fit in her dress though LMAO i really feel like that's you! like you'll do something so amazing and then be overly self critical or down play it. nooooooo! stand in your shine! though i am really proud of you cuz i know you've been shining and sharing your light regardless, but i feel Spirit is showing you now as you continue on where you can ease up on yourself and where you can shine without needing to defend yourself cuz you're not surrounded by those who don't appreciate you anymore, by those who actively put you down and if any neggys are around, you don't have to let in what they say. you have so many waiting to see you shine and who will love and uplift you all the way through, so make sure you see those people and let their energy in to uplift you and help you transmute all the past hurts, this will really give you a big boost in healing, and allow you to ease your defences and apply your loving discernment first before activating your defensive side moving forwards.

that's the two energies i felt for my pile 4's - you've got this hunny's!!! thank you for reading, peaces and loves to you ᯓ★

[inhurtandincomfort]

Forsaken: Chapter I

The Price He Paid

CW: Off-screen minor character death, implied/referenced death of an infant, implied eye gore, briefly implied/referenced noncon

Note: Although the start begins with mentioning he was 14, he's 23 here! That bit's just how it all started.

Eldwin’s body did not belong to him.

He’d known that from as young as fourteen years old, when the brand burned hot on his skin. An intricate design, a permanent symbol of what he was. Whose he was. Ownership hidden beneath gloves of fine silk or rough leather.

It was when he was fourteen that he met a stranger on the train tracks, and a promise was made. Regret instantly flooded him as he stared at the searing mark, but there was no going back. A deal was struck, and his life would never be the same.

When he looked up, the stranger was already gone.

*+*

“Hello Parker.”

The man – John Parker, 32. Recently widowed – stared at him in horror. It was a look Eldwin saw often these days; it was only natural when someone stands before you covered in blood, and you know that you're next. Eldwin tilted his head to one side, patiently waiting for Parker to find his words.

“What have you done!?” Another common reaction. Eldwin almost sighed, but refrained. He was a professional, after all.

He chose not to answer. Instead, he asked a question of his own. “What do you think?”

Parker gaped at him, his eyes wide with panic. Then he turned and bolted, racing down the dark street as fast as he could go. Eldwin watched him for a moment, before ducking down an alleyway he knew was a shortcut. He didn't need to get there first; what awaited Parker would keep him there for some time.

The front door was already open when Eldwin got there. He sauntered inside, running his hand along the railing as he went upstairs. The smell of blood only got stronger.

“She called for you, you know.” Eldwin leaned on the side of the door frame, his arms folded. Parker stood frozen by the bed. He didn’t make a sound.

There, lay clumsily as if she’d fallen backwards, was a woman with alabaster skin, frazzled hair and painted lips parted with the ghost of her pleas. Empty eye sockets stared at the ceiling leaking trails of blood like tears. One hand was outstretched towards an empty cot, out of her reach.

“Begged you to save her. Save your daughter. She would have made a wonderful mother; in her final moments, despite being in terrible pain, she still tried to comfort her precious girl.”

Parker breathed heavily. A low-pitched wail tore from his throat, a sound no man should even be able to make. Then he turned and launched himself at Eldwin, who remained in the doorway and didn’t move as Parker’s hand enclosed around his throat.

“Where is she!?” Parker demanded, tears streaming down his red cheeks. “What did you do!?”

“Rosie, was it? Don’t worry. You’ll be seeing her soon enough.” Eldwin brought his knee into Parker’s crotch with full force causing him to release his hold with a stream of expletives. A well-placed kick with steel-lined boots sent him crashing to the floor. Eldwin straddled his waist to pin him, earning a scream as he pierced his hand with a dagger, through his palm to the floor. With one hand he pressed a knife to his throat. Black chains sprung from thin air, coiling around Parker’s kicking legs like snakes, painfully tight, squeezing his arms and rendering him immobile. He stifled a whine as Eldwin dug the blade in just enough to draw a trickle of crimson seeping down his neck. “Was it worth it? What did they offer you that you didn’t already have? Sanctuary? Freedom? I thought you were smarter than that.”

“I wanted a new life! Five years contract, I’d be done by the time Rosie’s in school! These people, your people, they’re all monsters, all of them! I thought-” His voice broke off into sobs. Eldwin rolled his eyes. Why he never just killed them quickly, he didn't know. “We would move away, out of the city, away from all this!”

“What a nice thought,” Eldwin said dryly, “But that doesn’t tell me why you thought you could get away with it. You were doing so well. In five years, you could have been an executive, and the world would be at your fingertips. But you’ve gone and thrown it all away.” He retraced the dagger from his neck, twirling it to get a better grip.

“I trusted you,” Parker spat venom despite his quivering voice. “I took pity on you! No wonder you were always alone. You’re the worst of them all!"

“For what it’s worth, I had nothing against you. You brought this on yourself.” He raised the dagger, point reflected in Parker’s terrified pupil. “Perhaps you'll be able to protect your family in your next life."

“Wait, wait wait wait, please!”

Eldwin paused. It wouldn’t hurt to indulge him for a moment. The end result would be the same.

“Rosie,” he said weakly, “Please, she's not here, where is she, you- you can grant me that at lea-”

His eyes glinted in the silver blade. Blood spurted with a curdling scream.

*+*

“You’re late.”

Eldwin dropped to one knee, fist enclosed over his his thumping heart and his head bowed.

“I’m sorry sir,” he replied automatically.

“Silence,” Clyde ordered. “I didn’t tell you to speak.”

You never do. A flash of irritation coursed through him. I’m just somehow supposed to know, and I get punished both for not speaking and for speaking out of turn. He didn’t say that, of course. Never mind the fact that he got his job done, he was late. In a world that expects nothing less than perfection, the smallest error was written down as a failure. A weakness that must be corrected.

“Well? Report.”

It was only a simple job. Frankly, well below his level. “The mission went smoothly,” Eldwin said, careful to keep his tone level. “The targets were killed, all evidence disposed of. It was an easy task; there is nothing else of note.”

“John Parker?”

Yes, he knew who his targets were. “Dead.”

“The wife?”

“Also dead. Do you not trust me?”

Eldwin felt Clyde’s gaze boring into him. “The child.”

Without missing a beat, “Dead.”

Eldwin tensed as Clyde walked from behind his desk to stand directly in him. Cruel fingers grasped his chin, forcing his head up.

"Liar."

The sound of his skin being struck reverberated through the office. His cheek stung, and he resisted the urge to wipe away whatever trickled down his face. He breathed out slowly, determined to not make a sound.

Clyde grabbed a fistful of his hair, yanking his head back. “You didn’t do it, did you? You were too weak to do what was needed.”

“She’s not even a year old!” Eldwin snapped, anger rising within him. He wrenched himself away from Clyde’s grasp. For a long moment he met Clyde’s dull eyes, his own blazing with fury. “What is she going to do? She won’t remember any of this. Both parents are dead, both died believing she was or will be killed. Why do we need to go further?”

He doubled over as a swift kick collided with his stomach, expelling the air from his lungs. No matter how he braced, the effect was the same. A bitter taste filled his mouth with twisting nausea and for a second he thought he would throw up. As he instinctively moved to protect his abdomen another kick to his side sent him crashing inelegantly to the floor. He tried to push himself up, trying to catch some air but all he could do was curl in on himself, arms over to protect his head, knees up to his chest.

“You don’t get to make those decisions!” Clyde landed blow after blow. “You don’t get to question me, think you know better. You. Are. Mine! Your only purpose is to follow my orders!” His voice rose with every word until he was yelling, boiling rage pushing him to his limit. “What did you do with her?” Another hard kick to his ribs. “Answer me!”

“I’m not telling you,” Eldwin managed. He gasped for breath, pulling himself up on all fours. His arms trembled beneath him. Even if he did, Clyde was unlikely to actually do anything. Even he would have to admit there was no point in tracking her down now. It wasn’t about her. It was about Eldwin daring to have a mind of his own. Knowingly and purposefully disobeying his orders. The child would live, but Eldwin was not allowed to make that decision. So he would pay the price.

“Is that so?”

Predictably, Eldwin ended up on the floor again, this time on his back with Clyde’s polished boot planted on his throat. It took every ounce of his willpower to keep his hands by his head while his airways were cut off. His face burned, his lungs fought for oxygen, and he had to stay still. Ignore his body’s most primal instinct. It was easier said than done. But he was experienced.

“You take me for a fool.” Clyde pressed down harder and if his airways weren’t currently being crushed Eldwin might have let out a whimper. Fortunately, Clyde had taken care of that. “I let you have freedom, more than you deserve and mark my words, I can take it back just as easily. If you pull anything like this again, you will regret having taken me for granted, I promise you that.” He let go.

Immediately Eldwin rolled over, coughing and wheezing. He was able to get to his knees. He didn’t dare to stand. He bowed so low the ends of his hair brushed the ground. His body ached. This was only the start, he knew. It would be worse later. At least he didn’t think anything was broken.

“Get up,” Clyde hissed. Eldwin tentatively straightened, unsure if he should stand or not. The decision was made for him when he was roughly pulled up by the collar of his shirt. Clyde kept a tight hold, dragging him down the hall. The office building was mostly empty at the late hour, but there were a few stragglers they passed. Some pointedly didn’t look. Most watched them leave with disdain. It wasn’t an uncommon sight to see. Likely, they wondered why Clyde didn’t have better control over his pet project – it’s not that he couldn’t. He chose not to.

Eldwin often wondered the same thing.

The dark cell was like a second home. In some ways, he preferred it to his nice room at the manor – at least this one looked like a prison. Chains hung from the ceiling, shackles on the wall, and a cabinet with some favourite supplies stood out of reach of any of the restraints.

He wasn’t a minimalist, but he could see the appeal. The dingy, vaguely damp atmosphere had a certain charm.

Clyde shoved him to his knees in the centre. A metal collar lay on the floor, attached to a chain. Longer cuffs hung above him. His arms were pulled taut behind his back, in the cuffs hanging from the ceiling, then he leaned down as much as he could as the collar was secured around his neck. It was a position that was uncomfortable from the start, already tugging on his shoulders. It would be killer later. He had a sneaking suspicion that was probably the point.

A gag was shoved into his mouth, iron bit clinking against his teeth. The gag fitted around his face like a muzzle, with metal inside pinning his tongue so he could not speak. It was one of his least favourite instruments, more so when Clyde attached a thin chain to the back of it, stretching it to attach the other end to his wrists, pulling his head back. Any movement would disturb the gag, scraping and tearing the inside of his mouth while the cuffs around his wrists would rub deep. He had the chains on his wrist trying to keep him up, while the one attached to his collar wanted to drag him to the floor.

Next, black cloth was tied around his head, covering his eyes. Rather pointless, seeing as the room would be dark enough when the door closed, but it made Clyde feel good, and it’s not like Eldwin could say anything anyway.

“You forget your place. You don’t get to make choices, to decide who’s punished, who lives and who dies. I gave you the chance to be useful. Do you know what happens to people who are not useful? Most are killed, or sold. Slaves. Lab rats. The only way they can find some value in their miserable lives. Is that what you want?

“Never forget that my word is the only thing keeping you safe. I have been lenient, but you can only push me so far.” Clyde’s footsteps receded, and his voice was more distant, but no less firm. The loud anger was gone, replaced with a cold, underlying tone that only said danger. “Be grateful for what you’ve been given, and don’t try to be someone you’re not. Think about your actions tonight. Decide whether it was worth it. Because believe me, if this happens again there will be no more chances.”

The room shook as the heavy door slammed shut. Eldwin exhaled slowly. He twisted his wrists, ignoring the stinging pain in his mouth to try in vain for a slightly more comfortable position. The clanking of chains was the only sound to break the stuffy silence. He soon gave up. His body ached with the dull throb of forming bruises – no doubt he’d be decorated by morning. His arms were already growing numb.

Was it worth it. Another question he asked himself a lot. It was easy to say no. Every time he spoke without thinking, immediately regretting it when he saw the expression on Clyde’s face. Every broken bone, every gash through his skin. Every time he nearly suffocated in his own fear, every hard-earned lesson he would still learn to this day, over and over again until it’s drilled into his skull. Every day spent in the lab, coming out feeling nauseous and trembling, unable to get out of bed as his body refused to obey him. Every time he stumbled from someone else’s room, sick to his stomach with an encompassing hollow within, it’s your own fault-

Watching the light drain from someone’s eyes beneath his hands. The rush it gives him, and the accompanying guilt for feeling that way.

Every time he looked in the mirror, and didn’t recognise the person staring back. He would ask himself that very same question – is it worth it, while he takes off his glove and glares at the mark, the reminder of the choice he made. When thinking of that night, the night on the train tracks, he thinks about why. He thinks of bright eyes shining with admiration, the sound of children’s laughter. He remembers the quiet cries at night, from one not knowing they could be heard. The utter helplessness he felt.

Tiny fingers curling in his cloak, unaware of the world they missed.

He wouldn’t linger on that question anymore. He wasn't sure he could accept the answer.

@floral-comet-whump @cepheusgalaxy @violets-whumperflies @watermelons-dont-grow-on-trees @whump-till-ya-jump

[thefirstknife]

The new expansion is going to have some unvoiced lines, isn't it? Would you be able to post about how much/where the lines are when you get it, or share that info from people who do?

Only in some non-English languages. In English, some of the characters will have different voices (different VAs I assume) which they said would be temporary. From the TWID where they announced it:

For our upcoming releases, some voice talent has been unavailable for recordings. For the time being, to ensure a consistent player journey as we launch Destiny 2: The Edge of Fate, certain characters will have different voices in Rite of the Nine or The Edge of Fate content. In some languages, Rite of the Nine content will be silent, and the Edge of Fate will play English voiceover instead. As we did for Destiny 2: Heresy, subtitles for story content will be enabled by default to ensure narrative content is not missed.

We'll see how it'll work, but either way I'm sure DLV will be uploading all content with all lines. Everything should be voiced at least in English, but some voices will temporarily be different. It doesn't specify which languages will force the English voice over, but either way it seems nothing will be silent, you might just get the English voices instead, but subtitles will be enabled for everyone.

[artcalledoddities]

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My father to strike continuously

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