#this was right after chosing the '...' option that I never choose but I didn't want to answer him. and he goes 'how alike we are :)'

[plounce]

what people misunderstand about the hvw patch urianger plotline is that urianger's greatest sin in that arc is not sending minfilia to the first. he didn't actually do that. what he did is set up a confrontation between the wol and ardbert's party without elidibus' knowledge so all the crystals of light from the wol and from ardbert's party would allow them to talk to hydaelyn and minfilia. that is what he did. then he presented his solution to the first and source's dual problem, and minfilia AGREED and so did hydaelyn and so minfilia chose to go over. minfilia was already lost in the sauce. the wol and the scions knew that, they saw her in the antitower as the vessel of hydaelyn as The Word Of The Mother. she was already in there and it wasn't going to be as easy to get her out like they did y'shtola and thancred - or maybe even possible. what he arranged is a meeting that had the ability to conclude in the way he wanted - which was a way for the first to survive, and for no calamity to happen on the source. and in that, he allowed everyone to see minfilia again and speak with her. so he could ask her if she was willing to do that. he didn't punt her over there! because even when he's taking action, he is still a really passive person lmao. but he gave minfilia the option to save two entire worlds, which she was happy to choose to do.

urianger's ACTUAL greatest sin in that arc is alisaie's poisoning by renda-rae's arrow. i don't know if urianger was with the warriors of darkness for that incident or if he was at the waking sands, and i KNOW he was probably horrified to hear about the incident and intensely regretfull and ashamed he wasn't there to stop it (like he stopped ardbert's party in the cutscene after xelphatol later on) but regardless, i don't think their relationship was ever the same after that. which makes me miserable, because right before this is the bahamut coils plot, where alisaie trusts urianger as her scion contact (not alphinaud!) because he's a close family friend, and he obviously respects her so incredibly much (he uses "you" for her!) and is so distressed when he sees her (and alphinaud) all beat up after the final coil. they never act very close after 3.4, aside from urianger presenting her with a custom-made rapier and a prophecy before she sets sail to kugane in stormblood. i think that is in part meant as an apology (and also so alisaie has an easier time casting), but they never really team up again like they did in the coils plot. this probably isn't intentional on the part of the writers, but it's an absence that feels conspicuous to me. when your childhood babysitter almost gets you killed.

[deonsx]

How Did You Meet Them?

Feat: Dazai, Chuuya,Fyodor

Dazai Osamu

• This was definitely not a coincidence and he was the first one to notice you, it was never difficult for him to get the woman he wanted, after all, he is really a handsome brunette with curly brown hair, tall height, quick wit, sensual words and two brown orb eyes that shine like gold

• You first met him at the cafe under the agency, or rather, you came to get coffee with your friend, you didn't even have to think about what exactly to do to attract his attention. While you were waiting, he took your number from you and placed a kiss on your hand. That day, he made you think that he was a very gentleman, so you gave him the number easily

"When I first saw your mother, I said 'This is the woman I was looking for" ~Fifteen Years Later

Chuuya Nakahara

• Of course, he wasn't the one who made the first move, Chuuya is a man who doesn't pay that much attention to his surroundings and doesn't look for love. His priorities are his career and himself. Since he isn't looking for a love life, it will take him a long time to like someone

• You met him absolutely randomly. One day, you were waiting for your bus, following your usual routine, but since it didn't arrive, you were already late for your destination, and you sat on the road and waited, not knowing what to do. Since you were waiting at the traffic lights, a biker standing there caught your attention, and as a last resort, you came right next to him

• "I'm sorry for the inconvenience. Can you drop me off at my **** workplace on your way? I'm already late. Please, my only option is...-" The biker opened the eye part of his helmet while the lights were still burning red, his eyebrows furrowed as his eyes looked like they were penetrating his soul "Well..I'm sorry-" interrupted him "Get in quickly"

"That's how lucky I met your mother” ~Fifteen Years Later

Fyodor Dostoyevski

• We have come to the most difficult person...yes, you will not be able to meet him, he will meet you and no, this cannot be a coincidence..it cannot be because he does not leave his house, works all the time and is awake every day without sleep, so he will definitely choose you as a victim, unfortunately, this is the highest probability

• The possibility of an enemy to love relationship is high, but he definitely chose you first to use you and then gave up on it, but it is impossible to know the reason, you cannot understand that he is in love with you, even his way of flirting would be by reading poems or playing the cello for you

"Back in the day, your mother used to listen to the music I played with pleasure" ~ Fifteen Years Later

Enjoy!

[autistichalsin]

NO BUT LISTEN TO ME!!!

HALSIN'S FUCKING EPILOGUE KILLS ME! BECAUSE! Not only do you see how much he is healing, but you also see how much healing he still has left to do!!!

Take this line if the player joins him at the commune:

"Tell me... are you happy with the path we tread together? I took you from a life of high adventure, to one that can be described as anything but. I thought perhaps that seeing everyone once again, and hearing of all that they have been doing... it might awaken some regret, about the life we lead. You could have done anything, gone with anyone... yet you chose me."

That one statement conveys so much. So much doubt and insecurity. He still doesn't view himself as particularly worth settling down for; and in fact, secretly worries the player is (or will soon discover themselves to be) miserable at it. He has a remarkably modest nature, yes, but this is a step beyond. Even with the player's love and kindness, he is in a similar state to that first romance scene, where he thought one little mistake (wildshaping on accident) would make the player leave him forever. Here, too, he's terrified the player will discover the "truth", that they never actually wanted him, and might even leave him. :(

After the player reassures him:

"Forgive me. This past while has been so idyllic that I almost fear something must go wrong. A fear I shall overcome, trust me. We are amongst friends, in celebration."

"I almost fear something must go wrong."

People with PTSD experience this one a lot. Why are things going so well? What's about to go wrong? He acknowledges he will heal in time, but he still isn't there yet.

"I am glad to hear it. Forgive an old fool in need of a little reassurance. I am still expecting to stir from the dream."

Same as the above. He's waiting to find that none of it is real, that he's still trapped at the Grove in utter isolated misery.

Other dialogues, when meeting up with either a romanced player who didn't go with him, or with a friend player:

"Perhaps that is so for you, but for me? It may be that a peaceful life after so many years of tumult has made me sentimental."

Acknowledging the years of tumult, and the effect they had on him, while also noting the good changes the last six peaceful months have brought him.

"You are right, of course. I am accustomed to dwelling on the past, even when it brought me nothing but unhappiness. You changed that, and gave me the most precious of memories."

This one is one of the most profound of all, especially because Halsin, so many times, tells the player not to regret things, to focus on making a future together, etc. But when it comes to his own traumatic memories, he is still unable to stop dwelling on some of them- "even when it (brings him) nothing but unhappiness."

He's done so much healing in his six months at the commune; you can already tell what a new, happier person he is. He even brings up that his restless, roaming nature has settled now that he has a place he belongs. But you can also see where the traumas have left deeper scars on him that will take much, much longer to heal.

(... And this is why I will NEVER choose any dialogue option for the romanced epilogue EXCEPT FOR "I chose you for a reason, and have never looked back." This man deserves to hear it at least a dozen times a day for the rest of his life. :( )

[preciouslittlebhaalbabe3]

Thoughts about Ascended Astarion! (This is a long one, and I'm not trying to change anyones opinion, just highlighting the fact that the player is in complete control of the situation at all times. This game is about choices.) First off, I don't usually prefer to ascend him. But I love all versions of Astarion. His character is so well written and all of his arcs deserve praise and attention no matter what your personal opinion of them are. The devs did an incredible job. If any parts of his arc (ascended or spawn) make you uncomfortable, then romancing him isn't for you. If the dynamic between AA and your character makes you feel scared or upset, don't ascend him. That dynamic is supposed to be 100% consentual. He's a tough nut to crack and his story can be very triggering. I myself broke down a few times hearing him talk about what he went through. There are other companions with lovely character development that you can choose. When people go "ugh he's ruined I didn't want this" My dear, with all due respect. This is the dark fantasy romance option. Emphasis on the fantasy. You didn’t get his approval by being nice. It's not like he's the only option. You chose to romance the vampire. The game warns you of what exactly you're about to do multiple times. You willingly help him murder thousands of people for freedom. A vampire who was a literal slave for longer than he was even alive for just got a MASSIVE amount of power. Were you expecting he was gonna just be a good guy now? He has had NOTHING for so long. His entire life trajectory changed within moments. He’s still figuring himself out. You as the player are still completely in charge. He owes everything to you and he knows that. You can walk away at literally any point. He asks you to kneel and obey to establish trust and a dynamic. To confirm this is what you want. YOU CAN SAY NO. Then, he gets right down on the floor with you. He's either gentle or rough based on your choice. If you don't like the vibe just break up with him at that point like he literally lets you do. Or, even just reload the save. But just remember. "That's what you want, isn't it?". When Astarion ascends, Neil says it best. His mask is off and he's allowed to be at his most terrible with no fear. He doesn't have to perform or be aloof as a distraction from the pain anymore. He was never good aligned. But now, he has the power and ability to give himself and his favourite person the life he thinks they wanted. Otherwise why would you ascend him? His love language becomes acts of service and gifts. He ADORES tav to almost obsession. He's always doting on them and calling them his. The ritual only amplifies that. "but what about what he says if you convince him not to go through with it?"

He’s not lying. He knows tav saved him from himself. It is technically the “good” ending. But that’s not what matters here. The ascension is for characters who are not good aligned. It is for characters that are just as much of a power hungry monster as ascended Astarion is. They want to be a monarch that rules the world over. It’s a role playing thing. Is it wrong? That’s for you to decide for yourself. Not others.

"but what about karlach? He's a massive jackass to her when he ascends" ...Yes. He's not a good guy. Karlach is basically the goodest character in the game. It won't work. And if you do break up with him, he lashes out and says some extremely hurtful things. Because you just broke his heart. It's a perfectly normal response from someone being completely blindsided. He thought you wanted this. You said you wanted this. After everything you both did you get here, he feels betrayed. Not even to mention ascended Astarion does not make you just a regular spawn. You quite literally become his vampire spouse. He thanks you for putting your trust in him. Then eventually you become a true vampire with time. He wants to make sure tav doesn't go insane after being turned. If you wanna learn more about vampire spouses in DnD I highly reccomend doing some google searches. It's fascinating. Is ascending him the right thing to do? No, but it's not "wrong". The game doesn't work that way. Is keeping him a spawn the right thing to do? Maybe, if your character thinks it is. Either route has their sets of pros and cons. It's up to you which ones you think work for your playthrough.

I almost always convince him not to go through with the ritual. But ascended Astarion + durge is a power couple and the vibes are immaculate for evil runs. Just have fun with the game! The devs made all these character arcs for you to explore! Thanks for reading <3

[bubbles-for-all-of-us]

Always have but never hold

Previous chapter

a/n Welcome to the tenth and final part. Do tell me if you think this should go on. I'm at the crossroads. Not too fully sure where to go on with this from here. These two have had a journey so had I. Thank you for everyone who tagged along. 🤍✨

warnings: nightmares, overwhelming feelings, past trauma, miscommunication (should have been a warning from the start lol).

Parts in cursive are flashbacks.

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

How surreal is the concept of meeting someone and having them change your life forever? Finding a soul that radiates the same energy, or at least the energy that attracts you. Feeling drawn to them. Craving to bask in the warmth of their presence because it just feels right. Because it feels true. Because it feels safe. And you can't help it. No matter what. No matter the obstacles. No matter the fears. That person's soul is there, and all you want to do and think about is how you can't let them go. It was weird. Everything still felt so confusing. It was surreal at times when you would wake up in your old bed, cuddled up between the sheets that you both used to lay under. All the what-ifs and why-not, questioning the choice of staying. Choosing to grow and forgive to allow someone to stay.

Carmen walked through the door. A neatly wrapped package of food was in his hands. He started doing that a lot—bringing food home from family. And not just leftovers, not just something that someone didn't eat. A whole, fully intentional meal. The apartment seemed too silent, and at first, anxiety kicked in—that same anxiety of losing. But the dull light from the living room soon chased those thoughts away. And that's when he saw you. A knitted blanket over your body. Book in your hands, the smell of the scented candles filling the room. And then there were your eyes. The gaze that found him. And Carmen was smiling, soaking up the sight in front of him.

"You're home early", you said as Carmen quickly shrugged off his jacket. "Yeah, not much we could do today. Plus, I had a meeting with the doctor". You close the book, sit up, and allow Carmen some space on the sofa. "How did it go?", the past couple of weeks have felt pretty much like a daze. After an endless amount of tears and conversations, you agreed to move back in with Carmen. Marcus had flown back to Copenhagen alongside Luca. Meaning that you would have to pay for the place you had been renting on your own. And that wasn't an option because you were already tight on money. Was Luca excited to leave you alone in Chicago? No, he was not, but he chose to not fight your choice too much.

"Just be sensible", he said, "Both with your choice and yourself", you hugged him tightly. Letting go of your lifeline felt weird. It left you vulnerable. Fully exposed to the cold world around you. But you knew that you couldn't hide behind Luca forever. "You know that I love you, right?", he muttered, pulling away slightly. "Us against the world forever", you looked at him. Truly look at the man in front of you. The person who jumped in to save you so many times. Who took the hit meant for you. Who drove for hours to get to you. Who sat in the doctor's office with you. "Do you think this is a mistake?", you asked him, but there was no suggestive reaction on Luca's face as he said, "Listen to your heart and then consult with your brain just in case", you had chuckled at his words before you pulled away.

And now you are here with Carmen. Unsure of what status you two held. Partners? Lovers? Exes? Strangers? Sitting in the apartment, which had been clear evidence of Carmen's pain. The distraction painted the apartment in a heap of mess. "I didn't like it. I mean, I never do", Carmen ran his hands through his hair. "It still feels strange. But people... like, I don't know, do they eventually stop finding it weird?", he asked you. Considering that you both were in therapy now, recapping and running through your conversations with doctors was something you did a lot. Strangely, you found comfort in it.

"I don't think you do", you whispered after a moment. "Picture it like this. Does it ever get easier to tell strangers that something in your life fucked you over so much that now you need to see a doctor?", you both snickered, and Carmen moved to open up the boxed food. It felt almost as if you were roommates once again. Just differently from that time in New York, you didn't want one to move out. You were fighting to make this work. To keep one another. To grow the roots that would hold you together.

"How was the art gallery?", you looked up at him in a way surprised that he even remembered. "Exciting. They want me to work on a project with them", you said as if it was nothing. But Carmen's eyes were big, and you could feel true joy in them. "Wait! That's awesome. That's... I'm proud of you", he muttered. You watched him. His sparkly eyes now reminded you of the time he sneaked into an art tour you were doing back in New York. Asking just the right questions. Making the lazy tourists roll their eyes. But your heart had been so full. "I'm meeting with them this Friday for dinner", you said. "Maybe they'll change their minds till then", you shrugged, reaching for the pasta in front of you. "They won't", Carmen said, making you chuckle, "You don't know that", "I know that you're awesome", you sucked in a breath as you watched him for a moment. Letting his words truly sink in.

Carmen's been watching you for a while now. Not in a creepy way, though. He was just mesmerized by how someone was capable of looking so beautiful even while fast asleep. You two had decided to watch a show after dinner. He knew you wouldn't last long. You never did. Getting sleepy almost immediately. The distance between you two seemed astronomical, yet you were only a couple of feet away. Sat at the other end of the sofa. Carmen wished he could hug you. No, he would have settled for anything. But then he at least wanted to feel your body heat. Anything to let him know that this wasn't just all in his head. That you weren't just a cruel joke of his imagination. Carmen watched your eyebrows crinkling up—another bad dream, he thought. And within moments, even while still asleep, you looked so much smaller. So much more powerless as the demons lurking in the shadows took over. Carmen wasted no time scooting closer to you, his fingers brushing the hair away from your face. A scared cry left your lips, and it was as if Carmen's body was working on autopilot. His arms sneaked around your middle as he pressed his chest against your back, bringing you closer to him. Your fingers reach out to grasp his arms. "I've got you", he muttered, "You're safe here. I'll keep you safe". His face was nuzzled in your hair as he spoke. A loud gasp filled the room as your body jerked up, only to fall against Carmen's chest. You let out a shaky breath as you tightened Carmen's hold around you. Afraid you might fall. Afraid you might crumble if he lets go. "Stay", you whispered, holding onto him even tighter. "I was not planning on going anywhere", Carmen muttered, kissing your shoulder.

"I like the black plates. He, of course, has zero opinion until he suddenly has so many opinions that I feel like I will have a whiplash", Sydney said in frustration over the phone. You giggled slightly at how she never failed to call you every time Carmen got on her nerves. "Do the gray one and meet him in the middle", you suggest, dunking your brush into the paint before adding new strokes to the canvas. "Grey, they only have grey with blue", Sydney growls, "I give up". You drop the brush into the water jug. "You want me to come down? Look through it?", you ask her softly. You've been away from the restaurant ever since the fire. Well, not fully away considering that Sydney had turned to your daily reporter, but still. You hadn't put your foot down on that property. "I... You're busy. I don't want to bother you", she dragged out. "I'll be down in a bit. Hold the front line till then, Syd", you told her before hanging up.

It felt almost like a flashback as you made your way down to the restaurant. Flashbacks of your heading there with Carmy right after the funeral. The times you ran up and down the street for nearby deliveries. The times you stood outside with him, just holding his hands and breathing. The times you smoked outside trying to fight your own overwhelming emotions. You never hated the concept of the restaurant. Quite the opposite; it was an interesting little bubble. You valued Carmy's love for food, even if it wasn't your own. Well, a lie. You learned to love food from him.

"Okay, hold it like this", he said, standing right behind you and guiding your hands. Showing you how to cut properly. "Don't use the tips of your fingers to hold", he said, carefully moving your fingers to a proper position. "And then you do that fast shit? Chop, chop, chop", Carmy lets out a low laugh at your impression. Turning to kiss the side of your head, "Maybe no chop, chop just yet. Get used to cutting veggies like this first. The speed of it will come with practice". You made a sad face before saying, "You do it then; it's captivating", you handed Carmen the knife, resting your face in your hands as you watched him do his thing with a light smirk on his face.

Carmen was feeling his anxiety beating right into his ribcage. The people around him were too loud. Too demanding. He felt like the sounds around him were slowly suffocating him. Ruthlessly dunking his head under the water. Keeping him under even as his lungs ran out of oxygen. All he heard was Carmy this and Carmy that. It felt like one of those torture techniques where your libs were tight to different horses, each pulling you to all four different sides. Carmen didn't have answers to the questions people were demanding. He simply didn't know, and now...

"What's all the shouting for?", and that's all it takes. It feels as if everything around him dies down. His lungs now easily welcomed the air around him. Mind slowing down. He lets out a deep sigh as his eyes fall over your frame. Hair up in a messy bun, the one that he loved so much, with loose pieces framing your face. You have one of Carmy's old shirts on. There's a paint stain on it, and for some reason, that makes him smile a little. His salvation. His love. His home.

"My girl", Tina rushes forward, wrapping you up in a tight embrace. "It's been weeks; let me look at you", she cups your face, looking you all over. You can't help but smile at her. Without a doubt, you missed her presence during your weeks away. "You look pale as paper", she says, shaking her head. "I'll make you my mama's soup. I will get you back on your feet", At this point, you're almost convinced that her eyes will not leave you, no matter where you go. "It's not necessarily, Ti", you move to squeeze her hands, but she only huffs, "It's a must, Mi Nino. With a man like that you have to run around", she scoffed Carmy's way, but he only clenched his jaw. Choosing to stay silent. "I'll steal Carmen for a moment and then be out to help", you glance at Sydney reassuringly, watching as her hands full of plates sag at her sides, but you don't let yourself think about it much as you step forward, brushing your fingers against Carmen's wrist before dragging him towards the office.

"You're okay?", you breathed out once the door closed behind you two. It was silent for a moment. Just Carmen's irregular breathing. Your fingers were still intertwined with his, and from the grip Carmy had on them, you knew he had no intention of letting go. "It's just... I just... don't know shit", his voice was barely a whisper. You nod. "Talk to me about it", you mutter. His eyes find you. Talk. Such an easy thing, right? Not to your two lately. But you've both been trying. Trying to not only listen but also hear. See without being asked to. "Yeah, I think I can do that", he says, nodding his head. You brush your fingers through his messy hair, nodding alongside him.

When you emerge from the office, it's a solid hour later. You have sketches in your hands. The idea of the restaurant. Visuals for plating and a whole Pinterest board just for the restaurant vibe itself. Sydney is sitting by the table, her head resting on the surface. A lot had changed while you were away. The place had been closed. At least three walls were missing. There was a mold issue. But mole issues no more... You'll get to that eventually.

"Right, so he wants a classy, sophisticated look. Something that would be good for plating different dishes in", you plop your sketchbook to the table. Reaching for the plate closest to you. "And he couldn't just tell me that?", Sydney huffed, "How do you meet his brain waves?" You let out a chuckle. Oddly enough, you had learned to read Carmy's mind as if it was a book. "So what did he say no to?", you asked her once more. "Amm, let me see. Fucking everything", Sydney gives you a fake smile, and you bit your lip, suppressing a laugh.

With your phone on the side, the mood board opened, you glance from the plaits to the visuals. Quickly making a yes and no line. Sorting everything into different plating arrangements. Mixing pricier pieces with more affordable ones. Pulling up a color palette for different napkin options. Once you were satisfied, you drew your eyes back to Sydney, who stood there with her mouth slightly open. "That's some dark magic shit", she breathed out. "Be careful; it might turn you into a frog", you shimmy your fingers in front of her face before pulling her closer. "This is... This is perfect", her eyes scanned the table in front of her. "Get everyone to vote for what they like best", you suggest; "Carmy will like this", you point to the third option. The contrasting plate colors and clean-edged dishes were something that no doubt would bring him back to Michelin-class places.

You slipped outside for a quick smoke. Enjoying the little breeze of the evening. Needing a little moment to yourself. You breathed out the smoke carelessly before realizing that you were not alone. "Oh, sorry", you quickly chase the cloud away, adding, "You're okay?". The greenish-pale face was clear evidence of nausea. "Just... It's really warm inside", you only nodded in agreement. And then the silence falls, but the insane kind. The one that you know holds a lot of unsaid feelings. You try to ignore it but fail miserably, "Just say what's on your mind, Natalie".

The woman shakes her head. "I feel guilty", she admits, about the whole Claire situation". That name itself sends a shiver down your back. "Don't waste your breath on it; Richie already told me everything", you take another drag from your cigarette but blow out a smoke away from Nat, not wanting to make her feel any sicker. "I never had a girl friend in the family. Boys had been shit with ladies", she breathed out. "But then you came, and there were so many emotions, and I didn't know you, and maybe I got jealous", you turned to look at her once her words died down. "So... you decided to break me and Carmy apart because you were jealous?", you ask her. "Wow, this family is truly insane", you breathed out, shaking your head.

"I just needed someone familiar; we all needed someone familiar,", Natalie said, but you only shook your head. "That's very hypocritical of you. Carmy already knew me very well, may I add. You could have gotten to know me too". She falls silent for a moment. "Did Richie tell you about the letter?", she asked, not meeting your eyes. "What letter?", you breathed out. Nat nods her head as if reassuring herself before saying, "Michael wrote a letter. It didn't say anything about me and Richie besides the general love you all", she said, "But he mentioned Carmy so many times, and...", her voice died down. She looked like a frozen statue for a moment. "Your name was there too. Mikey felt like an ass that he won't get to meet Carmen's future wife. Won't get to tell you embarrassing stories. Won't hold your kids", those words make your own eyes sting. Breath hitching in your throat. You were not sure of what to say.

"I'm pregnant, you know, and he didn't say anything about my kids", she said through gritted teeth. She moved to wipe her tears away quickly. "Oh, Natalie", you said, dropping the cigarette to the side before stepping closer to her. "It was so fucking petty, and I've been feeling so guilty, but I just wanted something to finally be about me", she crocked out as more tears came rushing down her cheeks. You quickly embraced her, bringing her hiccuping body closer to your chest.

"I've never wanted to...", she cried, but you shook your head. "I was never here to take your space and take your brothers away from you. They both love you a lot, believe me", you reassured her. "You stood up for Carmy at the funeral. No one had been so direct with our mother... I just wanted", she whispered, and all you could do was nod because you knew very well what she wanted. Something that you too had been wanting for so long. Someone who could protect her. To always have her back. To turn into a shield against the harsh world around her. That's what Luca was to you. That's what you were to Carmen. "I'm so sorry", she pulled away slightly, looking into your eyes. "I know, Nat, and I forgive you", you muttered, brushing your sleeve over her damp cheeks, "Now come on, you'll get a cold here, and we need to get you something to drink".

Everyone had eventually gone home. But not before eating the soup that Tina had made while sitting on cardboard boxes together. Only now did you realize how much you had missed this in some way. The little gathering after the day. Something warming to look forward to. Sydney put Marcus on the phone, and to see his beaming face was one of the most rewarding things. You knew you had Luca to thank for that. For bringing back the passion and excitement that used to bubble in Marcus. Richie had pulled into a little side hug before he too stepped out of the place. "I'm glad to see you back", he muttered. You didn't say anything; you just squeezed his hand in return.

"What are you doing here?", Carmy's voice brought you back to the room. You had slipped away to look at the wall facing the entrance. A big white wall that was staring right at you. "Just looking", you muttered. Carmen sat down beside you, following your gaze. He didn't say anything for a while. The silence felt like a warm blanket. "You should paint this wall, or we could hand one of your paintings", Carmy said, and you quickly turned to face him. "That's the main wall", you breathed out. "Exactly why it should be painted by you. If you want to, of course", Carmen stated firmly.

He gazed at you, catching your eyes already on him. "You were thinking about it yourself, weren't you?", Carmen asked, knowing the answer right away when your checks went pink. "I was...but with everything", you breathed out, "It's weird because I love you so much, but I still feel like there are so many things that we need to rebuild".

Carmen reached for your hand, lifting it to his lips before kissing your delicate skin a couple of times. "There's no rush", he breathed out, turning the ring on your finger, "I know where I want to get to. I know what the final destination looks like". You crook your head to the side. Reaching up to brush your fingers through his hair. "Do you want to share?", you ask shyly. Carmy pulls you closer, wrapping his arms around your waist. "It's nothing complicated. You and me. That's all I need", he breathes out, his eyes darting from your eyes to your lips. You reached up, brushing your fingers across Carmy's cheek, and he instantly leaned into your touch. "I think I like that kind of future", you breathed out. His big blue eyes seize you once more. And there's a shy smile on his face. "You do?", he asks, and you nod your head. You run your thumb over his lips a couple of times, and then he's brushing his lips against your own, and it feels like the first time all over again. The same heat rushes to your cheeks. And it's nothing but slow love that you can promise each other now. Patient love that grows alongside you both. One that doesn't put labels. Just promises to keep you both warm. All you need to do is to promise to hold onto one another.

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Taglist: @nishinoyahhh @thewulf @shewasthelimit @chatitajens @azxulaa @hidingfromtex @randomhoex @hopplessdreamer @lostinheavensworld @jackierose902109 @gallaghrh @gabbycoady13 @harrysmatcha @lady-bellyn @lovejoyenjoyer @infinitelycharmed23 @royalestrellas @hanula18 @thoughtfulmoonchild911 @buckys-winter-child @arieltwvdtohamflash @simsiddy @yezzyyae @hidingfromtex @toptierbunny @rooster-bradshaws @simonsaysyasss @hannahmmarie2016 @ladygrey03 @kyushii @smoooore @domaniquessidehoe @eternallyvenus @your-favorite-god @thatonegirlwiththebeanie367 @blueberrystigma

[k-rising]

Pick a card +18: what turns other people on about you?

DISCLAIMER: readings are used as a guide, but the decisions you want to make for yourself are YOUR RESPONSIBILITY. this is for entertainment purposes only.

☞ choose a pile that draws your attention the most.

☞ you can choose more than one option, but I recommend that you stick with the first one you chose.

☞ readings don't have an expiration date.

⁎₊✧˚♡⁎₊✧˚♡⁎₊✧˚♡⁎₊✧˚♡⁎₊✧˚♡⁎₊✧˚♡⁎₊✧˚♡⁎₊✧˚♡⁎₊✧˚

𝓟𝓲𝓵𝓮 𝟏ㅤ ㅤㅤ ㅤ𝓟𝓲𝓵𝓮 𝟐ㅤ ㅤ ㅤㅤ𝓟𝓲𝓵𝓮 𝟑

⁎₊✧˚♡⁎₊✧˚♡⁎₊✧˚♡⁎₊✧˚♡⁎₊✧˚♡⁎₊✧˚♡⁎₊✧˚♡⁎₊✧˚♡⁎₊✧˚

𝓟𝓲𝓵𝓮 𝟏

people like how independent and dedicated you are. they admire the results of what you achieve after your great efforts. I see luxury, comfort and self-control here. people think that you like to do it in secret with the lights off, that you masturbate a lot, although you don't seem like it and others think that you're sexually confused… they may think that you are still a virgin and that you are waiting for the right person to have sex. they think it's key for you to have a romantic connection… but I have a feeling it's not quite like that. I feel that you know how to adapt well sexually speaking and you like to experiment from time to time. I feel that you surprise people a lot both sexually and in everyday life. you're like a pandora's box… in a good way, of course! people admire how smart you are. I feel that you are very good at reading minds or you just have a great degree of intuition. you know how to read people's feelings. some may consider you complex and hard to figure out, as you don't open up easily to others. they consider you as someone either very shy or very reserved… or both lol. you have a reputation for being combative, competitive, and vengeful. you don't let yourself be trampled by anyone and that attracts many people. people admire the fact that you never give up. you are able to achieve everything you want and more. you have great potential! many have the fantasy that you dominate and correct/punish them. "I want you to degradate me." I also feel that you curse a lot. I feel that you are too straightforward and when you get angry, you can say very hurtful things. people see you as a leader, someone who knows how to look to the future and who inspires others. as I said before, they want you to dominate them. "I have disobey you, I need you to teach me a lesson". these people want you to spank and choke them. they want to have oral sex with you, they want to be intoxicated by your smell and taste. some may want to kiss your feet and do it in the car or in the pool. they also want to see you in collars.

channeled song:

⸻

𝓟𝓲𝓵𝓮 𝟐

many people like how enthusiastic you are. you're a very curious person who wants to experience everything in life at least once. people see you as innocent and that turns them on a lot. however, once they have sex with you, many may be surprised at how you are in bed. it's like... you give off innocent vibes, but in private you're not like that at all! it also turns them on how self-sufficient you are. in bed you are dominant and demanding. you may like bdsm, cause i'm visualizing a lot of leather. I also feel that you are not very sentimental, although you seem so at first glance. I just heard "use me" lmaoo. I feel that you like rough, passionate, intense and cold sex. what I mean by cold it that you don't need to have an emotional connection with someone to be able to do the nasty with them. you really like having sex and that empowers you in some way; you don't give a f about what others say about you. going back to the sex part, you're never satisfied and you always want more... you're addicted to sex! I feel that someone hurt you in the past and you didn't have good luck in love, which lead you being like this now. people fantisizes of having threesomes or orgies with you and I also feel that people from all genders are attracted to you. you're something like a tsundere, for those who don't know what that is, basically it's someone who seems cold but is very sweet and affectionate with the ones they trully love. you know what you want, you don't give up easily and you know how to get it... that's what makes you hot af, darlinggg. people also like how straightforward you are. idk if this makes sense, but I feel like you did it or you want to have sex with some of your friends or people fantasize about having sex with you and some of your friends... OR maybe some of your friends find you hot and want to fuck you. people want to corrupt you, but what they don't know is that YOU want to corrupt them as well lol. people want to leave marks on your body so that you remember that you were with them. "you are my muse", "you are a work of art". they would LOVE to see you naked and they want to tease you in public. honey, people be looking at your ass a lot! they would love to spank you, bite it and they fantasize a lot about seeing you ride them in all positions, but specially in reverse. they want to fuck you anywhere, any time. many fantasize about doing it in the pool as well. "you're so tight." a lot of people think you're a virgin and want you to lose your virginity to them. they want to give you oral sex and they would go crazy if you sit on their faces... but honestly? from what i'm sensing, they want you on top of them no matter what. people may also fantasize about filming you having sex with them. they also fantasize about using sex toys on you and choking you. sexting, web cam and phone sex are also other of their fantasies.

channeled song:

⸻

𝓟𝓲𝓵𝓮 𝟑

people want to help you in some way. I feel that you went through very difficult situations where you didn't see any kind of progress and you had to face everything on your own. you may have low self-esteem and others want to help you feel better. they want you to enjoy yourself in bed and not think about anything other than pleasure. they want to dominate you and teach you to make them feel good. people want to share that moment with you and they want you to lose your virginity with them and, if you are not a virgin, they just want you to have a good time with them. they want you to have a good time for once in your life. I feel that your first time was not very pleasant or you simply always felt embarrassed or uncomfortable on talking about sex. you feel confused in some way. with a lot of hard work and time you will be able to enjoy sex. you feel like you have to do too much to satisfy the other person, but sex is about mutual enjoyment! "let's take it easy." it's like a part of you wants to do it, but the other part doesn't because you're embarrassed or you just simply don't know what to do. you need someone to guide you and who has more experience than you. you are afraid of the unknown and of losing your virginity with someone you don't trust. be careful on doing things unconsciously! people want to have a lot of mental stimulation with you. they want to talk dirty to you, go down on you and leave hickeys all over you. they want to have rough sex with you and they also want to try anal penetration and have high sex.

channeled song:

⁎₊✧˚♡⁎₊✧˚♡⁎₊✧˚♡⁎₊✧˚♡⁎₊✧˚♡⁎₊✧˚♡⁎₊✧˚♡⁎₊✧˚♡⁎₊✧˚

‧͙⁺˚*･༓☾　𝑇ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑘 𝑦𝑜𝑢 𝑠𝑜 𝑚𝑢𝑐ℎ 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔! 　☽༓･*˚⁺‧͙

[kelly-bands]

jersey & kisses. ( CHLOE KELLY × READER )

one shot!

summary: where you and kelly argue about manchester city's second uniform design.

" That's weird. " You snapped, while holding your girlfriend's secondary team jersey. Brows furrowed, while you looked at Chloe. You two were at home, the British one was off; choosing the option to be by your side on her rest days. Both sitting on the couch in the living room, where they chose to see all the jerseys Chloe has ever worn.

But you didn't expect one of them to be this weird.

" What…? why?! " A surprised tone, Kelly grabbed the shirt from your hand, then held it out for you to look at properly. " Are you looking right, Y/N? It 's gorgeous. "

The player's expression was a mix of cuteness and displeasure.

Kelly always had that expression on her face when she asked for something or wouldn't agree with something, you commonly see that.

" It is… Something. " You tried to say so that it wouldn't hurt the blonde. It wasn't ugly, but striped jerseys weren't your taste. "There are better ones."

Chloe frowned. Oh no. It was almost as if a storm was about to arrive. Slowly she lowered the shirt to her lap, dissatisfied, tossed it affectionately to you. " Dress up ." Kelly ordered. " Y/N, you just think it's ugly because you've never used it. "

" I've used it, darling. It doesn't match. " Lying for your own good. You grabbed back the shirt, but you wouldn't put it on.

" Stop lying?! I've never seen you use it. " She argued with a stubborn tone. You always took the time to take pictures with Chloe's jerseys, always in her presence, it would have been impossible for her not to have seen it.

" Fuck, Kelly. You know striped shirts are not my thing. " The big problem with this argument is that both parties were stubborn, Chloe is competitive and so are you. You wouldn't let your girlfriend's opinion get the better of you.

" I would even respect your taste. But damn, it's one of my favorites... Just put it on and we'll see if it's everything you say it is." Begging you to wear it, eyebrows shot up in seconds.

Chloe opened a cute and malicious smirk at the same time. And you noticed.

The blonde slowly approached you, enough to bring her mouth close to your ear, even giving you goosebumps. " I'll give you a nice kiss if you wear it. " The player mumbled, knowing what that would do to your nerves.

" …Did this turn into a little game by any chance? " Oh my, how tempting. It was Kelly's first day off after a long month full of practices and matches, so Chloe always arrived tired or just left a peck on your cheek. You needed it, the touch of her lips was more than necessary.

" Almost like that. " The British woman joked with your question, moving away from you and returning to her previous position, Chloe pointed to the jersey in your hands, suggesting to wear it.

" No." A serious tone broke, you were trying not to fall into the devil's temptation. Fighting the negotiation, you stared at the ridiculous jersey some more.

" Alright, if that's your decision… Next!" Despite everything, the player's tone was honestly understandable, she turned her back, reached for the pile of jerseys next to her and looked for the next shirt they were going to discuss.

You wore it.

While Kelly had turned her back, you thought correctly and dressed that jersey. It wasn't like Chloe was going to make fun of the bad shirt match on you. The striped uniform between black and red, in the end, wasn't so bad, you just wanted to play with the blondie.

At the moment when your girlfriend still had her back turned, you ran your hand over the previous number, the beautiful nine, you looked at yourself in the reflection of the television and in a million other possible ways.

" Um! I have this one from— " Chloe caught sight of you after rummaging through the other jerseys. A few seconds of silence stabilized the environment, mouth half open, hands slowly abandoning the jersey she was about to show, you dressed in that shirt and you were the most slender thing in the world.

A feeling of victory rose inside Kelly, the cute and striking smile opened as fast as a child craving a snack.

"Damn, are you kidding? You look so fucking hot in that jersey." The blonde praised with the first words that came to her mind. The black and red clashing with each other made your face more striking, you and the color of the shirt became one; a perfection.

" Oh, please. It's not that much. " You laughed, taking another look at yourself. Maybe deep down, you liked it after your girlfriend's reaction.

You pulled the shirt collar close to your nostrils, the smell was incredible. A mixture of soap and Kelly's perfume, something like vanilla. You continued holding and inhaling the scent, until a hand touched your wrist and pulled you away.

Wet lips touched yours, you still remembered how soft and fluffy they were. Chloe is a fair person, she always keeps her promises. She moved inches away from your face, took the opportunity to push the pile of jerseys with her foot, creating a space for you to lie down on that couch. Kelly took the opportunity to get on top of you, all in a few seconds; she also missed that touch.

"Kelly, wait!" You weren't about to complain about the actions of others, you loved it. But the discomfort was stronger, the gray couch was not so comfortable to lie down in two (especially with someone on top of you).

She listened to you, but wanted to keep her promise. The player was now there, in your lap, and your hands automatically landed on the blonde's waist. " Please be quiet. It's been a while since we've been like this. " Chloe murmured close to your ear, the goofy smile not leaving her face.

Kelly kissed you again, her hands clutching the collar of that ridiculous striped uniform, the british woman's lips were addictive, you missed that. Both thighs fit perfectly around your body, as if they were a toy to fit geometric figures.

" I love you. " Kelly whispered after her lips parted, her breathing so heavy you could feel it. Your eyes landed on the player's lips, almost red as that damn jersey.

" I love you too, Chloe… But damn, I need to get up. " A grunt came out before the murmur, your left leaned on Kelly's thigh, while your right landed on the couch, to sit, without having to lift your girlfriend off him.

" But, anyway. Did you change your mind about the jersey? " The blonde questioned muttering, hoping that you had changed your mind, that a simple kiss could change. close to your face, Chloe brought her fingers to your hair, stroking it as if she were combing a cat's fur.

" Perhaps. But, maybe I should customize one with my name. " You joked, but deep down you would really like it. Matching jerseys was the most fun thing to do with Kelly...

...Especially when it came to a jersey that were, in your own opinion, ridiculous.

[thejakeformerlyknownasprince]

Question: why do people refer to Tobias in Megamorphs 4 as a "quasi-voluntary" controller? I don't have access to my copy right now but I don't recall anything that would imply he had any knowledge of what he was joining/cooperated in any way? Did I miss something?

So I call Tobias quasi-voluntary, because I think — from my read of MM4 — that Tobias is about as voluntary as any "voluntary controller" ever gets. Which is not that voluntary. Tobias goes to a Sharing meeting because Jake's there, but pretty soon he gets sucked into the cycle of love-bombing: "When you attend your second meeting of The Sharing they assign you a guide" (MM4). In Tobias's case it's a guy named Bill, a few years older, who spends every meeting praising Tobias, and talking up how the Sharing cured his depression and being a full member changed his life.

Bill waits for Tobias to say "I want to be a full member." And then he asks if Tobias is sure, and Tobias says "Yes." Bill presses all the way to "You trade a little bit of freedom for a lot of belonging" and gets Tobias to agree a third time. When the time comes for the "ceremony" (infestation), Chapman makes Tobias explain why he's joining, and Tobias does. Three more times Chapman asks, and three more times Tobias says, out loud, that he wants what's going to happen next. Chapman explains why they want Tobias's consent: "We only have problems in twenty-one percent of willing members. And there are... fewer incidents of contested control." Tobias withdraws consent when he realizes they're about to put a slug in his brain, but by then it's too late.

Later Tobias says "Most painful of all was the image of myself swallowing everything the Sharing told me. I had walked, willingly, to my own destruction. At the time I'd seen no alternatives." So is Tobias voluntary? Well, is Chapman voluntary? He agrees not to resist in exchange for Melissa not being recruited, and he keeps his end of the bargain (#2). Not only does he not fight back while there's a yeerk in his brain, but there's every possibility he's one of the people allowing the yeerk to slip out of their brain and then quietly walking to go wait in the break room without supervision.

Okay, but surely the taxxons are voluntary. They chose to ally with the yeerks... Only it turns out their options were ally with the yeerks or starve to death (#53), and just because their leaders chose the yeerks doesn't mean individual taxxons were okay with it (Andalite Chronicles).

But then, we all know Taylor is voluntary. Because she gave up her freedom for little old things like... relief from pain. And escape from discrimination. And basic health care that didn't cost her family their life savings (#33). And she could never change her mind, because she got punished by Sub-Visser Fifty-One for misbehaving (#43).

But Mr. Tidwell's definitely voluntary. He chooses to have a yeerk in his brain even after joining the YPM. Only he was so depressed he couldn't take care of himself when he joined (#29), and probably would have literally died without the yeerks.

Hang on, is Tom voluntary? He spontaneously offers to "be quiet" and "never trouble you again" when Temrash 114 starts trying to recruit Jake (#6). We don't know for sure that Tom isn't hanging out in that same break room after the events of #1, in exchange for Jake not being recruited.

So on. We know the Sharing targets people who are unhoused and/or mentally ill, and that the ones with happy, stable home lives (Tom, later Jake) tend to go unconvinced. You have to be vulnerable to end up voluntary, the series shows, so vulnerable that your whole ability to consent is seriously called into question.

[darknight3904]

The Stars

Masterlist / Main Masterlist

Asgard 2013

Warnings: Loki's dirty thoughts about  Astri, Loki talking about his life with Thanos.

For someone who had been locked up for weeks, Loki looked a little too desirable. His deep voice was soothing as he read the book he had chosen for tonight. Astri had long ago stopped focusing on the words and was admiring him through the yellow barrier that separated them. His hair was a bit curlier today than it had been yesterday, Astri wondered if he had done it like that on purpose. The green leather and golden armor he normally donned was gone and in its place was a softer more comfortable-looking outfit, perfect for the lounging that took up his days.

   "You aren't listening," Loki said suddenly

   "Sure I am." She lied

   "I chose a romance book because I thought you'd enjoy it." Loki sighed

   "And why would I enjoy a romance book?" Astri asked

   "I thought most females enjoyed romance books." He reasoned

   "How stereotypical of you, Loki." Astri smiled

   "Well if you don't want to read what do you want to do? Our options are limited given I'm stuck in here." He said, snapping the book shut

Astri thought about what they could do with Loki stuck in a cell. The idea of trying to push her way through the golden barrier crossed her mind, sure her magic might be strong enough but was Odin's rath worth it? Astri wasn't quite sure. 

   "How about we just sit and talk?" Astri suggested 

She took Loki's silence as agreement and began the conversation. 

   "What do miss now that you're stuck here?" 

   "Everything," Loki admitted 

   "If you had to pick one thing," Astri said

   "I guess I'd choose...the stars. It was always peaceful looking out my balcony at night when the stars shone. I wish I could experience it again." He chose 

   "Interesting choice." Astri complimented, standing up

   "Where are you going?" Loki asked 

   "To my chambers. I'll see you another time." She explained as she walked away 

She could hear Loki scampering to find a reason for her to stay longer, even offering to never choose a romance book again for them to read together. Astri was glad that he had chosen something simple for her to bring to him, had he chosen something like conquering Midgard that would have made her idea much harder. Now, all she had to do was figure out how to get through that damn gold barrier.

Loki didn't see Astri for the rest of the week, the only signal that she wasn't angry with him was the romance book she had sent to him via a guard who had handed him a note to go with it. 

Thor's lady, Jane, says men who read romance books are hopeless romantics themselves. 

Was he a hopeless romantic? Surely not. They were just means of entertainment for him after all he had a higher purpose that he'd someday fulfill. Astri's analysis was wrong. Speaking of Astri, where the hell was she? She had said she'd see him again but didn't give a date or a time and it was driving him mad. The only other real interaction he'd had since she left earlier this week was with Frigga who projected herself to his cell. Sure, it felt like she was close to him but it hurt when he'd try to reach for her only for his hands to slip right through. Loki loved Frigga deeply but he yearned for Astri's sharp remarks and how she'd immediately call him on his lies. 

He wondered what she'd be wearing the next time she entered the dungeons. Perhaps a lilac dress? She had been in a pale pink the last time they spoke. Of course, he'd love if she wore the blue one she had that had white lace embroidered on it, that one was his favorite. The way it accentuated what she thought was hidden so well under the fabric was perfectly sinful. Astri's figure had been on Loki's mind a lot recently. Initially, he thought it was because of being stuck here and the fact that she was going through his mind at night. But it had continued the entire week and he hadn't seen her at all. Sure, it could have been her going through his mind but that didn't explain why he thought of her even during the day. He'd spend time reading or drawing and find his mind wandering to her what her lips would taste like. He had smelled the stuff she put on them once, it smelled like fruits, would she taste like it too? Loki's mind spiraled more as he wondered what she'd look like if he slipped his hand up her skirt and into the apex between her thighs. He'd love to pin her down on the bed he was sitting on now and press his face between those same thighs until she screamed from overstimulation. He wondered about what she'd look like above him, gasping in pleasure as she took what had always been hers.  Loki wanted to be able to press a kiss to every inch of Astri's body and yet here he sat, imprisoned while she flitted about in the castle about him.

   "Good, you're still awake." 

Astri. Finally, she showed. Loki's hands fumbled with the pillow beside him as he placed it quickly over his lap. It was so late what was she doing down here now? 

   "Well don't be shy, get up and greet me properly." She commanded 

Loki eyed her arms which were overflowing with a bundled-up blanket and a big wicker basket. Ordinarily, he would've risen to greet her but his half-hard cock wasn't something she'd want greeting her so he stayed put. 

   "Fine, be rude." Astri huffed, pushing the blanket and basket through the small weakness in the yellow shield that was meant for delivering his meals. "You'll be thanking be after this." 

Loki's eyes widened as Astri's closed. A soft blue hue covered her body as she took a step towards the shield. 

   "What are you doing? The guards will-" Loki stopped his words as Astri phased right through what was penning him in. "When did you learn to do that?" 

   "What do you think I've been spending my week doing?" She smiled crossing the cell to get to him 

Loki wasn't expecting a warm hug but he welcomed it anyway. 

   "I can't believe you tried conquering Midgard," Astri said pulling away and giving him a hard shove 

No sooner had he opened his mouth to explain his glorious purpose than Astri had slapped her hand over it, shutting him up entirely. 

   "You can talk about glorious purpose later. I have a surprise." She smiled, turning around and laying the blanket on the ground. 

   "What are you doing? You do realize this is a dungeon...how did you get past the guards?" He asked suddenly curious 

   "A cloaking spell." She smiled and began unpacking her basket which as it turned out was full of food. 

   "So you're here to have a midnight picnic with me?" Loki asked finally standing up 

   "No, silly. You said you missed the stars, so I brought them here." Astri smiled pulling him down on the blanket with her. 

Loki decided to indulge her desires and got comfortable beside her. His hand reached for a grape as Astri snapped her fingers beside him. The area around them dimmed and the ceiling of the once bleak cell was transformed into a brilliant light show. The other cells disappeared as Astri's magic took over and seemingly wrapped them in their own little bubble. The stars twinkled and danced in front of Loki's eyes as he observed what she had done for him.

   "Do you like it? I know it's not the stars from your balcony but it's the best I can do right now." She said

   "I love it." He smiled, looking at her 

   "Good...I also brought some food." Astri awkwardly pointed out

   "Yes, I see, thank you. " He said genuinely 

They sat in awkward silence as Loki tried to think of something to say to the girl next to him. This was the first time they had been physically in front of each other in weeks. His hands itched to take hers in them, they looked impossibly small as she picked at the skin beside her nails. 

   "What the hell were you thinking?" Astri asked suddenly 

   "I bed your pardon?" Loki asked, confused. 

   "You knocked me out, destroyed Joutunheim, then let go and fell who knows where after Odin woke up and tried to help you and Thor." She explained 

   "Is that what they told you happened?" He laughed 

   "Yes. I want an explanation, now." She demanded, reaching to poke at his ribs, an oddly ticklish spot for him 

   "There was no point in staying behind. There still isn't anything for me here on Asgard, my rotting in this dungeon proves it. I have never and will never be essential to the house of Odin." He said 

   "Nothing here for him he says." Astri sighed "What about me? Or Frigga? During the year you were off gathering an army did you ever think about what we were feeling?" 

Loki felt his anger boiling in his stomach. Did Astri think he was off galavanting across the galaxy, feasting war generals so he could use their troops to win Midgard? 

   "Do you honestly think I was living my best possible life after I left here? What do you think I was doing all that time?" He snarled, upset that Astri was only talking about her and his 'mother'. 

   "I've wondered every night what you were doing where you were but you never speak of it." Astri said 

She had him there. 

   "Have you ever heard the name Thanos?" Loki asked, he felt his hands shaking. Why is he telling her this? Stop it. Send her away, yell at her to go back to her room, and push her away. 

   "I've heard it, in whispers from travelers and reports from across the galaxy, Odin has mentioned him." She said, Loki could feel her eyes on him, his gaze cast at his lap. 

   "After I let go I ended up in a place called the Sanctuary. I met Thanos there. He offered me control of Midgard in return for the Tesseract." He said shakily. 

   "What more? Months after you went missing, I kept trying to find you, and one night I did, or I think I did. You were suffering heat or something was being used." Astri said gently brushing her hand along his shoulder. 

   "He uh...He, Thanos used a tremendous amount of heat to buy my submission." Loki said, shutting his eyes. "Frost Giants can burn as it turns out." 

Loki felt Astri's hand rubbing at his back and her chin resting on his shoulder. 

   "After I had submitted to his whims, he used the Mind Stone, one of the Infinity Stones to do his bidding. After that, he sent me to Midgard, Infinity stone in hand." He said, "It remains there, those Avengers have it." 

Loki heard Astri let out a soft hum of confirmation next to him. Minutes passed and Loki dared open his eyes when he felt Astri shift beside him. 

   "I want you to know something, Loki." Astri said hooking a finger under his chin so he'd look at her "You are good. You always have been even if can't see it. 

Their noses brushed as Loki's eyes fluttered shut again. He felt hot tears run down his face at Astri's words. Damn it why did he always cry when he wanted to express emotion? 

   "Thank you, Astri. I don't feel that way, though." Loki said his eyes opening to meet Astri's whose face was close to his. 

   "You will. One day." She reassured 

Astri was indescribably warm as she pressed her forehead to his. Their breaths mingled as Loki took her hands in his. 

   "I missed you. There wasn't anyone to read with or joke with." She admitted 

   "You could have with Fandral." Loki smiled 

   "Oh please, Fandral reading?" Astri scoffed 

   "True, I think he'd rather chop off his right arm than pick up a book," Loki said, sitting up and pulling away from her slightly. 

Astri's hands broke from his, and she grabbed at his shirt, pulling back towards her. 

   "Wait." She murmured 

   "What is it?" Loki asked 

Astri's face grew redder the more Loki looked at her. 

   "Don't you have something to say? You told me to wait." He teased 

   "I just..." 

Come on, say what's going through that pretty head. 

   "I like it when you're close to me." She whispered as if it were a secret.

   "I it like when you're close too," Loki admitted, reaching out and twirling a strand of  her hair around his finger 

Astri let out an amused giggle and leaned closer. 

   "Guess I should stay nearby then." 

Loki had no complaints about that statement and nodded in agreement. Astri's scent invaded his nose, it was exactly as he remembered. Fruity yet flowery at the same time, and yet it wasn't too overpowering. He watched as her tongue appeared, slightly wetting her lips, it was like she was trying to tempt him into touching her. 

   "What're you thinking about?" Astri asked 

   "You," Loki said 

Astri barely had enough time to crack a smile at his admission. Loki knew what was next, a smart comment about how she was always dancing around in his mind. So, he stopped it in what he thought was the cleverest way possible and brushed his lips on hers. They tasted of fruit just like he had imagined for so many years. Astri had let out a small squeak of surprise when Loki had leaned in but now, he felt her smiling into their kiss. Smaller arms wrapped around his shoulders as she let out a laugh, breaking away for air. 

   "What was that?" She breathlessly asked 

   "You said you liked it when I was close." He said a wide smile on his face. 

Astri tossed her head back with a laugh and Loki felt his own laugh bubbling up through his stomach and out his mouth. He felt Astri's hands playing with the hairs at the nape of his neck, her nimble fingers pushed through his dark strands and a shudder ran down his spine. Their lips met again, this time with Astri initiating. Loki gently cupped her face as he felt her invade all of his senses, her presence was casting an unbreakable spell on him and he gladly welcomed it with open arms, after all, it was all he could ever dream of. 

Hehe first kiss for Loki and Astri. 

I am having Coriolanus Snow brain rot. Tom Blythe is one sexy mf. 

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[winktalks-com]

NO because that tiny tiny shot of gojo's 6? year old self and the way he looked and the way he spoke means so much. "stop looking at me you weakling" was so serious. this kid is obviously not the 17 year old Satoru we know from hidden inventory. and the fact that there's nothing else (that we know of) that changed from this particular flashback to the time hidden inventory takes place in (EXCEPT him meeting Suguru) just serves to drive the point further that he only really acts like that because of Geto.

Children don't act so mature and if they do they don't magically evolve into carefree childish teens.

Cause we know for a fact from the day he was born gojo was just adored by his family. Like "On the day Gojo Satoru was born the balance of the world was altered" type stuff which I am sure they didn't shy away from saying to his face. And children don't have that concept of power. He likely didn't even understand what he was compared to in terms of strength. I mean i doubt those adults would want to talk about the details of cursed spirits with a kid.

And being told you're supposed to be the strongest can be so scary. I mean sure he already had it in him but did he feel it? I doubt it. People born a certain way can't comprehend life beyond their perception.

And then he joined jujutsu high which- we aren't even told why? Cause clans have the option to train their kids themselves homeschooling style. I'd think they'd wanna keep him as close as possible)

But anyway he joins and here comes this other guy who is just as strong as him who has a very very different outlook on life and who speaks about it so confidently and convincingly that gojo starts trusting him with his whole being.

Like "oh Suguru thinks this so it must be the answer" "Suguru thinks I'm right so that's all that matters" "Suguru thinks I'm wrong so I MUST prove to him that I'm right"

And even if they fought a lot Geto remained his moral compass and all of his opinions stood on the pillars of getos belief system even while directly opposing it.

In hidden inventory after Riko's death Satoru asks Geto if he should kill all of those people. And when the other disagrees he doesn't argue. Because Suguru is always right.

And when Geto defects and kills a bunch of non sorcerers his whole world crumbles because His firend has never been inconsistent or hypocritical before. Cause Geto is suPOSED to always be right. Like fuck you mean you talk about how sorcerers are born to protect regular people and then you go kill a bunch of those people you're supposedly meant to protect?

And sure he's angry. But his whole personality and morality is built around Geto. And he still thinks its the right way to think. So he keeps acting like that because in those 4 years they spent together he forgot how to care about his family's opinion. Because the only opinion that mattered was Geto's.

And if I was Gojo I'd be pretty fucking upset. Because sure its "do as I say not as I do" but Geto didn't make that choice only for himself. And how dare he even think he's wise enough to make that type of decision at 17? At any age. He didn't just choose to kill that whole village he chose every consequence of that action too. He chose to have an execution order placed on his head and he chose to kill his parents after that and he cHOSE to leave Gojo behind.

And that's fucked up like ok you made a mistake?? But don't keep making mistakes just so you don't have to admit it.

I hate them

[shatcey]

1st anniversary (Victor)

William Victor Victor epilogue Liam Liam epilogue

In this part of the event, you could choose between William, Victor, Elbert, Alfons and Roger. I didn't even consider the latter (sorry… I just don't like big guys, not my type, as I recently realized. I'm very slow). But everyone else… It's very tempting. And the idea of saving the story was also extremely tempting. And the fact that I'll probably never read it again won't stop me. It is saved, and I can re-read it at any time… That's all that matters.

So, I chose William with both endings because… why not. And I couldn't choose another one. I didn't want to waste resources on this part of the event, because on the second one will be Ellis AND Jude and I want them both. I really did said that.

After William's story, I got a little worried. I don't wanna think about depressing and upsetting things on the anniversary. So… Elbert somehow disappeared. And Alfie… I can't even find the strength to start his route, how can I choose his event?.. So, the logical conclusion led me to Victor.

It was an absolutely logical decision. Not the birdcage you get for completing the premium ending… And, of course, not the opportunity to buy his epilogue. I'm still considering this option…

So...

If in Will's story was many reminiscences from the prologue, then Victor's story goes even further… There are a lot of reminiscences not only from the prologue, but also from previous events.

Victor once again asks William to decide whether Kate is suitable for this job or not, because… he cannot decide for himself. But William, smiling slyly, turned him down.

Right... he already did it ones. Your turn!

Victor goes to his room, remembering why he hired Kate in the first place.

At that moment, Kate noticed Victor and approached him. She was looking for him to gave her report. And suddenly…

Kate was surprised at first, and he really thought he had been rejected. But she explained that he had never asked her out before… This is the first time. When she gladly agreed and offered to visit some other place. They went to the train.

Victor continues to think that to choose and silence are becoming quite unsettling. Kate starts talking about boys, just to break the ice. Vic thinks they don't know much about each other outside of work.

At the next station, Vic open the window and explain to Kate that if you do so, a flower seller will approach them. So he did. Vic asks what her favorite flower is.

I'm really curious what happened to these flowers? Because… they run around all day, and no one mentioned flowers after that. And yes, it was very sweet of him. But I remember how annoying it is to carry flowers while you on the date… (exhales) Ok…

So they went to another city, and Kate really enjoyed it so very much.

Vic remembers their interaction at different events

"Erase love"? Now I'm scared...

This is from Luxury Liner event

I think it's from the Black wedding event

And he thinks Kate always wanted to stay by his side. It's clear that the Crown benefits from her presence, but what about Kate? Vic noticed that Kate was having fun and decided to follow suit.

They went down to the city and there was a competition. They are, of course, desided participate. And Vic found something in common with her

They win, probably because they look so dashing, and everyone else is too distracted. He, as usual, shows his trick with a pigeon. I can't separate one from the other anymore.

And after that, they return by train. Kate thanks him for a wonderful day and says she will never forget it. And suddenly she mentioned that Vic doesn't do anything without a reason. He agrees and tells her that he decides to let her stay or release her from work. She suddenly felt very sad when she remembered her life before the crown

She asks to be allowed to stay. She likes this job, she thinks she has a lot to learn from Victor, and then she turns around to leave… The next stop is theirs…

Victor, looking at her back, realised…

I'm getting goosebumps from that line… It's so cute))) And look at his face... he's so pretty here...

He hugs her from behind and tells her that he thinks

Awwww… But no, he ended up saying, "Would you continue to be a fairy teller?". It's a pity. What a wonderful declaration of love it could be.

She happily agrees, and after that they go to the park. She asks him to go on a date without reason next time. He thinks she probably likes him, but he can't afford to get too attached to her.

And I'm not sure about this translation, so I'll show you the original

So… He doesn't want her to become one of the victims of his curse, but he cannot figure out the nature of his feelings for her. Something like that. Correct me if I'm wrong.

I bought his epilogue. But too many story events going at the same time have burned out my brain, and I need time to recover. But I will definitely read it later. It must be very interesting.

About this story. I didn't expect Victor to think so much, considering how easy-going and light headed he seems to be. And at first I was a little worried that this story would turn out to be as dark as Williams'. But Victor is as predictable as the weather, so it's always fun to be around.

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🔝 Start page 🔝

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[legendofmorons]

Lost at sea (Colors)

This is 2nd place in my 100 follower event for @twistedfairytalefantasy

Pairing: Colors x reader (background Four x reader)

Rating: T

Summary: When you discover that your boyfriend is able to split into four people, it's stressful for all five of you. But it's okay, you're sticking together.

Warnings: Overprotective brother,

Other: I'll come in and fix the formatting in a week or so. If I missed anything, please let me know.

-------

Today has not gone at all how anyone planned. From your brother coming in and being rude towards Four to you getting dragged into one of Wind's best to date shenanigans.

The words your brother said still circle the colors' head.

'Worthless.'

'Not even close to goof enough.'

'A two bit shill who will leave you.'

Obviously these words aren't true but they hurt. And even if they aren't true they feel true.

With Red and Green are fully convinced your brother is right, the only real option is to get to somewhere private and to split.

Blue and Vio argue vehemently the entire way back to the room that your brother is wrong. That his opinion doesn't matter as much as yours does.

That you chose them which makes them worthy of you. After all who's a better judge of what you need and want than you yourself?

The colors really weren't expecting anyone to come into the room until much later. Which is why they're in this predicament. You had found them- and understandably had a little freak out because realistically this is strange and unusual.

Hylia could only save this.

Or maybe it's not gonna be so bad?

You've always been accepting of them before.

…….

The colors had split, each of them having an issue which of course gave them a splitting headache.

The entirety of the argument they'd had with your overprotective brother spinning in their heads.

Your brother is right though, they're not good enough for you. They keep hiding the main secret they have from you.

And it's not like you could just accept this. That would be too much to ask, even from you.

You- who have always accepted them wholeheartedly… even if you don't know about the colors.

You've never hurt them on purpose. And you've always defended them- even if they didn't believe it.

Just the thought of you finding out and hating them is enough to send them spiraling.

Red and Green both sit down on the bed they had taken for themselves.

Blue and Vio sit on your bed.

All four seem displeased and the conversation has only just started.

"We have to just ignore him." Blue says, arms crossing. "(Y/n) chose us. That's more important than anything their brother said."

Green is still frowning, "But family opinions can matter a lot to people!"

"Besides… It's not like (Y/n) knows about us. They didn't actually choose us. They chose Four."

"We are Four." Blue counters evenly, "They absolutely chose us. They just don't know everything yet."

"And what about when they find out?" Vio asks, gaze narrowing, "We're not exactly normal."

"So? No one we're traveling with is."

"So you want us to just be optimistic?" Green asks, "I know (Y/n) wouldn't let our secret slip…. But it seems like a tall order to expect them to still want anything to do with us after they learn about us."

"But I think-" Red starts, only to be cut off by the door opening with the loudest creak.

Uh oh. They'd been so preoccupied they hadn't heard anyone approach. Of all the possibilities they hope it's Time or Twilight- those two are the least reactive.

Your face is the first thing they see.

Uh oh.

You slam the door shut, eyes narrowing as tears still gather in them from the previous experience.

Your brother's words about your boyfriend running your mind. You know he thinks he's helping but you wish he hadn't.

Hearing him tear into Four when the man wasn't around to defend himself upset you. And while normally you'd tell anyone who pulled that to shut up- you have a harder time with family.

You do know your brother was looking out for you in your own way. But the argument that ensued was exhausting.

You don't feel guilty though. You feel justified in setting your brother straight. He'd obviously lost his whole rocker.

You wipe your eyes quickly, setting yourself right.

Blue and Green both share a look, dreadful and resigned.

Vio watches, knowing it's too late to re-form into their original form. He chooses to have faith in you the way you deserve.

Red just sighs, shoulders slumping with the action.

You haven't seen them yet, the shared looks of panic between the colors stay unnoticed.

You finally look around, eyes blowing wide as quarters when you see four men in different colored tunics.

At first glance you thought one was Four- but these men are near identical.

"Who are you?!" You demand, hand reaching for the sword on your back.

That action alone is enough to upset them.

But then they process your words. And they're softening as they try to figure out what to do to help.

Your voice is entirely too accusing for the colors- they've never heard you so untrusting of them… But you've never seen them either have you?

"Wait!" Red calls quickly in an effort to keep you from attacking them. "It us- we're uh- Four!"

"Uh, no you aren't." Your voice is confused- but you hesitate a little.

Your hand hovers as if frozen beside the grip of your sword.

That’s reassuring at least. The colors share a look. They can work with this- at least to talk you out of fight mode.

Their voices- it still sounds like Four. And they all look impossibly like your boyfriend.

This is so weird.

Could they be telling the truth?

"(Y/n)." Green says, "This isn't how we are. wanted you to-"

"Shut up and let them think." Blue says with a glare.

Red looks thoroughly offended but when he opens his mouth to respond Green sets one hand on his shoulder. Effectively silencing him.

Vio just watches you, taking in everything you do and say. Trying to make a game plan. (Not that he knows what game you're all even playing.)

You take in the scene before you, confused and considering yelling for one of the boys. Because what in the name of Hylia and her sisters is this?

You narrow your eyes, but you can't find anything to disprove their claim…

They look remarkably like Four- the same features and hair. The same expressions you're famous with paint their faces- each of them having a separate look on their face.

Wait…

Four's sword…

The four sword-

Oh.

Nothing named like that is ever just named that.

That can't mean that-

The sword probably multiplies a person?

Maybe it splits them?

Who knows? Not you.

This is already giving you a headache.

You let out a slow sigh, trying to wrap your brain around the new ideas and information presented to you. The scene before you doing nothing to ease your brain.

"Uhm- not to be overbearing- but are you okay?" Green asks, tilting his head.

You let out a sigh, relaxing a little as you drop your hand back down.

Obviously they aren't going to attack you right now. And if they're being honest they're Four- or well versions of him.

You can't imagine Four ever hurting you on purpose.

Huh.

Well then. You're probably safe aren't you?

You can relax then.

"I'm fine. This is- a lot." You say, trying not to let your own confused panic flood your voice.

"We're sure." Vio says, his own gaze stuck to you. He can tell you aren't handling this as well as you want them to think.

"So… You're all Four?"

"Parts of him." Red explains with a shrug, "We're all one of his major parts."

You nod along, trying not to let your expression give away your unsure panic.

"Oh… well it's nice to meet you?"

"We already know you." Blue says sharply something almighty about it. Well- maybe not almighty- more cocky. Yeah, that's the word.

It's endearing almost- Four always seems so calm and gentle. It's nice to see a version of him proud.

It's well deserved after all. Being a Chosen Hero, a blacksmith, this latest adventure? More than deserved.

"Well I haven't met you. Have I?"

"No. You haven't." Vio says, his tone anything but revealing.

"I'm Green! The Cranky one is blue!"

"Oh- that makes sense."

"I'm Red!"

"Hi. Does that make you Purple?" You ask, eyes falling to Vio.

"No. I'm Vio."

"Oh- that's short for Violet then? Pretty."

"Violence." Blue pipes up helpfully.

"Oh. Huh. That's- something else." You say, unsure what you're expected to say or do in response to any of this.

Like seriously. What in the name of the stars are you supposed to do?

One good outcome is this gives you a whole new thing to focus on than anything your brother said.

And this- well you're invested in where this goes.

"If it would help we can re-fuse?" Green suggests.

"No. It's fine- I just really wasn't expecting this today."

"Or probably ever." Vio says with little more than a glance your way.

"I can't say I did."

"Who would? Freaked us pretty good too." Green smiles, "Are you sure you don't want us to-"

"No. It's fine. I promise. I'd really love to get to know each of you."

"Ooooh come sit with me!" Red grins as he seems to bounce in place on the bed.

You look at Red, and feel guilty even as you hesitate.

Is it rude to sit with one of them over the other?

That's something to figure out later.

"He doesn't bite." Vio says with a tilt of his head.

"I do." Blue says with crossed arms.

"Please don't bite me?" You say the phrase more of a question than a statement.

"I won't bite you. You're ours." Blue says, sounding as if this should be totally obvious.

"Okay. Thanks… I think."

You walk from where you've been standing just inside the room to sit between Green and Red.

Red sets his head against your arm happily, smiling up at you.

"You're so pretty, (Y/n)." Red says with a giddy look.

Green just laughs.

"You're reacting better than we expected." Vio says from the opposite bed.

"Thanks. What did you think I was going to do?"

"Scream and run?" Green suggests.

"Hate us." Blue says with a straight face.

"Why would I ever hate you? You're all parts of Four, aren't you?"

"We are." Vio says with a sigh. "But this isn't exactly something people support."

"Then they're just dumb." You say with your arms crossed, "Though I would have hoped you knew me better than thinking I could hate you."

The look you toss around at your boys is chiding enough without anything else.

Your boys?

Makes sense.

"(Y/n)," Green says, "Look around you. You're dating four people."

"So? If I understand right I've been dating you for this whole time."

"Well-" Blue starts, only to fall short.

What does he even say in response?

"Exactly."

"I told you they would be supportive." Vio says as he gives the other three a knowing smirk.

"We were just worried." Green says, "What else would we expect?"

"I don't know." You say, eyes looking around your boys again.

You take to the new information better than anyone else could have ever expected.

You decide within an hour that you should take the colors on solo dates when possible too.

After all, you're dating all four of them.

You want to act like it!

"I still don't think we can all sleep in one bed." Vio says firmly.

"We can if you let us try!" Red insists, borderline jumping.

"Or we could sleep on the floor." You offer from beside Blue.

All four men's heads turn to you, any arguments forgotten as they once again are reminded how wonderful you are.

"You're so smart." Red says as he looks absolutely smitten. He might as well have actual heart eyes.

"Of course they are." Blue shakes his head.

You can feel your face flushing a little, worries and issues of earlier already gone for now. "Thank you."

"Let's get the floor set up then. I still have bruises from yesterday's fiasco." Green adds as he starts clearing the middle of the floor.

"Don't remind me." Vio groans, moving to help Green.

You just wince in sympathy, trying not to remember the mess that was yesterday's ambush.

You and the colors disassemble the bedding and use extra blankets to build a sleep area that you should all actually fit into.

It's after you get everything set up that you feel at peace fully. The moonlight streaming in from the window the wall boasts.

Laying in the middle with two of your boys on either side.

Red and Blue both fall asleep quickly, their faces endearingly peaceful.

"I tried telling them you'd accept us." Vio says from his spot at your left.

"Why wouldn't I?"

"Because having four people that make up your boyfriend is weird." Green says from behind Vio.

"It's not what I expected. But I'm not going to just ditch you guys over something I didn't expect."

"Thank you. That means- a lot." Green says softer, sounding soft and fragile.

"Of course. Besides, if I was gonna ditch you guys for anything it would be for being out of my league."

"You, my dear, are a sap." Vio says as he sets one hand on your shoulder.

"Thank you for noticing."

"Hard not to notice. " Green smiles soft as you've ever seen.

"That's what I'm usually going for. I can't have you thinking I care less about you than I do."

Green looks like he's falling in love with you all over again. His smile is all too smitten and you swear to Hylia that his pupils are turning into actual hearts.

Vio just squeezes your shoulder fondly. His own face betrays his love for you.

You drift to sleep, all five of you assured that you're safe and happy together. That everyone in the room trusts each other.

Each of the colors knows in their heart that you- (Y/n) (L/n) choose to stay with them even after finding out everything.

…….

You wake up the following morning to all four of your boyfriends in a dog pile of sorts atop you.

Vio is clinging to you on one side while Green is sideways across your legs.

Blue has set his head on your chest.

And to top it all of Red has his arms wrapped around your stomach, his head resting atop it.

Well, as cold as last night was, you didn't feel it.

You smile softly, reaching up to stretch your arms as you admire the way they all look in their sleep.

You'll do your best to make sure they all know individually and together how much you love them.

And you can't wait to get to know them better.

Especially not when you find yourself playing twenty questions with them as the day goes on outside without any of you. The laughter and smiles you get are all worth their weight in golf and then some.

[jackoshadows]

@blankwhiteshield I thought I would respond in a separate post since I don't want to derail from @fromtheseventhhell's OG post about something else. You responded to my comment here by saying that I was 'entirely wrong' and linking to an essay on Jaime Lannister and I did try to read through all that to get a gist of your explanation.

First I want to mention that Rhaegar being a pre-asoiaf/background/tertiary character means we don't know a lot about him. I can only speculate as to his thoughts and motives and why he did what he did.

I wrote that comment because the absolute hypocrisy of Jaime Lannister apologists/Braime shippers critiquing Rhaegar grinds my gears something fierce. And I am not even a Rhaegar fan - he's a character that there's to set other characters on their journey and to set the story.

The consequences of Jaime's incestual adultery was the spark that lead to the WOT5K that two years on is still ongoing with no stability in war torn Westeros. Jaime Lannister attempts to murder a little child because he can't keep it in his pants for the short duration they are visiting the Starks. Jaime was hunting down a 9 year old to cut off her hand. That poll about Rhaegar being a bad father when Jaime refers to Joffrey as semen in Cersei's cunt is a farce.

Hence my comment.

Now, let's start with Jaime being Aerys' hostage. Yes, Aerys used Jaime against Tywin. However, why was Jaime in the Kingsguard (KG) in the first place? He was Tywin's golden child and heir to Casterly Rock, unlike Cersei and Tyrion having no value for Tywin because she is a girl and he is disabled.

Aerys had no power over Jaime until he chose to join the KG to serve the Mad King. Jaime had more choice than the 14 year old bastard Jon Snow who had to leave Winterfell and the NW is pretty much the only option available to him. He had more choice than his sister Cersei. He had more choice than disabled Tyrion getting physically/sexually abused by his own family.

So why did Jaime decide to join the KG? So that he could be close to Cersei and sleep with her. Jaime joins the KG knowing that he was going to break the KG oaths of celibacy. He didn't care about oaths when joining the KG , right?

This is why Jaime's entire spiel about oaths never had any emotional weight for me, coming from a character who had no value for oaths in the first place and who had no intention of upholding his sworn oaths when he joined the KG.

I can understand a character like Jon Snow's angst and conflict when he is forced to sleep with Ygritte or when he has to choose between the NW and saving his sister, because oaths are important to Jon Snow. Oaths and honor is important to someone like Ned Stark. Jaime? Considering his total disrespect for the KG oaths when he joins them to simply be close to Cersei, I don't get it.

Next, Rhaegar's conversation with Jaime.

Why do you assume here that Jaime was scared of Aerys and asking Rhaegar to save/rescue him from Aerys? I mean, Jaime was KG. At 13 he won his first melee. At 15 he was defeating other skilled swordsmen.

It could just as well be Jaime eager to fight with Rhaegar in battle and asking that Rhaegar leave behind the older KG like Darry to instead guard the king because the battle is where the fight is. Jaime thinks that guarding someone is not as exciting as fighting in battle. It's even right there in the next sentence when Jaime gets angry about being referred to as a crutch and he's like ' I AM A KINGSGUARD'.

We see something similar when Jon begs his uncle to take him for ranging.

Three days after their arrival, Jon had heard that Benjen Stark was to lead a half-dozen men on a ranging into the haunted forest. That night he sought out his uncle in the great timbered common hall and pleaded to go with him. Benjen refused him curtly. - Jon, AGoT

There's also not much Rhaegar can probably do at that point (speculating here) - facing war/battle - about his volatile, angry father, the King. There are all these essays about the effect that Tywin had on Jaime... imagine the burden of being the Mad King's son. What power does Rhaegar have to take away the King's choice of KG? Rhaegar didn't even have the power to send his own wife and children elsewhere. Him actively interfering was only going to further anger a king who was already paranoid about the crown prince. Hence the 'I dare not take away that crutch from him at such a hour'.

I think you also mention that Jaime was terrified of being executed as an hostage - is this mentioned anywhere in the books or are you just assuming/speculating on his thought process here?

Jon Snow is elected Lord Commander of the Night's Watch at 16. In Westeros 16 is considered a man grown and Jaime is an adult by Westerosi standards and Rhaegar certainly didn't see him as some kind of child hostage like that post deliberately twisted it into.

A boy in Westeros is considered to be a "man grown" at sixteen years. The same is true for girls. Sixteen is the age of legal majority, as twenty-one is for us.

At any rate, Rhaegar and Jaime's fellow KG expected the KG left behind in KL - Jaime Lannister - to do his job and protect the crown prince's wife and babies as per sworn oaths.

In which Jaime fails because while his father's men, including the Mountain, were scaling the walls to rape and murder Elia and her babies, Jaime was lounging on the throne waiting for one of the rebels to get there. And hence his guilt when confronted by ghosts of his past in his weirwood dreams.

You have written a lot on how Jaime could not have known about what Tywin's men would do. I mean, why is he waiting around to find out what they would do?! Sorry, these are piss poor excuses and even Jaime Lannister himself doesn't really believe this because he knows that he should have immediately gone to their side after the King was dead as his ghosts tell him.

Jaime knows his father. He knows what Tywin is capable of. He was there for what Tywin did to Tysha. KL was even then being raped and pillaged. And he thought nothing would happen to the Targaryen princess and her children?

The Mad King was dead - literally backstabbed by the hostage. What should this skilled Kingsguard do next? Immediately go to Elia and the babies to protect Rhaegar's family as Rhaegar entrusted him to do or sit on the Throne waiting for someone to come there? We know what Jaime chose to do:

'Then he climbed the Iron Throne and seated himself with his sword across his knees to see who would come to claim the kingdom. As it happened, it had been Eddard Stark'.

This is what is given to us in the books. Nothing more, nothing else. You can add to this of course, but that would be speculative theorizing on what Jaime's thoughts and feelings are about all this, not what is actually given to us in the books.

[carmesi-butterfly]

from me to you

vampire yang jungwon + human female reader. word count 2,3k. vampire au/fantasy au. warnings hurt/comfort, abandonment. &team's appearance. not proofread.

«From me to you. A letter for Yang Jungwon.

I miss you, Won. I don't know where you are, I don't know why you left me, and I don't know if I honestly want to hold that knowledge in my soul until my ends arrive.

Because unlike you, I'm just a mortal spirit. I desire to spend the rest of my life with you but I understand that you don't yearn for the same as me, and even if it hurts my heart, I accept it, by cause of my respect for you and your freedom, since I had the chance to meet you I noticed how you are an untied person and that's what attracted me of you, and that's why I always knew how this would end, I tried to ignore it but… such a free nature being tied to someone? The end was evident.

I'm sorry, at this point I'm just rambling about everything I can, I have sent so many letters this year and no one got a response which makes me feel a bit unmotivated, because of that I chose to start using a diary and set all my thoughts in there! I don't want to wait anymore for an answer that will never come, for a lover that will never come. A diary is for me, I feel it can help me to heal and cure my inner self.

It's my time to go, this will be my last letter meaning that is a definitive farewell for me, forgetting is not an option and even if it was I would never choose it, because ¿why would I forget you? The only man I loved, you opened my eyes to a new world full of beautiful things and a different perspective, and I will always be grateful for that. I love you Jungwon, goodbye.»

The body of a man lay on the ground of a big lounge, surrounded by an immense amount of envelopes and letters, all opened, his friends standing near him encircling the space.

"She sent fifty-five letters, those are at least one letter a week" announced Jake, impressed by the situation.

"I feel bad… maybe we shouldn't have left" followed Sunoo with a hand on his chest, slightly caressing it.

"Maybe? She was heartbroken, and this letter was from a month ago so who knows how she is now" answered Sunghoon trying to be honest, but slightly being a bit rude at the end.

All the voices resounded in Yang's ears but he didn't seem to notice.

"Guys, this is not helpful for any of us" The conversation was interrupted by Heeseung, who seemed worried about his friend's state and how the others managed the situation.

"I'm sorry, I didn't think I could cause more problems than planned" apologized the leader of the pack of wolves.

"Don't apologize, K" a soft voice echoed over the rest, comforting his friend who seemed a bit conflicted. Jungwon left the cloud forming on his mind, bringing his feet back on the earth. "It was my fault, I managed the situation poorly" his hand reached his head, messing his hair with frustration that tried to hide behind a tiny smile.

"I think it's our time to leave," offered the second oldest of the opposite group, holding his comrade's shoulder.

"Are you okay with that, Jungwon?" kei asked.

The relationship between both groups was clearly out of the ordinary, vampires and werewolves forming an alliance, it could even be considered against nature, two categories who faced each other since the start of their lineage collaborating in search of a common good: peace, not only for vampires and werewolves but for the humans too, because ignoring the amount of suffering humans caused to their people, there were a few ones with a golden heart willing to help any creature just in behalf of the mere wish of assist the fellows, precisely like you.

"Yes" affirmed, accompanied by a nod, "I think it's time to rest, especially for all of you," said referring to the predators, "we don't need sleep hours, but you do. Especially after this long trip, the best is to go rest right away"

They assented, and the head of the wolves talked again. "We owe you a favor, search for us when you need it"

By the time all the werewolves crossed the entrance their presence became undetectable, fusing with the big trees that make up the forest and blending into the darkness. With that, the vampires dispersed in the house choosing to mind their own business, leaving their friend alone to have his time for himself.

"Are you going to be okay, Jungwon?" Jay asked, preoccupied with his confidant.

"Yes, don't worry, I have to fix the mess I created" sighed, his tone became serious showing his friend everything he needed to know: determination.

Between vampires and other magical species that knew him, Jungwon had a reputation of the solve problems in his group, one that tends to be a magnet for problems as pure vampires with a high range tend to get into problems easier than other vampires with a lower status, adding to the mix the uncommon union with a few werewolves, it gives the perfect recipe of a disaster. Because of this, a case where Jungwon committed a mistake was unusual, and now in a position where he had to resolve his own problems the logic that characterizes him is pushed into the background and his heart takes the lead.

«Since I had the chance to meet you I noticed how you are an untied person and that's what attracted me of you, and that's why I always knew how this would end, I tried to ignore it but… such a free nature being tied to someone? The end was evident.» The words materialize in his mind, recalling the letter he read just a few minutes ago. "She thought I abandoned her," thought, feeling his heart break like a crystal shattering on his chest.

He has to search for you, no matter the late hours or the poor lighting because of the recent night arrival, he had a mission before and achieved it sacrificing your union in the process, his mission now was to rectify his mistake, even if that doesn't bring you back to his arms like you were before, knowing that you're aware of the events that lead him to fade away and giving the most sincere apology was enough for his soul.

As if someone dropped a spell over him his body began moving by itself, heading to a small cabin near a lake that was pretty well-known to him. It was your house, probably one of the places where he keeps most happy memories, and where a lot of new emotions blossomed on his inside.

Since the start of his long-lived life, Jungwon had the opportunity to experience what love is, the love for his brothers, for his life, for his home, for his hobbies, and the nature around him amongst a lot of other things, but the feelings unfolding in his chest caused by you were a new experience, a ton of butterflies hovering on his stomach directing to his heart, a heart that hasn't beat in a long time but now felt warm and alive.

His journey ended with your portico in front of him, a lamppost lit up the entrance that was decorated with bindweed hanging over the top of it, flower pots beside the door; red carnations, crimson roses, and few aloes. Like a final touch, baby's breath surrounded the area. All of those plants were new, there was no way you could keep a plant alive, because as you said to him once: «I always forget to water my flowers! This is the third time I have killed a cactus, why do I have to be so reckless?».

Without noticing, tears started to fall from his eyes, on a familiar place that felt distant, with flora that didn't have to be there and memories from a faraway moment that now felt overwhelming, the young Jungwon got off the deep end, crying intensely while all sorts of emotions impact him, the remorse and fear, he should have told you, even if it was an emergency, how long would it have taken to inform you about the recent urgency? He just needed to tell you, but he didn't, and now he probably lost you forever, and that's such a long time for a vampire. Despite his recent thoughts about not needing your love again and only wanting to deliver his apologies in search of your wellness, his body quivered just thinking about it, the suffocating feeling of knowing that he could lose the person who showed him what is love, was eating what he had left of a soul.

But the situation had to be confronted, he was the one who chose to appear, if he had to talk to you with his face full of tears, reddish eyes, and his nose dripping then he would.

Three knocks on the door were enough to wake you up, and distrust invaded you while thinking "Who is knocking on my door at this time?" it was suspicious not to say the least, at first you decided to not open it, perhaps whoever was knocking your door in the middle of the night would choose to just go and come back in the morning, but when the second banging started it worried you, what if someone is in danger? There were sightings of wolves near your area, it could be someone at risk of being attacked and searching for help in the desolate house close to the forest. As a precaution you approached the front door with a sword in hand, maybe it was a bit exaggerated for the situation, but the elegant weapon had sentimental value being a gift from an old lover who yearned for your safety.

"Who's there?" you asked, raising your voice as a try to make your voice clearer for the person on the other side.

"I-I am Jungwon…" mumbled, his weak voice exposing the crying session he had just a few minutes before.

The answer petrified you, it was him, it was his voice, after a year of waiting patiently, after months of feeling heartbroken, and after a few weeks of giving up on ever seeing your significant other again, it happened, Jungwon came back. Without a doubt, you opened the door desperately searching for your once-lover, dropping the sword in the process.

When the entrance opened, both maintained an ecstatic stand, you wanted to jump into his arms, searching for the warmth and comfort only Yang can give you.

Taking the initiative the boy said "Hi, y/n…" while collecting the courage needed for the words he was planning to say. "I know that maybe it's not the best moment to come and that it's egoistic on my own to show up like this… but I couldn't wait anymore, not after all this time".

The words unfolded through your ears like soft petals falling out of a tree, it was enough for your tears to start sliding over your cheeks until they reached the end of your jaw, and a gasp came out of your mouth "Did you receive my letters?".

"I wasn't here to read them, but I've received all of them. I never knew you could write so good" A tiny smile showed up on his face, emphasizing his soft cheeks and shrinking his sharp eyes.

"I thought I was never going to see you again" cried with a weak voice, "Where were you?... Why did you disappear just like that?" the efforts of the boy in attempting to make a more agreeable space for the conversation worked, in spite of your questions each one more intense than the other one, your body language demonstrated comfort, especially for the way your eyes searched his and your distance reduced discreetly with a few steps made by you.

"I can explain everything, that doesn't mean you have to forgive me" Delicately his hands cupped your face, brushing your cheeks softly.

"Why wouldn't I forgive you?" you asked, a smile showing up on your face while your hands took his and caressed them, also maintaining the embrace on your cheeks.

The question confused Jungwon, who didn't manage to formulate a question before you talked again.

"Even if you truly leave, I forgive you, because that's what you decided although my heart may not take it well," said with a giggle "I already forgave you, there's no bone in my whole body that can be mad at you" the happiness you tried to demonstrate was overshadowed by crystalline years balling through your eyes. "I love you Won, and love hurts sometimes, I'm willing to experience that pain for you" Your testimony shocked the vampire, who felt touched by your words.

"I don't desire to hurt you, not anymore" And with that, helping himself with the grab he had on your face, Jungwon placed a kiss on your lips, after a long time of missing this kind of connection. A few seconds passed and the kiss got intense, the result of more than a year of dreaming with any dose of contact now unleashing, but sadly, you need to breathe. When the kiss broke, with irregular breathing spoke "Maybe we should talk inside… so I can explain everything, and you can talk to me about your new hobbies" referring to the new plants that formed part of the environment, "I'm interested in reading your diary entries if you let me"

All the pages you had the opportunity to fill talked about him, from top to bottom without wasting any minimal space, and because of that the petition made you feel a bit embarrassed, but you agreed intending to show more from you to him.

[still-a-morosexual-help]

Your hug post reminded me of this moment from lesson 21 (?) And HNNNNGGGGGGGG KISSING MAMMON IS GREAT BUT HUGGING MAMMON IS?!!!!!! I JUST WANNA SQUEEZE SQUEEZE SQUEEEEZEEEE HIM AND BURY OUR HEADS IN EACH OTHER'S NECKS SJSJDJDKFKFK

That "Ahhhh" is so relatable ISTG after I chose the hugging option my soul has never been that satiated. Happy, contented, and happy. That's what I am.Especially since this is the proper reunion between us after being apart for almost a year (?) ｡:ﾟ(;´∩`;)ﾟ:｡And now I'm dying to hug Mammon irl 😭

I remembered how my heart fluttered at this and now I want to scream at you about this I'm so sorry 😭

MC and Mammon's hugs are the best honestly! I also think Mammon's the character that MC gets to hug the most? Since I don't choose the romantic options for any of the other characters, things usually end with a hug and still MC & Mammon seem to hug a lot more than the others.

My favourite are probably;

1. the hug in S2 after Mammon tells them breaking the pact won't change anything between them. It's the first hug he initiates and MC ends up feeling like the whole situation made them closer with each other and it's just very good

2. the hug in S3 right after they meet up again. Where they go from teasing each other to just falling into a hug and it felt very natural? And like a relief? Like they'd both being waiting to do that yknow?

And speaking of how good and important MC and Mammon's hugs are;

Remember that escape room event which ended up being MC's dream? Where they had to do some small task with each brother to get out of the rooms and the tasks themselves didn't take much time at all but then the task for Mammon was to hug him for one whole hour????? What was that about!? What insane bias does MC have!? Mammon's hugs are probably warm and tight and a little bit desperate

[callmeklair]

declaration

Chapter six

“I miss him. I miss my father.”

It was starting to get annoying for Shin in all this noise, he had lived long enough in the quietness of Bandmaden that now such rowdiness only put him on edge as it did in school. Not to mention the stench of humans and their creepy emotions swirling in the air was making his nose itch. Also he only wanted to spend more time with this girl who has the founder's blood to find opportunities and trick her into their den.

There was only one option left now.

He slowly covered Yui's mouth and dragged both of them away from the scenario into a nearby cloth shop. Yui almost screamed when a hand covered her lips but inhaling the familiar scent of walnuts, calmed down. 

After making sure Shu didn't notice their disappearance because of all the girls crowding him, Shin gave a sigh of relief. 

“don't do that again! I almost screamed and got scared.” 

“I'm sorry Yui but I had no option, if I would have told you then he would have definitely noticed.” 

Yui gave him a puzzled look, not understanding his underhand intentions which only made Shin sigh in defeat at her gulliblity. He stepped forward closing off the distance between their bodies as his mouth moved near her right ear and whispered in a low voice, smiling. 

“cause… I wanted to be alone with you.”  

Yui blushes deeply at his seductive voice and the distance between their bodies becoming speechless not knowing what to concentrate on — the distance between their bodies or his words? 

“what can I help you with?” a female shop attendant interrupted them ruining Shin's mood as his opportunity was snatched. 

Yui looked around and saw that it was a casual clothes shop, so there's no way they can get a prom dress from here. maybe Shin took them here in the spur of the moment? 

“Please bring us some casual clothes” The attendant nodded and took out some random casual dresses and cloth sets from racks after scanning them for a few seconds to take in the guess of their sizes.

“cause… I wanted to be alone with you” 

Yui's face started becoming hot as what Shin said earlier became clear after seeing how he requested for casual clothes. 

The shopkeeper came out with several dresses and Yui was very confused and nervous about what to choose. She hasn't gone out for months to shop for herself after moving in with the vampires' as she was busy being kidnapped, whether inside the residence among the brothers or outside from the other family, Mukamis'. so currently she was wearing the same outfit she wore when she went out with Shin to the carnival. 

she thought it's just a dance practice so that outfit set would be the most comfortable to pack up in the school bag but… things turned out unexpectedly. 

she was very embarrassed now but with a sad look on her face. even if it was a practice she should have thought about it more than being excited to be with him. what must he think of her? no doubt he brought her into this shop to get her new clothes. 

“oh this looks perfect! with this he won't be able to find us”

‘us?’ Yui looked to see that Shin was picking out clothes not only for her but also for himself. And just with that her all sad thoughts vanished instantly. 

‘ah, he didn't want Shu-san to find us. That's why he requested a change of clothes not because I'm wearing the same… it somehow makes me happy’

now that Yui thinks of it, he never questioned her clothes when she changed into them for practice and neither showed any slight expression of disappointment or confusion. atleast not infront of her. 

Shin secretly took Yui's right hand and then dumped the clothes he chose in them. This got Yui's attention and she jumped at his physical touch in a shy way. 

he picked out a short sea blue dress with puffed half sleeves. there was a ribbon on the waistline, tied as a bow at the corner of the waist on the front side. the hem of the dress was covered with a few inches of thin white border. 

It was simple yet very pretty. just like her preference. 

Yui smiled as she rushed in the changing room to try them out, still shy from his physical touch. 

weird, he is starting to give her butterflies in the stomach. 

the dress fitted her. it's exactly her size. he had a good eye for her size… no that absolutely came out wrong. Yui blushes more as the steam starts evaporating from her head now. 

‘crazy. I'm starting to get crazy.’ 

Shin has already changed into his set of clothes as he waited for Yui to change while remembering how she jumped at his touch just now. the expression on her face was very cute. he wanted to see it more. from day one he had been seeing a lot of expressions of her and not to mention her way of reacting makes him wants to mess with her more to see those sherbet round eyes of her become wide, red dying her puffy cheeks. 

…

‘what did I just…!? No, the only goal is to carry out the bloodline and that woman is necessary for it. it's the only sole reason I'm hanging around with her and bearing with that sluggish vampire. nothing more nothing less.’ 

Yui came out but as soon as she did, she wished she didn't. the shopkeeper was at the door in case she needed anything but, “Matching couple fits. that's cute! Your boyfriend has a good eye” 

Shin was wearing a sea blue t-shirt and black pants.

they were matching! No more than that, the shopkeeper misunderstood Shin as her boyfriend.

she had just calmed herself down after a lot of efforts of slapping her cheeks and taking deep breaths inside the changing room. Even it took time for Shin to realise that he had actually selected matching clothes. It was totally an accident. He liked blue colour so he only chose the t-shirt of that specific colour but for Yui… he just thought she would look good in it. it matches her preferences too. 

thoughts about Yui's part only made matters worse for him. He is a founder! such things can't waver him and his pride. 

Shin took a calming breath as he told the shopkeeper to just check out as they are in a hurry. 

Yui didn't ask Shin why he didn't bother to explain but she understood that it'll just make matters worse. Though the thought of him as her boyfriend was intriguing to her. 

Until now she had never thought of such things. she did dream about finding someone she'll love after hearing all those exciting discussions of the group of girls that gathered beside her bench in middle school to gush about things with each other but as she grew she decided to be a nun instead. 

But now, after the eventful past months she went through, even that is not possible. so the thought of Shin as her boyfriend is appealing. she never thought she'll get to interact with a normal person and more than that, hang out like this. 

she really has ignored the danger related to the founders. no more than that, aren't founders suddenly so quiet. there hasn't been any action from their side since she met Shin…  

no no, she can't let her overthinking ruin her once in a while normal moments. she can discuss all these with Shu later. 

- In Town :

Shin is looking out and making sure Shu is not around to suddenly pop up and ruin his chances with Yui. Meanwhile Yui is looking around the view of lively town. It's been long since she had felt this free.

when she went to carnival with Shin, she was actually on edge every second due to the brothers keeping an eye on her and the threat of unknown founders. but the more she spent time with Shin, the more she calmed and felt free. 

This is the second time, and again in his presence she is feeling free. 

“tch, so many people. lowlives.” Shin complained but made sure the last part of lowlives comes out quitely or else his facade will be lifted. but it was too late, Yui had already heard it but kept quiet. 

Yui was always aware of the arrogance air around Shin just like it is around the brothers. even though she is being selfish for herself, she is not that stupid to not recognise the familiar atmosphere of arrogance around him. 

“dad! dad! there's a sale on those new toys cars, can we pleaseeee~ get it” a boy tucked at his father's shirt with his little hands pleading, and the father lifted his son up with a happy look and hugged him in his arms. 

“of course, anything for my son!” and they proceeded to enter the toy shop. 

Shin and Yui watched this scene as both started to reminiscent. Yui has been feeling this heavy burden after she find out about her adoption. it didn't matter if she adopted, he always treated her like his own. but abandoning her here suddenly… after all he was one of the people alongside church who requested her to move out. 

“You know Shin-kun, I was raised by an only parent, my father. even though he was most of the time busy with the church work, he always took out time for me and spoiled me. I moved out to a totally different country for study opportunities and on request of church, which included my father. After moving here with my distant relatives, I found out that I'm adopted.” 

Shin didn't knew what to say. no one has ever shared any of their personal feelings with him. When he looked at Yui, he saw her eyes gazing distantly, it was like what she was saying was a silent outburst she has been suppressing. even Yui wasn't aware why she was suddenly telling him all the personal matters, when she don't even know him that deeply but maybe it's because of the comfort and hope he brings out in her. the freedom she feels. she felt an urge to lighten this burden on her chest. 

“I am not able to contact him, I tried a few times already. It makes me wonder, was I really that blinded to not notice anything because I was happy and content. I miss him. I miss my father.” just like now. there are several times she wondered if she is again blinding herself from the possible threat that might be just infront of her but she is finally happy and content after a long time of going through hell. 

“My father also always spoiled me.” Shin started. he didn't know how to comfort Yui, but he also has a common ground about his feelings towards his father just like Yui does. 

“But as you know, I have an older brother, so I always felt like that even though my father was always strict with him, it was because he is the eldest sibling. who should pave a path and set an example for his younger sibling” and as a king. 

“My father pampered me a lot, and was never strict with me. At first I didn't pay it much attention but then I thought that I was being underestimated. Yui, you were blinded by the selfishness of happiness to look up at your father, while I was blinded by the selfishness of being seen as a powerful equal to look up at my father.” 

Yui looked at Shin, finally out of her dark haze as she glanced at his eyepatch and wondered if it's related to what he said. but at same time she was glad, she was glad to have someone share her burden with who also understood it with his own experience of pain. it gives them more understanding about each other's in depth feelings because of similar experiences. Yui was really happy, she was. 

Shin and Yui looked at each other with an understanding smile, knowing they found someone to relate with. Shin held Yui's hand, but Yui went in for a hug. Shin was surprised but eventually gave in. It was awkward for him as he didn't know what to do, it's his first time receiving something like this.

“before I left, my father told me that ‘family is a special kind of bond. We’re connected, even when we’re not with each other.’ maybe that's why I still believe in him" was Yui saying it herself, aloud to boost her belief in her father or to convey the same message her father left behind for her to him, because the way he sounded, it was like his father was no more. 

or maybe it was both. 

after a few moments of silence as they relaxed in each other's grip, they parted. blushing. Yui tried to wave off the awkwardness as she randomly took a topic. Shin’s hair. 

“my strawberry blond hair? ah you might be confused because my brother's hair colour is totally silver. parallel yet of same palette. My hair is mix of my mother and father's while my brother only got his genes from his mother, welp that's how they phrased it always” 

Yui laughed at Shin's dramatic sigh and hand actions. 

“genes are typical fufu, I wonder what hair colour Shin-kun's child will have?” 

did she just make the atmosphere around them worse? yes she did. both of them were flustered and dodging each other's eye contact. Shin scratched the back of his neck as he stumbled. 

internally he thought how he and his brother were dead set on getting this woman to bear a child to continue founder's bloodline but when she blurts out question like this, it actually makes him flustered and curious. they never thought about it that deeply except the continuation of the lineage. 

maybe these are things to be mulled over actually. 

“so this is where you guys are. such a drag.”