#truth is a HINDRANCE

[biggest-gaudiest-patronuses]

Of the 19 hijackers who carried out the Sept 11 attacks:

15 were from Saudi Arabia (a powerful/oil-rich country the U.S. works hard to maintain diplomatic relations with)

2 were from the United Arab Emirates (also a powerful/oil-rich country the U.S. works hard to maintain diplomatic relations with)

1 was from Egypt, 1 from Lebanon.

None of the hijackers were from Iraq.

None of the Sept 11 hijackers were Iraqi.

None of the 9/11 hijackers were from Iraq.

[silveryclear]

MOJABI GHOST

Pairing: Miguel O’Hara X Ex Female Reader

CW: NSFW, Cunnilingus, Thigh and Knee Riding, Bilingual Dirty Talk, Penetration, Rough Sex, Needy, Desperate Sex, Mating Press, Cockwarming

Description: Miguel drops by your apartment after he can’t stand the silence of his penthouse. He misses you, and tonight, you’ll see just how much~

Translation done by yours truly~

Song: “MOJABI GHOST” by Tainy, ft. Bad Bunny

Smoking,

Drinking,

Fucking,

Pretending that I don’t think about you.

I don’t who I’m trying to kid,

For this feeling,

Won’t let me sleep.

And I wish,

I wish, that I could dream peacefully,

That I could dream about you.

Another night alone. Another night without you.

Miguel O'Hara looks over view of Nueva York while drinking from his third glass of whiskey on the rocks; rocks that have melted and diluted the drink that has been abandoned for thoughts about you.

The truth is that Miguel has abandoned many things because of his mind— the treacherous bitch does not stop thinking about you.

Who could ever stop thinking about you, is the question that he should be asking. But he doesn't. And he’s well aware why.

Because that would require him to accept the reality that he fucked up the only thing that had given him happiness and warmth after what had happened with his daughter. And once again, it’s something that he doesn’t allow himself to forgive.

At first, you were only a hindrance, an annoyance which he could not get rid of. You were always looking at him with that sweet expression, ready to face the next anomaly with a smile and good attitude. He couldn’t stand you. The fact that you could face every problem and tragedy, a particular characteristic of spiderpeople, without your spirit being corrupted ... he hated it. He hated it to death.

Yet, observe how easy it is for him to lie. Because in reality, he never hated you. How could he hate the one person who received him with such a unique and special warmth and affection— the woman who, one by one, took down each one of his walls, making them crumble to the ground and fall as he did when he fell in love with you. Although, too late.

He lets out a dry laugh. There is no doubt that he is Spider-Man: the people he loves never stay for long.

Isn't that how he ended up here in the first place?

He sighs, exhausted. I don't want to think anymore.

He takes a swig from the whiskey and frowns, letting out a sound of disgust from the watered down drink and decides to get back into the penthouse. He looks around.

And now what?

Fuck this pity party. Miguel may not be in his five senses at the moment, but he doesn’t think twice before activating his nanotech suit and traveling to your dimension. He doesn't know what is the right to do; If you prefer your space, that he never contacts you again. All he knows is that he cannot stand this purgatory; and that your screams and curses are better than the overwhelming silence of his apartment.

As soon as he steps out of the portal into your apartment, you can already sense each other. It is almost impossible to sneak up on a Spider person, that's why he isn’t surprised when he finds you sitting in your living room, staring at him without blinking.

"What are you doing here?" You ask without emotion after several seconds of silence.

"You know what I came for." he says as he removes his mask and approaches your figure. However, your cold look stops him in his tracks.

“I don't care. I want you to say it.” you say while you stare into his eyes sharply. He deserves it. "Be direct for once in your life."

"Hey," he warns, baring his fangs. “Don’t push it.”

You roll your eyes and cross your arms, ignoring his warning. "Then leave. I was clear: don't come back until you tell me how you really feel.”

"Don't you think I want to?!" Miguel shouts, frustrated; Not with you. Never with you. He closes his eyes and takes a deep breath, controlling his anger. When he opens his eyes, you’re surprised to see actual remorse. "I'm dying to have you in my arms again..."

You can’t help to soften your expression when you caught the frustration in his voice and how difficult it is to express his true emotions at the moment. "Then why the hesitation?" You ask softly, your voice a sweet melody to his ears. Then, a sudden thought makes your blood run cold. “...unless I wasn’t good enough for you.” Your voice trembles and you can't suppress the tears that arise.

Miguel’s face falls and without thinking twice, he runs to you and hugs you tightly, snaking an arm around your waist and his hand behind your neck. He listens as you sob into chest and he brings you even closer, his hand gently stroking your back. "Shh... no, my love, that can’t be further away from the truth." He whispers softly into your ear. "I am the one who’s not good enough for you."

Miguel lets out a dry, incredulous laugh. “I'm the worst… to cause the most wonderful woman in all of the multiverse to think the opposite…” He presses a kiss against your forehead and brings you closer to him. "You are the best thing that has ever happened to me. Please, forgive me for being such a coward.” He murmurs apologetically as he buries his face into your neck and breathes in your scent.

God, how I missed this smell~

He leans back and stares into your eyes, stroking your cheeks and wiping your tears.

"I love you," he declares, more confident than ever. "I don't want to keep loving you from afar. I don’t want to run away, fearing that one day I will lose you if it also keeps you far from my arms.” He presses his forehead against yours, closing his eyes and whispering the last few words full of emotion, "If I still lose you...”

"God, Miguel..." You crumble once again and hug him tightly. "I love you so much," you confess in the midst of tears. "I’m afraid too, we are both spider people, we both risk our lives to prevent Multiverse from collapsing… our job is dangerous and it is painful to think about the great possibility that I could lose you,” You look into his eyes, holding his face in your hands. "But it hurts more to have you so close, and not by my side."

"I know..." He whispers as he leans towards your sweet touch. “I'm such an idiot. I thought I was protecting you from the pain, but in reality, I hurt you even more.” He stares into your eyes, his gaze full of remorse. "You could forgive this fool in love?"

You laugh softly and Miguel swears that his heart skipped a beat. Suddenly, you look at him with a mischievous smile. "Hmm, I don't know..."

Miguel groans and looks at you with desperation, as if he needed to hear that he has been forgiven to be calm. "Love, please..." He whimpers softly against your neck, kissing it sensually.

Your grin becomes wider and playful. You take his chin and make him look into your eyes. "But you sound so nice, Miguelito~” You purr. “Do it again~”

Shit...

Miguel feels how his cheeks redden and he short circuits when he hears your playful and dominant voice. It was a side of you that he had never seen. Or rather, one he never tried to get to know. He was so obsessed with controlling everything that he never realized that he kept you from expressing yourself around him.

Damn ... he definitely deserves to beg to you.

"My love..." He kneels in front of you and takes your hands in his. He looks at you with pleading eyes. "Please, I beg you... Forgive me. Let me show you how sorry I am.”

You feel your cheeks heat up at the sight of the most stoic and stubborn man in the multiverse kneeling in front of you, begging like a dog. Is this a dream? More like a miracle.

"Wow... You really missed me, didn't you, Miguelito~?"

Miguel takes your hand and kisses your palm, staring into your eyes. "You have no idea." He whispers. Your heart skips a beat, blood rushing through your veins at an extreme speed. You feel the love that this man has for you and you cannot avoid the genuine smile that grows in your face.

You place your arms around his neck and you kiss his cheek. "I forgive you. Show me exactly how sorry you are~"

It takes Miguel less than two seconds before he is on top of you, your back on the sofa while his knee separates your legs. It seems as if all your confidence disappears as soon as Miguel touches you, his large hands gripping your waist. You feel tempted to deviate your gaze, but his crimson eyes keep you paralyzed under their intensity, full of lust.

"Oh baby..." he lets out a soft growl as his lips brush against your neck, making you shiver once more. “Eres mía~” (You’re mine~)

His fingers quickly disrobe you, his lips kissing every inch of your soft skin. His breathing quickens, breathing hot and heavy as his mouth latches onto one of your nipples, hand groping the other. He lets out soft grunts and moans of pleasure as he worships your chest, sucking and biting, leaving wet hot marks on your skin.

You grab onto his hair, your back arching off from the couch as he continues his assault. He lets out a particularly long groan when he feels you grind your wet pussy on his knee. He chuckles darkly and presses onto you even harder, making you shiver and moan in delight.

“That’s it mami…” he growls, his breath hot and heavy against your neck. “Grind that needy pussy on me… make yourself feel good.”

A sound of pleasure escapes from your lips. You close your eyes and decide to immerse yourself in the pleasure that both have refused for too long— no longer wanting to deprive your body of what it craves; and your heart from the one you love.

Your arms wrap around his neck, hips bucking against his clothed knee, soaking the nanotech fabric. He can only watch in awe how easy it was to reduce you to a sensitive mess— rubbing and pressing his thigh against your throbbing pussy, gripping your hips tighter as he guides you.

“Oh fuckkkk… Miguel…” The way you so readily give your body to him— it awakens a primal side to him that even he didn’t realize he had. The need to explore how many times he can make you cum without fucking you with his cock had his mind reeling from the possibilities.

Should he finger you now? Should he make you cum on his tongue? Ride his face?

“Miguel… oh Miguel~” you mewl, the squelching sound of your juices on his leg echoing in the room. Small puffs of hot air leave past your lips, your hips bucking so needy and desperate for friction.

However the night ends, what he does know is that he so desperately craves to hear you whine his name like that again.

“Come on, cariño…” he keeps rutting your hips against his thigh, now unclothed as his dick strains against the nanotech clothing that covers his groin. “What do you need~?”

“Need you…” You pant out, chest heaving rapidly. “Need you inside… please Miguel~”

He chuckles darkly. “Already? But baby, we just started~” He teases, slowing down the rubbing against your clit, making you whine in frustration.

“Fuck that! I missed you, maldito!” You growl, making Miguel’s eyes widen when you voice out your frustrations.

This makes Miguel chuckle heartedly, gazing down at you with affection and primal lust. “You missed my cock that much, baby~?”

“Not your cock. You.” This startles Miguel, actually making him blush. His chest fills with so much love and affection for you. God, he needs you so badly.

“Te amo, mi arañita…” (I love you, my little spider…) Miguel murmurs softly before leaning down and claiming your lips softly. A low moans escape from your lips as you feel just how serious he is. “Missed you… missed your touch…” he breathes out against your neck once he pulls away, his lips brushing against your skin. Miguel shivers and groans, loving the way your warm, soft skin feels against his. You can only watch as he worships you, too paralyzed by this feeling to speak. “Missed your smell…” he inhales your scent softly before pressing a kiss on your neck. “Missed your voice… let me hear it please…”

“Ahhhh… Miguel…” you find your voice, breathing out your response as your chest rises and falls rapidly, trembling underneath him.

“Fuck…” he groans from your needy voice. Miguel trails wet kisses down your hot skin, licking away your sweat. His fangs lightly graze your thighs, teasing you with his tongue. He chuckles when you arch your back, whimpering his name, begging to take you— to do something already!

He grins as he kisses the inside of your thigh. “You’ve never been very patient.”

You whine, your hand making it’s way to his hair and tugging him closer to your throbbing pussy. He chuckles and licks a long, agonizing swipe along your glistening folds, making you groan in response. “Good thing I’ve never been very patient either~”

Miguel takes his time, swirling his tongue, lapping up your juices— yet, the way that he grips your thighs, so close to digging his claws into your skin while he groans from your taste— it only makes him look more desperate and feral than when he first begged for you.

You jolt and shiver in delight, the drag of his fat, warm tongue bringing you to heights of pleasure you only had the joy of experiencing with Miguel. The feelings of pleasure were so delicious and excruciating, it makes you buck your hips against his face. You grind your pussy on his face unashamedly, his nose brushing against your clit deliciously.

Watching from below, how your hips arch and you tug harder on his hair is all that Miguel needed to die happily. His groans and harsh breathing muffled by your desperate grinding.

“Mmm… shlppp… mmnh…” His eyes remain trained on your cute expressions, a particularly harsh suck of your clit eliciting a whiny moan from you that had him reeling.

“Fuck… Miguel…! I’m so close!” You whine so pretty and needy. His claws digging dig into your thighs, pressing his face harder against your cunt as he eats you out like an animal.

Miguel moans against your cunt, murmuring for you to cum on his tongue, to do it now. It comes out a wet, muffled mess, but you didn’t care. You were already a moaning mess as you came, spreading your juices all over Miguel’s face. His tongue works on your core like a man dying of thirst, lapping up every drop of your juices and overstimulating the fuck out of you. He never came up for air, submerged between your thighs, delving his tongue deeper, sucking harder. This is where he belongs.

“Mi— Miguel! It’s too much..!” You whine, trying to push his head away but he’s glued to your pussy— and he’s not moving until he’s licked you clean.

After a few more seconds, he gives your pussy one last lick before he comes back up, his tongue hanging out as he smiles smugly. You twitch and writhe underneath him from the overstimulation, gazing at him with a satisfied and dazed expression. He tantalizingly drags his long tongue around his mouth, lips, chin… cleaning up your cum from his face, making sure you watch. “Dios mío, que rico sabes mami~” (My god, you taste delicious mami~)

You whimper, your hole twitching at the erotic display. Miguel watches as your pussy flutters with primal lust, smiling at you like a predator. “You liked that, baby? Do you still want more?”

Before you could respond, Miguel is on top of you, claiming your lips in a hot, sensual kiss. You groan at the taste of yourself on his lips, this only turning you on even further. He grips your ass, bringing your wet core towards his now fully unclothed and erect cock.

“Mmmngh… mmnh… ahhhhh…” You whimper into the kiss as he grinds his cock against your sensitive folds, spreading your juices all over.

“You want this cock, baby? Huh? I can’t hear you. Tell me how badly you want me. Tell me. Tell me how badly you want me to fuck you.” Miguel whispered into your ear as he kept grinding himself against you, teasing you once again. You can only cry out, frustration building up inside of you as you feel your hole squeezing against nothing, craving his thick cock.

“Please… Miguel…”

“Dime lo que quieres preciosa… ¿quieres que te lo meta? ¿Sí? ¿Quieres que te coja?” (Tell me what you want, precious… you want me to put it in? Yeah? You want me to fuck you?)

“Yes, Miguel! Just… please!”

As much as he loves teasing you, he needed to nestle his cock inside of you. Right. Now.

“M’gonna bury this cock deep inside you… make sure your pussy remembers the shape of my cock…” He chuckles as he lines himself up with your hole and slowly pushes his cock past that first, tight ring inside your cunt. “Fuck… such a tight fit… bet you didn’t fuck anyone with a dick as big as mine…” he groans and pushes further. “no other cock can stretch you out like mine can…”

“No one… only you…” you breathe out in satisfaction as you finally feel your pussy getting full. “M’so full…”

Miguel lets out a string of curses and groans at the feeling of your tight pussy pulsating around him. “Yeah, that’s right baby… only my cock can fill you up this good.” He smirks as he looks down at you, caged between his arms and large body. “Gonna let me fuck this pussy, huh? Want me to pound you until you can’t think?”

“Yes, Miguel! Yes!”

That’s all the confirmation he needed before he started rutting his hips against yours at a fast pace. No time to start slow, no. This is the type of desperate and primal sex that lovers have after they’ve gone a long time without seeing each other. The type that builds up overtime only to be released in the heated thrust of each other’s hips. The type that has you moaning out gibberish and wrapping your arms and legs around him as Miguel thrusts his hard cock inside, going feral on your pussy.

“Fuck… I missed this… I missed you…” Miguel grunts with every thrust, small puffs of air leaving his lips as he ruts even faster, deeper. His muscles flex with every movement. He presses his hot body against yours, feeling your tits brush against his chest with every thrust.

“M-Miguel… please… harder!” You moan, digging your nails into his broad back.

“Yes…” his voice is so rough, so hungry that it’s almost jarring. Every word he says, every look on his face seems to radiate his intense feelings for you.

He needs you, oh, does he need you.

His arms are like steel on your body, keeping you still within his grasp, and he makes you feel every inch of him, pounding himself into you in a frenzy. This is what he had been looking for, needing. He fills your entire existence for just a moment, completely and utterly enraptured by you.

“Te amo… te amo tanto…” (I love you… I love you so much…) he whispers into your ear, biting and sucking on it. One of his hands makes its way between your legs as he rubs your clit. “Ven conmigo, bebé… I need you to cum with me…” (Come with me, baby…)

“Miguel! Ohh… I’m g- Mmm… Ahhhh~!” Your moans are muffled by his lips against yours. The pounding of his cock, his thumb rubbing your pussy, and this hot, searing kiss was all you needed to finally let go. Squelching hot cum bathes Miguel’s cock and balls as you tremble and writhe in ecstasy.

“That’s it, baby… god, you did so good…” he groans, placing your forehead against his as he ruts his hips faster. Grunting as he chases his own release. Not long after, Miguel is cumming inside your pussy, spurting hot loads of his cum so deep you can feel it in your womb. The moans he lets out sound so raw and desperate, you feel like you’re watching a whole other person.

He sighs in satisfaction, pressing a kiss on your forehead before laying down besides you. He pulls you into his body, his cock twitching as he keeps it nestled deep inside your cunt.

“Fuck… I don’t think I’ve ever come this much…” Miguel lets out a breathy laugh and you look at him in awe. The afterglow of your session makes him look so… ethereal. You blush and involuntarily clench your pussy around his cock.

Miguel chuckles. “I felt that, preciosa~”

You roll your eyes and look away from him, flustered. “Then take it out!”

“Mmm… why should I~? I very much prefer having you close like this.” Miguel inhales in your scent and presses a tender kiss on your neck. The action flusters you further, making you blush at his sweetness and his opposing teasing.

“Te amo, mi vida…” (I love you, my life..) He whispers softly as he closes his eyes, bringing you closer into his embrace.

You smile softly and close your eyes as well, slowly dozing off. Not before you utter the same words back, “Te amo, Miguelito~”

.

.

.

.

A/N: A little fun fact: this fic was originally written in Spanish first because I wanted to practice writing (specifically smut) in my native language. I might end up posting both languages on AO3.

[trdphone]

#hindrances also part of the #truth. Best #embrace them I guess... https://www.instagram.com/p/Bn1g8JtFtdU/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[yuellii]

flawless night, forevermore

feat. ayato, baizhu, alhaitham, childe, kaveh, raiden ei ( separate )

𝐈𝐍 𝐖𝐇𝐈𝐂𝐇 they are so obviously in love with you

( or, in which i tie them to a taylor song i’ve been crazing over, but you don’t have to know the songs to read / understand )

note. reader’s gender unspecified, no other warnings

> part one / part two ( more characters )

KAMISATO AYATO. lover

His lips curled up with a fathomless fondness he did not even notice about himself. His ticklish gaze, his admiring eyes, his comforting silence—such a poor, poor man drowning in his hopelessness, falling love struck into the night.

Even atop the dewy grass that stained his carefully tailored clothes, he paid no mind to the mess as he preferred to hear you talk instead. The intelligence of a Kamisato was long forgone in the melody of your voice, and perhaps you had strum his heartstrings too much to the point he loses his senses. He forgets a lot of things about himself when he’s with you, perhaps at one point, even his own name.

Kamisato, the name that ties him to a lifetime of formality and not a single night of rest. A dreary lifetime that does not allow him to learn the wonders of love. But oh, how he loves you.

“I’ve always wanted one of those cute little tea tables,” you muttered into the cool winds under the glowing moon. Your finger absentmindedly traced an oval into the air, a motion that had his head following your invisible drawing. “We can sit together in the mornings and have tea before work.”

“Then we’ll get one,” Ayato affirmed. He failed to notice how his own grin had widened, simply as an automatic reaction from seeing your pleased smile at his response. “Little cushions for us to sit in, too,” he added on. “You know those round ones? We can have them in our favorite colors.”

Look at him, blushing over silly cushions.

There’s a dazzling haze in his eyes when he’s like this. It’s a spark that never runs out once ignited, for he has a history of rambling when he’s with you. “There is this porcelain tea set we can get, which has a pattern I know you’ll like,” he’ll say, further jumping to “And it comes in a set of four—we can always invite Ayaka and Thoma over to drink with us.” He’ll go on and on like this, fantasizing of a life where you lived together, happily ever after.

He’s imagined this for eons in his head. Such innocent-presenting ideas and remarks, but it’s obvious in the way he talks so fast. It’s ridiculously evident the more excited he gets as the night stretches on, that he’s been daydreaming of the moment you move in with him, so he may love you every day.

All he asks is to be forever yours, for as long as time permits.

⎯ ✧ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯

BAIZHU. sparks fly

It almost never rained in Liyue.

But his words were such a booming thunderstorm that no water droplet could ever compare, even amidst this cold, grey afternoon. And only when he finally blew you away like a thin stack of cards, did he feel a sharp sense of emptiness at the sight of you running off into the pouring rain.

Baizhu admitted that you were a burden to him. Boring, unintelligent, annoying—that you were a hindrance to be around. You were only a distraction to Qiqi, and more importantly, a bothersome presence to him.

It took all his willpower just to spit such venom from his tongue straight to your face—all his might just to convince you that seeing him is a bad idea. And yet, you still called him a liar.

“You mean none of those words,” you sharply inhaled via short, speechless breaths. He could tell you were breaking down from his hateful speech, but to his guilt, it was exactly what he wanted to see from you. “You’re just trying to drive me away again,” you spat out. You were trying to convince yourself: that fact alone was clear to him. But the longer he stayed quiet despite biting back the truth—biting back that he has fallen so immensely deep in love with you—you began to doubt yourself.

But the moment he watched your figure break down past this storm, he immediately crumbled with a sense of guilt much stronger than any curse he has ever wished upon himself.

Perhaps he was too harsh on you. Archons, perhaps he was too mean—this was exactly why he didn’t deserve you. You deserved better than such a sick, lowly man who could not even live for himself, instead binding his life to save others instead.

But still, even after all his own revelations and realization of his nonexistent self worth…

He was still a greedy, selfish man.

And that selfishness had him running right out of his door and into the pouring rain, not caring at how the sudden cold nipped and picked at his skin, or how the winds beat at his frail body. Not even the Archons could halt such a starvation for salvation—it was the only spark he had left to chase.

In this cold, dreary life—in this cold, dreary day alone—you still shone like the sun under the dim streetlights of Liyue upon this pale grey sky. His body still eased the moment you caught his eye, almost as if your gaze alone had suddenly removed every drop of sickness he self-injected into his own bloodstream, or as if you were the cure he was looking for all his life.

Such selfishness once again had his body fighting from collapsing when he desperately fell into your arms that held him so dearly. And the greed of mankind only snapped when found his lips settled so hopelessly against yours, clinging onto your kiss as if he would die tonight.

Truly, maybe he would. But for now, in your embrace, he feels the strongest he’s ever been since he sold his soul.

⎯ ✧ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯

ALHAITHAM. enchanted

Archons, he hated these events, though he had no choice but to attend. No one could ever allow the Acting Grand Sage, even if he held so much spite, to escape the demeaning eyes of Sumerean publicity.

Alhaitham held himself as an independent soul. But this formalwear, this clanging of champagne glasses, this suffocating air—were definitely not so independent nor free.

This hall of aspiring young scholars and old men, all in one exhibit for the sake of research and networking. Academics is what they acclaim, but the Acting Grand Sage may be too thick of a personality for them (if he had one at all). But the only thing keeping his eyes open from boredom, quite surprisingly a person, was you.

You, who looked young compared to these much older alumni and long-time scholars. And it was truly you, out of the many faces in this room, who he could not name.

Your eyes met from across the room. Such a sliver of a chance—his eyes whispered a curious glance from the opposite wall among this dreary sea of scholars. There was a spark graced by the Electro Archon, perhaps; or maybe even a gush of wind from the God of Anemo. But every sense of composure was lost when his body moved on its own, walking himself closer and closer just to meet you.

It begins with hello; it always does. It continues with quick remarks, with “I’ve never seen you before,” and with “Have we met?” And soon enough, he feels like he’s in school again. He feels a flutter he has not known in years, an urge to talk quicker than he can think. The crinkle at the corner of your eyes has him immersed in amazement. The sole fact that you can crack a smile at him; a smile that wasn’t fake politeness like all these scholars.

For some reason unbeknownst to him, that expression of yours alone had his feet glued to the floor, like you’ve trapped him in such an engaging conversation he desperately could not let go. It was a forcibly dreadful night—you turned it flawlessly enchanting in a way that you read to him like a book, all in which he could not put you down once he begins.

And once the event ends, and he is forced to leave you so soon, he watches you walk away with an expression that he himself could not even read.

Wonderstuck.

He would never notice the light tint on his face, staining his cheeks all the way home.

⎯ ✧ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯

CHILDE. cruel summer

Left foot, right foot, tiptoe, right foot—hold the counter, hold the wall, hold the rail all the way up the steps… He’s got this.

One step down the hall, another foot down, a third one until he finds a steady rhythm. The room is hazy, the walls are spinning. His head hurts and he feels like a baby taking his first steps, so helpless and unsteady that he almost wants to cry again from exasperated frustration alone. Why was this so hard? Did he really hate himself so much, that he would stagger his way home from the bar like this?

One hand on the door, turn the knob, and—

Ah. He dropped his keys so loudly on the floor.

You woke up with a start from the bedside, immediately turning to him wide-eyed in both starling surprise from the noise, and more importantly, concern. He didn’t mean to wake you. He hated feeling guilty, but it was the exact feeling that crept up his spine once he saw the devastated look on your face. Frenzied eyes and dark circles—clearly you had stayed up just to wait for him, too.

“Ajax,” you voiced—a tone full of worry and heavy exhaustion, God, he felt so horrible. “Oh, Ajax, come here.”

As much as he didn’t like it when you cared for him like this, he was not immune to the sounds of your calling. His shaky legs carried him immediately, as if the alcohol in his system was pulling him towards you, too. “I’m fine,” he barely stuttered out. It was a claim he had to make immediately, a sign he was desperate to reassure you.

Your eyes grew heavier, though he did not know if they were lidded from concern or from sleepiness. Either way, he practically melted from the touch of your palms resting against his cheeks. So warm, but a much more pleasant warmth than the burning summer air that he just walked in, all the way home with a liquor-dazed mind.

“Have you been crying…?” Ah, and that was why your eyes were narrow—they were squinting at the sorry stains of tears that lined his cheeks. He forgot to wipe them, it seemed. It was almost laughable.

“No, just sweat from the heat.”

Crying over you… He’d never let you know that. To cry, to bleed, to die—you would never be the first person he tells.

“You reek of liquor…” Quite disgustingly so, he thinks. And yet, you still held his face so fondly, moving his head in such a gentle manner as you swiped his tear stains with the pads of your thumbs.

He stayed silent. He had no answer to this one.

“I love you,” he mutters, though it’s a confession nevertheless. And he says it so sadly—so miserably that you couldn’t help but sigh. He hates it, too. He hates it when you sigh. Because when you sigh, it means you’ll just let it go; No matter how many lies he tells, or how many times he cries, or how many secrets he keeps, you’ll still accept him like always.

“I love you, too.” And that was the worst line he’s ever heard.

⎯ ✧ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯

KAVEH. foolish ones

“Oh, woe is me…” Loves me, loves me not, loves me… “Did you happen to see anything in the mailbox?”

His roommate stared. “Go check it yourself.”

Kaveh heavily sighed. He couldn’t; He physically could not bear to do it. It’s not that he was lazy to get up, no. The real issue was the genuine grief he would feel when he opened the mailbox, only to see nothing inside. No special gifts, no romantic letters, and absolutely no confessions of love signed with your name.

It was embarrassing, really. To feel this dramatic and obsessed with words of admiration from you—oh, especially when Alhaitham found out about this whole lovesick ordeal. But he could not help his mind from just imagining it: the reflection of himself in your eyes as you finally confess your feelings of passion and love for him (feelings that didn’t exist, feelings he merely imagined you having, all so pathetically).

But he’s so weird, and he’s so terrible. To imagine a fabled life with you when you probably did not think about him this same way. How foolish. Did you daydream about him like he daydreamed about you every night before he slept? Did you think about him like he thought about you every time he sees your favorite color in the passing? Did you wait at your mailbox like he waited for any letters from you? No. No, you didn’t.

And he’s cried, quite humiliatingly. He’s cried that the perfect life he could picture himself having with you at his side would never be a reality. He’s cried a downpour of tears, simply because he allowed himself to be so caught up in a delusion that was so sick of him to conjure up.

“Are you free for dinner tonight?”

“So sorry Kaveh, I already have plans…”

Plans with someone else. No wonder you hadn’t written him any messages, or contacted him in a while. That… was not the scenes he had in his head. His imaginations, his hopes, his dreams—they did not have someone else in them. For someone he was so hopelessly in love with, he felt so much hurt. A foolish lesson to be learned by a foolish romantic.

In the end, he’d just be talking himself to sleep again. He’d just smile at the sight of you flourishing. Without him, your world will go on turning. A world full of reciprocated love and devotion, one that he would never know.

⎯ ✧ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯

RAIDEN EI. you belong with me

The Raiden Shogun was self-destructive. No more than a few people knew of such a fact, but she was certainly one of them.

Because if she cared for her own wellbeing, truly, then she would not fall for selfish desires. Nor, would she be here now, sitting next to you outside a sliding screen in her private gardens of Tenshukaku, sipping your favorite tea and hearing your sweet voice ramble about something so unpleasant to her ears. If she prioritized her own emotions, then maybe she’d be living in blissful ignorance right now instead of listening to your woes over a lover… A lover that was not her.

“And then, she teases me,” you complained, though it was clear you hated it. You didn’t like whining about your partner, which was a good thing—but it made Ei feel sick, because it meant you really loved that woman. “I know she does that all the time, and I just need to get used to it,” you continued, “but sometimes, it gets too much, and she still doesn’t stop.”

But I wouldn’t do that to you, the archon thinks to herself. And suddenly, the tea isn’t as appetizing anymore, because her own words felt drilled onto her tongue, forever forbidden to speak aloud.

“Miko… Has always been like that,” Ei quietly admits instead. She doesn’t want to insult your lover, for that same person was also her own friend. She wanted to be supportive, but it was impossible when she was so in love with you, that she spent every second of each passing day just wishing she was in Miko’s place instead.

“Yeah… But—still, I mean…” You sighed, coming to a loss for words to describe the pink haired shrine maiden. “Is it really so hard to ask just for her to understand how I’m feeling…?” you whined in what seemed like genuine distress. Your face sunk into your hands, and it took all of Ei’s willpower just to keep her respective distance from a romantically taken friend.

But I understand how you feel, Ei once again thinks. She feels so dirty of a friend for comparing herself like this. I understand you better than she will ever.

“Ei…” you muttered. She almost chokes from the way you say her name. “What should I do…?”

Be with me, instead. “Don’t cry over something, or someone, you cannot control. It’s possible your personalities are just not fit for each other, you know.”

“But I love her, Ei…”

Ouch.

She clears her throat, recovering from sharp breath of air she just inhaled. A part of her just broke in that moment, and it was so obvious, too—her expression quickly changed, her body became stiff, her balance suddenly shifted, and yet…

You noticed none of it. Your head was too clouded over love for another woman that was not her; So clouded, in fact, you did not notice the way Ei almost began to tremble. The misery you carried only crafted tenfold for the archon, eternally unbeknownst to you.

But you don’t belong to her, anyways. So why was she crying?

[rukkiya]

goodbye isn’t for forever

(al haitham x reader, zhongli x reader (separate)

༻ part 2 to take it back༺

al haitham ⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚

It's been two weeks since you’ve left.

The once lively apartment Al Haitham had taken for granted was no more, it was far too quiet for the scholar.

The silence was far too loud. He couldn’t concentrate on his work.

The same work that had led him to push you away.

He’s seen you around of course, he checks up on you and makes sure you’re doing well through mutual friends or passing by shops/places you’d both go together.

He hasn’t slept properly since you’ve left, he doesn’t remember the last time he was alone in bed without you next to him.

He thinks back to the times you’d wake up at night and get him from his study, dragging him to bed because he has to be up at the crack of dawn because you wanted him to sleep, because you cared. Now he’s stays wide awake, not worrying about work or other matters for once, instead he was worried about you.

No one has brought it up to him though, they couldn't.

He thought he was hiding it well, keeping it masked under his unrelenting face but the emotions he felt were being shown through his eyes.

During Al Haithams meeting with Cyno he was stammering, taking one too many pauses because he couldn't concentrate on anything. Cyno merely eyes the two wedding bands linked around a silver chain sitting on top of the scholar's chest but says nothing of it, well that is because he already knows.

“Have you tried talking things out? He looks like shit.” Cyno sits next to you, handing you a bottle of water sighing when he sees the corners of your lips tug down at the mention of Al Haitham.

“I can’t, after what he’s done. What makes you think that he wants me in his life anyways? Look, he was the one who threw his wedding band at me. I didn’t do it, he did.” You lay your head on the table huffing as Cyno sighs again.

He doesn’t like seeing you this way. He’s not the most fond of Al Haitham but seeing him down, with an expression other than a punchable face, it actually makes Cyno feel bad for him. You both being this torn was more on you guys than you expected.

“You miss him, you miss him more than you're letting on. From what I can see he misses you too.” Cyno leans back on his seat, you slightly turn your forehead on the table to glance at him, seeing that knowing look he always wears when he knows he’s right.

“Y/n, for as long as I’ve known Al Haitham I’ve never heard him stumble on his words or look worse than now. You might not accept that because yeah you’re right it is his fault. Everything he’s said and done to you isn’t excusable by a long shot but if he really truly meant it, he wouldn't be beating himself over it this bad.” Cyno explains, putting his hand on top of your head and ruffling your hair making you grumble and turn away.

“I’m scared, we’ve been together for so long, married for just as long and for him to do that I- I can’t just let it go so easily you know? He’s probably held it in for so long and he finally spoke the truth, what if I’ve been a hindrance this whole-“

“Stop.” Cyno clicks his tongue, making his hand into a fist and softly bonking your head.

“You always do that. Don’t be so hard on yourself. Listen, you said it right now didn’t you hear? You’ve been together and married for so long, don't you think he would’ve told you beforehand? If anything you made him more tolerable, he seemed content and happy with you. But right now he seems lost.” Cyno removes his hand from your head and crosses his arms.

“But I did something just as bad Cyno I took mines off too.” You turn your head to face Cyno again, feeling your voice crack just remembering how Al Haitham’s face looked completely horrified when you did that.

“Go home and you’ll see. Go home to him y/n he’ll have it waiting for you I can guarantee.” Cyno smiles at you knowing look in his eyes, he knows Al haitham wants you home just as bad, he’s keeping your ring on him for when you do come back.

Your chest feels heavy, your hands are sweaty as you stare at the familiar wooden door to your shared house with Al Haitham.

It’s only been two weeks, it feels like forever since you've walked out. You didn't even bother getting your things.

You raise your hand and hold it up, contemplating as to whether or not this was a good idea. But you feel your knuckles tap against the wooden door a few times and freeze, holding still to hear any movement from within.

Nothing.

No footsteps, no moving, no talking.

You do it again only to get the same empty response.

You feel your stomach drop.

Is he ignoring me? Did I really mess it up? Why did I leave like that? You feel your eyes burn as you continue to state at the door, mind thinking the worst.

‘Y-Y/n?” Al Haitham whispers from behind you.

He blinks a few times, making sure he's not hallucinating. There's been a few incidents where he thought you came back home a few days ago and it wasn't you, he didn't want to get his hopes up.

You blink at the door and hold your breath, slowly turning your head to look back at a distraught looking Al Haitham.

You open your mouth to say sorry, to apologize for leaving him when you should have just talked things out but nothing comes out, instead a small whimper escapes as your vision gets more blurry. His eyes, the look in his eyes made your throat swell. When you first met him it was so hard to read him, to tell his emotions but the look in his eyes right now says everything.

This tears Al Haitham from the inside out, his long legs walk up the small step to your house and he opens his arms as he nears you immediately wrapping them around you and pulling you in close, his eyes blown wide.

“It's you- you're here I didnt think you were- I thought you weren't coming back.” He exhales a shaky breath as he brings you closer, one hand cradling your head and other pulling you up from your torso.

“I'm sorry, I'm so sorry for what I've said to you. It's inexcusable to say it's because of my work when you were just trying to help, you always do and I need that, I need you here to keep me grounded to keep me sane, you're anything but a hindrance, you help me in ways I never thought anyone could. Please stay. Don't leave me again.” he pulls back, hands moving to hold your face as he rests his forehead on yours.

“I will marry you over and over again if I have to prove myself.” one of his hands moves from your cheek, grabbing your hand in his and placing it on his chest where the necklace with the rings are.

“Haitham I'm sorry I left you alone I should've just listened.” you grab his hand that was holding your cheek, closing your eyes at the warmth you've missed so much feeling the tears you were holding slide down your face. Al Haitham only shakes his head

“Don't apologize to me. No one should have to hear that. Be treated that way, especially you.” he feels his hands shake slightly, with you in his hold. He feels like it's fake, like it's another one of the dreams he's been having since you've left him like he's going to wake up and you're still going to be gone.

“Please don't leave me, I need you home to keep me grounded. I missed you more than you can imagine.” He hugs you again, pulling your head into his chest and closing his eyes.

Throughout all the time you've been with him you've never seen him so on edge, look so scared. Let alone be this affectionate, you can feel it in the way he holds you , the way he speaks, he truly feels bad for what he said and done. Though you still feel torn, hurt from his actions you know you can't leave him again as you've missed him just as much.

As he holds you close, breathes in your comforting scent that he's come to love so much he vows to not take your caring for granted, that he needs you here more than anything. That he isn't himself without you.

zhongli⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚

Zhongli left, he’s gone.

You’re more than sure he’s moved on, found someone better who manages to actually care for their own well being and who doesn’t stress him out too much the way you did.

It’s what he deserves, anyways all you were doing was weighing him down, putting him under constant stress and worry to the point he couldn’t take it anymore.

It’s you, you’re the one who pushed him away the only good thing you had going on is now never coming back

Though he's been gone, Zhongli kept his word, he’s kept an eye on you since the day he left you.

A whole year had flown by agonizingly slow. It was driving him crazy as more time passed he grew worried you didn’t want him back.

During the duration of the year he’s noticed how you care more about your well being more. You took a break from adventuring and weren't as reckless. You started to work at your fathers local bakery to get back on your feet as you recovering from your injuries, Zhongli was relieved.

Though you seemed fine on the outside you only grew to despise yourself more than you ever had before since he’s left. You knew you didn’t deserve him and having him leave just proved your hurt heart more to that fact.

Zhongli kept his word, still watching over you from far away places, making sure to keep out of your line of view but more than anything he wanted to go back to you, wanted to go back home with you where you both belong.

The year with him gone was a process, one that took your mind into a very dark place.

You were hurt for so long, then you grew angry only for it all to ball up into self hatred.

During your time away from him you’ve reflected, taken care of yourself physically but mentally you were drained, it was constant nagging going on. Zhongli would be the one to quell those thoughts but you only had yourself, it was getting harder as days went on.

“I can’t stand seeing you beaten and bruised yet you are all the time.”

“You’re too much for me to handle.” Zhongli sighs, finally having enough, leaving his wedding band behind and walking out the door, never turning back once.

You shoot up from bed, looking around the room as you try to regulate your breathing, seeing the sun peeking in through your curtains.

Your hand reaches over to the ever so cold side of your bed and you're thrown back to reality. You mind immediately fogging with thoughts you don't want to hear.

You were in a constant brain fog, always lost in your own thoughts.

To the point it was was starting to become a problem, you weren't aware of lots of things most of the time. Not paying attention to certain things that could easily turn dangerous.

You got ready for work as usual, made your way down to the bakery, your mind racing a thousand thoughts per second.

“Hey y/n right?” A regular that you see buying bread at your fathers bakery stops you just blocks away from the bakery.

You turn around and he walks closer to you, greeting you with a smile.

“Good Morning.” you force your lips to turn upwards.

“Your father told me to tell you to pick up some things from my house for ingredients before you go in, it's just down the street.” he points down the road to a small house by the mountain.

“Alright, I'll go grab it right now. Is it a lot of supplies?” you ask, walking down the path thinking nothing of the situation.

“Not much but I think you’ll need an extra hand if anything.” The says, following a few feet behind you, looking around the surrounding area.

Zhongli was on his usual morning stroll, passing by your fathers bakery to make sure you get to work safe when he sees a random man stop you.

He stops walking when he sees you walk the complete opposite way from the bakery, following the man down the road. He feels a familiar feeling rising in his chest once again, your putting yourself in situations you don't see are clear signs of danger.

“Yeah, I'll help you bring them back up, it's just a few bags of flour and sugar right?” you ask, the man only hums in response, walking slowly behind you. You don't think about it, instead you continue your regular pace, already dreading the day ahead of you. you know you won't be able to concentrate much already feeling drained from getting up from bed alone.

Though it was morning, the end of the street was oddly quiet for this busy part of town.

Every stall around here is usually set up by now.

You near the small house and walk up the porch, turning and waiting for the guy behind you to open it though you notice his whole demeanor change. He was much closer now looking around him before looking back at you, reaching in his pocket to grab his keys.

He walks past you and unlocks the door holding it open, mentioning for you to walk in first, so you do, hearing the door behind you close and the sound of clicking, like he was locking it behind him.

“Why're you-”

“I brought them, our deal is done.” the man clears his throat, looking directly behind you.

You freeze, looking at the man with wide eyes when you realize what he said. Feeling the hairs on the back of your neck stand as you slowly turn around seeing a group of treasure hoarders standing directly behind you.

You start to back away, reaching into your pocket and getting the small dagger you carry but feeling someone grab your arm before you can pull it out.

“No no no, don't play dirty now we just want to talk. Your father makes a good amount of money in this town, he'll surely pay a good ransom to get his precious kid back now, won't he?” a treasure hoarder laughs, squeezing your wrist making the dagger drop from your grasp.

“My father pays for my brother's medical bills. Please don't make him pay for something he can’t afford. I have money, you can take all mine and let me go. I won't say a thing.” you look at the treasure hoarder standing in the middle of the room and hear his laughter boom through the small house.

“You’re kidding me right?” his hand brings up the ax he was holding and takes a step towards you.

You don't want this, to make someone else suffer because of you. Not your own family after they are already dealing with so much.

Zhongli waited a few minutes by the house you entered and saw no sign of you coming back out, he didn't want to interfere. He has no right. He's been so scared to go back to you, he regrets leaving. He knows he shouldn't have done it that way, he should've stayed, helped you another way. He doesn't think you'd want him back after so long, he has no right to be checking on you. You've probably well moved on.

But he can't help but worry, still check on you because he still loves and cares for you, just like he said he would the day he married you. But he left you, walked out the door, left his ring but worst of all left you all alone.

He feels something off though. From the looks of it the man you were talking to wasn't someone you knew personally, he could tell from our body language, the way you distanced yourself from him. If it was a friend of yours or someone you were close you’d look more relaxed and wouldn't be so tense or distance yourself so far from them when talking.

They're taking too long. Are they ok? Zhongli thinks, eyeing the small house. Contemplating as to whether or not he should go and check.

“Listen, your father gives us the money for you and nothing else got it.” the treasure hoarder leans down to your height and you narrow your eyes at him.

“My father won't give you a penny understand? Do your worst.” You dare the man in front of you seeing his smile drop.

You stay still, seeing a small open window to the right of you from your peripherals. The dagger you dropped right next to your foot.

“You testing me kid?” the treasure hoarder steps even closer making you shrink into yourself.

You quickly duck down, sweeping your leg under the mas feet and grabbing the dagger next to you hearing a thud, you don't even turn around as you hear multiple footsteps closing in as you run to the window, your arms and torso getting out before you feel a pair of hands grab your leg.

You feel your body get pulled back in instantly, your body hitting the ground with a loud thud.

“Donp tugh mi (don’t touch me)!” you try to scream but a hand muffles you before you do.

The loud ruckus alerts Zhongli and he doesn't even take a second to think. He's outside the door in an instant before his brain can register what he's doing.

A soft knock at the door stops everyone making the guy on top of you press his hand harder against your mouth.

“Don't think about it.” he looks down at you, voice dripping with malice.

Another knock at the door and the man on top of you signal for his subordinates to stay quiet.

Zhongli was giving them a chance to prove themselves but the second time he knocked and no one answered he had enough.

It grew completely silent, the sound of footsteps walking away was heard before the door and its hinges flew into the house.

A familiar silhouette stood in the doorway and you couldn't blink, you had to be hallucinating now.

Why is Zhongli here? How did he know I was here? Your mind halts seeing his eyes glow gold.

The man on top of you was thrown off in a second as a flash of gold passed by you, the other men being knocked to the ground seconds after as everything slowed down your eyes following the gold flash going across the room.

Everything goes quiet once again. The treasure hoarders in there were now all on the floor knocked unconscious as Zhongli stood in the middle of the room, chest heaving up and down as he glares at the foolish mortals who dared to try and hurt you.

You slowly sit up and back away, not really knowing what to say to him because why? Of all time why is he here? How'd he know you were here?

He hears the floor behind him creak and turns, golden eyes narrowing at you until he comes to realize it's you, you're ok.

When he broke the door down and saw the man holding you down his mind went into autopilot, he hasn't acted out on emotion in so long, it took over him before he could control it.

“Why're you here?” you ask, looking away from him grabbing the dagger and putting it back into your pocket.

He steps forward and you step back, the anger you've been holding back is starting to surface.

“Why did you follow him? Do you trust this man this much to have him bring you here and-”

“Dont, I don't need another lecture from you.” you almost laugh. After all this time away this is what he starts with?

“Yeah I know, take care of myself, work things out, I remember trust me, after all that's the last thing you told me before leaving remember? Right now I don't have time to hear it, I have to go to work.” You don't even bother looking back at him as you walk past to leave.

“I'm sorry.” He stares at you as you stop, seeing you shake your head and look down.

“I shouldn't have left you alone, it wasn't a good way to prove myself, I just wanted you to-”

“Zhongli please don't….” you sigh, feeling the heavy feeling settling in your chest, turning to look back at him, your eyes widening when you see one of the men he knocked out get up behind him.“GET DOWN!”

Everything moved too fast, your legs, the man behind him, but Zhongli didn't move fast enough.

Old habits die hard. You feel tired from everything, thinking too much, getting up today.

Zhongli feels the weight of your body go limp as you fall forward an arrow sticking out of your back, the man he had knocked out earlier standing directly behind, wide eyes looking up at Zhongli as he realizes who exactly it was.

“I didn't mean to get them. I wasn't going to hurt them. I swear, please don't hurt me.” the man coweres as his legs give out under him. Zhongli only stares down at you in his arms, seeing your eyes fighting to stay open.

“You're going to leave again aren't you?” your voice cracks and Zhongli feels his breath hitch, the pain in his heart worsening, you think he'd leave you alone like this?

“I'm not leaving anytime soon my love, just give me a second and i'll take you to Dr Baizhu right now, whatever you do dont turn around and keep your eyes open for me.” He picks you up, carrying you to the corner of the house facing you away from the man behind you, leaning down and giving your head a kiss before standing back up.

It all feels like a dream, this can't be real, you feel far too sleepy for it to be.

Zhongli summons his polarm and stands back up, slowly walking to the man who hurt you.

You couldn't do what he wanted again, you tried but your eyes keep closing from sheer exhaustion, the last thing you heard before completely blacking out was screaming coming from behind you, the same flash of gold blinding you once again before you felt your own body go limp, succumbing into the darkness.

◇──◇─────◇──◇

authors note: hello lovelies!! ◝꒰´꒳`∗꒱◟ ohmygoodness I’m so sorry for how long I took to write a second part to this T~T I’ve just been pretty busy but I’ve been getting more inspo for more stories that I’m so freaking excited to share with y’all! :D but alas part two of take it back is here! I had to make zhongli’s part angsty and another open ending- IMSORRY ik I need to stop LOLOL but I do hope you all enjoy and that I wrote it angsty enough for y’all (some of y’all told me to make it more angsty LMAOO you all like getting your feelings hurt just like I do >.< please make sure you are all taking care and staying safe ^~^<3 (this isn’t edited so apologies for any errors!!)

@ilocqua @2hilarious4u @esthelily @cypressus-lunis @taetaebunni @coruscale @wearetherealarm @chiyukin @lum1nesc3nce @anxietysslave @starlightaura @duckyyyx @dreamlessnight @myimymy

[yandere-kokeshi]

We need headcanon Horangi please! It's hard to find a good author who make Horangi one.

— Yandere Kim "Horangi" Hong-jin headcanons

Warnings: yandere behavior, talks about kidnapping, heavy stalking, slight nsfw, and foreshadowing at volience.

A/N: Aw, thank you :)!!! Enjoy!!

Horangi is a heavy stalker, influenced by his massive possessive and obsessive streak. He isn’t so bad at the beginning, but once he realizes he requires you, he begins to be clingy like glue, manipulative, and too lucid into insanity. 

It’s likely you two met during the military, the KorTac team being famously known for its dangerous members, including the many and König, Nikto, and the tiger himself. Maybe you were a new recruit with a code-name being as dangerous as themselves– which intrigued Kim. 

Although, you could’ve met outside his prime area. A kind stranger, showing a simple act of kindness. And could you blame him for falling for you? You’re exactly what he needs. 

He isn’t sure what’s so lovely about you. You’re like a drug, an addiction. Just like his past gambling one. And he knows you’re an addiction. You’ve crawled underneath his skin, and no high on earth can compare. And Horangi has fucking compared them all.

He loves admiring you from afar. Just staring at you, and though he doesn’t mean to make you nervous, he can’t help himself. You’re so pretty. So oblivious to the things he’d love to do, things he’d hate to do, and things he has done for you. 

He leans against the wall, looking at you from a distance with a subtle smirk when you notice his gifts. He leaves them everywhere for you, even inside your house, on your comfy bed. The look on your face each time gives his goosebumps, a reaction so pristine at what he got you. Sure, a bit naughty. But he knows you’ll enjoy it, regardless. 

The tiger and him work together on following you — stalking their prey from a distance. Yet, he feels insane whilst doing so. He bites his cheek so hard that he makes himself bleed, fighting against the natural instinct to rip out every tongue that speaks to you. Every pair of eyes that’s ever looked into yours. The arms and fingers who have ever touched you. And in a way, Kim selfishly wishes everyone else in the world would disappear, besides the two of you. They’re all a hindrance. All of them. 

It’s no surprise that the famous tiger is rather blunt about things, it’s who he is in nature. Just how predators are, anyway. His attraction toward you is obvious, bothering not to hide it. Fleeting touches and constant flirting, claiming he’s simply being honest with you. Of course, Horangi isn’t a liar, at least not in his eyes. And truly, before he met you, he wasn’t. And strangely, he still isn’t. He speaks truth, he’s just being overly dramatic with it. 

Your situation might be bad, perhaps there’s certain people you cannot trust. Horangi makes it seem as though you can’t trust anyone, aside from him of course. And, if you already have trust issues, it’s just extra points for him; making his job much easier, the gambling leaderboard kicking in with more coins. He’s aware that he’s tricking you, deceiving you in a roundabout way. But, he, in some way, believes it too. 

It’s primal, the way he wants you. Beyond anything that has words lisped under a single breath. Relishes the day you say the word mine. Wants to carve his name into your lower hip, his initials, last name included, stuck on you forever. Wants to hear you moan at the first sharp sting of the letter K. Hear your heart struck, feel and taste the blood. 

But, of course, he wants you to do the same. Wants to roll on his back on your bed, chest naked and let you sit on his lap, feel your hands on him, craving him just as much. He wants you to bite him. Scratch him. Make him bleed. Lavish him in so much needed love that he ends up losing himself to pleasure. But, those are just mere ideas for him, having him wait for the right time. 

Besides his obvious… sexual desires, Horangi desires for your attention. Constant awareness of him, which makes him approach you, despite his obvious awkwardness of conversation. 

He starts with small talk — watching you closely. Seeing what you like to talk about. What you dislike. What you love expressing with. He watches your body language, knowing you because of the few tricks he learned from his past.

With the amount of stalking he does, he knows your schedules by heart– randomly appearing at your station with a bag full of your favorite food, and some sweets. He even brings a board game for fun, sharing a few rare touches with you when you thank him. 

Horangi smiles at himself under the mask, finally shivering at the sight of you touching him. Which makes him try on making you weak, at least on the knees; finally accepting him as your only boyfriend and soon-to-be husband. 

And when you do accept Kim, he’s immediately placing himself whenever you go. You and him immediately move into a house together, large enough for you two and maybe a furry animal. But that doesn’t mean he leaves you alone, quite the opposite. 

Heading off to see a friend? He’s coming! Need to head to the store for more body wash, why not let him go instead? He’s fast, and willing to pick up dinner for the two of you. Or, he’s more than happy to come with you! 

You wouldn’t want to be alone… right? If you do, his touch becomes more dominant. His nails scratch and bruise. But he only shushes you, cooing at the marks he leaves on your skin, looking at you with iridescent eyes, “M’ sorry, you know I hate letting you go.”

With affection he shows it clear like glass through cooking, touches, and acts of service. He does everything you want him to do, and ironically, he’s a house-husband when he’s at home; doing most house-chores and cooking. 

He shares the same dishes his eomma used to make for him as a kid. He’s excellent at diving vegetables, and loves cutlery platters. Although, Kim has a fear of you burning yourself, so when he’s not cooking, he helps by watching. He usually adds suggestions, or stirs the pot when asked.

His touches are overwhelming. He’s constantly touching you in some way, nudging your hand and legs, grunting for a kiss or your hand within his. A hand on your waist. His lips chasing yours, growling when you don’t give in fast enough, when you don’t melt like he does. His grip iron clad when you hold hands.

If you haven’t noticed, it’s obvious Kim can’t function properly when he’s gone too long without you. He swings too hard during training. Looks into people’s eyes with nothing but annoyance; his brown eyes tearing into their souls. He rips his bandages, snaps his red and blue pens by holding them too tight.

As long as you promise to be his, Kim will provide you with whatever you want. Your hands are to open at whatever you see; the price being negotiable up to a grand or two. But of course, he comes with his own things– surprising you by random gifts that he thought of you at the moment, a gentle smile plastered on his face when he sees you light up at it. 

Possessive and lightly jealous like no other. He lets others know you belong to him with much PDA. He sucks bruises into every inch of you that anyone else can see. Bites that are deep into your neck and any part of your body. Having you sit in his lap whenever you’re in public, snuggling his face into your neck as you two talk. 

Despite his unhealthy need for control, following and touching you everywhere, you’re still allowed to have friends. He doesn’t isolate you, completely. However, if he needs to, he will. Kidnapping isn’t on his radar, at first. If you ever try to leave him, in either way, he has you branded in ropes within the next few hours. It was rather an impulsive act, but Horangi needs to have you by himself, no?

—

Masterlist || Reblogs, comments, and likes are very much appreciated!! Stay well!!

© yandere-kokeshi 2024 — Do not copy, modify, edit, repost, or use my works for ASMR readings, tiktoks, or other content.

[faebaex]

Tangled in Wonderland - Fighting Fire with Fire

author note: aaaaa this is so late! Sorry, sorry – graduation happened and then I was very busy with misc things x-x but this instalment is a little longer to make up for it! Hope you enjoy, Scarabia is up next!

characters: Azul Ashengrotto x GN!Reader

You had only given yourself two objectives when you had realised that you had been transported to the world of Twisted Wonderland.

One: figure out a way to get back to your own world, preferably in one piece.

Two: keep a low profile and avoid the game’s named characters as much as possible.

Unfortunately, none of those objectives had been going well.

Despite your best attempts, you had already run into the game’s first two housewardens. Chapter one of the game had pretty much run on schedule, culminating in Riddle’s eventual overblot. You ran into Leona by fluke, and whilst the encounter was not as terrible as you thought it would be, you still found it less than ideal for your plan to keep a low profile, especially now that Leona would give you the odd nod here and there if you passed each other in the hallway. That caused you to get a few more stares than usual. There was also another curious issue that had caught your attention.

Even with you laying low and keeping yourself out of the main story as much as possible, Leona’s overblot still happened. You had noticed that Crowley had not asked/threatened you into investigating the odd accidents that had been going on around campus in the run up to the spelldrive tournament, which you assumed was because he was still avoiding you so you didn’t hound him about getting home. So even though it wasn’t you who helped uncover the truth about the incidents, the truth still came out and you, through fates untimely intervention, ended up on the Savanaclaw spelldrive field to witness his overblot.

Regarding your attempts to figure out a way home, research had been slow. Whilst Riddle was a great help, he could also be a hindrance. With midterms on the horizon, Riddle had been visiting not to assist you with your research, but to make sure you had been studying properly for the upcoming exams. Because he considered you an honorary member of Heartslabyul, Riddle deemed it his role to make sure you succeeded in your academic endeavours, even going through the effort of making you a study schedule and notes in order for you to maximise your study time efficiently. Although you appreciated the gesture, getting more sidetracked was not what you needed right now. But you figured there were worst things that could happen.

But as usual, fate decided to show you that there were definitely worse things.

You had just gotten to the library, tote bag full of study materials that Riddle had generously lent to you swinging behind you as you weaved through the bookshelves and desks, aiming for your usual table at the back. You figured you could continue your own research and if Riddle showed up, you could just swap the books over and he would be none the wiser.

Of course, you had no idea that a whole bigger problem than Riddle Rosehearts was awaiting you. Because when you rounded the corner that enclosed your library table, the devil himself was waiting for you.

Or in this case, Azul Ashengrotto.

“Ah! There you are prefect!” Azul exclaimed, slamming one of your research books shut which he had clearly been nosing through, “I have been waiting for you. I trust your classes went well today?” He smiled at you, that usual picture perfect, business smile affixed to his face. All you could do was stare blankly at him, willing every muscle in your face not to react so that you didn’t give him an opening.

Why were you running into Azul?! Chapter three started after midterms! You still had some time before then, brain already working overtime in an attempt to figure out what was the best way to lay low against a whole dorm that excelled in subterfuge and deceit. You were shaken from your thoughts by the sounds of chair legs scrapping against the floor, as Azul got to his feet.

“Say, prefect… Midterms are coming up and it seems to me that you have all the wrong content here,” Azul started as he gestured to the table with all your research materials gathered, “why don’t we take a walk and we can discuss exactly what I can do to help you…”

Oh no. No, no, no.

Without a word, you span on your heel and started to march out of the library, not looking back or faltering in your step. It seemed like you’d actually be studying for your midterms back at Ramshackle today. Riddle would be thrilled.

“My, prefect where are you going?” Azul called after you, and you didn’t have to imagine the predatory smile on his face now that your back was turned, “I only want to talk!”

The library door slammed behind you and you hightailed it back to Ramshackle dorm.

After classes ended the next day, you took the risky decision to return to the library. But this time, you had a plan. Having called in a small favour from the library ghosts that you have become friendly with, you began your walk over to your usual table. Unfortunately, but as expected, Azul was waiting for you, his perfect business smile fixed on his face.

“Prefect, so good to see you.” Azul said, voice smooth as he leaned against one of the chairs. You had to wonder how long he had been standing there, posed like that, waiting for you to turn the corner. You ignored him as you slipped your tote bag of your shoulder and took your usual seat, pretending like he was not there. There was a beat of silence as you found your bookmark and continued reading your book in the place you had left off on, but of course the silent treatment wouldn’t work on someone as adaptable as Azul.

“Ahem, prefect, if you would…”

“Three.” You said loudly, not looking up as you turned over the page of your book. In your peripheral vision, you watched as Azul freeze.

“… Prefect?” Azul enquired, smile frozen on his face.

“Two.” You continued, eyes glued to the book in front of you. The other books rattled on the table, one even flipping open, the pages flapping dramatically before slamming back shut. Azul lifted a hand to adjust his glasses in his usual move to mask the surprise and unease that threatened to destroy his perfect smile. “Why are you—”

“One.” Finally, you looked up, looking directly into his eyes. You were satisfied to see he looked appropriately unnerved, but the best was still to come.

“BOO!!!”

Azul jumped so hard that his glasses went askew, and you couldn’t help the amused smirk that spread across your face as he flapped to regain his composure. The library ghost that had popped out and spooked Azul cackled mischievously and flew around the table a few times before disappearing, giving you the chance to mask your face back into an indifferent expression when Azul turned his attention back to you, still looking a bit shocked. You only offered a small shrug in consolation.

“Those library ghosts can sure be cheeky sometimes.” You said nonchalantly, flitting your eyes back down to your book without another word. Silence fell again, and you swore you heard a small, disgruntled huff before Azul took his leave.

Today, victory was yours.

You had one full day of peace from Azul before he was back again like nothing had happened. You shouldn’t have been surprised, Azul had a tenacity that sometimes made you wonder why the Dark Mirror had not placed him in Pomefiore. And for whatever reason, he had decided that you were very interesting.

He began popping up everywhere. You kept seeing him in the corridors, flashing you a smile that could be fool anyone as being kind. He’d somehow appear behind you in the lunch queue, even if he wasn’t there a minute before. You even decided to avoid the library for a few days, punishing yourself to study for midterms in the creaky Ramshackle dorm, and even then you saw him on your walk back, conveniently placed near the hall of mirrors or the botanical gardens, giving you a friendly wave when you passed. Well, for what passed as friendly with Azul. It was becoming increasingly clear to you, Azul was not going away.

You wracked your brain as to why Azul had taken such an interest in you. You know that when the main character made a deal with him in book three, he had his sights set on Ramshackle dorm so that he could open a branch café of the Mostro Lounge, and it was obvious that this was his agenda still now. But he had never come after the main character this… fiercely, so why was he pursuing you with such aggression?!

You chalked it up to another one of fate’s cruel pranks.

Determined, you continued to ignore his constant presence. With all the studying for midterms that you had been doing, you were convinced that you might actually get a decent grade this time round. Riddle expressed his pleasure at your diligent studying, having been miffed that he had not seen you at your usual spot in the library but delighted to know that you had finally knuckled down on your preparation for midterms.

But you couldn’t continue studying at Ramshackle forever. With Ramshackle came Grim, and with Grim came Ace and Deuce. And when you threw in the Ramshackle ghosts, you had an environment that definitely wasn’t suitable for studying. So inevitably, you ended up back at the library. Once again, you had one day of peace before Azul’s channels of information got back to him that you were back at the library because the very next day, Azul was waiting for you.

“Ah, prefect!” Azul said cheerfully, going so far as to pull out your chair for you, “I’m glad to run into you again. I must have missed you the last few times I have come to the library, I haven’t seen you here!” Azul’s business smile was out in full force today, and your lips pursed as you took your seat, ignoring Azul as he tried to help your push your chair in, not that it phased him at all. Azul was in top form today.

“Now, I’ve have something that I’d like to discuss with you…” Azul began as he took a seat opposite you, folding his hands in front of him neatly. You ignored him as you reached into your tote bag and opened one of your study books, deciding to brush up on some alchemy terms.

“It has been brought to my attention that…” Azul cleared his throat delicately, and leans forward slightly, lowering his voice, “now, I know that your situation is a little… delicate, but please be assured, I can help.” You continued to ignore him, trying your best to memorise the endless amounts of alchemy components that you had apparently learned this semester. A hand gently placed itself on top of your textbook, and you looked up to see Azul with his perfected faux expression of mixed pity and sympathy, which you were sure had won him over many clients in the past. For you, it just made your stomach turn.

“I know you’re failing. Multiple subjects, in fact.” Azul said quietly, and your eyes narrowed at him. “And who told you that?” You asked bluntly, and Azul pulled his hand back, holding up in the air in a gesture seeking peace, “now, now… You know I have to abide by client confidentiality… But you know how friends talk…” Azul purred, a predatory glint in his eyes as he smiled at you.

Great, so somebody had talked. You wondered who it could be, Ace? Deuce? Grim? Not that it mattered. Now Azul was determined to get his claws sunk into you, and you needed to deter him. Fast.

“While I appreciate your concern, I’m doing just fine. You could say that I’ve got friends in high places where are looking out for me. One even gave me a study schedule. You may know him, he’s at the top of the second-year rankings, after all.” You retorted with a sickly-sweet smile, feeling glad to have gotten that dig in, knowing Riddle and Azul’s competitive history. Azul’s smile never faltered, though his eyes did harden slightly.

“Ah, but you have so many subjects to learn in such a short amount of time. Midterms are next week.” Azul pointed out, a hand moving to rest on his chest with a flourish, “with a copy of my notes for each subject, you are guaranteed to improve your grades, enough that the professors will not give you a hard time over it. I know I could never understand, but it must be so difficult being the school’s only magicless student. You poor, unfortunate soul. I would rest so much easier at night knowing that you weren’t struggling unnecessarily.”

Your eye twitched at that, the urge to throw one of the heavy, leather-bound tomes at your side directly at Azul’s head growing thick and fast. “I said I wasn’t interested.” You responded firmly through gritted teeth. You had hoped the sly mention of Riddle would get Azul off your back, but clearly you were being naïve. Your eyes fell back down to your textbook as silence fell between you again, hoping through some fluke that ignoring Azul would make him leave you alone, but of course it wouldn’t.

“Well, if you don’t want to make a deal based on a grades perspective…” Azul mused allowed, his smile turning a tad more sinister, “how about this? Think of all the time you’ll have free to spend working on your interesting little side project if you don’t have to worry about your grades?” Azul’s fingers stroked along the spine of one of your many research books and you froze.

Now, you knew that one of your main goals was to keep a low profile in Twisted Wonderland until you figured out a way home. And if you deluded yourself hard enough, you could believe that to some extent, you had. But whilst you could tolerate Azul’s stalking, his faux friendly behaviour in the corridors and in the lunch line, and his many attempts to solicit you in the library and rope you into a predatory deal that you had no hopes of ever completing, there was one thing that you would never let slide.

And that was someone attempting to foil your plans to get back home.

Your eyes hardened as you gazed over at Azul. You needed to get rid of him, to deter him so strongly that he’d be hesitant to ever approach you again so lightly. And you knew just the way to do it.

You didn’t want to do it to him, but in your defence, he had started it. And in the types of games that he liked to play, you had to fight fire with fire.

Your pursed lips melted into a smile as you leaned forward. “Why don’t you make a deal with me instead, Azul?” You offered, crooking your finger in a motion to call him closer to you. Whilst he seemed hesitant, he was clearly intrigued by your suggestion and leaned closed to you as you looked him dead in the eye, speaking in a hush tone.

“You’re going to leave me alone. Because if you don’t, I’m going to tell every single person I walk past that they should take some time to visit the Atlantica Memorial Museum in the Coral Sea. I’ll tell them ‘hey! I know there is a really cool statue that catches your eye as soon as you enter, but you should really take a moment to check out the photographs right by the door. There are some very cute pictures there, especially one with the prince of the Coral Sea!’ You never know what you might find, right Azul?” You watched the colour drain from Azul’s face with every word you spoke, barely able to mask his horror at what you were telling him.

“H-how… Who…” He was flustered now, recoiling away from you like you had slapped him before leaning back closer to hiss at you, “how do you know about that?!” Azul was incredulous, so shocked at the dirt you had on him that he couldn’t even begin to deny it. He had to— no, he needed to know how you knew, like his very life depended on it.

“You’d be surprised what I know about you, Azul.” You responded cooly, leaning back in your chair and levelling him with a severe stare. “Things you’ve worked so hard to keep secret. I’m happy to keep them secret for you too, but you see, the thing is…” Your eyes narrowed at him now, and if he could have gotten paler, he would have, “when I get irritated, say by being constantly bothered by someone who can’t take ‘no’ for an answer…” You started to raise your voice with every word, “I get louder, and louder and…”

“Okay, okay!” Azul recoiled from you with an audible thump against his chair. He looked frazzled; pale faced with sweat beading on his forehead, “l-let’s not be rash, prefect. I see now that…” Azul cleared his throat, desperate to claw back some of his composure as he quickly stood from his chair, not even bothering to tuck it back in, “I see now that I’ve disturbed you during an incredibly important time. I apologise. I’ll take my leave, and I hope you can use your… Discretion not to act impulsively on this… Sensitive matter?”

You flashed Azul a serene smile that was not at all genuine, and he knew it. “I’ll try my best. There’s only so much I’m capable of. You know, being a magicless student and all.” You uttered with sweetness, and you thought you heard a low whine from Azul before he quickly made his escape, hurrying out the library with his dignity in tatters.

You smiled to yourself as you slowly pushed your study textbook aside. You knew it was a very risky move to threaten Azul like that, and there was a good chance that you might find yourself tied up and thrown in the sea by the end of the semester for so boldly confronting him. This wasn’t the last you would see of him, Azul too calculating to let you, a loose end that he never dreamed of encountering, go free. But for now, you could relish in the small, peaceful reprieve you had given yourself as you pulled one of your research books in front of you, finally continuing where you had left off.

[kaedekolya]

clarence and his counterparts: man or monster?

So we were talking about Clarence’s new android SSR (Faint Night Light) in the LBC discord server, and it got me thinking about the monster allusions that seem to be a common thread across Clarence’s main stories. Then we discussed the diary entries from his White Day event, and it occurred to me that this monster imagery also ties into his modern-day counterpart – and with that, this post was born.

In other words: is Clarence a man, a monster, or somewhere in between?

[ SPOILERS: Clarence’s main stories and Chrono Theatre diaries. This meta post is structured as story-specific sections, namely Godheim, Eden, and the modern world, so you can skip over the world(s) you haven't read yet. No Awakening spoilers, don't worry! ]

- ☽ -

Godheim: Archmage Clarence

First, let’s talk about Godheim Clarence. As the Archmage, he bears a heavy responsibility upon his shoulders – to oversee the Magi Tower, to fight the Glacial Butterflies, and, ultimately, to protect the country and its people.

In order to fulfil this duty that he has chosen to undertake, Clarence seals his heart and shuts others out. He denies his emotions, and resents himself for having these emotions, to the point that he disparages MC for “[acting] impetuously” and belittles her capabilities when she shows concern for Amelia’s wellbeing. Archmage Clarence’s impassivity is his shield against the emotions he views as a hindrance.

Yet he was not always this way. Clarence is a casualty of cruel circumstances, a tender soul torn apart by trauma. When MC is confronted with the truth of the mages’ magic, having witnessed a mage die before her very eyes, she notes that “[there] is no pain or compassion on Clarence’s face,” because “[this] is a sight he has seen all too many times before.” Decades of watching his fellow mages succumb to the Glacial Butterflies that nest inside them, and decades of having to end the lives of mutating mages under his purview, have conditioned Clarence into numbing his heart to such pain. How else could he have stayed sane, after a century of bearing witness to suffering wrought by his own hands?

Archmage Clarence’s disposition is initially described by MC as an “[icy] presence,” but this is the facade that he projects as a defence mechanism, not his genuine self. Clarence is so accustomed to the chill of the Glacial Butterflies within him that he has taken on the frost as a personality trait, believing that his frigidity defines him. He does not view himself as a human capable of warmth; instead, he thinks of himself as a mutant, as an icy monster.

Even so, Clarence cannot deny his innate inclination towards kindness. When he notices that Amelia isn’t feeling well, he tells her to sit in the carriage. When Amelia’s temperature drops, he casts a spell to warm the shivering child up, even as he grumbles that he’s wasting his time and magic. When Amelia’s death is imminent, he tries to send her off in the gentlest way possible, then grants her final wish by conjuring a connection to the water mirror. Clarence may insist that he does not care, but his actions reflect his compassion.

It is this very kindness that steers him towards a path of selfless sacrifice, for the sake of his country and its people. The life of a mage may have been forced upon him, by the man that gave a gravely injured child no other option but the potion that would transform him, yet Clarence learns to harness his power for good. He spends his youth eliminating Glacial Butterflies and protecting the village of the snow plains, and despite the harsh conditions of the path he now treads, he does not hold a grudge against the family that sold him off and thrived in the resulting profit. Instead, he returns to check on them from afar, and when an onslaught of Glacial Butterflies attack, he protects them with every last bit of energy within him.

Still, his family’s betrayal left an indelible mark on his psyche. Back when he’d been given the potion, he’d resolved to succumb to his injuries rather than drink it. Despite his instinctive desire to live, MC notes that his “will to live [had been] virtually non-existent,” because there is “[no] despair greater than being betrayed by your own family.” The young Clarence had not seen a reason to live, when his family had forsaken him. It is only when MC saves him, urging him to live on, that he resolves to survive and repay this debt. Each time MC encounters him in her voyage through time, he is on the verge of death, and each time, his dwindling will to live stems from his despair over those he could not save. What ultimately keeps him alive is the vow he swore to his saviour.

This characterisation is one that carries through his immortal lifespan. Clarence does not live for himself; he lives for others. Whether that means risking his life to defend a village, or sacrificing himself in a ritual to save the country’s inhabitants, the underlying premise is the same – Clarence lives for the person who saved him, and for the promise he made to them. He allows others to form negative opinions of him based on the assumptions they’ve made, in order to keep the secret of the ritual and the Glacial Butterflies from them, because their scorn towards him matters less than their safety. He closes himself off from others, never permitting them to reach out to him, because he cannot allow companionship and compassion to distract him from his purpose. He “[cannot] afford to be sentimental,” because he cannot have anyone or anything clouding his judgement. Better to be the enemy of the state that saves it, than the friend of the state that cannot do anything as it crumbles. 

It is ironic, then, that Clarence’s devotion to his promise leads him from striving to live and fulfil it, to voluntarily dying for that same promise. His life, his existence itself, is secondary to the promise he has made. He will live to protect the world for his saviour, but if the only way to protect it is to die, then die he shall. Perhaps he views it as a penance of sorts, an atonement for the sins he’s committed. Perhaps he believes the new world would be better off without a monster like him.

For all his calculative callousness and stoic solitude, Clarence is deeply self-aware. Not only is he conscious of the suffering he inflicts and the ramifications of his actions, but he also ruminates upon his sins until they turn to guilt in his gut and self-loathing in the deepest recesses of his soul. He does not turn a blind eye to the pain he witnesses; instead, he looks it straight in the eye, internalises it, and forces himself to feel nothing at all.

Clarence may appear to have no qualms about exploiting people and reducing them to cogs in a plan greater than its constituent parts, but his interactions with Amelia prove otherwise. Right before he sends her off on what is meant to be a suicide mission, his carefully-crafted defenses slip, and he asks whether she hates him. Clarence believes that he has failed to live up to the Archmage’s title, that he has fallen short of being a “guiding force for all the mages” and a “protector.” He condemns himself for his callous strategies and merciless manipulation, since he has been treating people like chess pieces and “using them as [he sees] fit.” He disparages himself for “[standing] by on the sidelines, safe and sound.” He believes others hate him because he’s given them all the reasons to, because he deserves to be hated, because he, too, hates himself. All this while, he fails to recognise that he has taken on the greatest sacrifice of all – the burden of leadership, of decision-making, of being responsible for all the blood on his hands.

This downplaying of his own suffering, alongside his disregard of his own well-being, is what drives Clarence to self-sacrifice time and time again. When a theory about the Glacial Butterflies begins to take shape in his mind, he does not test it out on one of his mages, because he does not view them as expendable despite what he claims. Instead, he uses himself for his experiment, slicing his chest open and bearing the agonising pain in order to ascertain the truth of the magic within him.

On the verge of being overcome by the Glacial Butterflies, despite having prepared for this eventuality by shackling his limbs, he makes one last selfless request. “My Lord, you must kill me before I turn,” he entreats, willing to relinquish his own life for the safety of others. Even when Philip protects him from the Glacial Butterflies, refusing to kill him, Clarence believes that there is no place for him in the future that his Lord envisions.

Decades later, he still echoes this same sentiment. “There is no future without sacrifice,” he tells Lars, and he does not see himself as part of that future, does not see himself as deserving of that future. Archmage Clarence thinks of himself as a monster, not a man, and a monster is better off dead than alive.

It is a revelation, to him, that Amelia does not hate him. MC does not hate him. Lars, Alkaid, the mages that carry on the legacy of the Magi Tower, none of them hate him. They do not view him as a monster; they view him as a martyr, a protector, a saviour. Someone who did his best, and gave his all. Archmage Clarence leaves behind a legacy through his sacrifice, spurred by the human heart he still harbours deep within.

- ☽ -

Eden: Falcon Clarence

Next, we have the Falcon Clarence of Eden. The lone ranger of the desert, the mercenary that eliminates Sandswimmers with impeccable precision and works with no one else.

“A bait that only knows how to cry is a burden,” his mentor tells him, and Clarence internalises that into his cognitive framework and guiding compass. It is “the first lesson Liore taught [him];” that he must prove his worth in order to live. His scent lures the Sandswimmers to him, and so he must make himself useful by seeking out danger.

Valued only for his utility as bait, Clarence learns that his worth is determined by his fighting skills. With no other way to survive, he becomes a NEOS by fusing Sandswimmer gems into his body. Clarence pays the price of this acquired power through the gradual erosion of his memories, but that is far from the only thing he has lost. His decision to accept the integration of these foreign, beastly objects into his body has changed him irrevocably. He thinks of himself not as a human, but as a mutant being only one step away from becoming a monstrous Lost. Still, he endeavours to “remember [his] humanity,” because he refuses to become a “mere weapon [that knows] nothing but destruction.” Falcon Clarence understands that he is, by definition, a monster, but he refuses to relinquish the last shreds of his humanity.

In his first encounter with MC, he is rational and pragmatic as always, scrutinising her motives and seeing no reason to work together. Years of solitude, with no one else to depend on, have honed Clarence’s reflexes into an “instinct for self-defence.” Yet his reaction to MC’s request reveals that his solitude has been shaped by circumstance, not entirely by choice. When MC explains her reason for seeking out Eden, even though it does not sound particularly convincing, Clarence accepts it as sufficient and agrees to lead the way. Despite the potential risk of allowing a stranger close, he offers MC a ride on his motorcycle. Subsequently, he continues to help her out, defending the children’s shelter and giving her the gems he’d collected, even as he refuses to follow her any further.

Falcon Clarence claims that he works alone, but everything he does is for the sake of protecting others. He fights in the desert to protect the shelters from Sandswimmers, and he fights in Eden to protect Lin and the other NEOS from the Lost. He brings MC to the NEOS Association, so that she can rest for a night and learn essential skills from Lin. He knows that the night is dangerous, so despite his own preference for working alone, he ensures that MC has a community of protection around her.

Even as he dismisses everything and everyone else as burdens, his actions speak otherwise. Despite having met MC for only a single day, he offers his assistance to her time and time again, from rides on his motorcycle to filling water bottles with her. He could easily leave her to fend for herself, but he chooses not to leave her behind even when that would be the easier way out.

Perhaps the reason Clarence refuses to work with other people is that he’s afraid. Afraid of dragging them down, afraid of becoming their burden. He fears that history will repeat itself. He cannot bear to lose someone he cares for again, so he refrains from caring about anyone at all. Each time Clarence chastises others for being a hindrance, he is reproaching his past self for his inadequacy. Each time he risks his life to protect others, he is atoning for his failure to save his mentor.

MC says that she understands how Clarence feels, because “acting alone means nobody will be hurt because of [him].” In a way, acting alone also protects himself from being hurt. It is a defence mechanism born from his past, when he had to “learn to accept [his] losses” from a young age. He couldn’t afford to grieve Liore for long, not with the constant threat of the Sandswimmers, and so he could do nothing else but “live on with what memories [he] had left.” He’d forced himself to harden his heart to his emotions, but he could not suppress them entirely.

Clarence blames his moment of weakness, of emotional folly, for causing Liore’s death. It was her humanity, even in her final moments as a Lost, that held her back from killing him and caused her to die. He regrets his choice to this day, and perhaps it is this survivor’s guilt that pushes him to fight harder until he reaches the brink.

It is this same guilt, alongside his resolve to not lose anyone else he cares for, that drives him towards self-sacrifice. When he realises that MC needs a soul stone – his soul stone – to open the door within Central Control, he unflinchingly raises his gun to his head, as if it were the natural and logical decision to make. He is ready to offer his life without a moment’s hesitation, because that is the utility he can offer in this moment, in order to keep MC safe and help her achieve her goal. She has given him a reason to fight, and he will die trying to fulfil it.

Ultimately, it is his encounter with MC – and the companionship which blooms from it – that saves him. Without demanding anything in return, she cries for his pain, fights by his side, and shoulders his burdens with him. Clarence doubts his humanity, even as he holds fast to it, since he is all too cognisant of the monstrous traits within. In turn, MC’s unwavering trust reaffirms the humanity within him, reminding him that he is worthy of living.

Falcon Clarence may not be fully human on a biological level, and he may still succumb to the effects of the monsters within him from time to time, but he has managed to preserve his heart and his humanity. His tale is one of healing, of opening up, and of learning to value himself for who he is and not what he can do.

- ☽ -

Modern World: Clarence

Finally, let’s circle back to modern-day Clarence. At first glance, he’s the calm, collected, and capable Student Council president, who always seems to have affairs in order and circumstances under control.

Then, in his Chrono Theatre diary entries, we learn that he had a psychiatrist observing him from a young age, due to his gifted aptitude and exceptional intelligence beyond that of his peers. This revelation sparked a discussion in the LBC discord server, which spurred this message of mine that then became the basis for this meta post:

Clarence is well-versed in decorum, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it comes naturally to him. It’s likely that he learned social etiquette by picking it up from observing how other people behave, so he knows the appropriate responses to give and the socially-acceptable ways to carry himself. However, because this social understanding is not an innate trait but a learned one, there are often times when he doesn’t recognise the need for social niceties, and instead his instinctual response – founded on his internal logic – comes through.

One example of this can be found as early as his second interaction with MC, after she paints an artwork of him:

The polite thing to do would be to express interest in or appreciation of the finished product, regardless of one’s actual feelings towards it. However, Clarence “doesn’t show the slightest interest” in MC’s painting. Does this mean that he doesn’t care for it, and doesn’t see the need to put on a pretence? Quite the contrary. Instead, it’s because he thinks he doesn’t have anything useful to offer in response, and thus he stays silent.

Here, we see a disconnect between how Clarence understands the world, and how other people tend to view it. While most people would appreciate receiving praise or validation, Clarence doesn’t particularly see the need to receive either, and thus doesn’t immediately think of giving them to others. Rather, he takes a more pragmatic approach, focusing on utility; a piece of work deserves feedback for the effort poured into it. However, as a law major, he does not have sufficient knowledge or expertise regarding art. As such, he believes that his feedback would not be useful, and thus it is better not to say anything at all.

This ties into how Clarence views himself as his roles, and the functions he can serve. He understands that he has worth, but he evaluates this worth through his services as the Student Council president, or his contributions as a law intern. When he assists others, he doesn’t think of it as going out of his way to help them; instead, he views it as part of his rightful duty.

As a result, Clarence doesn’t view himself as simply “Clarence.” Rather, he thinks of himself as Clarence, the Student Council president; Clarence, an upperclassman; Clarence, a friend. If he can fulfil someone’s needs through a role that he holds, he will do it, even at the expense of himself.

We see this most prominently in Clarence’s “Break Time” R card story:

When the senior who’s supposed to interpret for an academic speaker falls ill and fails to attend, Clarence steps up to fill their shoes last-minute. William notes that Clarence can be counted on to show up whenever and wherever he’s needed, and MC agrees that he’s “the only one who’s up to the task.”

However, what most people don’t recognise are the sheer lengths Clarence will go to in order to fulfil his duties. On top of his regular responsibilities, filling in for the interpreter caused Clarence to “[burn] the midnight oil” preparing for the speech, and taking care of the sick speaker meant that Clarence could not sleep for two days. He doesn’t recognise that he’s constantly going above and beyond, because to him it’s a given, but he is in fact pushing himself past his limits, and past the line that most people would draw.

It’s interesting to examine MC’s thoughts here, because she interprets Clarence’s willingness to take a nap as a rational understanding that he needs to rest in order to keep functioning. However, this only happens after MC coaxes him into taking a break. If she hadn’t intervened, Clarence would have continued pushing himself until he completed his task – he was already at “the brink of collapse,” and he “only agreed to sleep after [MC] practically begged him to.” Clarence prioritises his responsibilities to the point that he does not recognise his own needs, and thus neglects to take care of himself.

Although modern Clarence doesn’t think of himself as different, or as anything less than a person, it’s evident that he views himself as the roles he fulfils rather than simply as who he is. In turn, this mindset is reflected in his behaviour, which then shapes other people’s perceptions of him. This is how Clarence becomes characterised as the aloof and intimidating Student Council president in the students’ eyes, even though he cares so deeply and helps out so much; most people are unable to look deeper and see Clarence as the person that he is, because he perceives and presents himself through the lens of his roles.

As such, other people often view Clarence as different from themselves – as if he’s operating on a different wavelength, or existing on a separate plane entirely. Modern Clarence’s genius sets him apart from his peers, but more than that, his perspective of himself winds up alienating himself from other people. Clarence views himself as like others, but others view him as unlike them. He blends in well enough, but he doesn’t quite fit in; he has a place in society, but he doesn’t quite belong.

- ☽ -

Clarence, across time and space

Out of all the Clarences thus far, modern Clarence is perhaps the most well-adjusted, and this reflects the importance of having a support system. Godheim Clarence and Eden Clarence were isolated from a young age and survived alone throughout most of their lives, whereas modern Clarence had family and friends around him. He may not have had the most conventional childhood, but he grew up with his older sister Jaclyn and his close friend Luca, and he also had his psychiatrist Ford observing and monitoring his development. Subsequently, after he enters St Shelter Academia, he gains a circle of friends he can rely on, such as William, O’Connor, and, of course, MC.

Expanding upon Clarence’s St Shelter Academia bonds, we see that Clarence has people around him who genuinely like him for who he is, and are willing to support him unconditionally. O’Connor affectionately refers to Clarence with a nickname – “Shi-kun” in the Japanese voiceover, or “Little Si Lan” in the Chinese one – and for all his devious teasing, it’s clear he looks out for his Student Council successor. As for William, he may whine about Clarence’s by-the-book discipline, but his clumsiness and complaints do not preclude him from helping out when needed. For all that Clarence often chastises William, he still relies on him to assist with Student Council matters, and he knows William is someone he can trust.

Compared to these two, MC is a relatively newer connection, but her bond with Clarence runs deep. Right off the bat, she’s able to meet him on his level and banter with him, and he lets down his guard enough to subtly tease her for trying to trick him. As their relationship develops, Clarence grows to trust her, sharing his inner thoughts and admitting his vulnerabilities. MC is a safe haven for him, and she understands him on a level deeper than most. While the other students may fear Clarence for his aloof disposition, or hesitate to approach him due to his detached rationality, MC sees the earnest sincerity woven into his actions and the warmth laced through his words. Others may think of him as an unfeeling robot or a terrifying monster, but MC loves him for the human that he is.

There’s a subtle but interesting juxtaposition here, in which Godheim Clarence and Eden Clarence – both possessing monstrous mutations within them – view themselves as monsters while most others do not, whereas modern Clarence – wholly human – views himself as human while most others do not. All three Clarences are keenly aware of what constitutes them, allowing this biological understanding to shape their perception of themselves, but they do not recognise that their actions paint a different picture to others.

Regardless of the world he inhabits, Clarence constantly straddles the line between man and monster. His selfless nature and dutiful diligence often lead him to self-sacrifice and superhuman feats, creating the illusion of a monster – but beneath this facade lies, always, the heart of a human.

- ☽ -

thank you for reading!♡

if you have any thoughts about this meta post, i'd love to hear them! responses are always welcome, and my ask box is open~

up next: android clarence, and the inevitability of tragedy. where is the line between human and machine? stay tuned for my thoughts on clarence's awakening main story!

[ghoststeel]

Its been a long time since I've watched a Gundam series. The last one I watched was the first build fighters but haven't since. That was until I saw a gif from G witch. It was of the Ariel with its bits surrounding it. I thought it was cool so I went ahead and started season 1.

I immediately fell in love with suletta. And as the story went on I figured out why. I saw myself in her. The episode that hit particularly hard was episode 11. The feeling of being a hindrance to people how she didn't say anything even though there was no food left for her.

That hit home in many ways. I often feel like I did or said something wrong or misunderstood the person’s reaction. Even so I feel like I insulted them or am bothering them so I leave them be. Things might clear up but most often we never talk again. I felt relieved, like a weight off my shoulder when miorine talked to her.

The duality of her relationship with her mother how she would listen without questioning, when Mio made her lose, the gut punch when she found out the truth and was ejected from ariel. Watching all that hurt cause I connected with it.

I actually waited till the remaining episodes came out to finish it cause I didn't want to watch her hurt.

I hated how she viewed herself. Because that's how I saw myself. Something about seeing it made me angry but not at her. Despite everything in my life, I'm still worried what people think of me, still presenting what my family expects me to be. Still fear that my existence is a hindrance. And watching a show like that hit too close. It made me feel like nothing's changed despite growing up.

I've only recently started moving forward. Admitting who I am and who I want to be. And Im happy that she was able to overcome it and find happiness in the end.

With all that's going on in the world it was nice to see a happy ending.

May All Blessings Find Their Way To You, I'm Wishing It

[se1f]

ramble #3

if everything is but a seeming appearance (meaning nothing is actually occurring), what is there to let go of? there is no "ego" to drop. no specific thoughts, feelings, or actions are needed... what is it with the multitude of concepts being forged as truth? it is baffling how some speak of the non-existent ego, yet advise to "get rid of it"?? no higher power can manipulate the ego- because ego doesn't exist. the same goes for "physical reality". it is just an illusion! i do find the label "ego" limiting in itself. i feel as if it creates this distinction of difference between all other entities. it is but a (illusionary) form, no difference between that, and mud.

if I had only taken words to be pointers in this unreal journey, there would've not been so much hindrance! this ramble is based on my "experiences". people may do as they please, and there is nothing wrong with sticking to concepts! for me personally, I just love going beyond. it is liberating!!

[istoleyoursk1n]

How would the boys react to a Tav who looks absolutely innocent only to be horrendously brutal in battle 👀

•❅───────────✧❅✦❅✧───────────❅•

TAV who appears innocent but is actually brutal in battle

.

.

: ̗̀➛ ASTARION

“And you expect me to align myself with the blissful little fool who stops to smell the roses? Oh, dear, who do you take me for?”

Barely cares for you and views you as nothing more than a naive imbecile at first. He finds your sweetness and innocence amusing, laughable even, but he’d scoff at the sight of you chasing after butterflies.

If anything he’d either brush you off or attempt to stain that innocence for his own enjoyment

A pinch close to dismissing your use of the group

Until he saw you fight

Utterly baffled when he first saw you but the shock was quickly overtaken by that all-so-familiar coy look on his face that came just before some sort of witty remark.

He’s impressed, amazed even, but he waits until after the battle to make his own comments about it.

In truth, he adores just how quickly you change from pure sweetness to vile brutality. Now that is something he can definitely work with.

There is just something so astonishing about seeing you demolish an entire group of goblins without much of a break or even a need for assistance. You’re relentless and strong, never letting anything stand in your way in battle, something he himself admires. Any past disgust or disregard he had for you slowly vanishes and instead is replaced with a curious interest.

“Well, darling, aren't you full of surprises? Here I was thinking we’d brought along a lost pup. I’m certainly glad to know you've got a hard bite hidden within you. Such a fiery little thing you are.”

: ̗̀➛WYLL

“Hm. It's quite nice to have a glimmer of light amidst all the chaos spewing about. I wonder what kind of flowers have you picked today?”

Finds your innocence/general sweetness to be some form of relief for him especially during the rather bleak moments of your journey. It's something he could always look to from afar to give himself a moment to smile.

He finds your innocence endearing, a source of warmth that he couldn't help but indulge in, thus compelling him to speak with you more often than most.

Was shocked when he first saw you fight.

He was speechless at first, his eyes widening at the sight of you ripping your enemy's throats without much of a second thought. He had to blink twice to ensure that it was indeed you doing all that.

The shock slowly turned into a wide-open-mouthed smile and a soft chuckle upon seeing just how great you were in battle. You were terrifying in your own right but it didn't dissuade Wyll’s interest in you in the slightest.

Wouldn't stop praising your fighting skills right after, and kept going on and on about possible titles for you in a playful manner. Though the sincerity in his eyes said otherwise.

“Is Slayer Of Beasts not an eligible title for you? Oh! How about… no that wouldn't work either. Regardless, your combat skills are impeccable! Truly, none could compare to your grace with a blade.”

: ̗̀➛GALE

“Ah. No harm in stopping to admire the view I suppose. What is it that you see? Aside from the brilliant rays of the sun of course.”

Doesn't exactly mind your innocence or your sweetness, he doesn't consider it a hindrance nor is he amused by it. If you want to stop attempting to pet every creature you see why should he be bothered?

Would probably question why you seem so blissfully ignorant or completely aloof out of his own curiosity but he wouldn't judge you for it.

Would sometimes tag along with you whenever you do get sidetracked but he’ll also be the subtle reminder that you should probably get going.

Slightly concerned that you’d constantly need assistance in battle or in particularly rough situations.

Pleasantly surprised when he discovers your brutality in battle.

Now he's all too curious as to where that entire ‘personality switch’ spews from. He won't stop asking questions about where you learned to be so brutal, why are you so different in and out of battle and so on.

Be prepared for every question he throws but do know it's only because he's become even more interested in you!

“Your prowess in battle is most certainly commendable! I do wonder where you could have learned such intense methods of combat? One could never turn a blind eye to a remarkable display of undeniable skill.”

: ̗̀➛HALSIN

“What a gift you are, to be so wondrously lost in bliss, running across fields of the oak father’s ever-blooming flowers. I may wish to join you someday.”

Also rather pleasantly amused with your innocence and/or sweetness. It was one of the first things he took notice of other than your scent of course. He finds it rather adorable that most things go over your head.

He has no qualms about you, even with your innocence and your seemingly soft demeanor, he places his full trust in you in whatever mission you set yourself off to.

Comes across as a bit protective at times as he views you as something fragile, something to be handled carefully.

Though in truth, he sees more potential in you than how most view you in your party. There must be more to you than an innocent little smile.

Taken aback upon realizing just how brutal you were in battle.

Sure, such brutality and violence could be useful against the foes of nature but he hopes that you never turn such strength against your fellow comrades and the innocents.

Other than that, he's impressed, commending you for your undeniable strength and skill in terms of battle.

If anything, he's grown more infatuated with you, amazed by both the sweetness you exude and the glorious beast you become in the heat of combat.

“Nature had made you all too perfectly, a delicate flower in the arms of your comrades and a ferocious yet beautiful creature when bathed in the blood of your adversaries. Breathtaking. Truly breathtaking.”

•❅───────────✧❅✦❅✧───────────❅•

[081314]

Book 7: The Ruler of the Abyss – Chapter 6 (Part 1)

Following is part 1 of my translation of Chapter 6 of Book 7: The Ruler of the Abyss. This part contains only Episode 7-88 (it’s as long as several episodes put together, so I had to give it its own post)

Main storyline spoilers after the cut.

Episode 7-88

Grim: Ugh… Where are we?

Sebek: This is… I recognize this place. This is where the Darkness engulfed us earlier! We’ve returned!

Silver: Where’s father and Sir Baul?

Sebek: They set off for the Moonless Forest, but…

Silver: !! You guys, look at the ground over there! Looks like some soldiers went this way!

Sebek: Appears to be the Silver Owl’s men…!

Silver: Father and Sir Baul are in danger. We need to hurry and find them!

Iron One A: W-What amazing power!

Iron One B: If our magicians hadn’t deflected those flames just now, she woulda burnt us to a crisp!!

Knight of Dawn: Focus! You’ll get trampled if you don’t watch out!

Meleanor (Dragon form): Rooooooaaar!!

Iron One C: Don’t give her even a moment’s rest! Charge!! Chaaarge!!!

The Iron Ones: Uoooooooh!!

Sebek: Ahhh…. Lady Meleanor!!

Grim: Get a move on, Sebek! We gotta make sure to stay close to the dreamer, right? We’re gonna lose sight of Lilia at this rate!

Sebek: You needn’t tell me that! I understand full and well this is but a dream, I just…. Dammit!

Yuu: I know this is hard for you, but we need to keep moving.

Silver: …Right. We have to hurry or else the rain’s going to wash away their footprints. Let’s go!

Grim: Geez, the rain’s comin’ down harder an’ harder!

Sebek: The roads are all muddy, and the sun’s set, too… You need to go faster, the both of you! Their footsteps are vanishing before our very eyes!

Grim: Oh, save your breathe, dude! I’m already runnin’ as fast as I can! Can’t ya just use that spell you showed off when we were lookin’ for Silver earlier? You know, the one where you were glowin’ an’ zoomin’ around all over the place.

Sebek: I take it you mean “Living Bolt”?

Silver: I’d never seen that spell before, either. Just when did you develop your Unique Magic?

Sebek: ‘Twas during the period when I trained alone in the valley, after you’d enrolled at Night Raven College… While refining my celerity, so that I might rush to our Lord’s side in the event of an emergency, I found an opportunity to develop it. However… I’ve far from mastered it. My Unique Magic allows me to transform my body into a bolt of lightning, and in that state, I can move rapidly and fire off attacks. …But as I lack the skill to properly use it, I become momentarily impaired after casting it. I’m thankful my opponent just now was our resident slouch, for had I tried to use it on a real enemy, they wouldn’t have waited around for me until I recuperated. It’s out of the question for me to use it to catch up with Lilia and my grandfather right now, as I would only be a hindrance to them as soon as I reached them. In truth, I had intended to hold off on demonstrating it before others until I’d mastered it. To think, I’d end up having to waste it rousing this sluggard here…

Silver: I… I’m sorry. But you know, it’s a really fitting spell for you.

Sebek: Hmph.

Sebek (whispering to himself): …As this is a dream and all, I should have liked to have pulled it off flawlessly for once…. Geez…

Silver: Something’s been on my mind ever since we crossed into father’s dream. This dream was made by Lord Malleus’s magic, so I don’t understand why it’s just been one tragedy after another this whole time.

Yuu: Now that you mention it…

Silver: In Sebek’s dream, he had it so father and Lord Malleus were about to go off on their internships together. If what Lord Malleus said before is right, then these dreams we’re trapped in should be based on what would make the dreamer happy… Dreams that would keep us spellbound forever. In father’s case, he should’ve been dreaming about Lord Malleus’s parents being alive and well, and not having to fight any wars against the humans. And the Land of Briar should’ve remained as it was, not chopped up into Briar Valley.

Sebek: Hmm… You certainly have a point there.

Silver: Lord Malleus said he’s observing everyone’s dreams… and that he’s reigning over them, too. If he knew that we were here, then he probably would’ve tried to get rid of us by now, like how he did in Sebek’s dream.

Sebek: Hmm… ‘Tis only speculation, but perhaps something is preventing Lord Malleus from observing Sir Lilia’s dream.

Silver: That’s possible, yeah. I wish we could wake up father already and have him help us, but…

(Swords clash in the distance)

Everyone: !!

Sebek: Someone’s fighting yonder!

Silver: It sounds like it’s coming from close by. Come on, let’s go!

Battle Map Conversation

Imperial Guard A / B: Gyagyaaa! Giii!

Iron One A: You assholes just don’t know when to give up!

Sebek: Look there! Some guardsmen are surround by the Iron Ones!

Silver: I don’t see father or Sir Baul with them. Maybe they stayed behind to buy them some time.

Iron One A: Ack- Looks like they got some back up! Doesn’t matter, you guys have no hope of beating us! Now lay down your weapons and surrender, or you’re gonna regret it!

Grim: Sorry, but the dictionaries we got at NRC don’t mention anything ‘bout “surrender” or “regret”! GET ‘EM!!

Battle Map Conversation

Silver: Augh, their reinforcements just keep pouring in…!

Imperial Guard A: Goeeee! Garururu!

Sebek: What!? You say you’ll take over for things here, and you wish for us to go on ahead!? But that’s…!

Imperial Guard A: Gyagyaaa!

Sebek: …Yes, sir. I promise you, we shall deliver His Eggcellency to the palace, together with Sir Lilia. Please, stay safe!

(Silver and co. depart)

Battle Map Conversation

(Something sparkles on screen)

Silver: …! This light, it’s…

Grim: The sparkles are showin’ us where to go! Must be magic!

Sebek: This magic… Doubtless it must be my grandfather’s spell. He left behind these landmarks to guide us. He trusts that we’ll be able to regroup with them… Let us hurry!

Land of Briar – Woods

Baul / Lilia: Haaa, haaa, haaah….

Lilia: Did we shake ‘em off?

Baul: !! General, look out!

Iron One A: Found you, Vanrouge!

Iron One B: Do you even have any idea how much pain you’ve put us all through!? Once I kill you, then my grandfather will finally be able to rest in peace!

Iron One C: Be careful where you aim! We can’t leave even a scratch on that egg!

Baul: Dammit, we’re surrounded. Looks like they’ve got ten… No, 15 men on their side. General, you go on without me and I’ll handle this. Hurry!

Lilia: Bullshit! There’s no way you can take these guys on by yourself.

Baul: What they’re after is your head, General, and the heir’s egg. And we cannot allow them to take either. As you can’t very well fight while lugging around the egg, I, Baul, promise to wipe out these miscreants myself. I’ll rejoin with you later. Now hurry!

Lilia: Dammit…! And I’m going to have your head if you die on me!

(Lilia departs)

Iron One A: Vanrouge is getting away! After hiiiim!!

Iron One B: Uwaaah!? What was that attack just now?

Iron One C: He cut down that massive tree with one swing of his Magearm…!? Shit, now the road’s blocked!

Baul: LISTEN WELL, HUMANS! MY NAME IS BAUL ZIGVOLT!!! I AM A MEMBER OF THE IMPERIAL GUARD OF THE LAND OF BRIAR – A TITLE I BEAR WITH PRIDE! THOSE WHO WISH TO SULLY MY AXE’S BLADE, STEP FORTH NOW! I’LL DEVOUR EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU!!

Grim: Woah! Look, you guys! Somebody’s fightin’ for their life over there!

Silver: That crocodile mask… It must be Sir Baul!

Sebek: The Silver Owl has got him completely surrounded. We must assist him! Quickly!

Grim / Silver: Okay! / Right!

Iron Ones A: What the!? His reinforcements snuck up on us from behind!?

Iron One B: Wait they’re… They’re’ humans!? The hell are they siding with the fae for…!?

Sebek: This has nothing to do with being a fae or human! It is simply that we do not like you! And so, we must fight!

Grim: That’s right! If you don’t like somebody, then you gotta show ‘em what’s what! That’s our motto at NRC!

Iron One C: Who the hell are these guys!? Troops, get in formation! We’re retreating for now!

(The Iron Ones depart)

Grim: Hey, look! They’re runnin’ away!

Silver: It’ll be bad if they come back with reinforcements… But chasing after them could end up costing us. Right now, we need to focus on tending to Sir Baul’s injuries.

Sebek: Sir Baul! I apologize it took us so long to find you!

Baul: Y-You guys…. Augh!

(Baul collapses)

Silver/Sebek: Sir Baul! / Sir Baul!

Sebek: What terrible injuries. Please, take this potion at once-!

(A whistle sounds)

Grim: Yikes, sounds like they really are callin’ up their buddies!

Sebek: We must get away from here. Sir Baul, please come with me! Here, rest yourself against my shoulder.

Baul: I’m staying here. It’s my duty to fight. You boys go after the General.

Silver: No, that’s… We can’t leave you behind!

Baul: Silence! I told you before, I don’t need help from the likes of you lot!

Sebek: ………. Silver, Grim, Yuu. Go on without us.

Grim/Silver: What!?

Sebek: I shall stay here with Sir Baul, and we shall buy you some time.

Silver: What!?? No, you guys can’t- …Besides, there’s no telling what’ll happen if you get too far away from father.

Sebek: WE’VE NO TIME FOR HESITATION!!! As he is carrying His Eggcellency, Sir Lilia isn’t able to move around freely and defend himself right now. You must go now and protect him! Protect what is precious to you! And I… I shall protect what is precious to me!!

Silver: Sebek…

Sebek: Hmph. You best not take me for a fool, Silver. We shall dispose of the enemy and regroup with you in but a moment.

Silver: …Okay, I understand. Let’s go, Grim and Yuu!

(Silver and co. depart)

Iron One A: We finally got the armored excavator past that block in the road! This is the end for you bastards!

Sebek: Hold your tongue! As if a pathetic little piece of scrap metal stands a chance against me! Sir Baul, please get behind me.

Baul: Human… Why are you doing all this for me…!?

Sebek: I know that even if I fight here, it won’t change reality one bit. However… There are things in life that I simply cannot concede on. Listen well, you wretched Silver Owl! I, Sebek Zigvolt, shall be your opponent! NOW LET US BEGIN!!

Sebek: It ends here! Haaaa!! Haaa… Haa… That was… the last one… S-So what did you think, Sir Baul! I’ve done it!

Baul: Amazing, you really did defeat them all…. You fought splendidly.

Sebek: !! Truly, I am underserving of such kind words…. Augh…!

Baul: Human… Why are you so desperate to help us fae?

Sebek: Though my father is indeed a human… My mother is a fae.

Baul: !!

Sebek: My maternal grandfather was not at all fond of humans. One could even say he despised them. And when his only daughter announced she was betrothed to a human… I couldn’t even begin to describe how terribly they fought. Presently, my father and my grandfather remain at odds with one another. However, not once has my grandfather ever distanced himself from us grandchildren. He’s a taciturn man, always with that same stern expression upon face, and I can’t recall him ever greeting us when we called upon him. And yet, he always kept his house stocked up with brand new children’s books, as well as candies and sugary refreshments that he’d never dare consume himself. I truly respect my grandfather, from the bottom of my heart. And that is why I… that is why I wish to be of help to you- to you all!

Baul: …..Hmph. I’m not sure you’d be of much help to anyone walking around looking like that. Your baton’s about cracked in half, and your defensive gear is in pieces.

Sebek: Y-You needn’t be concerned! Here I’ll – I’ll simply borrow some equipment from that collapsed Iron One over there and…

Baul: Human… Nay, Sebek Zigvolt. I give you my thanks for your actions today. As you’ve damaged your gear in battle, I’ll grant you your own suit of armor.

Sebek: What….?

Baul: In the name of Baul Zigvolt, Imperial Guardsman of the Land of Briar, and in celebration of the birth of this new warrior… The Night’s Blessing upon Ye.

Sebek: T-This armor… And this magearm, it’s…!?

Baul: The same ones we Imperial Guardsmen use. That magearm belonged to a fallen comrade… But I’m sure it’s preferable over your half-broken baton.

Sebek: Oh, ‘tis far and beyond preferable! I have no words! To be granted the privilege of wielding the very same equipment as the Imperial Guard!

Baul: All that’s left is your mask…. Hmm. This one should work well for you. In my troop, I’m the only one allowed to don the crocodile mask. As we share the same surname, and if it is true that your grandfather is a fae… Then perhaps the General was right. Perhaps our meeting was fate – Sebek Zigvolt, the half-fae warrior. I’ll be expecting great things from you.

Sebek: …Yes, sir! I vow on this mask, and on the Zigvolt name, that I shall fight with glory. Grandfa-… I mean, Sir Baul!

Baul: Alright. Now let’s hurry after the General!

Sebek: Yes, sir!

Battle Map Conversation

Grim: Where the heck did Lilia go!?

Silver: Black Scale Castle, the Imperial Palace, is located in the northern region of the Land of Briar. So let’s just head north for now.

Iron One A: Don’t stop looking! There’s a nice reward for whoever finds that dragon egg!

Silver: A reward…? …How dare they! We can’t let them lay a single finger on father or Lord Malleus. Come on, we’ll have them take a nice little nap for us.

Battle Map Conversation

(The ground beings to rumble)

Grim: What the- Is that an earthquake!?

Silver: !! Grim, Yuu, look out!

Grim: Waaah, that tree right in front of us just got hit by lightning!?

Silver: Lady Meleanor must still be fighting right now. We need to hurry and find father while she’s distracting the enemy for us...

Iron One A: I heard voices coming from over there!

Iron One B: It might be Vanrouge! Search the area!

Silver: Damnit, they heard us. I’m sorry, but we’ll be forcing our way through!

Battle Map Conversation

Silver: Have you seen my fath-… I mean, General Vanrouge anywhere? Ah! I know I’m a human and all, but I’m not your enemy…

(ring ring… ring ring….)

Grim: The fae are waving at us to follow ‘em. Maybe they’ll take us to where Lilia is!

Silver: I guess they believed me… Thank you!

Land of Briar – Woods

Iron One A: There he is, it’s Vanrouge! Capture him!

Lilia: Augh!

(Lilia collapses)

Iron One A: He’s down! Surround hiiiim!

Iron One B: …So this is the Land of Briar’s General of the Right, eh? The feared “Dragon’s Right Hand Man.”

Iron One A: Aww, he looks like a wee li’l bat that can’t get off the ground. Just breaks my heart.

Iron One B: It’s over. Just give us that egg and we’ll spare your life.

Lilia: Kishaaa!!

Iron One A: The guy doesn’t know when to give up, huh... Sounds like he wants us to take it from ‘im by force, then! I’ll give you my mercy as a knight and end this quickly. Haaaa!!

Lilia: …!

(Someone blocks the attack)

Iron One A: The Knight of Dawn?? …No, wait you’re… Who are you!? State your name!

Silver: …My name is Silver, and your tyranny ends here. NOW DRAW YOUR BLADES!

Land of Briar – Woods

Silver: Now’s my chance! Seyaaaah! …General Vanrouge! Are you okay!?

Lilia: Somehow or other, thanks to you. You made it just in the nick of time…

Silver: We ran into tons of Silver Owl on our way here, and there’s probably still a bunch lurking around. We need to hurry and press on.

Lilia: …Silver, you’re not at all obligated to take on this request, but I need you to listen to me.

Silver: Huh?

Lilia: I’m not gonna make it much longer… My body’s just about called it quits.

Silver: W-What are you…

Lilia: Please, take this egg… to Black Scale Castle for me. Go to Mystic Mountain, you’ll find an Imperial Guard’s camp site near the base... There’s a unit out there that patrols that whole area. First just… aim for there.

Silver: Are you telling me to leave you behind…?

Lilia: You probably can’t hear it, but there’s a bunch of soldiers headed right this way. There’s way too many for you to fight off alone while trying to drag me along. Once they get here… I’m gonna tell ‘em I got sick of carrying the egg and threw it into the ravine. That should buy you some time…. *cough cough*!

Silver: …..Alright. Yuu, could you hold Lord Malleus’s egg for me?

Yuu: Just leave it to me!

Grim: Man, this thing’s even bigger up close.

Silver: Please excuse me, General Vanrouge. …Okay.

(Silver lifts up Lilia onto his back)

Lilia: The hell do you think you’re doing!? I’m not a damn baby, you don’t need to carry me around! Don’t tell me… You’re gonna try to climb Dragon;s Tail Mountains with me on your back? That’s ridiculous! Just leave me here, dammit…! *cough cough*

Silver: I’ll be fine. I grew up around the mountains and have plenty of experience hiking with heavy gear. My teacher always used to say, “As long as you’re still alive, things will work out in the end.”…. So you can’t just give up on life already… You can’t!

Lilia: You little… The hell do you think you are, trying to lecture me… …Ugh…

Grim: Lilia passed out.

Silver: I’m amazed he was still standing when we found him. Let’s take a break for a little while. Now, should we head for that camp site, or just cut straight through to Mystic Mountain… In either case, we’ll be heading up north. Come on, you two. We need to get father and Lord Malleus to Black Scale Castle.

Battle Map Conversation

(Lightning flashes)

Grim: !!! Didja see that, Yuu! There’s a big ol’ mountain way over there. Looked like it was jet black.

Silver: That’s the sacred mountain known as Mystic Mountain. According to legend, the Thorn Fairy herself used to reside up there… And now, this country’s imperial capital, Dragon Capitol City and Black Scale Castle, sits on its peak.

Grim: Wait, so we gotta climb up that thing!?

Silver: We might be able to get them to loan us some flying mounts once we reach that camp site… But the mountain is always covered in dark clouds, and I heard anyone who climbs it without the dragons’ permission gets struck by lightning. Apparently, it’s to keep out any intruders. So I doubt we’ll be able to get there by air travel…

Grim: Yeah, but ain’t we carryin’ their egg!?

Silver: Everything depends on us getting to the camp site, I suppose.

(Soldiers march close by)

Silver: !! Those footsteps…

Grim: It’s the Silver Owl! What should we do?

Silver: Let’s hide in the thicket and wait for them to pass by… And then, we’ll pick off any of their men who have their guard down. We’ll be able to minimize any damage to our side that way.

Yuu: So we’ll have to fight them, then.

Silver: Yeah, if we don’t take some of them down and reduce their numbers, there’s a good chance they’ll just end up surrounding us. You know… The way he talks is all different, but the things my father says now really aren’t all that different from what he used to say when he was on the Guard.

(The soldiers approach)

Silver: …They’re here. Let’s go!

Battle Map Conversation

Silver: There’s some buildings up ahead, past the forest. Is that the camp site General Vanrouge was talking about?

Imperial Guards: Gyagyaaaa! Gyaruru!

Grim: Ooooi! We brought Lilia. Hurry up and come help-

(The guards brandish their weapons)

Grim/Silver: !?

Imperial Guard B: Human, enemy! Comrade, give back!

Grim: Crap, they think we’re the bad guys!

Silver: Damnit, and Sebek’s not here. We don’t have anyone who can translate for us…

(a projectile lands in the camp)

Everyone: !?

Iron One A: We found the fae’s campsite! Men, chaaarge! Ah! That huge egg that human’s holding… Is that the dragon egg!?

Iron One B: What luck! Out of all 15 units that entered the mountain, ours is the one that ended up finding it!

Iron One A: That egg is ours! Chaaarge!!

Imperial Guards: Gyagyaaa! Firume! Garrururu!

Grim: Grrr, it’s just one problem after another with these guys!

Silver: We have to help them. Grim, Yuu, we’ll need to fight our way through!

Battle Map Conversation

Silver: Phew… We were able to chase off the Silver Owl. But still… I can’t believe they have 15 of those units prowling the mountain. We won’t be able to stay here. Let’s go.

Imperial Guard A: You, not enemy? You, beat iron one…

Grim: That’s what we’ve been sayin’ this whole time, man!

Silver: We’re trying to deliver General Vanrouge and the heir’s egg to Black Scale Castle. The general is badly injured.

(The Imperial Guards huddle tighter and talk amongst themselves)

Imperial Guard A: Okay. We, enemy, search, beat. You, castle, go. Comrade, we, protect, far away.

Grim: Uhhh… Are they sayin’ they’re gonna handle whoopin’ the Silver Owl for us?

Silver: Yeah. And they’re even offering us their protection.

Imperial Guard A: Attack, sorry. Night’s blessing, upon ye.

Silver: …Thank you. And the Night’s blessing upon ye all.

Battle map conversation

Grim: Haaah, haaah… Geez, the road’s gettin’ steeper an’ steeper. Ya better not drop Tsunotarou’s egg, henchman!

Yuu: It sure is heavy…

Silver: You okay, Yuu? I don’t see anyone trailing us, so I’m fine if you want me to hold the egg for a while.

Grim: What, you’re gonna carry both Lilia and the egg at the same time!? Don’t you ever get tired?

Silver: Of course I’m tired. But it’s weird… I also feel like there’s this strength welling up inside me. Maybe because I’m thinking of “that day”.

Grim: Whaddya mean?

Silver: The day I found out my father and I aren’t related, I ran away without even thinking. It was a night kind of like this one, it was raining really hard and the forest was pitch black… the weather was just awful. I couldn’t go back home, I couldn’t move forward, I just sat there and cried… But my father came and found me, and he carried me home on his back while I was bawling my eyes out. And that’s why… I know it’s probably not really appropriate to say this given the circumstances, but that’s why I kind of feel happy right now. I’m happy that I’m now able to carry him on my back. And this time, I’ll be the one to carry him home.

Battle map conversation

Grim: Hmm… Is Malleus really inside this thing? Looks more like a big ol’ jewel than an egg to me.

(Grim pokes the egg)

Yuu: Something moved inside! …I think.

Silver: For as long as I can remember, Lord Malleus has looked pretty much the same as he does now. Makes me wonder what he looked like when he was born.

Yuu: He was probably in his dragon form.

Silver: Ah! …Maybe that’s what’s stopping Lord Malleus from interfering with father’s dream, because he’s dreaming of a time before Lord Malleus was born… Imagination is the root of all magic. And maybe it’s hard for Lord Malleus to control something he knows nothing about, something that’s beyond his imagination…

Grim: Whatcha mumblin’ about, Silver?

Silver: It’s nothing. There’s no use wondering about this and that. Let’s keep moving.

Battle map conversation

Silver: Huh? …The smell wafting from this forest, it’s so familiar. ...Ahh, that’s right. The house father and I lived in is across Mystic Mountain. …It’s okay. I have all those memories of the time we spent together in that house right here with me. No matter what happens here on out… I’ll never lose my way again.

Land of Briar – Woods

Silver: Haaa, haaah…. That bridge up ahead… goes over the gorge that connects Dragon's Tail Mountains and Mystic Mountain.

Lilia: Ugh… Where are we…?

Silver: Are you awake, General Vanrouge? We’re just about to reach the bridge that goes up to Mystic Mountain.

Lilia: So you really did climb up the mountains carrying me on your back…?

Silver: Yes, sir. And there weren’t any issues along the way.

Lilia: And what about the egg!?

Grim: No worries. Yuu’s got ‘im.

Lilia: *sigh* …Oi, Silver. I can walk by myself, let me down already.

Silver: Are you sure? I’m fine carrying you to Dragon Capitol City.

Lilia: Heh, you’ve gotten so cheeky. Listen, you might not be able to sense it, but the fog that envelops this place is rich in magic. My wounds’ll heal up in no time here. …Easy does it.

(Lilia climbs off Silver’s back)

Lilia: Yuu, I know you’ve been lugging that heavy thing around for a while now. Here, give me the egg.

Yuu: I’ve kinda gotten attached to him.

(Lilia takes back the egg)

Lilia: I don’t see any cracks or anything on it. ….*sigh*… It’s so damn heavy. Ah, and before I forget, I don’t see Sebek anywhere. Did something happen?

Silver: He stayed behind with Sir Baul to hold back the enemy for us… We haven’t met up with them again yet.

Lilia: I see… So he’s with Baul…

(The ground rumbles)

Grim: Eep! Was that an earthquake!?

Lilia: No, that awful noise has to be…

Iron One A: We finally found ya, Vanrouge!

Iron One B: Take out the bridge with the armored excavator! We have to slay Vanrouge and get that egg at all costs!

Lilia: Tsch. They’re bringing out that huge thing again…!

Grim: And there’s Silver Owl guys pourin’ in from left an’ right!

Silver: General Vanrouge, Yuu, Grim, you guys hurry and cross the bridge! I’ll buy you some time! I WON’T LET ANY OF YOU PASS THROUGH! I’LL BE THE ONE TAKING YOU ON!

Iron One A: Ha! You’re just a stupid kid, you seriously think you have a chance against us? We’ll smash that bridge and throw all you guys to the bottom of the gorge with it. ARMORED EXCAVATOR, FULL SPEED AHEAD!

???: I call upon thee, Lightning – Pierce through the clouds above! Living Bolt!!!

Iron Ones: Guwaaaaah!!!

Silver: That flash of lighting just now, it’s…

Sebek: T-To think, you would be standing around dawdling here of all places…. D-Did you fall asleep along the way? …Yowch!!

Silver: Sebek! ...That armor…!?

Sebek: Ha! So you’ve noticed, have you! I should very much like to flaunt it off right now, but… That will have to wait until after we’ve dealt with the enemy! Ouch!!

Iron One A: Reinforcements, huh! Arrgh, hurry up and get that Armored Excavator up and running again!

???: Oh, no you don’t! Haaaaa!

Baul: There’s no way we’d let rotten scum like you take even a single step on these sacred mountains! I’LL DEVOUR THE LOT OF YOU!!!

Silver: Sir Baul! You’re okay!

Baul: …Hmph. You did good making it this far. I’ll commend you for your tenacity, if nothing else.

(Bats fly across the screen)

Lilia: Heh… Looks like you’ve escaped death as well, Baul.

Baul: General! I apologize for taking so long to get here.

Sebek: Sir Lilia! Where are His Eggcellency, Yuu, and Grim?

Lilia: I had them wait somewhere safe, beyond the bridge.

Sebek: But should you not be recuperating with them…!

Lilia: Dumbass. I wouldn’t be much of a general if I sit this one out, now would I? You don’t need to worry about me, my wounds are all closed up now thanks to our blessed Mystic Mountain. Now then, Silver Owl… If you want to run away, now’s your last chance.

Iron One A: Hah, you talk big for somebody who looks like he’s about to pass out. You guys don’t stand a chance. We’re gonna take both your head and that egg of yours and go home heroes! You aren’t gonna have your way with things any longer! …YOU MONSTERS!

Land of Briar – Woods

Iron One A: T-That’s impossible… How are they beating us?! There’s only four of them, why the hell can’t we bring them down!?

Iron One B: I heard fae can draw in magic energy from nature. They must be absorbing the evil energies on this mountain and healing themselves while we fight! They’re gonna wipe us out at this rate. Commander, please, give the order to retreat!

Iron One A: Damn those blasted monsters….! To make it all the way here, with that egg just within our reach… Dammit! MEN, RETREAT! RETREEEEAT!

(the iron ones depart)

Everyone: Haaa, haaah ,haaaa….

Sebek: Did we… Did we chase them off?

Lilia: Looks like it…

Silver: T-Thank goodness…

Baul: Praise be to the Mystic Mountain’s divine protection, praise be to the Night’s Blessing…

(The ground rumbles)

Silver: !? An earthquake!? And it’s a big one!

Sebek: The storm’s raging even worse now… Augh! I can hardly open my eyes!

Lilia: The land is resonating with the dragon’s- with Meleanor’s rage.

Baul: What on earth! There’s a bunch of black clouds and thorns covering the Verdant Moors.

Silver: !! This is just like when Lord Malleus overblotted…!

Sebek: Don’t tell me, is Lady Meleanor-!

Lilia: Shit, the bridge is about to collapse!

Baul: Hurry, everyone!!

Battle Map Conversation

Lilia: Haaa, haaah….  I can see… Dragon Capital City up ahead… We’re almost there, Black Scale Castle isn’t too far off. Soon as we drop off the egg, I’m heading straight back to the Verdant Moors….!

(Something rumbles in the distance)

Everyone: !!??

Grim: Eep! I think this earthquake’s the biggest one yet!

Baul: Everyone, to me! I’ll put up a forcefield!

Sebek: I-Is it over?

Baul: Appears so… Ah! There’s a bunch of boulders blocking the path we just came down.

Silver: We’re not out of the woods yet. Let’s hurry!

Part 2

Part 3

[bookofbonbon]

How about these prompts? “Was any of it real? Or is this your way of getting back at my father?” And “Please, don’t shut me out again.”

Pairing: Aemond Targaryen x Reader.

Word Count: 1109.

Posted: 05.02.2023

Edited: 03.09.2023

Three years.

Three years did Prince Aemond spend courting you. An exceptionally long time considering the two of you were already of age to marry when you met.

Of course, you thought nothing of it. After all, your father had initially rejected Aemond’s proposal so, you had always just assumed this was his way of punishing you for pushing back against his decision.

The thought brings a bitter smile to your lips.

How brave you once thought yourself for doing so.

So, proud of yourself you had been.

How foolish you truly were.

In hindsight, you should have kept your wits about yourself, that your father would continue to draw out your courtship for as long as he did; that the dragon-prince would so eagerly continue his pursuit for your affections despite your father’s hindrance.

You thought it was love.

It was only after your father’s death that you discovered the reason behind his hindrance. When upon your return to your homelands for his funeral, your inconsolable mother forced you to see the truth of it - the face of Aemond’s vindictiveness.

How you were nothing more than a puppet and Aemond the puppet master in a cruel game he had been playing with your father. He pulled at your every string and made you dance and dance you did.

Tears prick at your eyes as you stare longingly into the distance through the barred window of your bed chambers within the Red Keep. Breathing a small laugh, the irony is not lost on you.

A prisoner of your own making.

Too caught up in your own thoughts, you miss the first knock but, the second one comes louder, harsher against the wooden grain of the door.

You ignore it, you already know who it is, you already know he’ll let himself in and sure enough, he does.  

“We are not yet wed, you should not be inside my maiden chambers,” you speak plainly, continuing to stare out the window.

As if he hadn’t been inside a hundred times before.

“I could not be content to retire to my chambers knowing that you are upset with me.”

You almost laugh at his words; upset was an understatement.

“I’m not upset with you.”

Not entirely a lie, not entirely the truth.

You finally look at him, dark circles line the underneath of his eyes, the skin around his sapphire one a particularly nasty shade of red – as if he’d been digging his fingers into it. Fingers that were now anxiously twitching at his side.

“You did not seek me out upon your return. I thought perhaps it was the exhaustion from a long journey but, at supper, you would not spare even a glance toward me. You ignore me when I knock on your doors and dismiss me when I enter. You are upset with me,” Aemond sighs tiredly. “It pains me to think that in the time that you have been away I have done something to hurt you, that you would shut me out so coldly and so near to the day we are to wed.”

His words send a chill down your spine, the deep hurt that had been coursing through you over the last few weeks simmering for far too long and bubbling into a quiet fury that lurked beneath your surface.

Had he no shame?

“Does your spite know no limits?” you seethe. “Is there no reprieve in your wickedness?”

Aemond freezes at your words, your eyes cold, hard, and unforgiving and, it doesn't take him long to figure out why. Face blanching as realisation dawns on him - he should've known better; you had after all chosen to remain in your homelands for an unusually long time. He thought perhaps it was the grief but, as he looked upon you now, he could see the cold fury burning bright within your eyes.

Aemond swallows your words thickly, mouth opening but nothing coming out - his silence speaking volumes. He knew that you knew and when your coiled frame seems to shrink further, Aemond begins to truly fret because it wasn't like that anymore. It hadn't been for a long time but, how could he tell you that without admitting loudly to his once true intentions?

Stepping closer to you, Aemond hesitates- he wants to both bring you into his arms and comfort you and, drop to his knees and beg your forgiveness but, you flinch at his almost touch.

“Was any of it real?” your voice is small and far away, gaze focused on the skyline.

“Of course, it was real,” Aemond tries to reassure you. “It is re-”

“Enough with the lies,” you snap, his words sending you over the edge. "You will tell me the truth of it."

Surging forward, you grab his face roughly between your hands, forcing him to look at you.

“Now, I will ask you again. Was any of it real? Or was this your way of getting back at my father?”

You search Aemond’s eye desperately, hopeful still but, his eye strays as he speaks his next words. He cannot bear to look at the devastation he has caused you, will cause you as he confirms what you already know to be true.

“…it was my way of getting back at your father.”

A strangled sound leaves your lips as you violently rip your hands from either side of his face and turn away from him, hands burning from his touch.

“Get out.”

“No, no, no,” Aemond panics, rushing forward and pleading with you. “It is not like that anymore; I swear it to you. I love you now, I love you honestly, I love you truly, I lov-”

“Aemond!” your voice cracks, defeated. “Just get out- please.”

He doesn't want to leave, he wants to stay and fix this and fix this now but, Aemond knew you better than he knew himself… knew when to keep pushing and when to stop and this time he knew he needed to stop as the threads barely holding the two of you together threatened to snap.

“Okay,” Aemond nods reluctantly, walking backwards as you usher him out. “But please- just don’t... please, don’t shut me out again. Just give me one more chance. We can fix this; I can fix this; I will fix this.”

You say nothing as you close your chambers doors on him, waiting a beat for his shadow to disappear from the space beneath the door before, you collapse to the ground. Hurt and anger spilling over and staining your cheeks as you mourn your father, your Aemond, yourself.

A prisoner of your own making.

-

All fics are my own work - I have not posted my work anywhere else.

Disclaimer: I do not own any characters/places mentioned above.

Do not copy. Do not translate. Do not repost.

bookofbonbon 2023. All rights reserved.

[wings-of-fire-confessions]

I've been thinking about it and I'm a huge Queen Thorn hater. But like, I have my reasons beyond just “Preyhunter was just a tortured child who ate too much NightWing propaganda! Leave him be!” I also just generally resent how Queen Thorn treated Stonemover after finding out he became mentally debilitated and is actively self-mutilating.

I get they have nothing in common anymore; I just find that the insinuation that Queen Thorn just up and leaves Stonemover to rot at Jade Mountain alone to just be very uncomfortable for my taste. At least be a friend or something and check on his well-being, you're ex-lovers who were separated in war! Stonemover has so much anxiety he's literally killing himself slowly over it and Queen Thorn's response to seeing his current state is berating him while he's down and then abandoning him again. Ughhhh it gives off those vibes where toxic friends who find out someone in their friend group becomes disabled they immediately outcast them for being “too much of a hindrance” for them. Different situation entirely but that's the same twisting gut sensation that I'm getting out of this.

Queen Thorn can screw off. Stonemover deserves better. Preyhunter deserved better. I hope to god some of these characters get repercussions for their actions such as Moonwatcher and Qibli hiding secrets about Peacemaker from Winter (I really want to see a confrontation where Winter is defending Peacemaker from the subtle discrimination from Moonwatchers and Qiblis hypocrisy where they keep gawking at him uncomfortably. Winter finds out the truth and holds his tail down to snap at them for the amount of distrust they have for him still. He becomes a sort of figure for Peacemaker to reach out to in response to this.)

.

[tuliptic]

Horizon: I’m In My Big Dream

Henlo working adults here, this is a reading for y’all. There was an anon who asked me if I’d be making a career reading so here it is! Not sure about how this connects with those who are still in school/college, but y’all can still try it out.

And yes, we're back with Ateez now hehet OvO

Close your eyes, meditate on this topic and ask yourself the question: How am I supposed to manoeuvre around this adulthood that builds on the basis of status and career? Breathe in and out, make sure your mind and heart is calm. Then, open your eyes to see which pile talks to you the most/draws you in the most. Once you’ve found your pile, scroll down to the respective parts to see what are the messages for you.

Pile 1    -     Pile 2

Pile 3    -     Pile 4

Disclaimer: This is solely for my entertainment purposes. Take only whatever that you feel like it. If it doesn’t resonate, it’s okay to just drop it. That aside, I do not consent to my work or here to be used by third parties on this platform or other websites.

Decks used: Luna Cat Tarot Deck (Major Arcana), Linestrider Tarot Deck, Flower Petals Oracle Deck, Sweet Dreams Oracle Deck, Starcodes Astro Oracle Deck, self made lyrics deck.

Pile 1:

One card to represent you: The Tower

Weirdly, I don’t see you being that catalyst of change. Which could only mean that there’s some huge changes that are happening in your world. It may be people around you, people close to you, or you yourself. Those changes are very visible and impactful to the point you’d be able to feel it even if it’s just happening to acquaintances. Imagine how heavy it could be if you’re in the centre of the impact. This change may be happening in your workplace or any place that has authority in play, where there’s this high possibility of lacking balance, especially power balance.

1. What am I hoping to achieve? - Eight of Wands rx, Page of Wands

From the cards, I see that you want to achieve a steady and comfortable career life without rushing yourself. You probably have something else by the side, or you tend to have a lot of activities once your working hours are over. To you, work is just… Work. You’re not letting it get in the way of the little happiness in your life. It feels like quite a few people have commented on how you live, saying that you’re not expanding or focusing on your career, which probably made you wonder if you have a career goal or not. Although you may be inclined to start a side hustle that fulfils your interests. Say for example, you enjoy doing art and mayhaps want to accept commissions.You’ve been having those thoughts in your head and heart, wondering if you’re supposed to take that first step out.

2. What’s stopping me from achieving it? - Ten of Swords

There are a lot of past hurts that I’m seeing here, which you may be using as an excuse to limit your thoughts, to limit your options. The past hurt is not healed, and to some, it’s still far from being healed. You thought you have moved on from it but everytime you see hints of it, or bits and pieces of it, you remember those times that you’ve gone through that pain and you break again, in another sense. To some, you may even be having physical pain or discomfort in your bodies. A weak constitution, perhaps, stopping you from taking the opportunities offered to you, or making you question your capability in completing a particular task. You realise a lot of things are more than just the surface, and the underlying conditions that you have just keeps holding you down.

3. What do I have in me to counter those hindrances? - Two of Swords rx

I would say that you have a very personal skill/talent that not many have: you have the ability to see the truth. Quite a few of you are capable of immediately finding out the root cause of a problem. Some of you may choose to work around the problem, but for most of you, I see that you have the tendency to attack the problem and the ones who created the problem. There’s a certain… Anger? Resentment? Towards things that are unfair and unjust. With that, you won’t be able to hold those in you and eventually lashing them out to the people causing the problem. This may have displeased a lot of people in the past, and you’ll continue to think that you’re on the right path. Your uniqueness is lovely, but also, maybe… See the next paragraph.

4. How do I counter those hindrances? - Ten of Cups

Maybe be kinder to yourself, to build a family where you can select who the family members are. There is quite a lot of pain and anger in you, and most of all, you guys don’t really have a place to rest. This is the time for you to rest with your family, your loved ones. There is help around you, and what you need to do is to find them out and use them well. You’ll realise that the emotional connection you created with the people around you is your greatest asset. They’ll not only be able to help you through the lows and the hindrances, I’m also seeing that some of them will be clearing the path so that you can walk through them without difficulty. It took quite some time for the cards to fall out so there may be some stagnation, something else that's stopping you from this. Take your time to dissect what you're going through.

5. What should I focus on for now? - The Hermit

I’d say that you should tune into yourself. Take some time off and rest, meditate even. The fatigue is running on you. Make time for self-maintenance before your body and mind decides the time for you. There’s a lot of self-healing and introspection that you need to do. You can discuss this with your friends and family, or the people around you. However, you need to remember that the final call is in your hands, you need to make your own decision on what you want, how you want to achieve. It’s difficult when you’re standing in between the crossroads. Nobody said that you should pick only one path to walk, so just have faith and run towards where you want. Expand your choices, try as many things as you want.

6. What other suggestions for my possible career path? - Five of Swords

What I’m seeing here is conflict resolving, so probably a very specific job in HR or customer services? Customer service cuz that’s where most of the conflict rises, and you probably know how to look at things from both parties, or even from a third party point of view, and provide the necessary help and solutions to the problem at hand. HR cuz of the conflict between the employees and employer. For some reason, I do not think of you as the spokesperson of the company, but for the employees, where you phrase your words and make the top management agree with the point you’re trying to make. These career paths probably never crossed your mind but you can have a look at them and see if they can help you in your career growth, as stepping out of your comfort zone from time to time is also important, as it helps you to see the different sceneries, reminding you that you can go further.

Overall energy: The Empress; King of Cups rx

You guys (gender neutral) probably have a more emotional side to you, which is pretty fitting to be in fields that focus more on interpersonal relationships and interactions. Some of you are probably doing something similar at the moment, but not all recognise this skill of yours. There are a lot of themes of exploration here, so it’s best that you take your time and try, explore and expand your choices and views, welcome the limitless magic into your life and see how your life changes in wondrous and unexpected ways. You’re not alone. Your friends and families, your guides, and sometimes even strangers will be supportive of you. Take care.

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Pile 2:

One card to represent you: Judgement

Most of you feel like the angel blowing the trumpet, being the bearer of the message; being the one who’s siding with the judge who passes on the final judgement. However, there are also some of you who are the ones being judged; being under the eyes of many and not knowing how you should react. This pile gives me the feeling that you do know what you want/need to do, but it doesn’t stop that fear and anxiety you have when you are under the eyes and judgement of others. However, you guys have a community or a friend group behind you, supporting and fighting for you as you walk on the path you choose.

1. What am I hoping to achieve? - The Sun

Recognition is one of your main drives in terms of career. You don’t really mind people fronting a project or being the main speaker, but you mind a lot when your efforts are not acknowledged and you were not given the proper credit. In your point of view (and honestly speaking, most people’s POV), a group project is made up of many people with different tasks, and it irks you a whole lot when someone tries to take credit for everything, including your efforts. You want yourself to be seen, to be noticed, to be recognised for your skills and work. In a sense, you want to build your own brand, you want to be known for what you’re good at, and if possible, you’d probably want to join some team that is efficient and aligns with your career objective in achieving the best. Incompetency stresses you out a whole lot. It’s difficult but it’s not impossible, and eventually you’ll be able to find the abundance that your career can offer you.

2. What’s stopping me from achieving it? - Five of Swords

You’ve probably been disappointed for quite a long time repeatedly, making it difficult for you to have that faith again to do things with that fervour you used to have. Right now, there’s a high chance that the feeling of defeat you’ve been feeling is dragging you down, where you’re just doing enough to pass by the days. This can be due to the lack of boundaries that you have not set properly, or you couldn’t really stop anyone from overstepping your boundaries. You probably have been known to avoid conflict for the sake of harmony, which kinda lets people take advantage of this.

3. What do I have in me to counter those hindrances? - Ten of Pentacles; The Empress

Ten of Pentacles to me usually refers to family, but what I’m picking up from here is work colleagues and weirdly, a King of Pentacles energy as well. There’s something here that I can’t really put into words, as it’s like a combination of masculine and feminine energies here. It’s like these energies form you into an all-rounder, allowing you to connect to people easier. You can have a hard/tough exterior, yet still soft and gentle in the heart, able to understand the inner clashes of other people easier. Maybe this is why you tend to get involved in conflicts, as you’re very susceptible to the energies of others.

4. How do I counter those hindrances? - Temperance

I’m getting a feeling that you’ve probably heard this from a lot of people, where they tell you to take a step back and regain your balance, to not put too much energy on others and to focus on yourself instead. This is exactly what you should be doing to regain your sense of self back. Meditation is something you can try, but most of all, you need to give yourself ample time to return to your optimum state. You’ll probably think that hanging out with your friends or doing things that you like is something that can help you regain balance, but it’s more than that. You need to be at peace with yourself, to listen to what your heart wants to tell you, to analyse what your head is telling you. Dreams may have some meaning and messages, so do pay attention to them. If you’ve decided to try out meditation, you can try communicating with your higher self. You may get some inspiration and guidance from it.

5. What should I focus on for now? - Nine of Pentacles rx

Discipline is one of the main keywords, which gives me the vibe that you should be very aware of where you use your finances and energy, to not let anyone out there drain your energy. You may have an ideal self that you wanna be, but some of you are pretty content with where you are right now. Either way, you need to remember that you are still you, no matter what you’ve done, what you’re changing into. You’ll need to recognise your own strength and your skills, to not take them for granted. It’s time where you take some time-off to do some self assessment to see where you are standing in the path of life, to see where you want to go and which step to take.

6. What other suggestions for my possible career path? - Four of Swords rx

For some reason I’m seeing counselling which kinda makes me laugh as you’re probably in need of therapy currently. I guess it’s that thing where you understand the importance of therapy when you go through them, and you in turn would want to help those who need that help. But yeah, counselling or therapist, or anything that helps with relieving stress and helping others to sleep. ASMR? Yeah those. Jobs that can help yourself and others to let go of the tension in their shoulders, to be able to breathe again. They come in different forms, but that’s the ultimate goal.

Overall energy: The Star, Page of Swords

Overall speaking, I think this pile is called to remember who you wanted to be. There’s a lot of tension here, but know that hope has always been with you. The Star has been lighting your way as much as it can, letting you receive the messages that the Universe wants you to know, and in turn, asking you to be that messenger to spread the good news to those who are in need. I believe that there’s a calling in you, telling you that you’re not fulfilling your purpose yet. You need to remember that you’re the co-creator of your life and destiny, and you’re supposed to write the story of your life, you’re supposed to determine what’s your purpose here.

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Pile 3:

One card to represent you: Justice rx

There’s a lot of things going on in this pile, where there’s a side of them that wants to hold control or be in charge of some projects, yet there’s another side of them that knows they have no power over them as they can’t even do justice to themselves. This pile probably tends to self-sabotage themselves more than other people, and may have faced unjust situations lately. Also, there may be a certain past that has been catching up with you. Remembering a situation that happened a decade ago? Someone who’s no longer in your life kept popping up in your head recently? Yeah that.

1. What am I hoping to achieve? - Ace of Pentacles rx

Financial stability or a favourable financial situation is the first thing that came to my mind. You’re probably in a not-so-okay state in terms of finances, which is why this card popped up in reverse. To you, being in a decent financial situation is like a new beginning, where you can do the things you’ve wanted to do without worrying about the potential financial difficulty or backlash. This would probably be one of your main goals, and is something that is considered a huge personal achievement, almost like a dream. It’s best to not daydream about it too much but to take action.

2. What’s stopping me from achieving it? - Nine of Wands rx, The High Priestess rx

You’ve been stretched out, constantly pushing yourself to achieve whatever temporary goals you’ve set. There’s also some self limiting thoughts, and some of you may be neurodivergents, which makes you not quite capable of being not-stretched-out.  You have not been kind or gentle to yourself, and have been ignoring the gentle voices in you that’s asking you to rest. You probably have lost connection with your intuition and/or your inner voice, focusing too much on the external world. It’s time for you to work with your dreams and your spirit’s energy to reach your highest good. Stay still, breathe, listen. There’s always some messages out there, in the wind, in the flipping of pages, and in you. Be gentle and kind to yourself, you deserve them more than anybody.

3. What do I have in me to counter those hindrances? - Nine of Pentacles

You have the skills and abilities in you, and I’m also seeing some connection and network you’ve built up throughout the years. This card talks about self development, providing for yourself, and that’s one of your main strengths. You have them in you to achieve the independence that you’ve wanted. Sometimes, you also need to invest in yourself, so that you can level up yourself and to also enjoy the fruits of success. Self-control is also something this card talks about, so it’s time for you to put a knot on impulsive spendings. Show appreciation to the little things, the little success, and happiness shall follow.

4. How do I counter those hindrances? :- Seven of Cups, The Fool rx

One thing I’m picking up from this is that it’s time to wake up. Stop living in your fantasy and start taking charge of your life. Unlike The Fool, who goes on a new journey with the heart and mind of a child, you’re going through this second journey of exploration and growth with the heart and mind of an adult, and with it comes more responsibilities. Dreaming about success is fine, but actions speak better than thoughts and empty words. Spend some time to listen to your heart, break free from the illusions that your brain is painting, and to embark on this new journey. You’ll meet similar sceneries and similar people, but you have to remember that they are no longer the same.

5. What should I focus on for now? - Nine of Swords

First and immediate thing I’m picking up is that you need to rest, that you’re in a burnout right now. You may disagree with this, but you probably have been experiencing an extended period of burnout, to the point you see it as something daily and natural. No, it’s not natural. You can’t expect yourself to achieve something because others did as you’re built differently, and you need to adjust to your needs accordingly. You’re suggested to reconnect with your inner child. Find something that you used to enjoy doing, and maybe find a friend to do them together. You need to understand and accept that you’re built differently with different needs, and then figure out how to work around it.

6. What other suggestions for my possible career path? - The Chariot rx, The Hierophant

Hmmmmmmm. What I’m picking up here is that you’re not suitable to work on something that has a tight deadline, or sudden projects. Some may require a fast paced project with clear directions given, but most who are picking this pile are not comfortable in a fast paced environment, hence The Chariot in reverse. You would prefer to work out your schedule based on the requirements given and go through them meticulously. First thought was freelancer but at the same time, you’re someone who needs stability and a fixed job. Being in a project team would be good for you, but not as the project leader. At least, not yet. By being in a project team, you’ll continue to gain experience little by little from various roles, and you’ll be comfortable with your tasks as time passes because you’ll get used to it. But in short, just do what you want and run ahead. Trust and believe in yourself that you’ll be able to work things out.

Overall energy: Death, The World rx

There’s a heavy message on change and rebirth, and your cycle is far from complete. It’s like… There’s a lot more to go, and a lot more challenges that are waiting in front of you. To some, this may feel like a very difficult period to go through, but you’ll realise that you’re receiving powerful messages from your guides right now, and you know that you’re on the right path. It’s like you’re covered in scars from all the battles you’ve fought. But look at it in a different light, think of those scars as battle medals, cuz you’ve fought through and came out winning. Everything you’ve done, you’ve fought for, has made you who you are right now. And this will continue, where you’ll continue to change and learn and grow. Abundance will land on those who work for it, so stay strong and keep going!

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Pile 4:

One Two cards to represent you: The World, Justice rx

You’re probably arriving at your goal, achieving what you’ve wanted to achieve. However, you’ve been working yourself to the brim and may have outdid yourself in the process. You’ll need to regain your balance and do justice to yourself. Take some time to rest as you’re completing this cycle, lean in to what is easy and comfortable and use that comfort to renew, grow, and expand. Gently expand your world through compatible people, collaborative skills, and through doing what you love. The World is a lovely card to get in any reading, but you also need to be aware that this marks an end of whatever you’re doing. Take this chance to ease yourself as you prepare for a new journey ahead.

1. What am I hoping to achieve? - Wheel of Fortune rx

I feel that you’re looking to gain control over your career and your life. You probably have lived a life that… Doesn’t give you any chances to make decisions on your own, and you probably hated it a lot. Now that you have the time and chance, you’d wanna take things into your own hands and feel how it is like to make your own choices and to live the way you want to live. You don’t mind falling, failing, or even climbing up from that pit. To you, it’s a chance for you to grow and to see how far you can go without having people to pave a beautiful path for you. There are so many people out there that you wanna connect with, and it’s great to activate that part of you. Just remember to remain true to your intentions, and you can’t go wrong.

2. What’s stopping me from achieving it? - Knight of Cups

I hate to say this but I’d say your home/house/family have been pulling you back. Your family probably has been doing what they think is best for you without considering your wishes. It’s like… Forcefully spoon feeding you things that you don’t like, or maybe even things that you’re allergic to, which in turn, ruin your health or may have tampered with how you view things. Part of you may think that suffering is beautiful, and may have romanticised pain cuz that’s what you’ve felt growing up. It's as though saying that the pain you're experiencing right now is something well-deserved. Now that you’re your own person, you’ll need to find a way to pull yourself out of those uhhh… excess sentimentality. 

3. What do I have in me to counter those hindrances? - Ace of Cups rx

Yes, we’re talking about that excess sentimentality here too. You have to keep everything in check, to not let that cup of yours overflow. For those who have no idea how the Ace of Cups look like, go ahead and google an image of it. Generally, it is a card talking about an overflow of love, affection and happiness. However, this card in reverse talks about the opposite, how these emotions have turned from positive to negative, and how it has taken control over your life. You have it in you to recognise this pattern, to know that this is not helping you, and you’re ready to wake up from this. The process of awakening. That’s what you’ve gone through, or going through. 

4. How do I counter those hindrances? - King of Pentacles

King of Pentacles is practically the last card of the minor arcana, and to me, it embodies a wisdom that is very different from The Hermit or other cards that talk about wisdom. The King here talks about earthly wisdom, something that is learnt from age, failure, success and growth. You’ve learnt through so many things in life, and it built you to who you are right now. It feels like career and materialistic items give you the reassurance and stability you need, and you use your skills to attain those. You may feel scared as you try stepping out of your comfort zone (aka stop letting others to shelter you and start to voice out for yourself), but pay attention to your heart and mind, do not allow fear to distract you.

5. What should I focus on for now? - Eight of Pentacles

Focus on honing your skills. Find one or two that you like most, or you think that would help you in the long run, and focus on them. Work hard and improve, get better day by day. Do not wait until you’re good, only then you market your skills. Market them now and grow better along the way. There’s no better time to start other than now, because you know that once you start, you have no way out and you can only grit through it. Listen to your life, listen to your heart. They know what you want to do and you’ll be surprised at how much you’re capable of doing.

6. What other suggestions for my possible career path? - Three of Cups

First thought that came into my mind is PR. You’re more suited to be involved in fields that require interpersonal relationship skills, such as PR, corporate communication, emcee, being on a writer’s column, even doing interviews, etc. You tend to have a way with words (puns, maybe?), and you may be known for how your words light up someone’s day. You want to be the Sun, without knowing that you already shine. There’s a lot of themes about sunshine here, where you can be the light at the end of the tunnel. Cultivate this skill and you will be able to see a huge difference in how you view and handle your current relationships. From there, you’ll be able to bring it to the corporate world and put it to use.

Overall energy: Judgement, Two of Pentacles rx

There’s a heavy judgemental energy you have towards yourself, and there’s also a lack of balance. It’s as though you’re trying to find your own purpose and what you’re meant to achieve, career wise and personal life wise. There’s a lot of pent up frustration (and a little bit of anger) here, but you need to be kind to yourself. It’s alright to not be able to do things on your own, as you’re meant to achieve great things along with people. Remember, you are stronger when you’re not alone. Collaborating on projects doesn’t make you less important, as we all play our own role in everything. There’s this personal experience that I want to share as I type this out. I used to be in charge of doing the introduction and conclusion of group projects, and this made me wonder if I’m just terrible at providing pivotal points and arguments. My teammates told me that I play a huge part in it as they find doing the introduction is the most difficult part for them, and it’s important to have a good start to build up the inquisitive side of the reader. So yeah! You may see it as something small, but small things build up big success. Good luck, and get on your way to see the new you in the future.

[lustspren]

Open, Pandora ft. Soyeon

length: 7k words of pure smut.✦

Soyeon & Male Reader.

genres:  anal, hard sex, bdsm, blowjob, oral sex, creampie, shower sex, dirty talk, facefuck, facial✧ 

(The Judge sequel, and a requested comission.)

✦✧✦✧✦✧

Almost a year has passed since your "incident" with Jeon Soyeon. Your life continued with it's natural course, you two didn't even keep in touch during all that time, so you started to think that she had simply forgotten about you; but you had no problem with it, you understood it perfectly, especially considering that her life was more than busy at that moment: comeback, promotions, awards, concerts. It was evident that she wouldn't have time to meet someone so foreign to her social circle. 

You tried every day to get her out of your head, constantly convincing yourself in vain that her call wasn’t going to come, that you had only been a "one night stand" and that's it, but the constant memory of your pelvis slamming violently against her ass, and the large load that then spilled onto the ground directly from her hole to the ground prevented any kind of progress on it.

The weekend was normal like any other, your routine wasn’t out of the ordinary on Friday or Saturday, you spent all day at home playing video games or reading a book, and one of your coworkers had visited you to chat, but in general, simple monotony. You weren’t a person who frequented many places in which to socialize, it could be said that it wasn’t your thing, you preferred the comfort of your home, and calm places in which to be able to do your things without unnecessary hindrances. The only way to get you out of your house was with an incentive that really interested you, it could be an activity, or a person.

10:13 p.m. You were lying in your bed playing Hades on the Switch, already in your pajamas, under the unchanging softness of your sheets, when your phone rang. Seeing who it was almost made you throw the console off the bedroom ceiling.

--The Judge--. Jeon Soyeon. You had kept her contact with that nickname for a simple security issue, which was stupid since you were sure that absolutely nobody cared who you had among your contacts, but that was her.

You didn't want to answer right away to look like a loser, so you waited a few seconds looking at the screen until you finally swiped the green button.

"Hello?" you answered.

"Ah, hello, sorry to call so late, but the truth is that I don't care either," Soyeon's unmistakable high-pitched voice answered you on the other end.

"I was starting to think you'd forgotten me," you got up from the bed and wandered around your room.

"I did, yes," she admitted, which broke your heart a little, "but it was a hard fucking year for me."

"Oh yeah, I could tell by how you were throwing shit at Mnet on national TV, it was brilliant."

"But they deserved it, right?" she gave a small giggle.

"They deserve to go bankrupt along with your shitty company," you laughed back.

"They're lucky I keep them alive, without me they're nothing," that was the most self-centered and pretentious comment you'd ever heard come out of her mouth, but it wasn't a lie either.

"Wah, how modest," you teased, "well, how have you been?"

"Hm, why don't you come over and you know... we talk about it?" she invited you, with a silkier and sexier voice than usual.

"Yes!" you agreed to the millisecond in the excitement of the moment, you even gave a little jump, "I mean, yes," you calmed down, "pass me your location and I'll be there in a moment."

"Very well, I'll wait for you here, sweetie," said this, she hung up, and after a few seconds you received her message.

You threw your phone on the bed and moved like lightning through every corner of your bedroom to get dressed, you didn't know what the hell to wear for such an occasion, and your bedroom soon became a hovel because of how messy it was. It took you a long time to get something that convinced you, and even when you were already dressed, you felt that even that wasn’t enough to be up to Soyeon's standards.

You asked for a taxi and left your apartment quickly, you had everything you needed, your phone, your keys, your wallet, and above all, your desire to fuck one of the most talented women in the industry. You ordered the driver to go as fast as possible, after all, you didn't want to keep her waiting. A little less than 10 minutes passed when you were finally in front of the residential complex where Jeon Soyeon was staying. You got out of the car, and you stood at the outside gate.

--I'm outside-- you texted her.

--On my way.-- she instantly replied .

After a few minutes she came out of the building to meet you, wearing a black hoodie that was almost to her knees, the hood up and a mask for obvious reasons.

"What's up, you look cute," she said as she opened the gate for you, to walk back into the building.

"Thanks, um... you too?" you followed her, while you saw the garden and the fountain to the right of the path by which you passed.

"Wait until we get inside and then tell me that, I had to put this damn thing on just to get out for a second."

You followed Soyeon into the apartment and then to the elevator, up to the fourth floor, and then through a few meters of the corridor until you reached the door of her apartment. Just as you expected, Soyeon's apartment was not modest at all, in fact, it was quite large compared to yours; she took your hand, and led you into the living room, where she had a macbook on a coffee table, along with two speakers and a midi keyboard.

"Sorry about the mess, I was working on something, have a seat if you want," she said as she closed the macbook and gathered everything from the coffee table to go put it away.

You sat on the wide and soft white sofa while you took a look at your surroundings, the apartment was big, but it was obvious that Soyeon was a fairly tidy and simple girl, with only the necessary luxuries. Without a doubt what caught your attention the most was the sound system installed there, with speakers located at strategic points in each corner of the room, you wondered if this was where the magic happened first.

You didn't have time to think about it before Soyeon came back and almost made your eyes pop out of their sockets, she had already taken off her hoodie, showing her true outfit. She had a blue sweater crop top, black leather boots and what drove you crazy the most, a short jean skirt, that showed off her beautiful long legs, that, combined with her sexy exposed midriff, blew your mind.

"My god, you look amazing," you said almost instinctively, not ignoring the fact that she had short blonde hair and looked like she was born with it.

"I know, right?" she put her hands in the pockets of her skirt and made a slow 360 degree turn so that you could see her very well, "Do you want coffee? It's the best I can offer you, I haven't been drinking alcohol lately."

"Sure, I love coffee," you smiled kindly, and she left for a few seconds to return with a cup of hot coffee in her hands, which she placed on the table in front of you.

"There you go," she sat down next to you, closer than you'd expect, and she pulled one of her legs up onto your thigh, "and well? What were we up to?" her elbow rested on the back of her sofa and her cheek rested on her hand as she watched you.

"Oh yeah," you reached out to take the cup and take a sip of coffee, "I was asking how you've been," you turned to meet her gaze.

"Well, it's been quite a bittersweet year, as a group we did great, but you know how this industry is," she sighed, "you can't have 5 straight months of peace of mind."

"Yeah, I can tell," you agreed, "but hey, Tomboy and Nude were fucking bops," you took another sip of coffee.

"I appreciate it, but that doesn't mean that I've spent 80% of the year with stress headaches," she took the cup from your hands, to also take a sip of coffee, then put it back on the table, "and you know what I do to de-stress… right?" with a quick and agile movement, Soyeon climbed onto your lap, then placed her hands on your shoulders, and gently caressed them.

The sudden attack took you by surprise, so it took you a while to play along and put your hands on her bare waist, gently squeezing the flesh between your fingers.

"I can get the idea, yes," you agreed, looking her up and down without even hiding it, then back into her eyes.

"Yeah, of course you do," her hands moved slowly to your neck, where she touched your hair, "maybe it was a mistake not to call you until now, you could have… you know," she pressed against your lap and leaned forward to press against your chest, then, with her face inches from yours, she licked slowly from left to right across your lower lip, "help me with that juicy fucking cock."

"I'm here now, and I'm only yours… for you to use," you squeezed her waist a little more, and then your hands moved down her thighs to hold them on each side of your hips.

"God, I'm warning you boy… you might be opening a Pandora's box today," she licked her lips slowly and bit the tip of her tongue, taking in every detail of your face.

"I'll take the risk," you agreed confidently, closing the distance between your faces to smash your lips against hers. You were immediately reciprocated, and the kiss quickly turned into an intense tongue battle. Her fingers gripped the hair at the nape of your neck, and her hips began to move from front to back, quickly making your cock hard inside your pants, Soyeon noticed this, and she hiked up her skirt to move more freely over your bulge. In response, both of your hands went straight to her ass, you gave each cheek a hard squeeze, and in all the intensity of the moment, you gave her a quick spank that you were sure had stung. Soyeon moaned in the middle of the kiss, to put her hands under your sweater and caress your chest and abdomen; she pulled it up, and you raised your arms for her to take it off you. Her own sweater soon joined yours on the floor, as you had made her repeat the process, leaving her in just a simple white bra that she immediately took off too.

It was the first time you saw her boobs in full display, and you certainly weren't disappointed, her boobs were modest, but that didn't mean she didn't have extremely nice and suckable nipples, anyway, you had to make sure first.

"May l?" you asked her for permission, with your hands on her back.

"What did I tell you about the stupid questions?" she replied, glaring at you.

"Right, sorry."

Your mouth plunged fully into hers perky little tits, you wrapped your arms around her petite body and held her close to you while you sucked and licked her nipples, Soyeon let out a few small moans, moving her hips against your lap; her hands went to your hair, her fingers tangled in it, giving it little tugs and squeezes as you devoured her tits for almost a minute.

"No, stop, I need that cock in my ass, right now," she cut you off with a slight nudge of her finger against your forehead.

"Only if you're okay with me fucking you with that skirt on."

"You're not in position to make demands, asshole, but I don't care, I just want you to use my fucking ass like a cum dump."

Her dirty words were all you needed to get your inner motor into overdrive, that showed off, as you pushed her off your lap so that she fell backwards against a cushion. You stood up and began to undress, Soyeon positioned herself on all fours, her face resting against the cushion, her tight ass up, and her predatory gaze fixed on you as you released your throbbing cock for her to see. The show didn't last long, as you returned to the sofa and knelt behind her; you removed her panties in an instant, noticing that this time she didn't have the plug in her ass, and that her pussy was starting to get soaked.

"Sorry, cutie, this time it won't be so easy for you," she teased you, shaking her ass mischievously.

"I don't think that's a problem," you winked at her, to bring your two fingers to her slit and moisten them with her own fluids, then you brought them to her ass, and began to insert them very slowly until your knuckles were almost inside her hole. Soyeon bit her lip looking over her shoulder at you and gave a soft moan of approval. You pumped your fingers in and out for a little while, just long enough to make your job a little easier.

You brought the palm of your hand to your mouth and released a big spit into it, to quickly drop it on your cock and begin to lubricate it with your own saliva; when it was slippery enough, you pressed the tip against her ass and patiently pushed forward. It was clear you couldn't get in as easily as last time, but seconds passed, and already your flesh was buried halfway inside her tight hole. Soyeon's breathing became more agitated, and her mouth was half open in an O shape.

"Holy fucking shit! Don't stop, I need it all, fuck!" she demanded, squeezing her cushion into her hands.

Doing her bidding without question, you continued to thrust slowly until almost your entire length was buried deep inside her ass. Your body lit up in a sea of sensations that had been dormant for a long time, you had forgotten how incredible that felt, so you didn't bother to hide the loud moan that came out of your mouth.

You took a moment before starting to move your hips; the pace was slow and leisurely at first, just to make sure her ass fit perfectly around your cock, but you knew that soon Soyeon's body was going to ask for more and more, and you certainly weren't going to deny her.

"Fuck me hard honey, show me how much you missed that tight fucking ass," her words came out between subtle little moans as she looked at you.

She still had the skirt wrapped around her waist just the way you wanted it, you took advantage of this, holding it with your left hand to start giving stronger and faster thrusts against Soyeon's ass.

"Oh shit just like that!" she moaned even louder, raising her back a little to grab onto the sofa armband.

You bit your lip and groaned, her ass felt exactly the same as you remembered, tight and soft, and of course her short blonde hair made her look even sexier and petite than usual; she was driving you crazier than you'd like, since you were hardly going to be satisfied with just her ass tonight, you wanted more.

But for now you were concentrating on another task, the clashes between your pelvis and her ass soon turned violent, and with them came the second spank of the night for her, this time you didn't control your strength, so your hand stayed marked red hot on her buttock.

"Yes! Treat me like a bad fucking bitch, beat me up, fucking destroy me!" she screamed between agitated moans.

That turned you on more than it should have, and you just let yourself be carried away by the carnal and animal impulses that came to you. You spanked her as many times as you could, one after the other, on each buttock, you had no mercy of any kind, every time your hand collided with her ass her meat moved like jelly, and you didn't stop until it was colored like a fresh tomato. Soyeon screamed, growled, and clung to the sofa as best as she could for the force and savagery with which you fucked her; but if it wasn't enough that both her buttocks were deep red, you reached forward to grab a handful of her blonde hair and pull it back.

"Fffffffuck! Fuck! Fuck! Fuck!" she screamed with each thrust, "please just fill me, fill my fucking ass, I'm so fucking close!"

The words couldn't come out of your mouth due to the great physical effort you were making to satisfy her and yourself, there was sweat running down your forehead, which fell directly on her ass and her lower back, you pulled harder on her hair, causing her neck be thrown as far back as possible; her back made a perfect arc, just enough for you to lean forward and look into her eyes as you took your last few thrusts before exploding inside her. Feeling your thick, hot load inside her hole, Soyeon couldn't help but gasp as she suffered a violent orgasm, the spasms shaking her body as if she had been shot by a taser. You both moaned audibly, and she was tightening around your shaft, refusing to let go until she had every last drop of cum inside it.

With the passing of seconds you let go of her hair, consequently, her face fell on the cushion that she had been holding a moment ago. You straightened your back, and very slowly withdrew your cock from her ass until it finally came out with a little --pop--, and along with it, a river of cum slowly spilled down her pussy to the sofa. You, exhausted and needing to catch your breath, fell back and in the opposite direction of Soyeon, resting your head on the armband of the sofa.

"Oh, you think I'm done with you? Not even close, boy," Soyeon said after almost 2 minutes of neither saying anything, pulling herself up so she could sit on her knees between your legs. Judging by her look, and the apparent insatiable hunger she had today, it would be normal for you to fear for your life at that moment, but the only thing you felt was the desire to give her what she deserved and more. This was the day you were going to completely ruin Jeon Soyeon.

"I still have a lot to give. Go ahead, try me," you said, straightening up a little with your lower back against the armband so that she had more mobility.

Soyeon lay with her chest against the sofa, your cock in front of her face, she took it with one hand, and stuck her tongue out to flick it several times against it, then, she began to give your shaft slow licks from your balls until your tip; your breath hitched, and you began to get hard again as her licks and wet kisses did not stop.

When your erection was fully hard and ready again, Soyeon took it straight into her mouth, only sucking on the tip at first, and swirling her tongue around it several times until she lowered her head further, this time. towards the middle of your shaft. She began to pump her head up and down at a considerable pace, giving you a wonderful nice and slow blowjob, you already knew that she was very good at giving head, but this time there was a double effort in how she moved, and in how she used her tongue to make sure to stimulate every corner of your cock.

Not content with the work she was already doing, Soyeon stopped to bring you very slowly down her throat, you let out a long moan, as her nose rested against your pubis and little gagging sounds emanated from her. She kept you there for longer than you expected, until she finally pulled you out with a long breath; she kept jerking you off, still catching her breath until she plunged back into your cock.

She did a complete change of pace, her blowjob going from slow to messy, slippery and needy; her hand accompanied the motion of her mouth, both moving up and down fast while her ass was raised, a sight you couldn't just ignore, and it only turned you on more.

"G-god, I want to fuck you so bad, I want to be inside that wet fucking pussy," you said between heavy gasps, causing Soyeon to stop and pull you out of her mouth. She didn't say a word, she just straightened up and was on your lap in an instant, her pussy brushing all the way across your cock.

"So you want my pussy, huh?" she teased, moving her hips slowly and brushing her slit against your manhood, "and tell me, darling, do you think you're worth it already?" she cupped your face with her hands for a moment, then lowered them down your neck, your shoulders and left them on your chest.

"I don't know," you shook your head, not taking your gaze off hers, "all I know is that if you think my cock feels good in your ass, you'll see stars when it's inside your pussy."

Soyeon paused suddenly, smiled mischievously and raised her hips to take your cock in one of her hands, giving it a few strokes, until she lined up her entrance with your tip and impaled herself without any kind of foreplay or warning, you were just fully inside her in a matter of seconds.

"Ahhh fffffuuuck!" Soyeon moaned loudly, feeling the walls of her pussy stretch and mate perfectly with your cock.

Being inside her pussy felt like a momentous experience for you, you had moaned in unison with her, and all your senses were heightened to feel how tight and wet she was. Your hands went to her waist, and your fingers firmly squeezed her soft flesh; Soyeon held on to your neck, and she tangled her fingers in your hair to start moving her hips up and down. The slow pace was perfect at first for you both to get used to each other, but your body gradually asked for more, so you plunged your mouth back onto her tits, and brought both hands to her ass to give her a strong spank with each one, that made Soyeon grunt with pleasure, and began to ride you faster and harder.

Soyeon's tits became your part of the job as she jumped on you, you licked and sucked on her hard nipples with the intensity that the heat of the moment demanded, and what she did in response was sink you deeper against her chest with the force of her arms. After a few seconds you separated from her breasts and concentrated on her neck, where you distributed wet kisses and small bites, from there, Soyeon brought her mouth closer to your ear, moaning and breathing heavily to bite the lobe of your ear; you spanked her again, which made her pull your hair so hard that you felt like she was going to rip it out, but at the time you didn't care.

"Fuck baby, this cock feels sooooo fucking good! Shit!" she said directly into your ear, to then give you small kisses on the temple and on the cheek.

"And I fucking hate you right now for denying me this pussy a year ago," you growled back, seeking Soyeon's lips to kiss her passionately.

"Then fuck me hard, show me that fucking hate you fucking wimp," she murmured mid-kiss, then bit down on your lower lip.

You took that challenge to heart, so you wrapped your arms around her small frame and clung to her to twist your body to the right, to swing your legs off the sofa and plant your feet on the floor; Soyeon stopped, and you used all the strength in your legs to stand up with the petite woman still clinging to you with her legs, she was quite light, so it wasn't a problem for you to grab her thighs, hold her in the air, and start fucking her with all the fierceness you could give.

Soyeon wrapped her arms around your neck and held onto it as firmly as she could, her face drunk with pleasure was only a few centimeters from yours, and as much as you wanted to keep kissing her, you decided to keep giving yourself a delight watching her moan, and She went crazy with your thrusts.

"Don't you fucking dare to stop! I'm gonna cum!" she whimpered, teary-eyed, "I'm gonna cum on this delicious fucking cock, fuck!"

Words couldn't get out of your mouth, you were so immersed in the pleasure that her pussy was giving you that you couldn't concentrate on doing two things at once, you just kept slamming her pussy mid-air from her. Soyeon growled, and leaned into your face to plant desperate kisses on it; she bit your jaw and jawline a few times, until her body simply gave way to the explosion of her orgasm. Her spasms and shudders were intense, which was also reflected in how the constrictions of her pussy choked on your cock, now soaked in her fluids, while moans filled the entire room, as did the sounds of your pelvis crashing against her ass.

"I want you to cum on my face, I need to feel that hot fucking load on my skin," she whispered against your lips, now holding onto your shoulders.

Once again you didn't respond, but her request burned into your head as you gave her the last few pounds before coming close to your own orgasm. As soon as you felt the tingles in your body, you took a few steps forward until you reached a free area of the soft white plush carpet, and you got out of her pussy to leave her on the floor; Soyeon was immediately on her knees, and you quickly started jerking off right on top of her face, she stuck her tongue out, and you exploded with a loud moan.

Streams of thick cum shot out of your cock and fell in strips straight onto Soyeon's pretty face, some spurts landing on her now closed eyes and left cheek, but most of your load landed on her tongue, and you didn't stop until you had released your last drop. When she noticed that she was no longer receiving any more, Soyeon wiped her eyes to open them and swallow all your load, and as if that weren’t enough, she took you straight into her mouth for a few seconds and left your cock clean and shiny.

"The answer is yes, cutie, you deserve my pussy… and more," she smiled at you, letting your cock rest between her eyebrows as she placed small kisses on your base.

"Oh yeah? Like what?" you asked, your breathing still agitated.

"Fuck my mouth, use it as you please, use ME as you please" she answered before licking you from the balls to the tip, and sucking it for a few seconds.

"Oh, I'll be delighted, trust me," you weren't going to waste time, you directly grabbed each side of her face with your hands, and guided your cock into her mouth again, but this time you were in complete control of the situation, so you slowly pushed forward until only your balls were out.

Soyeon still wasn't used to having your cock buried up to her throat, you could tell it in how she tensed up and how she closed her eyes; the gagging sounds returned, but as you began to move your hips, she relaxed as did her throat, giving you the green light to fuck her face without any mercy.

You weren't too hard at first, your thrusts were on the fine line between being too slow and too fast, she had her hands on your thighs, and you had your hand resting on the back of her head. Your cock appeared and disappeared inside her mouth with great ease, and in a short time the saliva drenched you, it fell from her lower lip, landing directly on her tits or on the carpet.

Little by little, your pace increased, and with it the tension returned to Soyeon's throat, which was definitely not made to be fucked so fast and hard, but that mattered little to you, you weren't slower, quite the opposite, the hand that used to be on the back of her head has now been raised a little higher, so you can aggressively pull her hair while making a mess of her.

Your cock got slippery as if it had been soaped several times, and Soyeon's nails dug a little harder than you expected into your thighs, she opened her eyes to look at you, and you were met with a crystallized look, that didn't take long to become small tears that ran down both cheeks. You kept using her mouth for less than a minute, until you finally pulled your cock out and let her breathe.

"Ahhh fuck!" she said with a cracked voice, picking up the strings of saliva that fell from her mouth to return them to your cock and give it a few strokes.

"On your fours, I want that damn pussy again," you were a bit scared to order something like that, but to your surprise, Soyeon didn't let out a single complaint and turned around to lean forward, resting her hands on the carpet and present her ass for you one more time, but this time you had a different goal. You knelt right behind her, and rubbed the tip of your cock several times between her folds, up and down, until you were back deep inside her pussy.

Soyeon let out a long and discreet moan of pleasure when she felt your throbbing cock inside her again, this time she didn't have to adjust to your length, which allowed you to fuck her with everything you had from the first moment. You held onto her waist with both hands, giving her pussy strong thrusts that made her move like a rag doll. Soyeon, between moans, looked at you over her shoulder, with a look that demanded that she wanted more and more, and you certainly did so.

You leaned forward, sliding an arm under her body to make her flat against the carpet, then you extended your legs behind her so that you had to rest both hands on the carpet, on each side of her body; from that position your face floated above Soyeon's blonde hair, it was perfect to give her exactly what she wanted. Without further ado you resumed your thrusts, but this time you were thrusting downwards, causing your cock to reach still unstimulated places inside her pussy; Soyeon shuddered at the sudden wave of new pleasure that coursed through her body, and tilted her head back so that once again her gaze met yours.

"It feels so fucking amazing baby, holy-, shit! fuck!" the words didn’t even come out easily from her mouth, since you didn’t allow her in the meantime ecstasy.

She wasn't the only one going crazy at the time, the new position gave you more control over your hips, and you could afford fucking her even harder and faster than before, that made you feel like you were going to explode at literally any moment, it was all too much to take, the silky walls of her pussy engulfing your cock, her petite body being pinned against the floor and almost sinking into it, and Soyeon's sensual moans made a combination that was hard to counter.

You wanted to make her cum again, but it was all too much for you, so a few more thrusts were enough for you to sit on Soyeon's thighs and pull out your cock, jerk it a few times, and explode pointing right at her back, which soon was adorned with big thick strands of cum that didn't stop coming out for a few long seconds. You held the image seared into your memory, before carefully letting yourself fall back, your back on the plush surface as you gazed up at the ceiling between heavy gasps.

You closed your eyes for a while, and you couldn't tell how much time passed until Soyeon gave you little kicks on the side of the torso to get your attention; you forced your eyes open, and saw her standing right next to you.

"Hey, idiot, I'm going to go take a bath, my back feels sticky," she said to you, giving you a wink and turning to walk towards the bathroom. You propped yourself up on your elbows to watch her, and you couldn't help but see her hips sway from side to side with each step she took, she knew you were watching her, and you knew she wanted you to follow her, and so you did.

You guided yourself to the bathroom when among all the silence of the apartment you managed to hear the sound of the water falling, when you entered you found the shower glass blocking your view, and you could only see the blurred silhouette of the small woman. You closed the door behind you and walked to the shower, brushing aside the skirt that she removed from her body, and sliding the glass to the right to join her in the shower.

"Oh hi, I thought you weren't coming," she said, stepping back out of the spray of water and looking over her shoulder at you.

"Hard not to come when you move your ass like that when you walk," you stepped forward, wrapping your arms around her body to bring her back to your chest, you both exchanged a few kisses, as your cock brushed against her lower back.

"It's just that I thought you were already dead, you were asleep for half an hour," she giggled, "anyway, would you help me wash my back?"

"Sure," you nodded, taking the soap and carefully running it all over her back. You took advantage of the moment to help her with other areas of her body, such as her shoulders, her arms, her thighs, and finally her two buttocks, which you indiscreetly squeezed.

"I guess that's not my back, boy," she complained.

"Nope, it's not."

Soyeon ignored you and went back into the water to get the soap off her, after doing so, she took a few steps back to meet you again.

"Your turn, go ahead," she grabbed your shoulders and traded places with you, and you couldn't help but squeal a little at how cold the water was.

"Ah shit! It's freezing, Soyeon, dammit!" you complained with shrugged shoulders from the cold.

"Oh come on, don't be a crybaby," Soyeon grabbed a bottle of shampoo and poured some without even warning over your hair to start squeezing it out. She was really going to shower you all over.

After she had washed your hair, she took the same soap and started running it all over your body, you just relaxed, letting her do all the work. Her gentle little hands moved carefully, and you just stared at her the whole process, which meant that when she crouched down in front of your cock, you both locked eyes.

"You know, you didn't make me cum last time..." she passed her two hands, one with the soap, over your semi-hard cock and your balls. She applied special pressure to them, as if she wanted to check that they were still working at that moment.

"Just say you want me balls deep inside your pussy again, it's not that hard," you teased, with a small smirk.

"Yes, I want you balls deep in my pussy again," she handed you the soap to put in the soap dish, and got up to push you into the shower so you could wash the foam off yourself. When your whole body was clean, she pulled you back to crash her lips against yours; you cupped her face with both hands, and she directly grabbed your cock and began to slowly rub it back to life.

When your erection returned, she didn’t hesitate for a second to put herself against the glass wall and support her hands on it, you stood behind her, and you flexed your knees a little to align your cock with her entrance, you rubbed it a couple of times between her folds, and finally got inside her for the 4th time that night.

At this point it shouldn't have surprised you anymore, but every time you were inside her you couldn't help but think that you never wanted to get out; as you started to move at an intermediate pace, her tight and wet pussy just made you feel in heaven, and of course the fact that you were both wet from head to toe added an extra touch of sensuality to the whole thing.

In the midst of the need to feel her even closer to you, you wrapped her body with your left arm and her neck with your right arm so you could cling to her; you pressed her further against her glass, causing her tits to smash against it as you moved your hips ever faster and harder. You were almost choking Soyeon, so her moans were muffled and turned more into grunts than anything else, aware of that, you applied more force in your grip, which became an instant trigger for her pussy to tighten around  your cock with each thrust.

You could feel Soyeon's legs start to weaken and shake from the mix of pleasures, but you held her firmly in place, pinned against the glass door as you mercilessly fucked her. She lasted a lot less this time, you guessed it was because of her ruined orgasm from a while ago, but of course the surge of ecstasy was suddenly released with the fury of four demons, she couldn't moan or produce almost any sound, but she growled so powerfully that the closest thing you could relate to it was a small rabid animal.

If it weren't for you holding her in your arms, you were sure Soyeon would have collapsed to the shower floor, but that wasn't going to happen, not while you were still giving her the fuck of a lifetime. Your left arm continued around her body, but the arm you had on her neck was pushed out, this allowed her to breathe properly again, but all you wanted was to place your hand on the back of her head and press one side of her face hard against the glass.

"Fffffuuuuuuuuuuuck!!!!" she yelled with her voice already broken and raspy, her body  wildly bouncing thanks to the crashes of your pelvis against her ass, "I'm gonna fucking cum again, shit shit shiiiiiiiiiit!!!"

You were also close to your orgasm, and feeling the strong pulsations of her pussy around your cock again made you cum almost against your will. You didn't come out of her this time, so all your load went deep into her tight cavern; you both became a trembling mess of moans and shudders, Soyeon more than you, but it was up to you that she didn't collapse, a task that was difficult for you to carry out since you were focused on completely unloading inside one of the most talented rappers of the industry, you moaned with your eyes closed just like her, until you stopped your thrusts.

There was nothing more than agitated and ragged breaths at that moment, you were still inside her, but you had already loosened your grip so that both of you could relax.

"You… you came inside me," she gasped, "definitely, I've never met a motherfucker as audacious as you."

"I don't hear you complaining," you replied, then pulled out of her, letting the lack of your meat plug cause all the cum to spill out of her pussy onto the shower floor.

"It's because I have no complaints, it always feels good to have a big fucking hot load inside me," Soyeon turned to look you in the eye, her hands on your chest as she kissed your chin, then gave you a little push and fell to her knees in front of you, to put your cock in her mouth and make it completely clean once more.

She stood up again to turn off the shower, then came back with you to wrap her arms around your neck.

"Uhm... do you want to go out for something to eat and get to know each other better?"

The question took you by surprise, you didn't expect such an offer from her, you were already thinking that after that night you were going to fall into oblivion for another year, and you had no illusions whatsoever. However, this was the first time that you could tell that she was really interested in you.

"I... I mean, sure! Yes!" you nodded, a smile on your face.

"Nice, you seem like exactly the guy I need in my life, you're cute, sassy, and you have an amazing cock," she said with a mischievous smile, before giving you a peck on the chest, "c'mon, let's go out."

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Spren Notes:

Well, as you read above, this is my first commission done. Man, if you're reading this, I hope you love it and that it's just what you expected! And to everyone else, thank you so much for taking the time to read this piece!

If you are also interested in buying me a commission, do not hesitate to go through my inbox, I'll be delighted!