#ugh i don't want to have to go read all his appearances as of late but i do indeed hate being out of the loop on such things sooo

[hood-ex]

Hang on a damn minute. You're telling me Jason is back on his killing game now? That he's looking to kill Joker? And that he's open to death threats? Wow. Wow. Jason damn Todd. Thanks for the whiplash, asshole. And for the laugh because ngl this did make me cackle:

Batman/Catwoman: The Gotham War: Red Hood

[guccifrog]

MEDDLE ABOUT P3

TW: this chapter mentions SA please don't read if you don't feel comfortable

band!chris sturniolo X reader

warnings: swearing/ band chris/sa

ᵗʰⁱˢ ⁱˢ ᵐʸ ᵒʳⁱᵍⁱⁿᵃˡ ʷᵒʳᵏ// ᵈᵒ ⁿᵒᵗ ˢᵗᵉᵃˡ ᵒʳ ᶜᵒᵖʸ

˚ ༘ ·˚꒰Meddle about-chase atlantic꒱ ₊˚ˑ

1:35 ━━━●───── 3:47

↻ ◁ II ▷ ↺

↠ⁿᵉˣᵗ ˢᵒⁿᵍ ↺ ʳᵉᵖᵉᵃᵗ ⊜ ᵖᵃᵘˢᵉ

ʷᵉˡˡ ᶜᵒᵐᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ᵍᵉᵗ ⁱᵗ ⁿᵒʷ

part 2

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y/n's pov

"Have a good day and- and oh you better be on time tomorrow!"My boss's words echoed as I walked out of the store, swinging my tote bag over my shoulder. I let out a sigh, the cold air stinging my cheeks. It was only 6:00 PM, but I had asked him for an early dismissal since I still had to get ready for that stupid party tonight. Ugh, why did I ever agree to go in the first place?

I hurried down the busy street, weaving between people who seemed to be in just as much of a hurry as I was. The thought of that stupid party only made me more impatient, but I knew I had to go. I really regret saying yes but I can't cancel on Liv last minute. She'd kill me.

Thirty minutes later, I finally made it home, my shoulders slumped in exhaustion. The moment I stepped inside our tiny apartment, I kicked off my shoes and collapsed onto my bed, too tired to even change out of my clothes. A quick glance at the clock on the wall told me I had exactly an hour to get ready.

I pushed myself up off the bed, wincing as I stretched out my stiff muscles. I groaned and walked over to my tiny closet, rummaging through the hangers and mess of clothes until I found something halfway decent to wear.

I didn't want to go all out but I also didn't want to look like a total loser. After much thinking, I settled on a black mini skirt with some ripped fishnets and a sleeveless band shirt that I cropped, and finally my platform dr. martens. Not my best outfit but it would have to do. I quickly straightened my hair and threw on some makeup.

"y/nnnn" Olivia called from the living room. I let out a small groan, knowing that meant she was already waiting for me. "Just give me a minute!" I yelled back, quickly putting my rings, earrings, and necklaces on. Once I was finally satisfied with my appearance, I grabbed my purse and jacket and headed out of the room.

As I stepped into the living room, I could already see the impatient look on Olivia's face. She was sitting on the couch, her posture perfect as always, wearing a fitted red dress that hugged her curves just right. Her long brown hair was pulled back into a sleek ponytail and she had a pair of black heels dangling from her fingers. "About time!" she said with a roll of her eyes. "You took forever."

I rolled my eyes playfully" Shut up I just came back from work" I said as I walked over to the couch and sat down next to her. "Besides, we have to be fashionably late "I added with a grin. Olivia laughed and smacked my arm lightly.

We were interrupted by a knock on the door. "Are you ladies ready ?." Said a deep masculine voice. I glanced at Olivia, who nodded, indicating that it was indeed her boyfriend. We both stood up and headed towards the door.

I let Olivia open the door, not really wanting to deal with him right now. As soon as she did, her boyfriend, Alex, stepped inside, his green eyes scanning me up and down. Ew.

I always hated Alex. From the moment Olivia introduced him as her boyfriend, there was just something wrong about him. Maybe it was the way he always looked at me like I was a piece of cake, or maybe it was the way he treated Liv like shit, but she was too blind to see. Whatever it was, I couldn't help but feel uncomfortable around him.

As he stepped into the apartment, I glanced at Olivia, trying to gauge her reaction to his presence. She was always so damn good at pretending like everything was okay, but I could see the tension in her shoulders and the way she bit her bottom lip.

"You look amazing, Liv," he said, his voice smooth as silk. "As always." He gave her a quick kiss, making my skin crawl.

"Thanks, Alex," Olivia replied, her voice a little shaky." Let's go" I added, trying to break the awkward silence. "We're gonna be late." I grabbed my jacket from the couch and shrugged it on, hoping to hurry this whole thing along. Olivia shot me a grateful look before turning back to her boyfriend.

We got inside Alex's car, I sat in the back, as usual, and Olivia in the passenger seat. I glanced out the window as Alex drove, trying to ignore the uncomfortable silence that settled between us.

After a fifteen-minute drive, Alex finally pulled up in front of a fancy looking house. I sighed, knowing that this was going to be a long night. As we got out of the car, I couldn't help but feel a little out of place. The other girls here were dressed in designer dresses and heels, while I looked like I was going to a rave.

We walked up to the door and Alex knocked, waiting for someone to answer. A moment later, a tall, blonde girl with a smile on her face opened the door. "Alex, you're here. Come in." She stepped aside, motioning for us to enter. I shot Olivia a look as we walked in, feeling even more uncomfortable.

The house was huge, with high ceilings and expensive looking art on the walls. There were so many people here, all of them dressed to impress. I felt even more out of place than before. I tried to stay close to Olivia, hoping she would make me feel better about being here.

A few minutes passed, and I found myself getting bored. This party is lame as fuck. Olivia seemed to be having fun, talking to some of her friends, and laughing, but I was regretting coming here. I mean, I know I should support her and all, but I just can't stand this.

"Liv," I said, trying to get her attention. "Can we, like, go somewhere else or something? I'm kind of bored here." Olivia glanced over at me, a frown tugging at her lips. "Okay, hold on a second," she said before turning back to her friends.

I sighed in frustration as I waited for Olivia to finish her conversation. This party was even worse than I thought. The music was awful, the people were fake, and I was starting to feel dizzy.

I decided to go get a drink since Olivia was taking forever. I made my way through the crowd, trying not to trip over my feet in these ridiculous shoes, and finally reached the kitchen.

A group of people were already gathered around the counter chatting and laughing. I stood in the back, trying to decide what I wanted to drink, I grabbed a glass and filled it with ice, then poured some soda into it. I wasn't in the mood to drink alcohol tonight.

Just as I was about to turn back with my drink, someone bumped into me, causing me to spill soda all over my shirt. I let out a frustrated groan, already hating this night even more.

"alright motherfucker" I turned around, ready to give the person who bumped into me a piece of my mind, but the words died on my lips when I saw who it was.

"I'm so sorry- wait y/n ?"

"Matt ?" I said, my voice small. He looked just as shocked as I felt. "What are you doing here?" I asked.

He smiled. "Lucas invited the whole group" He shrugged before looking down at my now ruined shirt. " Shit..um..I'm so sorry about your shirt" He said softly.

"It's fine don't worry about it," I forced a smile, trying to play it cool.

"Matt what the fuck is taking you so long…y/n?!" A voice called out behind him, causing me to glance over my shoulder.

"hey ?" I said looking at Chris who looked so confused. "What are you doing here ?" he asked now standing next to Matt. "I'm just here with my roommate…uh…she's right there I guess," I said pointing at Olivia. She was still talking to her friends and didn't seem to notice.

"Ohhhh, I see…well…um…good to see you…I guess?" Chris said nervously, clearly not sure what to do with the situation. Matt was now talking to Nate who was standing behind Chris.

I glanced down at my shirt. I was wearing nothing but my bra under it, but they got wet as well and It was getting uncomfortable. "fuck" I muttered under my breath, and Chris seemed to notice. "you alright?" he asked, looking genuinely concerned. "Yeah, I'm fine." I lied, not wanting to make a scene.

"Wait why is your shirt wet ?" Chris asked, now looking really concerned. I glanced down at my shirt again, feeling a little self-conscious. "It's nothing," I said, trying to sound more confident than I felt. "It's just a shirt, I'm sure it'll dry off soon." I forced a small laugh, but he didn't seem to buy it.

"Here," he said suddenly pulling his sweater over his head, revealing a black tank top underneath. "Take this." He held the sweater out to me.

"Chris it's fine really…" I started to say, but he cut me off.

"No, it's not. You need it, and it's not like I'm cold or anything. Take it." He insisted, I hesitated for a moment before finally taking the sweater from him. "Thanks, I appreciate it." I smiled softly.

He nodded, seeming satisfied." I'll go find a bathroom to change into this. Thanks again, Chris." I said, and he smiled warmly. "No problem, I'll be waiting for you here when you get back." I nodded and made my way through the crowd.

After a few minutes of searching, I finally found a bathroom, just as I was about to twist the doorknob, the door opened from inside. And as if this night wasn't already bad enough, it was none other than Alex. "Oh hey, fancy seeing you here," he said, a smirk playing on his lips.

"Alex if you're done using the bathroom please move aside so I can get in," I said, annoyance clear in my voice. He chuckled leaning on the door frame.

"What's the hurry, Y/N? We're all friends here, aren't we?" He smirked, his eyes roaming over my body. I felt a shiver run down my spine. I gritted my teeth, trying to keep my anger in check. "I'm not your friend," I said. "And I'm in a bit of a hurry."

He laughed, stepping aside but as I was about to walk past him, he grabbed my wrist. "Oh wait, where's the fire?" he said, pulling me closer. "Let me just check if you're okay…" His other hand reached up and cupped my cheek. I felt trapped, my heart pounding in my chest as I tried to free myself from his grip.

"Let go of me, Alex," I hissed through gritted teeth.

He laughed, tightening his grip on my wrist. "Oh, I'm just trying to help you out. You don't have to be so…aggressive." He leaned in closer, his breath hot against my ear. "You know you want this, Y/N. You've always wanted it."

I tried to wriggle out of his grasp, feeling panic rising up inside me. "Let go of me, Alex," I repeated. I felt so trapped, so helpless.

His grip tightened even more. "Oh, come on," he growled, "you're not going to make this easy, are you?" He leaned in closer than before if that was even possible, his hot breath fanning my cheek.

I couldn't breathe. "I could make you scream," he whispered into my ear, his hand still gripping my wrist so tightly it felt like it was going to break. "I could make you beg"

I felt tears prick my eyes, but I refused to let him see them. I wouldn't give him that satisfaction. "Let me go, Alex," I whispered, trying to keep my voice steady.

He laughed, as his hand trailed down my body, resting on my hip. "You know you want this, Y/N," he whispered in my ear, his breath sending a chill down my spine.

"Alex please let go" I plead, tears starting to fall down my cheeks.

" Alex ? Y/n ?" A voice called out from the end of the hallway and Alex finally let go slightly pushing me.

oh no no no no this can't be happening right now, I thought desperately as I felt the tears running down my cheeks, the warmth of them making me even more miserable.

Olivia stood there, her face flushed and her eyes wide with anger. "What the hell is going on here?" she demanded, her voice shaking with fury.

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lmk what you guys think ♡︎

taglist★

@mattestrella @littlebookworm803 @sturniolooooo @athaliahxoxo @rac00ns-are-c00l4 @crybabycat1 @ducksturniolo @pepsiimaxx @ilovemattsworld @secret-sturniolo @fuckshitslover @lvr-111 @opheliaofficial07 @chrislapdog @therealcody1 @rodysuntiedtie @kiarastromboli @sturnsgasoline @sunsetmill @strniololoverr @sleepysturnss @st7rnioioss

[roseofdarknessblog]

Where it all began (Postwar!Levi Ackerman x Reader)

Word count: 3 723

Disclaimer: english is not my first language, I apologize in advance for any mistakes

Summary: Ten years after the Rumbling, you and Levi return to Paradis, to show your daughter the land you fought so hard for.

This story can be read on its own or as a part of my little post-war series: Learn to live again

Where it all began

„Maybe this wasn't such a good idea,“ Levi said quietly as soon as you disembarked on Paradis. After almost ten years, you were back. On the island, where both your and Levi's life began, where you met, and where you never came back after the Rumbling.

„It's only for two days, darling. We'll be home tomorrow evening,“ you said and kissed the top of his head, looking around the port.

Many things changed since the day you left. You were barely able to recognize this place. Memories of your last battle against the Yeagerists made shivers run down your back. Everything that led up to it, everything that happened after. Falco's first transformation into the Jaw Titan, your arrival to Odiha, Hange's sacrifice, the final battle against Eren...

Coming back felt very strange. Both of you were anxious and full of doubts. Was this truly a good idea? Returning here after so much time? Maybe you should have stayed home, in the little seaside town where you settled down and opened Levi's tea shop. There it was safe. It felt like it. As years passed, that place truly started to feel like home to you.

But here...

„Ugh, finally. I almost puked myself on that stupid boat.“ Both you and Levi looked over at the six-year-old raven-haired girl by his side. Her blue-grey eyes scanned your surroundings quickly before she looked at Levi. „I thought you said sailing is going to be fun, dad.“

You smiled upon hearing her complaints and reached out to stroke her silky hair. It was just like Levi's, although his lately started to turn grey here and there. To him, it was annoying. To you, it became one of his most irresistible features.

„I said it because I didn't want you to worry,“ Levi explained and handed her the little yellow sketchbook she loved carrying around. Until now, he kept it on his lap to have it on hand anytime.

„Too bad, now I don't want to go home by boat.“

„Well, you can always swim,“ you joked.

Little Zoe, who you and Levi named after Hange, gave you an annoyed look and kept on walking. Sometimes, she truly was a carbon copy of her father in every way. From her appearance to her personality. Even if she was only six years old, she already had a huge personality of her own.

„Is it too late to turn back?“

„Levi... it will be fine. We promised her this trip.“ You got hold of his wheelchair once again and followed your daughter, who kept looking around, taking in all the little details.

It was mainly because of her, that you came back to Paradis for a short visit. Even if you and Levi didn't often talk about your past in front of her, other people did. Mainly Jean and Connie, who told her many stories about Paradis and how it once looked. But, of course, they always left out the most gruesome details. So in the end, little Zoe saw this place as an almost ordinary island. Like a place for a little family trip.

Queen Historia knew you and Levi were coming, you let her know in advance. But it didn't seem she wanted to meet you after so many years. And that was more than okay. It was her personal choice. After all, you didn't really come to reconnect with anyone.

„Mikasa!“ your daughter screamed excitedly when she saw her waiting for all of you. But as Zoe was running up to her, somebody suddenly leaped out from behind one of the buildings and grabbed her around the waist. Her little sketchbook fell to the ground as the blond man lifted her up and spun her around, while your daughter screamed out.

Both Zoe and Armin, who you truly didn't expect to be there, were laughing loudly while you and Levi came up to them. Mikasa picked up the girl's sketchbook and held it for her until she was hugging Armin.

„Captain, Y/N... so you really made it,“ Armin said, greeting you both.

You nodded, putting one of your hands on Levi's shoulder squeezing it reassuringly and reminding him, that you're here with him. „We did, yeah. But what are you doing here?“

„Mikasa told me you were coming so I took a little trip, too. But it's just me, Annie's home. She still doesn't like coming here.“

„Don't worry, we understand,“ you assured him with a warm smile.

After you all greeted each other, you followed Armin and Mikasa, talking and simply having a good time. You and Levi still felt a little uneasy, while you were walking through the streets of Shiganshina. The town felt more than foreign to you both. Almost nothing looked the same, not even the people. And for sure, not the military personnel you met here and there.

But there was a bright side to it all, too. Hearing people talk and children laugh, while they were running around, made you smile. Everything looked lively and colorful. You could actually feel all the life pulsing through the streets. Never before did this place make you feel this way. Almost as if nothing ever happened here.

While Zoe was walking between Mikasa and Armin, holding hands with both of them, you kept a few steps behind them. You could see how tensed up Levi's shoulders were. To be honest, you didn't see him like this for a very long time. It almost seemed as if he was expecting something to happen. Just like during old times.

„If I didn't know where we were, I would never say this is Paradis,“ you said after a while in a hushed voice, so only he was able to hear you. „A lot has changed during only ten years.“

Levi nodded without a word, keeping his eyes on your daughter's back. Even if he wasn't like his old self, like the people of this island used to know him, his instincts stayed just as sharp. If needed, he would give his absolute everything to protect his family – you and the little girl both of you loved more than life itself. She was the purest light in your lives and the biggest source of your happiness.

„It feels weirder than I thought it would.“

„In a good or in a bad way?“ you asked him, noticing a little shop you remembered from way back when you were still in the Survey Corps. It was a bakery where you loved getting many different sweet goods. Honestly, it was a miracle that it was still here. „Do you remember this place? I used to buy those little apple pies here. Those you loved eating with your afternoon tea.“

To your surprise, he chuckled. „I could never forget those. But now you make much better ones.“

„After so many years of trying...“ you laughed.

Learning how to cook and bake after the war was one of the hardest things you've ever done. For some reason, you simply couldn't get the hang of it. If it wasn't for Onyankopon and his patience, you would have given up a long time ago. Only thanks to him, you were now able to supply Levi's tea shop with many delicious sweet and savory treats.

You could see a couple of people who seemed to recognize you. Some of them nodded their heads to say a quiet hello, but that was it. Nobody came up to you to have a chat. Thankfully. Not you or Levi felt like talking to anyone. You didn't want them asking any questions. After all, you didn't owe anyone anything. The way you decided to live your life after the war was solely your own personal choice. And it seemed, that not coming back here was the right thing to do. Even if it felt very difficult at the beginning, settling down in the outside world was the wisest choice in the long run.

„Do you want to visit Erwin and Sasha's grave as well?“ Levi asked you, looking over his shoulder. At first, you didn't react. But then you gave a simple nod.

„I can go alone if you don't feel like coming along. You and Zoe can wait for me somewhere,“ you assured him, not wanting to pressure him into anything. Coming here was challenging enough. „I won't be long.“

He quietly shook his head, not voicing his thoughts out loud. So you let him think about it in silence, following Mikasa, Armin, and your daughter to your first and most important stop.

After a short while, you made it to a place, which truly scared you for some reason. It was the tree, under which Eren's remains were buried. A small simple tombstone was set into the ground just by the trunk. For whatever reason, it was suddenly way harder to breathe.

„Long time no see, Eren,“ Levi said, his voice way colder than just a few minutes before. You knew that even after so many years, he sometimes thought about all the things he and Eren never got the chance to discuss.

„I wish this meeting could have looked different,“ you got out with a heavy sigh, taking the small bouquet of white lilies from Levi's lap which you got from a flower shop along the way. But actually going up to the tombstone, reading his name carved into the cold stone... „I'm sorry it had to end like this.“ Closing your eyes to breathe through your emotions, you left the lilies resting against the stone and walked back to Levi and Zoe, who also came to stand next to her father. The little detail of them holding hands made you feel a little better.

A few tears pooled in your eyes when you looked over at Mikasa and Armin. Seeing just the two of them, without Eren by their side felt so strange and painful. Since you got to know them, they were always together. Always the three of them – Mikasa and Armin doing everything to protect Eren and help him, when he needed it the most. Your heart hurt for them in a way you weren't even able to express through words. It was a pain you tried to bury deep down in your heart and soul, for the past ten years. But now, it all came to the surface, threatening to suffocate you and make you break down in tears over how everything turned out.

„It's a shame we didn't get to meet,“ Zoe said suddenly shocking all four of you. Mikasa was probably the most surprised one. „Jean and Connie sometimes tell me funny stories about you.“ She was looking at the tombstone, almost as if she was talking directly to Eren.

To her, Eren wasn't a monster like the rest of the world saw him. You all spared her the horrible details that led up to his death. It was much better to do it like that. She was still too little and innocent to know the truth. Later, you'll slowly start explaining everything to her. But until then, it was much better to let her believe, that the world wasn't such an ugly place.

For a while, you all stayed quiet and just watched the white lilies. Nobody knew what to say, what or how to feel. Not even Mikasa and Armin, who surely spent a lot of time here. Zoe was the first one to break the grim atmosphere. She took her little sketchbook from Levi, sat down under the tree, and started sketching the view you had over the little town underneath the hill.

„How's it going? Do you like the view?“ you asked after a few minutes and sat down beside your daughter. Levi was talking with Mikasa and Armin, so you decided to let them be.

„Yeah, it's very nice here. I loved how the town looked, everything was so colorful. The people looked happy,“ she said excitedly, showing you her drawing proudly. It looked just like a creation of a six-year-old. „But those men from the military seemed scary.“

On your way up here, you met a group of men from the military. All they did, was patroling around the town, making sure everything was in order. However, they made you feel a bit uneasy. Their new uniforms, the way they carried a gun with them... It wasn't comparable to the times when you casually met members of the Garrison or the Military Police in the streets. Or maybe it was just because you were here as an ordinary civilian, not a member of the military like during old times.

„You don't have to fear them, darling. They're not going to hurt you.“

„Did you and dad wear uniforms like them?“

You shook your head, running your fingers along her braided hair. „Not entirely, but they were a little similar.“ Going into details wasn't necessary, so you simply smiled at her and stroked her cheek.

„I can't really imagine this whole place with those huge Walls you told me about. Didn't everything seem... uhm...“

„Suffocating? Cramped? Restricting?“ Zoe nodded, closing her sketchbook and leaving her pencil inside, to mark the page where she was drawing. ���It did, but... we didn't know anything else. Not really. You see... when we as the Scouting Legion went out beyond the Walls, we had our duty. We had work to do, so we never really had time to just stop and admire how different everything seemed. How big and free the world there was.“

Zoe knew about the Titans – briefly, but she did. She knew they were the reason why you and Levi lived behind the Walls before the final war. For her, it was only natural to wonder, what a life like that must have felt like. She never had to experience such a thing. No, she was free to go wherever she wanted. Basically, there were no limits to her curiosity. No man-eating monsters, that would hunt her down if she wasn't careful enough.

„Me and your dad... we were more than grateful for what we had up here. The place where we grew up was much, much worse than living behind the Walls.“

She didn't know nearly anything about the Underground, where both you and Levi grew up. There was simply no way to explain it to her. So all she knew, was the bare minimum – about a poor city under the shiny new capital of Paradis. There wasn't anything nice to be said about that place.

While Zoe kept asking you more questions, you looked over your shoulder at Levi, Armin, and Mikasa. They were still quietly talking, not paying attention to you and Zoe. You wanted to grant them privacy, so you kept the little girl busy for as long as possible.

From time to time, you looked over at Eren's tombstone. For some reason, you kept wondering what would you say to Eren, if he was here. If the war ended differently and you had the chance to talk to him about everything that happened. Even after so many years, you wished that you could have done something more. Anything to bring him back from the darkness that took him away from his friends.

What got you away from your own memories, was when Mikasa and Armin called for Zoe. The little girl didn't hesitate, she jumped up and ran to them, excitedly asking what are they going to do. As you watched them, Levi slowly wheeled himself next to you.

With a tiny smile, you moved a bit closer and still sitting in the grass, you leaned your head against his leg. The fingers of his left hand slipped into your hair, rubbing your scalp just the way you liked it. And just the way Zoe used to like when she was a baby. Many times, when she was crying or fussing, Levi used to soothe her this way.

„Did she have many questions?“ Levi asked after a moment of silence between the two of you.

„Quite a few, yeah. I guess she couldn't really grasp the reality of our lives behind the Walls. She said it looks much prettier now, without them,“ you chuckled and looked up at Levi. Up here, where nobody was around, he seemed a bit calmer. And you did too. Being away from the prying eyes of the islanders felt liberating in the strangest way possible. „I'm not sure if coming here was the right call, but at least we did what we promised her.“

Levi nodded, still playing with your hair. „Let's hope that this one visit will be enough for her. Not that there are many places we could visit without seeing those fools in uniforms. I don't want to see them around you or Zoe, we had enough of that life. What's going on here, is not our business anymore.“

„It's not, we fought and sacrificed enough,“ you agreed, taking Levi's hand out of your hair and interlocking your fingers. To some, it may have sounded selfish. But to you, those were valid reasons. After everything that happened, you and Levi deserved to live out the rest of your lives in peace.

As the ship kept moving forward and Paradis was becoming smaller and smaller on the horizon, tears started to pool in your eyes. Leaving once again was heartbreaking. It made you feel so many different emotions all at once. While Mikasa and Armin stayed there, you, Levi, and Zoe were headed back home.

You stayed the night over at Mikasa's place and headed to the graveyard first thing in the morning. While she and Armin stayed with Zoe, you and Levi went to find the graves of your long-lost friends. Before that, you got more white lilies, because you didn't want to come empty-handed. For almost an hour, you just walked around in the company of your memories, looking for many familiar names.

„She's out cold.“ Levi smirked and kissed the top of Zoe's head, who was cuddled up in his lap. One of his arms was protectively wrapped around her, while she was resting her head against his chest. In her sleep, she was hugging the little yellow sketchbook as if it was he favorite stuffed animal. 

„Makes me wonder how she spent the night.“

„I heard her talking with Armin until early in the morning. About stars, marine life, and such nerdy things.“ With a smile, you took off your cardigan and covered your daughter with it, since the breeze was a little cold on the ship's deck. „He was telling her about how he imagined the world outside the Walls when he was her age.“

After all... maybe this trip wasn't such a horrible idea. Your daughter had a good time, she saw Mikasa and Armin, and she was finally able to see the land you and Levi fought so hard to protect. She got the chance to see where it all began. The big love story of her parents. And also all the tales and stories Jean, Connie, and the others kept telling her.

„She seemed happy,“ you said in a loving tone, stroking your daughter's hair. She looked so lovely when she was asleep. Just like her father, when he was peacefully resting in your arms during long nights.

„But I guess we didn't.“

„No, but... did you expect anything else? For us, this wasn't an exciting trip to a seemingly perfect island. It was more of a walk down the memory lane. With not-so-happy memories,“ you said, bending down to give Levi a kiss. „But in a way, we both needed this.“

„Yeah, to remember never to come here again,“ Levi scoffed.

„Why? I liked the island, it was very pretty,“ Zoe suddenly said in a sleepy voice, her eyes still half-closed. „Do you miss the way it looked in the past?“ she asked, blinking a few times and looking up at both you and Levi.

„Yes,“ Levi said. Your right hand came to rest on his shoulder, while you waited for what he was going to say to the little girl next. „I don't miss the Titans at all, but I sometimes do miss the old times, when we lived behind the Walls.“

„Why, dad?“

Stroking her hair, his lips pressed a loving kiss to Zoe's forehead, before he looked over at you. „Because I miss the people who lived there with us. Many of them are not here anymore, and seeing Paradis without the Walls just reminded me of how many years since their deaths passed.“ He said it more than perfectly, describing just what you felt as well.

„Life was hard back then, just like we've always told you when you asked about our past. But every day was a little brighter thanks to our friends and comrades,“ you said, kissing the top of Levi's head.

„But you always say they're looking after us from there,“ Zoe said and pointed at the sky, which was slowly starting to catch warm shades of yellow and orange from the setting sun. „Hange and Erwin, and Sasha, and Furlan with Isabel.“

„They are, of course, they are,“ you assured her in a loving tone and looked up at the sky with your daughter in a foolish attempt to spot your long-lost friends smiling down at your little family.

„We just sometimes wish they could be here with us in person,“ Levi added in a calm tone and also looked up, hugging Zoe a little tighter. „Look, you can see a couple of stars already.“ As he pointed to the sky to distract her, your little girl smiled excitedly and started telling him a bunch of new things about the night sky she probably heard from Armin last night.

While Levi was listening to her every word, he glanced over at you. Into your eyes, which were full of tears. Tears of happiness over the fact, that this was how your life turned out and that Levi with Zoe were your beloved family. Through all the pain you had to endure in the past, you were more than grateful, that in the end, you had everything you ever wanted and dreamed about – a happy family with the love of your life, living in a safe world.

[blue2black]

I’m obsessed ngl.

Here’s some more COD incorrect quotes based on the game of Class Of 09. Both of them:

(Also, Cheshire is my COD OC, she only appears once.)

——————————

Gaz: You’re a whore.

Graves: Excuse me? I have a girlfriend and a purity ring!

Gaz: For real? How do I get one?

Graves: Little late for you.

Gaz: No, it’s never too late to have your girlfriend fuck every person but you.

Graves: Ugh, I don’t need to take this! I’m on the honor roll, something you’ll never do.

Gaz: Bitch, why don’t you shut the fuck up before I slit your throat and watch the honor roll out?

Graves: Are you threatening me?? 😡

Gaz: No, I’m hitting on you, flash me a titty bitch. 🙄

——————————

Soap: Fuck that shit! Do you even know how I got involved with this bitch?!

Shepherd: Language.

Soap: Do you even know how I got involved with this hoe?!

Shepherd: Slightly better.

——————————

Laswell: Actually, I may or may not have been covered in baby oil…

Gaz: Ugh…well, I guess racism wins.

*silence*

Ghost: Can we see the pictures?

Laswell: Get out.

——————————

Graves: I’m getting real tired of you picking on me! It won’t be so fun when the shoes on the other foot!

Rudy: Are you threatening me? Are you threatening me in SKETCHERS?

——————————

Shepherd: Is there something between the two of you that you may not realize?

Farah: What does any of that even mean?

Valaria: He’s asking if we’re lesbians.

——————————

Shepherd: You’re excused, cap’n. But work on that foul language.

Price, under his breath while walking away: Work on getting a fucking therapist, holy shit.

——————————

How Ghost’s father could’ve died:

Ghost: And get this!

Ghost: His suicide note was stuck to the fridge with a Cookie Monster magnet.

Ghost: All he wrote on it: SIMON’S FAULT.

Ghost: I’m Simon by the way, hi!—WHAT THE FUCK DID I DO TO HIM?!

——————————

Graves, walking away: I hate talking, talking’s for gay people…

Gaz: What a theory.

——————————

Laswell, furiously knocking on Price’s door: Come on, come oon…trying not to get blamed for a hate crime…!

Price, opens the door: I’m watching football, this better be really fucking good.

Laswell: It’s actually really bad!

Price: Oh, well see you later.

——————————

Gaz: Dude, we'll look the other way on your minor fetish and get you a pizza, okay?

Cheshire: Does he have a major fetish?

Gaz, looking at Cheshire: No, his major fetish is a minor fetish.

Cheshire: So, what's the fetish?

Gaz: I told you, a minor fetish.

Cheshire: I know it's a minor fetish, what's the fetish for?

Gaz: Minors.

Cheshire: Like, guys that dig coal?

Gaz: Not those minors.

Cheshire: So, shitty baseball players?

Gaz: What? No!

Cheshire: Then what's the fetish??

Gaz: ...

——————————

Soap's mom: Excuses, excuses!

Soap: Weren't you supposed to be happy or something?

Soap's mom: Ugh...I'm gonna go up to my room and read up how to fold the pastrami.

Soap's mom, walking away: You better find a way OUT of those remedial classes!

Soap: You better find a real fuckin' job, bitch.

——————————

Shepherd: What's your T-cell count?

Gaz: Uh.

Alex: I-I don't get it; we don't take shop.

Shepherd: You don't take shop...?

Alex: Yeah, they use T-cells in shop class, what's that have to do with AIDS?

Gaz: That's a T-square, Alex--FUCK!

Alex: What? No--if you knew why'd you look at me??

Gaz: I didn't know how much we were supposed to say!

Alex: How the fuck would I know?!

Gaz: YOU SAID WE HAD AIDS!

——————————

Soap's mom, walking in: Ugh, today was hard but still rewarding.

Soap: What was?

Soap's mom: My day working at the Deli?

Soap: Oh...I wasn't asking, but alright.

Soap's mom: You don't wanna hear what happened?

Soap: I think I'm good.

——————————

Valeria: There's something I've been wanting to say lately.

Alejandro: Oh, what's that?

Valeria: The n-word.

——————————

Valeria: For a week it’d be kinda fun. You wanna be sexed up abusive lesbians?

Farah: Fuck no.

Valeria: Why not?

Farah: ‘Cause you’d be doing all the abusing.

Valeria: Oh like what? 😒

Farah: Just weird shit. You’d like…put a cigarette out on my neck and lick the burn mark.

Valeria: …so, you wanna try it?

Farah: No!

——————————

Norris, walking away: Let’s see how the General deals with your abundance of comebacks.

Ghost: Soap, we’re not even a week in and you’re getting sent to the General’s office.

Soap: New record, don’t be jealous.

——————————

Gaz: For real, I don’t like how he talks to you, Simon. You’re actually like, really cool and smart and you should be treated as such.

Ghost, flushing: Wow, that’s uh…

Gaz: What’s wrong?

Ghost: People tell me that all the time and I just say “I know”. But now that you are saying it, I forgot how to take an actual compliment.

Gaz: We’re friends, don’t worry about it.

…

Ghost: Are you trying to have sex with me?

Gaz: Not really.

Ghost: Yeah, I have no idea how to process this.

Gaz: Does the General ever compliment you?

Ghost: No. 🙄

Gaz: ‘Cause he can’t appreciate what he has..and seriously, like, seriously, Ghost…

Gaz: If I ever see him talk to you like that again I will rip his beating heart out and hand it to you on a silver platter.

Ghost: 😳…a-and you don’t wanna have sex with me?

[smoothpowerforthestreets]

❤️‍🔥🗡️🍸🌹I TRIED POPULAR FEMME FATALE TIPS FOR A YEAR🌹🍸🗡️❤️‍🔥

Hello everyone! I always have been fascinated by the femme fatale energy and I was so obsessed as a kid with femme fatales like Ava Gardner, Marilyn Monroe, Gilda by Rita Hayworth and some characters by Angelina Jolie or Penelope Cruz.

I never tried to tap into the femme fatale energy because I always thought that I didn't fit the "aesthetic", then I read Ava Gardner's biography how she made womanizer Sinatra go suicidal for her and I noticed that femme fatale energy isn't about looks or aesthetic (partially) but your attitude, energy and self love. So I started to get all the information I could about femme fatales and these are the most popular tips I've tried:

💋 Let them pursue. Let them show you how much are they interested in you and how far would they go for your attention.

I think this one it's not exclusive about FemF it's something that every girl should do. It's really simple: if they really want you they'll move mountains for you, and girl, don't even think it's because you set your standards too high because it's the bare minimum. Stop being in situationships where it's very clear that he doesn't want you, I'm sorry but it's really pathetic.

My experience: I've been applying this boundary for a long time now and it's the most effective way to see who actually wants you. Why? Because it's too simple, if they want to they will. This saved me a lot of situationships and giving access and power to someone who doesn't want me. The results are a little annoying because let's be real, boys🤡, they always come back so when I say it's annoying it's because it's ridiculous to see them get confused and then pursue you when it's too late. AND LET ME TELL YOU, when I put a cross on your name there's no way to erase it (metaphorically). Ugh, really why do they do that? They make clear that they don't want you and when you cut them off they decide to come back in the way you seem to want. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE, don't go back to them, if they really wanted you that badly they would never have put you in that position.

💋 Don't be impressed by the things they think can get you. I'm talking about superficial things like physical appearance, fame, money, properties, cars, luxury lifestyle, etc. Please I know everyone loves money but believe me when I say it doesn't get you anywhere mentally if you don't have your shit together, don't let desire for rich appearances guide you to shitty men just because they can provide money. You should be able to afford your things so you don't have to be waiting for a man like a poor dog.

My experience: Girl I'm going to spill some tea about this one. I had two famous men asking me on a date, one of them I no longer speak to him and the other one is currently pursuing me like crazy just because he saw I was not amused about the luxury things he was bragging. We're friends for now because I don't trust him lol but he tries every now and then to ask me on a date. Girl trust me it's not that rare to get that type of men, almost every friend of mine has been pursued by a man in power.

💋 Trust in the feminine power. Trust in the power that a smile or a gaze has, learn from the best: Angelina Jolie, Marilyn Monroe, Ava Gardner... A subtle way to let a man know that you like him and you can have him going all over you. How many times a man has approached you just because you looked at him? That's the power you have, women have that power.

My experience: Not so long ago I had a thing with a man and somehow we lost contact but we have a friend in common so we see each other often. The other day I tried this technique to see if a gaze was enough to let him know that I'm interested and it's true, I looked at him directly into his eyes and that was enough to have him the rest of the night right by my side.

💋Red nails theory. The color red is said to represent passion, love and sensuality. The red nail theory got viral on TikTok because a girl said that the reason she attracted more men with red nails was because they saw a lot of red nails while growing up.

My experience: I got my nails done red and I don't think much changed. I think red is a color that generally attracts men but I don't think it's something exclusive for nails. A red lipstick or dress will always be on point.

💋 Be cold af. Not every time but when he does something to annoy you don't react. Could be he's trying to make you jealous, to see how you react or how much you care about him. DON'T REACT, even if it's killing you inside. Act like you couldn't care less and move on. He still flirts to other girls? Then that means you're not in a committed relationship and you can flirt with whoever you want to too.

My experience: This one is sooooo fun to apply and I like to add a little spice and mirror their behaviour. Because when they do something I don't like I usually cut them off and that's it, but when I know they did it to hurt me I like to have my revenge. You've met your match bitch.

I was getting to know this guy who made very clear that he enjoyed single life so I did too and when he saw me on another date he went nuts and stopped seeing other girls. But one day he got angry because I said that I found attractive one of his friends and that night he started a little flirt in front of me with a girl so I just said I'm going to say hello to someone and I went to do the same with his friend. He immediately came so angry, asked for a word alone and told me to stop messing around. He asked me to be in a committed relationship the next day and that was the last time I saw him. I know it seems so toxic but I didn't want a relationship with him and he tried to hurt me so idc.🤷‍♀️

Sorry if you see some spelling mistakes, english is not my first language!

[billyfazworth]

Deep Below Ground - Part 2: Taken

By William F. Fazworth.

Before I begin, ABOUT DAMN TIME!

Hey y'all, it's been awhile since I continued my Minch (Maritza X Finch) fic set in my HN AU, Masks of The Ravens.

As a small recap, last time in the Prologue, both of our loving crows have been taken below after discovering that Mya is most likely dead.

For more info, go and read it!

But now it's time to see what happens to our dynamic duo as they awake...

Deep Below Ground.

????, October 7th 1996:

"Mari? Mari?!"

The echoing voice buzzes through the mind of Maritza Esposito, her head aching from... what happened actually? The girl wondered that as she tried to sit up right, she could slowly begin to make out the buzzing sound as the lone lightbulb, the soft floor really being a mattress, and the face in front of her... it was Finch.

"Mari are you okay?!"

"Ugh... what happened?"

"He... he caught us."

Maritza sprung back to life almost as if her reflexes demanded it, the revelation, it can't be possible?! It... it's all coming back to her, the bloody shovel, the loud bang.... the memorial dedicated to Mya.

Mr. Peterson must've killed her.

"NO!" Maritza screamed, "H-How long have I been out?!" She asked Finch, grabbing his arms in a panic, she quickly answered "I-I think six hours?? I-I don't know, I'm losing track." He added on, "I don't know why we even ended up here together, maybe the others are together too?" She asked with a sense of desperation in her mouth.

Maritza on the other hand was still in disbelief, she failed, she failed her mission to free the others, to save Nicky, to save the other Peterson kids... the only thing she succeeded at was finding out Mya's fate. "Wait what about Ivan? Is he captured?" Mari asked, Finch shook her head "Not a clue, all I know is that we're stuck right here and I'm starving, all I hope is that Peterson doesn't leave us to starve-"

The door suddenly swings open and in came their captor, Mr. Peterson.

The large man was intimidating, his face almost shrouded by the shadow lying outside that door before he entered the basement door. Maritza got on her feet and held Finch back, ready to shield her. That was when she noticed what was on the man's hands, a tray with plates of what appear to be pieces of chicken, there was also bottles of water on said tray. The man simply placed the tray down, saying "Your food for the night, that's all." He then simply walked back into the darkness, Mari tried to seize the opportunity to run out as he turned his back, but she was too late, the door shutting in her face.

"HEY!" She screamed, pounding her fists on the door "LET US OUT!" She screamed whilst continuing to bang on the door. As if like clockwork, she could hear a sound come from behind the walls, it was... carnival music.

"It's starting again."

Maritza turned to Finch, seeing her look almost frustrated "I thought that music was gone for good." The young girl looked at her friend with a confused expression, has this music been playing for awhile? And why does it seem so... familiar? "How long has this been playing?" She asked.

Finch slid down by a nearby wall onto the floor "Forever." She muttered, her hands practically covering his ears at this point "I just want this music to stop, it was fine at first but now it's just irritating." He added on. As this went on, Maritza looked around the room a bit further, there was a small porta potty in the corner, straight out of the school's outdoor yard. There's windows and outside them were drawings of a fake outside, lit up by some sort of glow. And of course there was the mattresses on the floor, each containing a pillow and blanket, though not covered in sheets.

"This... this is a fake home, isn't it?"

The realization dawned on the two young teens, combining all the aspects with the fact that they were being fed? Peterson wasn't kidnapping kids to kill them, he's kidnapping them to force them to live down here.

Maritza grabbed the tray of food and walked over to Finch "There's no way we're leaving, at least, not now. We might as well make ourselves company." She offered the latter the tray of food, Finch nodded, with Maritza sitting by next to him.

The two looked at each other as they took a bite.

Wondering what will happen to them.

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

Thank you all once again for reading this, sorry for the late update, hopefully college won't get in my way for the rest of the series.

We're pretty much halfway through and I hope your ready for the next one, though I must warn you.

It really isn't for the faint of heart.

[carmenized-onions]

Yap sheet, live and in color!!

I wrote this as I was reading it, so it very well may be incoherent since I read the chapter almost immediately upon waking up. 😍 OH OH OH before i forget this is going to be really long, so my apologies, BUT !! Can i get put on the taglist? Pretty please 😛 .... wait adding this later I think im already on it 🤔

1.) I can taste what is happening here, i think, and I swear to god, if it ends up that he calls tony, calls ME THE READER, a distraction, I'll cry. Onion, you will have made me cry. Sigh. A dish getting sent back making him all wiggy does make a lot of sense, though, I fear.

2.) "He’s not meant to be a good person. He’s meant to be a good chef." :< i hate u that's so sad and isolating, and so on the nose for Carmy :<

-side note idk why but this :< and :> have become my absolute favorite lil emojis lately so silly

3.) Cue my eyes widening all comical and shit cause ONION "you should be dead" NOOOOOOOOOO L major L cause wtf

This yap sheet is gonna be mega long if i keep doing it like this, I'm ngl. But i think you'll enjoy it, so I might keep it up

4.) Yes, match our clothes to Carmy's eyes... or whatever !!!

5.) Poor Fak. "So Fak is gonna be our server?" "Yessir." "He any good?" "No Sir." And that's so real, actually. Okay, just read more, and Neil really is a small train wreck, and "Oh wow" definitely made me giggle

6.) I feel like im taking notes for class here, and i usually hate taking notes, so that's how you know you've got me by the balls with this story, Onion. Also, this is its own point bc ik ur gonna reply to these in order like this so this is me telling u that if u don't want me to send these this long i will not be offended cause this is gonna be so much. ALSO did this just for u bc I'll see in other asks when ur lamenting abt people not pointing out certain things (I TOTALLY get that btw) and I usually notice them but forget them in my yap sheet cause i do them after the fact so :> also this point is so long now okay this backfired on me.

7.) NOT TONY REFERRING TO THEIR RELATIONSHIP AS A RESERVATION thats so silly. I love that Fak was all. Oh, is that Carmy's jacket?? And Richie jumps straight to oh yall are fucking. NOT A SEX PAINTING OHMYGOD

8.) :< that's all I have to say about that sequence with Carmy that made me very :<

9.) Anyway, um Tony screaming at the sight of him is also very :< also him immediately thinking he is the problem or like the self loathing taking over is also so :< bc like UGH this poor man I really just want to give him the biggest hug in the world. But in Tony's defense, I, too, would get jumpscared by slicked back hair Carmen. I mean, I guess that tracks since Tony IS me, technically.

10.) Okay Fak appears like he's going to be this bad the whole time so unless theres smth specific to say, I'll just cap the Fak interaction here and say I feel for my man Neil bc I, too, am a very slow learner and I would probably also fall flat on my face just like this.

11.) Richie is so dear to me as a character, like that man held everything together in his two hands and got zero appreciation for it. And like, that is something I relate so heavily to. Richie watching Tiff move on must be so :< even if he does seem like he's made his peace with it

12.) Okay, so i just read for a lil while, but um. CARMY'S OLD BOSS SHOWING UP??? DIABOLICAL!! YOU ARE AN EVIL ONION FR like that's so vile. Also I will say that the syd comforting is so slay. Tony just going immediately into caretaker mode is so me actually

13.) THE RACIALLY TARGETED MILES MORALES BANDAIDS !!!!

14.) Anyway I love Syd and Tony and the let me love you is so URGHHHHH i just love them sm

15.) Okay so I hate that fucking guy but ,,, GO TONY !! Love that she basically just handed them their asses by being smart n shit.

16.) RATATOUILLE MENTION !!! Love

17.) Okay the fact that tony questions whether or not Carmen would defend her over impressing chef asshole is so UGH UGH UGH makes my chest all tight bc like, yes, I think he would, i think he absolutely would choose Tony over all of it but... then again.... UGH

18.) OH MY GODDDDDDDD CARMY WROTE TONY A NOTE FOR HER MEAL THATS SO. ITS SO. OH MY GODDD. Even when hes being a grade a dickface hes so sweet :<

19.) LOVE??? Yeah im so gone goodbye

20.) Oh im so dead the moment she got the plate I knew she was gonna give it to chef asshole but STILL IT STILL HURTS

21.) Okay yes im like very :< abt the nat and carmy convo but what is this did mikey have a lil folder abt chip tony like a journal type shit wtf onion

22.) NO THIS IS TERRIBLE NEWS CARMY THINKING SHE DATED MIKEY??? NOOOOO THIS IS EVEN WORSE ACTUALLY THIS IS SO BAD??

23.) I hate you. Thats all 🫶 that cliffhanger was abhorrent

No but fr that was phenomenal and i really hope you like this ugh. Ur writing so fucking good im like crying at the optometrist rn

ALRIGHT SPOILERS AHEAD IF YOU SKIPPED TO MY ANSWER N DIDN'T READ THE ASK !!! goin' under the keep reading for this one. Will this be the only ask I get through before I have to go run errands? We'll find out. Will there be a snapshot of the next chapter under the cut as a little treat? I honestly don't know, I'll have to look to see if there's anything I can give you that doesn't give away everything lmao.

Before we start though, I do want to note somewhere, I have finished the draft for the next chapter-- I usually don't do to much rework at this point, but I do think it'll need some decent edits-- It's very hard to write like, after a fight, yknow? Like I'm trying to do a very organic aftermath, as well, it's not just a complete cliffhanger, where I can time skip the awkwardness-- And that's like. Woo. Need to revise and make sure it's good.

Anyways, this is all to say:

Thank God I split this from the last chapter, eh? Almost dropped fucking 20k straight on your heads like a comical boulder.

Anyways time to actually REVIEW THIS WONDERFUL YAP SHEET LETS GO

YES you're on the taglist and never apologize for yapping, I do it all the time. And I love to be yapped back to. I know how much work goes into taking notes, so it genuinely really warms my fuckin' heart that you'd take that time for me thank you my love!!

OOH. I think bro gets very close to saying distraction, I think he says that he gets distracted, but never actually calls Tony one straight up. I do think Tony basically calls herself one at some point... Which... Baby, your self image pleaasse. AND YEAH, THE PLATE SENT BACK-- You'd all laugh if I showed you my notes app drafts, I literally have a note titled 'carmy mental snap' and a list of things to fuck with him psychologically that come to me throughout the day

Writing the not a good person, good chef, actually did make me realize what the fuck bro was yapping about in the Season 2 finale. I always like got the amusement or enjoyment line, but I don't think I fully understood what he meant because I was like-- You make food baby, that's a form of enjoyment-- It's not to him. It's money. He doesn't get joy out of being a chef, right now. UGH. I'M RUINED.

Yeah babyyyyy, the voice in his head is still his exeeccccc lets goooooo-- Pulled up the NYC scene dialogue, for that whole morning routine. Pulled all those lines straight from it. Major L to Jeff from Community. He had a major change in character smh

or WHATEVER!!!!!!

I promise I wasn't planning on dogging on Fak this much as a server, and then I watched the trailer, and no spoilers, he fucking bombs and I was like , well, okay, that's the game we're playing Mr Storer? I'll play,,,

DAWWW, again, I know how much this takes, and I should say-- Never feel pressure, lmao-- Whenever I poke at people for not noting things, it's just me poking fun i swear. I never want it to feel STRESSFUL to read these chapters, though (well, i guess i did want THIS one to feel stressful lmao), so please don't feel like you have to do this-- Do i love it? Yes. Do I also beg for essays? Yeah.,,, but like, like yknow what I mean-- Go at thine pace, baby

Richie and Syd are Tony's two besties, and them both immediately going SO YALL ARE FUCKING???? Feels very correct, to me. Sex painting also, I just think is such a Fak thing to whisper. I mean those canvases couples FUCK on, with paint covering, by the way, if that wasn't clear. I don't know how well known a thing that is. I went to art school, so. When worlds collide, yknow.

:< Zero Pulse Carmy L Count: 2 (the morning scene was rough)

I love seeing the different reactions to Tony yelling, because it's either like: AWE POOR CARMY or THATS SO FUCKING SCARY SHE SHOULD BE SCREAMING, WHAT IS WRONG WITH HIM?-- And I love to see that.

I would 100% flail like this. Fak is me at my new admin job every day.

I've said it before, and I'll say it again, I went from a certified Richie Hater to a lover. Writing this fic I think also aided to that, alot, because it forced me to think very critically about like, what it fucking meant to stick around, when your best friend dies. Like me and my best girlfriend-- The Syd to my Tony, essentially, have both said repeatedly if one of us kicks the bucket, the other one is immediately yeeting it. Like. Richie staying alive let alone in the same place, that takes a lot of fucking strength. Love him.

DIABOLICALLLLLL HAAAAA, I did a little dance, when everyone started tweaking in the comments with that one. Love to see it. Got your asses with that surprise-- Got Carmen with it too, lmao. Can you imagine going to work already in a bad fuckin mood and then the Devil from your shoulder is like 'i'll be there in 30'? Ohhhh bitcchh--- I'd be doin worse than Carmy, tbh.

I would've dug so much more into the RACIALLY TARGETED MILES MORALES BANDAIDS!!!! if I was explicitly writing Tony as a POC, but I needed to give her a tamer response with 'i hate you'-- But to note, if I was going full WOC besties, it would've been fuckin' 'oh so you'd prefer peter parker?? racissstttttttt'-- Nothing says solidarity in the black/brown community like calling your fellow POC racist.

LET ME!!!! LET ME!!! Had that line written in my head for quite some time-- I've been planning this chapter since chapter 2, so it's like, like I really got to LIVEEE writing Tony/Syd, I adore them.

GO TONYYYYYY, I was worried I gave her too many talents, tbh. But like. Her title and nickname is Jack of All Trades, and it makes a lot of sense to me that being a Lead Paramedic = Fantastic under pressure, great at giving direction/leading, decent bedside manner + Repairman Level Memory + Wine Fascination since highschool = Not that many actual skills, but they all transfer into so many different branches. So I think she's not to OP lmao. WE'VE GOT TO NERF TONY.

The rat chef!!! I'm shocked no one found it frankly offensive Carmen hasn't seen Ratatouille-- But I do think that would be canon. I think Carmen's life would change dramatically for the better if he just fuckin' relaxed and watched Ratatouille.

RIGHT? I'm literally still debating the idea of what Carmen would do, in the scenario. Like, a lot rides on the idea of a star. His whole life and everyone elses--- Would he prioritize Tony? Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmm let's not think about it

The note, bah. What a sweetie. It's also like, written on the recipe card he drafted, too, so technically if she gained all the Michelin skills rn herself she could make it. Theoretically.

LOVEEEE...... moving on....

Speaking of Love, I have loved seeing the handful of people saying they knew immediately when she got that plate what Tony was gonna do about it. Like that is both touching to me as an author and also heartbreaking that on a story and character level, you immediately knew what Tony would do to herself there--- Bah.

JOURNAL IS INTERESTNG-- I wonder if Mikey would be the logging type. Maybe entirely unmarked in his notes app.

WOOOOFFFFFF

I'm sorry but I'm not sorry and I hope the OPTOMETRIST APPOINTMENT WAS GOOD DESPITE DA EMOTIONS HAHA

Now let's see, is there anything in the water I can give you here... Anything that won't spoil something,,,

There's not really much that isn't really emotionally charged, so I'll give you this, at least. Feels like any context of the next chapter is spoilery, but eh, read it if you'd LIKE to. haha. AGAIN-- THANK YOU LOVE!!!

[blackbutler-sideblog]

Dadbastian Week Day 3: Trick or Treat

30 MINUTES BEFORE THE DAY IS OVER LET'S GOOOOO!!!

Anyway, this became a lot longer than I intended to but y'know what.. It is what it is lol. I hope everyone had an awesome Halloween and I hope you enjoy this spooky-themed story! Please let me know what y'all think and remember, constructive criticism is always allowed! Just a quick note: the story that Bard tells here is a real urban legend that I tweaked a little bit.

The Halloween party was a great success.

The idea of combining the traditions of Halloween from different cultures had been an excellent idea if he said so himself. The villagers were thoroughly impressed by the festive decorations, having never seen a Halloween party quite like this before. There were lights and jack-o-lanterns strewn about all throughout the garden. Paper lanterns shaped like witches and ghosts hung carefully from the trees which several children tried (and failed) to jump up and grab. Adults and children alike enjoyed the many activities provided, from apple bobbing to pumpkin carving. It was more messy than he would have liked but at least the villagers would continue to praise his young master's name.

Speaking of the young master, he appeared to be absolutely tuckered out. The Earl had never been one for social gatherings of any kind, but he especially loathed the ones where he was the host. Having to make sure he spoke to everyone was attended was exhausting for the boy, and it did not help that most of the attendants were children who pulled on the tail of his costume while begging him for candy.

Seeing the master so flustered was an amusing sight he must admit.

But now, the sun had long since set and the last of the guests trickled out of the garden, leaving behind apple cores and candy wrappers that Sebastian would now have to clean up. But first, he must attend to the young lord who desperately wanted to get out of these "stupid rags" as he called them. He had already ripped the plastic horns off of his head throwing them down in what could only be described as the beginnings of a tantrum. Oh, how cranky the young master gets when he is sleepy.

"Awww are you going to bed, young master?"

Finny whined through the fake fangs still in his mouth, committed to wearing his vampire costume for as long as possible. The gardener had been absolutely thrilled with the night's festivities, having more fun than all of the children in attendance combined. Bard had commented on how it'll be impossible to "get the kid to shut up and hit the hay" tonight, but Sebastian had the sense that the chef had been riling Finny up all night with stories and candy.

"Yes. It's late and I'm tired."

"Can't you please stay up a little longer? Bard promised he tell us one more story!" The gardener begged, something that was a bit out of character for him. Though it was normal for Finny to bother the young master, often trying to get the boy to read to him or play cards when he had free time, he usually left him alone after a single dismissal.

"Ugh. No, Finny. I want to go to bed."

"Oh, please, young master! Pretty pretty please with sugar on top! He says it's going to be a real good one and I have some chocolate left over we can share and Mey-rin and Snake are going to stay up late too and—"

"FINE! Fine. Just quit shouting." Ciel relented, shoulders hunched and his frown deepening.

Sebastian tsked. "Now, young master, you have a busy schedule tomorrow—"

"And you don't think I know that? Shut up and let's get this over with..."

"But, my lord—"

The boys already were turned away, Finny dragging Ciel gently (as gently as he could) behind him. Sebastian sighed. Ciel was already more irate than a horse with an abscessed hoof. Coaching the boy out of bed in the morning will be nearly impossible if he stays up much longer.

Sebastian followed the pair back outside where everyone, minus Tanaka who had retired for the night about half an hour ago, was seated around one of the tables. They were all still in costume, munching away at the leftover lollies and chocolate bars. Within the minute head start Ciel had, he had already seated himself between Finny and Mey-rin, halfway through angrily eating one of his famous Funtom Bars.

'So that was the real motive' Sebastian thought to himself, using all of his willpower to not roll his eyes in front of the Earl.

Bard looked up, noticing Sebastian's sudden presence.

"Ahh, so even the butler is intrigued to hear my story of fright and terror." He said with a strange, high-pitched voice, wiggling and bending his fingers for some reason. Finny and Mey-rin laughed at his antics. Ciel and Snake seemed unimpressed.

Sebastian cocked an eyebrow.

"Baldroy, have you been drinking?"

"Eh? Uh..." The chef's face quickly turned red, causing Mey-rin and Finny to laugh even harder. "It was just a little. I swear!"

"Who cares? Can we get on with the story please so I can go to bed?" Ciel grumbled, taking another violent bite out of chocolate.

"Oh, yeah. Of course! Let's see." Bard sputtered, happy to change the subject from his drinking habits back to the reason they were all gathered outside in the first place. He cleared his throat.

Deep in the remote heart of the woods, there lived a family in a cabin far removed from the rest of the village. One day, the mother and father decided to leave for a week, venturing into town, and entrusted their young son to keep watch over the house.

Although the boy had never been without his parents before, he felt unafraid. They had gifted him a large and loyal dog, a faithful companion, to keep him company and protect him. Every night, the dog would rest under the boy's bed, ever vigilant and prepared to defend his master from any potential intruders. Yet, despite his trust in his dog, the boy couldn't help but feel a tinge of fear as the sun dipped below the horizon. The woods grew dark and silent, and one could never be certain of what lurked among the trees. When anxiety kept him from falling asleep, the boy would extend his hand over the side of his bed, and his dog would softly lick his fingers, a reassuring reminder that a guardian was close by.

On the third night, the boy was stirred from his slumber by an unexpected sound.

Drip. Drip. Drip.

Had he forgotten to turn off the faucet before retiring to bed? He rushed out of his bed, hurrying to the kitchen to inspect the sink. As it turned out, he had not fully closed the faucet, permitting a constant but subtle drip to trickle from the tap. He tightened it, returned to his room, slipped back into bed, and allowed his dog to comfort him with a few reassuring licks, ultimately drifting into peaceful sleep once more.

...

Drip. Drip. Drip.

'What? The dripping sound again?' thought the boy, awakening for a second time that night. But he had indeed turned off the kitchen faucet. Could another faucet have been left on? Subconsciously, the boy reached under the bed, his dog eagerly licking his fingers. It was okay. His loyal protector was still there. Empowered by his unwavering pet, the boy leaped from his bed once more and rushed to the bathroom. Perhaps the troublesome dripping sound originated from there.

And indeed, the source of the annoyance was the leaky tub faucet. He must have forgotten to close it completely after his bath that night. Just as in the kitchen, the boy tightened it as much as he could and returned to his room. He jumped back into bed, his hand finding its place under the bedframe, where a few more soothing licks from his dog helped calm his nerves and guide him back to sleep.

...

Drip. Drip. Drip.

...

How could the dripping persist? The boy was now genuinely frightened. He had checked both the kitchen and the bathroom, leaving no other faucet unexamined. Anxious and trembling, he lowered his hand from the bed's edge. At first, there was nothing, and his heart pounded as his limb dangled limply over the mattress. Then, the gentle touch of his dog's tongue graced his fingers, an immediate source of comfort. He exhaled, releasing his tension. There was no reason to be afraid; his dog remained at his side.

In the stillness, the boy focused, attempting to identify the source of the dripping sound.

Drip. Drip. Drip.

It was close, too close. Could there be a hole in the ceiling? Was it the sound of rain?

Drip. Drip. Drip.

Wait. The dripping emanated from his room, too loud to originate elsewhere.

Drip. Drip. Drip.

It was coming from his cupboard!

Irritation replaced the boy's fear. This was the third time this infernal dripping noise had disturbed his sleep, and it had been inside his cupboard all along. He yanked the cupboard's handles open with a huff. What could possibly make such a noise within the confines of a dusty old cupboard? He gripped the handles tightly, swung open the doors, and froze.

There, suspended by a rope, was his loyal dog, lifeless. Its throat had been cruelly slit, and its blood dripped slowly onto the cupboard's floor.

Drip. Drip. Drip.

He screamed, devastated by the sight of his beloved pet.

In a panicked rush, he fled from his room to the kitchen, intent on seeking help. Something was going horribly wrong! But upon reaching the front door, he froze once again, gripped by terror. In blood, a sinister message was scrawled on the door: "Humans Can Lick Too!"

—

At first, no one reacted to Bard's facile story, not to Sebastian's surprise. He did not find it particularly scary and evidently, neither did anyone else.

"'I don't get it.' Says Emily." Snake finally broke the silence. "Why was there writing on the door?"

"You don't get it?! There was obviously a person under the bed! That's who was licking the kid's hand!" Bard shouted.

"That's gross, Bard!" Mey-rin added.

"It's supposed to be gross! It's a horror story! Do you people not know that Halloween is supposed to be scary?"

"But it wasn't scary! It was sad! That poor dog..." Finny sniffled, focusing more on the dog's death than the actual point of the story. Bard should have known better than to bring up such a subject matter with the ever-so-sensitive Finny.

"Calm down, kid. It's just a story."

"Quite a stupid story, might I add." Ciel finally commented the hand that once held his chocolate bar now supported the boy's cheek as he leaned an elbow on the table. He had a single brow raised and a quizzical look on his face. "How would they have running water if they lived far in the woods?"

"Oi! Quit knitpicking! See if I'll ever tell you lot another story!" Bard gumbled, crossing his arms and sulking deeper into his chair.

"Good! We don't want to hear your stories! Look, you've made Finny cry!" Mey-rin declared, gesturing over to the gardener who now held his face in his hand and was shaking with sobs, obviously distraught over the fate of a fictional dog.

Ciel rolled his eye, a pronounced dark circle forming right under it.

"Alright. I've had enough 'fun' for one night." He stood from his chair stretching an arm above his head as he let out a deep yawn. "I'm going to bed. Come, Sebastian."

Sebastian sighed. He no doubt would be the one to have to calm Finny down once the Earl was put to bed. He should have stopped this nonsense story as soon as it started. Too late now, he supposed.

-

"What a stupid little story. I could've been asleep ages ago."

Ciel was cleaned, dressed, and already tucked into bed when he brought up Bard's story again. The crankiness that came with his sleepiness hasn't gone away it seems, though Sebastian had hoped that the extra chocolate bar would have lifted the young master's mood even slightly. No. It was truly a condition only sleep could cure.

"Yes, it was quite foolish. But at least now you can finally rest." Sebastian added, readjusting the duvet to make sure it was tucked all the way up to the boy's chin.

"I mean, how could he not hear his dog being killed if it was supposedly right under his bed? Did it run out to attack the intruder without barking? Dogs don't do that."

"Well, I will admit I do not know much about dogs, so I will take your word on it."

"And it just so happens that all of the faucets, in the woods mind you, are leaking the same night decided to invade his cabin and string up his dog? Where did Bard even hear such an idiotic story?"

"I'm not sure, my lord. But you can certainly ask him in the morning if the question still weighs heavy on your mind."

That comment earned a glare. "Don't patronize me. I'm just amazed that he had the gall to think that was an interesting story is all."

"I'm amazed Bard has the gall to do a lot of things, my lord. But we shouldn't dwell on such a common occurrence. You should get some sleep."

"Whatever." And with that, Ciel turned to his side, digging his body into the mattress like he always did before drifting off. Now, only the top of his little head poked out from under the covers, his grey hair already messy from rubbing his head into the pillow. Such a tiny thing.

"Good night, young master."

Sebastian blew out the candles on the candlebara leaving the room only to be lit by the faint moonlight that peaked from behind the bedroom curtains. He began making his silent exit, trying everything in his power to not rouse the little lord. He will need every second of sleep possible for his busy schedule tomorrow. Just as he gripped the brass doorknob, a tiny voice called out to him.

"Sebastian?"

"Yes, my lord?"

There was a pause, then a huff.

"Can...Can you..." The boy trailed off, muttering something incoherent under his breath.

"What was that—"

"Can you check under the damn bed!" He suddenly shouted shoulders hunching all the way to his ears despite his laid-out position.

The room became quiet, Sebastian taking a second to register his master's words. Check...under his bed?

Sebastian tried to suppress the laughter bubbling up in his chest but he couldn't help but allow a few chuckles to escape.

"It appears you were frightened by Bard's 'idiotic story', correct?"

"Shut up I was not! It just got me thinking is all! I've never seen you check there, not even once!"

Despite the darkness, Sebastian could see Ciel's red little ears perfectly fine. No doubt the rest of his face would be as red as a tomato if he would just turn around. How unlike his master to make such a childlike request. Who knew the great Lord Phantomhive would be scared of such a silly little urban legend?

"I assure you, I would know if there was something under your bed. You have nothing to fear." Sebastian chuckled once again, much to the Earl's annoyance.

The boy huffed again, but the tension did not leave his body. Sebastian sighed. He knew that children often needed reassurance after being frightened, but Ciel was not easily frightened by most things. Oh well. It couldn't be helped.

Sebastian approached the bed again, making his way over to the side that Ciel was facing so the boy could see what he was doing. His big, bright eyes stared up at him, angry and waiting. With an admittedly dramatic flourish, Sebastian knelt down and raised the bed skirt. He peered beneath the bed as if investigating some dark and treacherous realm.

The room remained quiet for a moment as Sebastian stared at nothing. Well, nothing but dust. This area will need to be thoroughly cleaned tomorrow. Remaining on his knees, he straightened back up till his head was level with his master.

"It appears to be perfectly safe, young master. No monsters are lurking under your bed. You can rest easy."

Ciel's eyes twitched in annoyance as his glare deepened, but the tension leaving his body was not lost on the butler.

"I wasn't worried about 'monsters' you damn demon. I was only reminding you to do your bloody job."

With a slight smile, Sebastian lowered the bed skirt back into place and rose to his feet. Placing his right hand over his chest, he bowed.

"Yes, of course, young master. Thank you for the reminder."

"Yeah. Yeah. Now get out." The boy's voice lacked any real bite, revealing the tiredness that had been plaguing him for the majority of the night.

"As you wish, my lord. Call my name if you require anything else."

"I won't! Get out!" He groaned, burying his head completely under his covers, hiding his still-red face from his demon.

A quiet chuckle escaped from the butler once again. His master had a talent for making him do such a thing. After a quick good night, Sebastian left to continue his nightly duties. He should probably start by checking with Finny. No doubt he was still crying. He sighed, Ciel's words still swimming around in his head.

"Reminding me to do my job, eh?"

Yes, what the boy had summoned him for in the first place: to be the protector of the boy and his cabin deep inside the woods. Sebastian smiled.

[funtomfactory]

A Kuroshitsuji Christmas

A little Black Butler Christmas thing I threw together, enjoy!

Sebastian: *narrates* It was Boxing Day, late 19th century. Just outside of London, UK, lay the grand Phantomhive manor. Its rooftops were decorated with a sheet of white snow, and its windows shimmered with light coming from within. All of the household was in high spirits; the maid, Mey-Rin, was donning some wreath in her hair. Finny, the gardener, had helped to set up real trees inside. They were decorated with candles and ornaments, and proven to be capable of taking a blow, which was proven by the cook Bardroy when he tried to set the Christmas pudding alight. Old man Tanaka was resting near the fireplace and the footman Snake was handing out hot chocolate to everyone. The season had everyone in its grasp. Everyone, safe for the young master, who was sitting cross-legged in a chair near a tree ladened with presents.

Ciel: *shifts in his chair and grumbles* Ugh, I can't believe how much time I've wasted on social frivolities these last few days, I'm horribly behind schedule on my paperwork....

Sebastian: *whispering, while smirking mischievously* Come now young master, this is a special day for us servants. You owe it to us for all our hard work.

Ciel: *sighs* I suppose you're right. Well then... *turns around towards Finny* Finny, would you be so kind to hand out the first box?

Finny: With pleasure, young master! *Finny jumps up and grabs the nearest box* This one is for... S-Snake... Hey! It's from Lady Elizabeth!

Snake: *takes the box from Finny* From Smile's fiancée? How nice, says Webster.

Ciel: Yes, she was pretty thorough with buying presents this year...

Snake unwrapped the box and looked inside. He pulled out a handful of what appeared to be tiny scarfs and hats.

Bard: Are those...

Ciel: Lizzy insisted that she wanted Snake's snakes to wear matching clothing. She insisted it would make them... *twitches his fingers* That much cuter.

Snake: That's a lovely idea! We'll wear them with pride, says Emily.

As Snake tried to fit his snakes with their new ensemble, the young master guestured Finny to hand out the next gift.

Finny: Here you go, Mey-Rin!

Mey: M-My turn?! Thank you Finny!

Mey-Rin unwraps her gift to reveal a lavishly decorated hair clip.

Mey: Oh my! It's stunning yes it is! Thank you young master!

Ciel nods in approval as Mey-Rin tries to put the clip in her hair. Meanwhile, Finny reads the tag on the third present.

Finny: This one is yours, Bard!

Bard: Alright! Let's see what we've got here! *tears off the wrapping paper* A metal cigarette case!

Sebastian: Since you're prone to... Flammable accidents we thought it suitable to buy you something to at least keep your cigarettes safe from anything catching on fire. It would be a waste if you didn't get to smoke them.

Bard: I don't know if that's a compliment... But I'll take it. Thank you very much!

Finny: *frowns at the next present* This one is for... All of us?

Bard: Well then what are you waiting for?

Ciel: Go ahead Finny, open it up.

Finny rips open the box to reveal a stack of Chirstmas hats. The hats are covered in glitter and ribbons. Ciel moans.

Ciel: Lizzy... What have you done?

Sebastian: It would be an insult not to wear them.... *takes one from the stack and puts in on his young master's head, then puts one on himself* Now we're actually dressed for the occasion.

The other servants cheer as they put on their hats. Ciel slumps in his chair, looking miserable.

Finny: Ah, this box is if you, mister Sebastian!

Sebastian: *looks surprised* For me?

Ciel: *smirks* Did you really think you would be spared?

Sebastian: *takes the box from Finny* I... Well thank you!

Ciel: I wouldn't be so quick with the gratitude...

Sebastian unwraps the present. Inside is a calendar for the new year, each month containing a drawing of cats.

Sebastian: Aah... How adorable...

Ciel: *annoyed* And here I was thinking Lizzy would give you something more...

Sebastian: Unsuitable? That thought hardly fits with the Christmas spirit, young master...

Sebastian hugs the calendar to his chest as Finny hands the next gift to Takana.

Tanaka: Ho ho ho...

Finny helps Tanaka open his present. Tanaka got an expensive looking set of tea cups.

Tanaka: Hoh!

Finny: One for you, young master! *hands Ciel a box*

Mey: Oh! That's from all of us!

Bard: Please enjoy it, young master!

Snake: And a Merry Chirstmas to you! Says Oscar.

Ciel has a quizzical look on his face as he opens the package. The servants got him a set of eyepatches.

Ciel: Wha-... Thank you...

Bard: There's no need to be embarassed about receiving a gift young master!

Finny: Now you can match them with your outfits!

Mey: Me and mister Snake picked them especially for you, yes we did!

Sebastian: *has a look of malice in his eyes as he takes out a bright, crimson eyepatch* How about you try this one, young master? It matches the hat....

There was no room for protest as Sebastian swapped the regular, black eyepatch for the coloured one. Ciel's face was barely a shade away from matching the new ensemble.

Finny: Ah, this package is for Mey-Rin again!

Ciel: Wouldn't you want to unwrap a gift yourself first?

Mey: You can't skip yourself, no you can't!

Finny: O-Okay!

Snake: Here's one with your name on it, says Wordsworth.

Finny took the box Snake pointed at from the stack.

Finny: I wonder what it is... *unwraps his gift* ... It's a book!

Bard: *reads the title over Finny's shoulder* "20 Christmas stories and carols, bundled".... With this, you'll be an expert on Christmas before the next year rolls around!

Finny: Thank you young master!

Ciel smiles as Finny stares at the cover, tears in his eyes.

Ciel: I hope you've been practising your reading skills.

Finny: I have! I'm still not that fast, though... Hey... Here's an idea... Could you read us one of these stories tonight, young master?

Ciel: Wha-

Mey: What a splendid idea that is!

Bard: Hey yeah! That would be fun! We've never heard you read something aloud like that.

Ciel: *blushes* And you never will...

Sebastian: Come now, young master, don't be a spoilsport...

Ciel: Why you... *sighs* ... Fine. But only one, and you'll have to work extra hard to do all the cleaning up in the morning.

Servants: Will do!

Ciel: *flips through the book* Hmm... Ah, here's one. A visit from St. Nicholas.

The servants leaned in closer as Ciel cleared his throat.

Ciel: 'Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse. The stockings were hung by the chimney with care-

Finny: Stockings?

Bard: Yeah some people put the presents in socks above the chimney.

Mey: Really?!

Finny: That sounds fun! Let's hang our socks above the chimney too!

The servants scrambled on thier feet and ran out of the room.

Ciel: Hey! Wait!

After a while, the servants returned, each carrying a sock. Snake's sock looked wrinkled, and Bard's contained a hole. Ciel blinked in surprise, then shook his head in annoyance. The servants hung their socks on the chimney mantle, then settled down again.

Ciel: Could I please continue the story without any interruptions? ... Here we are... The children were nestled all snug in their beds, while visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads, and mamma in her 'kerchief, and I in my cap, had just settled down for a long winter's nap, when out on the lawn there arose such a clatter, I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter. Away to the window I flew like a flash, tore open the shutters and threw up the sash. The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow, gave the lustre of mid-day to objects below, when, what to my wondering eyes should appear, but a miniature sleigh, and eight tiny reindeer.

Finny: Wow! Santa really has that many reindeers?!

Snake: Do they all have names?

Ciel: *sighs* I'll get to that in a minute... Now... With a little old driver, so lively and quick, I knew in a moment it must be St. Nick. More rapid than eagles his coursers they came, and he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name; "Now, DASHER! now, DANCER! now, PRANCER and VIXEN! On, COMET! on CUPID! on, DONNER and BLITZEN! To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall! Now dash away! dash away! dash away all!"

Finny: They can climb walls?!

Mey: Hush Finny, or we'll never hear the end of the story!

Ciel: As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly, When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky, So up to the house-top the coursers they flew, With the sleigh full of toys, and St. Nicholas too. And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof The prancing and pawing of each little hoof. As I drew in my head, and was turning around, Down the chimney St. Nicholas came with a bound.

Finny: *rushes to the fireplace, knocking over Tanaka* Santa! Santa are you in the chimney?! But the fire is on! It's hot!

Tanaka: Hoooh!

Bard: Finny! Would you please calm down?!

Snake: You know he's not real, right? Says Webster.

As Bard and Snake tugged Finny back to his place and Sebastian helped Tanaka upright again, Ciel continued.

Ciel: He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot, And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot; A bundle of toys he had flung on his back, And he looked like a peddler just opening his pack. His eyes -- how they twinkled! his dimples how merry! His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry! His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow, And the beard of his chin was as white as the snow; The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth, And the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath; He had a broad face and a little round belly, That shook, when he laughed like a bowlful of jelly. He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf, And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself; A wink of his eye and a twist of his head, Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread.

Finny: *sighs dreamily* With a description like that... How could he not be real?

Bard: You can't be serious, right?!

Ciel: This is indeed a rather joyful version of Father Christmas. He has also seen other iterations, though... *smirks impishly*

Finny: *a little scared* R-Really?!

Ciel: Read the rest of the book and find out for yourself... Now where was I... Ah... He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work, and filled all the stockings, then turned with a jerk, and laying his finger aside of his nose, and giving a nod, up the chimney he rose-

There was the sound of something clattering. Looking around with a jerk, the household saw Finny laying on his back on the floor, blissfully asleep, his cup of hot cocoa rolling on the carpet.

Mey: Oh dear...

Bard: He couldn't even finish the story...

Ciel: *snaps the book shut* Well I guess that's the end of it for now then... Sebastian, Bard, bring Finny to his bed. Mey-Rin, Snake, clean away the cups and then it's off to bed. We'll finish the rest of the presents tomorrow.

Servants: *nod* Yes sir!

And so, Sebastian carried Finny downstairs, with Bardroy in tow. They entered thier room and lay Finny down on his bed. As Sebastian pulled him under the covers, Bardroy put on his nightwear.

Bard: I swear he's still just a kid, despite his ridiculous strength.

Sebastian: Kid or not, I'll expect him to work hard tomorrow to mkae up for the ruckus he caused.

Bard: *slides into his bed* Geez, lighten up a bit, it's the one time a year we servants get to taste a bit of magic... Who's the spoilsport now... *turns around and starts snoring*

Sebastian: Magic, hm? *grabs the red duvet from Finny's bed and swings open the window, jumping on the windowsill and climbing towards the roof, the duvet draped over his shoulders*

The cold draft from the open window made its way to Finny, who stirred, searching for his covers.

Finny: Hm? Ah! *spots the open window and scurries over, looking around over the landscape, and spots something crimson* Santa Claus?

Meanwhile upstairs, Snake and Mey-Rin just finished their tasks.

Mey: I know I shouldn't ask, young master, but just how does the story end?

Ciel: *reopens the book and points at the last few lines of the poem* He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle, and away they all flew like the down of a thistle. But I heard him exclaim, ere he drove out of sight-

At that moment, Sebastian soared from the rooftop towards the trees, guised under a blur of red. Ciel looked in disbelief as the jaws of Snake and Mey-Rin dropped to the floor. A few flors below, Finny cheered with delight.

Finny: Santa! Santa! Bard! Look!

Bard: *Sleepy* huh...? Wha-!

As he flew by the windows, Sebastian shouted.

Sebastian: Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night!

[iamvegorott]

Magicians Don't Need Superheros Pt37

First: Link Prev: Link Next: TBA

----------

Marvin woke up and saw that he was alone in his bed. Why was he disappointed about that fact? It was so weird that he had expected to see Jackie next to him. He must have just gotten so used to that habit of sharing a bed after seeing each other late in the night, so the shift was throwing him off. Marvin had mocked Dark for not being able to change the routine, but maybe he was the same. 

“Ugh.” Marvin groaned at that thought, hating that he could have anything in common with Dark. He sat up and looked at the empty spot again. Jackie had been acting really strange the last time he saw him. He should ask him about it to see if he needed anything. If they wanted to take care of Night today, they all had to be at their best.

“Morning, Marvin.” Chase greeted as Marvin went into the kitchen after getting dressed for the day. 

“Morning. I was told you and Henrik had an interesting night.” Marvin shot a grin to Henrik, who was sitting at the small table and now choking on his coffee. 

“It-It was-It was a nice dinner.” Chase sputtered out. 

“Yeah, the hickey confirms that.” Marvin pointed to Chase’s neck and chuckled. Chase could only let out some gibberish while Henrik hid his face with his hand. 

“Found the fucker.” Anti said as he walked in, tapping away on his phone. “Looks like he’s heading back to where he first popped up. Probably doing that whole ‘returning to the scene of the crime’ bullshit.” He tucked his phone into his pocket and then clapped his hands. “When Jackie gets here, we can head out and ruin that shit's day.” 

“We? You mean myself and Jackie?” Marvin corrected.

“I’m coming with you two, didn’t Chase tell you?” Anti shrugged.

“No. No, he didn’t.” Marvin turned to look at Chase. “Anti is coming with us?” 

“As a backup,” Chase explained. “Just in case something goes wrong, he can step in and help.”

“We don’t need his help.” Marvin huffed. 

“What’s going on?” Jackie was finishing putting on his hoodie as he stepped into the room. 

“Take an apple. We’re going to the forest.” Marvin grabbed said apple, plopping it into Jackie’s hand, and then grabbed the collar of the hoodie to pull Jackie out of the house. 

x~x~x

“Mad says that Host never explained what was changing in the vision, so there’s nothing for us to work off of that,” Jackie said as he read his text. “Do we have a plan?” 

“Knock Night out and drag his body to the Manor.” Marvin rolled up his sleeves. 

“How?”

“Distract him, and I’ll take over from there.” 

“Are you sure?” Jackie noticed how Marvin’s usual confident energy was different. There was an anger behind it. He wasn’t able to read emotions like Mad was, but Jackie could tell when someone was pissed at the world. 

“I got this. I know what I’m doing.” Marvin fixed his hair so it was in a tight ponytail. Jackie had a really bad feeling about this, but he trusted Marvin…he also didn’t want Marvin to get hurt. “Are you okay?” Marvin noticed how Jackie seemed hesitant. That wasn’t how he was. Something was wrong. 

“Yeah, yeah. I’m just ready to be done with this.” Jackie weakly laughed, rubbing the back of his neck. 

“So am I. We can splurge at that cafe when this is finished.” Marvin suggested, waving his hand over his face and his mask appearing. “I think they got a new cherry pie we can try.” 

“That sounds good.” Jackie wished they could just skip to that. 

“There he is.” Marvin pointed before disappearing in the next blink. Jackie followed where Marvin’s hand had been and saw Night looking around, annoyance clear on his face. 

“I got this,” Jackie said to himself and then took a deep breath, letting it out as he jogged over to Night. “Hey!”

“Oh great, it’s you.” Night scoffed. “No friend?” 

“Are you doing alright?” Jackie avoided having to lie by asking a question instead and letting himself ramble. “Like, have you been eating? You look super tired. Did you get kicked out of the hotel? Probably couldn’t use that card for too long. We could, like, make you a sandwich or something. Can never go wrong with a good sandwich.” He saw Marvin making his way around, getting closer to Night’s back. 

“Did you really track me down again to offer food?” Night rolled his eyes. 

“I’ve done it before. Marvin, my friend, was the previous person to show up and I wanted to make sure he was okay so I left these like little care boxes with some food and water and tea.” Jackie outlined a box with his hands, a smile on his face as he recalled the memory of watching Marvin eat the food he made. 

“This friend, you care about him, don’t you?” Night raised a brow.

“Well, yeah, he’s my friend.”

“That is not what I mean. You care about him.” 

“I-uh-he’s just-he’s my friend.” Jackie cleared his throat. 

“Allow me to give you some advice. Drop those ‘feelings’ of yours. Nothing good will come from it.” Jackie noticed that now Night was the one rambling instead. Maybe he could keep him going to keep him even more distracted. “Love won’t get you anywhere. It’s just a nuisance in your way of getting what you want and need. If marriage is ever involved, it’s for power, to trade, to ensure the balance of things. The fact that my own ‘loving wife’ has yet to show is a sign of that.” 

“You’re married?” 

“I am Night. She is Day. It’s how it is meant to be.” 

“So you don’t love her?”

“There is no need. It's not like I have to worry about ‘my heart’ or anything like that. I don’t know her own stance but we know our purpose, so there’s no point in fighting against it. Not like anyone would ever get me to do a double-take, as one might say.” Night chuckled. “If you’re done disturbing my work, I am going to see if I can find-” He stopped, going stiff as Marvin’s glowing hands got close to him. Night quickly turned and swung his leg, just missing hitting Marvin. 

“Wait!” Jackie ran over and got between Night and Marvin, holding his arms out. “Just come-” He didn’t get to finish before Night slapped his arms away, rammed the heel of his palm against his nose, and then caught one of his arms with both hands. 

“No more warnings.” Night’s eyes darkened and, without hesitation, jerked his hands toward each other. A loud sickening snap echoed through the trees and the sound that followed was Jackie’s scream.  

“Jackie!” Marvin watched Jackie fall over, clinging to his arm that bent at an unnatural angle. “You fucker!” The glowing on his hands got brighter, the green color’s shade going darker and darker as he lunged himself at Night. 

Marvin threw his punches wildly, not thinking, just lashing out. He wanted to cause as much damage as he could. Anger built up with each miss, and it continued to get stronger even when he managed a blow across Night’s face. He needed to do more. He needed to keep going. The green of his magic was nearly black, losing full control over the chaos magic he had dug into. 

Night was beginning to struggle, unable to keep up with the rapid movements, and all of the air left his lungs when a solid punch to his stomach slammed him into a nearby tree. He gasped his breath as he watched Marvin charging for him once more. 

But a new scream made him stop. 

Jackie. 

Marvin turned and saw Jackie still on the ground, but he wasn’t moving, and his arm was somewhat straight again. 

He looked back, and Night was gone. He ran off. Marvin had seen the fear in his eyes. 

He had won…but it wasn’t worth it. 

“Jackie.” Marvin had the glowing fade, but the very tips of his fingers were still black. “Jackie? Jackie? Hey, you with me?” He went down to his knees, seeing the blood on Jackie’s face. “Shit, shit.” Marvin tore off the bottom of his shirt to try to clean off some of the blood, wanting to see if his nose was broken or not. “It’s okay. It’ll be okay. Just-Just wake up…Jackie? Jackie, I need you to wake up.” He thickly swallowed and let the fabric fall to the grass as he began to cough. Marvin looked at his hand, seeing something black on his palm but ignored it as he took his mask off. “Jackie? Jackie, please.” Marvin placed his clean hand on Jackie’s cheek, turning his head in hopes that facing him would work. “Wake up…look at me…wake up right now and we’ll-we’ll watch those Deadpool movies or-or we can go get you new comic books.” He blinked away tears beginning to form. “We’re going to go get those sweets, right? That pie and we can also get some cookies and brownies and anything that sounds good to you.” Marvin felt dizzy, vision blurring for a second and he tried to shake it off. “Jackie, please. Jackie, please wake up. Please. Jackie, darling, wake up.” He didn’t even realize the pet name came out. “Jackie…” Marvin had to let Jackie go to catch himself, pressing his hand to the grass. “Shit…”

He did too much, he did the magic wrong, and his body was giving up on him.

Marvin sniffed and fumbled around until he got his phone out, hand shaking as he dialed the first number he could get to.

“Anti…help…please.”

He managed to get the words out before everything went dark.

[bookloover35]

Peter Parker X Fem reader - Tony Starks Daughter.

Peters Pov:

Tik tok tik tok

Ugh I thought as I looked up at the clock.

Can this class go a little faster or I will be late for my meeting with Mr. Stark.

And he hates when people are late for important meetings, sounds a bit ironic because he is often late for important meetings himself.

My thoughts were interrupted by our teacher calling my name.

Teacher: Mr Parker, the principal wants to see you in his office.

Okay why would the principal want to see me.

But I got up and took my stuff and started walking towards the door.

My best friend Ned looked at me strangely.

I just shrugged my shoulders and told him I would write to him later and then continued on my way to the principal's office.

(Timeskip).

Yns Pov.

Yn: Yes Dad, I'll come with him as soon as he gets here.

Yes, I had to use my powers.

Tony Stark: Okay as long as no one saw you and see you later.

And love you honey.

Yn: I promise dad no one saw me and I love you too.

We said to each other and hung up, dad has asked me to pick up peter.

Because of two reasons, that he is too busy and two he thinks school takes too long.

I don't understand why he asks me.

I who have never even met him.

I can tell you a little bit about myself.

My name is Yn Stark and I am 17 years old and I have brown hair and brown eyes just like my father.

And if you haven't caught my last name, I'm the daughter of the multi-millionaire Tony Stark himself.

I don't know who my mother is.

And I've been homeschooled my whole life.

Peter: Who are you?

I turned around and saw a boy my age.

Damn he's cute.

Yn: Are you Peter Parker?

Peter: Yes, I'm Peter Parker, who are you?

And what have you done with our principal!

Yn: Okay calm down, one question at a time.

The answer to your second question.

I haven't done anything to your principal, he's at a conference and I've only borrowed his appearance, To get you here.

And the answer to your first question.

My name is Yn Stark my father has asked me to pick you up.

Peter: Did you just say Stark, like Tony Stark.

Yn: Who do you think I'm talking about?

There is only one Tony Stark.

Look, I promise I'll answer all your questions when we get to my dad's, and one more thing don't freak out.

Before he could ask or say anything, I used my powers and transformed into his Aunt May.

Yn: Oops, I forgot to tell you that I can shapeshift.

(Timeskip)

Yn: Dad we are here now.

I shouted and started to walk towards my bedroom but was stopped by Peter.

Peter: Wait you promised to answer my questions.

Yn: Right.

Okay go ahead.

Peter: How old are you?

Why has Mr. Stark never mentioned you?

And do you have any other superpowers than just shapeshifting.

Yn: I am 17 years old.

Why my dad has never mentioned me is a secret.

And yes, apart from shapeshifting, I can read people's minds.

Like right now you're trying to figure out why it's classified and that you think I'm pretty.

Peter: Wow.

I went up to him and closed his mouth.

Then I left and told him.

Yn: Hope to see you again soon Peter Parker and one more thing you look very good too.

The end.

[the-puniisher]

grgrgehrgrg okay so like

college au shit... like. majors and roomies and shenanigans...

❝COLLEGE AU❞

I am CRAZY for college AU's.. LETS GOOO!!! After writing this all up I might make some drabbles based off of it...

❝VASH❞

Majors in Conservation/Research, studies Anthropology, the history of humans and their development.

Top of his class, the nice kid that's always offering tutoring to his classmates.

Dating Nick, always talking him up at any point in time. When people see Nick for the first time they're like "wtf.. this is your guy??" looking up and down a greaseball of a man. Vash is like omg.. yes.. isn't he wonderful.. as he permeates cigarette smoke.

THE definition of broke college student. He has $5 to his name after nessesities.

Absolute soft spot for anything living, has taken in a few strays into his dorm room. Nick is absolutely against taking in animals because Vash doesn't even have enough money to feed himself, and animals can be given to shelters. Nick always lectures him but doesn't have the heart to take the cats away from him... and he started to like them, too.

Obligatory plants around the room, loves to take care of things.

Absolute party pooper, prefers to study in the library alone than go to parties.

Hides behind bookshelves in the library to avoid Knives, how the hell is he supposed to study when his brother won't shut the fuck up about how proud he is of him for studying, anyways?

❝WOLFWOOD❞

Majors in Philosophy/Religious Studies.

Loves Philosophy/Religious Studies OUTSIDE of school, but the second he has to read the bible for class he wants to commit several sins.

Absolutely sick of studying, always hosting room parties.

Undefeated keg stand pro.

SHOTS, SHOTS, SHOTS. Drinks the hardest ass liquor.

Dorm room is a fucking man cave. Curtains always drawn, lights always off. Dude hisses when you open his door. Clothes all over the floor, bed unmade.

Last to his classes, bedhead and pajamas. Who the hell gives a damn about keeping up appearances, anyways?

Walks with Livio to shared classes, always late and always together. They scheme shit like "Okay you walk in first and I'll walk in a few minutes later so it's not noticable." (Everyone always knew, they're inseparable.)

Shares a room with Livio.

❝MERYL❞

Majors in Journalism.

Absolute teachers pet. Knows all of the hard shit that she realistically won't use in her future career.

Girlfriends with Milly... She is the book smart to Milly's street smart. The brains to her brawn, if you will.

Always hounding everyone to study, but is the first to get wasted at parties.

Known for being a vommitter at parties.

Minimalistic and very clean dorm room. Whenever the gang hangs out or has sleepovers, it's usually there because it's the cleanest and has the most room.

She's always taking polaroid pictures of the group, hanging them up on her walls.

❝MILLY❞

Majors in Mechanics.

Criticized for being in "a man's field" but can do more than the men in her classes can.

Girlfriends with Meryl.

If anyone in the friend group needs to figure out how to do an oil change or jumpstart a car, she's your gal.

The sober friend, takes care of Meryl at parties.

Dorm room is a stuffie paradise, she has tens of plushes that each have names and backstories. She can tell you the year she got them and why. Silly names like shmoopkins..

❝KNIVES❞

Majors in Psychology with Botany on the side.

"Ugh.. I don't do parties." Goes to the library to study because he's above everyone, spots Vash and gives him a proud lecture about how he's being responsible and studying.. And not wasting his time with those losers..

The mom friend. Not in the sense that he cares, but is the one who sits back while everyone goofs off like "What the fuck are you doing."

Very punctual with top marks. Always early to class, fully prepared, reads in his free time. Probably never uses his phone.

Poor eyesight, takes the fucking grandpa glasses out to read or use his phone. "Hey Nai, look at this!" He slowly pulls his glasses out and squints at your phone.

Phone kept in one of those wallet phone cases for convenience.

Dorm room adorned with plants everywhere.

Also prefers to stay sober. Absolutely hates that he and Vash are the same because he can't excuse his brothers behavior with "He's drunk, he's not thinking right."

His room smells and looks like bleach... But he also uses citrus scents. He is a complete germaphobe and refuses to let ANYONE enter his room because they would tarnish it.

Has a roomba named "Vacuum" to keep his company because at least he knows it cleans and doesn't get everything dirty. Paces and rants to it like it's sentient, but gets sad when he remembers it can't speak to him and soon enough he needs to talk to real people.

Absolutely hates the friend group but has no one else, dropping them all would leave him with no one.

❝LIVIO❞

Majors in Childcare/Social Services.

Has been at Nick's hip his entire life, wanting to follow in his footsteps. Nick has to very sternly remind him to "be his own man" and "walk his own path" hence why he isn't also majoring in Philosophy.

At parties Livio tries to drink the same alcohol as Nick, but one shot makes him pass out.

Also a lover of stuffies, he and Milly often make them have playdates.

Lowest marks of the friend group, but way too stubborn to ask for help.

Best cook of the group, loves to cook and take care of everyone.

People often confide in him because of his gentle nature, he has a big soft spot for people.

Shares a dorm room with Nick, they cuddled to fall asleep growing up together, so they can't sleep away from each other.

Room reeks of cigarettes and axe.

[alena-reblobs]

Trigun Bookclub Trimax Vol9 Par2

Vol01: Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3  | Vol02: Part 1 | Part 2

Trimax: Vol01 Part 1 Vol01 Part 2 | Vol02 Part 1 Vol02 Part 2 | Vol 03 Part 1 | Vol03 Part2 | Vol04 Part1 | Vol04 Part2 | Vol05 | Vol06 | Vol07 | Vol08 Part1 | Vol08 Part2 | Vol09 Part1 | Vol09 Part2

And next part!

Chapter 5:

I assume this is a time where Wolfwood really really didn't want to pull the trigger. Because as much as Livio has changed, he still once was a part of his family.

Wolfwood, spying Chapel with the eyes of a hunter. (I like to say "hunter" instead of "killer" as a hunter, much like a wolf, can also be someone who only kills to protect? Maybe? I'm trying to make sense but it's late and I'm mostly spilling thoughts that come to my mind as I read these pages again)

Looks like this show of supreme fighting instinct is smth Chapel is proud of. Ugh, Wolfwood is no longer a part of you! You have no right to be proud of what he does or what he has become!

No super cure without some nasty side effects. Or a price, the price being that they itselves take a toll on the body.

Oh the way the light is set, the composition, this is a very beautiful panel! Hmm I like when we get tone gradiant from dark to light!

Razlo!!! Teheee. Also what the hell is the deal with that third armm?? I want to know the logistics, how is it connected to the body? Can it rotate 360°?

Chapter 6:

Farewell Nicholas my ass that man is not done yet and you still have to pay for what you did to him, old man.

Oh I think I got it just now that they sacrificed one of the three dudes in order to distract Wolfwood with his blood and flesh. Best employee of the month, but at what price!

A Wolfwood in the wild will spread all its limbs far apart to appear more big and threatening.

First of all: oh dear oh dear oh dear. Second: I dore how Nightow draws so dynamic, like in these moments with quick movement, he draws the limbs without too much care for the joints. Stressing the speed and direction of movement by having the limbs flail behind and also kinda angling them like the speedlines. AND making it more dynamic by adding perspective, cause the hands are bigger and just a bit in the foreground!

D'awwwww he looks like a happy little vampire!

No stop don't give me Wolfwood thoughs, they will make me sad :((

Vash, in Wolfwood's mind: standing upright and proud and a smile on his face. Me, the reader: *bawling internally*

oh oh oh in that moment he was saying to Vash what Chapel once taught him!

It is a crime that I'm reading these pages while stopping in between to comment so I'll read these first and comment afterwards. The impact of Wolfwood's thoughts is so so strong. Let me just...post the rest of the chapter in one go.

You really, really need to read the last chapters of vol9 in one go and directly start with vol10 to get the best feeling and flow of storytelling. Complete quietness around you or some music playing, but something that makes you focus only on these words and the emotions and ....everything.

And oh my god oh my I just tried to get behind the meaning of the last sentence and I might have found something. Please look at the lyrics for "Time" by Pink Floyd. The last verse especially but also, the whole song fits??? I can no longer listen to this the same way:

"Ticking away the moments that make up a dull day You fritter and waste the hours in an offhand way Kicking around on a piece of ground in your home town Waiting for someone or something to show you the way

Tired of lying in the sunshine, staying home to watch the rain You are young and life is long, and there is time to kill today And then one day you find ten years have got behind you No one told you when to run, you missed the starting gun

So you run and you run to catch up with the sun but it's sinking Racing around to come up behind you again The sun is the same in a relative way but you're older Shorter of breath and one day closer to death

Every year is getting shorter never seem to find the time Plans that either come to naught or half a page of scribbled lines Hanging on in quiet desperation is the English way The time is gone, the song is over Thought I'd something more to say

Home Home again I like to be here When I can

When I come home Cold and tired It's good to warm my bones Beside the fire

Far away Across the field Tolling on the iron bell Calls the faithful to their knees To hear the softly spoken magic spell"

Also what a beautiful end note to end this review with.

[kynmites-blog]

Looks like my first true post is going to be a frustration rant.

So I work in a very male industry, and I'm male passing despite my bookishness.

Ugh, there is a lot of baggage here, so let me start from basics.

As a white guy, racists see you as part of the ingroup. You must also be racist because all these minorities are suppressing the white folk, and as such, all white folk are too scared to reveal their racist attitudes.

What this means is that racists only openly reveal themselves, as opposed to badly hiding their bigotry, when the object of their frustration leaves the room.

Example. I was working in the fuselage, and there was a black man and a couple of white guys. The second the black man was out of earshot, the racist man in the group did the look.

Anyone who passes as part of the ingroup will know what I am talking about. Suddenly, there is a change in the atmosphere as the bigot thinks they are free of view by the outgroup.

Suddenly, it's testing jokes (insults) at the expense of the outgroup. Then, especially if no one laughs, straight up hateful bigotry. It will go on as long as the outgroup isn't present and the "traitors to the ingroup" don't reveal themselves.

Unfortunately, despite my very liberal state, blue collar work is filled with the uneducated and thus ignorant. There are plenty of people who might consider themselves allies in that they disagree with the bigots on a fundamental level, but they don't act because they'd never stop. At no point would they reach the end of reporting people.

You feel surrounded, drowned by it. A match against a hurricane only moments away from violence if you let your guard down.

You are in effect in the same position as the bigot. They fear the repercussions of their bigotry from "the new order" while you fear it from the old.

They find it "easy" to identify the ingroup because they assume everyone "like them" is the ingroup. Whereas potential allies are constantly giving the same looks at eachother as the bigots, trying to sus out who is in and who is out.

It's only when an overt confrontation happens that the allies appear, and mostly in secret afterwards.

I started openly shouting Bible verses back at Christian, who would not stop harassing me, that contradicted his world view. Things that would make it very clear to those who are, at the very least not cult like to a lie they've been sold about their religion, where I stood on his behavior. One person representing the allies approached me afterwards and said "we agree with you if it makes you feel better."

I don't know if it's a guy thing or a generational trauma thing, but the general attitude is "that's just Dave, he won't change so why bother."

All this to bring me to the point I wanted to talk about at the start.

I'm part of the outgroup. I'm "part of the alphabet club," aroace. As such I sympathize with the LGBT community and view slights on them as slights on me, because they are.

I've delt with the bigots before, and typically it's at a distance so I can just turn up my music. Lately though it's been right in my face, from literally every direction. My immediate coworkers, the folks in the areas next to me, the folks on my way to other places, people in the cafeteria at the same time as me, MY DIRECT SUPERVISOR.

These ass hats I work with directly have the gual to complain about other people fighting against bigotry and hate when I had to talk to the manager on their behalf because they felt belittled by being told "alright, back to work" after our first break meetings.

I want to dissolve into the furniture. To just escape the needless hatred of ignorant people who refuse to learn.

One of them told me he just "couldn't read books" as they were too taxing.

He is one of the most competent men I have ever worked with in 15 years in this industry. Yet, despite his own disability (tourette syndrome), and despite being made fun of for it behind his back, he is one of the most hateful people I have met.

You are the diversity hire dipshit.

Let me evaporate and dream no more. Let me escape the burden of other people's thoughts.

[hangmanbradshaw]

Fanfic Writer Emoji Ask

🤡 What's a line, scene, or exchange you've written that made you laugh?

🎶 Do you listen to music while you write? What song have you been playing on loop lately?

⛔ Do you have a fic you started, but scrapped?

💖 What made you start writing?

❌ What's a trope you will never write?

🤩 Who is your favorite character to write?

🤲 Would you please share a snippet of a wip?

✅ What's something that appears in your fics over and over and over again, even if you don't mean to?

📚 Would you ever want to turn writing into a career?

💔 Is there a fic of yours that broke your heart?

omg you hit me with a challenge, I love it! Okay.

🤡 What's a line, scene, or exchange you've written that made you laugh? So many. Throwing in humor is my fave thing, but recently I was re-reading IWTBY and laughing at the scene where Bradley and Jake are spying on Mav and Ice's date like the worst spies in history.

🎶 Do you listen to music while you write? What song have you been playing on loop lately? I do not! I have to have total quiet to write, but I listen to so much music as inspo for when I am writing later. Right now I'm listening to TS as always (current song I'm obsessed with is I Almost Do) and Got Me Started by Troye Sivan thanks to ABY.

⛔ Do you have a fic you started, but scrapped? A couple. Started an ABY themed fic a few months ago that I might rework. A witch one. The baseball/football philly one that turned into IWTBY instead.

💖 What made you start writing?

I've always LOVED stories, like annoyingly good at guessing movies/books cuz I love how they're crafted and I just have an eye for it I guess? Anyways I never thought I could write, but my therapist recommended art therapy in some form and I thought, well, I'll try? And I wrote my mummy AU so fast and fell in love with it immediately. Here I am.

❌ What's a trope you will never write?

unhappy ending, major character death

🤩 Who is your favorite character to write?

🤲 Would you please share a snippet of a wip?

hehehehhee here you go:

His heart jumped into his throat, but he forced a smirk and said, “Me? I’m not the one torpedo-ing through a damn crowded bar.” He gave the man a long, hard look. He was just as hot as he remembered, maybe even more. He had on some ridiculous jorts and sneakers, and draped over his torso was the ugliest palm tree hawaiian shirt he’d ever seen. He raised an eyebrow as he asked, “What, gotta get to the Hawaii Five-O Convention?”

“Funny.”

“Bloody.”

The guy furrowed his eyebrows and said, “No, I said funny.”

“No.” He said with a roll of his eyes as he gestured at the side of the hawaiian monstrosity where a deep red was spreading. “You’re bleeding. What did you do, get attacked by a shark?”

“Oh.” Brown eyes blinked down at his side like he was just now realizing he was bleeding. He lifted the edge of his shirt up, and Jake tried not to salivate over the sliver of toned abs and happy trail that poked out, instead focusing his attention on the gash on the man’s side, over the cut of his hip. “Well, look at that.”

✅ What's something that appears in your fics over and over and over again, even if you don't mean to?

I very intentionally connect my worlds lmao but I realized recently I unintentionally use the phrase 'takes one to know one' in like....most of them lmao.

📚 Would you ever want to turn writing into a career?

That's the dream, isn't it? Imposter syndrome still says I can't, but hell maybe I should try? Won't know if I don't. (If I could write all day I'd be in literal heaven. It's seriously my fave thing)

💔 Is there a fic of yours that broke your heart?

in little ways. my twister au when they're getting divorced hurt ugh. parts of iwtby or even tree farm when they're broken up.

[an-abyss-of-stars]

✨Fic Updates!!✨

✵It's Visceral And It's Cruel✵

I'M SORRY!! Writer's block is a bitch and she has me by the throat!!! I've been stuck on this chapter for agessssss and I can't seem to move past the blockage!!

I've got like 2k words done for it and I'm struggling, I have all the plot points in my notes, I just can't seem to verbalize themmm, UGH frustrating 😭😭 I'm going to keep trying this weekend though!! It's an Aemond focused chapter, and I am excited for it, I just need to find an angle on it and then I'll be good!

I might've shot myself in the foot by not including him in the flashback/prologue parts 🤣🤣 Because now I kind of need to catch up with the feelings of his childhood that lead up into the character/man he's become...or I might just skip to his feelings that immediately occurred after his first interaction with Rhaena and deal with the rest later 🤔 we'll see.

-

☾ He Saw Her At Daybreak ☾

I'M doing a whole lot better with updating this fic! Idk what it is about smut/fluff that's just so much easier to write...well I do know...it's because there's no stress with this one 🤣🤣

Anywaysssss, I've started ch.6, there will be a couple of time jumps in this one. Without spoiling too much, this chapter is definitely the start of the preggo Rhaena arc! She's going to start *showing* in this chapter, cravings might also start!! Overprotective husband Aemond is coming into play, as well as is the horny-preggo Rhaena arc!! I'm actually VERY excited! 😌💖

-

⚜️One Shots!⚜️

I'm going to blame this on my IVAIC writers block! But I've got a few Rhaemond plots that I really do want to write and I think they could definitely work as One Shots. They're ideas that either don't really work in either of my main fics, or they're not fully fledged ideas that could last for a multi-part series. So maybe I'll drop some! I figure most of them will have at least a little smut to them, knowing me they probably will 😂😂

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🔷Sequel Series!🔷

BUT FINALLY SPEAKING OF MULTI-PART FICS! If anyone remembers when I posted that little character bio for Vaella Targaryen from my Her Saw Her At Daybreak universe (Rhaemond's firstborn child...which by the way, I have another one ready to post in my drafts! Coming soon!) Anyways while I've been creating character art and personalities for all of their babies (6 in total at the moment) I started feeling SUPER attached to this next gen of Targ babies! And talking with a friend of mine who's been reading this HSHAD, I brought up the idea of possibly doing a Part #3 to this series!

So Rhaemond would still be the heart and soul of that fic. Except they'd be older and in a more Daemyra era position, like all 6 kids would be in their late teens/early 20s with their own shenanigans and drama, the chaos and wild love stories! We'd also have Jace and Baela's grown kids, Luke and Daenaera's (this ship will be hinted and shown during HSHAD) grown kids. We'd have grown Jaehaera, Jaehaerys, Aegon III and Viserys II too! Like I'm thinking a Bridgerton-type large family chaos mixed with GOT's general wildness, of course Targaryen incest is still a thing so expect some of those ships within this new gen 🤣🤣 but some of the kids will definitely fall for and make matches with other houses, Cregan will definitely make a return with his own son (and maybe more, if I have him marry someone and have more kids).

LIKE I can just see the potential!! 😂😂 Aemond's a very tired dad, his sons are wild, he's very overprotective of his daughters especially now that they're all of age and it's courting season 😂 Rhaena is the sweetest mom ever and she's handling courting season with their kids a whole lot better than her grumpy husband 😂😂 Daemyra stays ruling the kingdom and being the best grandparents 😂 Rhaenys and Corlys (Corlys might not be too present... I think Luke might be Lord of The Tides by this point ) will make appearances too!

So in a way it'd be like a trilogy! And I'm kinda super excited about it because it would all feel so complete if it was 💖✨💖

Idk if anyone would read this, but I hope y'all would! 😂😂