#wow that’s a lot of italicizations

[crybaby-bkg]

Incubus Dabi who is so used to being so charming and easy to slide inside the comfort of anyone’s bed, only to be brought to his knees by you—a succubus so old and grand and divine that he can’t even tell that you’re other. that you’re higher and greater than him in every way, shape, and form. that pins him so easily and makes him scream your name, gets him drunk enough on your scent and power that he forgets who, and what, he even is.

[ambrosiagoldfish]

Adam x third spouse part 3 I’m begging pookie ❤️

like a time skip to when Charlie appeared and proposed the idea

Benifit of the doubt Pt.4

Adam x 3rd Spouse! Reader

Warnings: General Adam TW’s, a little bit sad for a moment but it’s ok. Gn! Reader! honestly that’s about it I think?? Wow this is the first time it’s been this short in this series.

Part 1. Part 2. Part 3.

Request Box: Open

Word Count: 4617~

A/n: So… it’s been almost 2 months… whoops. In all seriousness though I’m sorry it’s been so long. I’ve just not been in the mood to write and a lot of stuff has been happening (which is finally over) and I’m glad I could finally post this. I was also, if I’m honest, nervous to post this, cause I’m not sure if everyone’s ready for the direction of the story. But I have made it clear that I wanted to do a time skip to the show at somepoint and decided to do it now! If you enjoy this, please let me know cause I’m really nervous about (Not my words of affirmation love language coming out-) ALSO to the requester, I know you said part 3, but I used it for part 4. I got your request as I was making part 3 soooo my bad. Hope you don’t mind tho <3 this will be the last part before the angsty finale (and maybe an epilogue)

Reblogs are always appreciated!

Anyways this was NOT beta read unfortunately, I tried to get as many errors out during the writing process so hopefully it’s fine. Also, there’s probably some words I might have wanted to italicize or make bold that aren’t, but I’m too tired to care honestly.

Tags: @tired-of-life-86 @nervoussystemss @qopia @lovelyemily @hcneyiced @v3r41ynn @ghostdoodlen @nxptvne-13 @ximenavc-che @edgyfluff @ericityyy @diffidentphantom @faimmm @slasher-whore69 @1-randomized @ozzersauce @fanlovedlt @alientee (if I forgot someone or you want to be added just tell me !!)

Days turned to weeks, to months, to years. Until eventually an eon had passed. An entirety filled to the brim with an indescribable happiness and love, threatening to spill over at any given moment. You loved Adam and Adam loved you.

To say it was all happiness would be a lie, there were some moments of sadness and pain, but all relationships were like that, even ones that lasted for eternity. You both always bounced back, apologize and moved on with a stronger bond than before. And you loved every second of it.

A lot has changed in these last few eons. Adam formed a band and is now the most popular guitarist in all of heaven. You both made new friends, some got into heaven while others were made there. Emily was one of these people to you, she looked up to you for being older than her. You’ve existed for almost all of human existence so, of course she’d look up to you.

Adam had also made new friends, his band members, some officials in heaven, but someone he’s grown close to recently was Lute. You're really happy about his friendship with Lute. She seems like a strong and loyal friend, someone that can keep him grounded while still encouraging him to be more himself. Overall, you really liked her.

How they became friends though is something… less tasteful for you. All the way back when Heaven and Hell had their first meeting on what to do with the surplus of sinners in hell causing an uprising. Neither side came to an agreement in the end, you do feel partially to blame for that, but you still stand by what you did.

You never returned to any of the follow up meetings

But Adam did, surprisingly to you. In the end, you were called to talk with Sera and Adam. You were told of the agreement between Heaven and Hell, about the yearly “cleanse” that Adam and his “Exorcists” would have to commit. At first you were shocked, sure, you didn’t have the best experience with sinners and especially with the rulers of hell, but was death really necessary? You didn’t know what to say, and Adam clearly saw this.

“Babe, you alright?” He puts his hand on your shoulder rubbing his thumb in circles. You place your hand on his.

“Yeah it’s just a lot to take in. Are we sure it has to be done… that way?”

Sera looked down in pain “they’re… uprising and are becoming to much of a threat to heaven.”

You sighed as Adam took you in his arms. Adam was fully aware that you don’t share the same sentiment towards sinners as he does. His hatred towards the unholy souls down in hell was brought about by events that you simply cannot understand. Which he is thankful for, he never would want you to experience what he did.

“If there isn’t anything else we can do then… I guess we have no choice. But I don’t want to… kill anyone, even if they are sinners.”

Adam holds you closer “You won’t have to,” you smile at him, the now familiar flickering of his LED mask meeting your gaze before softly frown “you ok?”

You nod, “yeah, just…I wish there was another way.”

-

That was it. Adam would take his exorcists down to hell to kill as many sinners as they could each year. Adam knew you didn’t want him to talk about it , he kept it as separate as he could from your life. You did have to attend meetings regarding it, as one of the very few people to know about it, that was your duty.

You were fine with having that part of the job. You weren't sure if you could kill someone, sinner or not. So, for the countless years to follow, you played your part with every new extermination, attending meetings to deal with the repercussions of each cleanse.

Adam would also have to attend the occasional meeting. Which is exactly what today was. Sera had called you both in to talk.

“Thank you both for coming. I have to inform you that you will be attending a meeting tomorrow.”

Adam groaned “What! Again? This is like the 4th fuckin’ one this week! Ugh fine! Where is it this time? halo city? Cherub towne” Adam’s voice mocked the locations you’ve both been sent to countless times with a high pitched voice. Even you have to admit that the meetings could drag a bit.

Sera's face turned into a slight grimace as she looks away from you both, she sighs and continues “The meeting will be in… hell.”

“What!” Both your voices raise in shock

“Sera, you know I don’t want to go down there again!”

“Why can’t you just send the other fucking dipshits who know about-“ Adam crossed his arms defiantly

“Stop,” Sera raises her hand toward you both “no one wants to go there, and I know you both especially don’t.” She pauses “But you both are the only available angels who know of the cleanse that aren't busy. Please… I understand your disdain but heaven’s business comes first.”

“Who are we even gonna be talking to -Wait a damn minute- Don’t fucking tell me we have to talk to him.”

“I'm sorry…” You all sat in silence for a moment before Sera begins to speak again, “But you both won’t have to worry about physically being there, we have prepared holograms for you, so neither of you would be in any danger.”

“I'll have an Angel escort you to the ‘meeting’ room tomorrow, please, get some rest. I’m sure you both have had a long day.”

With that, you and Adam went home, you were definitely not feeling well about the meeting, but the fact you wouldn’t actually be there calms your nerves a bit. You had to be a little honest with yourself, hell wasn’t really the issue for you, it was more so the people. Lucifer for one, that made you feel uneasy.

The next morning, you and Adam got ready, you had to motivate him a little. He was clearly not excited for this meeting like you. The entire way there he held you close, even though nothing could have hurt you it made him feel better knowing how close you were.

On the way there, you also got Adam some ribs, his favorite. You thought it would help his nerves a bit. Turns out, Lute was the one Sera assigned to escort you both there. That also made you both a little calmer knowing a mutual friend would be there.

The three of you waited in the ‘meeting’ room for a while, about an hour. At first you thought the meeting might had been canceled or moved and you just weren't told. But then, Lute walked up to you both.

“Sir! The Seraphim has told me to inform you that there’s been a change in plans!”

“What? The fucks that mean?” Adam said stuffing a rib into his LED mouth

“Lucifer won’t be attending the meeting, instead… his Daughter will be here in his stead.” Lute’s mask showed a continuous frown and stern expression as she spoke.

“Daughter?” Your voice shook a little. This was news to you, as long as you’ve existed you had never heard he had a daughter while in hell. You look over to Adam to see His LED eyes were wide in shock but his mask turned into a smile as he sighed.

“Phew boy, we sure dodged a big ass bullet, huh Sweetcheeks?” He laughed as his arm pulled you closer. The whole thing caused you to join in. Suddenly your nerves felt a lot better than before.

“When should she be arriving, Lute?”

“Within the hour.”

-

Adam scarfed down another plate of ribs as you all wait for the “princess of hell” to arrive. The entire time you just had to wonder what kind of person she’d be. The daughter of Lucifer and Lilith. The more you thought about it, the more bizarre it seemed.

But suddenly your thoughts were interrupted by the sliding doors opening to the meeting room and a girl steps in, asking if anyone is there.

“She can’t see us?”

“Yeah, Sera gave me a long ass lector on how this stuff works before we got here. Let’s see here…” Adam pushes a button causing a click to sound out as he says “Sup!”

The girl jumps back and falls to the floor, shocked by Adam’s sudden appearance in the room. She introduces herself as Charlie. Adam offers her to shake his hand, only for it to go through.

“Ha! I fuckin’ got you! Did you fucking see that? Good shit.”

You let out a slight laugh, as you sit and watch the meeting happen. Well, you say “meeting” but nothing about it seemed very professional. Adam for the last hour (you honestly wasn’t sure at this point) had been talking about the most random of things.

You or Lute occasionally shakening your head yes or no while listening to him, while Charlie seemed quite tired already. Not that you could blame her, people who weren’t used to Adam’s banter definitely weren’t cut out for it. But You love every word that comes out of his mouth.

Eventually Adam decides that it’s time to get into what you all came here for. Pulling out a bunch of papers, Charlie begins explaining her solution to hell’s overpopulation. You were only really half listening at first, at least before she mentioned that her solution could stop the extermination which peaked your interest.

She explains her “Hazbin Hotel” and its purpose to rehabilitate sinners, you wanted to hear more of it but Adam cut her off.

The meeting didn’t really go that well, At least for Charlie. But the whole thing left quite the impression on you. The idea of ending the extermination was stuck in your head for so long, and now you had someone who had an alternative.

“Adam, are you sure that it couldn’t have worked?”

Adam looks at you in surprise “What? Do you think that shitshow could have actually worked?” He laughed as he placed a hand on your back. “Don’t even pay it any mind, alright Babe?”

“I know, it’s just… you know I don't like the extermination. So another way to lessen the population of hell should at least be looked into.” Your voice was soft enough to barely hear.

Adam’s gaze softened but he didn’t say another word, only wrapping his wing around you pulling you closer. You lean towards him, snuggling into his soft robe. No matter how much you wanted to ignore it, you couldn’t. You needed to do something, anything.

So that night, after Adam fell asleep, you asked to talk with Sera. Leaving a note for Adam saying you went to buy something just in case he woke up.

“What is troubling you?” Sera’s voice was clear and concise.

You looked toward the ground, your nerves feeling tighter than ever, as you struggled with how to put your words together. “You're aware of all that happened in the meeting with Lucifer’s Daughter, right?”

Sera nods her head “of course, all meetings are documented about as they happen.” She tilts her head slightly “What about it?”

“Well!” You steel yourself before continuing “I would like permission to observe Charlie Morningstar’s ‘Hazbin Hotel’”

Sera’s eyes widen, breaking her calm demeanor before giving a firm “No”

“But-“

“It’s too dangerous for you to be there, Adam wouldn’t want that anyways”

“He would listen if it was an order from you!” Your eyes felt watery but you continued “Please Sera… I know you don’t want the extermination to continue. Just let me do this!”

Sera looked away from you, her feelings evident on her face, any mask now down. ‘Just a little more’ you thought

“Sera, I promise you, I’ll be careful! We don’t even have to fully support them yet, just let me observe them. It would be devastating if so many souls parish if we failed to seek all options!” You beg

Sera sighed, shakingly “…I’ll see what I can do.”

Your eyes gleamed up at the tall woman “Sera, thank you, thank you!” You wanted to hug her but out of courtesy, you advised against it.

Sera tells you that she can’t guarantee anything but she will try as she sends you home to rest.

-

A few days past after that and you haven’t heard anything from Sera. It was a little worrying and felt like a bad sign to you. That was, until you were informed by Sera that your request was accepted!

“But.” Sera stops you before you can celebrate “You're only there to keep track of the progress and to make sure nothing is happening under our noses” You nod your head in understanding

“Also…” she pauses “If anything involving this hotel happens, you will have to take full responsibility, understood?”

You nod again “yes I understand. Have you… told Adam yet?”

She shakes her head

“Ok… can you… not tell him it was my idea, please. I don’t think he’d agree if he knew.”

Sera sighs before nodding her head “Very well, I’ll tell him after you leave”

“Thank you.”

-

You return home, when you got back Adam was already gone, Sera must have already called him to the office. You dreaded when he got back. You didn’t want to see him upset, it hurt you to know how worried he was for you.

A few hours later, Adam comes through the door in a panic. He stomps up to you and pulls you into a warm and intense embrace.

“Don’t go down there. I need you here with me” his voice hitches as his wings wrap around you both, curling you both into a warm and feathery ball.

“Adam…” you paused, was this really the best thing to do? No, It had to be. If this goes well, not only will the extermination stop but Adam wouldn’t have to go down to hell ever again.

“Adam, you know I can’t go against Sera’s orders.” You kiss his cheek “and I won’t be gone forever, I’m only supposed to be there till the next cleanse. Not to mention, I’ll always come back to see you.”

Adam grumbled a little “I know, I just… don’t like you being in the same place that bastard is, and in his brat’s stupid hotel! ”

You laugh softly “Adam…” grabbing his hand, you put yours in it, showing off the gold ring on your finger “I’ll never forget my promise. You know that, right?”

Adam looks at the ring, the gold wrapped around your finger with a perfectly snug fit. Everytime he looked at it was just a reminder of your love for him. That promise was something he could never forget. He slowly raises your hand to his LED mask, kissing the back of it. “Of course not.”

“Good. I promise I’ll be fine, ok?”

He nods. Hand in hand, you slowly lead you both to the bed. The both of you lay next to each other, your bodies linked together like knots. You slwoly remove his helmet from his head, laying it on the nightstand.

Your hands move up his body before landing on his face, cupping his cheeks before pulling him to a kiss before snuggling into his chest.

-

Finally it was Time for you to leave. Sera allowed you to create portals back to heaven in case anything happened and you were in need of assistance. Adam walked you to the front gate.

“Ok, do you have everything? You didn’t forget that fucking angelic dagger I had Lute get for you right-“

You shush him “Adam, I told you I’ll be fine!”

He’s sighs “Damn it- I know that but just make sure to text me while your there ok-

You kiss him deeply “Adam. I know, you’ve told me a hundred times.” You smile as you cup his face “I love you”

He sighs “Love you too Sweetcheeks”

With one final kiss, you give Adam a tight hug before waving goodbye as you went through the flaming portal. As you went through, you take a second to look at your surroundings. In front of you was a tall building. You take a few steps back to see LED lights of a sign flashing the words ‘Hazbin Hotel’

You let out a sigh of relief. You had been a tad bit worried you’d spawn somewhere random and you’d have to find the building yourself. But it seems heaven at least spared you of that.

The red skies of hell were quite different from the pristine blue ones of heaven. Even though you just got here, you could already hear the sounds of screams and explosions in the distance. How welcoming.

You steel yourself and with three hard knocks to the door, you wait for someone to open it. Muffled Scurrying sounds of footsteps approach the door before it creaks open revealing the young blond woman in the doorframe, Charlie Morningstar.

“Hi! I’m-“

The door is slammed shut, Before opening again

“Be not afraid-“

It shuts again…

Well, this may be a bit harder than you initially anticipated. You go to knock again only for it to open once more. This time, the door doesn’t close again, instead the girl mutters a quick “Hi” before going quiet.

“Hello! I didn’t mean to scare you!” You give a small laugh before continuing “I believe we met a couple days ago?” You bring your hand towards her for a shake, to which she reciprocates.

“During the meeting with.. Adam? Right?” She grimaced when she mentioned Adam, which you decided to ignore, you simply smiled and nodded. ”but I don’t believe I caught your name?”

You tell her about yourself, about how your there to stay and monitor any progress the hotel may have. You made sure to pronounce ‘may.’ While you were hoping for this idea to show some kind of positive results, even you weren’t sure if it’d would work.

“Charlie? who’s at the door- WhatHolyShit-“ a woman with a red X over her eye suddenly shouts in surprise. You look over at her, She looked very familiar…

“Wait, you are-“

“Vaggie! Charlie’s sinner girlfriend! And you are?!” The woman known as Vaggie, highlighted the word sinner while performing a “be quiet” gesture with her hand. Your eyes widen a little at the ex-Angel in front of you but you simply smile a nod “I’m Y/n, I don’t believe we’ve met, yes?”

Look, lying is the last thing you’d want to do as a citizen of heaven but you figured that it would be fine if it was to protect someone. Vaggie nodded, her face scrunched up in a tense look.

“You feeling ok Vaggie? You’re looking a little… red?”

“I’m fine! *ahem*, Hun, how about you give them a tour of the hotel.”

Charlie gasped “Yes that's perfect, you may as well get acquainted with everyone if you’re going to be here more often!”

Charlie ran off, telling you “this way! This way!” Over and over. Before you went to follow her, you leaned toward Vaggie and said a quick “Relax, I won’t tell anyone.”

She lets out a sigh before muttering “Thank you”

You both follow Charlie as she shows you the various rooms in the hotel before leading you back to the hotel’s lobby and lounge area.

“Hey! Hello everyone!” Charlie’s voice picked up a little “I’d like to introduce you to our uh… new staff member?” You nod in agreement with the title. The room in front of you was shrouded in looks of both horror and amazement.

“What the hell’s an angel doin’ here?” A lanky spider demon spoke up first

“It’sss an ambush! seek Cover!!” The Snake demon shouted, seemingly grabbing an army helmet from thin air before taking a deep dive behind the couch.

“No Pentious-” She sighs “they’re here to monitor the hotel! Heaven sent them to scout any potential progress the hotel will have”

“It’s nice to meet you all” you look at the people in front of you, to say it was a colorful cast would be an understatement.

“These two are our current tenants of the hotel! Angel dust and Sir Pentious!”

The snake slithered slowly from behind the couch up to you, while the Spider demon remained rested on the couch

“Oh… *ahem* Excuse me dear! I am Sir. Pentious! Formally known as ‘the Architect of destruction’!” He laughs, a slight hiss sounding in his voice.

He offers a handshake which you accept. To which you immediately regret. ‘ Slimey’ you thought, before wiping your, now wet hand on your clothes.

The spider demon, who you now know as Angel Dust, just gives a wave with one of his 4 arms.

“And-“ Charlie extends the word as she quickly walk to a bar by the entrance “this is the recreational area, run by our Bartender, Husk!”

The winged bartender seemed entirely uninterested in your presence or even Charlie’s. The most you got was a small glance before he takes a swig of his alcohol and walks off.

“He’s not the most… social guy in hell” she awkwardly laughs before moving on to the next person. “And this is Nifty, our one and only maid at the hotel! Nifty say hi.”

The short woman scurried moved around you, her eye quickly looking at every every nook and cranny of you as she moved. She made numerous attempts to touch and grab various things on you, your clothes, wings, and eventually she tried to climb up you to get to your halo. That’s when you finally grabbed her in place “you're a… fast one, huh? Nice to meet you!”

“And last but not least! This is Alastor, the hotel’s executive producer and our first -and only- overlord sponsor!”

Immediately, you could tell there was something off about Alastor. The entire aura he gave off was as if he was restraining something completely and utterly ungodly. The static that surrounded him was just one of many whispers you could hear from his soul.

“Hello! It’s quite a pleasure to meet someone of your… holy status!” He offers a hand to which you, hesitantly, shake. “And what do we owe the pleasure for your service?”

“They’re going to be here to keep track of the progress of the hotel…” Charlie paused “you know I’m starting to sound like a broken record- here, it’s late, how about we all get some sleep and we can talk about it in the morning!”

“Fine by me, I am waaay too sober to be having social interaction this late” Angel picks himself up and stretches “I’m gonna hit the hay”

“Here I’ll show you to your room!” Charlie smiles “We -obviously- didn’t have time to make your own so I hope you don’t mind using one of the guest rooms” she laughs

She and Vaggie walks you to your new room before leaving you be, The room was nothing more than just your average hotel room. Of course it did have its differences, a multitude of… eyes seem to be on the wall, staring at you. Well, that’s not the least alarming.

You place your stuff down and begin unpacking, you mostly just brought the basics. Clothes, hygiene stuff, your phone, and, most importantly, a framed photo of Adam.

You sat the photo on your nightstand, angling it just right so that it would always be visible to you. As you do so, you think about the memory the photo brings, you took it on one of the first dates you went on with Adam. It was a relatively tame date, you and Adam, having a picnic by a lake at night. You brought candles so you both weren’t completely in the dark, and you just loved the way he looked, his golden eyes watching the water. The dim candle light illuminating his face with a warm golden shade. Adam hates photos of him with his mask off but… You just had to keep that moment in time forever.

*Ding* *Ding* *Ding*

Speak of the- well, you know the rest. The bright light from the phone comes with the notification sound displaying Adam in bold letters. You smile as you read his messages.

Dixkmaster69

Heyy Sweetcheeks, it’s been a bit since you left

You there??

Fucking answer

You let out a small laugh at Adam’s barrage of messages. He’s not used to you being away from him for more than a day, huh? Not that you could blame him, this is honestly nothing compared to how you feel each year he has to do the extermination.

Sweetcheeks

Hey love

Everything’s fine, I’m ok.

Aside from not having you with me :’(

Dixkmaster69

Fucking finally

You know you don’t have to do this

If I bitch enough to Sera I can get you back by tomorrow

Sweetcheeks

Please don’t, Sera already has enough on her plate.

I promise I’m going to be fine

I’ll be back before you know it.

Dixkmaster69

I know

This shit just worries me

Gonna miss hearing your sexy ass voice at night too ;)

You blush at the message before sighing. Whenever you or Adam approached a topic that made him uncomfortable, he would always try to change the subject to something that made him feel better. You knew why, Adam’s someone who rarely talked about his feelings, even after all these eons together that was something he hadn’t changed. You knew exactly what he needed, even if he didn’t explicitly tell you.

Sweetcheeks

I already miss yours too <3

Do you want to help me fall asleep with that heavenly voice of yours on the phone?

Dixkmaster69

Whatever you want Sweetcheeks <3

You smile when, almost immediately, Adam begins calling your phone. You click the lights off before You make your way in your new bed, not even bothering to change out of the clothes you’ve been wearing. You grab the cover and pull it over you and tapping the answer button.

“Sup”

You yawn “Hey handsome, I missed your voice”

You hear his voice hitch before he caused on “Of course you did, no one has a better voice than the dick master. But uh, yours is a close second”

You’re let out a tired giggle, “such a charmer, you. How’s your day been huh?”

“Oh! don’t even get me started on that- Lute took me to get some ribs to ‘calm my nerves’ or some shit and they had me, ME, wait in line for like 15 minutes! The fucking audacity!”

You smile to yourself as Adam tells you about his day, the sound of his voice was like a sweet lullaby to your ears and you couldn’t get enough of it. But eventually…

“And then when I got home, I couldn’t find my damn charger and it took me like 40 fuckin’ minutes to realize it was under our bed, do you have any idea of how it keeps getting there?” He waits for you to respond only to be met with silence. “Uh bitch, I’m talking to you.”

More silence… well no, actually if Adam focused on listening, he could hear the faint sound of your snoring from the phone. Adam sighs,”Long day, huh?”

Adam lays back in your shared bed, getting comfortable. He sets the phone beside him, plugging it in while keeping it on speaker. He yawns, “Goodnight Sweetheart, can’t wait to see you again”

Slowly, the soft sounds of both yours and Adam’s snores filled each others rooms, a distant, but intimate connection. Even in slumber, you couldn’t stop thinking of your handsome and caring soulmate.

[themswritinwords]

Mostly!

I've been in and out of doctors offices and the hospital for the past 2-3 months, which is in itself exhausting and not really conducive to writing. Add in the end-of-year holidays coming up, at least four more appointments in the next month, my child's first ever dance recital and all the prep that entails (way more than I thought), a cross-country trip to visit family, and some other personal stuff on top of all that, and I might still be a bit absent. I'm hoping by the second week of January I'll be back to some kind of routine, which hopefully means being more active here too. (Gotta build that dying-platform social media, amirite?)

But! Despite losing approximately 1/3 to 1/2 of my blood volume in the space of a month (0/10 do NOT recommend), I did actually get stuff done. Important stuff! I did DVpit on Discord, got requests, and actually got those sent out before the major hospitalization adventures. I polished up a finished manuscript and actually got it out to some beta readers. Excitingly, I also got my first two full requests ever, and got those sent off with minimal freaking out and rethinking my entire everything.

No word on the fulls yet, but the beta readers are all coming back with the same kind of feedback:

"engaging," "couldn't put it down," "hysterical," "cinematic," "powerful," and my personal favorite, "WOW." (if i had a nickel for every all-caps WOW i got on this manuscript, I'd have 3 nickels; which isn't a lot but it's weird exciting that it happened 3 different times)

Okay, I lied. My personal favorite was the single, solitary, italicized, "Holy shit."

So for once I'm feeling pretty good about myself and my writing! And that's in spite of one of my worries for this manuscript coming true: I got some details wrong and the Car People noticed. And yet! Despite something being egregiously wrong, they said they didn't care because the story was "so engaging it didn't matter." (Still gonna fix it, though. Now that I know, those inaccurate spark plugs will haunt me.)

I also managed to dust off an old project-- my oldest to date that's still functional as a story-- and figured out how to fix all the problems that led me to shelve it in the first place. I have a plan. I have a workable outline. I fixed the stagnant characters and plot and the massive plot holes all at once with minimal scrapping and without trashing my most favorite (and compelling) aspects.

Most importantly, I'm excited to work on it.

After finishing this latest project and then having my whole body fall apart piece after piece for almost a full quarter of a year, it feels like I haven't wanted to write in a long time, let alone been excited to do so. But here I am, getting words down and dusting off Spotify playlists. It feels really, really good.

So here's to the next few months. They might still be rocky and stressful, but I'm recovering in more ways than just the physical. I hope the end of the year brings you joy and peace in whatever ways you need it most, and that the new year finds you well and, most importantly, happy. If not, please know I'm here for you and rooting for you. My askbox and DMs are always open. <3

[the-maidofgevaudan]

Midsummers- JJ Maybank

requested: Yes. Hey babe! I have a request for jj x kook!reader <3. Just like she's not a kook turned pogue like sarah, she's everything a kook is (except she's not an asshole lol) and yet her and jj are dating and no one understands how since they're total opposites, but they just love eachother so much and it works. Maybe if you want write some angst into it if you want, since what i gave you is just a scenario an not really a plot. But always a fluff ending! :) <3

a/n: I enjoyed writing this so much. The italicized words are the reader thinking back to a year ago. GIF not mine- creds to owner. Lots of fluff. No warnings beyond what is shown in the show.

word count: 1.2K

It had started out as a way to defy your parents. You had never expected to actually like the blonde-haired, surfer, kleptomaniac that was JJ Maybank. He was undeniably attractive- those washboard abs, strong arms from the years of random odd jobs, and eyes so blue you could practically drown in them. Being physically attracted to JJ was a no brainer, but coming to adore the rough around the edges pogue took you by surprise. Once you broke through the tough guy persona he embodied ninety-five percent of the time you found out he was incredibly loyal to a fault and emotional even. You would like to say it was his soft side that won you over, but truth be told you liked that JJ was reckless. You were pretty sure that the moment you fell in love with JJ, was when he knocked the shit out of Topper at Midsummer’s a year ago. 

You had on the new white dress your mother had bought you for the occasion when there was a knock at the door. “I’ll get it!” you called out through the house. Upon opening the front door you were met with those deep blue eyes. “JJ”

“Wow. You look- hot.” He breathed out taking in your appearance. 

“You have a way with words JJ Maybank.” You said tilting your head at him and giving him a look. 

The moment was broken up by your mother coming to the door to see who had come by. “Ah, JJ, you made it.” She said in what was her best attempt at not sounding disappointed. 

“I wouldn’t have missed this for the world ma’am.” JJ replies not missing a beat causing a small laugh to escape your lips. 

You all had rode over to the venue in your parents' car. Your mother continuously nagging you on the way over- ‘adjust your flower crown,’ ‘don’t forget to talk to the Thornton’s,’ ‘did you even put any makeup on?’ ‘Speak to the Carrera girl- it will make us look more charitable.’

Seeing JJ’s growing frustration with your family and your mothers blunt comment about his friend you grabbed his hand and gave a few squeezes. You knew he hated the idea of coming to Midsummer’s, but after a week of begging he had given in and allowed you to buy him a suit. He took a few deep breaths and squeezed your hand back letting you know he was okay. 

He was much better when you finally arrived. His friend, Heyward’s son, was there helping his dad cater and he disappeared to go speak to him. JJ promised he would come find you shortly, so you decided to make your rounds by speaking to all the families present. Your mother played a large role in planning Midsummer’s so you were expected to also play host. 

You had spoken to Kelce’s parents, the Thornton’s, Smith’s, and were making your way over to Ward and Rose Cameron when Topper stopped you in your path. 

—----------------------------------------------------------

“I see you’ve gone full kook on us.” Pope mocked JJ. 

JJ laughed and shook his head, “Just enjoying a little bubble wrap.”

“You look miserable in that suit. J, why are you still with this girl? You hate these events- we all do. When you started seeing her we all assumed it was just for a hook-up. Me and JB gave it 3 weeks before you’d decide to let her go. You’re at Midsummer’s bro- this is the lion's den, and you’re mixed up in the middle of it.”

“She’s different Pope. I mean yeah- she’s a kook and I mean full kook. She has a coffee order that takes 5 minutes just to order, she is constantly trying to get me to dress better, she can never get ready in less than an hour, and I pity the waiter that has to tend to her needs because there’s never a meal that doesn’t need adjusting. She also somehow isn’t ashamed of me though, she makes me calm, and she makes me want to be better.”

“JJ, are you in love?” Pope mocks him.

JJ gives Pope a shove- “I like her.”

“No- you are embarrassingly in love with her. You are sweating your ass off in a suit at Midsummer’s talking about your feelings- i’m pretty sure that counts as love.”

“JJ? What the hell are you doing here?” Kiara calls to the boys as she approaches in a purple silk dress. 

“Nice costume.” JJ remarks back.

“I could say the same to you.” She says with a smirk.

“He’s still seeing the kook from the beach that day.” Pope informs Kie

Kie gives JJ an incredulous look- “seriously?”

“I get why you guys don’t understand it, but we work alright.” JJ gives the two pogues a serious look and begins to walk off to find you.

—--------------------------------------------------------

“Nice dress.” Topper says looking you up and down. 

You roll your eyes, “Thanks Top. You looking for Rafe? I heard he’s giving out bumps in the men's locker room.” You smirk.

He takes a step towards you so that you’re standing close enough for him to whisper to you, so no one else hears, “It would be best for you to keep that information to yourself. You wouldn’t want me to go around informing everyone you’re sleeping with trash.”

You scoff, “You are such an asshole. You can tell whoever you want about me and JJ. If you’re still jealous though, just say that.” You give the boy a challenging look.

He grabs your arm aggressively, “You are a slut and that’s all you’ll ever be.”

“Stop it Topper. Get your hands off of me.” You say trying to pry your arm from his grip. You look around for help, but of course no one is paying attention. Why would they be? Two of Figure Eight’s brightest and best just having a close conversation- everyone on this side of the island were always trying to push you two together. 

“Hey Power Puff Girl- she said to get off of her.” JJ said coming out of nowhere and swinging his fist towards Topper's face. 

That was the end of it because as soon as JJ’s fist connected with Topper’s face- he was on the ground. Security quickly rushed over to escort JJ out and no matter how much you protested they just kept pushing him towards the exit. Your parent’s insisted on you staying or you would have kept on walking out with JJ. He gave you a final wink and smirk on his way out and that was the moment he stole your heart. You told him you’d call him later and the rest was history. 

“What are you thinking about over there?” JJ asks as he approaches you on the hammock at the Chateau. 

“Just the time you knocked Topper on his ass in front of all of Figure Eight.” You said with a smile. “I am pretty sure it’s the moment I fell in love with you.”

He gives you a soft smile and joins you on the hammock pulling you into him and whispers into your ear, “I love you.”

[romanovsonelastdance]

Also a Russian article about Alexander and Olga Nikolaevna: (so that it would not be difficult for you, translation)

Speaking about the loves of Grand Duchess Olga Nikolaevna, it is impossible to ignore this one. Probably, it was a very short infatuation – maybe just a WILLINGNESS to fall in love – but it was this feeling that had every chance of getting continued. After all, Olga finally liked an equal in position: the prince of a foreign power.

In December 1913, Olga realized that her "sun" was Pavel Voronov (more?) he does not reciprocate her, and made several emotional entries about him in his diary, using a secret cipher. His behavior confuses and worries her, feelings are looking for a way out... on December 21, the denouement follows: "I found out that my S. is marrying Olga Kleinmichel. God send him happiness, my beloved S. It's hard. Sadly. He would be pleased." Olga also encrypted this entry. It would seem that the time has come to immerse yourself in experiences for a long time, but after a few weeks the mysterious cipher appears in the diary again. And if earlier he hid only declarations of love for Voronov, now Olga writes about something else (further encrypted fragments are italicized): "January 12. Alexander Serbian arrived (In Russian uniform. Wow, what eyes). January 15th. At 9:00, my Dad and Aunt and I went to St. Petersburg for the consecration of the new church of the Fedorovskaya Mother of God in honor of the 300th anniversary. It lasted from 10 to 1 ¼. Metropolitan, etc. A bright, large, good church. I was standing next to Alexander the Serbian, he was a little further away. Wow, wow what. January 17th. We had breakfast with Dad, Aunt, Kostya and Alexander. I sat with him. Cute, embarrassing and beautiful horror. Wow wow what. January 19th. Mom I don't know how. I fell asleep after 3 hours at night.  God save her and everyone , and Alexander S. January 23. After in the Winter Courtyard. a big breakfast. Then we talked. I've been with Alexander for quite a long time. God save him. The 25th of January. We had breakfast with Papa, T. Olga, gr. Fredericks and Alexander S. He came to say goodbye. He's leaving in 2-3 days, it's a pity, dear."

Alexander Karageorgievich was 7 years older than Olga. He had a lot to do with Russia: he had Russian tutors, was the godson of Alexander III and the named son of Nicholas II; studied at the School of Jurisprudence and in the Page Corps in St. Petersburg.  He became heir to the throne in 1909, after his elder brother George was forced to give up his rights to the throne under the pressure of a scandal. In the same year, Alexander almost asked for the hand of Princess Tatiana Konstantinovna. The Serbian minister and even the father-king personally made a cautious reconnaissance on this matter. But to the Konstantinovichs, the position of the Karageorgievich dynasty on the throne seemed too shaky. K.R., Tatiana's father, wrote in his diary: "I told her in detail about the claims of the Serbian court and about the reasons prompting us to advise her to refuse this offer. Although she rather likes Sandro Serbian, she did not hesitate to give him up." However, a year later the families still became related: Alexander's sister Elena married Grand Duke John Konstantinovich. For the Karageorgievichs, this was a great success, because they took the throne only in 1903 by a coup. In Europe, they were not really recognized, and not all Romanovs were disposed to them. In 1912-13, Alexander managed to show valor in the Balkan wars. And then he thought about getting married again, but now he was interested in the daughter of the tsar himself. ONLY WHICH ONE?

In this newspaper for November 1913, it was suggested that Olga would become the wife of Alexander of Serbia, and Tatiana – Karol of Romania. On the other hand, the English Wikipedia, with reference to Serbian archives, assures that Prime Minister Nikola Pasic wrote to Nicholas II in January 1914 about Alexander's intention to marry one of the Grand duchesses. Nikolai did not object and even noticed the interest that his daughter showed in the prince – but it was allegedly not Olga, but Tatiana. (And Russian Wikipedia generally assures: "Tatiana and Alexander wrote letters to each other until their death. When Alexander found out about Tatiana's murder, he was confused and almost committed suicide").Alexander's sister Elena, in her memoirs, which I have not yet been able to find, seemed to say that she noticed some "chemistry" between Alexander and Olga. Well, Olga's diary allows us to conclude that Alexander was not indifferent to her, and I think the Serbian heir himself paid attention to her.  You can only guess what prevented you from taking the next step.In the spring, Olga is fond of Molokhovets, then the war begins, but all this does not prevent her from remembering Alexander on various occasions:"February 24.At 12 o'clock my mother received the Bavarian, Belgian, Danish and Serbian envoys (Nalajovic. So reminds Alexander C).February 25.(in small print: I haven't seen Alexander for a month since)March 25.I haven't seen Alexandra for 2 months. <...>(added, apparently, later) I haven 't seen Alexander S. for 2 months .September 4.The Pope gave Alexander of Serbia the St. George Cross 4 art . I am very happy. God help me.October 6.John, Gabriel and Kostya and Elena had lunch. They told me a lot of interesting things. She's a piece of Alexander, and I love her.October 16.At 7 o'clock we went to the infirmary with Mom, we went to everyone, and talked to K. and I. in the corridor. Everyone knows Alexander by his body."

Alexander was a thin brunette with a mustache and large facial features (and with "WOW" eyes) – this is exactly the type of appearance that has always attracted Olga. Besides, apparently, he was a really nice person. "The prince turned out to have a kind and friendly character," writes the grandson of his tutor, the famous priest Gleb Kaleda. "To please his tutor, the prince wrote to him in Russian, asking for forgiveness in advance for possible mistakes, although there were none." He was remembered as a tactful person, sometimes shy and prone to melancholy, a lover of reading – there is some similarity with Olga's character.Olga did not see Alexander again, but a year later she noted in her diary the anniversary of his arrival:"January 12, 1915.The year that I saw Alexander at Vsevolod's christening.January 15th.The year is consecrated. churches. Alexander.January 17th.Mordvinov and Count Fredericks were having breakfast. And a year ago Alexander. God bless him."It seems that even in the spring of 1916, Pasic expressed the hope that Olga would become the Serbian queen. But in January of this year, the date of the meeting with Alexander was not noted in the diary. At this time, Olga hardly thought about anyone other than Dmitry Shah-Bagov. (By the way, here her fate again intersects with the fate of Tatiana Konstantinovna, who was very friendly with the elder daughters of Nicholas II. Instead of the Serbian prince, she married a simple Caucasian officer for love, and he even served in the Erivan regiment – like Olga's lover. Because She even knew Shah Bagov and calls him a "cute, cute boy" in a letter. Surely Olga was thinking about what could repeat her path).But in 1917 Olga remembers again:"January 17th. Exactly 3 years ago today Alexander Serbsky had breakfast with us." Here the name is also written in cipher, and this is the last encrypted entry in the diary.

Olga Nikolaevna's biographers like to repeat that she wanted to stay in Russia, so she did not marry the Romanian heir Karol. The interest in Alexander the Serbian shows that, most likely, it was not in the country: it was just Karol who was unsympathetic to Olga. I think she understood that sooner or later she would have to leave her homeland. It is unlikely that the rumors had passed her by, she knew who her husbands were supposed to be, and she did not mind falling in love with a cute Orthodox prince. Maybe by the beginning of 17, she returned to thinking about him because someone had dispelled her hopes for a happy morganatic marriage? Although what could be a wedding when the revolution is already at the threshold. What kind of fate would await her in a small semi-literate kingdom, forever torn apart from the outside and from the inside?Alexander married in 1922 the sister of the same Karol (there is a version that he dragged on for so long, because until then he did not believe in the death of Olga).  It seems that he became a good family man, ruled his country for more than 10 difficult years. Yugoslavia in the 20s became a fragment of the Russian Atlantis, the center of white emigration. Sometimes there is an opinion that Alexander was so supportive of Russian refugees in memory of his first love – "Olga/Tatiana." But I think Russia meant a lot to him anyway. Alexander was killed in 1934 by a terrorist, his family fled the Nazis during the war and never returned to their homeland. Well, instead of Maria, Olga could become a Romanian widow and exile… No matter how her fate turned out, it would not be easy. The time of the Slavic monarchs has passed.

Thank you for sharing!!

[outsiders-apo]

Hello again!

Sorry, I forgot that you wouldn't know what I meant by 'text'. I, and at least a few other voices here can see you like text on a screen. When you started being able to talk to us without Owen, it appeared like another screen option to click on. The text appears different for each person talking too. On your screen, you talking appears as plain black text, as does Owen on his. When we see you through the other's screen though, your text is red and his is orange. Rasbi appears purple on both screens. The text can be different sizes, bolded, or italicized depending on the tone of what you say.

The glitched text, however, is covered in strange symbols and glitches that trail off to the top and bottom, often obscuring other text. It is visibly very different from any other text.

Also, since it seems different for every voice, I thought I'd share? I do have a lot of other screens I can interact with. Hundreds of thousands, actually, and most of them I have never clicked. Some are text, like yours, and others are like videos. Some allow me to interact, and others I am merely a spectator. A lot of them are from entirely different worlds, or maybe universes, as well. Where the rules are different for life and sometimes even death is considered a temporary minor annoyance. On many occasions I have encountered multiple of the same person, too! In different worlds, and leading different lives, but unmistakably the same person with same name and face. Usually, they aren't aware of any other versions of themselves, but there are exceptions.

There are many voices out there like me too, I have encountered tens of thousands, even in just the 15-20 worlds I've seen.

Wow, this got a lot longer than I originally intended. Sorry about any potential information overload. -Purple Voice

Hey, Purple Voice! This looks like a lot, so I'm just gonna respond to it as best I can, yeah?

...Okay, first off: you see how we talk through text on a screen. That's... interesting. I guess I always assumed you could hear us? The colored text thing- that's really interesting. So I showed up as a separate application of sorts? Another page from Owen's? I guess that makes sense, as does the colored text thing. If I'm on Owen's screen, you guys would need a way to differentiate, as well as him on mine. So it sounds like the black text is kind of the default for whoever's talking, whoever's in charge? And Rasbi is purple. Interesting.

Woah, so if I STARTED YELLING REALLY LOUD, it would look different than if I were to whisper? Interesting. Really really interesting.

Oh, I remember the glitched text- that's what it looks like to you when Owen gets all static-y. Yeah. "Strange symbols"... huh. Is it anything like Vex Voice? Because I've noticed that Vex Voice sounds different from all the others too. Not static-y like the apparent "glitched text", but more... warbly, kind of. Like you're hearing them from underwater.

Oh! What it's like for you as a Voice! Yeah, I was always a little bit confused by that. You all seem the same to us, how can you all be so different? Some of you are ghosts, some of you are real people with real lives- it's a little bit crazy, the diversity among you. It sets my head reeling a little bit, I'll be honest.

"Other screens"... and you described talking to Owen and talking to me as "screens". Gotcha.

That's... that's a little bit crazy, actually. I'm guessing our screens are the text variety, from what you've said? That's actually insane. I can't imagine... hundreds of thousands? I have never... that's a little bit concerning, actually. That makes my head hurt, thinking about that.

Death as a minor annoyance? What?! That's... holy shit, man, that's certainly something else. Multiple of the same person? Are there... are there more than one of me? More than one Owen?

Wait. Holy shit.

Pastry Voice- I overheard them talking to Owen the other day, mentioning how one of his "brothers" had just gotten a "happy ending." Is that... is this what they meant by that? That's... this is a lot, but in a good way, a really good way! This is ridiculously helpful, Purple Voice, you have no idea. This... yeah, this really opened my eyes.

Wow.

That's... a little bit- a lot bit actually. That's ridiculously out of this world insane crazy.

And no worries about information overload- this was all super helpful. Thank you so much.

...

Wow.

[patorucho]

My @mcytblraufest gift for @sleepiestslooth !

[Image 1 ID: Art of Empires!Jimmy, holding his hand up in distress. Yellow italicized text at the bottom reads: "Scott!" Jimmy yelled. End ID]

[Image 2 ID: Art of Empires!Scott, frozen without emotion. Yellow italicized text at the bottom reads: But he was given the cold shoulder. End ID]

AU Context and non text versions under the cut!

So this AU is called Salmons, it was supposed to be a short web comic about Flower Husbands but I scrapped it because I didn't have time and Empires was moving too quickly

Wow hi hi hi!! I hope I did the Image IDs well because it took me a while to write one that made sense.

Also I was kinda stupid and didn't read the little to no canon compliance, but it's fine since the story has it's own direction after canon. You don't know how anxious I am making this post lol ×_×;

For context of the scene, Jimmy just stumbled upon Scott's ice palace and found Scott frozen. I guess I wanted Scott to have a "true love melts a frozen heart" scene which made the idea of the comic (this scene is the backbone of the idea lmao) and always had a small headcanon before he came back to Rivendell in canon that instead he'd turn frozen solid.

And so I made a plot for the eventual lead up, Jimmy was going to go to Scott's house to ask something (I wasn't sure what), and accidentally set off the traps Sausage and fWhip made. He panics and tries to find Scott to apologize for blowing up his house, getting a poppy to sweeten the apology. Then he finds the palace and this scene happens. The aftermath of this scene will be reblogged and the ending of the au just kinda leads up to cheesy FH stuff, like them being together up until the finale where they die together and find each other again in my 3rd Life AU (Poppy Garden).

For why it was called Salmons, the original name was supposed to be Red Herrings. Mainly because the comic was going to have a lot of red herrings leading up to the ending. But I guess the title was too on the nose so I went with salmons (my logic at the time was, salmon = red fish, herring = fish, x_x)

I'll be reblogging this with the ending and aftermath of this scene! Just to understand why I wanted so much twists in the comic in the first place.

Have a nice day!!

[xbunny-k]

The Actor & I: PART SEVENTEEN – I Just Don’t Know How to be Single

This is part SEVENTEEN of a very long, SLOW BURN series on Austin Butler and a Production Assistant on set of Elvis (2022).

Masterlist here!

Another short one, but Part 18 will drop tomorrow ✨

Anything italicized is main character’s thoughts!

Warnings: Fluff, eventual Spoilers for Elvis (2022), mild language (If i missed anything, please comment so i can add!)

Tags: @manddor @pumkiinpasties​ @its-funny-til-its-not​ @karamelcoveredolicity @butlerstyles @feral4austinbutler @mirandastuckinthe80s @emilykolchivans @atombombbibunny @francescababy @starry-night-20 @yeetfack-blog @milaa24 @londonalozzy @xo-aurora @chaoticbilly @mamaspresley @sageskywalker (Let me know if you’d like to be added!)

Please, if you like this, share it, comment, like it and enjoy! xx

Panic rushes over me. I feel my face react without even thinking. They broke up? They’ve been together forever. Poor Aus. I grab his hand and look at him even though he’s looking down and say, “Aus, I’m so sorry. Are you okay?” He takes a deep breath and rubs my hand. The light changes and I continue forward, but still keep my hand in his.

I can tell he’s trying to think of what to say, and I whisper, “You don’t have to say anything, or you can just tell me anything you’re thinking or feeling. I’m here as your friend and if you just need to get things off your chest, I’m here, Aus.”

I can see Austin relax a bit and he squeezes my hand a bit. “We’ve been fighting a lot. And I’m about to just through myself into work like I never have before, and it just feels like it’s too much. We were only fighting the last few weeks. There’s been no easy times. I’m not giving up, but I just don’t feel like I could keep on like that with all this work I’m about to put in both mentally and physically,” he says firmly, but almost as a whisper.

We come to a light and I look over at him. He looks serious and just so sad, almost defeated. “Aus, it’s okay to put yourself first. You know your limits and what you need in your life right now,” I say. He looks up at me as if he’s looking for something.

Did I not say enough? I don’t want to push him…but I want to offer support. Just try to stay neutral, Ana. If they get back together, you don’t want him resenting anything you said. “It’s just so hard. We’ve been together through so much… She encouraged me to go after Elvis. She filmed my initial tape,” he says in a defeated voice.

“I didn’t decide this on a whim, it’s been a longtime coming with us. I just wanted to end it so we can look back nicely at what we had. I don’t want to let the arguing be what we remember about each other,” he says quietly. I squeeze his hand and let go, “Hold on,” I say as I make a quick U-turn. I grab a spot and look over at Austin, “follow me, Aus.”

We both get out of the car and Austin looks confused. We climb down some rocks, and I head over to one of my favorite spots. When we get to the edge, I look back at Austin and he smiles, “This is perfect, wow.” He sits down and I join him on the rocky cliff as we look out over the dark ocean. There’s not a ton of lighting, so the ocean looks dark and a bit scary.

We sit in silence looking out at the Pacific Ocean, but eventually I look over at Austin and say, “It’s good to get out while you know you’re both ready for something new, but don’t dislike each other or have ill will towards one another.” I sigh and look back at the ocean. Austin lets out a deep breath and rubs my shoulder again. He looks over at me and moves a strand of hair out of my face.

What is that? Ana, stop blushing.

I try to calm myself down on the inside as I can feel my cheeks warming up. Austin says, “I just don’t know how to be single. I’ve been with her my entire adult life pretty much.” I smile at him, “This is the best time to learn. You’re about to go through the biggest moment of your career and while I know you’d love to have her there to share it with, but you’re gonna learn so much about yourself while on this journey. It may be the best time to be single.”

He smiles and pulls me into a side hug, “You always know what I need to hear, Anastasia.” Why do I love it when he says my full name? “I’m really happy I’ll have you as a friend while we’re working on the movie,” Austin says. Friend, Ana. A friend. You’re a co-worker and a friend, remember that.

“I can’t wait, Aus. It’ll be great. For both of us,” I giggle. Austin gets up and holds his hand out to me, “Now what do you say we pick up some food and get back into your version of Scrabble?” I smile and take his hand, “after you, Mr. Presley.”

[monowires]

Big profile textpost about my personal canon Shepard! There is a Lot of stuff under the readmore (I added the readmore so that y'all don't have to scroll 3,000ft to get past my post), just warning you.

COMMANDER JOHN SHEPARD

PRONOUNS: he/him | SEXUALITY: Gay | BIRTHDAY: April 11, 2154

AGE: 29 (ME1), 31 (ME2), 32 (ME3)

ORIGIN: Earthborn | BACKGROUND: Sole Survivor | CLASS: Adept

COMBAT ROLE: Long-Range Offensive Support

WEAPON SPECIALIZATIONS: Sniper Rifles (Primary), Assault Rifles & Handguns (Secondary)

DOES NOT USE: SMGs, Shotguns

BIOTIC SKILLS (ITALICIZED = MOST USED; BOLD = MOST PROFICIENT): Backlash, Barrier, Cluster Grenade, Flare, Lash, Pull, Reave, Shockwave, Singularity, Slam, Throw, Warp

NOTE 1: Backlash is a ME:A exclusive skill, but I like it so much (and am somewhat salty about it not being in the trilogy), so in my canon, Shepard knows this skill. I also felt it was unrealistic to confine him to 8 skills; while this is a gameplay mechanic, canonically there technically wouldn't be a limit on skills he can learn.

NOTE 2: He is also capable of deploying a spherical biotic shield (much like the ones deployed by asari, or by Cora in the beginning of ME:A). Because his specialization is long-range offense rather than defense, this exhausts him relatively quickly; it is something he only discovers via protecting his squad in a situation that would've otherwise killed them.

Shepard's combat style differs from that of a Vanguard or even most Adepts in that he prefers to maintain distance. He occupies a support-esque offensive role, backing his squad with sniper fire while deploying his biotics from range. Having trained for many years (both in- and outside of the N7 program), he has a refined control over his biotics and thus is capable of devastating the enemy with biotics regardless of the space between them. His most often used combat method is to deploy a Singularity field from range before picking them off with his sniper rifle.

Originally, Shepard was outfitted with L3 implants. During the Lazarus project, he was equipped with L5x implants. This upgrade allowed him to expand his arsenal of biotic skills. Though he lacked access to Alliance training facilities, he trained himself in these new skills with help from the many biotics aboard the SR-2. It was after his revival that he learned the skills Flare, Reave, and Slam.

MASS EFFECT 1 SPECIFICS:

MORALITY (BEGINNING OF GAME): Paragon (roughly 90% paragon, 10% renegade).

MORALITY (END OF GAME): Paragon (roughly 80% paragon, 20% renegade).

COMBAT DISPOSITION: Pacifist; violently capable, but often disinclined to engage in combat unless given no other choice.

GENERAL DISPOSITION: Though not optimistic to the point of ignorance, Shepard has a relatively bright outlook on his future. He has finally crawled out of the shadow of Akuze and reestablished his footing serving as Lieutenant-Commander on the Normandy SR-1. Though the images given to him by the Prothean beacon leave him troubled, it is more of a motivator than anything; Akuze left him without a sense of purpose, and stopping Saren/the Reapers allows him to have a central focus again.

He does, however, have a ruthless side, holding the mentality that sometimes the only way to get rid of a problem is to get rid of it.

RELATIONSHIPS: Shepard establishes a casual friendship with all of his crew; he does not consider himself a social person, though, and often avoids close relationships. Early on, he does develop a small crush on Kaidan, though it's more of a "wow, he's good looking" than anything else. He becomes close friends with him, growing to trust him outside of their Alliance-related relationship. Though his feelings deepen, both regulations and fear of rejection prevent him from ever acting upon them, and he is content to just be friends.

MAJOR CHOICES:

Recruited all potential companions/allies.

Saved the entire colony on Feros.

Released the Rachni Queen on Noveria.

Spared Balak on X-57.

Talked Wrex down on Virmire.

Saved Kaidan on Virmire.

Kept Kirrahe alive on Virmire.

Told Saren that Sovereign would betray him, avoiding the first half of his boss fight.

Saved the Council.

Chose Anderson as humanity's representative.

LESSER CHOICES:

Killed Fist himself.

Saved Rita's sister.

Intimidated Helena Blake into disbanding her gang.

Disabled the Rogue VI on Earth's Moon.

Hung up on the Council only once, after being challenged/taunted for saving the Feros colony.

Chose Renegade options in Garrus's dialogues.

Gave Tali the Geth data.

Recovered Wrex's family armor.

Completed all smaller assignments (i.e. the collection assignments or smaller tasks pertaining to NPCs).

MASS EFFECT 2 SPECIFICS:

MORALITY (BEGINNING OF GAME): Paragade (roughly 65% paragon, 35% renegade).

MORALITY (END OF GAME): Paragade (roughly 75% paragon, 25% renegade).

COMBAT DISPOSITION: Abrasive; prefers to shoot first, but does not stand for needless violence.

GENERAL DISPOSITION: Working with Cerberus leaves him distrustful, especially after having learned of their involvement with the Akuze disaster. He adopts a pessimistic/realistic viewpoint which contributes to the worsening of his scars. He is a bit more ruthless, often intimidating and/or harming people if they don't give him what he needs (though he doesn't behave violently towards civilians). He is still tethered to his own moral code, but has experienced a drastic upheaval in that he has been stripped of the Alliance identity he's maintained for the past 11 years.

He also somewhat blames himself for the destruction of the SR-1, a fact that is only worsened as the game progresses, since it's shown that Harbinger has a direct interest in him. This causes him to adopt a mindset wherein he feels that the only way to keep his crew safe is by eliminating threats at their source. Because of this, he will often seek revenge and/or refuse to show mercy to his enemies (unless taking revenge would endanger civilians/innocent people, in which case he relents, though it does stress him out to do so).

He has a more positive outlook towards the end of the game, though, when he manages to free himself of the Illusive Man's influence and reminds himself of who he is.

RELATIONSHIPS: Though wounded by Kaidan's distrust on Horizon, he does understand it. However, due to working with Cerberus, he is generally distrustful towards people and thus does not establish a solid support system as he did before. His friendship deepens with both Garrus and Joker, and he finds new friends in Kasumi, Samara, and Thane.

MAJOR CHOICES:

Recruited all potential companions/allies.

Completed all loyalty missions successfully.

Maintained cooperation between all companions.

Installed all Normandy upgrades (aside from the Med-Bay upgrade).

Saved Maelon's data.

Destroyed the Geth heretics.

Saved the entire SR-2 crew from the Collectors.

Destroyed the Collector Base.

Everyone survived the suicide mission.

LESSER CHOICES:

Completed all DLC/lesser assignments.

Sent David to Grissom Academy.

Let Veetor go with Tali.

Got Kal'Reegar to stand down.

Set the memorial at the SR-1 crash site.

MASS EFFECT 3 SPECIFICS:

MORALITY (BEGINNING OF GAME): Paragade (roughly 75% paragon, 25% renegade).

MORALITY (END OF GAME): Renegon (roughly 20% paragon, 80% renegade).

COMBAT DISPOSITION: Violent; shows no weakness or mercy, especially with Cerberus. Does his best to avoid civilian casualties but acknowledges them as often being unavoidable.

GENERAL DISPOSITION: The invasion of the Reapers despite his warnings causes Shepard a great deal of stress. Dealing with his stresses alone while also having his worst fears realized causes him to become more abrasive. As the war progresses, his patience grows thinner and thinner, especially as the expectations placed upon him seem to only grow in magnitude. Hardened by the obvious fact that his word only matters when it conveniences others, he adopts a colder personality. He detaches himself from the war, unable to psychologically handle the stress otherwise, and views things in black and white.

However, he is not evil, and is in fact often overburdened with his own sense of empathy and responsibility. The major shift in his psyche occurs on Thessia, as he holds himself completely responsible for the deaths after his defeat—both on and off the planet. After this defeat, his taste for revenge which began in ME2 grows stronger, as he knows that the only way to truly put things to rest between himself and Kai Leng would be to kill him.

He struggles with his morality, too, as combat inevitably becomes his only outlet; this subsequently causes a subconscious inclination towards violence, as it is one of his only methods of release. He is prone to violent reactions in the face of adversaries, though he does not act without thought (with the exception of the Omega DLC, where he restarted the reactor without hesitation despite the consequences; this was because he refused to allow Cerberus to try and get the upper hand on him again by manipulating his qualities).

NOTE: It's important that I emphasize his shift towards Renegade is a direct result of his traumas/their aftermath. He is not by any means intended to be a "cruel for the sake of it" kind of charcter.

RELATIONSHIPS: Despite his inner turmoil, Shepard actually develops closer relationships over the course of the war, partially because he recognizes that he may never otherwise get the chance. His closest friends are Garrus, Joker, and EDI. He initiates a romantic relationship with Kaidan, which is maintained even after the game's ending.

MAJOR CHOICES:

Chose Paragon options in the conversations with Kaidan on Mars; automatically had his trust by the end of Priority: Citadel (II).

Revealed the Shroud sabotage to Eve and Wrex.

Disabled the Geth fighter squadrons.

Saved Admiral Koris.

Brokered peace between the Geth and the Quarians.

Saved the Rachni Queen a second time.

Achieved the Destroy Ending with necessary TMS to get the bonus scene, thus confirming his survival.

LESSER CHOICES:

Rescued Grissom Academy's students.

Saved Samara on Lesuss.

Killed both his clone and Brooks in the Citadel DLC.

Held a revenge-driven/hostile attitude during the Omega DLC.

Restarted the reactor (Renegade interrupt) during the Omega DLC.

[seaweedbraens]

hey hey!!! absolutely love the new chap (although im not quite done with it yet). just wanted to let you know – it looks like you forgot to end an italics so a lot more of it is italicized than what i think you wanted; it's the bit that starts with "Tell everyone I’m not" and ends with “I guess it’s my turn now.” doesn't really change much but thought id tell you!

oh WOW thanks for letting me know - fixing it now!

edit: fixed! good catch; also you read so fuckin fast what rhe fUCK-

[everything-changes-once-again]

I just read Jennette McCurdy’s book I’m Glad My Mom Died and WOW do I have thoughts. Obligatory tw because the book is very much about eating disorders and she uses specific numbers and describes behaviors in detail. But she also talks about how fucking miserable she was, for so long, so it’s a very honest and real and not-glamorized portrayal.

That said, oh my god was it an incredible book. Very raw and real. She tracks her ED story for over a decade, discusses behavior swapping and cycling through different disorders over time, and portrays the inner eating disorder voice without having, like, italicized lines representing the voice directly, which has never really resonated with me. She talks about how hard it is to build a new identity when the disorder has been part of you for so long. She’s also honest about the timeline, about how she spent most of her 20s flirting with the idea of getting better, trying and giving up, trying again and giving up, and finally trying and sticking it out, and even then it took years with lots of slips. Incredibly honest and brave.

It was also the first time I’ve encountered an ED memoir where the main character didn’t have supportive parents pushing her to get better. In fact, it was the opposite - her mother actually encouraged her ED. (Her mother was horrible. Horrible. Like I can barely believe some of those stories were actual real things that person did to their daughter. My god.) And while my situation wasn’t even close to that awful, it was nice to see a story where, for once, parents weren’t falling over themselves to rush in and save their child, weren’t begging them to get better. Because that has never been the reality for me. While my mother is a mentally stable and generally very kind person, she has never been able to give me the support that I need. And all of the ED memoirs (yes I’m rereading the old ED books from the 2010s, it’s fine I’m fine) that I’ve ever read featured parents at least somewhere on the spectrum of concern. They featured kids, even if they were adult kids, getting support, or at least being offered support whether or not they were willing to accept it. It was incredible to read about someone who didn’t have that, who had to decide for herself to get better, and then hold herself accountable to keep choosing recovery over and over. I'm so grateful that Jennette chose to write this book.

[neverasfarawayasitmayseemxo]

Its Been So Long

I don't know what this is but it popped in my head and I felt like writing it :) . If a word is underlined, that means something is linked (clothing item I envisioned as I wrote) and whatever is italicized is your inner dialogue. Hope ya like it!

"Hey babe, you ready to go?" your boyfriend, Jake, asks as he grabs the keys.

"Yes, just one moment" you say as you take one final look in the mirror.

You take in the sight of your dress and adjust your plunging neckline. You felt pretty and confident. You shake out your curled hair and smile.

"You look so very hot" your boyfriend says.

You look over at him and grin. "Thanks Jakey"

"Let's go. I don't want us to be late for this event!" he says as he grabs your hand and you head out to the car.

Tonight was a charity foundation gala for The Wildlife Relief Foundation. Your boyfriend's father, Doug, was on the board and the board put together the entire event for tonight.

As Jake drives, you look over at him with a smile.

"You look so handsome" you say. He wore a navy blue suit and a dark grey bowtie.

"Well, keeping up with you is not easy" he replies. He gives you a side eye smile.

You pull up to the venue and Jake parks the car.

"Wow, there's a ton of people here" he says as he looks around at the nicely dressed couples walking in.

You nod as you watch them, too.

Jake takes your hand and you both walk into the extraordinary hotel.

There was an enormous table in the middle of the lobby with a bunch of table cards.

"Hmmmm" Jake mumbles as he scans the table for your card.

"Ah! Here we go. Jake Prescott and [Y/N + Y/LN]. Table 7" he reads.

Your eyes don't leave the table because they are fixated on one card in particular.

"Austin Butler and Guest"

Your entire body grew tense and your mouth was beginning to dry.

"You okay?" Jake asks.

You blink a couple times and look at him.

"Yeah...uh...yeah, I'm good. Let's find our table" you say.

You link arms with Jake and set forth to the ballroom. Two workers dressed in suits smile kindly and open the doors.

Your mouth drops as your take in the beautiful room. It was gigantic with numerous tables sprawled throughout. Centerpieces filled with peonies were placed at each round table. It smelled heavenly.

"This is beautiful" you exclaim.

Jake smiles, "My dad and the team sure know how to throw a party"

~

You make your way to your seats and the room begins to fill up. There were so many beautiful people dressed to impress.

"Honey, I'll be right back. My dad needs me to help him look over his speech...nothing like last minute, am I right?" he says.

You giggle, "It's okay, go. I'm going to go get a drink"

He smiles and kisses you.

When he walks off, you take a long sip of your water and sigh.

You look up at the entrance to the ballroom and your body goes numb.

There he was.

His hair was a lot shorter and tousled differently than it used to be. He was taller, broader and a little bit of scruff was spread on his face. He looked like a full on grown up. He was clad in a beautiful black suit. There was a girl with dark brown hair by his side.

You look down at the table and try to breathe carefully and steadily.

It had been 4 years since you last saw him. The boy, now man, you were in love with for 9 years prior. He looked just as amazing as he did when you both dated. What are the odds he's at the same exact gala as you?

You glance up and watch as he looks down at his table card. Dear God, I hope he's not at our table, you think to yourself.

He points over to the right and you continue to look as he takes a seat over at table 16. You had a perfect view of him and the girl he was with.

If you didn't need a drink before, you sure as hell needed one now.

You smooth down your dress and walk over to the bar.

"Can I have an apple martini please?" you ask the bartender.

"Coming right up" she says.

How is this even happening? Four years you haven't spoken to or seen him and now on some random Saturday night, here he is? Thoughts rushed your brain. Who is the girl he's with? Is it his girlfriend? How can you avoid him? Do you even want to avoid him? Why is he here?

"Um...miss?" the bartender says.

You snap back to reality and realize she's holding the apple martini in her hand and waiting for you to take it.

"Oh...Jesus...I'm so sorry" you say. You slip a five dollar bill into the tip jar and quickly grab the drink.

As you begin to turn around, you step forward and knock right into someone spilling some of the drink on them as well as you.

"Oh, I'm so sorry" you say. You look up and your mouth drops.

It was Austin.

"It's fine don't....[Y/N]?" he says.

He was a few inches from you. His cologne surrounded your nostrils. You couldn't even look him in the eyes because the nerves were taking over.

"Austin" you say in response.

He just continues to stare at you.

You avoid all eye contact. You grab a napkin on the closest table and start to wipe off the dripping liquid on your forearm.

"[Y/N]" he says again. "How are you?"

"Embarrassed" you reply and hand him the napkin.

He laughs and wipes off his tuxedo jacket.

"Don't worry, it's fine. It'll dry" he says.

You look up at him and quickly look away.

"I-I can't believe it's you" he says, setting the napkin down on the table.

"Believe it" you say.

He looks down at your cleavage then quickly back up at your eyes.

"You look radiant"

You can feel yourself blushing at the compliment.

"Thank you" you say.

He continues to stare at you. He folds his arms and shakes his head.

"You still look the same"

You laugh, "I can't say the same for you"

Austin smiles, "Oh really? Why not? What's so different?"

You shrug and your eyes meet.

"Your hair is shorter...you're taller...you're all man...you look mature" you explain to him.

Austin is silent, unsure of what to say.

"Well, I'm glad I look more mature...because I am" he says defensively.

You nod, "I believe it"

At that moment, Jake saunters over and wraps his arm around you.

"Hey babe, I was looking for you"

You were slightly annoyed at Jake for trying to show PDA, probably because he was threatened by Austin. Then again, who wouldn't be, he was no match for anyone.

"Hi" you say quietly.

"Hey man, I'm Austin" he says extending his hand. You watch as your ex boyfriend and your new boyfriend shake hands. Bleh, it was so weird.

"Sup, I'm Jake. How do you two know each other?" he asks.

Your eyes shoot to Austin and he smiles.

"[Y/N] and I have known each other for quite a while"

You look over at Jake and he seems confused.

"This...is my ex..." you explain, trying to make things more clear.

Jake's jaw tightens and he fixes his posture so he's standing a little taller than before. It didn't matter though, Austin still had 3 inches on him.

"Oh, gotcha" Jake mutters.

You let out a breath and look down at the floor.

"Well, [Y/N], it was great to see you. Jake, good to meet you. I'm just gonna grab a drink and go sit down" Austin says and gestures to the bar.

You move to the side so Austin can get in line.

Jake takes your hand and leads you back to the table.

"Well, that guys sucks" Jake says with a sigh. He takes a sip of his Corona.

You aren't even paying attention. You're fixated on Austin as he makes his way back to the table with two drinks in hand. He takes a seat next to the girl with brown hair and hands her the drink. A big smile forms on her face as she takes the glass and kisses his cheek.

You look down at your dinner plate and bite your lip. Fuck. Was that it? Only 15 seconds of talking with the guy you were in love with for so long? Maybe it was better that way.

"Did you know he was going to be here?" Jake asks.

"No...no...I really...I had no idea...I'm shocked" you say nervously.

Jake rolls his eyes.

"He thinks he's so cool, I can tell"

You pick up your fork and play with it. That's the thing about Austin, he didn't think he was cool. He WAS cool. He was everything you could have ever wanted in a boyfriend. He was kind, smart, caring, generous, loving and perfect. For 9 years, you fell more and more in love with him.

"[Y/N]?"

"Huh?" you say, quickly putting the fork down.

Jake lays his hand on top of yours.

"I said are you okay?"

You look up at him and sigh.

"Yeah, I'm fine. I need to use the ladies room...I'll be right back" you say and give him a quick peck on the lips.

You walk out of the ballroom forcing yourself not to look over at Austin's table.

Walking into the ladies room, you scurry over to the mirror and fix your makeup a little.

Your stomach was doing somersaults. You mind begins to wander...back to the last day you saw him...

~ ~

It's raining, droplets are coming down fast. The world is dark, clouds fill the sky.

You're standing in your driveway as the rain pelts your body. Austin is standing across from you, his hair completely drenched.

"I'm...I'm sorry" he says.

You shake your head as tears continue to fall down your pain stricken face.

"But I love you" you cry.

Austin sighs.

"You know that I love you too. I just think it's best if we breakup...this isn't working" he explains.

You look down at the ground and watch the pavement become darker as the rain hits it.

"I'm filming a movie in Budapest next year...I have to finish filming in Australia next month. I just don't think it's going to be possible for us to be together"

You look up at him and sniffle.

"Why can't I go with you?" you ask.

Austin shakes his head.

"You need to live your life. You need to do what's best for you. We need to do what's best for ourselves. [Y/N], I'll always love you, please don't ever forget that" Austin says.

You tuck your soaking wet hair behind your ear and watch as he walks over to you. With one final kiss on the cheek, he jumps into his car and drives away.

~ ~

"I love your dress!"

You snap back to reality and an older woman washing her hands is staring at your through the mirror.

"Oh thanks so much" you say looking down at it.

She gives you a smile and goes to dry her hands.

It would probably be best if you got back to Jake. You quickly apply a coat of lipstick and walk out the door.

You look around and stop.

Austin was in the lobby sitting down in a chair looking at his phone. Hmm...what was he doing out here?

You try to hurry past him without him noticing.

"Wait, [Y/N]!"

Fuck.

You turn and he's jogging towards you.

"Yeah?" you ask.

He stops in front of you and catches his breath.

"I just...I can't believe you're here. It's been so long" he says.

You shrug, "Only 4 years"

Austin looks down at the ground.

"Whose the guy?"

You cross your arms.

"That's my boyfriend, Jake"

Austin nods, still staring at the ground.

"Well, he's a lucky guy"

He looks up at you and you almost melt at the sight of his ocean blue eyes.

"So who is the girl?" you retort.

He laughs, "She's a girl I know...not a girlfriend if you're wondering"

You scoff, "I wasn't wondering"

Austin rolls his eyes playfully.

"We met like two months ago. It's nothing serious"

You shrug, "Hey, even if it is, I don't care"

Wow, you should stop being such a bitch right now.

Austin's expression changes, he looks more vulnerable.

"I'm sorry" he expresses.

You weren't sure exactly what he was sorry for.

"[Y/N]?" you hear someone call. It was Jake.

Austin looks around.

"Your boyfriend's looking for you"

You glare at him and let out a breath. You push past him and follow Jake's voice.

"Hey babe, sorry, I want you to hear my dad's speech. He's on in 5!" Jake says, once he sees you approach him from around the corner.

"Awesome, let's get back to the table" you reply and kiss his cheek.

As you walk back to your seat and sit down, you think about Austin. You didn't want to be mean to him but it was the only way for you to guard your heart. Austin meant the world to your for 9 years and he's the one who broke things off. You refused to allow yourself to fall for him again...plus, you had a boyfriend! Austin was off limits to you and you were off limits to Austin. That was final.

As Jake's father approaches the podium and begins his speech, your eyes wander over to Austin's table. He sits down next to the brown haired girl and she smiles at him.

Austin's eyes peer over at you and you instantly look over at Jake.

"What?" Jake asks with a smile.

You kiss him passionately.

You pull back and Jake is smiling.

"What was that for?" he says.

"Because I love you" you grin. You turn back towards Austin to see if he saw your exchange and his eyes are still glued to you. Only this time, they look somber and melancholy. You watch as he lets out a long sigh and his eyes meet the table.

[luckyshotwrites]

Ch. 77 // Happy Birthday // Day 52 ½

Contents (Warnings): Happy Birthday, Wicks! (Slight fluff, slight angst, character and monster info as always). Read full chapter on - A03

Wordcount: 3,200 + (Short chapter for the wrap!)

Song I correlate to this Chapter: Light - Sleeping At Last

Side note: This will contain experimental writing; first person (Lynette's view) will be implemented alongside third person for the two other essential characters, (mostly) Alexander and (occasionally) Drake. All their text will be italicized for those third-person moments, with the characters' names in Bold at the start and their thoughts in Bold. There may be other characters I write for using this.

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

(Nov. 14th, Monday)

Lynette

I looked at the plethora of snacks on the table, then back to Wicks, who looked utterly aghast by them. Such a pitiful threshold for sweets. I joked in my head.

"You don't have to eat anymore, Wicks," I assured him with my hands at fists at my sides, striking a pose to show him I'd help in that area.

He nodded along, "I know." He sipped his coffee, then took account of my pose. "You still want more?!"

He's gonna make fun of me. I quickly spoke, "It's for Claudia. I simply wanted to give her some variety." 

Wicks smirked, "Uh-huh?" He passed the coffee table and started to work his way to the kitchen. "Speaking of Lentils, Garter should be bringing her soon." I followed behind him. 

I remembered Garter from the wedding. Specifically, our massive height difference. At least he's not as physically imposing as Xander. And for some reason, my breath became rough.

Though the tension we had between us cracked, it wasn't completely gone. There were things I wanted to ask, apologies I still felt necessary to say, yet I didn't want us to drift apart again. 

"You're still my hold," I muttered.

Wicks turned his head to me, "hm?"

I smiled sheepishly, watching him pour another cup of coffee, "I was saying you're gonna have to help me hold over those snacks if Claudia doesn't like them." I found it hard to lie to anyone in my family. He looked ready to call me out.

The knock on the front door saved me. Wicks pushed off the counter, put his mug down, and raced past me since our kitchen exit wasn't far from the entrance. 

He put me aside since I went to answer it first, "Never know who it might be; you stay put behind me." 

He answered, and I heard a bubbly voice beyond him. "Hi again, Lynette's brother," Claudia peeked underneath his arm at me. "Lynette!"

I lightly waved and saw the skyscraper not far behind her. 

"Hey, Claudia, hey, Garter." I gave a wave to him too.

He did the same to me and smiled at Wicks, "Package delivered, safe and sound, Boss."

"I'm not your boss," Wicks muttered with a thank you.

Claudia hurried past him and even me. I watched her as she walked around the living room.

"Wow, this place is filled with a lot of magic." She glanced back at Wicks, "Then again, your brother gives off more than most monsters." 

Wicks's expression raised with concern. 

A chuckle came from the beanstalk at the door, "She's lively; I like her."

"She is, huh." Wicks swung back his coffee. I knew he enjoyed the "refreshing" bitter taste. You got a coffee addiction, and I got sweets. "Thank you again, Garter," Wicks said. 

Garter smiled, "you're welcome!" He took a few more steps from the door, "Have a good night, ya'll."

I perked up, "You're not staying, Garter?" I said it without thinking. I thought Wick's friend was bringing Claudia so he could have a friend at the sleepover too. 

"Me?" Garter's blue puppy dog peered at me, "I don't want to intrude."

"You wouldn't be intruding," I said.

Wicks glanced back apprehensively as if saying, "Would you be comfortable with him here?"

I nodded my head. I didn't think Wicks would choose to be friends with anyone dangerous. 

 Wicks stepped aside for Garter. "We're gonna watch a show Lynette and I did when we were younger, the super rangers."

He ducked his head slightly and came inside, "that sounds so cool!" 

Claudia tugged me toward the table, "Are these all for us? This is a lot of snacks!"

Wicks rolled his shoulders forward, "Lentils wanted to make sure we found some you liked." 

I heard Garter's not-so-quiet whisper to Wicks, "Am I allowed to have some too, boss?"

"Yes," Wicks followed it up with a grumble, "and I'm not your boss." 

I passed him one, and he took it. 

...

As we finished yet another episode and it was midnight, Garter finally said, "Ya know, that green ranger reminds me of you."

"Right!" I said, poking him lightly with my elbow. 

Wicks put his head down, and I saw his cheeks blushing slightly. "you guys are hilarious." 

"I want to be the yellow one. She's funny!" Claudia chimed in. 

"Oh, we used to dress up as them on Halloween all the time. I used to be the pink one." I said. "Garter can be the gray super ranger."

Garter held the honor bestowed upon him, "Next Halloween? For sure."

The other two spoke amongst each other, and I bent forward to semi-listen. Claudia switched my focus with her voice. 

 "You won't be working there next year, though...so I won't see you anymore."

Even though she held her smile, there was a tender innocence behind what she said. 

"Even after I finish the year, we can still talk, Claudia, don't worry," I assured her. I didn't even realize I said 'after I finish the year.'

...

(Nov. 15th, Tuesday) Near Midnight

Ulysses

"Charletta, this doesn't look like the hotel?"

Charletta swerved in the passenger seat to face him and chuckled. Her long, vibrant light brown hair followed her twist.

"We are gonna help Lynette and her friend to give Wicks a midnight birthday surprise!"

That makes much more sense. No wonder the GPS continuously tried to direct us away. "Did you tell Lynette about it?"

Charletta still wore a grin and shook her head, "Nope. I'm gonna surprise her too." 

That sounds like a terrible idea. He let go of the steering wheel, "You know, they had a rough couple of-" Ulysses blinked, and Charletta had already gone through the portal. You're the most spirited person I know. 

He sighed and reached out to the spatial magic portal. It closed before he touched it. Oh. His shoulders dropped. Dad warned me there would be a day in a man's life when his wife completely abandons him. He smiled at the thought and remembered his mom leaving them all, including his dad, at the mall alone. He reclined back in his seat, taking a breather.

"Drake was young back then," Ulysses uttered, and his tongue touched his retracted fangs. He jolted, realizing his action. Disgust filled his expression; I'm glad one of us could be better to him, Wenna. Then, he put his chair back up and got out of the car. "I should grab a drink while she's..." he looked up at the window of their apartment, saw the flash of light, and his sensitive ears picked up on the light bang at the glass window pane.

He raced toward the stairs that led up to the apartment doors. IT BETTER BE WICKS OR SOMETHING, OR I'M ABOUT TO MURDER SOMEONE.

...

(Nov. 16th, Wednesday)

Wicks

He sat in the back with Lynette in between him and Claudia. He didn't enjoy the scare this morning, nor them holding him down when he woke up. Luckily the ridicule died down as the car ride progressed.

Wicks could tell they got closer to their destination by the rows of never-ending trees. This is the only way they'd meet us. Other than that, they know we'd find them and crash into their house.

He crossed his arms over his chest, subconsciously lost in thought. You have a knack for falling into danger, or is it that we lead you into trouble? Wicks felt a pair of eyes on him. He met Charletta's gaze from the front seat. She veered in her seat and put herself over the center console. "Put those big soft eyes away on your birthday; enjoy your 21st!" 

"Jeez, you're so old," Lynette muttered beside him. 

He chippered up, "Just wait until June, youngin'; you'll know my back pain." He slipped his hand behind his back and leaned forward with his joke. Lynette stuck her tongue out in response.

"If you call that old..." Ulysses' voice said from the driver's side.

"Then we're ancient," Charletta finished. Her head craned to him, lifted simply by the ease of seeing him. 

It's hard to believe you'll be turning 29 next year. Wicks thought about Charletta. Is Ulysses the same age? He opened his mouth to ask but stopped as he felt Lynette near him tense.

He looked out, seeing the cabin up ahead. Mom and Dad were waiting outside. They don't hate you, Lentils.

"Are those your parents?" Claudia asked Lynette.

Lynette smiled lightly; a pain pushed its knife at her lips. They quaked with its threat. "Not my real parents. I was adopted when I was younger." Lynette admitted, "But they raised me for almost all my life. So, I consider them as much." 

Wicks leaned against her, offering support. 

Charletta whistled with her chuckle, "And you've always been our little sister, even before that." 

"Couldn't agree more," Wicks said beside her. 

The car stopped.

He felt Lynette's shoulders tremble. He saw the sheen in her eyes that she held back. 

"Mis chiquitos!" Madre squealed, throwing open the front passenger door. She looked at all of them before yanking Charletta out. 

Ulysses stepped out of the car too. He offered a handshake, which Padre changed into a hug. 

Everyone followed Wicks and left the car.

His eyes locked on with his dad, who quickly scooped Lynette and him.  

"Ah!" Lynette squeaked. 

The heavy pine scent over his dad's body drowned out everything else. The position pressed Wicks closer to his dad's deep scars. Wicks still clung to the memory of him before he got them. 

 Padre let them go and stared beyond them with his best eye, "And who are you, little one?" He bent toward Claudia. 

Claudia's eyes went wide. She stared and tilted her head from left to right like she was using a Wii remote. "You-" Her eyes lowered with a giggle, "oh, you smell pretty terrible for a magus."

His cold, faint gray eyes stared, yet his lips curled. "Ha, I've gotten that quite a lot." He held up a hand to her, "I'm Stefan, or" he looked back at Lynette and pointed at Claudia. "This is your friend you told me about, yeah?"

Lynette nodded, "yeah, that's Claudia."

He flipped back around, "Then call me Padre." 

Claudia peered down at the hand he offered apprehensively. Wicks wasn't surprised. Most did. 

Claudia smiled brightly, and a "wing" lifted her shirt and came from her back, "Nice to meet you." She looked over him more as they shook, "I don't think I've seen someone with so much magic protentional before besides magic-bound monsters like me."

Padre's expression remained unchanged, though Wicks knew it hit him. "Another thing I get a lot."

Their mother came around the other side of the car. "Wicks, Lyn, Ulysses!" She tried to bring them all into a hug simultaneously, "Me alegro de que estéis todos a salvo." 

"usted también," Wicks said.

"Missed you too," Ulysses said. He avoided the use of mom. 

Lynette pressed into her. Wicks felt Lynette's tiny, tender hands grip Madre underneath him. "I'm glad you guys are okay too." She still held on even after Madre let them go. 

We're all glad you're the one that's fine, Lentils.

Madre eyed the one that Padre laughed alongside. "Is that your friend, Claudia?"

Lynette pulled back, "Yeah, she's a friend from work." 

Work. 

Lynette, Ulysses, and Madre went over to their chuckle zone. 

He felt an elbow sling up and onto his shoulder. Charletta stood at five foot nine, much like Madre.

"At least try to be a little happy for her."

Wicks turned his head to the side, "it's not that I'm not happy for her. I am. I just don't like the sound of half the people she works with." 

Charletta snickered, "And you've told her this."

"Of course."

His older sister teetered closer to Wick, "Then all you can do is let her decide for herself," she removed her elbow. Wicks felt his chest tighten. He narrowed down as she took a few steps forward, "We can't guard her forever." 

He grabbed her shoulder, "This isn't a normal situation, Charletta. It's not like she's with a bunch of humans."

"And you know, humans aren't all saints either, right?" She said. She turned to stand in front of him and put a hand to his chest, calmingly, "Now, relax, Lyn's gonna wanna see you smile today. I want to see you smiling, Madre, Padre, Ulysses, and probably even Lyn's friend too."

Wicks ran up her arm with his eyes, then released them. She's always so lax. She released him and went to the group.

Even though they grew up together and did so much together, Charletta always was a counter to him. I can't just sit back. You see what happens when I do. His heart sank deeper into his chest. It tried to hide. He watched Claudia next to Lynette. You said you didn't know much about Claudia before this. And you accepted her all the same.

Wicks knew that's just how she was. 

Always so hopeful. 

...

Lynette

There was so much I wanted to say, and my mouth quivered in anticipation of it. I couldn't on Wicks's birthday. No matter how deep the guilts, claws dug into me.

Padre and Madre directed us inside the log cabin. It had been a while since we all went camping together or stayed in the middle of nowhere for a day. 

The smell hit me first. A fragrant offering gestured for me to join it inside. The spicy yet meaty enchiladas await. Oh, I missed your cooking so much, Madre! I added some light to my mood. 

The banners called my attention next, and the multitude of games, a board game table, billiard, and far off the area of presents. Packed as usual. 

I slumped. I need to remember to give my family the gifts I got from the festival. 

I dragged my feet and went to apologize to Wicks, but Claudia went in front of me and pointed at the balloons, shiny confetti, and everything. 

"This looks like the birthdays in the movies, isn't it cool!" she smiled. "Thanks for inviting me to the party." She gave off a mischievous grin. A memory of her home pushed into my head. The table of partially burned, worn, and torn stuffed animals. Her original "party guests" for her own birthday.

...

After our big feast, Charletta and Padre worked on setting up the cake. Even though Charletta rarely could handle delicate things, she could somehow focus on baking better than us. The dark chocolate cake with crashing waves coming up its sides showed that much. She always did art within them, a memory from us. Or a highlight of the year, this was that of the notorious fry-stealing seagull. 

"That looks so silly and amazing," Claudia said beside me. Her different color hue reflected the candle's flame. 

I felt Madre behind me, "So many candles..."

I looked back at her, "Yeah."

"¿Qué pasa chiquita?" 

"Nothing, I'm happy." I gave her a big smile. 

Madre traced her hand along her back gently. "Lyn." 

"I feel bad," Lynette whispered, "Claudia's never had a birthday. She tried to have one before, and some people attacked her." I can't imagine how you feel; you're still smiling. "She looks happy to be here in general, but-"

Madre interrupted me, "Never?"

I shook my head. "She never had the chance." I didn't have enough time to explain everything. 

Madre moved her hand to my shoulder and firmly held it. She looked at Charletta doing the final touches, "¿Tenemos los ingredientes para hacer otro pastel?"

I flicked my head back, "No, Madre, it's fine!"

"Why?" Wicks asked, coming over from his phone call. Garter couldn't make it but wanted to wish Wicks a happy birthday anyway. "I think it looks great."

"Claudia nunca ha tenido una fiesta de cumpleaños. Podemos lanzarle uno por la mañana." Madre told him.

Wicks glanced over me at Claudia. She pointed at things on Charletta's cake. Occasionally, Charletta tapped the "wings" that came out of her back as a warning when she got too close. Claudia giggled after.

Wicks smiled, "I'll just share with her."

Claudia noticed us all staring. She tilted her head. 

Wicks pointed where she was standing, "Take a seat," he approached her and pulled out the chair meant for him. 

"Wicks-" Madre patted my back and informed Padre what was happening as he returned with party hats.

His scarred smile perked, "and no using magic or too much spit when blowing out the candles," he gave her pointers like a worn-out coach. "How many cakes did I ruin that way, Marsol?"

Madre snickered, "Too many."

Padre smiled crisply and threw his arm around her. "You could have lied, you know."

Claudia stared at the cake, her eyes again enraptured by the flames. "It's not my birthday."

"It is now," Charletta chirped, finally standing back up and groaning about her aching back. 

"Looks beautiful, honey," Ulysses said to her. 

"Damn rig-" Charletta met Madre's dart-filled gaze. "Darn right." 

Madre nodded and led us in the Happy Birthday Song. Its sweet melody continued until Padre purposefully went off-key as he always did. Madre threw a hand over his mouth like every year too. 

And once it was time to blow out the candles, Wicks and Claudia agreed to go forward. Then, Wicks pulled back, allowing Claudia to blow them out alone. She did so successfully. 

"You tricked me," Claudia said, "I took your wish."

Wicks teased her, "Hope you made a good one for both of us then."

"I did. I wished I could try some cake."

I laughed aloud on accident, "I'm sorry-"

The shenanigans soon ensued. I couldn't deny the ease of seeing everyone together. It still stung, and it'll linger for a long time. Yet, I was glad I could be here with them, including Claudia. 

It felt like the first genuine smile I'd seen from her, playing games and acting amuck with everyone. It sparked a slight hope inside the brim of my chest.

I thought of all the possibilities, what if I had not held back Kalin, if she didn't save me, if I didn't call for help, and if I hadn't met her. I pondered those realities. 

Then calmed, and reminded myself, I was in this one.

They're all so different from me. I couldn't deny the slight fear and worry I had at the pizzeria, and at the same time, I remembered how sad Claudia looked when I said I might quit a few days ago. That's probably why I reassured her in the car.

I held up the juice box in my hand. I could check off one friend from the list. I would like to befriend Drake and Zilla... I knew Drake would be arguably harder as he's friends with Alexander, but if I have Drake in my corner, Xander might leave me alone.

And Zilla would be handled Lev, and Claudia could help with Xander on weekends. I was never one to really plot. And that was probably why the very idiotic statement ran out of my mouth. 

"Or maybe one day we can all be normal friends."

...

Hey, you, thank you so much for reading. I'm glad I put out a story that people can enjoy! I hope you continue to enjoy it as WE have a LOT more to go! YOU BETTER KEEP PROSPERING! (Nonnegotiable, as always~).

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What I’d do for a Livable Income (Synopsis/Chapter - List)

[paradoxcase]

@longroadstonowhere:

so apparently the italicized immortal soul bit is from hans christian andersen's little mermaid

@wellhappybirthdaytomeiguess

Yeah, the quote John says is from Little Mermaid, and you'll find he says stuff like that a great deal...

Oh, that's right, the issue in the original story was that mermaids didn't have souls. And I guess the Emperor would have been around when that was popular media, wouldn't he?

@cornon-thekopp:

Wow this is an impressive amount of analysis out of this amount of book

Honestly, I read the chapter and did not have most of these thoughts, and then I went to bed and tried to go to sleep and then at some point was like, wait, he absorbed the ninth planet's soul, didn't he? The power of insomnia. I think I'm more sure about my guesses from this chapter than my guess in the last book that Cytherea wasn't Dulcinea actually

@wandering-minx:

The sword question will be answered eventually, why the lyctors still have swords even with all their power. The immortal soul human just one day quote is from The Little Mermaid [the og story not the Disney version]. A lot of people liken the "you're walking down a long hallway. You need to turn around" to Orpheus and Eurydice.

That's good to know. You know, I think I remember seeing a Locked Tomb post about Orpheus and Eurydice before I finished Gideon the Ninth and not really understanding how it related to the story, but I think I understand it now

[bonesandthebees]

hi bees I was wondering if you would be able to share how you came up with the name the stars and their children (it is literally music to my ears and just, wow )

honestly it was a lot of just brainstorming possible titles and also struggling to find a title that was the right color.

yeah. color.

I have a form of synesthesia where letters, words, titles, etc. all have specific colors in my head. this includes my own fic titles! so when I was trying to come up with a title for stars, the two requirements I had was that 1) it couldn't be insanely long (kind of failed that one) and 2) it had to be the right color to fit the vibes of the fic or else it'd drive me nuts

I knew i wanted the title to relate to space in some way, and I actually still have my list of possible titles I brainstormed (the italicized ones were my favorites)

a LOT of my friends told me they liked event horizon the best but this is why I brought up the synesthesia. event horizon was the COMPLETELY wrong color in my head. it didn't fit the vibes at all. I heavily leaned towards among the stars, but I didn't want people making among us jokes so I backtracked on that one too lmao. and moondust was just basic as fuck. so the stars and their children was the winner!

(if you're curious, event horizon as a title was red and black in my head. very dark and foreboding and way too intense. the stars and their children is a very pretty mix of blue and purple in my head which fit way better)

[staceymcgillicuddy]

Twenty Questions for Fic Writers

Tagged by @astorytotellyourfriends! ❤️❤️❤️

1. How many works do you have on AO3?

On this account? 8. Total across every fandom (hi, yes, I get paranoid about bothering people from old fandoms with new content so I make new names like a dork), 74. Wow, that is So Many.

2. What's your total AO3 word count?

In Hellcheer, 237,256. Across everything, 1,311,715.

3. What fandoms do you write for?

Currently just Stranger Things, but past fandoms were LoTR, a brief dabble in the MCU, X-Files, RPF which shall not be named, and uh... Dawson's Creek. Yes, I am old.

4. What are your top 5 fics by kudos?

Only looking at Hellcheer fic:

to get my soul known again

If She Lived in Space, Man, I’d Build a Plane 

Trudge on Home to Celebrate 

crimson & clover pulling overtime 

model citizen; zero discipline 

5. Do you respond to comments? Why or why not?

Yes! I love interacting with people, and I figure if they're kind enough to leave a comment, I ought to be kind enough to respond. That said, I'm way behind on Kinktober comments.

6. What is a fic you wrote with the angstiest ending?

I have never written an angsty ending in fic, because fic is my happy place. I have written some bittersweet ones, though.

7. What's the fic you wrote with the happiest ending?

Happiest? Damn. I mean, I haven't actually ended a Hellcheer longfic yet but Soul is absolutely a HEA.

8. Do you get hate on fics?

People have been surprisingly kind throughout my fic history. There have been some trolls and dickheads, but for the most part everyone has been super generous.

9. Do you write smut? If so, what kind?

Yes! Usually kinky stuff, which is where I have the most interest. I find vanilla stuff kind of boring, so there's usually some power dynamic or another in there to pique my interest and keep me inventing weird stuff for them to do.

10. Do you write crossovers? What's the craziest one you've written?

I wrote an X-Files/LoTR crossover in high school but that's not that weird.

11. Have you ever had a fic stolen?

Not that I've been made aware of.

12. Have you ever had a fic translated?

Yes!

13. Have you ever co-written a fic before?

I have, with my best friend. We wrote together in high school, and in some early fandoms. I really enjoyed it and would love to do it again, but it's a funny alchemy to find someone who fits your vibe and who you bounce off correctly and who wants to tell the same story you're telling.

14. What's your all-time favorite ship?

Radu/Elmira. There's a deep cut.

15. What's a wip you want to finish, but doubt you ever will?

There's one in another fandom that is legitimately my only unfinished work in that fandom and it makes me sad. I do have a lot of half-started WIPs in draft that I haven't posted, so I guess those count. Maybe the western AU?

16. What are your writing strengths?

I think I am decent at dialogue and description, and that I am better than some writers but worse than others. This is as close as I am legally allowed to come to complimenting my own work, thank you for understanding.

17. What are your writing weaknesses?

Literally everything else.

18. Thoughts on writing dialogue in another language for a fic?

I would absolutely either have someone else help me, or I would write it in English and italicize it to indicate it's in another language.

19. First fandom you wrote for?

X-Files.

20. Favorite fic you've written?

I genuinely love Soul and am so proud of it, but I don't know that it's my favorite. I don't even know that I have a favorite, because I love them all for different reasons and get sad when the ones I am excited about don't hit as hard as the ones I'm 'meh' on.

Throwing this to @binickandros @justhere4thevibez @1lostsoul0fishbowl aaaaaaaand @pipergirl17