#writing will make its return eventually...... but it might be a bit yet ;~;

[byanyan]

still alive but still struggling

[ghostmaldo]

ꨄStardew Valley Headcannons: Artist farmer leaves a sketch for their love interest to find ꨄ

This took me so long to write, I’ll cry if this flops, but its fine ;-;

I might draw out the poses honestly… gives me something to do hehe Xp

No warnings, fluff, comfort, GN!Reader

Ask box: Open 💙

~Maldo

ᡣ𐭩 Penny ᡣ𐭩: Ooooh this sweet child, I just want to take her away from all of her troubles-

~It’s been a long day for Penny. She’s been spending most of the day tutoring Vincent and Jas, taking them out into the wilderness and to the library. Standing outside for a moment while the rain pelted the library rooftops. Of course, eagerly chatting with farmer while they ran around town doing their usual chores.

~ Between all that of course she’d have a altercation with her mother. Nothing she can’t handle but that dosen’t mean it dosen’t hurt any less. So, she practically dragged her feet back to her camper (RV? Whatever that thing is called).

~She reaches out for the handle of the door, then she stops. What this…?Her eyes blowing open slightly as she sees a neat envelope sticking out of the crack in the door. She see’s her name written in a sparkly gel pen as she retrieves from the door. Her heart starts to beat a bit harder in chest…

~She carefully opens the envelope. The scent of a sweet smelling perfume pulls at her heart strings further. Someone must have put a lot of thought into this little gift…for her…?

~Unfolding the paper from inside, she takes in a sharp breath. It’s a portrait drawing, of her sitting in fields. It’s gorgeous… It looks exactly like her… Penny marvels at each pencil stroke. Even the little smudges at the ends of the paper catch her eye. She almost feels like crying. And a single tear does fall when she sees the signature at the bottom.

From: (Farmer)

~The farmer, as if one Que, appears behind her. “Oh you found it! I was worried it might-“

~She can’t hold herself back from throwing her arms around the farmer and hugging them tight. The farmer returning the embrace happily. Penny didn’t know how the farmer knew, but she needed to see this after the kind of day shes had.

~She frames the drawing and keeps it in a special place her mother can’t find. Often looking at it when she needs a pick me up and instantly she feels a little better about life.

ᡣ𐭩Shane ᡣ𐭩 Disclaimer: Due to my own personal experiences/triggers I’ve been warned by my friends I shouldn’t play his route and I’ve only really picked up things here and there so it may not be perfect, but I still want to include him as he is still very deserving of affection. That being said, this is where farmer and Shane have a few hearts between each other and he dosen’t hate them entirely ^^

~Another late night walking back alone to his Aunt’s house from the saloon. His head is swimming with all the beer in his veins, swaying from side to side on his feet as he walks. Eventually arriving to his doorstep, through his blurry visions. He makes out his name on the front of his door. “Shaaane… thats my name.”

~His a bit confused at first. Reaching out to touch the letters of his name written in the sparkling gel ink. That’s when realized his name is written on an envelope of some kind. The confusion on his face only deepens. What kind of joke was this? He certainly wasn’t laughing.

~He grumbled as he fumbled with opening the letter. Revealing the picture of himself with his chicken Charlie… He blinks… and blinks again… He stares at the picture for a long time. His drunken mind unable to process what his looking at. At the bottom of the page he reads:

“From (Farmer)”

~He feels a tightness form in his chest. He almost wants to be angry the farmer left this for him to find… Yet… he thumbs over the thin strides of ink forming his face.

~After several minutes of just standing there holding the drawing, he carefully tucks the drawing into his coat pocket. Wondering inside and briefly forgetting about it as he throws himself into bed to sleep off the hangover. The farmer somehow finding themselves into his dreams.

~He won’t bring up the drawing for a few days I think. Not exactly knowing what to say. It isn’t until he sees the farmer one random afternoon buying supplies from Marnie that he catches them before they leave.

“Uhh, thanks for this.” He takes the folded piece of paper out from his pocket, unable to look the farmer in their eyes. “It’s nice…”

ᡣ𐭩Maru ᡣ𐭩

She’s having her afternoon sit near the saloon. Enjoying the warm air and peaceful chirping of the birds near by. Penny usually does by to sit with her sometimes, but she’s pleasantly surprised to find the farmer waving at them. A brand new battery pack in their hand, instantly she perks up, wondering if perhaps…

~ It is! She’s overjoyed to receive another battery pack from the farmer. Maru already knows the exactly project she’ll use it for. She waves the farmer good bye as they have other things to do.

~Once they’ve gone. Something feels different… about this battery pack. Sitting back down and inspecting the object more closely. She noticed theres something attached to the battery. An envelope with her name written on it. “Hmmm?”

~Cursorily, she thumbed the letter open. Using the upmost of care to unravel the drawing inside. Her eyes went wide with surprise. A drawing of her at the clinic writing something on a clipboard. It was so… life like. Just by looking it over, Maru could tell it was done with care. She smiled fondly. A loud, she read: “From, (Farmer)

~Quickly, she hurried after the farmer, hoping they hadn’t gotten to far. Seeing them about to head back to their farm, she blitzed it. Hugging them from behind as she reached them. “Thank you farmer! This is the best!”

~Another one to frame it and place it somewhere special. Considers it one of her most prized possessions.

ᡣ𐭩Sebastian ᡣ𐭩

~Lizard blinking at 10am in the morning. Sebastian reaches to turn the alarm off on his phone. He groans and grumbles for a few minutes before deciding to sit up and move over to his computer. He placed his fingers on his keyboard, the abruptly stopped when he felt a strange sensation on the pads of his fingers.

~Tilting his head, he spotted… an envelope His name written in a neat sparkly cursive. Ugh… he hoped this wasn’t a joke from his mother. He carelessly ripped the envelope open, though he was careful with the contents inside. Unfolding the paper, his eyes landed on a drawing of him… one of him working on his motorcycle. One of the corners of the page reading: From (Farmer)

~Sebastian.exe has stopped working-

~He takes a slow deep breath in, heart beating wildly inside his chest. He found the gesture to be so… sweet. Sebastian admires the piece for a long while before he can focus on anything. He places it somewhere safe but where he can still admire it within his working space. It’s all he can think about for the entire days (And probably for several days after)

~In the evening time, he purposely places himself near the mines so he can show his appreciation to the farmer. He waves them over as soon as he sees them. He becomes a little shy rubbing the back of his neck nervously, but he does want to say something. “Hey, I found the drawing on my desk… Thank you… That was very kind of you…” Will hesitate to go in for a hug but if farmer meets them halfway he will gladly embrace them.

ᡣ𐭩Leahᡣ𐭩 Disclaimer#2: I haven’t tried to romance Leah yet and I know the very baseline of her personality so I apologize (again) if this one isn’t perfect but also still wanted to include her.

~Leah’s been inside her small home for most of the afternoon working on her latest project. Deciding to take a stroll through town to take a small break and stretch her limbs out. She opens her door and catches the glimpse of something fluttering downward and landing on her door mat. An envelope? What could this be?

~ Inspecting the object, she traces her finger over her name. Some of the glitter from the Gel pen rubbing off. She can’t hide the smile that creeps onto her face. She’s a bit giddy over receiving something so mysterious and thoughtful!

~She opens the letter and finds the portrait of herself inside. She’s smiling happily with her house in the background. Lead is amazed by the penmanship. Her eyes glaze over every detail, her heart swelling with emotion. At the bottom of the page is a signature: From (Farmer). She lets out a happy squeal and lightly presses the drawing to her chest.

~Quickly, she runs inside to find a frame for the piece. Placing it on a special place on her wall where she can easily admire it. Then she takes off into town as originally planned. Now with a new motive in mind.

~She’s happy to find the farmer running around town. Lead quickly catches them and pulls them into a warm hug. “Farmer! I didn’t know you could draw! I love the gift you left for me! We should have drawing sessions together!” She’s just so happy and excited to have someone to relate too and the gesture was so sweet to her.

ᡣ𐭩Sam(son) ᡣ𐭩

~Okay, okay, so his already well into his morning routine before he notices anything. He comes back into his room to retrieve his skateboard when he then notices something tapped to it. An envelope with his name written on it. He eyes cursorily as he picks it up. Honestly having no idea what the letter could possibly be about.

~Opening it up, he find the drawing of him on his skateboard. A really well done drawing of him on his skateboard. “Wow.” He grips both ends of the paper and takes a moment to admire it. Eventually finding the signature at the bottom corner of the page. From: (Farmer).

~He breaks out into a wide smile. He can feel the warmth of his own face and his heart swoons. He places the drawing on his dresser before taking off without his skateboard. He briefly pauses outside, having mean to have grabbed it. But his brain is spinning so much he just waves off the skateboard and takes off on foot to see if the farmer might be wondering around somewhere.

~And his right. He catches them coming out of the community center. He approaches them with a smile thats returned to him. “So, when did you have time to sneak into my room hm?” He teases lightly, and they share a laugh together. “Hey but really, that was really nice of you. You’re really talented!”

~Another one to become shy when he goes in for a hug but once he feels the farmer wrap their arms around him, his content.

~He’ll stick around a moment to catch up with farmer, inviting them to hangout with him and his friends sometime at the saloon. He gives them one last hug before letting them get back to their work. The whole walk home his smiling like his on top of the world.

~ Tapes up the drawing somewhere in his room, his mom asks him about one time and he blushed the whole time as he explained the farmer gave it to him. Mom finds it sweet and teases her son about it.

ᡣ𐭩 Haleyᡣ𐭩

~ Haley opens the door to her shared home and finds the farmer standing there, mud and all, trying to place the envelope of the frame of her door. They stare at each other for a moment before he nose scrunches up as she notices the mud caked around their boots. “What are you doing?” She asks a bit dryly before she notices her name inscribed on the letter.

~”Oh! Is that for me?” She plucks the letter from the farmers hand before they have anytime to explain themselves. They stand there awkwardly as she doesn’t hesitate to rip the letter open. Revealing the drawing of her with her camera. Her face turns into one of surprise, a little oh leave her lips. it’s a bit hard to tell at first if she likes the drawing…

~Then she smiles gleefully. Spinning around with the drawing still in her hands and hugging it to her chest (not so gently as Leah but the drawings fine ^^). She goes to hug the farmer but stops when they realize they’re still covered in mud. So, instead, she gently lays her hand on their shoulder, giving it a light squeeze.

~”You made me look so pretty! Thank you! If you maybe… clean up a little maybe you can join Emily and I for dinner?” The farmer happily agrees. At dinner time is when Haley hugs them properly now that their clean. Even going as far as to compliment the shampoo they used. “So much better now that all the mud is gone!” (It’s a compliment, I promise)

~At dinner time, the farmer can see Haley’s placed the drawing in a frame and has it in her living room where everyone can gaze upon her beauty capture by the farmer.

ᡣ𐭩 Harveyᡣ𐭩

~”Alright (Farmer), just take this medication as directed and make sure to stay hydrated okay? And try to be careful in those mines!” Harvey’s gives the farmer a friendly smile as they are discharged from their clinic. Linus having brought them him when he found them exhausted in mines some time during the day. He was glad to see they were alright and hoped they found some time to get some rest.

~As his going to finalize his paperwork and pass it on to Maru, he sees an envelope on top of his other paperwork… when did that get there? He read his name on the letter, lightly pulling it from his clip board. He rest up against the counter, pulling the drawing from inside. A drawing of him taking a stroll through the patchy area in town. It’s so lovely… it takes him a moment to realize it is him. “From… (Farmer)”

~His so touched by the kind gesture he just stand there for a long time. Maru has to come find him to notify him he has Marnie waiting for him and he quickly has to tuck away the piece of paper in his coat. Clearing his throat and desperately trying to compose himself. “Sir your face is a little red are you okay?”

Stutters out a: “O-Oh yes! I-I’m fine just a little warm is all.”

~His a little distracted throughout the day and he can’t seem to stifle the rapid beating of his heart. His already thinking of something he can give to the farmer as appreciation… but he can’t seem to find anything he deems would speak his gratitude… Oh well maybe…!

~After locking up the clinic for the day, he catches the farmer out of the corner of his eye. He hollers for them and smiles brightly as they approach him. He lightly scolds them for not being in bed and resting, but quickly forgives them when they show him the bottle of water tucked away in their overalls (Or however farmer may carry this item ^^)

~”Oh and thank you for the uh… letter you left me. That was nice of you…” Is a blushing red mess and his nervously fiddling with his hands. “Um don’t worry about the bill this time. I’ll take care of it… just this one.” His startled when the farmer hugs him out of nowhere. The scent of the earth coming of their clothes makes his mind go a little blank., though deep down he enjoys the interaction.

~Has the drawing carefully tapped onto his clipboard so he always had it with him.

ᡣ𐭩Emilyᡣ𐭩

~Emily’s happily bursts through the doors of the saloon for her shift. There dosen’t seem to be too many patrons yet as she walked over to the other side of the counter. Gus appeares suddenly and catches her attention. “Hey! Secret admirer left this for you.” He claims with a wink as he slides over an envelope to her.

~”Oh! A secret admirer?” She looks at her name on the letter fondly. Closing her eyes as she holds it up above her face, almost if she were trying to conjure a face of who would have left this for her. The anticipation becomes too much as none of the faces she makes seem’s right. She impatiently opens the letter and finds the drawing of her dancing elegantly inside.

~She gasps and her eyes double in size…. Then promptly screams in absolute delight, jumping up and down on her feet. Gus shaking his head and smiling in the back ground while he prepares for the salon. “Make sure to read the bottom left corner.” When Emily hears this, she seizes her jumping and looks back at the drawing. From: (Farmer)

~ It’s at that exact moment farmer walks through the front doors. Emily sequels happily upon seeing them. Immediately running to practically jump into their arms. “(Farmer)! This is so sweet, I love it so much! Thank you, thank you, thank you!” She gives you a tender kiss on the cheek that has farmer melting. Me too farmer, me too.

~Invites them to have a drink at the bar while she works. Every so often coming over to talk with them. Anyone can tell she has an extra pep in her step and her eyes are dazzling every chance she speaks with the farmer.

~ Frames the drawing and places it in a special spot in her room. Frequently picks it up and talks to it as if it the farmer themselves.

ᡣ𐭩Elliotᡣ𐭩

~Elliot is peacefully taking his afternoon walk, his mind a bit busy with thinking about his writings. On his way back, he crosses paths with the farmer. Seemingly in a mad dash to get where they were going, though they do wave at each other and smile before they disappear from his sight.

~Upon returning home, he instantly spots the envelope on his door. “My, my, what is this?” He says to himself, gingerly picking up the letter and delicately prying it open. Inside, is a beautiful drawing of him at his piano. A hushed gasp leaves his lips. He covers his mouth with his finger tips as his in pleasant shock. His eyes travel all over the drawing until he finds the signature at the bottom. From: (Farmer)

~He shakes his with a smile on his face. “Oh, that farmer.” He speaks lovingly. He takes the drawing inside where he sets it on his piano like a sheet of music. Theres something brand new brewing in his mind. He sits himself before the piano, fingers tapping away at the keys experimentally. Until theres a new song dancing on them. It’s not long before his scribbling notes on blanks sheet music.

~Before the sun goes down, Elliot decides to take one final stroll through town. In hopes to find the farmer still running their many errands. Lucky for him, he finds them doing just that. Snagging them as gently as he by the arm, he playfully swings them around. “There you are (Farmer)! If I may have a few moments of your time.”

~Sits them down on the nearest bench and shows them the song he wrote for them. (Yay swooning yet?) Together they sit and chat long after the suns gone down. Invites them over the following day so he can preform said song for them. “For your art of me. I was touched by it (farmer), allow me to show you my appreciation.

~The drawing sits on one side of his piano much like sheet music

ᡣ𐭩Abigail ᡣ𐭩

~Abigail is wondering the valley late into the evening. Hitting all of her usual spots and now headed for the graveyard. It’s a pretty normal evening when she first arrives. Then theres something laying on the ground that catches her eye. An envelope with her name on it, sitting in the middle of a gravestone. “Ooooh, spooky!”

~She reached for the envelope and looks over the writing. She turns it over a few times to see if there’s anything else mysterious about the object. When she dosen’t find anything more, Abigail opens the letter. Finding a drawing of her playing her instrument in a majestic looking manner. “From: (Farmer)”

~She holds the drawing up to the light to admire the details closer. She’s so touched by the gesture. She has half the mind to run over to the farmers house right now. But decided to simply find them in the morning. By the time she gets there, they’ll be long asleep.

~Best believe as soon as she wakes up for the day shes at the farmers door knocking. When they open the door, she dosen’t waste a second in throwing her arms around the farmers neck in an embrace. “Thank you so much for the drawing! It’s beautiful! I had to come over and say thank you!”

~She’ll stay awhile and chat with the farmer before heading home. But not before she invites them over to possibly have a game night or hangout at the salon.

~Frames the picture and has it in her room where she sees it at least once each day.

ᡣ𐭩Alexᡣ𐭩

~His outside throwing the football to himself before deciding to come inside. His grandparents are out and about at the moment, so he decides to sit at the kitchen table. Once his settled, he noticed something on the table. White envelope sitting undisturbed with his name on the front.

~Thinking its a note from his grandmother, he opens it without a second thought. His face drops when he sees the drawing of him inside. Football in hand. He gawks for a moment, totally caught off guard by the illustration. At the bottom he finds the infamous signature: From: (Farmer)

~He smirks at the discovery. Leaning his head into his palm while still holding the paper with admiration in his eyes. His ears momentarily perk up as he hears a familiar voice outside. His granny, and behold, the farmer themselves!

~Alex quickly gets up from his chair and quickly makes his way outside. Nearly running into his grandmother, she walks inside with a happy, knowing smile on her face. Chasing after the farmer, he catches them just in time. “Running away when you’ve left me such a charming gift?” His smirking but his mostly playing around.

~ Chats with the farmer and manages to slip in they should come over for dinner with him and his grandparents. To which farmer gladly agrees.

~While Alex was away flirting with the Farmer, his grandmother finds the image on the table and decides to place it on the fridge. Alex dosen’t have the heart to move and honestly its the perfect place for it.

[teddy-yandere]

Hi can i request hawks x reader 📣🔥💋 (im not sure if you write for bnha hawks if not then its fine)

Prompts 📣🔥💋

“Gosh, you smell so good when we cuddle like this!”

“You think I’m jealous? Believe me, you haven’t seen me jealous yet.”

“I desire any physical touch with you so please hit me more.”

⚠️WARNING⚠️ will contain dark themes

A / N = Sorry for any grammar mistakes, I did not proofread this. Please read my bio before requesting, and make sure that my requests are open or else your request will be deleted. Enjoy <3

«★»———- Yandere Prompt List

«★»———- MHA Hero’s Masterlist

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★ You had just arrived home from a night out in the city with Hawks. In fact , this was the “ first time “ that you had been out in public since Hawks had kidnapped you. Hawks made sure to take you to a LOWKEY bar a couple of cities away from where he originally took you . That way you would have a less chance of being identified , and taken from Hawks

★ You angrily sat the bouquet of flowers that Hawks gave you on the counter. Honestly , Hawks didn’t know why you were so mad at him. The only thing that he did was “ protect “ you against the creepy people at the bar. Yeah sure , he might if broke a couple of jaws , but it wasn’t that big of a deal. Hawks didn’t know why you were acting so dramatic over such a small thing that he did in your honor. ( technically )

★ Suddenly , Hawks snapped out of his deep thoughts when he noticed that you were glaring at him from the other side of the counter. “ What is bothering you my little feather ?” Hawks asked in the nonchalant voice that he always seemed to have. “ I can’t believe you acted like that IN PUBLIC “ , you said with a sharp tone to your voice. “ Maybe if you weren’t so jealous , I would actually enjoy being with you “ you added to your statement. You knew that this would set Hawks off , but you didn’t seem to care one bit.

★ Hawks sighed as he tried to explain why he broke that man’s jaw. Just as he was in the middle of explaining why his actions were justifiable, you interrupted by saying = “ There is no reason for you to act like this you jealous freak “. Before you could even finish your sentence, Hawks walked very close to you , before finally saying “You think I’m jealous? Believe me, you haven’t seen me jealous yet.”

★ Hawks stared at you for a moment longer , before finally saying “ I am going to go finish off that person from the bar “. No matter how hard you tried to pull him back , or change his mind , you found that it was like talking to a wall. That being said , Hawks flew over to the bar , and luckily the person who was hitting on you was still there. Let’s just say they had a funeral planned the next weekend….

★ When Hawks returned home , you could tell what he had done by just looking at him. You immediately started crying when Hawks started to make his way towards you. Once he was in front of you , he slowly picked you up , and took you to the couch where he attempted to snuggle into your arms. You tried to push him off of you by insulting him , but you found that it was no use. Every single time you hit him , he would always respond with the same thing = “I desire any physical touch with you so please hit me more.”

★ Eventually you gave up on trying to fight him. You had also just come to the realization that Hawks would probably never let you leave the house again. The last thing you heard before you fell asleep was Hawks softly whispering “Gosh, you smell so good when we cuddle like this!” You knew that you were stuck with him whether you liked it or not .

★ Maybe you should’ve flirted , and danced with the other person at the bar …? Like that would make any difference to a delusional Hawks..

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Thanks for reading , Darling !! <3

Have a nice Day / Night ~

[heartbrkr]

a hindrance to peace

SUMMARY You remembered at an inconvenient moment that you weren’t your boyfriend’s first kiss, nor lover.

PAIRING kim sunwoo x gender neutral!reader

GENRE idolverse!au, established relationship, fluff, slight attempt at humor

WORD COUNT 1.6k

WARNINGS a jealous reader and an even more jealous sunwoo, they have a playful argument, two swear words, sunwoo is reader's first bf, nct's haechan mention (you'll see LOL), dialogue heavy

AUTHOR’S NOTE my first tbz/sunwoo fic inspired by this tiktok.. honestly, i'm a bit nervous to post this, but i loved writing it! feedback is greatly appreciated! ☻

MASTERLIST | REQUESTS: OPEN!

In between the adrenaline-filled moments with Sunwoo comes its fair share of soft and lingering ones that remind the memory of each other’s outline. Tonight was time for the latter, finding peace in the way your bodies intertwined on the sofa and words exchanged about anything and everything. At least, that was the initial plan.

He was talking about his latest project, accepting an offer to produce another group’s track. You were trying so hard to listen to him describe the vibe of the comeback, but the only thing you could feel was your overflowing pride for him. As a perfectionist, your boyfriend works very hard. You’re beyond delighted to find out that his talents and efforts have been paying off.

Out of excitement, you grab his face with the intention of giving him a congratulatory kiss. You both lean in, prepared to stop talking for the next few minutes, when all of a sudden, a revelation pops into your head:

Remember when he kissed people who weren’t you?

Your eyes are now wide open; you won’t let that slide. Though, you wonder why you’re only realizing it at this very moment. 

Sunwoo’s parted lips hover over yours, but they never meet. Your palms no longer squish his cheeks. Simultaneously, you glare down at his mouth.

“What? What’s wrong?” You see his lips move, but his words don’t process for you.

One of your eyes involuntarily twitches, vividly imagining how Sunwoo’s perfect, plush lips have moulded against ones that aren’t yours, sighed names that don't belong to you, caressed others’ skin with his bare hands. Held his past lovers closer with the intent of never letting go (he eventually did, though, obviously).

He can so clearly see your face morphing deeper in distress with every unpleasant thought that makes its way into your brain; hiding your facial expressions wasn’t exactly your best suit.

“Hey.” He sternly tries to call out, yet you’re still stuck in your sulk. For about a minute, he thought you were pulling a prank on him. But with every passing beat that you don’t acknowledge his attempts to pull you out of your state, he starts to feel dread seep into his body.

Gradually losing his cool, he pats the side of your thighs, face, and eventually finds his hands in your own. He shuts his eyes briefly in relief when he feels you return his touch. However, you still aren’t verbally responding.

You’re trying, though, and Sunwoo catches your mouth opening, only to release a deep breath. As you look for the words to verbalize what’s plaguing your mind, you don’t think you can do it without sounding stupid and petty. You know exactly how he’ll react, and you’re unsure if you’re mentally ready to handle that.

Fuck it, you think to yourself after a bit. Might as well say it now than let it get bigger than it actually is.

“Nothing.”

…Is what you weren’t supposed to say.

As you hesitantly look at his face, his features start to grow with impatience, one of the many things you were avoiding. He cuts you off before you could even sound a letter out of defense.

Sunwoo sighs out exaggeratedly. “Well, it must be so unimportant that you deprived me of a makeout, hm?”

You stopped yourself from rolling your eyes at his tone. “What I meant to say was, I remembered something,” he hums back at you rather impatiently, but you dismiss it, merely raising an eyebrow at him, “that I’m not the only person you’ve kissed.”

“Well, yeah. We have talked about this before. Why are you thinking about my exes when we’re about to kiss?” The plural term he uses only adds a prick to your already agitated nerves.

“But you’re all my firsts. Like, we were made for each other, and you were out there fucking around with people who weren’t me? It isn’t fair.” As you say each word aloud, you’re slowly realizing how unserious this was, but you’ll keep stringing the problem along. That’s what he gets for kissing other girls.

He laughs at you in disbelief with his eyebrows furrowed, just as you expected. “You aren’t serious, are you? Sounds like a you problem that you have zero game.”

Sunwoo tries to steal a teasing peck, but you’re faster to block him with a throw pillow, halfheartedly offended by his comment. “But when I bring up the fact that you shoved Changmin just because I said he was attractive before we were dating…”

Pushing the cushion away from his face and to the floor, he looks back at you with the biggest pout you have ever seen. If it weren’t for the context of your current banter, you would’ve already whipped out your phone to take a photo. “That’s because you aren’t supposed to look at men— and women— who aren’t me!”

“Why are you allowed to get jealous and I’m not?”

The raccoon-resembling man in front of you pauses for half a second, lacking a logical argument to counter you. So he says whatever comes to his mind next: “...Because!”

“Changmin didn’t deserve that, by the way.” “Stop that!”

“Not before you tell me why.” 

He shakes his head violently and laughs, which eventually turns into a series of cut-off whines. “‘Cause my eyes are only on you! You’re the one I think about, no one else. The only time I talked about my exes was ‘cause you brought the topic up, not me!”

Ignoring the fluttering in your stomach, today marked the day that you decided egging a jealous Sunwoo was the best form of personal entertainment. “But if you hid them any longer, wouldn’t you have been lying to me?”

Your boyfriend rubs his hands over his face and dramatically reclines over the sofa’s armrest, his torso gone from your sight. “Yah! You’re insufferable.”

“Someone has to keep up with you somehow.” You tell him before rising from your once comfortable spot. He feels the couch shift when you stand up to get away from him, only furthering the playful argument the both of you are having.

You purposefully pass his line of vision, but it backfires when his hand latches on your ankle, making you jolt in surprise. “No… Get back here…” Trails out of his mouth breathily from the awkward position he’s in.

A few forceful jerks of your leg isn’t enough for him to release you, so you resort to squatting to pinch his arm, which surprisingly works. However, you don’t get far when running away to a Sunwoo-free area, because he’s already right behind you.

He grabs you from your waist, dragging you back to the sofa. You resist his grip but the warmth of his arms is too comfortable to get out of. Intentionally, you make a weak attempt to escape. “Let me go!”

“No.”

“Okay, what if I told you Haechan from NCT was also handsome?”

That was enough for Sunwoo to loosen his hold and turn you around to face him by the doorway of the kitchen, no expression present. You try hard not to laugh at his face, but at the same time contemplating if you were taking this too far.

With the flattest tone he could muster, Sunwoo says to you, “Be serious.”

You couldn’t hold in your laughter any longer, your arms wrapping around him due to cute aggression caused by the man himself. He hugs you back tightly after failing to keep his arms to himself, pretending he’s still upset. Not being able to see his face due to your position, you could only imagine the sulkiest expression gracing his features.

When you pull away from the long embrace, you see the pouty face you visioned. With his cheeks back into your palms, he leans into your touch and you guiltily smile at him. “I’m sorry! I love you, my Sunwoo.”

He smirks at the emphasis on my, feeling the pace of his heart quicken. Of course, nothing gets past you, deciding that a simple mouth twitch was enough to bring up your fresh “fight”.

“Now you apologize. And don’t ask what for, unless you want another round of me pestering you?” His hand flies up to the back of your neck and lays your head on his shoulder, forcing you into another hug. “Nope, no more talking about exes and how you find my friends attractive.” 

There’s a pause between his first and next statement, leaving you patiently (loosely used) waiting for the apology that was asked for. To your surprise, his words were spoken sincerely instead of the sarcasm you anticipated.

“I’m sorry for not taking your existence into consideration when I had other partners before you. Won’t happen again. I love you, I promise you’re it for me.”

Your fondness for him multiplies by the thousands, so you show it by squeezing and swaying him to the fullest. Eventually, you start littering pecks all over his face and Sunwoo catches a glimpse of how your eyes are brimming bright with love. He indulges in the feeling, thanking everything and anything that he has you all to himself.

But you abruptly stop to look at him with an undecipherable expression and he resists letting out an irritated groan, thinking you still haven’t dropped the bickering from a few minutes ago.

Faux confusion appears on your face as you look up to the ceiling, index finger rhythmically tapping your chin. “Actually, I can’t really tell that you like me. Could you show me?” You make eye contact with him again, tilting your head with a pout.

Oh. He can do more than that.

[ashensgrotto]

Poor Unfortunate Souls (Part 2)

Characters: Azul Ashengrotto x Reader

Word Count: 7,398

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3a Part 3b (You are Here)

Per request from @twistedcece and @mermaidfan76 , I finished the third part to my Yandere Soulmate AU - yes, I have officially given it a name now. I think I might do a piece per each of the books in Twst - but I haven’t made any solid decisions yet.

Also - due to this being the third part, hence Octavinelle’s chapter in the game, this next part is going to be divided into two parts. The main reason is because there is a bit that happens and I want to make sure that I take my time with writing everything out for it, never mind that I am covering two overblots - Leona’s and Azul’s - in this section. I am also planning on revisiting part 2 and fixing that up a bit more - and I’ll post an update when that happens.

Now, fair warning, although this is likely not going to be graphic, it does show more of the possessive/obsessive behaviors that yandere characters are known for as well as the underlying threatening behaviors they can exhibit as well. I do not agree with these behaviors that are as follows, but I’m covering my basics.

But for now we stay so far

'Til our lonely limbs connect

I can't keep you in these arms

So I'll keep you in my mind

***

Soft humming echoed in the office of the VIP room as Azul filed the remaining documents in the safe, his gaze flickering over the rolled up golden contracts, a gloved finger touching the newest one in his collection.

"Ah, my dear," he murmured softly, "I think, tonight, the two of us will have an underwater rendezvous…"

"Azul!"

The octomer slipped out of the safe, shutting it behind him as he groaned, "Jade? Floyd? What's going on?"

"We seem to be having an issue in the lounge," the eldest eel mer explained, "Several of our workers called in sick and the place is being overrun by the students of Savanaclaw and Heartslabyul!"

“An’ it’s not just a handful, either - I’d say it’s the entirety of both dorms,” Floyd swallowed.

"Strange," Azul furrowed his brow, "It's not usual for both dorms to be in the same place at once, never mind most of the dorm…"

"That's what I was thinking," Jade nodded.

"Maybe they just got bored an’ decided to cause us some problems," Floyd suggested.

"Come, let's take a look at what the fuss is all about," Azul led the way out of his office with the two bodyguards following behind.

When he entered the lounge, the place was packed and in chaos. Students of the Octavinelle dorm were struggling to carry trays of food, drink, and take orders as the customers of Heartslabyul's and Savanaclaw's dorms lined every booth and table. Shouting and arguing overpowered the low hum of jazz that normally calmed the atmosphere of the lounge, the place now sounding like a gymnasium over a place of relaxation. Orders were running up miles high and tables were still full of empty dirty dishes - some in vacant areas - while the carpeted flooring was covered in crumbs and soaked with liquid from spilt drinks, staining the fabric.

"What in the Great Sea Witch's name is going on here?!" Azul looked at the state of his establishment, his eyes practically popping out of their sockets behind his glasses, "How did the lounge get in this state?!"

"Your guess is as good as mine," Floyd grumbled.

"Let’s get this mess straightened up," Azul growled, taking a few steps forward and heading into the crowd - taking charge over the floor and directing the staff. He barked orders for Jade to take over the kitchen and Floyd to take care of the bar - slipping between students and ordering his staff to straighten up and pick up the pace. Azul moved quickly, and when tensions rose, his training from his mother’s restaurant resurfaced again as he diffused the tension between staff and customer.

It took over an hour - but the Mostro Lounge had returned to its calm state eventually. Azul let out a sigh before narrowing his eyes, “Next time this happens… someone is going to be made into fried chicken.”

“Goodness, Azul,” Jade commented, resting a hand over his chest, “I had no idea you could be so cruel.”

“Cruel? Hardly,” Azul pulled his watch out, eyes widening, “and that little fiasco has made me late. I’m leaving for the pools - cover them with the curtains.”

Jade and Floyd snickered as Azul walked away, the octomer humming to himself before he let out a huff of annoyance, "Those two… if it wasn't for their unique magic and consistent badgering…"

He shook his head, closing his eyes as he tried to reign himself in. He couldn't let you see him in this state - you would be frightened of him more than you already were. Ever since your unexpected transformation nearly a week ago, Azul had been trying to get you to open up to him again as you had done when you first met. He was starting to get desperate, grasping at smoke every time he came and saw you, offering words of comfort even though they fell on deaf ears. Azul had sensed your own anger and fear of him - but the contract kept you bound to obey him when he called for you, your head popping above the waters of the Octavinelle pools to greet him and staying with him until he said you could leave.

And what a lovely little mermaid you had turned out to be…

Azul sighed in happiness, remembering his idea as he entered the pools - though his thoughts of bliss were cut short upon seeing four familiar figures waiting for him.

"Whoops, that was quick," Leona smirked as Azul entered the room.

"I thought you said it would be at least an hour before he got here," Riddle growled at the headwarden of Savanaclaw.

"Riddle, you know that Azul works fast," Trey answered, adjusting his glasses.

"Well, it was enough time to get what we needed done, done," Ruggie snickered.

"Hardly," Leona crossed his arms over his chest.

"What are you four doing here?" Azul's eyes narrowed, "These are private pools for the members of Octavinelle. No one else is permitted to enter."

"Oh? That's not what it seemed like to me," Riddle answered, "Azul Ashengrotto, we have reason to believe you are holding an individual hostage."

"Hostage?!" Azul laughed, "Riddle, explain this to me - is it really a hostage situation when the school permitted a person into my care and protection?"

"It is when the individual in question is being held against their will."

“Oh?” Azul grinned, “Really? The way I see it is that any individual that signs their names on my contracts - which are completely legal and binding - are in agreement with myself. They are completely unbreakable, even for you.”

“Are you certain about that?” Leona asked with a smirk, holding his hand out as Ruggie placed a familiar golden scroll into his hand.

Azul’s face paled, “W-Where… Where did you get that?!”

“I’m certain you already know.”

Azul’s hands slipped into his pockets, his eyes widening in fear, ‘The keys… the safe keys are gone!’

Ruggie let out a snicker, “Hey Azul, you know if you wanna keep somethin’ safe, you gotta keep your pockets secured too.”

“Give that contract back, give them all back now, if you please!” Azul growled, his hands curling into fists.

“Azul, calm yourself,” Riddle crossed his arms over his chest, “We can discuss this in a civilized manner.”

“That’s rich, coming from you,” Azul growled, opening his hand with palm up as his fingers twitched, “The contracts! Hand them over this minute!”

“How about we make a deal?” Leona asked.

“I’m… sorry?”

“Leona!” Trey looked over incredulously at the Savanaclaw headwarden.

“Hold it, Trey,” the Heartslabyul headwarden held his subordinate back, “Leona has this under control.”

Leona nodded and turned to Azul, “What are you prepared to offer us if we return the contracts to you? After all, this one is especially valuable to you, right?”

“I’ll… I’ll do anything! I’ll give you all the study guides you want. I’ll write each of your graduation thesises. I’ll pad your attendances. Anything! Just name it!”

“Interesting… Those are pretty tempting offers… However, here’s the thing. I owe (Y/N) for what happened to her during the Spelldrive Tournament and prior to that,” Leona crossed his arms over his chest, “No offense, but everything you just offered, asking for each of us to name a price for the return of these contracts… won’t cut it. It’s not enough to justify the return of the contracts - all six hundred plus of them - to you.”

“What?” Azul’s eyes widened.

“We know about the deal you made with Leona for the Spelldrive Tournament, and what you requested three of his dorm members to do to (Y/N) to keep her from seeking the help of other dorms in exchange,” Riddle answered, “We also know about your possessive behavior of her. (Y/N) is not of our world and deserves to return home to her family - where she belongs. As the headwarden of Heartslabyul and one of two people she’s helped; I, Riddle Rosehearts, will do everything within my power to keep her safe - even if it means I have to fight a fellow housewarden and classmate to do so.”

“And I would as well,” Leona smirked, “and any number of others would as well. Sorry Azul, but these contracts have got to go.”

“R-ridiculous!” Azul pleaded, “Don’t do it!”

“I am the one who hungers… I am the one who thirsts… I am the one to rob you of your future… Now, kneel before me! King’s Roar!”

The contracts in Leona’s hands began to glow before they slowly dissolved before everyone’s eyes. Azul watched in horror as sweat began to dribble down in his face at the sight of his carefully guarded plans disappearing into a pile of dust on the floor, “My… my golden contracts… all… reduced to dust… I-I… I don’t believe this…”

“Well, that settles that,” Ruggie looked at Azul then back to the others, “If you ask me, that was a convenient way to help both (Y/N) out and get your own contract with Azul out as well.”

“Speaking of which,” Leona looked at Trey and Riddle, “Where is our little magicless guest?”

“Deuce, Ace, and Grim took her to a safe room until this was all done,” Trey adjusted his glasses with a smile, “We had to keep her from getting injured any more than she’s already experienced.”

“Never mind that she’ll need help after being in that state for over seventy-two hours, if not more,” Riddle agreed.

“Just a couple of nice guys who can’t ignore a friend in need, huh?” Leona smirked.

“Hey! Listen to you! Crackin’ your own jokes!” Ruggie grinned with a smirk.

As the boys laughed with one another, Azul stayed where he was, his eyes glued to the pile of dust that once were his contracts.

“Hey! Frazzled Azul ink-spiller! Aw, you gonna cry? Why don’t you use one of your eight legs to wipe those tears away?”

Azul’s body began to shake before he screamed, startling the four as they looked on in horror, “I HATE THIS!! It’s GONE! My CAREFULLY AMASSED COLLECTION OF MAGIC! My OMNIPOTENT POWER! ALL… UP IN SMOKE! How could you DO this to ME!?! W-without it… without that… I… I…”

“What in the world?” Leona asked.

“Talk about changin’ your tune…” Ruggie agreed, ears flattening behind his head.

“I’m BACK TO BEING THAT ‘SILLY LITTLE OCTO-TWERP’ AGAIN!” Azul shouted, tears of black began to form in his eyes as his body shook harder as more black ink appeared to dribble off of his form, “That’s… THE LAST THING I WANT! I REFUSE! I REFUSE! I REFUSE! I don’t WANNA go BACK to being MY OLD SELF AGAIN! I CAN’T!!”

“What’s going on?!” Riddle’s eyes widened, “There’s a black aura growing around him…”

“Azul - come on,” Trey tried to reason with the sophomore, “There’s no need to get bent out of shape…”

“SHUT. UP!” Azul rounded on them as the magic grew thick and heavy, “You DON’T know me! You DON’T know my LIFE! All that time I spent being roundly mocked for my weakness… my intellect… NOBODY COULD EVER UNDERSTAND! …Not even her.”

Azul’s lips twisted then, tears and magic flowing around them as a heavy darkness seeped in through all of Octavinelle, matching the headwarden’s emotions, “Of course… It's so simple. If you lose something… just take it back. Give them to me… come on… I want your powers… I want… her. GIVE THEM TO ME!”

“Azul! What are you doing!?” Jade’s voice came through the thick darkness, making the headwarden turn to see his vicewarden with Floyd and… you.

“Whoa, yikes. What’s goin’ on here?” Floyd’s features twisted to fear as he took in the state of the pool area.

Azul’s magic and ink had begun to stain the flooring of the pool, painting it black, as the air became heavy as darkness seeped in all the crevices of the room and dorm. The waters of the pool had shifted from bright blue to a deep violet, the lighting fading to a pale yellow. Outside of the pool, the same could be said for the dorm - the once beautiful underwater dorm of Octavinelle had slowly turned dark and foreboding, with many of the remaining students that still remained.

"Jade! Floyd! You've come to me!" Azul's grin was wild and crazy.

"(Y/N)! What are you doing here!" Riddle shouted, "I told you to stay with the others!"

"Ridiculous!" You shouted at Riddle as you stayed near the twins, "Not with the dorm falling to pieces around us!"

"Azul's magic has been slowly draining some of the students in the lounge of their powers," Jade explained, "His unique magic is so powerful that if he's not careful-"

"SILENCE JADE!" Azul shouted, the magic growing heavier as the building shook.

"Azul! Your signature spell is too powerful, it's impossible to control without a contract scroll!" Jade pleaded, "You know better than anyone what will happen if you do this!"

"But… I've lost it all! Everything!" Azul laughed maniacally, "My power… my magic… my hopes and dreams… ALL UP IN SMOKE! I'LL REVERT BACK TO MY OLD SELF IF I DON'T ACT NOW!"

"Y'know Azul, I never saw you as lame," Floyd said, "But now? The way you're actin' is… pretty lame."

"Oh? Is that a fact?" Azul grinned, his sharp eyes falling on your figure as you trembled behind the twins, "I'm just a 'silly little octo-twerp' who can't do anything on his own? Well, then… I’ll prove you wrong. I'll take everyone's powers. I'll rise above your perceptions. A beautiful singing voice! Powerful magics! A perfect little soulmate! ALL OF IT MINE! HAND IT OVER AT ONCE!"

Screams were heard and a shield of magic came around Trey, Riddle, Ruggie, and Leona as the headwarden fought off the attack of magic draining as great black blobs rolled off of Azul’s form. Jade pulled you off to the side as Floyd countered the attack as well.

"What's all that gunk comin' outta Azul?!" Floyd was beginning to panic, "That ain't… ink, is it?"

"He's using his signature spell too much!" you shouted.

"Azul! Snap out of it!" Leona ordered, "The blot is exceeding your cumulative tolerance!"

"I think it's too late for that…" Jade murmured as a dark shadow came over the headwarden of Octavinelle.

All was still and silent for a moment before several large black tentacles appeared from the darkness. The light slowly revealed a mer creature that no one had seen before - black blot clung to his form, dribbling down his sides and chest as several shells and pieces of coral lined his waist and shoulders as his tentacles writhed in the open, a nautilus shell necklace secured by two golden chains clung to the creature's neck as a shorter crown of black perched on the top of his head. More black blot circled around his shoulders as his eyes opened to reveal glowing purple irises that were wild with anger and desperation.

"Azul…"

"You pitiful, insignificant fools!" The creature that once was Azul Ashengrotto shouted, as a dark shadow appeared behind him - this one taking on the form of the legendary Sea Witch of the Coral Sea herself.

"Come on! We have to snap Azul back to senses!" Riddle readied himself for battle as the others did the same.

You take a hesitantly step towards Azul, only for Jade to pull you back.

"Not now, (Y/N)," he whispered softly, "Azul's not in the right state of mind. You could get hurt."

“But, Jade-”

“Jade’s right, Shrimpy,” Floyd turned to his brother, all traces of joking gone, “We have ta stop Azul from goin’ too far - knowin’ him, he’ll try somethin’ if ya get too close.”

Jade nodded in agreement, turning toward you, “Please, (Y/N). For our sake and your friend’s sake, sit this one out.”

You didn’t have a chance to argue as the twin eels took off toward Azul. The creature behind him followed his instructions just as Leona’s and Riddle’s had done during their overblots - however, this one seemed twice as big and twice as strong. A large triton appeared in the creature’s hands as Azul ordered it to fight off his attackers, the weapon being used for blunt force and electrical hits. Trey and Ruggie tag-teamed each other alongside the twins to keep Azul distracted while Leona and Riddle used both fire and grass magic to weaken him as well as protect their allies.

“Enough!” Azul’s twisted voice shook the pool area, throwing everyone off balance, “Why do you keep bullying me?! Is it because I’m a slow dimwitted octopus?! All I wanted was… to prove them wrong… I just…”

“Azul! You know that is not the case!” Jade shouted, “We don’t want to hurt you in the slightest!”

“Come on, octy. Snap out of it!” Floyd agreed.

Azul gritted his teeth as he turned his attention toward them, “Shut up! You weren’t there! You weren’t there when I was forced into an octopot! You weren’t there when I was poked and prodded! Stones thrown at! I refuse to go back to that!”

You could feel the tears in your eyes at his words. You felt something surge within you as you stood from your spot and ran towards Azul, who continued to rage, the triton being raised again.

“(Y/N)!” Riddle’s voice echoed in the pool area before a resounding smack echoed in the room before white erupted your vision as Azul fell.

***

“Hey! Frazzled Azul ink-spiller!”

Azul’s eyes shifted to look out from his hiding spot as a group of merchildren gathered outside the octopot - their faces blurred, but their smiles were all the same.

“Aw, you gonna cry? Why don’t you use one of your eight legs to wipe those tears away?” one merchild called out as the group laughed wickedly.

“C-Cut it out,” Azul’s voice came out like a whimper, small and weak, “Why are you being so mean to me?”

“Run for it quick!” Another merchild shouted as they began to circle around the group, “He’s gonna ink us!”

“Aha ha ha! He couldn’t even keep up with us if he tried!” another voice broke out as laughter surrounded Azul from every angle.

Azul covered his ears and closed his eyes as the laughter echoed in his head, the sounds of their laughter shaking him to his core as his tentacles curled around him. Shadows passed over him as the merchildren encircled his hiding spot over and over, the mocking singing of ‘Octo-twerp! Octo-twerp! Azul is an octo-twerp!’ ingrained into his head.

“Enough!” Azul cried out as a thick black cloud encircled him, hiding him away as the voices faded.

Azul blinked and found himself as his seventeen-year old self again - but he wasn’t alone.

You were there, standing a foot away from him, eyes dripping with tears. You wiped at them, sniffling softly.

“Angelfish…” Azul started.

“Don’t, Azul,” You said, intaking a deep breath, “I saw it - how it all started.”

“What?” he looked at you in disbelief, “How?”

“I… don’t know, to be completely honest. When I experienced my first overblot with Riddle, I sensed an urge to touch him and when I did - I could see his past, what happened to him that made him the way he was. Same with Leona. Same… with you.”

You take a deep breath, “I don’t know why or understand how people could be so cruel to people that look different - because we’re all different. We each have our own backgrounds and stories, our families are different and we all grow up in different ways. But that shouldn’t make it okay for us to torment each other - it’s never okay. And… to place the expectations of something on someone… isn’t right either.”

“I just… I didn’t want to be alone, (Y/N),” Azul begged, “I had been alone most of my young life…”

“But don’t you see, Azul?” you ask, “You’re doing the same thing to me that your bullies did to you. You hurt me - even though it wasn’t by your hand.”

Azul looked down - you were right. He had treated you unfairly. He had treated you like his bullies had treated him - he had been blinded by his obsession for you.

“I’m… I’m sorry, angelfish,” Azul spoke softly, looking up at you, “I… I just wanted to keep you close. You’re my heart, my other half…”

“You might think that, but that can never be,” you explain.

“Why? Why not, angelfish?”

“Wounds… no matter what they are, take time to heal… and you have left a large scar over my heart. You broke my trust with you.”

Azul looked down again and sighed, “You’re right… I did.”

You nod slowly, offering your hand out to him, “Azul - come with me. Let’s get you back to where you need to be.”

Azul looked at your offered hand, “What?”

“You can’t stay in the darkness forever, Azul. You can’t wallow in self-pity or self-hatred. It’s… what caused this to happen in the first place. Come with me… and we’ll go into the light together and get you the help you deserve and need.”

Azul looked at your hand again, his gloved hand reaching out and slowly taking a hold of it.

As he did, a bright light enveloped both of you.

[ilariyalavorowrites]

Time enough for love (Bridgerton) Part Two

imagine: A mission to ensure Kate and Anthony find each other during the social season of 1814. Time travelling into the past to ensure that crucial moments occur. However, you find yourself falling in love with the pair. It breaks your heart when it comes to leaving and returning to the future.

Warnings: Angst with an eventual happy ending, AU, Bisexual Kate, Scandal, such a scandal

Pairings: Kate Sharma x Reader x Anthony Bridgerton

Word count: 3,671 words

Universe: Bridgerton

Reader gender: Female

Author: Ilariya_Lavoro writes

Tagged: @agathaharknessfan96 @homie0sapien @a-lil-bit-nuts @2pagenumb @tulipatheticee @alohastitch0626 @choasinterludee

Part two of ?

Previous / Next

March 20, 1814

As the light of the new morning danced through the small bedroom, you took this as a sign that it was time to get up. It had been more than an hour since you woke, finding the bed rather too lumpy for your liking, tossing and turning until at last exhaustion had taken hold. With what little good sleep you had gotten, you pushed onwards, yawning more than a few times as you dressed in the clothes that had been laid out on the singular chair that stood off to one side. Your arrival had long since been prepared for. 

A trunk sat by the door, full to the brim with tailored dresses for the wide variety of balls, gatherings and the necessary dinners that you would have to ingratiate into. All whilst the members of the ton kept one eye fixed firmly upon you, achieving the primary goal of the mission.

You dared to take a peek by candlelight the previous evening. Each garment was beautifully crafted much like the one that came before, artfully hand stitched into being. The embroidered bodices of the most intricate ball gowns were something that you had never considered something you’d ever wear but yet here it was, as part of the life you’d be slipping into. A character to embody in the weeks, nay even months that lie ahead.

There was no given deadline, to have all this wrapped up by but you knew that in the next few hours, you’d be briefed and sent off straight into the very heart of London as the ton preened ready for the upcoming social season.

The flocks of fresh-faced debutantes and their high-strung marriage-minded mothers counted down the days until then. As they lavished in their Country Estates, enjoying the last few carefree days of their youth until the bell tolled, putting an end to childish toys and thoughts. Such was the larks of freedom. 

With their leading strings severed, knowing it was time to enter the world that the litany of tutors, nannies and instructors had prepared them for. A revolving door heightened by the anxiety of mama’s worrying about if and when matches would make for their child. If the place upon the chess board would be secured this go around, as they carefully watched from the sidelines, pulling at strings here and there to try and even the odds in their favour.

You would have to play along, be that innocent chit wishing for a good match, to find that romanticised ideal of what a husband might be. Knowing what was  ingrained in the minds of these young women since birth. The rare love match that they all desired.

As the very notion set in, doubt soon followed suit. Would you be convincing enough as one of their own to blend into the crowd? Or would your cover be blown and the lies exposed for all the world to see? Gossip spread much the same as wildfire. Taking roots as it consumed all its destructive path without a thought for whoever was caught in its vicious crosshairs.

The sudden sound of knocking echoed through the small chamber. Sending you tumbling back down to reality, out of such troubling thoughts. “Come in” You hastily called, rising from your seated position on the bed as the door cracked open to reveal a red-headed woman beaming brightly at you.

“I hope that I’m not disturbing you” She nervously started as she took a few dainty steps further into the room. “No, not at all. To be honest, I’m just equally anxious as I am excited to get started” You continued, almost stumbling over the words. Your companion chuckled softly as the tension in the room lessened.

“I’m Madelyn Carver,” She said, introducing herself. “I thought now would be a good time to start getting to know one another, especially as we will be spending a lot of time together” 

You tilted your head to one side, waiting for her to continue with her explanation. You knew that each of the members of the team had been assigned a particular role. Yours was that of Miss Sterling, the younger sister of Lord Sterling who had returned to London intending to find a husband. Your entire background had been carefully crafted to ensure a seamless fit into the rigorous world of the upper class.

“I am to be your lady’s maid, you will have to address me as Miss Carver out in public but you can call me Maddie behind closed doors” She continued on, her carefree smile never fading as she spoke. 

“I know that I don’t look the part yet but we have time before we need to head off to London. Eddie will start the brief soon and he’s sickler when it comes to tardiness” Madelyn joked as she sat on top of your clothing trunk. 

“Eddie? He lets you call him that” You asked, knowing that in all your interactions with Scout Wren. He never seemed much like an Eddie. “He hates it, only Darcy gets a free pass” Madelyn answered nonchalantly, her answer revealed nothing that you didn’t already know. 

“Darcy Greyson will be my brother Lord Sterling right?” You said as you tried to recall the names and roles of the individuals who you would be interacting with on a daily basis. 

“Pretty much, He’ll be guiding you through each social occasion and ball as your sponsor, alongside Captain Leigh McNair” The explanation was simple and straight to the point, you already knew this but it had been over a year since your last conversation with either of them. They had been part of the second wave to leave, heading back further in time than you did.

They had an important objective of their own to complete, without them laying down the necessary foundation then you’d have a steeper and almost completely uphill climb. For reputation was a currency, all of its own that which opened doors to the most exclusive of events and the most lavish of homes. Without them, it would be a losing fight against centuries of established rules and traditions to even a get a foot in the door.

Darcy and Leigh had been with you since the very beginning, meeting them had been the first test.There needed to be an ounce of believability that you were indeed a family. That he was your darling older brother and she, his loving wife and your companion as you dared to take that first step out into society. 

You had lived under one roof, dining together and training side by side, right up until their deployment papers arrived. It had been bliss as if you truly had been moulded into a found family. You were eagerly looking forward to being reunited once more.

“This is my first posting into the past” Madelyn quietly admitted, her tone full of nerves and anxiety. This caught your attention, bringing you out of your contemplation as you finally saw her. You had been in her shoes once before, wide-eyed and bushy-tailed, stepping out into a different world, unlike the one in which you had grown up in.  Eager to show your mettle but at the same time weighed down by your own boding sense of failure.

“I know how you feel, I’ve been there too but we are in this together” You smiled through your words laced with sincerity. “We’ll support each other throughout our time here” It was the same olive branch that you had been extended when you were that green. You watched as her eyes found your own, her smile beaming back at you once more. “I’d like that”

---------------------------------------------------------------------------Vida Martin had never been one to stand out in a crowd. She blended into the shadows with relative ease. It could be called a talent but she had never seen it that way, a hindrance maybe. Throughout school and well into college, it had left a bitter taste in her mouth as she watched on, lonely and craving to be part of something more but it had led her down a different path. To be recruited by the most secretive of the military branches and trained for covert operations.

Her hands moved rapidly, to brush out any visible creases in the simple ankle-length black dress she wore. Her white apron had been tightly fastened around her waist, to ensure that it didn’t come loose as she worked. Today would mark the end of her trial period; it had been several months since her arrival at Aubrey Hall with references highly praising her tireless work.

Others had travelled further back than she but the last three years had not been with a few teething problems.This had been frustrating for her, to try and untangle the knots as she worked her way up the ladder. To be seen as a potential candidate for the role of Miss Eloise’s lady maid when the job itself became available.

Vida counted down the days, and soon enough the Young Miss would make her debut and step out into society. Eloise would then require her very own maid, this post was where she needed to be. It would be the prime location for information gathering but also would present the opportunity to pass her report along as the lady’s maid would accompany her mistress out as she ventured into London. Then all she would need to do was locate Madelyn and subtly make the exchange.

She would have to wait for the moment to arrive, for everything had been timed down to the second. Vida held on to the belief that all would go to plan but then again, there was always room for human error. 

“Miss Martin, come we need to break the fast” The stern but fair voice of Mrs Wilson floated down the length of the hallway as she called out. The Bridgerton's housekeeper had been the one throughout her time within these prestigious halls who had yet to warm up to her. She had never been treated any differently from the other maids and female servants but still, there was the chill that hung in the air whenever they were alone. A distrust that could not be shaken but then again, she understood why this would be.

Vida was the newest in the long line to enter service and most remained for the entirety of their life. Mrs Wilson was no different, she had started at the bottom and worked tirelessly to climb the ranks, all the way to the top. She shook her, gently smiling to herself as she made her down the hall. Another workday had only just begun. Vida was one step closer but she needed to work harder than before. She needed to be noticed.

She chuckled as the thought entered her mind. “What a strange thing for a spy, to be seen in the dark” She quietly whispered to the empty corridor. She was forever on guard, always careful as the chance of being unknowingly overheard could easily spell disaster and she could not be the one to fail.

She lived for espionage; Vida was built to acclimatise to whatever was thrown her way. She lived and breathed the shadows that she eagerly called home, this was nothing more than a simple information-gathering exercise, much like the ones that she breezed through during basic training. Mrs Wilson was just another fork in the road, one that needed to be crossed with delicate and subtle handling. She just had to wait for the right moment to show her hand, keeping her cards close to her chest until that moment arose.

Eloise Bridgerton was her primary target but she had a secondary objective, one only known to a few. For Information flowed in both directions, the give and take. Vida would use what Madelyn had been instructed to pass along and slip tidbits as passing remarks both upstairs and downstairs to be filtered back into the Ton using the network of servants who happily gossiped about their masters and mistresses like it was an Olympic sport or the meddling lips of anxious mamas. All to find a way to land upon the desk of Lady Whistledown. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------The journey to London had been a long and tiring one. It had taken many days to traverse the roads leading to the Capital. The ornate carriage had been unfamiliar territory, with its light grey plush interior lining the walls and ceiling and its rather uncomfortable lightly cushioned bench seats that you had been seated upon for the last several hours. 

Thankfully you had not been alone, Madelyn sat across from you. Edward and Corporal Archie Jones who had only briefly met before setting off at the crack of dawn. He had only spoken a few words before returning to harnessing the horses that pulled the carriage as Edward focused on loading up your trunks and Madelyn’s smaller luggage.

It had been a strange sight to witness those two individuals seamlessly working side by side, like well-oiled cogs in a machine without speaking a single word. Gone were your comfortable fatigues and combat boots buried beneath layers of silk, cotton and taffeta dresses for the many balls and social occasions ahead.

The overnight stops had been strategically selected, ones that the lower-ranking members of society would use. Where it was easier to escape the eagle-like gaze of marriage-minded mamas on the lookout for their daughter’s competition, even before the race to the altar had officially begun.

Each stop brought new waves of anxiety and excitement, the closer they had gotten to their destination the quieter the inside of the carriage had become. Both you and Madelyn had taken to watching the green hills of the countryside roll by, with the thin curtains draping over your heads. It was hard to forget Edward’s words before departing the Inn at before the final stretch.

“You’ll need to stop acting like this is a sightseeing holiday, act like the Lady you are meant to” His tone had been biting, for his bark was most definitely worse than his bite. You would not be caught acting like a fool. To be viewed as a simpering child gawking at the world as this was not how you wished to be viewed, even before you had stepped an inch over the threshold that was society. It would reflect badly upon Darcy, no you needed to refer to him by his codename Lord Bernard Sterling. Your reputation was tightly woven with his, what you did impacted where he could go and how he was seen. 

Your reputation was immensely fragile as if you had been wrapped in a thin layer of glass. All it would take was one wrong move and it would shatter around you. Leaving you no longer being seen as a viable option.

No Lord, Duke, Earl or Viscount would dare to approach with an offer of a dance. You would stand there on the fringes with an empty dance card, the social pariah. You could not let that happen. You could not, no would not be the reason that this mission was deemed a failure.

Madelyn turned her head, taking in the tense posture in the way that you sat. Clutching the fabric of your light travelling dress, bunching it up and twirling it between your fingers. Nerves on show as plain as day. She reached across, softly wrapping her hands around your quivering one. You raised your gaze to meet her, surprised by the sudden action but comforted by the softness in her eyes.

“We’ll be fine, after all, we’ll get through this together”

The carriage wheels came to a final stop, after traversing the bumpy streets of London. It had been an unpleasant sensation compared to the smoother tarmac roads that you had known two hundred years in the future. This was something that would take time to get used to. 

Many short trips would be taken into the city, whether that be trips to the Modiste or to attend balls and soirees across the length and breadth of this fine city.  You took a moment to gather your thoughts as the carriage door opened. You had expected to see Archie standing there, dressed in his light grey livery with his gloved hand open for you to take but instead, you found yourself with a smile from ear to ear at the welcomed sight of Darcy. 

Archie stood by his side, silent but ready to assist. He was already entrenched within his role. This was the reminder you needed at this moment. Once you left the safety of the Carriage, then you’d be truly putting away who you had been. You were no longer a Captain, you were Miss Sterling, Sister of Lord Sterling, ready to be guided through a world where you belonged. One that you had been ‘born’ into. 

You took Footman Jones’s hand, stepping out of the carriage using the small step to climb down to stand on street level in front of the impressively large house that would be your home for the foreseeable. 

It was breathtaking to behold, with its sculpted and pristine lawn hidden behind an iron fence and gate that acted as an entrance and boundary line.  The vivid pops of colour from the flowers that had wrapped around the bars added to its beauty, softening the harsh nature associated with iron bars. A deterrent to all those beneath them to stay away but at the same a welcoming sight for the aristocracy.

It was hard not to stand there and stare up at Sterling House. “Welcome home, Sister” There was a familiar but simmering warmth surrounding his words. His usual relaxed mannerisms had been reigned in, to a degree that you almost did not recognise. If this had been back at St James’s House, then he would have thrown his arms around you, pulling you into a tight embrace. Instead, he stood tall towering over you, keeping a slight yet polite distance between the two of you.

You turned your head to face Darcy. “Thank you, Brother” A small genteel smile remained on your lips as you followed after his retreating form. This was your first encounter with Lord Sterling, not Darcy Greyson. The man you knew disappeared beneath the Velvet tailcoat and silk waistcoat. It was his armour to present to the world, to protect the true man that was hidden beneath. This was nothing new for a seasoned veteran such as him.

Your eyes darted from left to right, taking in the figures outside Sterling House. All of the servants lined up to greet you upon arrival alongside their employer. None of them would meet your gaze but you took in the faces of those who came before. You knew their names for Edward had been thorough in his brief, providing a portfolio with the profiles of each member of the household whether they were assigned upstairs or downstairs.

You needed to be well informed on the day-to-day life within Sterling House. It effectively was the base of all operations, where information was received, filled and distributed via the boots on the ground. Whilst you moved within the circles of high society, others mingled amongst the working class. 

Stepping into the entrance hall, your gaze lifted taking in the breathtaking masterpieces lining the way. One stood out, the largest hung proudly above the central staircase. It was a family portrait that you didn’t remember sitting for but there you were posed alongside Darcy and Captains O’Brien and Matthews. Both who had already been extracted.

Extractions had never been easy, knowing the full extent and level of planning that went into each of the various methods offered to all team members. You had made your choice and the psychological evaluations that came after had been grovelling to ensure that you had made the right choice and you understood what this meant in the long term. You always had the beacon to signal that it was time to begin extraction hidden upon your person. It needed to always be close at hand just in case.

O’Brien and Matthews’s faces stern and firm stared down from within the frame, as you tried to relax but the weight still lingered upon your shoulders. The imaginary starting pistol had been prepped and was ready to fire. Everything was about to change.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------- The light breeze of a late morning stroll had been exactly what he needed. The season was almost upon them, Benedict could hardly wait. The tediously overzealous mamas on the hunt for a husband for their dull and uninspiring daughters lurking at the edge of the dancefloor, eager to pounce.

It was far from ideal for this second son as he turned onto Grosvenor Square, returning from his latest venture. His gaze lazily wandered from one side to the other, until it landed on the sight of a carriage pulling into Sterling House. The property had sat silent for more than a single turn of a season. He had heard whispers of the passing of the previous Lord and Lady throughout the first few months of the prior year. A tragedy indeed.

The Sterlings had remained away from society, choosing to stay in the country as the months ticked by. His son had been on honeymoon with his new bride, which had been cut short as he was called home to take up his place as his father’s heir and the new Lord Sterling. Benedict had only met Bernard Sterling a handful of times, as he engaged in conversation with his older brother Anthony. He had noted a few similarities but there seemed to be more hidden beneath the surface.

Bernard had mentioned his younger sister in passing, but she had been long since carted off to learn under the care of their maternal aunt who lived in France. It was hard to miss that smile that appeared whenever he mentioned his dear sweet sister. He stood still, choosing to watch the arrival of Lord Sterling’s sister. His curiosity peaked, as this tidbit of information might be worth mentioning to Anthony. A playful smile pulled across his lips as he continued walking on.

[ladyevol]

And here it is! My first fic for my Hotguy Must Die au. I'm posting some of it here, but for those who want to read everything, you can find the fic in AO3. Going forward, I plan on writing one shot fics for this AU exploring the characters and the world building in general since this is my version of what Hotguy might look like. Let me know who you'd like to see explored in future installments. You can check out the rest here

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Wolfbane

Fandom: Hermitcraft

Ships: Scar X Grian (very minor in this one, you can definitely see them as platonic), Pearl X Original Character

Tags: Character death, minor character death, Angst, werewolves, Abusive relationships (not between any of the main characters)

The first thing that the man felt after what appeared to be infinite void was warmth. It touched his skin faintly at first, however, the more stationary he remained, the more determined it became to bring him back to the world of the living. Then, he felt the dirt beneath him, reminding him that he was no longer falling in nothingness for all of eternity. Next, there was the sound of birds in the distance, the wind in his ears and his chest and finally the feeling of something soft and familiar pressing against his cheek. The man finally opened his eyes.

There was a time when he would have been much more desperate to wake up, to escape nothing and return to the world of the living, often accompanied by gasps, quick movement and eyes looking to the sides. Now though, all he felt as he came back was tired. The darkness felt almost welcoming, as if his moments inside it were the only time he could truly rest. Of course, those thoughts were nothing but wishful thinking. Even if he did lay there forever, death would eventually find him again and it was never kind.

This time death came in the form of his neighbor, as it often did. What it wasn't normally, however, was Pearl. She, despite being one of the most capable people he knew, was also one of his neighbors who had given him the least of a bad time. Pearl Moon was once a hunter, one of the guards who were tasked with protecting the city from the monsters and dangers that spawned with the night by tracking them down and destroying, however, an unfortunate encounter with a werewolf left to her forever tarnished, even if she was the winner by the end. The woman, now contaminated with lycanthrope, was ‘asked’ to retire by her supervisors, leading her to eventually moving into the complex and taking a job as a mailwoman, the same role he met her as and that she continued to enact in the many years they had been friends, so the idea that Pearl would just forget to take her medicine that kept her hunger under control was difficult to believe. Yet, it was her claws that had torn through his torso the previous night, her teeth that gnashed his bones and her mutated fingers that pulled his heart from his chest in his final moments of consciousness. He really didn't want to think what she had done with the rest of his body after his death.

Scar rubbed his eyes and blinked a few times to see a familiar gray and white cat looking down at him. Her sight always managed to make his situation feel at least a little bit better. “Hello there.” He said softly and reached to scratch the back of her ear and the cat purred in return, tail curling to let her glee be known. “Always on time, aren't you, Jellie?”

Six in the morning, that was when Scar awoke after every death and around the same place, the hole of Boatem, located in the ruins of an old village in the woods not too far from the city that had burned down twenty something years prior and left the area as a graveyard for its previous residences. The fire had consumed all plant life and since nothing had managed to grow there. Even people had reported to feel uneasy and even sick from being there for too long, so most tried to avoid it. Scar didn't have a choice. Death would always find him and he would always wake up the next day right there. He had grown as certain of it as he was that the sun would rise again the following morning.

“At least it isn't raining this time, right?” He spoke to Jellie who replied with a meow before he looked at the clothes and wheelchair next to the cat. “I'm hoping that you brought some better clothes for me this time, Jellie.” She meowed as he slipped it on, “yeah, yeah, I know, I know, making me wheel around in False's dress was funny and I did slay with it,” his voice became more high pitched and he laughed. “But she wasn't too happy that I had her dress. You'll make people think I'm a creep or something who goes around stealing the clothes of his friends. I would like to be able to at least keep my friendships, please.” He finished with the oversized gray hoodie he recognized as his roommate's, Cub, back from when he was in college and he was pretty sure the black sweatpants were his as well. He didn't know why Jellie wouldn't just bring him his own clothes, but he could at least explain why he was wearing his roommates clothes pretty easily. All of his other clothes were washing and Cub didn't actually care, so that was that.

The brunette man sat on his chair, buckled his belt and began rolling away on the dirt with the cat laying on his lap.

It took Scar thirty minutes to return to the city, and from there, another hour and a half to get inside his complex. The city was buzzing with life as always, none the wiser that their main hero and vigilante, Hotguy, had met yet another gruesome end the previous night. There was a time when it drove him mad that no one could remember his demise. All of his pain and suffering, all his blood spilled and tears and broken bones and he couldn't get an ounce of comfort or relief anything, any sort of response other than curiosity as to why Scar had disappeared all of a sudden or whatever their minds told them that had happened. Now though he was almost glad that was the case. It was best if he just suffered alone. He was used to it anyway. Even physical evidence of his deaths seemed to get mysteriously corrupted. Photos, videos, nothing worked. It was clear to him that whatever kept bringing him back didn't want to be seen. It was almost a shame that Hotguy wholeheartedly disagreed with the idea.

His smile was everywhere, from posters to billboards to shirts worn by the youth. They all knew hotguy, the hero who would die for the safety if he had to and he would. Over and over again, regardless if he wanted to or not, so, might as well make the best out of it. Death would always come after him, but maybe he could use that as an opportunity to prevent it from coming for someone else. Seeing the tears of joy of a mother being reunited with her son after all hope was lost or the joy of a child holding their kitty thought to be lost almost made it all worth it. It was at least enough to make him keep going.

Scar pushed the door of the building open and was immediately met with the smell of mold, dust and different types of food being prepared in the nearby apartments above him. His place wasn't anything fancy, in fact, quite the opposite. Some might think the building to be old and in extreme need of renovations, but to Scar it only gave it personality and made it one of the few affordable places in the city for a lesser known architect still hoping to make a name for himself with a working elevator. Scar pushed the button and waited for the doors to open before rolling inside. After selecting his floor, he waited for the door to shut, only for it to be interrupted by an arm being shoved between the doors just before they met. “WAIT!”

“Huh?” Scar blinked as the metal retreated to reveal a shorter man with pale skin and dirty blonde hair. The glasses around his black eyes made it seem considerably smaller than they actually were, like dots on a canvas and the scarf around his neck hid away his mouth and part of his nose. The rest of his body was covered by a similarly colored sweater and gray leggings. Grian strolled inside without another world and stood next to Scar after making sure that the man had indeed clicked the right button to their floor. “Oh, hey G. How are ya?”

As soon as the doors were shut, Grian replied by flicking Scar's forehead who immediately rubbed the area, less so due to the pain and more so from instinct. “What was that for?!”

“What the hell was the bright idea, huh?! Leaving me all alone with a WEREWOLF?! Scar, she could have killed me!”

He knew. She nearly did. They had underestimated Pearl's intelligence while fully transformed. A hunter was a hunter, even as a wolf like monster unable to speak or recognize those around her. She tricked them into thinking that they had the upper hand, only to use the opening to attack the one of the two of them she thought to be weaker, smaller. Scar refused to let any harm come to his partner, even if that meant jumping in front of her jaws. The rest he would rather forget. “Right, right, sorry, I just really needed to use the bathroom all of a sudden, haha.” Scar forced a laugh and rubbed the back of his head.

Grian took a deep breath. “You can't trick me, Scar. I know you just got scared and ran away. You always do this! Honestly, what would people think if they learned that their greatest hero, the only one in the city that isn't a dog for the government, is a fraud?! A coward that runs away when things get too rough! You are meant to be a symbol of hope, Scar!” Grian grabbed his face and squeezed his cheeks while staring into his green eyes. “Act like it!”

Scar gently moved his hands to grab Grian's wrists gently and pull them away. The younger man let him. “Sorry, G. Really, I just- can't help it.” He sighed, “but hey, at least Hotguy can always count on his aMAYzing sidekick to clean up the mess, huh?”

Grian exhaled deeply and pinched the bridge of his nose, “right. The thing is, Cuteguy isn't nearly as popular as Hotguy now, is he? People don't like Watchers, Scar. You know what they do like? Underdog's story, like a regular guy that somehow manages to defeat all the monsters the hunters were supposed to keep us safe from and the weirdos that keep appearing every day.”

“Well, I'm not a complete regular Joe, G. You know that.”

“Right, you have Vex blood in you from,” he began counting on his fingers, “four generations ago?”

“Three, actually.”

“Wow, amazing. You can use your magic to aim really well and walk for a limited amount of time.”

“Ouch.”

“C'mon, Scar. You know what I mean! You're the image of everything everyone in this city wants to be. You're their hero. You need to start acting like it.”

Scar looked down. Grian was right. He needed to do better. Be better. Everyone was counting on him. It was just so difficult to do it most days, when he knew that eventually the pain would come again, he would die in a horrific way and no one would even remember. He felt so isolated most of the time, distant like there was a wall separating him and the rest of the world. He couldn't even remember a time when it wasn't there. “Sorry Grian.” He said finally, “you're right. I just got scared.” Scar was always. So. Scared.

Grian looked at him for a moment before his shoulders sagged and his gaze softened. “It's fine. Whatever. It's not like I got hurt in the end. Apparently, just after you left, Pearl found this sack of meat that she ate for long enough for me to bring her down and lock her.”

Ah. So that was what he saw his body as this time. A literal sack of meat. “Y-yeah, pretty lucky. Did she get hurt? Did the police?”

“No, I left with her before the guards arrived. And the hunters. Like I said, after eating she was considerably more amiable. Werewolves are not brainless. They are just hungry.

The more Grian spoke, the sicker Scar felt. “Ok, and did you manage to talk to her after she transformed back? Is her boyfriend ok?”

“Yeah. Apparently the worst thing that happened was her standing him up since they were supposed to have a date. I don't think she told him what happened. I'm not even sure he knows what she is.” Grian gently scratched Jellie's ear. She purred.

“So there were no casualties.”

“No. Only a butcher shop that got invaded and a lot of meat that was stolen. Compared to our other jobs, it was pretty clean actually.” It certainly didn't feel clean. The door opened and Grian walked out, holding the door for Scar long enough for him to roll out. “Listen, you should at least talk to her sometime, ok? Comforting people is your expertise, not mine. It's part of the reason why people love you.”

“Silver tongue Scar, that's what they call me.” The brunette smiled slightly, “should I go as, you know.” He tilted his head to his door slightly.

“That's for you to decide. But whatever you do, do it quickly. Also, you really gotta steal people's pants, man. They just don't look good on you.” Scar looked down at his pants that were seemingly slipping away before pulling away. “Thank-” the door shut behind Grian, leaving Scar all alone in the hallway.

The exhaled deeply before turning around to go to his apartment, located in front of Grian's only to then stop to look at the apartment next to his. It was Pearl's apartment. Normally, she would be already heading to work around that time, would she have skipped that day after what happened? Or would she throw herself in even harder to try and think about anything else? After a moment considering it, he realized the second option sounded a lot more like Pearl. Maybe Hotguy would pay her a visit after solving a few more issues.

[tartrat]

Kapyy, Talia Family headcanon

Will any of this make sense? Idk. family portrait and explainations below. This is going to be a bit long. Also Talia's look here is just her appearance in the saloon with her hair from the chorus of ikywt. I keep mentioning this headcanon so i thought that i should show my headcanon for the family first. Its my birthday tomorrow and i'm sitting here doing this, at least its fun to share stuff like this.

For a bit of context, i was in Greece back in July, and one night when i was trying to sleep i had the thought "What if Kapyy and Talia Sway are twins who were separated at birth" and it just spiralled from there.

Their parents are the coaches from Giddy on Up and Blinding Lights extreme, who i will refer to as GOU and BLE from now on. Why did i choose these two for this headcanon? Country break up song and futuristic spinning (i actually forgot that Talia spins around quite a bit in IKYWT).

Kapyy was kidnapped after birth and taken to Cyberfunk. No one is entirely sure who they were but BLE has his suspicions that it was someone he used to know. I'm not going into the kidnapper fully yet, but she used to date BLE and then he found out that she wanted to fully control him so he got out of Cyberfunk and went to Wasterra. Then he met GOU and they fell in love and got married. Eventually GOU finds out she's pregnant with twins. After the birth Kapyy was kidnapped leaving Talia as the Kidnapper was caught in the act and fled. The Kidnapper brought Kapyy to Cyberfunk where she placed him in an orphanage where she could monitor him, to bring him up and use him to spite his father. Which inevitably backfired on her as Kapyy ended up in Wasterra where the rest of his family is.

They resemble their mother and father respectively however, Kapyy gets his hair and eye colour from GOU and the same for Talia from her dad. For this BLE is a natural blonde who dyes his hair black. I also see the goggles that BLE wears as glasses, Talia also needs glasses but she wears contact lenses most of the time.

Height wise, this is a family of giraffes lol. BLE is the tallest at 6"2, with GOU just Below him at 6' 1", and Talia and Kapyy being half an inch apart at 5' 11" and 5'11.5" respectively. Wow i really do think that they are Dipper and Mabel Pines lol.

You know what, Talia and Kapyy's relationship is sort of like Dipper and Mabel from Gravity falls in the sense that they ground each other. Though Talia does find it strange that she has a brother. Talia does get annoyed with how energetic Kapyy is and Kapyy can get annoyed with her seriousness but they find that they do balance each other out.

Kapyy finds it difficult to connect with his parents, mainly because of how he has only known them for a bit. He is mainly worried that he might do something wrong. That's why in the family portrait he is standing a bit away. This sort of comes from how he could never really connect with anyone, but eventually he does managed to connect with them.

However the two were overjoyed that their son had returned to them after he had been kidnapped, and welcomed him with open arms.

I'm not sure if any of this will make sense, i feel like i just blurted out a bunch of words.

A lot of this is formed from Talia. Considering that she is based on Taylor swift, who is 5' 11" and has a brother (Albeit a younger one and not a twin), it just started to make this headcanon make more sense to me.

There's more to this headcanon but i just wanted to focus on the family first. Honestly after i initially came up with it i just thought it would be cute. Though I do have a short plotline with this that i kinda want to write down. The "Visceral Reaction" post is part of that. There are also other things that i have relating to this headcanon that i want to explain better. It will be funny if they actually give these two families and i have to scrap this headcanon entirely.

Here’s an in progress pic that I thought was funny because Kapyy and BLE's clothes weren't blended yet. Agates be like:

Also Kapyy's kidnapper and BLE's ex is Nithe Long, but i'm not going to explain why i'm having her be the kidnapper in full right now.

[beevean]

a star ⭐ AND a query: are there any particular notes you have for Rain or What We've Lost and What We've Gained?

Ohhh!

Not much to say about Rain, it just came from a prompt and the idea that Hector would be "odd" enough to prefer rain over the sun. I'm not particularly proud of that one, to be honest, although I liked writing from Rosaly's POV and I took the chance to flesh her out a bit without straying far from what we know of her: she's disgustingly cute, she trusts Hector unconditionally and doesn't judge him for his weirdness, she's traditional in many aspects including having prejudices but willing to meet Hector halfway, and in short she embodies the better qualities of Christianity. I tried to incorporate other symbolisms, such as comparing Hector to a snake echoing his edgy moment in PtR, or Rosaly coming to appreciate the rain because it does kind of resemble his beloved in a way. And as I said in the notes, I just wanted to write a fully happy Hector for once lmao, let the man have one joy in the trauma conga line called his life :P

WWLAWWG is dearer to me, because I wrote a big part of it after suffering a loss - Julia's words about Isaac and her blaming herself for not loving him enough resonate too close to how I was feeling back then. I have all the feelings about her relationship with Isaac :) and i might have teared up a little when i wrote "i just want my big brother back!"...

It's worhty of note that it was born out of an idea that has little too do with the general theme of the fic - that Hector and Isaac can't have children due to their powers, something that would weigh on Hector when married to Rosaly as he'd see it as yet another consequence of his mistakes - and then spiralled into a much more wholesome headcanon that at last fixed all my grievances with the idea of Hector going to live with Julia. Maybe in the game Rosaly's makeshift orphanage doesn't exist... but nothing stops me from integrating it into the setting >:) I also go absolutely feral over the idea of Hector becoming Dracula, but this time in a positive way: by welcoming unwanted children and actually raising them with love, not to use them ;A;

Julia is a fascinating character for me to write, because she is a big big liar lmao. "Unlike her brother, whose thoughts and emotions were akin to a river in flood, and unlike Rosaly, with her clear, crystalline honesty, Julia was a placid lake, surface smooth and undisturbed." I could have phrased it better, but I liked the imagery here: Rosaly was gently honest and Isaac was brutally honest, but Julia hides everything behind her smile and slightly witty attitude, and Hector knows that something is lurking under the surface, and it's only a matter of time before it breaks the illusion. makes you wonder why she's like this...

I also tried to make Hector sound a little different here. This is post-CoD Hector, this is a Hector that has fully affirmed himself and his own agency. He's no longer the boy who would let himself be eaten alive to fill someone else's void :) it was very important to me that he took the decision to remove himself from a toxic situation, while still not looking like he was simply running away: I'm proud of myself for the idea of leaving the Devils with Julia, who in Kojima's art is shown taking care of them. There is something to be said that in theory, Julia would be an even better companion for Hector than Rosaly, because she fully understands Hector's powers and "curse", and being shunned because of it, and they can both be fully themselves around each other. This alone makes me imagine that the two would keep in touch through their lifetime, even from a distance.

(similarly I like the part where Hector muses that trying to assign blame on one person is eventually a futle endeavor, becase "it would always return to its starting place". You can't run away from grief, and what's the point in blaming dead people or yourself?)

And as I said in the notes, it's funny to me that it's the very first fic that used the Hector & Julia tag lol. But I still feel I wrote them as rather romantic, even though it wasn't my intention, perhaps for the moment of vulnerability they share together. I suppose you can read them as having the potential to fall in love, but kept apart by their trauma, which is the whole point of the story lmao.

and finally, this

“Then I’d better start packing as well,” she snorted, “for you seem hardly willing to part with your money.” “With all due respect, one hundred gold for a short sword may be on the excessive side–” “I’m simply teasing. Forgive me, but your pride is too easy to prickle.”

was a heartfelt jab at the game, specifically at my first playthrough where I didn't know how to stop being too poor for her shop :P

[moonferry]

FSIOY CHAPTER 4!!!

omg hey i'm literally frothing at the mouth. two chapter updates back to back? what's going on with me. anyway. this one was so fun to write. i love making kent a loser loverboy. this one is a bit short but ITS OKAY. also i highly recommend listening to stargazing by myles smith while u read bc that song has been stuck in my head all week and it may have inspired me.

word count: 1193

chapter summary: kent and jodi spend the last week of kent's "freedom" together. kent realizes he REALLY enjoys spending time with jodi and eventually decides to confess.

warnings: none!

ao3 link: here

other chapters: chapter masterlist

April 19XX, Midtown Zuzu City – Middle of the War | Two Days Until Deployment. 

The past few days had been great – the two spent entire evenings running around the city and doing tasks on Kent’s “bucket list” (he wasn’t sure he had a bucket list until they started this adventure, to be honest). It helped ease his mind, even if it was just a small amount. He was extremely grateful to Jodi and her willingness to help him. She was such a great friend and that was the problem. 

Spending time with Jodi and getting to know her - to really know her - made Kent realize something else: he was definitely feeling something for her. He also knew that his time was running out: he had to say something or he may never get the chance again. 

The two were currently sprawled out on a blanket on the only piece of grass in the entire city, looking up at the stars and pointing out what shapes they saw. Half the constellations Kent named were most definitely fake, but Jodi didn’t seem to notice the difference. 

Kent glanced over at her – she was just as beautiful as always, her hair neatly braided and draped over her shoulder. For some reason he couldn’t quite place, Kent found himself staring at her more than the sky and noticing the smallest of details: how the moonlight bounced off of her cheeks and made her blue eyes appear luminous, how the stray ends of her hair (the ones too small to be braided) curled in small wisps around her face, how she watched the sky with such an intensity - as if she thought that if she hoped hard enough, she might be able to join the stars - it all made his head spin. 

When he spent time with Jodi, it was as if the universe quieted and the outside world no longer existed. It was just him and her, alone in the peacefulness of this moment. But he knew it wouldn’t last. Nothing ever did. Kent tried his best to close his eyes and truly soak in every second. Even if nothing lasts forever, physically, he would carry a small part of it inside of him for the rest of his life. He just hoped “the rest of his life” didn’t mean a year or two tops.

Jodi pointed towards another constellation and mentioned how it looked like a sheep. She turned her head to see if Kent noticed it and was surprised to see him staring at her instead of the sky. It caused a light dusting of pink to spread across her cheeks. For once, she was thankful for the darkness of night and hoped that Kent couldn’t see the change in her complexion. 

“Why are you staring at me? You’re missing all the beautiful stars,” Jodi teased with a laugh, reaching over the playfully shove Kent’s face towards the sky. 

“Sorry,” Kent mumbled, a small smile forming on his lips as he glanced upward. This week had made him more impulsive than usual. He thought for a moment, biting his lower lip as he debated how to say his next words. Eventually, he just shrugged his shoulders slightly and murmured beneath his breath, “You’re beautiful, too.” 

“Did you say something?” Jodi asked, glancing over as her face contorted itself into an expression of confusion. She raised an eyebrow before shaking her head. Kent had yet to respond, so maybe it was just the wind. It was an unusually windy night, so it's possible. 

Kent took a deep breath before nodding. “I said ‘you’re beautiful’,” He replied sheepishly, feeling the familiar heat return to his cheeks. It always seemed to show up eventually, especially when he was around Jodi. He gave an awkward chuckle before adding, “You know, like the stars…” 

“That’s sweet,” Jodi replied with a small smile. For some reason, Kent’s comment made her blush deeper and she had to turn away from him out of embarrassment. She couldn’t place why she was getting so flustered or why she cared what he thought in the first place. Besides, they’ve been friends for months and nothing seemed off, so why was this moment different? Maybe it was the tenderness of it or the sincerity in Kent’s voice or the soft expression on his face. Maybe Jodi wasn’t used to being friends with someone like Kent. She wasn’t sure. 

Kent noticed Jodi had turned away and let out a small sigh of disappointment. He glanced back at the sky and silently scolded himself for making things awkward. Stupid, he thought to himself, that was stupid. Despite this, though, Kent couldn’t seem to quiet his mind - which was currently screaming “Jodi” over and over, as if she was all he could think about. 

“Hey, Jodi?” Kent asked, once again turning to face the girl next to him. 

“Mhm?” She replied, glancing over at Kent. She had a soft smile on her face and seemed to have forgotten the awkward encounter already. That was good, except Kent was about to make it awkward once again. 

Kent gulped. Was he seriously about to tell her this? He thought about the state of his life right now - the pressure of deployment getting closer to tightening around his neck. He decided, like many things in his life now, he didn’t seem to have a choice. Besides, if he didn’t do this, a part of him would always be wondering what would’ve happened. He didn’t want to die with a bunch of “what ifs,” that’s what this week was about, anyway. He sighed to himself before nodding. It was time. Before he could talk himself out of it, Kent took a deep breath and began speaking, “Jodi, I like being around you.” 

“I like being around you too, Kent. You’re the closest friend I have,” Jodi replied, tilting her head in confusion. 

“No, you don’t understand,” Kent started, fidgeting with his hands as he readied himself for what he was planning to say next, “I like being around you. I like you.. LIke really like you. You’re so amazing and funny and I love everything you do when you think no one’s watching or that no one notices. Like how you run your hands across the fabric of your skirt when you’re nervous or how you hide your mouth behind your hand when you laugh. Or how you’re so effortlessly beautiful it makes it hard to focus when I’m around you.” 

“What are you saying?” Jodi asked, pushing herself into a sitting position. She looked at Kent skeptically, a small amount of concern seeping into her features. 

Kent’s eyes darted across her face and he felt his breath hitch in his throat. There she goes again - causing his head to spin with a simple glance. His heart felt like it was doing jumping jacks in his chest. He placed a hand on his chest, hoping that Jodi couldn’t hear the roar of his pulse. He pushed himself into a sitting position and scooted slightly closer to Jodi, their faces only a few inches away from each other. 

“I think I’m in love with you.”

[crowrave]

I Hate You (Because All I See Is Myself)

Crown‘s insanity gives way for his mind to truly dwell in his resentments of existence. He also gets into a verbal fight with the magic of the Dark Sea that controls his mind.

⚠️ self-depreciation, slight description of blood and injury, manipulation attempt, and feelings of isolation. (Also my writing is still kinda shitty)⚠️

Story is under the cut, as always!

It’s the middle of the night in the Nimbus Sea. The dull, unfeeling moon remains stagnant in the sky, gleaming down at the waters below it. The chilling cold of the ocean breeze, paired with the beginnings of a hellish war brings forth a particularly sour mood for a certain Vice Captain.

Cain Crown sits at his desk, glaring at a mirror on the wall in front of him. He stares it down with burning hatred in his eyes— scorning its very presence with as much contempt he can muster.

The reflection does not react. The only thing interesting about it would simply be his own reflection staring back. Crown does not seem to agree with this observation.

The Navy guard continues to grip onto the wooden table; leaning as far forward as he can while looking at the mirror the entire time. He remains silent for a few minutes longer.

Eventually, he finally slumps down in his seat, grumbling to himself and keeping an eye on the frame of the glass. He seems rather discontent with the mirror’s continued existence.

He glowers at the reflective surface, seething with rage at his own appearance in the mirror. The face looking back at him seems… off. As if it’s using the man’s face to express a very smug expression.

“Stop looking at me like that. How about you fuck off, and just leave me alone?”

The one before him simply smiles— although, Crown himself retains a scowl. He can feel his mouth speaking, and hears a gentle, but mocking voice come from his throat.

“What look am I giving you? Perhaps you’ve simply gone mad again. You’re quite easy to rile up, you know.”

The Captain continues to express his displeasure of seemingly being used as a vessel for another.

“If I could, I’d stick a foot up your ass. Why insist on sticking around? I know you’ve got far better things to do than stay here and taunt me.”

The man in the mirror hums. They tilt their head with a smile that feels far too fake to be genuine.

“Why not? It’s fun. You can’t get rid of me. I’m you. No amount of warding potions or denial will change that.”

“Come back to the Dark Sea. It’s much more interesting there when you’re around. Perhaps you might even rid yourself of me, yet.”

Crown returns the reflection’s smile with a scathing glare. He narrows his eyes, and slams a fist down onto the wooden surface.

“Don’t play games with me, you asshole. You’re just gonna try to take over again, aren’t you? You’ve done plenty of that even out of that cursed place. There’s not need for returning when you made it clear you don’t even require being there to take control of my life.”

The looking glass silently gives a scrutinizing gaze. The smile on its face becomes strained, and its hands begin to clench in what appears to be frustration.

“Your opinion on the matter means nothing to me. Why defy my suggestions if you already know there’s no point in fighting back? Give me the reigns. Your time has come to an end, anyways.”

“Your friends don’t care for you. I can make them regret it. They’ll be worshiping you like the god you are. All I need is your support. Give in.”

The last bits of the vice captain’s sanity scream at him to get the fuck away. To flee, and break that god-damned mirror and kill other him that seems oh so entertained by his misery.

He doesn’t dare to show weakness. Not when he’s face-to-face with such a despicable foe. He snarls at the reflection, and draws his fist back.

…the resounding sound of glass shattering likely woke up his crew. Blood drops from his knuckles and down to his arm, leaving droplets of blood on the desk. Glass lodges itself into his hand, and the searing pain from it just makes him angrier.

He doesn’t care. They’ll just think he’s fucking around again, and go back to sleep.

And that’s the worst part. They don’t know just how much he’s struggling. How the ‘leader’ they look up to is hardly even alive at all. How no matter how hard he tries. No matter now many opponents he’s fought, no matter the amount of people he’s killed for the sake of their safety.

None of it will ever amount to the losing battle he’s fighting. Himself. Because they were right. They are him, in a sick, and twisted way. And that will never change.

He may be Cain Crown, fierce Vice Captain of the Grand Navy; near-invincible and immortal demigod that has slain thousands for his own personal gain—!

But he shall forever be fated to become nothing but Cain Crown, an amnesiac dumbass that lost his mind to his own curiosity. The Dark Sea will consume him, and he will become nothing but another story to tell of a lost soul who was swept away into history.

The man feels the sanity of his mind receding once more. He grips his head, and sighs.

The small moment of clarity is hidden away. No one takes a second glance at them in the morning when he gives the crewmates a friendly wave with a bandaged hand.

[folkloristico]

May I return the favor? 🤭 4, 6, 7, 22, 24, and 77 for the writing asks!

Thank you for the ask!

Let’s see…

4. How do you choose which fics to write?

I have a document—sorted by fandoms—where I keep track of all the ideas I come up with so I don’t ever forget them. From there, it’s just a matter of where inspiration leads me; I’ve realised I’m more inclined to write on the spur of the moment than to make plans and stick to them. It’s a bit problematic because I have too many WIPs, so it can take me a long time to finish one, but hey, at least it gets finished… eventually.

6. What’s the last line you wrote?

Under a certain number, all ages kind of blurred together in her mind, and Griffin had not yet stopped to think of the princess as a child; the way Faragonda and the others talked about her did not help to mitigate this image.

7. Post a snippet from a WIP.

Their surroundings shimmered like the faint memory of a dream, and they were in the library once more. Seen like this, in such stark contrast to the crumbling ruins of its truest version, the view left Bloom transfixed; but there was little past the illusion. The borders to the far corners were blurry, and no sound could be detected. The air smelled like nothing at all. Daphne might not be dead after all—but what else was this, if not even worse a fate? “Have you really been staying here alone?” Bloom forced herself to look Daphne in the eyes. “All of this time?” Daphne gave a faint shake of her head. “Not quite. I’m barely aware of what’s happening. I’m… too weak to remain present. I feel the strongest when you’re close by.” “Because of the Dragon Flame?” “Our family’s power, yes.” Bloom faltered, averted her eyes. “Forgive me,” Daphne said swiftly. “I know it must be strange for you.” “No—” Bloom trailed off. A thought occurred to her, and she surveyed the room once more as if it had suddenly changed. “You can’t hear my mind in here—can you?” Daphne gave a laugh. It was a gentle sound, the most alive thing there was about her. “It doesn’t work like that. We share a link, is all. And—I’m a pretty good judge of character, if I may say so myself.” 

Daphne angst + library mentioned <3

And I must say, I’m really enjoying writing Bloom now! 

22. Do you title your fics before, during, or after the writing process? How do you come up with titles?

Honestly, I do anything my brain tells me to do. Sometimes I start writing a fic and the title comes to me shortly thereafter; some other time I even build an idea around a title. But other times I’ve changed the name of an already posted story on a whim, because I really can’t make up my mind. If I’m really struggling with the title, I skim through a bunch of lyrics of my favourite songs until something comes up. I think at least ten of my WIPs are named after a Hozier or Florence song.

24. How do you choose whose POV to write in?

The most important thing to me when choosing a POV is asking myself: What am I trying to achieve with this chapter, and which POV would benefit the most?

For instance, I have this canon-divergent WIP from season 2 that focuses on Diaspro and Bloom while they’re being held prisoner by Darkar. Something happens in the first chapter that only Bloom can be a witness of—the Dragon Flame being the reason why. Long story short, she’s ‘trapped’ in her own head—it’s Daphne that helps her break free—so I’m using Diaspro to show what’s happening during the time Bloom isn’t awake. After that, the story becomes more Diaspro-focused, and there would be no reason to switch to Bloom’s POV once more. In another WIP of mine, not Winx related, a character is keeping a secret from the others, and I’ve decided to switch to her only when that secret is revealed. I try to at best have a vague outline before jumping on the writing phase of a longfic, and I quite enjoy the phase where I’m figuring out the best way to mess with the POVs.

If we’re discussing first person vs third person, in fanfiction I will always favour third person over first. I might consider writing in first person if it’s the same POV the book is written in, but generally speaking, I find first-person very off-putting in fanfiction because the characters have a pre-established voice, and it’s quite hard to grasp. However, I disagree with the general sentiment that first person is bad even outside of fanfiction; most of my favourite books ever are written in first person.

77. Why do you enjoy writing fanfiction?

Because once I get an idea stuck in my mind, I can’t get rid of it unless I write it down. It’s like, I don’t know, setting the silly guys in your head free. I love writing, and fanfiction allows you to do so without the stress of striving for perfection or focusing too much on what other people will think. 

[staringdownabarrel]

I have some mixed opinions on Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow.

I think it was kinda cool seeing the idea that all the previous time travel stories seen in Star Trek to date have shifted the timeline in some places. That's been a fan theory that I've seen floating around online for years at this point, so having that canonised was really cool.

I guess the counterargument to this would be to say that they need to stick as close to the original version of canon as possible, where Khan's reign of terror was in the 1990s, not the 2020s. The thing is that the Trek writers have been slowly writing themselves into a corner where they'd have to come up with this kind of solution eventually anyway.

This isn't just a recent thing, either. Star Trek writers have been writing themselves into this corner ever since Voyager's Future's End two parter at the very latest, where there's no evidence of the Eugenics Wars ever having happened even though it should have been a recent thing. I'd argue it started even sooner than that though, because the version of 1980s Earth we saw in The Voyage Home should have been well on its way to that kind of conflict.

So the idea that repeated time travel will warp the timeline made sense as a fan theory, and it makes sense that they'd properly canonise the idea.

I also liked having Khan Noonien Singh in this episode. When Strange New Worlds first started, I thought they were probably going to go down a road where La'an's heritage was there, but largely ignored in favour of her other edgy background as a former prisoner of the Gorn. It's good that this episode has started to get into it a bit more.

I feel like this episode also has a really traditional take on the Romulans. In The Next Generation, there were a few episodes like The Mind's Eye and the Redemption and Unification two-parters where the Romulans were trying to stow discord in the Federation and Klingon Empire as a way of securing a stronger position for themselves. This is an idea that they returned to in DS9's In the Pale Moonlight, where Jadzia and Ben Sisko were discussing the cost-benefit analysis of joining the Dominion War from the Romulan's perspective. It's also an idea that came back during Enterprise's fourth season.

So having this Romulan plot where the 23rd century Romulans were going back in time to disrupt the formation of the Federation made a lot of sense from this kind of perspective. The Romulan way of taking power isn't a straight war like the Klingons or Cardassians might do; they also focus a lot on the espionage aspects to secure a stronger position before the war. They like knowing their early game in any given war is going to be a strong one.

The one thing I really didn't like about this episode was having Kirk in it. This was nostalgia baiting just for the sake of it. At least in Picard, it made sense to bring back legacy characters because it's literally the legacy character show. Yes, there are very real criticisms to be made about how Picard treated these legacy characters, but it made sense for them to be there in the first place.

It doesn't really gel as well in Strange New Worlds. Even though Kirk will go on to be the captain of the Enterprise, he's still just another officer on some other ship at this point in the timeline. He hasn't even really had an episode of his own in the show yet to really establish how this set of writers want to portray him; we've only ever had this writing team's takes on alt!Kirk here in Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow and last season's A Quality of Mercy.

So when Strange New Worlds presents us with a maverick alt!Kirk, it doesn't really mean anything. They haven't done enough with regular main!Kirk to demonstrate whether they're working with Kirk the maverick under regular circumstances or if they're working with the more traditional, by-the-books version the original series presents.

I feel like Kirk's role in this episode would have been better served by Pike. The version of Pike Strange New Worlds is working with has been established enough that the difference between main!Pike and this episode's alt!Pike would have been quite noticeable.

I think an argument could even be made for having Chapel or Ortega in Kirk's position, because while these two characters are part of the main cast, they've still been underutilised so far. It'd be a good opportunity to expand on their characters more because La'an's response to them could still be, "No wait, my version of you isn't like this. They'd do x, not y."

Either way, it'd make more sense to have either of these characters in this episode as La'an's sidekick rather than Kirk. They're established characters for the show, and moments like where the Romulan agent shoots Kirk would have had more of an emotional impact if it'd been Pike, Chapel, or Ortegas instead.

This in general was a really grating aspect of this episode for me, and I think it would have been way better if Kirk wasn't in this show at all. I kinda get the impression that they want to do more with Kirk as the show goes on, but so far they've picked the worst possible ways to do that. It's a shame, because a lot of what else happens in this episode has been very on point in terms of how it fits into the broader canon.

[blackthorn-legion-irl]

sendoff.mp4

[A mysterious video is uploaded on Blackthorn's account. No metadata exists to determine who, how, or why it was posted…]

A calm moonlight shines through the window. It shines on Den, Saffron, Fuchsia, and Cerulean, sleeping like a pile of kittens, barely distinguishable as separate beings.

A few minutes pass. Then a shadow dims the moonlight for a moment, and Den awakens. She gets up, careful not to wake the others, trying to give them just a little extra sleep. Eventually - gently, subconsciously - she starts to sing.

A second set of voices joins her for a duet - Saffron, Fuchsia, and Cerulean, the Pixies singing in harmony, simultaneously one voice yet three.

As they sing, it seems that the world has stopped around them. Not in the sense of a dark future, but in the sense of a moment of peace forever fixed in time.

A subtle glow surrounds each of the Pixies as the song continues, growing stronger, in the colour of their name. In the same time, Den seems to radiate a shadow - one of calm, as the empty night sky waiting to be filled with stars.

Before, as the song comes to its end, 'Arigato to...~' The glow blinds the camera with white for a moment, before it fades. The moon is shaded by clouds; the only light now comes from three floating wisps - one gold, one pink, one blue - and Den's red eyes shining in the darkness.

The wisps start to circle her. Faster, faster, spiralling inwards, until - a glow forms around her head. She closes her eyes, the glow fades into shadows.

The moonlight returns.

Revealing Den---revealing Blackthorn. Clearly tired, clearly damaged - clearly whole, as much as she can be. She stumbles blearily over to the bed, collapsing onto it. The only sound, her steady heartbeat.

And a trio of familiar voices singing her to sleep.

//ooc under the cut

//picrew source

and that's the end of this... pseudo-arc? i'm not sure what to call it still, but. the intro post will be updated at... some point. not sure when. but it needs a pretty big go-over anyway, so.

so what happens now? technically, blackthorn refers to the four of them, whereas den refers to den herself. in their whole state though, the two are pretty much interchangeable - as such blackthorn is simultaneously one person and four. self-reference-wise - she'll mostly use i/me, though depending on the context may switch to we/us. likewise, referring to saffron/fuchsia/cerulean will use he/she/they respectively. any pronouns are okay for any of them, though, as ever - she'll particularly be aware of plural they as an option depending on context.

while i'm noting this as it's what i use currently and thus what blackthorn will eventually stick to - she's got to work out how to communicate with the pixies first..... so do i, for that matter. it'll be easier for her though. as a bonus, the pixies also get a headspace (which i don't think i have) so i can keep making picrews of them. the irl equivalents just roll around my brain like when you have pokemon-amie on the bottom screen and get on the bike. i mean what :v

i appreciate everyone who's interacted in any way - in terms of me working out stuff irl i consider it a success also. thank you. i want to special thanks to spritemod and indigomod - while i know it wasn't intended, the timing of the runaway arc and such (even though i blocked a lot of it) really helped me with some particular cases in a safe environment, which otherwise i might not have gotten for a while. so that's a bonus.

probably when i update the intro post i'll also make a list of links to all the big major writing of this semi-arc. that might take a bit but i hope to have it done by the end of the weekend.

as for now? blackthorn's just doing her thing. helping people out, posting memes and stupid jokes... just with a little more understanding of what's going on behind the mask. (and a clearly totally valid excuse of 'no i don't have a soft side. that's just fuchsia')

[parryperi]

Could be remnants of my Persona 3 brain and how I viewed the two protagonists there but I like to view the masc and fem builders as twins too.

Whether or not I still go with the same headcanon I have with p3 where "whichever protag you picked is the one that survived" is up in the air ahaaa.

I think for Builders it can either be that or a case of "whichever protag you did not pick is still in Cantlin".

The "the other twin is dead" idea sort of stemmed from the fact that Lulu's parents were killed when she was taken away. Sure, might not be a case for all prisoners of the Children of Hargon but yknow!

Thinking about this because I was in the midst of writing a drabble and it just kinda cemented itself into fem!builder's backstory in that drabble. Idk when I'll finish that thing but like, I guess I kinda like the way I put it from a character standpoint?

So, from the way I wrote it for the fem!builder, it goes like this, just to summarize:

• Masc (abbreviated to MB) builder and fem builder (abbreviated to FB) both grow up in Cantlin of course.

• MB is regarded as a total ray of sunshine and loved by the community in Cantlin. The go-to guy if you're having trouble with fixing your house or making a new shed. FB envies him a bit and looks up to him.

• FB's builderpedia is full of drawings from the two, with some of the blueprints FB has being inspired by her brother's machinations or some have corrections for each other written down.

• Basically, FB views her brother's work as being perfect and way better than hers.

• Children of Hargon invade and some circumstance makes them not care for elder villagers, so the twins' parents are no more.

• Both twins know neither of them can adhere to the "no creation" principle. Some sort of circumstance makes it come to where only one twin can be taken alive while the other is implied to face death.

• MB, wanting his sister to survive, does something to draw the ire of the invading monsters so they'll take his sister alive and leave her fairly unharmed.

• Before being separated, MB tells FB to keep making things to make people smile like he does. Furthermore, tells her that when they meet again, he can't wait to meet all the people whose lives shes improved.

• Afterward, FB takes on MB's sunny persona as a way to not only carry on his legacy, but as an attempt to be as successful as him.

• Despite how FB really feels at times and her own opinion of viewing her work as amateurish, she keeps up that persona and confidence throughout the story, especially since it seems to please people.

• Idk if you can tell yet but becoming a people pleaser is what hinders her in Moonbrooke. Thusly, knowing her work was used to harm people she loves tends to make her feel physically ill.

• At some point, FB feels like MB was meant to be the builder Hargon brought to the Isle of Awakening, but didn't anticipate MB sacrificing himself for his sister. Let alone, she feels like a fraud when called a hero as she only views herself just being hungry for praise and adventure.

• It leads to some inner turmoil, like her thinking her friends would have liked MB better than her, and that MB would have avoided everything that happened at Moonbrooke, regarding him as a better fighter too. With how she's asked if she'll ever go back to Cantlin, her anxious mind warps this into believing her friends want her to go away, but later resolves this.

• Eventually finds her own strength in herself, feeling her sunnier side start to come more naturally and feel more comfortable in her new life. While she would like to visit her hometown, she's fearful she may not he able to return to the Isle of Awakening if she does. Knowing she has no family left in the other world, she considers some of the islanders and her friends as newfound family.

Its very much a wip but like, its been on my mind. Let alone that MB and FB's roles can easily be swapped if I want to write about MB another time.

[selfspinninglies]

elaborating on my bad end theater blakeworth au more because its driving me insane a little bit . spoilers for both bad end theater [kinda?? barely] and vtsom . also long [like seriously I was not expecting 2 write this much about it] ft. my writing of questionable quality

So victor n vincent's incidents happen on the same day here for plot convenience , I haven't really figured it out yet so . shrugs . anyway victor gets taken somewhere 2 get his prosthetics n vincent goes 2 the basement n gets turned into a cyborg like usual but the thing is vincent is gone for a whileee . Like half a year ish . n victor has no idea where the hell he is so after staying at the mansion n waiting 4 vincent 2 come back 4 a while he goes out to look for him because he doesn't believe [or doesn't want 2 believe] that vincent is dead [he's right not 2] . so he doesn't come back for a bit . in that time vincent comes back to the mansion n has a huge what the fuck moment because he has no idea how long he was gone since there wasn't a calendar or anything in the basement obviously so he was expecting victor 2 be there so now its his turn to freak out . but he doesn't wait at all n immediately leaves to try n find him since he assumed something happened . oh also neither of them know about eachother's incidents .

Anyway both of them r panicking n looking 4 eachother all the time with no luck @ all . vincent is still plotting his revenge against myers but he knows he needs some1 2 help him [cough cough victor] 2 fully carry out his plans . So that's kinda put on pause temporarily . anyway theater time :]

I haven't fully figured out why vincent makes the theater yet because it doesn't fully make sense but it's like . partly because its something 2 do so he doesn't fucking lose it [escapism] partly because he's a cyborg n needs human flesh 2 survive n this would lure people in [also possibly victor might come here but that's a maybe 2 him] n partly because he was probably a theater kid you can't convince me otherwise . Anyway the stories play out a little differently 2 be metaphors 4 what happened @ myers but the characters n stuff still have the same roles n every story still has a bad ending . He doesn't wanna get recognized because his involvement in the g4 cyborg incident is all he would hear about n he did this to escape not be reminded of all that shit . So he goes by Tragedy n wears a mask to conceal his face [hey wow just like tragedy in bad end theater . see what I did there]

Eventually victor goes to the theater n as soon as vincent starts speaking he recognizes his voice but isn't sure + this guy doesn't really act like vincent [stage personality] so he'll wait n see . Also I'm aware that vincent can't lie to victor 4 shit but the mask also conveniently covers any sort of telling facial expression . Anyway at first vincent wants 2 just go out n say that it's him n all that but also he's afraid how victor will react to what happened 2 him n the things hes done 2 sustain himself if he finds out . Also he's surprised at seeing that victor has robotic arms/eyes now since he still doesn't know what happened 2 him in the time gap . He wants 2 question him soooo bad but he'll wait . Mostly because if he questions victor that means he'll be questioned in return n that is the absolute last thing he wants .

Everything would play out as it does in bad end theater [going through all the different storylines n fighting Tradgey] except when the mask breaks some of vincent's cyborg parts[??] are visible since as seen in chapter 4 it looks like his body deteriorates pretty easily under stress n it's painfully obvious what he is now . But he's still him , so all of that is basically ignored when victor realizes that he was right and this is vincent and holy fuck he is alive n right here in front of me ‼️ so uh . reunion yayyyy . Questions come later which isn't fun for either of them but it doesn't matter because oh my god they're together again n alive . anyway reunion stuff .

They hug . a lot . for wayyy too long . but when it's been over a year since you've seen the best person in your entire life you're gonna b a little clingy . Not much is different about their relationship after all of this they just do not want 2 leave eachother alone 4 a while because . well . widely gestures to The Everything . After that they just sit in the empty seats [absolutely nobody else is there] n talk . it's pretty casual 4 now , neither of them r in the mood 4 anything else . Vincent explains that he's closing the theater down after this . he doesn't want it anymore n people don't come here anyway so it would b a waste . He wants everything 2 go back 2 how it was before . victor suggests that they go home n vincent says they should . They probably kiss r whatever @ some point as a treat its been 2 long . Also sometime later they have a conversation about being stuck in the past n everything since victor obviously noticed the glaringly obvious parallels between their experiences n the characters' . vincent explains that he had this whole revenge thing planned out but maybe this is okay [4 now @ least] . Holy fuck pixle writes a happy ending it's a miracle [it's more bittersweet but . shhhshush]

Hi if you somehow read all of this congrats . here's some extra little details

-the parallels between vincent n tragedy r the main inspiration 4 this since they're both hyperfocused on the past n their partner is more focused on moving on/the future it makes me ill

-the theater isn't around for long, maybe like a month or two ?? A little more ??? This timeline is really fucked. shrugs

-also nobody really comes there, only a few once in a while n half the time vince has 2 kill them anyway because yk . the whole eating flesh thing . so he doesn't have many regulars . not that he really cares about this much anyways . also he wonders what victor would think of it allll the time .

-the cats r fine b4 any1 asks victor took them with him n before then they probably have automatic feeders n water stuff [also vincent is extremely happy 2 see them again]

-vincent is extra bitter towards myers because of the whole separation thing

-night terrors after they get back . Soooo many 4 both of them it's not fun

-draco still exists because vincent already kind of started his plans with winston but he didn't have any memories 2 use n didn't want 2 use winston's since he doesn't really know what's in there so eventually he convinces victor 2 lend some because its kind of awkward 2 have a lifeless cyborg/clone just lying around + I just wanted him 2 be here because he's 1 of my favorites . sue me [don't . I do not have money]

-The plot of vtsom doesn't happen after this because vincent decides that it isn't worth it 2 go after myers n he's tired of all this shit n he has victor again so that's all that matters + victor convinces him not 2 during their conversation when leaving the theater . that doesn't mean he won't murder a few of the core members though teehee . I cannot write anything w/o murder sorry its a condition <3

-when albert calls vincent in one of the endings in twdak [don't remember the number but yk the 1 .] he doesn't answer because he's not there but eventually he calls back after a bit because why not n they talk . not entirely important just something i thought about . also they still hate eachother obviously nothing has changed about that .

-not a detail but I do plan 2 make a playlist 4 this eventually , if/when I do I'll just link it here or post it separately idk . [update I did that check reblogs if you want it] also I do have a tragedy vince somewhere that i need 2 post . victor looks basically the same I think idk what I would change

-also I'm calling this cyborg theater for brevity not sure if I'll keep that name or not but we'll see