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writers-potion · 22 days

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Storyediting Questions to Ask

As You Read the First Draft:

Are there place that surprised you as you read your first draft? - Why do you suppose that is? - Is there material there you'd like to expand?

What are the character really doing in this story? - Might they have issues you haven't explored fully yet?

Look to the places that drag. - These might be scenes where you have avoided dealing with something deeper. - What are the characters really thinking in these places? - What are their passions, frustrations, and desires?

Imagine alternative plotlines. - How might your plot be different if ti headed off on another tangent from various points in the story? - You don't have to follow them, but they might suggest other streams that can flow into the main plot.

Think About Structure:

Does you story play out naturally in three acts?

Is there an immediate disturbance to the Lead's world?

Does the first doorway of no return occur before the one-fifth mark?

Are the stakes being raised sufficiently?

Does the second doorway of no return put the Lead on the path to the climax?

Does the rhythm of the sotyr match your intent? If this is an action novel, does the plot move relentlessly forward? If this is a character-driven novel, do the scenes delve deeply enough?

Are there strongly motivated characters?

Have coincidence been established?

Is something happeing immediately at the beginning? Did you establish a person in a setting with a problem, onfronted with change or threat?

Is the timeline logical?

Is the story too predictable in terms of sequence? Should it be rearranged?

About Your Lead Character:

Is the character memorable? Compelling? Enough to carry a reader all the way through the plot?

A lead character has to jump off the page. Does yours?

Does this character avoid cliches? Is he capable of surprising us?

What's unique about the character?

Is the character's objective strong enough?

How does the character grow over the course of the story?

How does the character demonstrate inner strength?

About Your Opposition:

Is your oppositing character interesting?

Is he fully realized, not just a cardboard cutout?

Is he justified (at least in his own mind) in his actions?

Is he believable?

Is he strong as or stronger than the Lead?

About Your Story's Adhesive Nature:

Is the conflcit between the Lead and opposition crucial for both?

Why can't they just walk away? What holds them together?

About Your Scene:

Are the big scenes big enough? Surprising enough? Can you make them more original, unanticipated, and draw them out for all they are worth?

Is there enough conflict in the scenes?

What is the least memorable scene? Cut it!

What else can be cut in order to move the story relentlessly forward?

Does the climactic scene come too fast (through a writer fatigue)? Can you make it more, write it for all it's worth?

Does we need a new minor subplot to build up a saggin midsection?

About Your Minor Characters:

What is their purpose in the plot?

Are they unique and colorful?

Polishing Questions:

Are you hooking the reader from the beginning?

Are suspenseful scenes drawn out for the ultimate tension?

Can any information be delayed? This creates tension in the reader, always a good thing.

Are there enough surprises?

Are character-reaction scenes deep and interesting?

Read chapter ending for read-on prompts

Are there places you can replace describing how a character feels with actions?

Do I use visual, sensory-laden words?

For a Dialogue Read-Through:

Dialogue is almost always strengthened by cutting words within the lines.

In dialogue, be fair to both sides. Don't give one character all the good lines.

Greate dialogue surprises the reader and creates tension. View it like a game, where the players are trying to outfox each other.

Can you get more conflict into dialogue, even emong allies?

If you like my blog, buy me a coffee☕ and find me on instagram! 📸

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imaginebeautifulworlds · 3 months

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Loved By Seven | Chapter 4

Genre: Hybrid!AU, Poly!AU, Mate!AU, romance, fluff

Pairing: OT7 x Reader

Characters: Human!Reader, Peacock!Seokjin, Serpent!Yoongi, Hawk!Hoseok, White Tiger!Namjoon, Merman!Jimin, Leopard!Taehyung, Wolf!Jungkook

Summary: Hiking was just an activity to get you out of the apartment, the last thing you imagined was ending in a whole different world by touching a jewel. That not being enough you end up meeting seven hybrids, and they all claim you shared the Connection with each of them making you their partner for life.

Notes: Hi! After I posted the third chapter I noticed I have more than 200 followers!!! I truly can't believe it, thank you so much!!! And I decided to write this chapter as fast as I could for a 100 followers celebration, which means the fifth chapter will be a 200 followers celebration along with a one shot from my masterlist. I'm so grateful for the people who keep reading this series and for the new ones who are giving me the opportunity to give them something to read. Likes, reblogs, comments are always appreciated. English is not my first language so pardon me if anything is misspelled or grammatically incorrect. Also the main idea came from a webtoon but I can’t remember it’s name. Enjoy!

Closing the door behind him a very happy leopard stops in front of the elevator to call, once inside he marks the parking lot. Which car should I drive today? Well I'm already late, I should take the smaller one he walks and picks up one of the two pair of keys dangling from his parking space I can't wait to take Beautiful out, just the two of us a boxy smile breaks through with this thought and gets in the car After this shoot I'm gonna pretend to be sick and get back to her quickly.

Thanking to the people who picked up the place for the photoshoot, since it was near the building he lives in, he exists the car and jogs a little bit to meet with his manager, a dog hybrid, waiting for him at the entrance, "Tae, I know you're a really big name in this industry, and thanks to me may I add" Jaehyun says with a silly smile and walking where there was already a lot of people waiting for Taehyung "but you can't be this late to a shoot man" this time is a frown what accompanies his words. "I know hyung, I'm sorry, you know I don't like to waste people's time but something happened yesterday and my phone died so the alarm didn't ring and I had to make breakfast but didn't have groceries so everything was a bit chaotic".

Once they're in front of the crew, Taehyung says out loud "I'm sorry everybody, I didn't mean to be this late" "It's okay, I mean you're THE Kim Taehyung you can be as late as you want" says a young leopard hybrid coming way to closer for his liking, like she almost wanted to touch him, so he takes a step back "I'm sorry Director, it won't happen again" he says bowing at her, which makes the girl blush "Um, Tae, she's no…" Jaehyun stars but gets interrupted "She's not the director Taehyung, it's me, she works with the make-up department" a slighter older fox hybrid walks towards Jaehyun and him "Oh, I'm sorry for being late Sir" he bows again, but this time at the right person "I know you're a big name but it can't happen again while we do this campaign" "It won't I swear" Taehyung says with his anima ears twitching nervously and his human ears red from embarrassment, at this the Director chuckles "It's okay, go get changed and then go to make-up while we set up things to start the shoot" he points at a girl who raises her hand She must be from the costume's department thus Taehyung walks behind her until they get to the dressing room.

"Hi Mr. Kim, I'm Danny and I'll be helping you during this campaign with what you'll be wearing" "Thank you Danny, and you can call me Taehyung, Mr. Kim sounds way to formal for my liking" he smiles gently at her Wow he is even more handsome in person and the rumor of him being a sweetheart are true, thank you universe for already having a partner otherwise I would probably be acting like the girl from make-up "Sure thing Taehyung" she says with red cheeks "These are the clothes you're gonna be wearing for this particular shoot" Danny shows him the main show of the shoot, a pair of underwear, with a pair of jeans and a jacket, both in denim "Okay" the leopard goes behind a curtain to change himself "If you need anything, I'm here" Danny says in a more professional tone "I actually have a question" he says while taking off his shirt "Sure, is anything not your size?" "No, it's not about the clothes or the shoot" "Oh" she says more relaxed "Sure" You're human right? I mean I didn't smell anything particular from you, except a faint smell of giraffe" he rushes his explanation in fear of offending her while almost falling from taking off his pants, she chuckles at this "Yes, I'm human and the scent you're smelling is my partner, it's faint because he's away on business, may I ask why are you asking this?" "It's just that I found my partner and she's also human and I wanted to know how can I court without scaring her, both my parents are hybrids so I don't know if I should do something different" a fondly smile forms on his lips by the mere thought of you "Well" she laughs a little "Andy was very forward, we crossed paths at a coffee shop and as I was exiting he screamed Wait! I think you're my partner to the entire shop and I genuinely thought that wasn't directed to me so I just walked out but he followed me and tapped my shoulder and told me the thing he just screamed was aimed at me, so we sat and started talking. I think everyone in this world knows they're destined to someone therefore you shouldn't be afraid of scaring" she finishes at the same time he pushes the curtain already changed That's the thing, I don't think she knows about the Connection which is so weird but he doesn't let his thoughts reflect on his face, instead he smiles at Danny "Thank you, you were very helpful" "Okay, let me see you" she turns on her job face "Please turn around" she hums looking for something that may stand out in the wrong way "I think you look great, the jacket is not too big, the boxers are up enough to see the brand but your abs can also be seen, and the jeans make your thighs look great, and this denim makes you ears stand out in very nice way. You're ready to go to make-up Taehyung" she smiles at him "Thank you Danny" he waves at her, exiting the dressing room.

"Hi handsome" someone says as soon as he exits, scaring him a little. Turning to look at the person who startled him, he finds the same leopard girl he thought was the director "Hey Taehyung, I was just coming to get you to take you to make-up" Jaehyun approaches but stops when spotting the girl "What are you doing here?" he asks "I'm here to pick him up" "The director told you to wait by your room, thus I'm asking again, what are you doing here?" "I'm just trying to show initiative, that's all" she answers with a fake sweet smile "Let's just go, yeah? We're already behind schedule because of me I don't want to keep delaying everything" Taehyung intervenes. "Yeah, you're right Tae…Lady, please take us to the make-up room" Taehyung puts himself between the wall and Jaehyun, just to be safe from the girl, watching this the girl frowns because she wants to be next to him Especially if he's wearing something so tempting. The three get to the room full of make-up suitcases "Okay, we're already you can leave now" she smirks at Jaehyun "You know make-up artists have to be alone to do the job quickly and without errors" Jaehyun growls a little bit at her but knows he can't do anything because she's right "Tae, call me if you need anything" he looks at the male leopard like saying If this crazy girl throws herself at you call me at which Taehyung only nods, and Jaehyun takes his leave.

"Okay Tae, you can sit here" she purrs the words in an attempt to sound sexy "Please don't call me Tae, only people close to me can call me that" Taehyung says in a deeper and strained tone of voice, one he uses when he's not comfortable or mad, dreading being with her and sitting in front of her "Then we can get closer, don't you think?" she trails one of her fingers up his right arm, trying to reach his exposed chest, however a male hand stops her intention "Look I really don't want to say anything to the director about your inappropriate behavior but if you continue I'm not going to have another choice but to talk to him" at this point his chest was vibrating to let out a growl, but he contained himself. Watching his face she felt a little scared but that didn't deterred her purpose This man is going to be mine, he just doesn't know it yet. I mean, we're both leopards, we obviously belong to each other. I have to be more forward with that in mind she sits in his lap, wrap her arms around his neck and brings her face closer to his, watching how her prey open his eyes wide Oh he looks so cute, and he's gonna be mine "Come on Tae, I know you don't have a partner and look at me, we would be incredible together, you're hot I'm hot, we're both leopards, and I'm just feeling this electricity between us, it's incredible" with each word her voice goes lower and her face closer I can't just toss her, it could hurt her and it would make a mess.

"Lia, what are you doing on top of Taehyung?!" A woman's voice wakes up Taehyung from his shock and stands up, trying not to toss the girl with too much force, and turns to find a familiar face "Mrs. Choi?" "Mom! What are you doing here?!" the girl screams at the woman Is she the daughter of one of the best make-up artists? Taehyung thinks "No, the one who asks questions is me. Now, what were you doing on top of him?" "Mom, we're part-" "She sat on top of me! Started touching me and saying crazy things! And we're definitely not partners, I already have one and she's at home!" it's not his intention to almost scream but that's how it comes out, he wants to be clear with anyone who's listening that he already has a partner, a very beautiful partner What? He has a partner? Well, it doesn't matter he's not marked yet which means anything can happen the other leopard in the room thinks "Oh my God Lia, I told you that if you wanted to come with me you had to behave and why was the door closed, you know that until the senior enters the apprentice can't close the door" Mrs. Choi says "Are you the one who's going to do my make-up?" Taehyung says with a hopeful tone, and he's so relieved even his ears stand up in relaxation "Yes, darling. And I'm so sorry for my daughter" hearing her mother say that Lia crosses her arms in frustration If you hadn't enter mom I could've kissed him "Now let's do your make-up quickly Taehyung, after all this isn't the first time we work together" and it's true for most of his shoots Mrs. Choi has been the one does his make-up so, by now, the know what works the best. After 15 minutes Mrs. Choi is finishing his make-up, she really wanted to finish fast after all her daughter couldn't stop looking at Taehyung and trying to touch at very chance she could get, and the boy's obviously very uncomfortable; "There, all done" she says applying a thin layer of gloss to make his lips stand a little bit, Taehyung looks at himself in the mirror in front of him "Thanks Mrs. Choi, as always your work is impeccable" the woman smiles at him "My pleasure Taehyung, will be seeing each other because of this campaign so we'll see each other soon" Taehyung stands up and exits the room listening to something along the lines of "Let's go home young lady, we need to talk about boundaries at a work place" "But m-".

"Tae, you're finally out" Jaehyun starts asking as soon as he sees Taehyung "What happened? Did that girl do something? You know what? Where's the director, he needs to know this" "Hyung, hyung!" Taehyung almost screams but at least gest Jaehyun's attention "She's Mrs. Choi's daughter, apparently wanted to learn about this world" "Mrs. Choi's daughter? But she's so ahhh" Jaehyun makes angelic noise "and that girl was so oohhh" Jaehyun makes scary noises now, which makes Taehyung laugh out loud. Hearing a deep laugh the director approaches the two young men "Taehyung, did you finish? Are you ready?" "Yes Sir" Taehyung immediately stops laughing and transforms it into a serious face "Okay, please put yourself in front of the camera" the older male chuckles softly at the nervousness of the young leopard.

Modeling comes easy for Taehyung since he was recruited at 16 years old people has praised his good looks and how natural he's in front of a camera, however he started his official career at 20 years old and he's been doing it for 5 years now. It pays the bills and lets him have a certain commodity, and now that he found you he knows he can also provide for you as well. Being in front of the camera makes Taehyung sometimes feel weird or even shy depending on the type of shoot he's doing but once he switches on his modeling talent he can only focus on what pose to next so it can come as natural as possible, something many directors like when working with him is that the leopard almost never need directions he knows which are his best poses, his best faces and most importantly knows how to use his body, which angles show, in this case, the clothes better and how can his animal features add to the mix, play with his tail or hide his ears to show something.

Because of how good he is at his job the shoots ends on time, despite Taehyung being late, and now was time to go home There's no way I'm gonna keep working when it's almost noon and Beautiful doesn't have anything to eat "Hey hyung, I'm not feeling well, I think being with that girl really disturbed me, besides I think I ate something that's bloating me. I think I should go home, tell the other shoots we can double the time when we reschedule or the can pay me less" Jaehyun couldn't say anything because Taehyung starts running to the dressing room "Hi Danny" and changes his clothes in a flash "Bye Danny", the leopard runs again and encounter the Director "Great job Director, thank you for everything, have a nice day, I look forward to the next shoot I swear I'll be on time" he bows and runs again towards his car not even paying attention to the "Taehyung's" Jaehyun is screaming.

Once inside his car he makes a plan First I need to buy her a phone, hers is obviously so old it doesn't work anymore, I have to buy one for Jiwoo too because I know how important she's to Beautiful. Second, the both need clothes just a few and the we can go together to buy more. Finally, groceries for the three of us. Parking at the mall, Taehyung goes straight to a store where he can buy the phones, for his Beautiful he buys the same one he has but pink because he saw that many of her things had that color It suits her that color he smiles at the thought, and for Jiwoo he buys same model but white. Outside of the store he looks at the watch on his wrist Damn it, there's not a lot of time adding something more to the list he goes to the food court and approaches to a Italian restaurant and orders 3 lasagnas to take, and while they're making them Taehyung goes to a store for clothes as soon as he sees a clerk similar to your body type he asks her to pick six shirts, two pair of jeans, and 4 pair of shorts It's getting hotter these days with summer approaching, he pays and goes to another store for the underwear where he basically does the same but this time with a very red face and animal ears glued to his head from embarrassment, in this store he pays even faster. He has to accept he must look like a mad man running from one place to another with a lot of bags; he gets to the restaurant and picks up what is gonna be lunch. Running again he sees his car closer and closer, he puts the lasagnas in the front seat and the rest of the bags on the back seat, once inside he takes route to the nearest supermarket around his building.

Getting off the car after parking, he takes a supermarket cart an starts going through the aisles to pick up and put inside the cart the food of his choice I just hope they like what I'm choosing, but I can always bring them with me if she wishes something else. With the supermarket already seen he approaches the cashier and pays and pack everything as fast as he can, looking at his watch once more he notices it's noon Okay I'm close just have to hurry up a little bit he tries to run with difficulty from the heavy grocery bags. This time he puts the bags on the trunk and gets up inside to start driving to the destination he wants to arrive the most Home.

Finally seeing his building he presses the gas a little bit more, once inside the parking lot, he parks next to his other car and takes out all of the boxes that despite being heavy he can carry all of them thanks to the gym and his leopard genes. He walks towards the elevator and calls it, it doesn't take long and it opens its door and he walks inside. Marking the 10th floor, he's almost buzzing with excitement, his tail is wiggling behind him in a happy manner. The elevator chimes and announces it arrived at its destination opening its doors. The leopard exists and runs for his apartment, in front of the door he opens it Finally. "I'm home"

Chapter 5

Taglist: @lovely247 @apathina @kalala22 @singukieee @tinyoonsblog @arantxaglz @btsiguess-kpop @lachimolala22019 @goldeneclipsedragon @sophiaj650 @sukunasstomachtongue @djodjom1 @uarmyhore @to-see-without-eyyes @chatsgotmytongue @kyuupidwrites @thebisexualonesworld if you don’t want to be on this taglist anymore let me know :), and if you want to be just leave a comment saying so :)

#kpop #kpop stories #kpop scenarios #bts #bts series #bts scenarios #bts hybrid series #bts hybrid au #hybrid!au #hybrid bts #hybrid au #bts hybrid x reader #bts x reader #bts poly au #ot7 x reader

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basedkikuenjoyer · 6 months

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Remember Remember the Fifth of November

Remember, remember the fifth of November. We're soon to cover a lot. I see no reason, why Sorbet's malfeasance should ever be forgot.

Seriously...we get our biggest RA origins chapter on Guy Fawkes Day? Rad even if purely coincidental. We also have this quiet peculiarity. Something that's been brought up here before. The cover page is just part of the main story? Yes, request apparently but it's a natural fit. That's new. Even Pudding was cluing us in on a past happening pertinent to an event. Watch stuff like this, the "rules" of the narrative breaking down. It's also really, really cute. Where are those fish ending up? Okay, let's get to the real meat of this. You can probably guess from the chapter title...

I'm the Mickey to your Minnie, you're the Tigger to my Winnie...Ginny! I'm...dating myself with memes aren't I? Ginny has become a fast, fast favorite. This was already a thing too, but seeing adult Ginny I get what people mean. There's a certain sensibility to being Bonney's mom...but she does look like another skrunkly glutton on Egghead more than anything. York is a clone, this has dark implications. Please don't be too cruel to new blorbo Oda. I'm gonna add her to the figure collection I promise.

Seriously though...how many of y'all get that Ginny is exactly what I've been on about? Forget Kuma's whole taking on burdens thing and being a goddamn blaring echo of the Crane Wife story. I can make this easy now. Ginny is what it would look like if you plugged Nami's character into the "quartermaster" role I've used Kiku as a guidepost for.

We're already past the point of teasing about lack of subtlety so I don't know what to say anymore. This flashback is making a big to-do about someone who fits the bill for the exact archetype straddling the present story around two foils. Doing it in a way that could lead back to a darker scene from Vegapunk's past. If that wasn't apparent enough,

Really driving the point home with Sorbet. Just like Goa & Gray Terminal. Just like Bakura & Okobore. These two were the tentpoles of the lawless waste being kicked around. Marco, Toki, Yasu, Kiku & Tsuru...pay attention when a core theme of the previous arc comes up like that. Especially that beat about marriage and Ginny's suitors. If that wasn't all enough, there's one element here I can't shake:

Look at Kuma's chest, the faint blackening...does it kind of make you think of Luffy's scar? You see it in the eyes too, we're not used to seeing adult Kuma with normal features for him. His expressions...it's a concept we've talked about a lot. This late in the game you notice when a character gets visual traits usually reserved for the protagonist. Kuma does this a fair amount, and the whole story sorta does have the same tone as like...if Luffy & Uta grew up together. Or if he stayed in Okobore with Kiku for a few years even. As much as I love the Revolutionary lore, this has me going absolutely crazy right now.

#one piece #chapter 1097 #post-wano musings #kuma #ginny

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hyunsuks-beanie · 2 years

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Matters of the Heart Ep. 4

Pairing: Best friend! Yeonjun x gn. reader

Genre: Fluff; Angst; Maybe eventual smut

Content Warnings: University au!; lots of pining; our main leads being stupid; I haven't planned smut for this one, but it might as well turn suggestive. This part is actually pretty sweet, and I had a lot of fun writing it!!

Word Count: 1.9k words

Mellow speaks: So we finally have something sweet and adorable, it might seem like a filler chapter but it's actually one that shows just how strong Yeonjun and Y/N's bond is, or at least that's what it looks like to me. So I hope you guys like it!!

Tagging: @sweethyuka @yedamology @enhacolor @axartia @hyunsuksmygod @yogurteume @duolingofanaccount @zurimochi @blahbluhblahbluh @yjs6x @silent--cry @delacyrose224 @rlajjunie @jjunbugg @blue-last-page-514 @bluxjun @yutacchin @zen003xx @yawnzznlvr @magicalstudentwhispers @yeonyeonyeonjun @foryawnzzn @bluejin0812 @nyfwyeonjun

(Taglist is open!! Send in an ask/dm to be added, or simply comment under this post!)

《Previous Next》

"Late again," he thinks to himself, groaning internally as he rushes out of his car, grabbing his bag as fast as he can and almost smashing his hand in the door as he shuts it close. He can't believe himself, being late on the first day of his last semester. Sure, he's been late tons of times before, but this must be a new record even for him. And as if that wasn't enough, him being late is also bound to put Shake Em' Up behind schedule too. The show never starts without him, after all, is what he thinks as he dashes across the campus, his feet dusting off the gravel in his wake. But he's barely reached the middle of the compound when a voice rings out all around him, a voice so familiar that it makes him stop in his tracks. A voice he had thought he'd never get to hear like this again, but one that makes his heart do a somersault nonetheless.

"Ready to shake everyone's morning up, it's your favorite RJ, Y/N L/N, signing into the radio room!"

"I can't do that," you had retorted for the fifth time on your first morning back, the click-clack of your boots echoing through the silent halls as you made your way to the staircase, "I can't steal that post away from you." Yours weren't the only feet walking through those halls at that early hour, though, the soft tapping of Yena's kittens to be heard next to you as she lets out an exasperated sigh. "But that post is yours to begin with," she tries to reason, trying once more to convince you to become the RJ again, "I was only filling in for the OG."

"Yeah and I'm sure you have been doing a fantastic job of it," comes your reply, a soft smile on your face as you come to a stop near the foot of the stairs. "I think it's time I let go of what's in the past and let new talent take over." "No can do," she's quick to retort, placing a hand on your arm as she stops right in front of you. "The show is the result of the two years of hard work that you've put in, with Yeonjun, and I know that no matter how good of an RJ I become, I'll never be able to love it the way you guys do."

"I've always been in awe of how serious Yeonjun seems to be about Shake 'Em Up, and from the all the recordings that Soobin and Beomgyu keep stacked with them, I can tell the show's just as special to you as it's to him. And it's only natural that you should be the one to share it with him during his last semester, and both as his best friend, and as his partner-in-crime. I just wanted to put my managerial skills to good use when I signed up for the radio, I would never have thought I'd end up becoming an RJ. But believe me, these five months have been more fun and more informative than I could have imagined, but I think it's time for me to bow out now."

You just stand there for a solid minute, seemingly unable to comprehend how someone can be this pure-hearted. You were right to think you wouldn't be able to bring yourself to dislike her even if you tried, no matter how hurt you had felt the previous day. Yena has to be one of the nicest people you've ever had the pleasure of knowing, and you've only known her for less than a day. Yeah, she's right. You had been the first one to take the lead in bringing the campus radio, that had almost been dead until you had stepped foot into the university, alive again, and Yeonjun had been by your side every step of the way.

The morning show had started it all, and you can vividly remember the wide smiles on both of your faces the first time you had logged into the intercom. Soobin had joined in not long after, claiming that someone needed to "keep and eye on Jjunie," and he had even brought Beomgyu along to manage the records, though everyone in your group knows he's more on the making-a-mess side of things than on the cherishing-and-preserving-everything side. Nevertheless, his constant butt-ins into your show were a breath of fresh air, and so he had stayed. Fast forward six months later, and Taehyun and Kai had stepped into the radio room, and into your lives as well. They took charge of the afternoon show, and there crackhead energy became an instant hit among the students, just as they became a part of your friend circle.

So yes, it's the radio that had made your life as a uni student brighter and more colorful, and it's the radio that had given you the five friends you cherish more than life itself. It's the radio that had given you Yeonjun, and it'd be a lie to say it hadn't hurt getting to know Soobin had been forced to find a new co-host for your best friend while you were gone. Yet even then, it had almost felt wrong to even want your place back, and you had come to terms with the fact that you won't be a part of Shake 'Em Up anymore.

Still, you couldn't help it when your feet had carried you over to the gymnasium building that morning, the habits which had become second nature to you somehow coming back now that you were home. You had just wanted to observe from the sidelines though, going on air never having been your plan. And yet, right now, as you witness Yena passing the baton back to you, you're filled with the familiar "morning vigor" like Beomgyu used to call it.

So that's why, ten minutes later finds you smiling at the girl who sits by your side, a deep breath making your chest heave as you turn the intercom on. You can feel your voice shake just a bit, nervousness taking hold of your being as you try to channel your inner 'Rockster Y/N.' But as the words slip past your lips, like you never had stopped being an RJ, your confidence slowly makes its presence felt, speaking through the mic coming like second nature to you.

"To all of you who already know who I am and missed me while I was away, here's a kiss to your cheeks from me! And to all the freshman whom I haven't had the pleasure of getting to know yet, a massive hello to every one of you from your veteran RJ, Y/N! I hope you'll let me be a part of your mornings, and I'm looking forward to shaking you awake!" By the time you're done with your introduction, you're smiling from ear to ear, your annual greeting to all your juniors having arrived at last, even if six months late.

"Since my lovely co-host, Choi dumbass Yeonjun is late again....someone really needs to kick his ass, our adorable Yena, who I'm sure has been keeping all you guys entertained in my absence, will be taking his place. Say hi to them, Yena!," you squeal, witnessing for the first time how your junior tackles being on air. As she expertly fills people up with their daily dose of campus news, you watch on, feeling proud of how well she handles herself. Soon enough, you're piping in on your own, throwing in quick oneliners and asking questions as you get immersed in the animated conversation.

It's really fun having her around, and you feel glad that your little group finally got a female member, after years of you being surrounded by a band of idiotic boys. She's a really fun person to know, and the way she interacts with the mic tells you that the radio was in good hands even when you weren't there. You get so engrossed in jockeying with her, that you don't even hear the door unlock and be shut again, and it's not until he reaches out and takes hold of your mic, pulling it away from you and into his hand, that you realize he's in the room, standing right behind you.

"Ganging up on me, are ya?," Yeonjun chuckles darkly, his voice holding an edge to it as he speaks into the intercom. He's glaring down at the two of you, or rather, mostly at you, his right brow quirked while you silently challenge him. "So what if we are?," you mutter, speaking loud enough for your voice to be heard on Yena's table mic, a smirk plastered to your face as she looks on in amusement.

He can only tsk at that, shaking his head a little before saying, "Your first day back and you're already teaching her to be against me? No fair, Y/N." Your response to his words is rather a comical one, a gasp escaping you as your eyes go big, your mind trying to come up with a retort. And while you do so, your listeners are left laughing amongst themselves, the old-timers happy at finally having your adorable banter back, and the new ones warming up to your antics as you sass your best friend. "Well, ain't my fault that you can never be on time."

Just like that, it feels as if you're back to where you used to be, your playful back-and-forth bringing the entire radio alive as you exchange laughter and happiness, all sorts of random things making their way to your listeners' ears, reminding them of why they started listening to the morning radio in the first place. With your stomach hurting for laughing so much, you take to the mic one last time, happy tears streaming down your cheeks as you say, "And as we wrap up today's show, I just wanna welcome each and every one of us to the new semester, which might be the last for quite a few of us students."

Uttering those last words, you can't help but sneak a glance at Yeonjun, smiling softly as he meets your gaze. That is, until Yena snaps you out of your trance, making you crack up once more as she says, "I think, what Y/N means to say indirectly is that Yeonjun is now a certified oldie." That's the cue for him to start whining once more, ready to start another wave of arguments before you stop him, a "Here's the last song for today, perfect for welcoming us into the new semester."

With that, your fingers push the console to the max, Seventeen's 'World' starting to bleed from every single speaker. Next thing you know, everyone's jamming to the "Won't let you down," your own radio room turning into a disco of sorts as you dance around, moving your body in sync with Yeonjun's, as if that's the only way you know how. In that moment, with those huge smiles on your faces, there's just an aura about you, your happiness seemingly belonging with the other as you dance away to the last chorus.

You might not realize it, but Yena can see it clear as a crystal, and while she too, doesn't understand, she gets a feeling there's something she doesn't know.

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jamgoesart · 2 years

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Chapter 10

Why are you dead?

Three times had been flown, and all of them, were dead in the end. For the most diverse reasons.

For the first constellation of Coyote in the lead and Phoenix and Bob behind, the flight ended after one turn. When asked by Maverick why group one was dead, it was Natasha who blamed it on flying higher than three hundred feet and the missile, hitting the team, but for Pete, this was not reason. In this case, it was due to Machado, who slowed down and forgot to communicate with his wingman, who was too focused on the track.

'Was there a reason that the family accepts at the funeral?'

That question sat. And it continued.

'Why did the curve surprise you? You knew the terrain from the briefing. Don't tell me. Tell his family.'

•●•

The second group looked similar. At the top Hangman with Payback and Fanboy as Wingman. One group, that's all this formation had been. No team. But who was surprised that Jake was not a team player? Left alone, not listened to his wingman, no consideration. The reason they were dead. Instead of waiting for Paypack, Hangman had to increase the speed, which led to the fact that the two-seater went off the track and crashed into the imaginary rocks.

"I flew as fast as I could," Jake explained in an arrogant tone in response to Pete's inquiry as to what had happened, "As if my life depended on it."

"And, you endangered your team, and your wingman is dead," Rooster legitimately interjected.

"They couldn't keep up.", a response that could only come from Jake and that, in his arrogant way as if this, didn't matter much.

"Then it's going to be a rather short pleasure with you," Kim murmured, and with an innocent look, looked briefly at Jake, who turned to her, knowing exactly what she was alluding to, "As fast as you could?"

"There's no reason to be slower unless you give me one," Jake replied, putting on a provocative smile, "How about it?"

Declining, though with a grin also on her lips, Kim shook her head and looked ahead again at the simulation.

•●•

Last but not least, it was Yale and Oklahoma's turn with Rooster at the front. Basically, the team had made it, but the three were too slow, which is why Pete declared them dead despite everything.

"Why are you dead? You were in charge up there," from the simulation behind him, Mitchell looked to Bradley, "Why are you.... why is your team dead?"

"Sir," Phoenix intervened, "He was the only one to reach the target."

"A minute too late. He gave the enemy planes time to shoot him down," Maverick put a damper on the group, "He's dead."

"That's not certain," Rooster countered.

"You're just not flying fast enough," Jake now joined in, "You can't lose a second."

For Rooster, it didn't change the fact that his team had made it, and the possibility of being intercepted by enemy aircraft that outclassed them was not a reason for defeat, because it ended in a dogfight for Bradley. The fifth-generation fighter jets against one or two of them, in an F-18? Not feasible for Maverick, but the phrase, 'It's not the plane. It's the pilot,' did something to the captain. There was more than one way to fly this mission, and Bradshaw might be right about that, because after all, in most cases, there was more than just one way.

"You just don't get it. On this mission, every man has to fly like Maverick or the man doesn't come back.", a look to Phoenix followed, "Shouldn't be an insult."

"And yet you manage to make it always be one," retorted Bob, miffed, who was beginning to own enough of Jake, his sayings and remarks.

"I don't want to criticize you. You fly conservatively, that's all," at this Jake was interrupted by Pete, but he continued unperturbed, "We're going into a fight boy. At a level that no pilot has ever experienced. Not even him. Is not the time to think of the past."

"Shut up," Kim immediately spoke up, looking directly at Mitchell.

"What's that supposed to mean?" echoed Rooster, on the other hand. "Am I the only one who knows that Maverick flew with his old man?" wanted Jake to know from the group, which Pete tried to prevent and Kim, putting her hand in front of her eyes because it was turning into a kindergarten argument, "Or that Maverick flew as his old man....."

That's as far as Jake got, though, because Rooster had jumped up to go after the blond. This was so unexpected for Kim that she jerked out of her seat and looked to the airmen, who all jumped up to keep Bradshaw and Seresin from getting too close, even Pete had intervened.

"He doesn't have what it takes for this mission," Jake walked provocatively slowly toward Rooster, who had to be restrained by Bob and Phoenix, "You know that."

And you know it too. Without waiting for permission, Jake, addressing Maverick with these words, left the room.

"Hey," after the group was sent away by Pete, Kim walked up to him, put an arm around his shoulder and kissed him on the cheek, "All good.... We.... It's time."

After all these years, it was about time. Urgent.

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sebstanseabass · 3 years

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Afterglow (A Bucky Barnes AU fan fiction) - Chapter 13

Afterglow chapters

Pairing: Bucky Barnes x reader

A/N: Future you, r u okkkk

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

You stared at Bucky and the gentleman who was with him named Sam Wilson, completely dumbfounded; as if they both had three heads. They were seated across from you, Bucky with a glass of water, and Sam with a bottle of beer in his hand. Sam was just finishing his beer, as well as his speech about his business proposal which had to do with you taking photos of his new products, and models.

Bucky introduced Sam as a long-time friend and an owner of a sporting fit apparel named The Falcons. The name did ring a bell as soon as you heard it. You suddenly remembered passing through it while you and Bucky were strolling down Fifth Street, vaguely telling you about a friend who owned it and six other stores scattered in California, Chicago, London, and Australia (and was planning to branch out more in Asian countries); and here he was right in front of you, hiring you as a photographer for his big-time business.

Sam didn't give you a sliver of time to intervene with his flawless little speech he had committed to memory, as he spoke so fast. Some words were even incomprehensible to you — or perhaps it was just because the world was still whirling around you, given the prior event that just took place.

And now this.

You tried to give Bucky some kind of signal by giving him a look but he encouraged Sam further and urged you to listen to his proposal.

"So, y/n..." Sam rested his hands on the wooden table, his attention solely focused on you. "What do you think?"

If only you could tell him the truth that your mind was completely blank, you would. But you didn't want to embarrass yourself or Bucky for that matter, so you just gave him a smile and did the first thing you could think of. "Mr. Wilson — "

"Oh, you can just call me Sam. There's no need for formalities."

You nodded. "Sam... Do you mind if I have a little discussion with Bucky? It will just take a moment."

Sam leaned back on the cushioned couch of the booth and nodded. "Of course. Take all the time you need."

You didn't give Bucky the time to question why so you immediately stood up, grabbed Bucky's hand from across the booth and dragged his body towards one of the closets the bar rarely used. You closed the door behind you, and switched the light on. Even with the small lightbulb hanging from the ceiling, the inside of the closet still looked dingy, and the dust crawling on the walls and flying in the tight air space were clearly evident.

"Bucky, what the hell is going on?"

"Isn't it great?"

You smacked his arm. "Steve just told me he's getting me fired so that I can focus on my career as a photographer."

"That's even greater!"

You smacked his arm harder this time. "I'm not done." You hissed. "He's giving me one week to figure things out and then I'm fired. If I don't have shit figured out in that one week, I'm not gonna be able to pay for bills. Did you say something to Steve when you came here this morning? Don't lie to me, James."

He was rubbing his arm, brows furrowed. "I told him nothing."

"You showed him the photos I took last night. What was that all about?"

He sighed in defeat. "I just made him realize that you needed to be out there and not stuck here. You said it yourself, y/n, you're stuck in a rut and the only way to get yourself moving is to break from that routine. To go out there and explore the world."

"And then you just swoop in and bring your friend?"

"Yes."

"So, Steve just happens to realize that I needed to go out there and explore the world, and then it just so happens that your friend needs someone to photograph for his business?" You scoffed. "Bucky, do you expect me to believe that this is just one big coincidence? That you're not the one pulling all the strings in this little weird puppet show?"

"Yes, okay, I may have done something about those, said something, but — "

"Oh my god, you can't do that." You had the urge to get some air, and to pace back and forth as you tried to put your thoughts into words, but the space felt tighter the more you spoke. "You can't just walk into people's lives and, and... control everything! This is not just about chasing a dream, this is also about survival. I'm not rich like you. I don't have a safety net when things fall apart. You... You can't put all your trust in me."

"Well, someone needs to." Bucky sternly answered. "And if that someone should be me then so be it."

"I don't even know why you're going to great lengths for me." You looked down on the floor. "I... I don't get it, Bucky. I don't get you at all."

"Hey, hey, hey, listen to me, doll." His hands made contact with your skin, lifting your face to look at his blue eyes. "I apologize for taking things too far, I guess I could act so rash as well but I just wanted to do what I know is right and what would make you happy. Seeing you last night was... heartbreaking."

"So, you pity me." You sighed. "Everybody does."

"Call it what you want, y/n. But people who pity you won't ever believe in you and in what you do. But here I am putting all my trust in you. Your boss Steve does too. And Sam." A smile formed on his lips, making the insides of you flip.

"Your friend Sam sounds like a big deal and he hasn't even seen my photos. How can he trust me to do all this for him?"

"I put my word in for you. I told him if I was wrong, then to hell with me. And if you're worried about people assisting you during the shoot, don't. Sam has people all over and he just needs your beautiful eyes and hands and brain." He laughed. "Sam's a good guy and you're not going to be working for some big corporation. I know you hate those. This is perfect for you, trust me. And right now, all I need you to do is say yes to Sam, say yes to me, and most especially say yes to yourself. Please?"

The atmosphere became lighter, and the room didn't feel that tight any longer. His flattering words forever engraved in your mind. His warm hands stayed on both sides of your face, his face pleading.

You sighed and nodded your head slowly, finally convinced. "Okay, yes."

A grin started to crawl to his face and for a moment, his face drew closer to yours. "Okay, good. Now let's get out of here and tell Sam the good news."

You nodded but a touch of disappointment came, as Bucky's hands left your face. You never knew the presence of Bucky's skin against yours was one thing you could miss. You didn't even know if you should.

As soon as you sat down, you told Sam the good news and quickly ordered a bottle of champagne. You were supposed to get it for them but Bucky told you to sit down and let loose for a while, so you did.

Nat approached the booth with the cold champagne, and some glasses. She bent down and whispered to you, "You better tell me what's going on here. I wanna hear everything."

Sure, she did. Nat always wanted to. When it comes to water cooler gossip or any kind of gossip for that matter, Nat always wanted to dig her nose into other people's stuff. With a wink and a slight sway on the hips, she retreated to the counter and took more of people's orders. Beside her, you noticed Nick steal a glance in your direction but was averted away by people trying to get their drinks.

"Alright, let's toast." Sam declared. Bucky was just finishing filling yours when you focused your attention back at the two gentlemen in front of you. You thanked Bucky and mirrored Sam as he raised his glass. Bucky followed, his eyes with a luster glaze on you. "To new partners, beginnings, and to y/n."

"Thank you, Sam." You laughed, clinking your glasses. "And to Bucky, for trusting me enough to do this."

"To Bucky who wouldn't leave me alone until I said yes." Sam replied, emptying his glass.

You gave Bucky a look and shook your head. Being the cheeky man he was, the ends of his lips curved slightly which triggered the beat of your heart. The sudden changes you have been feeling when it came to Bucky have been scaring you but it wasn't a "bad scary"; it was the kind that excited everything inside you. A thrilling feeling that left you wanting more.

At the taste of the sprinkling cold champagne, for a moment, you were brought back to last night's events. A montage-like of red, blue and white lights illuminating the street, Howard waiting in the limousine, Wandavision, and then Bucky. After that, it was just Bucky's presence beside you and as you looked back at him, all you could think about was his soft warm lips pressed on your forehead. The entirety of it felt like you were living a dream — there were parts you couldn't remember and parts that you could, and the latter were just the ones you kept replaying in mind (even with Bucky in front of you), trying to imbue this dream-like memory and convince yourself that it was a memory.

Nat's voice pulled you out of your thoughts (and boy, were you thankful for it). "Hey, your shift's almost ending." She reminded you, passing by the booth, then turned to face Bucky and Sam. "Anything you want from the menu, boys?"

"No, thank you." Bucky replied then turned to you. "We should also be heading up."

"Oh." Nat's change in voice was so evident that you wanted to pull her out of here as soon as possible. "You guys are heading up, huh?" She teased, her eyes now on you.

"It's not what you think." You said. "He's just looking after me. Parker's gone to some corporate retreat for a week."

"Man, you're a babysitter!" Sam butted in, punching Bucky's arm lightly. "Oh, I can't believe this."

"No, I'm not."

"You can't even take care of your damn self, how are you gonna take care of her?"

"Shut up, Sam!"

"He's actually taking good care of me." You said, looking at Bucky.

"I'm sure he is." Nat chuckled which made you step on her foot. She cleared her throat in response.

"Anyway, I gotta go say goodbye to Steve." You said, standing up. "Hey Nat, do you want me to say hi to him for you?"

With her mouth slightly open, and eyes furrowed, she replied very slowly. "No."

You smirked. "Okay then."

You headed towards Steve's office, leaving Nat stunned in her place. Steve's office was slightly open so you didn't bother knocking and just went inside. "Hey, Steve. I'm off for tonight."

"Sure." He replied. "Hey, about earlier."

"What about it?"

"I'm doing it because I truly believe in you." He smiled. "And your new friend Bucky does so too."

You smiled at him right back. "Yes, Steve. Thank you."

"Take care, y/n."

"You too, boss!"

And with that, you headed towards the booth where Bucky and Sam were.

Out on the side of the street, the three of you parted ways, Sam hailing a cab and you and Bucky heading towards the apartment building. Once the elevator doors opened, you stepped inside and was greeted by its metallic smell.

"Hey, Bucky?" You said, quickly grabbing his attention. "T-thank you for this and for basically everything you've done for me for the past few days."

"Please, you don't have to thank me for this. I'm just really glad I'll be able to help you."

"And I promise once I get my shit done, have money and everything, I'm gonna pay you back — "

"Hey, hey, hey." He cut you off. "Who said anything about paying me back? You don't have to do that, okay?"

"But I feel like this is all too much, like, there's this thing tying me to you."

"Is that a bad thing?" He asked.

"When it comes to money, yeah kinda. And you've bought me all kinds of stuff — "

"Y/n, just..." He sighed. "You don't have to do or say anything. You don't have to worry about paying me back and even if you will, I won't ever ever accept it. Can we leave it at that?"

You sighed in response, the little ding! right on time. "Yeah, okay."

By the time you got in the apartment, you practically ran towards your room because of how exhausted you were but before you could even open the door, there was one more thing you needed to do.

"Bucky?"

“Yes?”

"I-I'm sorry again about last night and no," he was about to do his face whenever he cuts you off, "please, don't cut me off, let me finish."

Bucky walked towards you, his back facing Peter's room.

"This is about what I said... when I asked you to, uh, kiss me. You were right to stop me. I was drunk, sad and vulnerable and the moment wasn't right. It wasn't right. I would have regretted it the next day and would be so ashamed to face you. I might actually avoid you for a month." You sighed. "I'm really sorry you had to see that side of me. A kiss at that moment would be really inappropriate. When we — if we ever do, um, it wouldn't be like that... just like what you said. You said that right? You said, and I quote, not like this. 'Cause I keep hearing your voice saying that in my head." Bucky nodded, affirming it. "Okay. Um, yeah so in conclusion... I am sorry."

He slowly smiled, nodding his head. "You make a lot of speeches."

"Yeah, I'm the queen when it comes to it."

"And apology accepted, of course."

You warmed up with a smile. "Okay, thank you. Good night."

“Good night, doll."

Once you turned around, you felt a strong force on your arm, spinning your body which then collided with Bucky's, together with his lips crashing on yours.

It was like an impulse you couldn't avoid: for you to close your eyes, to move your lips in his rhythm, and to savor his breath. He tasted like cold champagne, and mint, with a hint of coffee. His lips, luscious, warm and soft; you were afraid of tearing them apart with your teeth. He kissed you with all the fervor of a lover. A lover talked about in books, movies, in fairytales.

Bucky's hands found their way around your hips, pulling you closer towards his body, while you rested yours on the sides of his face, pulling every inch of him, craving more of him. Slowly, you opened your eyes and tore your faces only an inch apart, foreheads touching. Lips empty but still hungry. You stayed right where you were; You never dared move an inch and so did he. You were still like statues. The only movement was the rapid rise and fall of your breathing.

Bucky's hands slid from your waist. You felt his fingers on the nape of your neck, his thumb tracing your lower lip and giving it a small, passionate kiss.

"Just like this, doll." He whispered. "Just like this."

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theoriginalcarnivorousmuffin · 3 years

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Describe what would happen if Lily (from "Lily and the Art of Being Sisyphus") suddenly found herself in cannon Harry Potter world in the middle of his fifth year? Oh, and she can't bullshit herself out of this one for some reason, instead she stays there for a month or two while Rabbit, Lenin, and Trotsky somehow join forces and try to find a way to bring her back. Bonus points if Lily crashes a DA meeting and kicks some peoples butts anticlimactically.

Oh boy, that I’m sure would go so well for all involved. In the middle, you say? Alright, let’s do this thing. For my sanity I’m going to pretend this taking place in an up to date version of “Lily and the Art of Being Sisyphus” as of chapter 7-whatever we’re on right now.

So, there’s a couple of different ways that Lily can arrive. There’s a few obvious ones that stick out to me.

First, it just somehow happens. Reality’s falling apart in Lily’s own dimension and two seconds away from collapse. Rabbit’s floating around as these things called dementors, eating Umbridge, speaking English all the time, shit’s going down. It’s not all that out of the realm of possibility that Lily accidentally falls into a wormhole which deposits her in canon land.

Second, someone summons Lily. Now, this could either be team good (hooray) or team bad (boo hiss). Lily, being a being of unspeakable power but fairly neutral alignment, could easily be summoned by both. That said, I’m not really sure who to blame the summoning on.

The obvious choice is Harry, because Harry is stupid enough to summon a god to the mortal realm to slay Voldemort and Hermione’s smart enough to figure out how to do that for him. Go omnipotent creature, kill that evil snake man! However, we’re inserting Lily into canon directly, which means no short cuts of Harry having the dumbest idea he’s never had. Otherwise it’s not so much that the Order’s smart enough to know this is a bad idea but that such an idea would never actually occur to them. It says a lot that Dumbledore only ever gives tasks of any importance to Snape, the Order is kind of just... Harry’s glorified babysitters and taxi service.

So Harry and or the Order isn’t summoning Lily to solve all their problems for them. Good on them, smart choice.

Now, what about the Death Eaters and Voldemort?

With the Death Eaters we have a similar problem as the Order. Such an idea would never occur to them or if it would then they’re smart enough to say “NOOOOOOOOOO”. That said, if it ever did, oh Bellatrix would be so down. But only if the being worshipped at the altar of Voldemort’s wonderful... Voldemortness. Whatever it is she sees in him.

Voldemort it depends where you lean on his characterization. We don’t actually see that much of him in canon, barely even hear from him, and we mostly hear about him from a variety of dubious sources (either people who have no idea what they’re even talking about or else Dumbledore who tells Harry this information while actively grooming Harry to kill himself). I’ve seen people characterize canon Voldemort as having once been brilliant but currently mad, as being mad and yet also brilliant despite his many failures, as not mad at all and his schemes are just so intelligent, so brilliant, that none of us can follow them and they all seem to end in failure, and there’s always what I think which we won’t discuss because I look bonkers enough on the internet.

Insane Voldemort might think it’s a great idea to summon some unknown god to stomp all over his enemies. I’m not exactly partial to cookoo bannanas Voldemort but honestly, it’s either him, Lily stumbling through a wormhole, or random kids chanting Bloody Mary in a mirror three times and out comes Lily.

Right, I wasted a lot of paragraphs on that.

Anyways, in the greatest scheme known to man, while Lucius is trying and failing to get that prophecy, Voldemort unearths some ancient text to summon an unknown god. A power that is unknown to mankind. So, I imagine Lily is summoned into canon much like that scene in Ghostbusters where the Sumerian god descends from the heavens. Glowing gate out of nothingness, fog machines, maybe a little less glitter and spandex, and instead Lily having no idea what the hell is even happening.

Lily, realizes she’s in deep shit as she notices Bellatrix prostrated on the ground in worship (of Voldemort of course, not Lily, Lily is just a deity and is nothing compared to the magnificence of the dark lord) as well as the various other Death Eaters all either looking terrified or in mindless awe of their lord’s amazing power. Lily feels like she’s entered Twin Peaks as she eventually is able to put together that the lisping snake man is supposed to be Wizard Lenin/Tom Riddle. Lily and Voldemort probably have tea or something, but as he’s crazy bananas in this version per my own convenience and he looks like something that eats children, it doesn’t go well and Lily gets increasingly weirded out and convinced she’s in some sort of parallel hell reality that comes about when Rabbit eats the entire goddamn universe. So much like someone in a surreal horror movie, Lily flees into the night and goes to Hogwarts to see what madness is there. At first, she’s confused, as Hogwarts looks... mostly Hogwartsy. There are some differences. Umbridge is still alive and apparently torturing all the children as opposed to just Lily. The dementors are gone and apparently Black has now been on the run for years. Default doesn’t exist, instead Hermione Granger is still happily in Gryffindor with Luna Lovegood sorted into Ravenclaw. The biggest marker that everything has changed is that Ellie Potter appears to have been replaced by Harry Potter: A boy who looks oddly like Uncle Death. Now, Lily knows that Death is an alternate reality’s version of her, but this guy doesn’t act anything like him or sound anything like him. Not even a much younger, amnesiac, version. Death... plays quidditch. What is this? Lily tries to return home but is blocked, realizing this means that the Rabbit explanation is more likely, and in Hogwarts decides to see if she can resurrect something of the world she knows out of this monstrosity or at least see where Wizard Lenin ended up. Rabbit, missing in action, should certainly be hunted down.

Lily decides that her best bet is to tail this Harry Potter, who might be the result of whatever happens when Ellie Potter (the persona) is digested. So, Lily cons her way into being a student, joins Gryffindor, and tries and fails to get into Harry’s friend group. First, though she’s older than the thirteen-year-old she’s pretending to be in her original story thanks to time travel, she doesn’t look fifteen yet either. Second, no one just injects themselves into the Golden Trio.

Still, Lily tries and while Ron thinks she’s damn weird and Hermione finds her suspicious, Lily earns herself a billion bonus points by figuring out that all she has to say is, “Oh gee, Harry, I believe you that this bloke named Cedric Diggory was murdered and Voldemort is back from the dead. It’s so awful the Prophet is calling you a liar now have you happened to see a fellow with white hair, black eyes, might be a rabbit? No? Well, do let me know when you do, because he’s late for a very important date.”

Unfortunately, even being close to Harry, there’s no sign of Rabbit but Lily starts getting pulled into Harry’s woes. She hears about his detention with Umbridge (laughs awkwardly as she remembers what happened to Umbridge in her world), hears about quidditch being cancelled (Lily could care less but pretends to be sympathetic, yes Rabbit-eaten Ellie, it is awful that quidditch is cancelled), hears about Dumbledore ghosting Harry (Lily unimpressed as this is what Dumbledore does), and hears about Voldemort’s mysterious actions of mystery involving glowing orbs.

Lily drops that she doesn’t exactly think Lord Voldemort’s a man with a plan here but that’s not what the gang wants to hear so reluctantly, and unprompted, Lily promises to look into it.

In the meantime Lily attends one DA session, turns it into horrifying dodgeball where the children are traumatized forever (because the patronus, Harry, really? That the grand self defense method against dark wizards we’re going to teach these people. No, no, we have to teach ‘duck or die’. You duck, or you die!) and is politely kicked out by Hermione who reminds Harry that he’s the one who should be teaching self defense and not terrifying transfer students who appear out of nowhere.

So Lily goes to fetch the prophecy instead. Having bullshit abilities and being secretly Harry Potter, in a way, herself she’s able to collect it and hears the thing. She remembers hearing this from her own dimension but decides to give it some more thought, then some more thought, then even more thought. She probably spends half a day trying to decide if this means Lily is secretly a zombie or Harry is the manifestation of her being secretly a zombie because ‘neither can live while the other survives’. Like all of us, Lily eventually decides prophecies are stupid, heads back home, and delivers the thing to Harry who is even less able to understand it than she is. Lily tells him that it probably means he’s a zombie, congratulations buddy, glad that’s been working out for you.

Meanwhile, as Lucius no doubt flips shit that the prophecy is simply gone, Voldemort starts taking action. He sends “I know where you live” letters to Lily at Hogwarts which promise doom and destruction and even more doom. Lily finds the idea of doom squared alarming. So, Lily decides to do what she does best, she sics one Tom Riddle on another Tom Riddle. What could go wrong? Lily asks Harry if he’s ever seen a diary with the name “Tom M. Riddle” on the inside cover. Harry flips shit and Lily has to talk fast to get him out of believing she’s the devil. When he tells her that Trotsky was murdered in perhaps the most hilarious manner possible in this world (a very true Rabbity end for him) she nearly gives up when impossibly she catches another hint of Tom Riddle in the air. She follows it to the source, the old Default Common room, and finds a very pretty tiara that Tom Riddle stuffed himself into.

Lily wakes him up in a very jarring manner, tells him that the other Tom Riddle is out there being Voldemort while he’s stuck here in a sad little crown, and tells him that it’s clearly his right to go beat the shit out of Voldemort to take what’s his and never bother Lily again. Tom is very, very, very confused. Instead of doing that he decides he’s going to stick around Hogwarts. That was not in Lily’s plan.

Forced, to hide his identity, Lily introduces him with the good old Albanian refugee trick. Only, without the excuse of A.L.F or Quirrell getting mauled by vampires that just sounds weirder than usual. Lily then backtracks and announces that Voldemort burned down his rural Welsh village (That’s right Umbridge, Voldemort is alive and burning down villages! I will take that detention, thank you!) Mot Elddir here is a true hero for surviving such an awful event and should be placed in Gryffindor now.

Harry is dumb enough though that meeting Tom Riddle face to face, even with blonde hair, Harry can’t quite recognize him though there’s something familiar with this chap. Dumbledore is not that stupid and starts gagging in horror at the staff table and has his suspicions of this Lily girl being a Death Eater/Voldemort himself confirmed. Dumbledore confronts Lily, Lily plays hilariously dumb, “What Death Eaters, people who eat death? Never heard of it, sounds contagious.” Dumbledore confronts Mot Elddir who just finds this all hilarious and has decided that Lily is his new favorite thing that he’s kidnapping as soon as he discovers what he wants to do with his life. He tells Dumbledore this is the best thing since Christmas, and yes he has many many evil schemes involving all the children (he has none). Voldemort instructs Snape to poison Lily, and while Snape feels a pang of conscience at murdering children, Dumbledore gives the go ahead in that they’ll send Lily to the hospital wing where perhaps they can then give her veritiserum and get some answers about what the hell Voldemort is up to. Well, Lily gets poisoned and realizes that she has so many enemies now that she honestly can’t tell if it’s Dumbledore (who is her enemy for her having blatantly released Tom Riddle) or Voldemort (who is her enemy because... she’s not actually sure why for that just that she maybe didn’t burn down London). Being Lily, she doesn’t die or is sent to the hospital wing, and just kills herself to wash the poison out. Snape is horrified and astounded that the girl appears perfectly fine. He’s even more horrified as he hears news of what he missed out on while at Hogwarts, Voldemort summoned some great power into this world and rumor has it that it’s loose at Hogwarts.

Lily talks to her newest Tom friend and tells him that if he’s going to stick around he should help her find out who just murdered her and all that. She doesn’t like being murdered, while dying’s alright, somehow being murdered makes it all that much more unpleasant. New Tom is not very sympathetic and notes that he’s here for his entertainment, not preventing her from being murdered. He just spent the past several decades as a crown, give him a break.

Dumbledore decides that time’s up, time to put Harry to the test. Unfortunately, Harry takes this as a moment to go “Welly well well, look who finally has time for Harry Potter? Finally has time to tell him a prophecy HE COULD HAVE TOLD HIM ABOUT YEARS AGO!” So, Harry destroys his office. After Harry has his Tommy Wiseau temper tantrum (I can’t imagine it any other way), Dumbledore tries to tell Harry that his new friend (who was so kind to fetch him that prophecy, impossibly, from the department of mysteries) is likely some eldritch abomination summoned by Voldemort from another world. Harry alone can defeat her.

Harry at first is angry and disbelieving. Dumbledore notes that Harry must have noticed that dear Mot is really just Tom Riddle going blonde. Harry is speechless, but it’s all true, and he desperately points out that Tom could have done something to Lily. Dumbledore notes that Lily was weird before Tom showed up, hasn’t Harry wondered why Lily doesn’t ever seem to need a wand? Ever?

Harry is horrified and leaves in a daze. On returning to Gryffindor he confronts Lily and asks her some of what Dumbledore asks him. Lily badly tries to pretend she had no idea Mot was evil incarnate, “Tom Riddle? What? No. No! There’s no way that Dear Mot could possibly be Tom” but has no excuses for why she’s so unbelievably talented. Lily decides to just go for it and explains to Harry that this world isn’t even real, it’s a cheap reflection of what reality used to be, that an extradimensional creature other than her has devoured them all and this thing is the result. Lily’s not sure she can fix it, but she can at least try to find the thing that did this to them.

This is enough confirmation for Harry and, fueled by betrayal, he demands a duel with her. Lily notes she doesn’t want to duel but Harry insists. Rather than do it, she runs away, grabs Tom and notes they’re leaving Hogwarts now. Only, outside of Hogwarts protection, she and Tom are easily tracked down and picked up by Death Eaters.

Tom is vaguely embarrassed by the whole get up, as Lily points out how and why it’s ridiculous, while Voldemort probably circles the pair of them and gives some very menacing lisping speech of evil. Lily points out that this is not her fault, Voldemort’s just weird and Lily kind of likes London, she feels no need to stomp on it.

Before Lily’s forced to kill Voldemort, Rabbit finally shows up, notes that Lily’s the one who’s late, and pulls her into a wormhole.

The other Tom Riddle is left behind in dumb horror, realizing as the seconds tick by, that apparently Lily is not coming back for him.

The end.

#ask #anon #lily and the art of being sisyphus #the order of the phoenix #harry potter #albus dumbledore #rabbit #voldemort #tom riddle #not the most well thought out outline ever but this is a tumblr post guys #i do like how it just became lily hanging out with the horcrux of the week anyway

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aidanrgallagher7 · 4 years

Text

Love in The Midst of Doomsday ~

Five Hargreaves × Reader

Story Summary: When Five joins the commission after the apocalypse, he meets you and falls in love. When he finds out that he can go back and save his family, he does so and leaves you behind. Only to find you again a couple days before doomsday.

Word Count 3.1k

Warnings: none for this chapter

_____________________________________

Prologue~

When you joined the Commission five years ago, you had no one. Everyone avoided you because they saw you as a threat. You are one of the top assassins in the Commission you see, so when you came along, people were afraid of you. The Handler, however, favored you the most. She took you under her wing when she found you in an alleyway all alone and nowhere to go. She calls you her "minnie me" because of how similar you are in cleverness and strength. So when the day the Handler came to you, telling you that she will be taking in a man without a real name, shocked you to say the least.

"I am your assassin Handler, why do you need another one?"

Handler "Oh I know sweetpea," she puts a piece of hair that has fallen into your eye behind your left ear, "but he needs a home just like you did. He has been stuck in the apocalypse for forty five years-"

"Are you serious?"

Handler "Yes, do you see why we need to take him in?"

"W-why doesn't he have a name?"

Handler "It is complicated. I am sure that he will tell you all about it when he meets you, hmm?"

"Okay."

Handler "That's my little minnie me." She kisses your forehead and then takes your hand to lead you to her office. When she opens up the door, sitting in one of her chairs is an extremely handsome gentleman. So handsome that it takes you aback for a moment or two.

Handler "Five, this is Y/n. Y/n this is Five." When he looks into your eyes, it is like the whole world stopped.

Five "Hello, i-it is nice to meet you." He stuttered. He reached for your hand and you gratefully took it.

"It is nice to meet you too." In that moment he smiled, and you could feel your heart start to race. Five's smile is the most beautiful smile that you have ever seen. His whole face lights up as his smiles at you and the Handler notices it as well.

Handler "Well, Y/n is our trained assassin here in the Commission. She has done many jobs for me and every single job has been completed successfully. So Y/n, you will be training Five to be as skilled if not more skilled than yourself in the field."

"You want me to train Five?"

Handler "That is right."

"But you trained me, why won't you train Five?"

Five "No it's okay, really. I would like for you to show me your skills. The Handler has told me a lot of your work, I'd be honored to learn from you." You try your hardest not to blush but it is very hard. He isn't just handsome, he is kind and sweet.

"Okay, when should we start?"

Handler "Now. I have cleared your schedule so you can start his training now."

Five "Perfect."

"I'll meet you outside in the field, can you just give us a moment please?"

Five "Absolutely." We smiled and then walked out the door. As soon as the door is shut, you squeal like a child even though you are an adult. The Handler bursts out laughing, laughing so hard that she starts to snort.

"You hired him on purpose!"

Handler "Maybe I did, maybe I didn't." She shrugs her shoulders. "I had to do a little somethin-somethin for you! You're like my daughter besides Lila!"

"Thank you, I don't really know what else to say.."

Handler "You don't have to say another word," she boops your nose, "now go on, he's waiting for you." You giggle like a schoolgirl in love, about to go meet the jock on the football field.

_____________________________________

When you get your training bag from your room, you meet Five in the training field: it is basically an arena for people in the Commission to train for whatever tasks the Handler has given to them. You are a nervous wreck but that is only because you don't want to make a fool of yourself in front of the new guy.

"Hey, are you ready?"

Five "As ready as I can be."

"First, you have to learn the basics."

Five "Which are?"

"One on one combat."

Five "I have to hit you?!"

You laugh, "You won't hurt me, but if you do, that is good. That means that you will be able to move onto the second stage."

Five "I don't want to hurt you."

"I am your trainer Five. Do not worry, I won't take it personally." He sighs and puts his hands up, preparing to fight. As soon as you swing once, he ducks and kicks your leg, making you fall to the ground.

"Good." He offers you a hand up.

Five "I'm sorry." He helps you off of the ground and you get close to each other.

"I am not mad Five. I want you to fight. When you are on a job, you can never make it personal."

"Yes ma'am." His training went on for an hour or two, you are not exactly sure. It was more fun than any of your other training sessions that you have done in the past. Of course, Five did not make it easy for you to beat him in combat. He is way stronger than you took him for. All you know is that you are definitely going to be bruised and sore in the morning.

Five "Did I pass?" He asked, out of breath.

"Yeah, yeah I'd say so." You say as you wipe a bit of blood off of your mouth. He takes your hand and uses his own hand to finish wiping it away.

Five "I'm really sorry..I didn't mean to hurt you like this."

"It's okay, I promise. You did really good, I am impressed. Especially on the first day."

Five smiles, "Well I am not like everyone else."

"What do you mean?"

Five "I am..let's just say, different."

"In what way are you different?"

Five takes your hand in his own, "Do you trust me?"

"...Of course"

Five "Okay, don't let go of my hand." And before you could answer, you were engulfed in a blue light. And in that light, Five ran you both through it and in no time at all, you were on the whole opposite side of the field.

"W-what?

Five "Yeah-"

"H-how did you just do that?"

Five "Maybe we should go inside. It's going to be a long conversation." He takes your hand again and just like last time, he blinked you into his room. Your head is spinning and you have no idea what to think. Five seemed like everyone else: a regular human being. But that is far from the truth.

"What are you?"

Five sighs, "I am one out of seven siblings. Specifically, I am the fifth sibling to be born with special abilities."

"So there are six other people like you?"

Five "Yes but my siblings have different abilities. Mine just happens to be blinking."

"Blinking?"

Five "I can time jump to anywhere at any time. That is why I showed you on the field."

"And your siblings?" He explains to you all of their abilities and it is a huge pill to swallow but you are amazed. He tells you all about his father and how he got stuck in the apocalypse. You find Five so interesting and he amazes you with new information that you thought only existed in tv shows and movies.

Five "I didn't mean to get stuck there. I was just trying to show my father that I was strong enough to time jump into the future. Sadly, I was able to jump into the future but I just jumped too far."

"Why couldn't you jump back?"

Five "With my powers, I have limits. The more power I use, the more tired I get. When I am weak or drained, I cannot blink. But believe me, I tried everything I could to get back to my family."

"I am sorry."

Five "Thank you. Then the Handler found me and brought me here.. now you know everything."

"Does the Handler know about your powers?"

Five "Yes. That is why she even hired me in the first place."

"Well I am glad that she did. It's been pretty lonely here in the Commission before you showed you." He blushes and smiles from ear to ear.

Five "It is nice to see a woman as beautiful as yourself after being alone for forty five years." You start to laugh.

"I must say I have never heard that one before." He starts to laugh along with you, then he blushes.

Five "Sorry.."

"No, don't apologize. I'm really glad that you are here."

Five "Me too-" the Handler cuts Five off by knocking on the door.

Handler "Sorry to interrupt you two but I was wondering how his first day of training went?"

"If you can't tell by my lip, he did very well."

Handler "Ahh I am so glad to hear it!"

"He can go onto the next stage of training tomorrow."

Handler "Wow Mr. Five I must say that I am impressed."

Five "Thank you."

Handler "Well, dinner starts in a bit..I'll see you two downstairs." She smiles and then closes the door. Five sighs and sits back down onto the bed.

"What?"

Five "I really hurt you didn't I?"

"I have been hurt a lot worse, trust me. A cut lip is nothing Five."

Five "Well I'll make it up to you, I promise."

You blush, "Okay." You ended up getting cleaned up before dinner and Five did the same. You feel yourself fallen for Five Hargreaves, fast and hard.

_____________________________________

Four Years Later:

You and Five have been married for a year and a half now. Ever since the first day you two met, you have Five have been inseparable. You and Five are also the strongest unit the Commission has ever seen. In fact, the Handler has put up a plaque of yours and his face on the wall of honour. It is crazy to realize how far you and him have come, not just as a couple, but also in your jobs. However, recently Five has grown tired of working in the Commission. He has killed more than he can count and he is grown sick and tired of killing for the Handler. He has come to you in confidence, telling you how badly he wishes to leave the Commission and find a way to go back in time to save his family.

"You should speak to her, maybe she can find a way."

Five "Even if it is possible, I don't think that I would be able to take you with me."

"I love you Five. You know that I do, I want you to be happy."

Five "I am happy with you babe, I just miss my family."

"I know you do, so go talk to her. If she can make that possible, then go save your family."

Five wipes away a stray tear, "I love you."

"I love you too." He kisses you long and hard, before off of the sofa and heading out the door.

…

When Five returns, he has a smile on his face. He explains to you that it can be done but it will take a few weeks to make absolutely sure that the briefcase will time jump back to that specific day.

"That is wonderful, Five! I am so happy for you." He kisses you but when he pulls back, his face turns to sorrow. "What, what's wrong?"

Five "I can't bring you with me Y/n."

"She told you that?"

Five "Yes." You bring his face to yours and you rest your foreheads together.

"I want you to be happy Five. Truly happy. You are my husband and I love you. I know that you love me just as much, but I also know that you love your family. And you miss them. So if you want to, I will let you."

Five "If I could-"

"I know."

Five "Remember our vows?"

"In this life and the next."

Five smiles, "I will find a way to get back to you, Y/n. I promise." You nod.

The day Five left, was the hardest day of your life. Watching the love of your life, disappear right before your eyes, was hard to say the least. You know that there is a great possibility that you would never see Five again, and that broke your heart into a million pieces.

Handler "Oh come on sweetpea, you will find love again!"

"I did find my love, Five is my husband!"

Handler "I know that, but why did he leave you if he loved you so much?"

"What are you talking about? You told him that I couldn't go with him."

Handler "Y/n, more than one person can time travel at once. You know that."

"Yes but the jump was too far back.." the Handler gave you the 'come on really?' face and your heart just sunk. "Did he really go back to his family?"

Handler "Yes, that part is true."

"Why would he lie?"

Handler "I don't know honey, but it is time to focus on the Commission again. That was your passion before Five came along." Little did you know that Five never lied to you, the Handler has hated the fact that you have been putting jobs second to your marriage. So she took care of the problem.

"You are right. When is my next job?"

Handler "Tomorrow morning-" she hands you a folder with all of the details that you need to know in order to complete your mission.

"I will get it done."

Handler "There's my girl I know and love!" You force a smile walk out of her office. You do not fully believe that Five lied to you, he has never in the past so why would he start now? Nonetheless, you pushed on and started working again.

_____________________________________

Five Years Later:

Five never came back, even after all these years he has not come back to you. Your heart has never fully healed but you have come to the realization that he was never coming back, and have made peace with that. Yes, you have your sleepless nights where you cry yourself to sleep. But thankfully you have a job where you can take out all of your hate and sadness on clients that the Handler wanted gone. Today, the Handler came to you with a job that involved you going back in time and you gladly took it.

Handler "This briefcase will take you back to November 15th, 1963."

"And why this date?"

Handler "There is a plot to kill John F. Kennedy and I want for you to stop that."

"Why, the last time Five did that, you almost fired him!?"

Handler "That was two years ago! I have changed my mind, now..do you want the job or not?"

"Yeah, yes of course."

Handler "That's a good girl, here you go." You take the briefcase from her hands and take it to your room. When you think back on that date, you realize that your father will still be alive in that time period. Are you really going to be able to see your father again? You asked yourself. You lost your father in 2014 due to old age (natural causes). When you lost him, you lost your home, your friends, everything. That year, the Handler found you and took you under her wing. Maybe you will be able to see him, that would bring you so much comfort that you so desperately need. So without any more hesitation, you take a deep breath and open up the briefcase.

_____________________________________

November 15th, 1963:

When you arrive at the designated time period, you arrive right on your father's doorstep. Before you can knock, a man opens up the door. That man is your father.

Elliot "Oh my god, Y/n! Where have you been?!"

"Dad?"

Elliot "You've been gone for hours, you didn't leave a note. Where have you been?"

"S-sorry I went to the diner to get some food."

Elliot "Oh okay." He said as he shut the door behind him.

"Dad, will you excuse me for a second?"

"Yeah! I have to get back to my research anyway." You rush to your bathroom mirror and find your younger self staring back at you. You scream out in shock, alerting your father.

"Y/N?! HONEY?"

"I- I'm fine! It was just a spider!"

"Oh, don't scare me like that!" You think to yourself, how is this possible? How did this happen? You take deep breaths and try to calm yourself down. Not only do you have to save the president, but you are now home and stuck in your sixteen year old body and your dad thinks that you are his teen daughter, coming home from the diner..wonderful!

"Okay Y/n..you've got this. Pull yourself together. Do what needs to be done and get back into your adult body." You pep talked yourself in the mirror.

When you get out of the bathroom, you find your father going around the apartment like a madman, looking at scraps of paper.

"Dad, what are you doing?"

Elliot "You know what I'm doing silly."

"Tell me again..I kind of forgot."

Elliot "Uhm..okay.. come here and I'll show you." When you look down at the scraps of paper, you find a group of six people, lined up next to each other. "Okay so, you know how every year for the past year or so we have seen a blue flash of light coming from our window?"

You lie, "Yeah."

Elliot "Well I am trying to piece together these people that have come from this blue light."

"Do you know their names yet?"

Elliot "I've only gotten Allison and Diego so far." And then it clicked, those people your father is trying to figure out is Five's siblings. But before you could open your mouth to speak, there was a knock on the door. "I'll get that sweetie. How about you get yourself a cup of coffee, you look tired." Without hesitation, you agree and pour yourself a cup of coffee and take a sip as your dad opens up the door.

Elliot "What do you want?"

"Hi, I'm selling encyclopedias for my youth group-" before the person could finish, your dad slams the door in his face. You burst out laughing, that is until the person comes into your house. But he did not open up the door to come inside, he blinked. Your father screamed out in fear of not knowing how the boy did what he just witnessed, but you knew exactly who the boy was. You panic and drop your coffee mug and it cracks on the floor.

The boy looks at you and makes direct eye contact.

"F-Five?" That is all he had to hear.

Five "Y/n?...Y/n!"

Elliot "..y-wait what?! How do you know this kid?!"

You both "Long story."

@moriartysringtone7137 @a-mess-of-fandoms @noellehnsherr @yikes-matey @dyor @dagdrommers-blog @s0ftd3m0n @itzel17 @qualitymugghostrebel @oh-chuck-help-me @honeybee-cherie @cocoa-creampuff @asphodelshare @moonspaxe @ecwrenn @lilablosom

#love in the midst of doomsday #aidan gallagher #the umbrella academy #five #five hargreeves

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sebs-anxiety-and-insanity · 4 years

Text

Drake & Cal

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Drake smiled looking over himself in the mirror. Baby blue shirt and black pants, his glasses had a small tint of black around the edges, complimenting his silver eyes. His green hair pushed to the side. He rocked on his feet a moment before picking up his bag, quickly heading down stairs. "Now, Dray, sit down and eat. And do take out the jewelry before your father gets here." Drake rolls his eyes grabbing a piece of toast. "Can't mom, I'll be late, and today I start my job so.... bye!" And with that Drake raced out the door. He sat at the bench and waited for the bus that would take him to his destination. He sighs pulling out his phone to scroll through tumblr.

A few minutes later the bus arrives, and Drake eagerly rushes in, scanning the seats before picking one beside his best friend. Their name was Bea, they had been best friends since they were kids, And knew everything about each other, so of course, they were the best choice. Bea still had their black hair, and dashing personality. "You ready?" Drake asked, Bea just now noticing his presence. "Whoa- Jesus- Don't do that!" Drake chuckles sliding his bag underneath his seat. "'Glowsticks- need I say more'?" Drake gestures to Bea's shirt. Bea looks up from their phone again. "Need I say more?" They slid their phone into their pocket. "So, what job do you think we'll get?" Drake smiles slightly bringing his right leg up to his chest. "I don't know, probably some fast food joint, it's what most teenagers get." They nod their head turning so that their back is against the window. "Yeah, probably.... but what if we get an exciting job? It's not unheard of!!" Drake rolls his eyes. "Your idea of exciting is the possibility of dying, but not dying. And while that's all good and all, I'd never hear the end of getting stuck with that kinda job." Bea punches his arm lightly. "It's not getting 'stuck' it's getting picked! You know the job picks you!!" Drake sighs. "You always did believe in that didn't you?" Bea leans forward, pointing in his general direction. "So did you," they leaned back laying their legs over Drake's. "And still do if I recall correctly." Drake drops his arms over Bea's legs, scoffing. "Yeah, don't remind me." A loud ding was heard throughout the bus, followed by the driver. "Its your driver, here, I advise you to get ready to exit the bus, uh, we are nearing our destination." Drake swatted at Bea's legs reaching down for his bag after they moved to get their own bag. "Well, I'm excited." Drake stands up setting his leg on the seat. "Yeah, well, I'm not." Bea rolls their eyes. "Alright grumpy pants, calm down." Drake scoffs as the bus comes to a halt. The doors slowly opened. "Alrighty, ladies, gents, and all you lovely people, we have reached our destination, please exit the bus, and watch your step!" Drake pushes off the chair and exits the bus, slowing his pace so Bea can catch up. In front of him was 'The Workplace Chooser', they couldn't choose a better name? It was huge. The glass windows reached the ceiling in the center of the building, the sides went on for a while, before they stopped and buses filled the next spots, getting ready to take the people to their new job. Bea nudged his shoulder, pulling their hair into a loose ponytail. "C'mon, slow poke." Drake picked up his pace, watching the fountains as they displayed the show of water. Bea ran up and held open the door, bowing when Drake got close enough. Drake walked into the building, taking in his surroundings. When you walk in there is a grand staircase, at either sides of the stairs there are purple plants. Many people were rushing by looking for their bus. Bea rolled their eyes dragging Drake up the stairs.

Drake groaned, not that anyone could hear his frustration, as the room was full to the brim with other teenagers. But he still let Bea drag him around. The room was divided into three sections, no apparent categories, and they all faced a big stage. Bea dragged him to the back row in the middle section. They both sat down watching the other teens closely. Soon enough the lights dimmed and the noise settled. A man in a suit walked up to the podium in the center of the stage. "Hello, future workers of good!!!! I know you are so excited for your jobs, correct?" Assorted cheers erupted through the crowds, and Drake slid further back into his chair. The man smiled, looking down seemingly at a peice of paper. "Alright, so this year we are going in groups of four, and we will start with the important jobs first." Drakes phone buzzed, sighing he sat up pulling out his phone. There was a new text. 'Has your brother been called yet?' Drake typed a quick 'no' before going back to listening to the speaker. "-t, and next is the helpers!!! We have just four of those in this year. Are you ready to see who these brave men, women, and people are?" More cheers erupted through the room, Bea being the loudest. Drake flinched, elbowing Bea lightly. "Alrighty! First up is, Seth Banks, Catlin Bea, Tiffany Grace," Bea nudged Drake grinning wickedly. "And Drake Brins! A round of applause for these great teens who have been chosen! Please find the bus outside your exit!"

Drake was shocked. So shocked he didn't notice being pulled out of the room. He snapped out of it shortly after being slapped a few times. A blonde girl was standing before him smiling sweetly, wearing a grey sweater, with shorts. "Hey there! You alright?" Drake looked around spotting Bea walking towards the group with their bags. Drake nodded and started to get up. The girl helped him to his feet. "I'm Tiffany, she/her pronouns!" Drake smiled. "Uh, Drake, he/him pronouns." Bea handed Drake his stuff before turning to the other person in the group, wearing a long sleeve shirt with jeans. Their hair was blood red. Bea looked at me before stepping closer to the individual. "That's Seth, he/him pronouns." Bea nodded, and Seth turned to us. "I'm fine, let's just go." It looked like Seth wiped his face before picking up his bags. "Okay, let's go!" Tiffany picked up her bag and walked with us. "So.... we are gonna be roommates?" Bea nodded excitedly. "Yeah! I know all about this job! Except you know the confidential things." Tiffany nodded, holding open the glass doors for us. I nodded, "Yeah, they were really hoping for this job." Bea nodded. "Ever since I knew it existed!!" We entered the bus and chose seats in the back. I pushed my bag under the seat as Seth sat down next to me, Bea and Tiffany a few rows up, on the other side of the bus. "Hey, Seth, how are you?" Seth chuckled a bit. "Like I said I'm fine, were you even listening?" I shrugged. "Yeah, but just making sure." Seth turned to me, scanning over my face before he gets closer to me. "You okay?" He asks laying his head on my shoulder. "Yeah, I guess." He scoffed dropping his bag on the floor. "Yeah, and I'm the queen of England!" "I just wasn't expecting this job, now, I've told you my problem, how about you?" He tensed as the bus started pulling out, and heading to their new work place. "Only if you want to of course," he nodded. "Yeah, thanks." He pulls out a pair of headphones and starts some music. "You wanna hear?" "Hm? Oh- yeah, sure." He hands out a ear bud, which I take and put in my ear, looking out the window as music played. "You have great taste in music." Seth nods crossing his arms. I lean on the window, watching the scenery. This is gonna be a long ride isn't it?

"Alrighty!! We have arrived at our destination!!! Congratulations, helpers!" Rolling my eyes I hand Seth back his earbud reaching for my bag. We all filed out of the bus as other buses did the same, the grand building standing in front of us, mainly secluded by miles and miles of trees, and what seemed to be a beautiful mansion, a bit older for most peoples taste, but I loved it. The fountain in front of it was overgrown, and the fences looked like they had been placed way after the house was built. We walked up to the doors and waited. A different group stood beside me, there was a boy, angry looking, like he didnt wanna be here. I snapped my head back to the doors so he wouldnt know I was staring. All of the sudden he punched my shoulder lightly. "I'm Markus, what about you?" Clearing my throat I nervously turn towards Markus. "Uh Drake, I really hope no problems arise, it is our first day." The boy rolled his eyes, dropping his arm around my shoulders. "yeah, yeah, hey listen, we should stick together, I got your back you got mine. You look like the type to deal some damage when needed." I pushed him off me. "No, I dont know if I can trust you. And even so, you dont look like the type to keep to yourself for even a second." He scoffed. "Yeah, okay buddy. I bet." I rolled my eyes. "Whatever, I am the fifth precinct's leaders son. I'm no smart guy, but those clothes look like their fifth precinct. So watch yourself buddy." I scoff turning back to the doors as someone in a powdered suit walks out with a clipboard. "Hello helpers! Your ranks are posted in your quarters; Be wise my dear helpers, you have been chosen. Do not let us, or your precinct down. This is a great day for all of you." The lady looked at the clipboard for a moment before looking up. "Welcome to MCOU."

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

Hope you liked the first chapter/part!

Tag list (you can ask to be added or removed):

@irei-art

#Drake & Cal #hope you liked it

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gastcrrific · 5 years

Text

fifth member - chapter 1: queen

a/n: i'm pretty excited for this one. hope you enjoy!

so just to note a disclaimer: history itself is connected but they're not really precise! what would be true will be the more known events (i.e. rainbow '74, live aid, some various anecdotes, etc. etc.)

^^^ i may be putting that to every chapter of the story as well.

contains: roger being an annoying lil shit (don't worry it'll go away p soon), a bit of tension.

=====

૮ɦαρƭε૨ 1: φµεεɳ

1972, 12:50 PM

A week had passed since the last performance and since when the two of you met the band. You were getting along pretty well with the three and so was Deaky.

Everyone in the studio are currently studying their part, Brian and John rehearsing their chords, Roger testing the tempo, meanwhile you and Freddie are discussing about your part.

"So, Y/N, there won't be any piano present in this song, but, you can be part of the backing vocals." Freddie stated, handing you a handwritten copy of the lyrics.

It reads... Liar.

"You can pair with me for a while, since you haven't known the melody yet."

You nod, "Of course!" and found yourself doing a vocal range with him. Thankfully, you were a fast learner and got everything right. One thing you were missing is that you didn't have your own mic.

Freddie gathers everyone to rehearse his newly planned set list, as you followed.

He had already taught you your choreography together with him, which makes it look like both of you are the main focus of the audience.

Finding another mic stand, you try to adjust it to your height, yet one of the clips broke and left you holding the half of it. "This is absolutely fine, is it?" You awkwardly asked, as the singer comes in with the same equipment. "It probably is, B..." Deaky chimed in with your nickname, smiling as he rests his hands on top of his bass. You let out a small laugh and lightly bit your lip from smiling.

B is a running nickname for you that he always used through the years of your own friendship with him. He found it really pleasing and soft to call you that.

Oh how I wish she was mine... He swooned in his thoughts, his cheeks getting flushed.

You were completely nervous about this, even though he was told by Freddie that you and him will be by his side to sing during the bridge of Liar.

Nothing awkward happened, thankfully. The whole rehearsal went smoothly.

"Thank god we finally did it flawlessly!" Freddie flicks his hair, placing his mic stand carefully on top of a large amplifier. Roger huffs his breath out, throwing his drumsticks in the air and catching it in his hands. Brian sets his instrument down and so does Deaky. You also placed your mic stand next to Freddie's, but it had a different color.

You follow your best friend to make your way to the mixing room, but suddenly you didn't see the wire that's hanging from the amplifier. Ever since your habit has grown, you've told your clumsy self, "Once you embarrass yourself, there's no going back." majority of your own accidents always ends up to that. But this one doesn't seem to go that way.

"Oh!–" You exclaim, holding onto someone's arms, unexpecting the impact. Catching your breath and looking up, both of you had an astonished expression.

It was John.

He's holding you in his arms, few inches away from your faces. If it had gotten more closer, your lips would be meeting with his.

A heated tension fills up between the two of you.

Cheeks reddening, you slightly pulled away and stood up gently, "T-thanks, Deaks. God– I should be more careful next time..." Muttering the last part, he softly rubs your shoulder with a reassuring, yet shy smile. "It's okay Y/N... You're welcome." He hummed in the most adorable way possible as he helped you up, and made your heart skip beats.

Witnessing this endearing moment, Roger in the mixing room gives a fishy look at the curly haired guitarist, who's clearly unamused. "No. This is clearly none of your business. They're just friends remember?"

"Yeah but what if they're friends with benefits?" The blonde nagged, causing Brian to gasp in disgust.

The lead vocalist playfully slapped the drummer's shoulder, "Roger, get your fucking mind out of the gutter!" he had his arms crossed and a smug look. "Okay! Okay! I'll stop!"

You and Deaky have finally set foot inside the mixing room just as when the chaotic blonde had gone quiet. Sitting at the velvet textured couch, there was still a tiny amount of tension between the two.

That was your first time getting your clumsiness caught by him. He was never present when you had small accidents, but it sure did felt like you had been egged in the face.

Looking down, nervously fumbling with your own hands and your heartbeat pacing faster, you stutter, "I'm really sorry, John, I always avoid to be this way but I just basically embarrassed myself–"

Suddenly he raises his hand to pull you close and rub your back. Deaky gives you a comfortable grin, "Hey, B, I said it's okay.. You don't have to apologize." and finally, he warmly pulls you into a hug, burying his face to your neck, smelling your fragrant lavender cologne. Startled, you slowly wrap your arms around him, hugging back. "Thank you..."

As you two broke apart, Freddie had let out a noise of excitement which made you look at him. "Tonight, 7:30 PM, at a bar. We should be preparing ourselves soon!" He announced, earning a nod from everyone. "So, you know the drill."

"Roger, be attentive. Don't stare at the audience for too long!" The drummer nods and simply replies with "Alright!"

"Brian, double check your strings and let your inner rockstar out!" The guitarist gently tugs a grin, nodding.

"Deaky, remember to bust out your bass lines. The bassist needs more appreciation!" Your best friend smiled sweetly and nodded as he was flattered.

"And Y/N, you're always one to count on. Be graceful with me onstage!" You can't help but happily smile and giggle at his enthusiasm. "Yes, sir!" You playfully saluted.

6:55 PM, at a well-known bar...

Your band is queued next right after some light polka band is done performing for the audience, everyone's excited, except for one.

Deaky.

You had been noticing him taking deep breaths every minute or so. He tried to seek comfort from you, but to no avail, he never did. Being the good friend you are, you called out for him.

"Hey, Deaks. Everything's gonna go well with our performance, alright? If you think it's gonna go badly, it sure won't. I promise." He listens, calming down. "All you have to do is focus." You smiled fondly, and gave him a warm hug.

Just as the hug ended, the speaker outside had called for your group. "The next performers will be: Queen!"

"Let's kill it, darlings." Freddie mumbled loud enough to hear.

Stepping up on the stage, he greets everyone in the audience and started introducing every single one of you. "And these two lovelies are new ones! Meet Y/N L/N and John Deacon!" He waved and so you did, some people in the audience already likes you and the others despise you.

After the introduction got out of the way, the show has begun. It was only 4 songs so it wasn't too long. Nothing did go wrong in fact. The longer the songs progressed, the more wild the audience got. This was more than what you expected, and so did everyone else in the band.

"Thank you and good evening!"

8:04 PM

Right when the show has been done, all of you are finally in the van, a ride on the way to Freddie's flat. The conversation that he opened was about having to release an album.

"Where would we be getting the money for it then?" Roger stated, going to a sharp turn to right. "How much do you think this van is worth?" The singer questioned, and left the blonde to wonder. "Maybe we can discuss this later, Fred. We'll figure this out."

Reaching the destination, you and Deaky stay outside the front door, just realizing that your shared flat is just a few stops away.

"Deaky and Y/N, why don't you two come in?" He offers, but your friend protested, "It's fine, Freddie, our flat is just two blocks away." You also added "I think we could move there soon and live with the rest of you three." and smiled. "Ah, I see. Stay safe out there dearies!" The two of you bid goodbye, and headed to your shelter.

Finally getting inside, you huffed out your breath, decided to march straight to your own bed and flop on it face first. John quietly giggles while changing to his usual sleepwear, "Missed your bed, hm?" You rotate yourself so you lie down on your back to see him. "Definitely! Actually hold on let me change for a moment." You stood up carefully and changed to comfortable F/C colored pajamas. Not a second you're already back on your bed.

Even with numerous times you've seen Deaky only in his jogging pants and topless, you never stopped blushing. But eventually you manage to hide it from him. You turned off the lamp by your bedside table.

"Deaks, should we start moving at Freddie's tomorrow? It's the weekend tomorrow anyway, isn't it?"

"About that, I think we probably should... We have plenty of time to pack our clothes and other important things in the morning."

"Okay, noted. Goodnight, John!" You softly chuckled.

"Goodnight, Y/N!" He gently laughed.

What else would happen tomorrow?

—

@ixchel-9275

#fifth member #fifth member series #queen #john deacon x reader #john deacon #deaky #fics #freddie mercury #brian may #roger taylor

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ashe-cat · 5 years

Text

Thunderstorms Ch. Prequel

Tempest

So here it is, the first chapter to my first fanfic. I’m no writer so if anyone has any advice for me I’ll gladly take it! If youre a Dragon age fan you probably be able to understand whats being said! You can also read it here on AO3.

Also shout to friend @karumasa for helping me when she could, and also shout my favorite orc writers, @morphinetune @dust-bun @seventyfiveapples and @bonnietakesnosh-t . After writing this chapter I have stronger appreciation for what you guys do as writer, writing isn’t as easy as it seems!

It has always amazed me how quickly a person's life can change; almost like a thunderstorm. It starts off small, but then slowly builds into a crescendo of powerful emotions. Building upon every life changing event, till finally reaching one's pinnacle of serenity and understanding.

My great grandmother once told me that thunderstorms brought our family luck. She said with storms, they brought rains that could wash away all of our sadness, our pain, and all our troubles. They were our sign of clarity and rebirth.

My rebirth….

……………………………………………………

…………………….

………

…

Rain is believed to have a calming effect on people; from the spine tingling sensation when it hits the body just right, to the way it's soft thrum lulls the spirit. Sadly it seemed that the downpour outside of the car could not even begin to quell the storm of emotions brewing in a young mother heart. Her heart felt more cold and dreary than the starless night that she and her companion were driving through. The only thing that gave her solace and anchored her to reality was the shallow breathing of a child. Her child. She often found herself staring and holding her own breath, every time there pause between breaths she couldn't the sinking feeling in her gut

wondering “will this be my child last breath!?”.

“She's going to be alright Aminata, she's stable now.” As if a spell had been lifted, Aminata instantly turned to whom the deep velvety voice belonged to.

“I'm worried for you, love. You both have a long journey head and you haven't slept since we started.”

Offering him a small smile she finally turned back to face the window “I can't… I keep have this feeling she won't make it through night. Are sure she's alright Fenrir?”

As if to calm even his rising doubt, he briefly viewed the child's condition through the rear mirror.

“I'm sure, and the crystal will ensure she's stable until we reached the checkpoint. Once we reached the house I'll finish the healing process. He replied, taking hold of her and giving a chaste kiss to her knuckles. “Until then rest my love, we only have an hour left”

Letting out a soft whimper Aminata slowly allowed herself to succumb to exhaustion.

………………………………………………………..

…………………..

…….

Aminata wasn't sure what woke her first, it was either the SUV coming to a stop or the labored breathing coming from the back seat. Whatever it was she knew without a doubt something wasn't right.

“Fenrir!!”

“Shhh… It's okay Ami, we're here.” Fenrir quickly replied, trying to calm her by taking her hand and bringing it to his lips. “Grab your things, I'll grab da'len and bring her to the house.”

Before she was completely out of his reach, Fenrir pulled her into a quick embrace.

“I know this is happening all too quickly and I can only imagine how frighten you must be but… Var lath vir suledin… I promise.”

Moved beyond words all Aminata could do was tighten her embrace on him. Letting him go, she gathered her things and headed towards the house. After watching her leave Fenrir finally made his way to the SUV’s back passenger door, opening the door it was clear to him that the child inside was deteriorating fast. Time was of the essence and he needed to move the child to house now in order to treat her. With the utmost care he carefully gathered the child in his arms and began heading towards to the house.

For being only a short distance from the vehicle to the house, time itself seem to stretch on for eternity. They had been traveling for a better part of a week, and all along the way they were met with some setbacks. Even with all of those setbacks none of them felt as difficult as this short walk.

All Fenrir wanted to do was breath a sigh of relief that the journey was over, but that was then furthest thing from the truth. So many emotions filtered through his mind, the prominent being guilt and dread.

The sense of trepidation within him was so strong, that Fenrir swore one could hear the thundering of his heart. He was so overwhelmed with all possibilities the next few hours had in store for him.. and his da'len.

His poor, sweet da'len. She was just shy of her fifth birthday, she was already shaping to be a beautiful and intelligent woman. Looking at her now though, one could only see a mere husk of her former self.It made Fenrir's heart ache to witness her in this state. Skin that once a rich and warm as fresh coffee with cream, was now more of a ashen gray with black splotches scattered about, and those beautiful. Eyes that once held color that could rival any dusk sunset; now looking upon them was like looking at the reflection of the dark grey void of despair locked within his heart.

Lost in his inner turmoil, that Fenrir barely noticed small hands grazing the ends of his shoulder length hair. Large sunken grey eyes stared up at him, and it took all of his willpower not to break down on the spot.

“Da’len you're awake!!” he exclaimed gently, while moving a tassel of curls. “Everything is going to be okay soon, I promise.”

He was so captivated with those eyes that he hadn't even realized he had taken the last few steps towards the house. Tearing his eyes from the child he became aware of a smartly dressed woman waiting for them on the porch.

“Fen'Harel ma ghilana. It's time Fenrir… are you ready?” the woman asked quietly, all while her gaze quickly flickered between him and the child.

“Ghil-Dirthalen. I am, but..” he replied, glancing quickly down at the child only to stare back at the woman. “Give me a moment.. Please.”

With a small smile and a nod, the woman turned and receded back into the shadows of the house.

This was it, there was no place to go but forward. The next few hours held no certainties of anything promising. So with these scarce minutes he wanted them to mean something.

“Ma vhenan.”

Recognizing that he was addressing her, the child stopped her play with his hair and gave him her full attention.

“Thing a are going to very different from now, but I want you to know that no matter what I… As latha ma vhenan, and I always will.”

For being just a child it was amazing to see just how intuitive she was. She may not fully understand what was going on, but she knew well enough that something wasn't right. Her large eyes instantly swelled with tears and Fenrir did his best to prevent them from falling.

“Shhh, vhenan, everything is going to be fine, I promise. Remember I'm your abo, and I'll do anything to protect you.”

Out of his peripheral vision he could see that someone was once again in the doorway. It was time. With a heavy sigh, Fenrir gathered the child as close as possible to him. If these were truly their last moments, then he wanted to able to remember the way she felt in his arms and the way she smelled.

“I love you and I always will my little Cerrid…………

………………

“DWEN! CERRIDWEN!! CERRIDWEN ATIENA ANDUNË!!! Honey it's time to wake up!!” came a annoyed feminine voice, muffled by the bedroom door.

Letting out a long groan, Cerridwen rolled in bed and sat up to face the door. Not even bothering to turn off the obnoxious artificial crowing coming from her phone.

“You can come in momma.” She replied releasing a long yawn in the process.

Walking in and clearly annoyed with her daughter, Aminata picked up the phone and promptly silenced the offensive alarm.

“I swear Cerri if you're not going to wake up when your alarm goes off why bother setting one. The stupid thing been going off for… Cerri, love are you alright? Why are you crying?” Aminata asked, her face and voice instantly softening when saw her daughter's face.

“Huh” touching her face, Cerri became aware that she had indeed been crying, and pretty hard if her swollen eyelids were anything to go by.

“ Love did something happened, are you pain? Is your chest bothering you again?”Aminata asked tenderly, seating herself on the bed next to Cerri and slowly wiping away her tears.

“No, I'm fine mom I just had a weird dream.”

“What did you dream about?

Thinking for a moment, her expression went from blank to utter confusion. Looking at her mom's concerned face, Cerridwen opened her mouth as if to say something, to only then close it and turn towards the window. Watching the first few drops of rain hit the glass.

“That's just it mom…”

I don't remember...

#cerridwen #bright elf #bright oc #netflix bright #bright #bright orcs #my fanfic stuff #thunderstorms fic #fenrir #aminata #orcs #monster boyfriend #elf #half elf #protagonist poc #thunderstorms

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ifishouldvanish · 7 years

Text

To Be Found (1/6)

An aromantic and asexual character study of Rumplestiltskin for @needcanonasexualcharacters

PART ONE: MILAH

CHAPTER SUMMARY: Rumple navigates being in a loveless marriage of convenience. RATING: T WORDS: 1,969 [ Read on AO3 ]

“How is this?” Milah asked, holding out a length of the yarn she’d been working on.

Rumplestiltskin looked at his wife and smiled. “You’re getting much better.” He said, sitting beside her at the wheel. “You see how smooth it is?” He explained, tracing a finger along the thread. “You’ve a few lumps, but I can tell you’re getting your tension down, and that’ll only improve with more practice.”

She pressed sheer lips into a thin line for a moment, her eyes outside the window of the hovel. “Is it good enough to sell at the market, do you think?”

He inspected her work more closely and nodded. “Aye. I believe it passes muster.” Her eyes darted back to the yarn and a little smile crept across her face. Rumplestiltskin watched on as she began working the wheel again, seeming a little more sure of herself this time.

This was easy. He enjoyed it, even– sharing his craft and talent with another person, teaching and passing it on to them. Living in the shadow of his father’s reputation didn’t leave Rumplestiltskin with many things to feel proud of– but he was a gifted spinner, and in this area alone he could feel content with himself.

He knew their marriage was merely a thing of necessity– but they all were, weren't they? The women in his village needed husbands to provide for them, the men needed wives to rear their children– children who in the end would care for them both as they grew old and weak.

After the news of their marriage had circulated throughout their small village, Rumplestiltskin had come to find that people treated him differently. Less the outcast, more the welcome member of society. He blended in, the neighbors greeted him with polite smiles instead of scowls, he was invited to games of cards when he stopped by the tavern. In this capacity, he enjoyed the role of husband. It made him feel useful, wanted, valid, and with purpose.

He didn’t care for the comments some of the other men made about Milah and his marriage bed, but he quickly learned to brush them off by feigning agreement with a chuckle and a nod. It was in this capacity that his role as husband felt like a weight on his chest. Something that smothered and gnawed at him.

To not marry was to die poor and alone.

That was the mantra he had repeated to himself from the moment Milah’s father introduced the two of them. No one wanted their daughter to marry the village coward– and while it hurt to be cast out as such, Rumplestiltskin found a certain comfort in it the knowledge that it was a repellant. People couldn’t leave him, give up on him, reject him as his father had, if they never bothered with him in the first place. However, as time went on– as he saw the younger people in his village being paired off– he knew a life by himself wasn’t sustainable. At least, not in this world. And so when the opportunity to court a woman presented itself, he told himself he had to take it.

He supposed Milah was an attractive enough woman, with her raven hair and blue eyes. But to his relief, she seemed about as enthusiastic about the match as he was. She smiled at the appropriate times, behaved the way a betrothed woman ought to, but otherwise, she kept her distance from him. He knew she didn’t care for him– marriages in their village weren’t about something as frivolous as love and passion, after all– and the fact comforted him in the same way that his reputation did. It was like a shield, a thick blanket, something that protected him and made him feel safe.

Despite that knowledge, the week leading up to their wedding, Rumplestiltskin hadn’t slept. He’d tossed and turned, visions of their wedding night clutching his heart in a vice grip, leaving him hands cold and clammy and his nerves tightly wound.

To not marry was to die poor and alone .

He’d fulfil his role as husband, and with any luck, Milah would be with child and he’d be spared from having to repeat the act for the foreseeable future. Few were the men in his village who hadn't made some comments to him about the thrill of bedding one's wife, but to Rumplestiltskin, the thought loomed over him, clouding his thoughts and casting a shadow over his days. It seemed more like a chore he just wanted to get over with.

Perhaps you might enjoy it after all, he’d dared to hope.

And so on their wedding night, he’d played the part– his body a willing enough participant despite the apathy in his spirit.

He wasn't sure what he had expected, but he'd felt ill afterward. Not with a cough, or an ache, or a rash– but with a dry mouth, continued sleeplessness, and the constant replaying of the night's events in his mind's eye. He'd avoided Milah for weeks, unable to stomach the sight of her, and felt a unique sort of contempt for his own anatomy whenever he dressed, or bathed, or used the chamber pot. He supposed it was well enough though, as she seemed to keep her distance as well. Perhaps it was normal.

It was the spinning wheel that ended the stalemate. It was his duty to teach her, and she proved to be a fast learner. It was easy to ignore the distance he was putting between them when he was preoccupied with demonstrating the proper way to tease and comb the wool. Over time, he could muster a fondness– an affection, almost– for the way she furrowed her brows as she plucked bits of grass and debris out of the wool, or the sharp exhale she did when she’d lose her momentum at the wheel, causing the thread to snap or become lumpy.

She was determined to learn and be good at something, and he admired that about her.

“I think I do better if I feed it in like this,” Milah said, pulling back on the wool with her right hand, rather than nudging it toward the orifice with her left. It wasn't the way he handled the wool himself, but her movements seemed far more fluid and graceful now than they did when she handled it the way he had taught her.

Rumplestiltskin nodded. “Aye. Whatever works best for you.”

“I think–” she glanced up at him and that was all it took for her to lose her rhythm. “God dammit!”

He winced and darted his eyes back toward the bobbin, where the thread had snapped. The fifth time today.

“I can't do this.” Milah sighed, slouching her shoulders and dropping the wool into her lap. “Not like you.”

Rumplestiltskin stared at her blankly for a moment, the corners of his mouth pinched as he thought what to say to her. In truth, she was probably right. The chances of her ever being as proficient as he was were slim, but he did still believe she could get good enough.

“You can't sell this.” She said. “I'm just wasting all of your wool.” She made an exasperated gesture at the bobbin and rolled her eyes. “Look at it– it’s rubbish!’

He looked and frowned. She'd been doing solid work, truly. But by now he knew her well enough to know how thin her patience was. How little it took for her to lose interest.

Whenever he grew discouraged as a boy, the spinsters who'd raised him would lay a comforting hand on his shoulder, or wrap him in a hug. Plant a kiss on the crown of his head to let him know that it was okay. But in this context, the context of husband and wife, those gestures came with an added sentiment he didn't want to express, for he felt an inexplicable aversion to where they might lead.

He cleared his throat. “No, no. You're doing quite well.” He said. “You've much improved. Just... try to stay focused on the wheel. It'll be some time before you're able to carry a conversation and spin at the same time. Go on, try again.”

She closed her eyes and took a deep breath. “Okay,” she exhaled, starting to feed the wool through again. She struggled to get it started– as she often did– and with each failed attempt, her movements became more hasty and erratic.

Let's take a break. The words were on the tip of his tongue as he watched her grow more and more frustrated. But this– spinning– was the only time he felt useful, the only time things between them felt somewhat right. He hated to end their lessons on a low note, because it left Milah in a sour mood, if not a morose one– and he never knew how to behave around her or make it better.

He learned quickly, the sort of things she might expect after he comforted her– a kiss, an embrace, a coupling before bed– and he wished to avoid them. He wouldn't be in the mood, and he could tell her heart was never in it, anyway. He knew she didn't love him, and it vexed him that she continued to try. After all, shouldn't she be relieved that her husband didn't make any demands of her body? But instead, she seemed to take offense. That it was due to some fault he'd found in her.

He supposed he had to give her credit, however. She was playing her part, still committed to her role as spouse in all the areas that he shied away from. In this way, he considered her a far stronger person than he ever was. No one in this village married for love, yet he seemed to be the only one who couldn't play the part anyway.

“Let me–” he said, reaching for the wool on her hands so he could get the thread started for her.

“I just can't do it. I don't know why, but I can't–”

“Because you're getting impatient.” He said bitterly, beginning to feel frustrated himself. He took a deep breath, refusing to let his emotions get the better of him. “We can work on this part later. Just focus on spinning and getting your tension right.”

She rolled her eyes and took the wool back from him once he'd gotten the thread started. “Sorry.”

“It's no matter.” He said, getting up and putting on a tight-lipped smile. “I… I'll see if the next batch of wool is dry yet.”

“I checked it this morning.” She muttered. “It's still wet.”

“Oh?” He frowned, feeling his heart sink in his chest. “Well, i-it's a nice day out. The sun might've helped, ye know?”

She shook her head and shrugged before starting the wheel again. “Yeah. Maybe.”

He was relieved to find that the wool was, though not completely dry, dry enough for him to start teasing. He would have an excuse to get away from her until she found her concentration again. Then they'd wrap things up, and she'd be in a well enough mood by then that he wouldn't have to concern himself with making her feel better.

He often felt as though he was walking on eggshells with Milah. He wanted their marriage to work. Wanted a family, children. But certain things didn't come naturally to him, and he wasn't sure he even wanted them to. Whatever distance there was between them, he'd created himself. Any attempts she'd made to close that distance, he'd pulled away from.

Marriage wasn't about love and happiness, though. It was about necessity. Perhaps he only needed more time. Perhaps he still could learn. Because the alternative would be to die poor and alone.

#rumplestiltskin fic #ace!Rumple #ouat

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