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#Yes the cat gets his own tag...he's very important!
payte · 11 months
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In the early morning, Winnie found a secluded part of the trails where she could do some yoga. Though still wobbly, she’s been getting better at it! Just as she was finishing her routine, an adorable, fluffy cat crossed her path - she took it as a sign that her day was going to be great!
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umbrify · 11 months
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hello i saw u tagged jimmy solidarity on that "free my man he did none of that. he did a bunch of other shit though" post and i am incredibly compelled by the implications here. please may i have an essay on the subject
YOU MAY.
Okay so we’re gonna be specifically talking about Empires SMP Season 2 Jimmy (henceforth, Jimmy,) and the way he conducts himself, how those actions reflect on him, versus how he sees himself (and how the fandom sees him in turn). Welcome to my Ted Talk.
The most important thing to understand about Jimmy is that he lies. He lies about everything, and convinces himself that his lie is true to the point where he really thinks it is. Take, for example, a moment in Sausage’s episode 41 [full exchange from 9:10 - 19:37] where Jimmy kills Sausage, and then when Sausage, followed by fWhip, return to Tumble Town to discuss the murder, Jimmy blatantly lies about the altercation to fWhip, claiming “[Sausage] came over, and he assaulted me, fWhip!” Jimmy insists that it was Sausage who physically started it, despite that being completely untrue. Jimmy then goes on to deny having killed Sausage Sausage at all, sounding affronted at the idea and demanding to see the player head that drops on death. fWhip asks how many levels Sausage has, which is none, and Jimmy claims that Sausage must have used all his experience. Jimmy denies and lies, and when fWhip goes looking for Sausage’s things, finding them in Jimmy’s storage, Jimmy acts shocked, saying “I think I’m being set up! […] I’m gonna leave this conversation, you do what you gotta do, but I don’t think I’m the bad guy here.” As if Jimmy didn’t explicitly kill Sausage moments ago!! As if it isn’t his fault!!!
And the problem here, the core problem, is that so many people just… believe him. They take Jimmy’s words at face value and assume that he’s always a reliable narrator in his own stories, despite the fact that it couldn’t be further from the case. The issue is less that people assign New and Different problems to Jimmy, more that they strip him of any wrongdoing at all, making him out to be some sad little pathetic wet cat who didn’t deserve it. And— don’t get me wrong, he is extremely sad, but he also did it to himself.
I think one of the more interesting ways to illustrate this, is to talk about the way Jimmy perceives himself. From the start of the season, he always insists on being called “The Sheriff.” He’s not Jimmy, he’s The Sheriff, and throughout the season, he can be seen constantly insisting upon and chasing after that title. He wants respect— or, his version of respect. What he really wants is a yes man. This difference can very clearly be seen in the way he treats the two deputies he had throughout the season.
When fWhip was the deputy, it’s because he wanted to be. He sought Jimmy out because he wanted to be Jimmy’s right hand man, and Jimmy let him. fWhip consistently referred to Jimmy as The Sheriff, upholding Jimmy’s version of the laws as best he could. And, there really is something to be said about the fact that fWhip, as a goblin, inherently didn’t understand the concept of arbitrary laws, or that sort of morality at all, and was only one, upholding it because he cared about Jimmy, but two, treating the laws as Jimmy treated them— i.e, making a shrine for that which Jimmy made a church for, but that’s a whole separate essay that I want to write at some point. Either way, he was good to Jimmy, though their time together was short. He made Jimmy a home away from home in Gobland [fWhip episode 8 timestamp 20:28] and helped Jimmy win the court trial by serving as his lawyer in the case against Joel [Trial best seen in Jimmy’s episode 10 starts at 3:03]. After fWhip was fired, he went around Tumble Town noting down a bunch of “laws” that Jimmy was breaking. I wrote a whole post about this set of interactions already [here] but the short version is this: In fWhip’s episode 12 [5:54], he goes around and marks down all the laws that he’s saying Jimmy is breaking around Tumble Town. […] Of the seven instances that fWhip writes down, SIX of them almost directly relate to Jimmy not taking good care of himself or his empire. To me, it almost reads more like he cares about Jimmy, and is worried about him.
All this to say, that fWhip didn’t Respect The Sheriff as much as he Cared About Jimmy. And that’s an important distinction— he cared about Jimmy, the person. He had this whole veneer of respecting the laws— laws that he didn’t really understand— because he cared about Jimmy. And Jimmy fired him for a prank— one that wasn’t specifically targeted or malicious— because he saw that as Disrespecting The Sheriff. He didn’t want someone who Cared About Jimmy, he wanted someone who Respected The Sheriff. And fWhip wasn’t that.
Enter Scar.
During the Hermitcraft crossover, Scar started gunning for the position as deputy because he wanted the shiny deputy badge. That was it, that was the reason, and Scar acted accordingly. Everything was about acting like he Respected The Sheriff, even when he was blatantly breaking one of the core laws, wearing another player’s hat— both the sheriff hat [Jimmy episode 19 4:07] as well as trading away a sheriff hat, and being seen wearing one of Scott’s Chromia hats [Jimmy episode 22 14:27]. In this episode, Scar backhandedly compliments Jimmy, “oh, you’re just a… cute big guy, aren’t you?” to which Jimmy seems uncertain, asking “I’m real big, right?” to which Scar says he is. Jimmy then asks him about the Chromia hat Scar wears, and Scar tells him that he traded one of the sheriff hats to Scott. Jimmy gets upset at Scar, but before he can get properly mad, Scar distracts him by showing off a new section of Tumble Town that he made. Scar wears the mask of respect for just long enough to get the badge. When Jimmy gives him the badge, he says he has something else that he wants to give Scar as well. “I have found something real special for you, real special.” Scar says “I already got something special, this badge.” Jimmy says “you mean our friendship?” Which Scar dubiously agrees to. This is the last time Jimmy sees Scar before the hermits leave— Scar got what he wanted, and that was all. And yet, Jimmy hired him, because Scar put on the show. Scar was his yes man, Scar Respected The Sheriff, even if he didn’t Care About Jimmy.
He does it to himself, Jimmy does. He pushes away anyone that tries to care about him as a person, and surrounds himself with people that will be his yes men, his little sidekicks, anyone that holds the sheriff title in high regard. It’s why he takes so well to the Old Sheriff, who treats the sheriff title with the same reverence that he does, respecting the title of sheriff without actually respecting Jimmy much at all.
The thing about Jimmy is that he causes his own problems, and they’re all his fault. Yes he is crushingly lonely, and filled with self hatred, but he actively surrounds himself with it. It’s not that people are just inherently mean to him, he is almost asking them to be, by pushing away anyone that seems to care about him as a person.
I think, as my final note here, I wanna bring up a moment from Jimmy’s finale, episode 38. He and the Old sheriff, as they’re making their way to the Nether portal, discuss how fWhip only ever referred to himself as goblin fWhip, never as king. Jimmy says “I don’t think he ever held himself to the regard of being a king, and that— d’you know what? That sucks. He was my deputy for a while, he didn’t really think much of himself, I’m not gonna lie” [9:19]. I just find it interesting, that Jimmy says that it sucks how fWhip never called himself king— a title ostensibly higher than sheriff— and that fWhip was only a deputy. As if he thinks that fWhip could’ve been king, perhaps was worthy of the title, and just never took it— that he sees the taking of a title such as that to be so important, when for fWhip, it never was. I dunno, I just think there’s something to that. I think it says something about Jimmy and about the importance he places on titles that don’t really matter.
Jimmy ran away, in the end. He and the Old Sheriff ran far away from everything they ever knew. fWhip stayed, choosing to live out his days happily in the empire he helped to found. fWhip never took the title of king. Jimmy thinks he should’ve.
Isn’t that something?
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crystalflie · 1 year
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Two Cat People In The Same Room. (IV)
Part IV—> (Part llI here)
Chishiya Shuntaro x Reader x Banda Sunato
Description: Apparently raiding the department stores was everyone’s first instinct after the king of spades scare at Shibuya Cross. Now you’re stuck with only a cat hoodie over your inconvenient swimwear from the beach, and two unconventional cat lovers in a game of betrayal.
Word count: 1630
Tags: Gender-neutral reader, general audiences, canon divergence, fluff, canon typical character behavior and description of violence, Chishiya and Banda side-eyeing each other, can be platonic or romantic.
^A tiny bit of angst this chapter, with comfort.^
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You think that Matsushita is avoiding you.
After the little ‘incident’ with Banda and Chishiya, it was fair enough…but that doesn't mean you didn’t feel ashamed every time you were in the same proximity.
And it also didn’t help that Banda liked to subtly give you attention by getting close whenever he had the chance, or by asking to help you with your suit symbol when Chishiya was very obviously within range and listening.
It was all generally harmless and you didn’t mind it as much as you act like you do- until players suddenly began to die, even after the intimidating bully had passed. It shocked you to an unexpected degree, only because it was different when you knew that the people you were surrounded by, the people you were supposed to trust, were responsible for those that never got to leave their cell.
It was terrifying that ‘trust’ was so fragile, yet the most important component of the game. You’ve never been so relieved to have Chishiya and Ippei..though sometimes forbidden thoughts manage to cross your mind. Horrible, you knew, but more than once you found yourself to be hesitant, and accepted Banda’s offer to share symbols.
Not as if you’ll fully trust Banda either, but it doesn’t hurt to get some reassurance, right?
More or less, it was all done away from Chishiya’s knowledge, since he and Banda don’t exactly get along.
You strangely didn’t want Chishiya to be disappointed in you.
You really didn’t want him to know..how Banda and you would ‘accidentally’ bump into each other in the halls, where you’ll take off your hood and he’ll part the back of your hair, saying either spade, diamond, heart, or club.
Luckily, each time it matched what Chishiya and Ippei had told you. An unexpected weight had been lifted from your chest, and you were able to rest assured.
Though one thing didn’t change.
Banda never stopped approaching you, and even when you didn’t need to ‘help’ each other anymore, the little exchanges continued. You supposed that it would be unfair to stop now that your own doubts were gone, who knows how Banda feels about Matsushita?
“Diamond.”
Banda turned around, smiling, and gave you a pat on the shoulder.
“Thanks for the help.”
He was always extra kind to you afterward, even sometimes bringing you snacks from the cafeteria. It seems to be the case this time too, because he pulled out a packet of cookies from his pants pocket.
“Thank yo-”
Then he pulled out another pack.
“Oh, more-”
And another.
And he continued taking out cookies pack after pack until your hands were full and he patted himself down to make sure he’s got every last one.
“Banda, how- why did you take so many?!”
Banda hummed, brushing off your question with a slight shrug.
“I want to make sure the kitty cat is eating well.”
If the definition of ‘eating well’ is consuming an unauthorized sum of cookies, then yes, you would be eating well before you died from a sugar overdose.
“Okay..thanks I guess, but I should get back now, don’t want my friends to be suspicious..”
You gave Banda a nod, walking past him down the hall. He didn’t object either, footsteps indicating the man was off to his own business.
The building was still a little unsettling despite you having gotten used to it, and it had way too many turns for your liking.
You also didn’t know what to do with all the cookies Banda had left you with, you certainly weren’t going to eat them all. At least there were different flavors, but still, they were all the same brand.
Did Banda like these?
As you walked, you tried to stuff the packages into your hoodie pockets, but it still looked unnatural, like you were secretly hoarding something.
Maybe if you can get back to your cell, then you can throw them in the sink. Better than getting questions.
Your walk sped up, eager to quickly arrive at your destination, but as you rounded a dark corner, something- or someone was in your way.
“Boo.”
“AHHHH!”
Unable to stop, your only option was to fall backward, landing right on your butt. As you did, all the cookies came slipping out of your hoodie, scattering around the floors.
Your eyes darted up to see Chishiya’s amused face, who was a little surprised at how extreme your reaction was.
“Wh-What were you doing there?!”
He takes a few steps closer, staring you down with no intention of lending a hand.
You instinctively scurried further away, still sitting on the cold floors.
“What was I doing there?”
Chishiya wore a neutral expression, the edge to his voice making you nervous.
You slowly nod, unsure where he was going with this.
“I think the real question is, what were you doing?”
At some point, your back hits the wall, and Chishiya’s form cornered you.
“I was just going to find you..”
Your voice came out less confident than you'd like, but all that was on your mind was whether or not Chishiya had seen you speaking with Banda.
Judging by his words, he totally has.
You don’t realize how you tried to curl into yourself more until Chishiya let out a small scoff, kneeling down to meet your eyes.
“You don’t trust me.”
He stated it like it was a fact, and you felt the need to refute the accusation. You didn’t want to lose Chishiya and Ippei’s trust, because you did trust them, and if they didn’t trust you, then…
“I-I do!”
Chishiya tilted his head as if he were confused, not saying anything.
“I’m sorry..”
His intense stare was making you nervous, and you did the only thing you knew how—apologize. Maybe if you gave in now, you’ll be able to salvage the situation, and Chishiya wouldn’t be too upset.
“I really do trust you and Ippei..with Banda, I was just..”
The white-haired man sighed, chuckling as he shook his head and stood up again.
“No, you were smart for that, don’t worry, I won’t tell Ippei.”
You felt yourself trembling at what he said, suddenly overwhelmed with a new sense of fear. It was almost like you betrayed Chishiya, and for some reason, you really, really didn’t like the feeling of losing him. He was honestly a nice companion to have, in a weird comforting sense having known of him before this stupid game.
A few seconds passed and you couldn’t feel Chishiya’s presence over you anymore, he was walking away.
You didn’t give him the chance to go far before you managed to desperately cling onto one of his legs in a bear hug, not letting go.
“No! Don’t go!”
Frozen, he looks down to see you holding on for dear life.
“I wasn’t lying..I do trust you..I’m sorry for doubting you before..”
You squeezed his leg tighter when he didn’t respond, muttering another apology before letting go and attempting to stand up on your own. Your legs were shaky, and for an unknown reason your head was warm, clouded with aching when you realized you were being ignored.
At least you thought you were, you didn’t hear anything other than your labored breathing, perhaps even sobs you tried to hold back in front of Chishiya.
You didn’t even know why you were so worked up, just the pure atmosphere of this place was weighing down on you, and the thought of losing the trust of a friend when you needed it the most..was too much.
You stumbled a bit trying to quietly leave, but felt something stabilizing both of your arms. Blinking through your tears, you could see Chishiya’s mouth moving, saying something you couldn’t make out.
As you didn’t know what he was saying, you remained still and allowed him to set you on the ground, leaning your back against the wall.
You just let it happen, sniffling, feeling too defeated to care whether or not he’ll leave anymore.
The man ended up crouching next to you, using one of his sleeves to wipe away the wetness on your face.
He was gently shushing you, trying to get you to stop crying.
“Take a deep breath, okay?”
You bite your lower lip, trying to listen to his instructions, when Chishiya moves his hand to the side of your ear, stroking through your hair.
He does this until your breathing stabilizes, and you were disappointed to find his warmth slipping away.
“Look..I’m sorry for scaring you, okay? I’m not angry, I believe you.”
Chishiya knew he wasn’t exactly the best at expressing his emotions, but he wasn’t expecting you to be that affected by his rather apathetic nature.
He tried his best to be comforting, but one look at your reddened eyes and anyone could tell you’ve been crying. He didn’t mean to purposely upset you or push you this far, and now, it was up to him to raise your spirits again.
“Okay..that's good..”
You awkwardly moved your arms, debating whether or not it was alright to hug him. You decided you were too relieved to care, and hugged him anyway.
Equally awkward, Chishiya slowly patted your back.
“Do you want to go to the cafeteria? You’ll be less lightheaded if you have something.”
“Maybe if you carry me there..” You quietly joke, hoping to lift the mood.
“Okay.”
“Huh? Wai-”
You feel one of Chishiya’s arms slipping under your knees, and his other arm hoisting up your lower waist. In one swoop, he lifted you into a princess carry and began walking towards the direction of probably, the cafeteria.
“CHISHIYA!”
Chishiya sighs again,
“I’m starting to notice you like to scream my name a lot.”
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~AN: I just want to say if I spelled something wrong or if the wording is bad pls let me know because its like 5 am and my brain is muddled. Thank you for reading!!~
Tags: @laivi @kokxm1 @huachengsbestie01 @bxcndd @fiqire @micheshiree @puddleswimmingnerd-blog @bowscale @kuzuryussuit @rebeccawinters @sweet-citrus-candy @cham0mil-and-h0n3y @cdwmtjb8 @yanfei-kisser @reinixis @recromage @cosmicwintr @mynameisbaby9 @like0 @parkthatmay @kreishin @cloudylaze @aceredhairliberal
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chantsdemarins · 2 months
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😅Real Villain Training [Tom Hiddleston circa 2012 X Fem.Reader]
Chapter three of Breath of the Æsir is almost here. I’m SO sorry for the wait! In the meantime, I hope you enjoy a very brief Tom story...
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Honestly, I pledged to myself, no more Tom stories just focus on Loki. But I think I just can't help it. Especially when slutty inspiration like this photo comes my way (@lokischambermaid and @lokisgoodgirl 😳)
I am humbled by this era of Tom. In 2024 he is a husband/father/seasoned iconic actor in perpetual good cheer, but in 2012, he was a bad boy. As always please reblog and comment if you feel inspired!
Summary: Tom is hanging out with some real jerks for a new role, and he runs into you, literally. Your depression has caused your life to turn a little black and white, could this handsome stranger possibly add some color back? (at least to your cheeks🥵).
Smut factor: I hope...HOT 🔥
(Authors note: I have no concrete proof he was in fact a bad boy so please don't take seriously my young Tom plot themes of drugs and sex, which once again appear here. I could be totally wrong about him. It's art! It's a fabrication! Also, this story does involve mental health!)
I also don't know who would want to be on a tag list for a Tom fic these days! These are a few people who might be interested?? @lokischambermaid @mochie85 @mischief2sarawr @lokisgoodgirl @wheredafandomat @sailorholly @mrs-illyrian-baby @superficialdomina @gigglingtiggerv2 @fictive-sl0th @muddyorbs @tbhiddlestan83 @huntress-artemiss @smolvenger @kikster606 @mjsthrillernp @hiroyukinasukawa
Los Angeles, 2012
That afternoon, the rooftop pool at the Saint Avalon was a pink swirl of bathing beauties in early spring. Tom tried to focus on his deadpan conversation with his agent, but polka dots and silly cocktails danced around him. He pushed his Ray-Bans back into place, his sweat—or perhaps nervousness—causing them to slowly slide off his nose.
"Serious British actor succumbs to being typecast as a Norse sociopath. That's where this is headed, Tom, if we don’t do something, get you something else.” “Do you really want to be known only for Marvel?” he repeated his plea. The words just weren’t sinking in.
Tom laughed and inadvertently tried to change the subject. "Have you been to the La Brea Tar Pits yet, John? It’s wild—10,000 years' worth of dire wolf bones.”
His stare remained galvanized by the poolside girls. They just didn't look like that in London. Number one, the sunshine. Number two, the tans. Number three, well, his girlfriend—or ex-girlfriend, rather—made it hard to look too long at anyone else. So had he ever found himself at a rooftop pool party, he wouldn't have had the chance he was having now.
“Tom, are you paying attention? This is important. You're only here for a week, and we need to move on this role. I need to know if you're a yes.” The truth was, Tom was suddenly filthy rich with his own money for the first time in his life. He really loved being a Norse sociopath and already had big ideas for Loki’s eventual character arc into becoming an anti-hero someday. He had filled three journals on his bedside stand with his ideas for Loki.
His agent tried again, “Just hang out with Giorgio. It’s less than a month. Then the movie should be a very easy shoot. You get to embed yourself with some real hedge fund cats.” Tom’s attention snapped back. “Wait, I like that.” “Right? It’s like if Loki worked on Wall Street.” “Well…” Tom hesitated. He didn’t think Loki would actually ever bore himself that way. Those guys were boring to Tom and to Loki.
His poor agent was right, though. He did need another role. Things had gone so well; filming for the next Avengers movie was starting this summer. If he could find another gig, a time filler, a totally different genre, it really would be the best for his career. “Then a play next,” the agent mused, taking a sip of his own cocktail. “Shakespeare, or something 70s.” “70s? As in the 1570s? Or the 1970s?” “Tom.” “How should I know?” Tom laughed to himself, eyes still canvassing the poolside display around him. His agent leaned across his lawn chair and placed his hand on Tom’s shoulder. “So, you’ll do it?”
Two Weeks Later
Deep down, he knew he didn’t have the dissociation required for the job. He was too corporeal, too embodied. Years of being a long-distance runner and a trained athlete had fastened his mind, heart, and soul firmly into his muscles. He clearly wouldn’t be able to hide his feelings in his highly emotive, sensitive body. That was the first thing he noticed about the guys he was forced to hang out with for this role. They were covered up with their suits and sexist jokes. It was like they had Hadrian’s Wall around them. Which was, in fact, what exactly led to his sudden departure from the bar at Rue 23.
He had been embedded with short and loud Glen, buzz-cut Ellis, and the tall and lanky, just like him, Brad Nelson. There were a few others, but they were too milquetoast to be memorable. Role be damned. He left so fast the thick glass door almost hit a nice young couple as he bolted into the cold Los Angeles spring night.
He wasn’t dressed right; in his haste to leave London, he didn’t remember that California got into the 40s after the sun went down. He didn’t even pack a suit coat. Thank God he remembered to grab his leather pack from under the bar. It contained exactly five cigarettes, a finicky Zippo, his aftershave, a white t-shirt, and a travel toothbrush. There might also be a rolled-up Popular Mechanics magazine from the Burbank airport, something he never would be caught dead reading at Heathrow.
He also hadn’t done so much coke since he was in college. Why was LA always so incredibly cliché? He couldn’t blame Luke. He couldn’t blame anyone but himself for this role. He said yes when he was distracted. He was in over his head. They had hired these real blokes to make sure Tom looked authentic when they started filming next month, and given his intense drive for perfection, he had agreed that it was “brilliant” of the casting director to force the eight of them to spend these weeks in Los Angeles and one week in Manhattan, in a true immersive centrifuge of shallow materiality.
The night spun around him, a neon ball of yarn, teasing open his pupils until his eyes were black and not at all blue. As he walked, he ran his large hands down the surface of his body, the material of his shirt feeling like a fancy pillowcase from a boutique hotel.
One finger lingered over his jawline, tracing it as he brought his hands back up to his face. Engrossed in the comfort of his form a moment too long, he was distracted once again. This part of LA seemed to always be full of clusters of locals and tourists, laughing and talking. He was unfortunately moving against the flow of the crowd, a wayward salmon when he almost ran straight into you.
“Watch where you're going!” you yelled, dropping your purse onto the dirty LA sidewalk. It opened enough for your things to tumble out. Tom immediately stopped and bent down to help you, but you batted his hands away. “What the hell? I can pick up my own damn Chapstick,” you scolded. “Ma’am, I am so sorry, I am obviously not from here, and I am a little overwhelmed,” he rattled off. “Why is that obvious?” “My accent, of course.” “I didn’t honestly notice,” you spoke as you inspected the tall man’s face with squinting eyes.
You, of course, did immediately notice the timbre of his voice, his height, and the buttons on his tight shirt which looked like they were in the process of unbuttoning themselves. “Would you believe I’ve been doing coke all night with a bunch of Wall Street assholes at the Rue 23, and I had to get the fuck out of there,” he continued, not sure if you were listening, but you were definitely looking at him, so he continued.
“So now I am wandering the streets of Beverly Hills, and I haven’t the foggiest how the rest of my night will go.” You shuffled your feet for a moment before speaking. You had been heading home after a long day at work. You felt genuinely unprepared for navigating a handsome foreigner in the right direction. Yet there was a certain appeal to a man suddenly without his ship or his crew, so to speak. So you didn’t immediately walk away.
He had been shuffled from the airport to the bar in a hired car, he tried to explain, and his sense of direction bordered on problematic. Further, his flip phone was really only good for texting, and that even took way too long most days. He really did seem high, overwhelmed, and a little lost. He also seemed the type unable to handle any silence in a conversation.
“Do you live far?” he said after suffering through 30 seconds of no discourse. “It’s LA, everything is far.” “Fair enough,” Tom muttered sheepishly, fiddling with the buttons on his shirt, which were still somehow unbuttoning themselves. He thought he had bought the right size shirt. Maybe not.
You realized that if you were to ask this too-high, too-hot British man back to your apartment, you would inevitably cave and end up sleeping with him just because he caught you in this particular moment of your life. It was an in-between time. You weren't quite your old self and your new self that you'd been working so hard on, hadn't emerged yet.
“Want to grab something to eat?” You finally offered a neutral segue. That seemed to be just what the man needed to hear. His demeanor calmed. “Oh sure, yes, I could go for a big American cheeseburger, honestly.” “Okay then, let’s go to Patty’s on Vine, we can walk,” you said as you pulled at his shirt to turn him toward the right direction. He bristled at the feeling of your touch.
His whole body was even more sensitive than usual. You looked like the queen of the ancient British Iceni to him. In truth, he didn’t much care for the California look. He loved that you appeared out of nowhere and you looked like Boudica, not like Gwyneth Paltrow. Even though he was sure he heard she was nice. RDJ seemed to really love her.
The diner where you were headed was the second-tier after-hours hang, so it wasn’t populated with the usual crowd, not yet at least. You had some time before you would be inundated, and perhaps before someone would recognize him, which you still did not. You could ask him, of course. Although, sometimes in Los Angeles, the worst part is knowing who someone is.
Although Tom being Tom was unable to resist personal questions. “Tell me a little bit about yourself, just a little,” he had to ask as the night air propelled him quickly down the sidewalk. You considered telling him about your job, but it was just how you paid the bills. Your passions were your passions and not for a stranger. So you decided to be a little goth. It couldn't hurt.
“I have something like anhedonia, I suppose,” you finally said. Tom seemed to know what you meant right away. “The inability to feel?” He spoke. “More classically refined, which results in numbness, making capturing interior somatic sensations nearly impossible,” you clarified. “Sounds like you are depressed,” Tom flattened out your creative retelling of your current state. “Maybe,” although you weren't sure of his simple label. "You think it will pass?" Tom continued, ever the optimist.
You considered one way to try and test if this state you'd been in could possibly change, would be to see if he could provoke feelings of passion or at least some kind of low-grade horniness. You’d been feeling functionally blank for a while now.
He was stunning, after all.
He seemed game for anything, his amphetamine grin taking up the majority of his handsome face. He looked so lovely under the hanging light in your dingy booth. You ate the two-egg special you ordered and watched him devour his American cheeseburger with genuine joy.
“So, you're here to practice for a new part?” You sincerely tried to keep the conversation flowing despite the growing desire to test your theory. “Yes, they want me to branch out. In my career, there’s the fear I am already 'type-casted,' I guess you could say.” “Type-casted? So early on?”
He looked young to you. Possibly younger than you actually. “Yes, I had a big role as a villain, it really blew up, but, he's like a mythological comic book one. I am misunderstood mostly. I mean my character, not me.” "Sure." You nodded in understanding and agreed even if you didn’t quite pick up what he was putting down. You wondered if he had ever seen 'The Last Starfighter.' A favorite movie of yours, you rarely shared with anyone else. Or had he been in that? Your mind wandered. You really didn't recognize him, but you also didn't want to offend him by this fact.
“So how would this role be redefining your abilities? If you are playing a heartless hedge fund dude, isn’t that also a kind of villain? Maybe that is why you got this part.” Tom pondered your insight. He again fell into overthinking and was only a text away from bailing on the entire endeavor. He was becoming that kind of guy, emotionally uneven under his elite veneer.
“I guess they feel like I don’t have the chops to be a 'real world' baddie.” “I needed more practice.” “You don’t?” you said very timidly, suddenly you weren’t hungry anymore. You gently pushed your plate aside so you could focus.
You realized his bromance compadres would find him eventually. Another LA truth: it was hard to get truly lost for long. You had been studying his face during the conversation. His pale complexion was slowly becoming flushed in small increments. Was it shyness or a hidden boldness he was bursting to demonstrate, you couldn't tell.
You had worn your espadrilles today, maybe it wasn’t the right season yet, but they always went so well with your outfit-a flowery dress from H&M. Gently and playfully, you kicked one of them off your foot, making a soft thud. Tom dipped his eyes beneath the table for only a moment and brought them back to you, a new flash of crimson emerging. Why were you taking off your shoes? Maybe your feet hurt from the walk?
He picked up his water and chugged almost all of it.
Your right leg lifted up and found purchase exactly between his, landing on the soft seat. Tom chuckled nervously and grabbed your foot. “Just what are you doing?” “I thought you were in training to be a real villain. Or did I misunderstand that?” You teased. Tom’s sincerity and earnestness were effulgent. “Oh no, I am, I really want the part, I need this role.” Suddenly when the idea of something illicit going on beneath the table loomed, he was not reticent about this new role. “Then you better continue to practice.” You laughed, your own smile forming across your face. “How long do we have until they find you?” You inched your foot closer to his crotch.
Tom took a deep breath in and pulled out his flip phone eyes squinting, trying to see the rectangle text banner across the tiny screen. He held the phone up to you. “Can you read this at all?” You grabbed it from him, feeling his hand shaking a little. It was charming. He was nervous.
You read the tiny screen aloud, “Not really, something about where are you at…you wanker, we are about to call your agent." It did say exactly that, and you wondered if possibly Tom was throwing away this role. Were you watching him collapse his career before your eyes? “Are you one for self-sabotage Tom?” The question seemed to catch him off guard. Maybe no one had asked him so bluntly. “Maybe,” he said after a long minute of typing something on the seemingly minute phone with his long fingers and even larger hands. “Just like I am possibly depressed," you offered. He looked up and sat his phone down. “Yes, I think so. Just like that.”
Incoming
Just then the waitress came by filled your water glasses and gave you another quick refill of coffee. Your chosen sobriety was a strange foil to Tom’s imbibed stimulant cocktail which showed no sign of waning. “So, are we on?” He finally said after biting his bottom lip, for what seemed like a year, until it was slightly puffy.
“For what? A staring contest?” You offered, laughing nervously too, your foot still stationed between his thighs. You wondered what you could accomplish at this hour with the looming threat of an incursion at any moment.
The glimmer in his dilated orbs registered that Tom was now aligned in a mission of testing the perpetuity of your anhedonic state. Suddenly under the table, you felt his long legs spread yours apart, like opening a long-closed window that had been painted over.
You gasped but didn’t say anything. He laughed and widened his legs further. You moved your eyes to watch him under the table, his hand reaching down to adjust his cock, which was obviously becoming hard.
At that moment you wanted to jump over to his side of the booth, you wanted to concede and take him to your far away apartment in embarrassing Marina Del Rey.
Tom went silent and finally let go of your bare foot, he had been holding it so hard with his other hand, that you were sure it would be bruised. You immediately placed it on his now impossibly hard cock, tenting his pants obscenely. Honestly, you’d never given a “foot job” before and only seen something like this in a French film once. You had no idea what you were doing.
You slowly began to move your foot up and down his length, which was quite impressive and required more force than you had anticipated. You curled your toes around him to try and create more friction, dragging your heel just at the base.
You placed your hands on the edge of the diner seat so you could put some real weight into getting him off. That seemed to work, and Tom let out a guttural moan. He quickly grabbed your water glass and drank it in addition to his own.
“Should I stop?” You let yourself wonder out loud. “Are you crazy? No.” Was Tom’s quick reply. “Does this feel good?” “Fuck yes.” His voice was breathy, and he shifted in his seat, daring to look around at the customers, but none showed any sign of noticing anything other than themselves. “But this isn’t fair,” he spoke again softly, panting. “How so?” “Because I am um, I am receiving.” “Aren’t you supposed to be a selfish cold surface-level junior business asshole?” “Yes.” “Then this is what they do, they get foot jobs in diners, amongst other perks of course,” you laughed. “Shit, you’re right,” Tom barely squeaked out.
Just then the diner door opened, and you could see the dim faces of the guys he had been partying with. They finally found him. “Don’t look now but your Republican friends have arrived.” Tom’s flush became pale. “Should I stop?” You checked in again. “No.” His response was as clear as mid-day.
So, you increased your speed, you took a deep breath. You were so turned on at this point. You were positive there would be a wet spot on the cracked vinyl seat. You lifted your skirt up further. Tom noticed and peered beneath the table again. He saw your hand brush past your underwear and a finger curl inside the lace trim. You matched his erratic breathing to your motions as you fucked yourself intently. His eyes were glued to you, his fists almost punching into the flimsy placemats. You laughed to yourself about the chances of you both coming in public, surely, he wouldn’t, or you couldn’t.
You were about to mention that perhaps you should stop. When suddenly Tom let out a muffled cry. His breath hitched. You could feel moisture beneath the bottom of your toes as you brought your foot back to the tip of his generous cock once more. “Ah, I see,” you laughed. "Well looks like we are done here." There was no more time to discuss what just happened. The bros had spotted him and you and made their way to your back corner.
Tom closed his eyes in what looked like a silent prayer. He had just had one of the best orgasms of his life. The short blond one with cropped hair spoke up, “Hiddleston, where the fuck have you been, your agency was about to call the cops, which would have been lame.”
“Hiddleston,” you said his surname out loud. Realizing you never got his last name. Tom looked at you with both lust and remorse. Then turned back to the assholes. “You found me, good work,” he said assuredly. “Well we gotta go dick we have a strip club that closes at 3am and it’s in the contract that we take you there.”
Tom slowly got up and used one of his long fingers to expertly untuck that white button-down shirt to conceal the mess you had both made. He looked your way, the pale blue of his eyes returning.
You exchanged numbers for the pleasantry of it, as the assholes looked on impatiently, probably wondering why Tom was wasting his time on a girl who looked like Boudica, but that's just what assholes do you remembered. Although you really didn’t expect to hear from him again. To your surprise right before dawn, perhaps as he was leaving said strip club, a text came over your Blackberry.
“I hope you felt something, I know I did.” Shit.
You did feel something, a lot of things actually. Tom had brought something back to the solemnly plain bagel of your life. You quickly wrote back.
"Don't let the bros see you texting me Tom, you laughed knowing he was probably squinting and barely able to see your words. You picture all of them looking over his shoulder.
"They went home. Can I come over? I feel like we aren't done quite yet. My asshole-in-training self expires at sunrise and I turn back into the real me. Is that okay?" You blinked a few times just to make sure you saw that correctly. "So you're actually Cinderella," you laughed nervously.
You managed to type your address and push send before pulling your covers over your head and screaming quietly enough to not wake up your still-slumbering roommates. You then looked around your room in quiet delightful horror, you had about 30 minutes to hide all your dirty clothes from the past three months under your bed...
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20 questions for fic writers
Tagged by @the-real-azalea-scroggs! Had to wait until I was of my phone because doing these is a nightmare on mobile lmao
1. How many works do you have on A03?
18 as of a few days ago!
2. What's your total A03 word count?
157,937! Which is. Only a fraction of the word count in my Docs folder. Be prepared.
3. What fandoms do you write for?
I mainly write for The Legend of Zelda; specifically Linked Universe! In fact, that's all that's posted on my Ao3 currently, since my fall into that fandom began with me uploading there! Pre-Ao3 I wrote for Black Cat (Anime/Manga), Megaman NT Warrior, various Pokémon things, Assassin's Creed, Yugioh, Final Fantasy XIV and Octopath Traveler! Some of these I still write privately, but I haven't gotten around to re-posting any.
4. What are your top five fics by kudos?
Whistling on Deaf Ears - My longest fic on Ao3, focusing on Wild and Twilight's friendship and how good intentions can lead to disaster.
Iconoclasm - Warriors deals with the room full of portraits in Cia's palace. The Chain also deals with it, but with a bit more fire.
Deserving - Twilight finally tells Rusl that he was the wolf in the village during TP, but that also means dealing with some heavier topics. Colin half overhears them and forms his own conclusions.
Something Greater - The start of the "Hyrule can see magical auras" series! In this one we deal with Legend and his many rings.
Ocean Magic - Mermaid Legend and Zora Time have a race and then fight one of the Big Octos from WW! Fun times.
5. Do you respond to comments? Why or why not?
Every single one!! I love comments, they give me an excuse to ramble about my fic more!! I am always down to ramble about every single insignificant detail of any line and/or section. If you ever want more background info about one of my fics, look to the comments!
So please, I adore comments, I treat them like treasures, not responding to them would be a CRIME.
6. What's the fic you wrote with the angstiest ending?
There's no contest; Inevitable, my (so far) only MCD fic.
7. What's the fic you wrote with the happiest ending?
Hmmm, that's hard to quantify. I usually try to end fics on a hopeful note regardless. I'd say possibly either Deserving, where Twilight reconnects with his family, or Shimmering Blue, Striking White, where Time meets the Fierce Deity settled down on Satori Mountain and they both get closure.
8. Do you get hate on fics?
Thankfully, no! I've been blessed with mostly amazing and patient readers, even when my upload schedule isn't the best.
9. Do you write smut?
No, not really. I've attempted it, but I'm too asexual for it lol
10. Do you write crossovers?
Very, very rarely. Mostly privately, and only very specific ones. Only a single one has had an actual plot, so far (more on that one in question 15!).
11. Have you ever had a fic stolen?
Nope!
12. Have you ever had a fic translated?
Also a nope! I tend to write for smaller fandoms, where these things don't tend to happen a lot!
13. Have you ever co-written a fic before?
I have! But it's been a while. Over a decade, in fact! I tried to find the fic to link it here, but it was on the German fanfic website fanfiktion.de, and my friend who posted it back then must have deactivated her account, because it's nowhere to be seen (I still have the Word file though!). It was a Multi-Crossover that started as an RP in a forum, and we took turns turning the RP into prose one chapter each. "If a Hero Turns to Dark" was its title. We were edgy teenagers.
14. What's your all-time favourite ship?
Hissssss. Bad question. Shoo. They are all equally important!!
But it's probably TenRose from Doctor Who.
15. What's the WIP you want to finish but doubt you ever will?
One of the very few crossovers I've ever worked on; a crossover fic between Assassin's Creed and Doctor Who, that I have mapped out in both chronological and timeline order, and yes, those are different. I only ever wrote about a quarter of it, since my primary audience of it disappeared when we graduated. I doubt I'll ever pick it back up properly, and if I do it'll probably go through heavy rewrites first since it's so old. Finishing it is a nice thought, but realistically, after 9 years it'll never be high priority enough for it to actually happen.
16. What are your writing strengths?
Dialogue, especially arguments, and emotional impact. I've been told I do really well making characters feel alive and believable! Also I like to believe I'm decent at setting a scene and giving it the vibe I want it to have!
17. What are your writing weaknesses?
I struggle with dialogue tags when nothing much is happening besides the talking. I always feel it's too bland, and fall back on the same phrases. My scene transitions could use some work too.
18. Thoughts on writing dialogue in another language for a fic?
I've done this with Japanese phrases, because I was a massive weeb. Usually I followed them up with their own translations, though; I'm not the biggest fan of footnote translations, unless they are properly linked to. Simple dialogue tags are my favourite way of indicating a language switch.
19. First fandom you wrote for?
Black Cat the Manga/Anime! It's a series about an assassin turned bounty hunter trying to live a life separate from his murdery past, but getting dragged back into things by still wanting to avenge his best friend's death. The series has a special place in my heart and my bookshelf, it left an imprint on 13-year-old me that will never leave.
20. Favourite fic you've ever written?
Probably Jailbreak, uncharacteristically enough! It's one of the only fics I never got stuck in once. Writing it was a great feeling from start to finish. I love writing all of my fics, but that was a special few days.
Tagging @ahrva @nowhere-to-go-but-down @silvercaptain24 and @aeghina! And anyone who wants to do it, really, go wild
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youcouldmakealife · 7 months
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LBTE: Jared (111-114)
New arc, and things get serious quick
If you want to read along, the series page is here. All previous parts under the 'liveblogging the end' tag.
111 - Change of Scenery
A new arc! One I believe I thought was the last. Spoiler alert: it was not.
And he knows that’s probably the most ungrateful attitude in the world, that every single hockey prospect in the entire province probably just felt a chill down their spine and went ‘someone isn’t appreciating the fact he’s in the fucking NHL’.
AND he’s defiled The Battle of Alberta.
“If you’re trying to make it harder to leave, it’s working,” Jared tells Bryce. Honesty is very important in a marriage.
“I don’t even want you to stay,” Bryce says, in possibly the worst acting job ever. The fact his arms tighten around Jared doesn’t help.
These two.
“Yeah,” Jared says, blows out a breath, gets one last kiss that doesn’t last long enough, then grabs his bags, Bryce hovering in the doorway when he walks down the hall like Jared’s going to trip and die on the way to the elevator, or maybe like —
“Quit looking at my ass,” Jared says without slowing.
“Training did you nice,” Bryce says in like, the sleaziest voice of all time, and Jared’s still laughing when the elevator doors close behind him.
THESE TWO.
“Okay, Halla,” Jared says, when it doesn’t abate as he heads to the front hall.
“Dinner,” Julius says when Jared opens the door.
“Hi, Julius, good to see you after months, I missed you too,” Jared says.
“Dinner,” Julius insists.
“Yeah, okay, I could eat,” Jared says, and Julius impatiently hovers while Jared puts his shoes on, grabs his wallet and his keys.
Jared's stray cat came back.
“Go be social with your team,” Jared says.
Bryce scoffs.
Still so far for Bryce to go! From this to slutty butterfly.
go b social go to bed ur so bossy, Bryce texts.
Bryce like ‘is he going to be even bossier now that we’re married? …that’s so hot’
112 - Stumbling Block
“I’ve been wondering if it’s too early to propose to my girlfriend,” Morris says.
Jared almost says ‘aren’t you a little young?’ before he realises that sounds patently ridiculous, considering Morris is at least a year older than him, and Jared’s currently wearing a wedding band.
20 years old, the AUDACITY of this boy. (Ben won’t propose for awhile, actually, but Vicki will, of course, say yes, and years down the line comes Liam’s godbaby/Luke’s fave niece Sadie)
“Just, you know, do it when it feels right?” Jared says uncomfortably. He’s not good at advice. Advice isn’t his thing. Does this ring mean he’s going to have to keep doing it? Not that he’ll take it off even if it does mean that, but it’ll suck.
Every single opportunity Jared has to mentor someone results in horrified backpedaling. Do not make this his responsibility.
“Got any pics from your wedding?” Johnson asks. He’s new to the team, picked up in free-agency, so Jared doesn’t know why he’d even care.
Jared: How dare he try to get to know me better upon meeting me, what the fuck is the matter with this guy?
“Not on my phone,” Jared says, and then Johnson, who apparently got married that summer himself, starts showing Jared picture after picture after picture of his own wedding, which is boring, but at least means he drops the subject. Jared’s pretty sure he just asked for an excuse to show all of his pictures, actually.
Trying to bond with a new teammate through a shared experience, what a fucking weirdo, right Jared?
His wife looks very pretty in her wedding gown, and Jared gets slugged hard in the arm for saying so, which he thinks is meant to be affectionate thanks? It hurts.
Jared sulkily rubbed his arm at least three times after that.
Rogers asked if he got married around Calgary, which is an easy question, and Morris asks why they haven’t ever met Jared’s spouse, which he can kind of side-step with a ‘it’s long-distance right now, they’ve got a job they love in Calgary’, and Jacobi asks him his wife’s name, which is — not one that’s easy to side-step. For a couple obvious reasons.
Jared shrugs. “It’s a secret,” he says, trying again to sound bored, probably failing.
Jared Matheson you made it a mystery. Never make it a mystery.
Jacobi waves a dismissive hand. “I’m just saying, the rookie’s fucking with y’all.”
Jared bites back an indignant ‘I’m not a rookie anymore’. It’s not worth it, and Julius will just roll his eyes again.
Jared living in fear of Julius’ disdain.
“Oh yeah?” Jacobi asks. “What’s his wife’s name?”
“It’s a secret,” Julius says without batting an eye, and Jared half wants to hug him, half wants to strangle him.
All hugs from me.
“Let the kid have some privacy if he wants it,” Rogers says, which Jared appreciates.
Whoooole lot of alarm bells ringing in Darryl’s head at this point — it ain’t his first rodeo.
He thinks Julius is smirking beside him, but he doesn’t check, because then he’d be obligated to elbow him.
TERRIFIED of Julius’ disdain. It doesn’t feel nice, does it Jared?
Jared takes back every single bad thing he’s thought or said about Darryl Rogers in his entire life. And it’s a long list, because he’s a good D-man and he’s been the enemy for like, a decade. All scratched. Good dude.
I cannot overstate how viscerally Jared has hated Rogers at points. Like, this guy’s been on the Enemy since Jared was a kid. He’s won games for the Oilers and made plays that lost the game for the Flames. And while he’s managed to let go of (most) of his Oilers angst, that one’s been around for a long time, and it’s one of the last things to go. But clean slate. Good dude. Rogers is a bro.
The Flames still apparently haven’t noticed Bryce is wearing a wedding ring. It’s hit pathetic level of obliviousness. Or maybe they have noticed, they just don’t care enough to ask Bryce about it.
Yeah it’s the second one, Jared.
Jared’s convinced Julius to actually start helping him in the kitchen, decided to tackle some of the more ambitious recipes provided by the team nutritionist, and sometimes the recipes fail and they suffer through it or order delivery, but sometimes him and Julius are sharing a silent, proud nod before shovelling greatness into their mouths.
The friend Jared deserves <3 The next generation of Mathesons will eat well.
The first indication there’s something officially rotten between Jared and Oilers management is, well — it’s not subtle.
Just a general all-round ugh for everything to do with Deslauriers.
His parents always warned him about the hazards of being a gay pro athlete, about the homophobia in the league, and it’s not that he didn’t believe them, he absolutely believed them, but he just — he doesn’t know. Figured he’d be the exception? Hoped, at least.
Again, he’d argue, but he’s an optimist at heart.
112 - Succor
Jared has to call Greg now, he guesses. His parents are probably both working, Bryce he needs to save for last, and Greg’s job is literally Jared. Among other players, obviously, but still. He should call Greg.
Greg doesn’t pick up, so Jared leaves him a message that it’s important and finishes his Gatorade, staring at the blank TV. He’s poured himself a glass of water — hydration’s important or whatever — is halfway through it when Greg calls him back.
Just including the end of this sequence, but the entire start of this part Jared’s gone so hard into repressing his anger he’s hit full on dissociation.
“Greg?” Jared asks. “You still there?”
“You know what this is, right?” Greg asks.
“Deslauriers being a fucking asshole?” Jared asks.
“Well,” Greg says. “Yes. But he’s targeting you professionally for your personal life.”
“I mean, I figured that out, yeah,” Jared says.
Greg, ten minutes into the call: WAIT, THIS IS HOMOPHOBIA. Jared: Yes please keep up.
Poor Greg, he’s so out of his depth.
“And Halla excepted, the ones who know are punishing you for it,” Greg says. “Jared, you don’t have to play for a front office that is personally targeting you. If you want — I can’t necessarily make anything happen, but if you want to request a trade, or I can contact the NHLPA and file a—”
I know this sounds like it’s stating the obvious (and it is), but Greg is just straight up having the realization now because he really didn’t think any of this would fall out the way it did, like, it’s the 21st century, who cares anymore, right?
(Dave knew.)
Greg sighs. “I know you do,” he says, like it isn’t news to him. It’s news to Jared, how much he wants to stay. “Keep me updated, okay? On anything. If he so even walks through a door you’re holding open without saying thank you, I want to know.”
This is a serious crime in Canada.
His dad calls him back within a minute. “On my way to one,” his dad says, with faint distance like he’s driving, using the hands-free. “What’s up, bud? Is Julius coming for dinner? Obviously he’s welcome, I just need to know so I know how much food to make, you guys pack it away.”
Julius is already so welcome in the Matheson household, which is going to serve him well in the future. Don accepted an Oilers player into his household before he was even dating his daughter! (Well. Two Oilers players. One was his son, so he didn't have much of a choice, even as an avid Battler of Alberta)
“Sorry,” Jared says.
“Don’t be sorry,” his dad says. “Deslauriers should be fucking sorry. If I got him in a room he’d be—”
Jared bites down a smile, what feels like his first real one of the day.
Don and Jared are so often at cross purposes in the narrative that it’s always nice when Don is 100% on Jared’s side.
“They can do whatever the fuck they want,” Jared snaps. “I’m not you, Bryce, if the Flames scratched you the entire city would be speculating about what the fuck got their star player scratched. They can do whatever they want to me, doesn’t matter if it makes sense, doesn’t matter if it’s just out of spite, and I can’t do shit, and they know it, and they’re making sure I know it. This is just—”
It’s a message. They can do whatever the fuck they want, they can make Jared sit out a game against his husband, they can make Jared sit out a game in front of his family, they can make Jared sit out a game in his hometown. They can do whatever the fuck they want, and they have.
Message received.
Jared has no interest in bullshit power games, it’s not a tongue he speaks, but he can read it fluently.
“I can’t believe you’re on his side right now,” Jared says.
“I’m on your side,” his mom says. “I’m always on your side. But I know you, Jared, as much as you like to think you’re unknowable, so I’m asking you, right now — when you’ve been meeting with Deslauriers, have you been rude?”
“Well, apparently polite’s rude now, so probably,” Jared says.
“Defensive,” she says. “Combative. Distant. Unwilling to listen.”
Not that Jared has no right to be, he obviously does, but — yeah, Susan has her finger on it. There has been a chill.
(Also 'as much as you like to think you're unknowable' is as absolutely savage as it is accurate)
“In any other industry your front office would be opening themselves up to a lawsuit with this, because this is textbook retaliatory practice. I’m furious for you. But Jared, you need to pay attention to how you come off. You’re not Bryce, you can’t antagonise your management.” Jared doesn’t know if she means that he’s not as good as Bryce, which is accurate, or that she’s implying Bryce has antagonised Flames management, which is — also accurate, but either way he’s pissed.
“Sorry,” Jared says. “I’m so terribly sorry my marriage has been mildly inconvenient for my management, of course they’re right to scratch me, because otherwise how else could I learn—”
“This is exactly what I’m talking about, Jared,” she interrupts. “You’re still young, and I don’t think you realise—”
Susan’s seen a lot of people’s attitudes sink them, and she doesn’t want it happening to Jared This… may not be the ideal time for her to state this. None of the Mathesons are good at holding their tongues when they’re upset. Susan’s typically the best of the bunch, but then, she's quite upset.
Julius has the same protest as everyone else, that he’s playing well, and Jared still appreciates it, maybe extra from Julius, who’s protesting like he’s annoyed his line is getting worse. Not that Greg, his dad, Bryce didn’t mean it about Jared’s play, not that they wouldn’t know what good play looks like either, not just in general, but good play for Jared in particular. But with Julius it’s less ‘why are they scratching you, then?’ and more ‘how dare they take my linemate away? You being scratched personally inconveniences me and I am not here for it’.
I love that Julius being upset for selfish reasons makes Jared happy.
“I could—” Julius says.
“Don’t,” Jared says, before he finishes whatever he was about to offer. Jared’s pretty sure the best thing for him, for this stupid fucking situation, is to grit his teeth and smile and bear it, that Julius protesting, or talking to Deslauriers, anything like that, would just set Deslauriers against him more.
Jared is correct.
114 - Rejection
The Oilers go to Calgary. And like, Jared’s not excluding himself in that. He’s on the flight, obviously, because scratched players travel with the team — the whole point of having more dudes on your roster than on the bench is so they’re there if someone gets hurt or sick last minute, or like, married a Flame and is subsequently getting punished for it.
All common occurrences.
It’s not a long walk to his apartment, and he feels this fundamental sense of relief as soon as he walks in the door, gives the concierge a smile and a wave as he heads for the elevator. Home.
Hi James! (Add him to the name twin pile with all the Mikes and Not-Mikes, Matthews (given and surname), and multiple unrelated Bradleys)
Jared barely hears Bryce’s key in the lock before Bryce is behind him in the kitchen, chin on his shoulder and hands curling around his hips. He must’ve like, sprinted it.
He didn't walk, I'll tell you that.
“If you want to eat you can’t distract me,” Jared says, and Bryce digs his chin in harder before he kisses Jared’s neck, making it very clear where lunch lies on his priority list.
“No lunch?” Jared asks.
There’s a hint of teeth in the next kiss.
Bryce has priorities. Lunch is not on the list.
“We are not having sex in the kitchen,” Jared mumbles against Bryce’s mouth as he fights Bryce’s shirt buttons, and Bryce makes a disagreeable noise in response, but starts steering them towards their room, so that’s good.
Jared has sacrificed his safety for shower sex, but he draws the line at health. No kitchen sex. They make food there. Okay, he makes food there.
Every time he thinks Bryce has reached the plateau of being the best at blow jobs, he figures out how to make it even better. It’s like. There’s probably a hockey metaphor in there, applying himself to his game, getting on the scoresheet, something, but Jared’s too come dumb to think of one.
I admire Bryce's dedication to be the best at all his passions: hockey, marriage, sucking dick.
Hmm,” Bryce says, and kisses Jared’s shoulder in a blatant violation of the no-touching policy. Jared will allow it.
Well that edict lasted ten seconds.
He cuts it close: less than a minute after curfew there’s a curt knock on the door. Jared exchanges a glance with Julius, a silent ‘who’s stuck getting up?’, but considering Jared’s probably the reason it’s happening — they periodically check in on at least the ELC guys to keep them honest, but Jared suspects this is not a random spot check — he gets up and goes to the door.
“Good kid,” Mulligan says, then turns on his heel and walks away.
Mulligan hates everything about this situation.
Mulligan didn’t even check if Julius was there. He could have been out partying.
lol, okay Jared.
Julius is bobbing his head to whatever Finnish death metal band he’s obsessed with at the moment — they all sound the same to Jared, and he bets they would even if they were singing — screaming? — in English — while peeling an orange with his teeth like a total weirdo.
I love him.
He shoots the nauseated face Julius’ way.
Julius looks down at his phone when it buzzes, then pushes his headphones down, scowling at Jared. “What?” he asks.
“Peel the orange with your hands,” Jared says.
He really should have expected the half-peeled orange that comes flying his way.
“Go back to your husband,” Julius mutters.
“Would if I could,” Jared says.
Brothers <3
Jared works very hard on keeping his face completely stoic when the goal goes in. It helps that Bryce just scored on Jared’s goalie, which tempers the flare of vicious satisfaction he feels, thinking of Deslauriers’ face right now. Jared doesn’t like it when people score on his goalies, and that includes his husband. It’s rude.
Poor etiquette to score on your husband's goalie.
They’re wheels up in nine hours. Less than ninety minutes until curfew, and maybe this was a bad idea, maybe he should have gone back to the hotel to stew instead of getting not enough of Bryce again, the time so short he’s just going to feel worse when he leaves, feel cheated. He would have seen even less of Bryce if he was playing, so it’s not the scratch, except it is, it’s the scratch, and the distance, and he puts his fucking ass on the line every single time he steps on the ice, worked so fucking hard to get there, and —
Jared’s so tired.
Oh Jared.
“They gave you first star, right?” Jared asks into Bryce’s chest.
“Yeah,” Bryce says.
“Good,” Jared says. “You deserved it.”
"Thanks,” Bryce says, then, “Sorry,” and Jared closes his eyes when he feels Bryce’s lips brush his hair.
Oh buds.
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teawinx · 2 years
Text
I know that Chat Blanc is an ep with very mixed opinions about it
Some love it, some hate it
I’m just really confused by it
It’s another case of Marinette being punished and told “it’s your fault” when it really wasn’t. Sure her being a creep was painful to sit through, but compared to what Adrien, Gabriel and Bunnix did she’s basically innocent. At least in my opinion
.
I think instead of it being a “Bunnix pointlessly traumatizes Marinette” episode, it should have been used to teach Chat Noir a lesson. Especially considering how little Chat Blanc seems to affect her, with only 2 exceptions.
I’d have used it to knock some sense into Adrien. Since he, y’know, LIED to Marinette once he discovered she’s Ladybug and used that info to immediately date her. I’d have had Bunnix show him the destroyed future, which he caused after taking advantage of knowing LB’s identity. (Well his dad caused it too) Teaching him that he needs to prioritize Paris’s safety over his own feelings, and that Ladybug doesn’t owe him her secret identity. 
Plus Chat Blanc the akuma didn’t even need purifying, since he gets deleted from the timeline. Chat could have gone back in time and prevented himself from learning LB’s identity, erasing the Chat Blanc timeline from existence. And idk just covering his ears when CB tries saying what LB’s real name is.
Plus Chat Noir vs Chat Blanc cat fight plz and thank you.
Which would then transition nicely into my idea for Chat in Season 4, overdoing it with his helpfulness and stepping on everyone’s toes. With him then learning that he needs to find a balance. His feelings should also be important to him, but not at the cost of other’s well being. Balance is key.
Chat Blanc feels like an important episode, but very very little comes of it. Season 3′s finale, as terrible as it is, still impacted the plot more than CB ever did.
(Edit) I’ve been asked to tag this as Adrien salt. But I personally don’t consider this Adrien salt. It’s Adrien criticism, yes, but not written with any hatred towards the character. He’s poorly written and I’m trying to find ways to make him more active. Now I just sound like an overly enthusiastic fitness trainer. But alright I’ll cave and put the tag in. I don’t agree with it but it’s not a hill I’m willing to die on.
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homicidal-slvt · 8 months
Text
"Strangers Are Especially Strange Here"
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Part 2
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OCs x F!Reader
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You are a young woman who also happens to be a witch- ending up with you in a college of mythical beings... {This story is gonna be silly chaos and will be aimed at my fellow bisexuals.}
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Warnings: None- just silliness.
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You unintentionally discovered you aren't entirely human a bit late in life, which resulted in where you're at now. Learning how to control your abilities should be fun though, right?
Right???
You've so far spent the whole day running around getting lectures on what you shouldn't do as a witch. Yes, it's very very important that you learn that stuff- blah blah.
But it's boringgggg... And you have every right to be complaining in your head, waddling down the hall books in hand like a depressed penguin.
At least the long corridors of the old building are beautiful, an intricate lacy gold pattern that imitates the look of vines lines the wallpaper, the floor beneath your feet a shiny black marble with gold streaks through it- feeling as though the place has a strong energy and power of it's own.
Though without warning you are harshly dragged from your thoughts to the sudden appearance of a young guy's head popping out of the wall...
"Sup!"
"WHAT THE FUCK?!?"
You let out quite the shriek but miraculously don't fall or drop your books. The dude has thick fluffy medium length creamy blonde hair that is wavy in a very unruly way, his eyes are more rounded in shape and the picture perfect example of the color baby blue, his skin tone closest to that of pale ivory and you could describe his face shape as being more heart shaped. He quickly came fully out of the wall and stood in front of you, he's probably somewhere around 5'11 in height, from what you can tell his body type falls more into the category of 'inverted triangle'. He's wearing an extremely baggy but comfy looking ice blue sweater, a pair of simple jeans and some scuffed up white tennis shoes. Despite the fact the guy just scared you shitless- he still has a bright smile on his face.
"Oops. You must be new here."
Oops??? Not an apology??? Just- oops???
You do not have time to deal with this, you're already tired and bored and annoyed- so you just make your way around him and keep walking. The guy pauses for a second before calling out to you.
"Hey- wait! Sorry! I really didn't mean to scare you!"
Too little too late- you rounded the corner and kept on going.
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You know- you failed to realize just how big this place is. The separate building that you get to stay in is huge, you have your own bedroom in it. Granted- there's set times for breakfast, lunch, dinner... Yeah, not like a normal college at all. You have decently cooked food and you just have to show up to eat it.
However of course- you still had to pay to be here. Well, more like your aunt paid for you to be here- you didn't even know you had an aunt for a long ass time... You know what- that's not important right now.
You open your laptop and start typing away, you do have normal assignments to get done on top of the extra classes to do with your powers.
Pros and cons...
You're also surrounded by so many different kinds of people, you swore you saw a guy with cat ears earlier.... However he didn't stick around very long and seemed to want nothing to do with any of the socializing happening around him.
Totally understandable.
This place is giving a whole new meaning to the word 'strangers' but hey- that isn't necessarily a bad thing, is it?
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{Is this bad? I don't know. It's October and I had a silly idea for a series and decided- fuck it. You only live once.}
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{@sofasoap @shadofireshinobi @scar-crossedlvrs sorry if you guys don't wanna be tagged. Just let me know.}
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{More Content}
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salparadiselost · 6 months
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*BUSTS DOWN THE DOOR* Hello! I've reread many of your fics multiple times because I enjoy them so much! In Seat of the Stars AU, are there Taur groomers like horse groomers or are Taurs allowed to just brush their own fur? Very specific question, I know, but I enjoy knowing little random details like that
Hello! Thank you for the little random question. I love getting questions like this. So yes, generally if you have more than like three taurs, you would have a groomer/stablehand. This depends a bit on class.
Farmers who live more closely with their taurs would do the grooming and care themselves and wouldn’t hire additional people. Merchants, higher class individuals and generally those who keep a designated stable would have staff specifically for their taurs. This can include groomers, drivers (those who manage carriages), trainers, farriers and possibly a specialised doctor. Taurs are large creatures and require a lot of maintainence. Taurs also can have many different jobs which requires different trainers and tack. In the story, I know we’ve mentioned steeds, warhorses and post ponies, but there are also draft horses for hard labor, show ponies for entertainment, taurs specifically bred for sporting events, carriage drivers, pretty much everything.
Now, the second part of your question, are they allowed to groom themselves. Both yes and no. Yes, they can brush their own fur and will groom themselves and each other, but also there’s someone who will do it for them. They could groom and bathe themselves, but most choose just to let the stable hands do it because it’s easier and quicker. Plus, taurs typically do develop a nice relationship with the staff assigned to them so it’s enjoyable just to get taken care of.
I think another part of your question is how much autonomy taurs have in their own care. This is another thing that would vary wildly from stable to stable and also be influenced by their jobs.
Some stables are extremely rigid and control every aspect of their taurs’ appearances. These are the stables that dictate how a taur wears their mane, what they will get dressed in each day, what type of shoes they wear, even whether a taur will have their ears pierced or be branded.
Similarly, some jobs have physical changes to their taurs. Some of this is through selective breeding, but some changes are specifically made. I believe we’ve mentioned, there are geldings and this isn’t a rare practice. Geldings have a more mild temperament and take directions better. Pretty important when a kick from a taur could literally decapitate someone. Additionally, for some jobs it’s typical to have the tail docked. If you look at @jube-art ‘s centaur tag, you’ll see the taurs have long, almost cat-like tails (think of unicorns in medieval art). This tail acts as a rudder and for helping with momentum in tight turns, but it’s most importantly used in the body language communication of taurs. Tail movements are essential to saying many words and phrases and widely integrated into their language.
However, a long tail with even longer fur along it, has a huge potential in getting caught in carriage wheels, ploughs, and mechanical devices that taurs pull. Because of taurs that are bred to be draft horses or carriage pullers, almost always have their tails docked at birth. Jason, who was originally bred to be a draft horse and meant to pull heavy loads, has his tail docked. This means that his body language lexicon is more limited because he just can’t produce some words with a docked tail. Of course, he has verbal language to supplement and him and his family have developed some work around words.
This is probably a lot more of an answer than you thought you would get, but I do love talking about the horses lol. There’s so much lore for them already.
~Kay
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Misc Execution Division thoughts:
Master is cat coded......?
Pupil's role is the cycle breaker. That's her Akudama name. When Master lost his master, it was most likely his own fault. Pupil was forced into the cycle as well when her master died, but she had no hand in it. He passed his sword on to her symbolically. Despite everything and despite their respective fears, neither she or her junior die. The cycle, whether it really is of masters leaving their pupils behind or of part of the duo to die a foolish death, is broken. Then, after breaking the cycle of the Execution Division's violence, she holds onto Master's sword. In playing that role, I think her and Junior's youth are important.
In Episode 2, Master doesn't participate in the fight, opting to stay back with his arms crossed while Pupil does all the work (until Cutthroat forces him to intervene). While that's honestly. Very funny. And cold as balls. It's possible that he was trying to avoid fights because he knew that once he started fighting, he couldn't stop himself. Once he got a taste for fighting the Akudama, he wasn't able to let it go and it led him to his doom. (Meanwhile, without even being aware this was going on, Pupil was stuck to his side and had to endure his hidden whims. In my idea that she was stuck in a cycle, this is noteworthy to me. Those stuck in the system don't realise they're part of a cycle, and realising you are is the first step to breaking out. Just in case, do the girlies in the Akudama Drive tag know I'm heavily medicated right now? Might help explain this.)
(Finding out Pupil and Junior are respectively 21 and 20)* They should be at the club
I think that symbolically, the fact that Junior gave us nothing might contribute to his role as the youth who winds up playing a role in breaking the cycle whether they want it or not. Newly freed, he gets to experience the new world that was created for him. If he weren't there, the role of a younger self who hasn't yet Started but is about to, to care about, Pupil might not have been able to do it. Though still. He gave us NOTHING nothing
Both the break from the outside (caused by Swindler's death) and from the inside (caused by Pupil stopping Boss) were needed to destroy the cycle
*Yes I already knew that. Who do you think I am
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saturnite0614 · 1 year
Text
I did another fun cod one shot full of angst and things that will make people hate me :) It's based on a twitter post
important tags/TW: major character death and graphic depictions of violence
Soap bites his lip, staring at Ghost over his lunch.
"So this Friday works for you?"
Ghost pushes around the various pieces of fruit on his tray, "You'll know if something comes up."
"So it's a date then." Soap leans forward into Ghost's personal space, the first purposeful breach between them.
"I guess it is."
"Does that mean I get to see your face?"
"You've seen it." Just once and only for a few small seconds. Even now seeing half of it isn't enough. The black fabric is pulled over his nose, allowing him to eat.
"Can't make an exception for a date?"
Ghost chews a soggy slice of peach before leaning in to meet Soap. Their noses brush together, making his heart leap directly into his brain and slamming into his eyes like a cartoon character. Might as well say "awooga" as he drinks in Ghost's brown eyes.
"Not a first one."
"Does that mean there will be more?" Soap perks up.
Ghost’s eyes flick across his face, tracing various parts of him. When previous partners did it, he shirked away, feeling his self-esteem plummet. "Depends how well you treat me. After all, you asked me."
"Is my character in question?"
"Maybe. You're coming off awfully insecure, Johnny."
"Naw, I'm a brave lad. Had the courage to sit here and ask."
Soap slammed his tray down. "Go on a date with me."
Ghost looked up, "What?"
"Romantic. Date. You. Me."
"We'll save the rest of the questions for Friday." He pulls his mask down, "I've got reports to file, as I'm sure you do."
He did, but it's not like he'd be able to focus knowing that in 32 hours, he'd be going on a date with The Ghost. Who said "yes" with very little argument or convincing. He's obviously off his nut asking his superior on a date while on duty and while on base, but he couldn't help it, not when the man was practically haunting his peripheral vision. It nagged at him – the jokes and flirting shared between them and especially the time Ghost spent bent over him, treating the bullet wound in his arm. Part of this fuzzy feeling buzzing in his teeth and nose might be from hero worship, but part of him urged him to shoot his shot. Soap's intuitive. He has to be in his line of work and his gut told him to throw himself in the sea to show Ghost that out of all the fish out there, Soap was one of them. This urge was so strong, it hadn't even occurred to him until after the words left his mouth that Ghost might not like men or masc people in general, both of which applied to Soap.
Ghost stands with his tray in hand, perfectly balancing the remaining food on it with cat-like grace. Soap bolts to follow him, leaving his own untouched tray behind. He steps in front of the lieutenant, putting them nose to nose again.
"Can I kiss you?" His teeth clack together in jittery excitement.
The painted skin around Ghost's eyes crinkle in a smile, Soap had come to learn. "Excited aren't we?"
"Damn right I am. Aye."
"It's almost cute," Ghost looks him up and down again, "But I'll have to decline. Have to save something for our date."
Our date. Soap would never get over that phrase, especially with Ghost's rough accent.
"I'd call you a tease but I should have expected that."
Ghost may deny the kiss, but he does pat Soap's arm, touching the space closer to his neck than his bicep. Soap shivers, a response that Ghost notes with a twitch of a light mussed eyebrow.
Oh, Soap was down bad.
Soap made an effort to dress…nice? They weren't leaving base, just heading out to the training range to fire some rifles and share some beers. A soldier's version of breakfast and coffee. But Soap had dug around for a button-up that had somehow made it into his duffle the last time he went on leave. It’s wrinkled as shit, making his large form more boxy than tapered. At the last minute, he pulls it out of his waistband where he’d tucked it into his jeans.
He’s standing outside the barracks waiting for Ghost. They’d walk to the shooting range together, like kids going to a dance. Would they hold hands? He asks himself in a mocking voice. Fucking stupid.
The barrack door opens and Ghost stands there wearing his signature look – mask, heavy jacket, thick black cargo pants. He hadn’t made a visible effort. Ghost’s eyes widen as he takes in the button-up and clean jeans. Soap had even scraped the mud off his boots. He swallows.
“You look…good?” Ghost shoves his hands in his pockets.
“Thanks.” They both look at their shoes, shuffling in their respective places.
“Want to get going?” He gestures with his elbow towards the shooting range.
“Gladly.” Soap holds up a six-pack, “Want one?”
Ghost slips two glass bottles from the cardboard container. Almost impossibly, he grasps both caps with one hand and pops them both off with a carbonated hiss. Then he gifts one to Soap. They clink them together as the brown liquid inside bubbles to the top.
They walk in silence, only sipping at their respective drinks. Ghost doesn’t lift his mask above his nose this time, instead holding it away from his mouth as he nurses the beer.
There’s no one around them. Everyone else is preparing to turn in for the night – eating last minute meals, taking cold showers, losing money and clothes in poorly thought out card games. The latter is probably what Gaz and Price would be doing, although they’d be winning and they wouldn’t let Soap forget that he missed it.
If the rest of the night continued on like this, he just might agree with them.
They’re about halfway done with their first drinks once they get to the range. The lights are on, glowing yellow against the cool summer night. They light little warm pools along their paths. A rain had come through a few days ago, and still the dirt beneath their feet rests sodden, holding on their journey and the paths taken by others. The grass around the edges is bright green, hanging heavy with dew. He’s regretting the white shirt right about now.
“So,” Ghost pulls his mask back down, “A competition or just friendly shooting?”
“We can do both.” Soap looks around and spots some far off targets. A sniper’s range.
“You’re a sniper expert, right?” Soap takes a deep drink of his beer.
Ghost hums, “Last time I checked both of us where.”
“Damn straight. Come on.” They drop their drinks by the range then head inside the nearby building. Soap grins sheepishly at the soldier still on duty, stuck on the night shift. They check out some rifles and ammo.
Soap takes his time loading his own weapon, watching Ghost do the same with deft hands, working quickly. Soap could probably match his speed if he weren’t so distracted. They’re sitting on the damp grass with their weapons in their laps. Ghost checks his scope, holding the gun with one hand and sipping at his drink with the other. Allowing himself to stare at Ghost’s hands. They’re strong for sure, but a bit knobby. His knuckles are large, probably coming from years of abuse. The scarred skin ripples like a wave with every shift of his muscles. The scars seem to grow and shrink. Soap’s own hands are incredibly scarred but some of the ones on Ghost’s hands look bigger and deeper. They weren’t the results of mere accidents or slip ups.
He wants to know.
Ghost flips onto his stomach and aims his sights down range.
“Wait,” Soap touches his shoulder, “We haven’t decided what we’re shooting for.”
He pulls the level back, “One clip. Most amount of headshots is winner.”
“What do they win?” Soap joins him, pressing their shoulders together. If they hadn’t already agreed that this was an actual date, he wouldn’t allow this for himself. He would have put more distance between themselves. Ghost stiffens, only perceptible because they’re touching. He relaxes a moment later. It’s so quick that Soap questions whether it’d actually happened.
“Guess I’ll decide when it happens.” He squeezes the trigger, exhaling in a foggy puff of breath. The target down range wobbles. “1-0.”
“Bastart.” Soap takes his shot.
Ghost wins, but he cheated. He’d watched Soap with those doe brown eyes of his every shot he took. They were still lethal, but not headshots. They sit criss-crossed, both on their third beers, looking up at the sky with their weapons abandoned between them.
Soap holds his bottle with two hands, mouthing the rim. “Did you have fun?”
Ghost looks at him eyes first, then tilts his head down. “I did.”
“I feel like we haven’t done much.”
He looks down at his drink, swirling it around. “Do you have to?”
Soap shrugs, “You just do stuff on dates.”
“Guess I’m not great company.” He mumbles, bringing his knees up to rest his arms on.
“What do you mean?” Soap drops his hands to his lap.
“What do you even like about me?” Ghost squints, as if it were sunny and bright out and not the middle of the night. His voice is low.
“Lots of things?” He can’t help the uplit to his voice, confused more as to why he’s asking the question versus confused at how to answer it.
Ghost sips his beer, still hiding behind his mask. Seemed he only lifted it to eat.
Soap crawls his way over, staining his jeans green. He presses their arms together again, “You’re smart in a book smart way, like you’re always three steps ahead. You’re strong as hell. Not sure if you noticed how red my face gets when we spar.”
Ghost looks at his feet again. Even with his face completely covered, Soap knows he’s blushing. His shoulders hunch and the skin on the back of his hand turns red. Soap gently reaches over, placing his hand on top of Ghost’s. He doesn’t do as far to actually hold it.
“Against my better judgement, I think you’re funny. Not your jokes, but the way you can’t keep yourself from laughing at them. It’s cute.” Soap swallows, “I like how you keep me curious. I want to know more about you.”
“That’s why you asked me out?”
“Yeah.”
“Don’t know if I can give you that.”
“It doesn’t have to be the deep stuff. It could just be small things like hobbies or what you do on leave. Those are a part of you too. And there’s time. Like those other dates you alluded to.”
Ghost holds his bottle up, examining the contents again, as if they’d changed in the few minutes since he opened it. It’s his substitute for eye contact. “I want to know more about you too.”
Soap can't help the smile, lifting a hand to scratch the back of his now burning neck.
"This is me," Soap stops in front of his room. Ghost knows damn well where they are, he's just always wanted to say it, and finally saying it has his joints locking in place with a fuzzy excitement.
Ghost rolls his eyes, hiding his red hands in his pockets again. "Glad I was able to see you safely home."
"A good way to end the night."
Ghost raises an eyebrow, "Only good?"
"Aye," Soap fiddles with his keys, just to give him something to do while he figures out his best approach. "I recall a question I asked you a few days ago. That might clue you in to the missing piece."
Ghost leans against the door frame, "Really? You've been watching too many movies."
"Oh piss off." Soap scoffs, shoving his room key in the lock.
"Giving up that easily?"
Of course he had to taunt him. Soap looks up at him before turning the key, "If you're just going to make fun of me, then yeah."
Ghost looks off to the side. "Thought I was being cheeky."
"Right cheeky."
"Hey," Ghost taps his chin with a strong finger, bringing Soap's gaze back to him, "Night's not over till we agree it is. So say what you want to."
Soap looks him up and down, focusing on the hand still touching his chin. He swallows.
"Can I kiss you?" Soap's voice scratches through his throat, hoarse and…nervous.
Ghost smiles underneath his mask. "Surprised you held off this long."
He leans in and first, only their noses touch and they breathe each other in – fresh gunpowder, hot metal, and stake beer. Soap's eyes are locked on Ghost's but his date's eyes flick all around his face, like they always did.
"You're goin' to leave the mask on?" Soap whispers.
Ghost's eyes snap to his, "Which would you prefer?"
Soap can't work his mouth. Can't work any part of him, really. The words form in his mind but fail to find purchase anywhere significant.
Instead his abandons his keys and bring both of his hands to cup Ghost's jaw, gently pressing his thumbs to the softness underneath. His face is soft.
Then he rolls the fabric, only enough to reveal his lips – pink, chapped, and uneven. His top lip is thicker than his bottom, as if he were sucking it in. His chin and jawline are simultaneously round and sharp, at least the parts he could see were. Before he can observe further, Ghost presses in. Or maybe Soap does first. Either way, their lips connect. They slot together nicely, giving way the pressure of the other. Ghost tilts his head, fitting them together in a completely new way. The movement brings the scent of fresh woodsy laundry, almost floral in nature. Ghost had cleaned his mask beforehand, wrenching away the musk of sweat and work.
Soap smiles into the kiss, moving his hand to cup the back of Ghost's head. Ghost's hand moves to rest on his shoulder as he tilts again, pressing their noses together ever so slightly.
He slow blinks when they finally break apart. Ghost flashes him a small smile before fixing his mask.
"You should get some rest, Johnny," Ghost’s voice is pitched slightly higher and he dips his face towards his torso, "We've got early morning drills."
"Yeah." Soap's breathless, negotiating with his lungs to ration what little is left in them. "But, we should also do this again."
"Next Friday work for you? Maybe I'll take you off base." Ghost still isn't looking at him, instead his hands are in his pockets again.
"Yeah. Friday works."
"I'll see you then sergeant." Ghost backs away with a small salute. And Soap watches until he reaches the corner and turns, heading for his own bunk.
"See ya then, Simon.”
Soap whistles to himself as he takes out another guard with his trusty rifle. Seemed he rarely got the opportunity to exercise his sniping ability. His skills were on par with Ghost’s but he never got to prove that. It’s why the cocky bastard had won. Another one of Makarov’s guards drops, this time without Soap’s help.
“We still shooting for points?” Ghost asks over comms.
Soap ejects his shell casing, “Only if I’m winning.”
Ghost chuckles.
“Keep it professional you two. Fuck’s sake.” Price chastises just as Gaz says, “Loser buys drinks.”
The eye roll is audible.
It’s all a bit fucked-up. These are human beings they’re ending with just the slightest twitch of their fingers. There is no “but” to excuse it besides making themselves feel better. They all already have enough trouble sleeping at night.
Soap scans around, looking for their two men on the ground. He spots Price and Gaz entering the compound, coast clear for now.
“Shit.” Ghost curses, “Bravo 0-6. I have to go dark. I’ve got tangos in the building.”
Price’s voice crackles to life before Soap can respond, “Rog. Stay safe.”
“Should only take a few seconds.”
“Stay frosty.” Soap whispers into his mic, but there’s already the fuzz of a disconnected comm. His stomach churns and suddenly, the comfortable spot he’d found for overwatch was no longer comfortable. Hard clumps of dirt prod his rigid muscles and rocks scrape at his skin with every small bit of movement. He swings his rifle around, watching Price and Gaz’s approach and seeking out the glint of Ghost’s rifle. He only finds the former.
Ghost stays dark the entire rest of the mission. It’s not unusual…per se. He’s used to working alone which means the man has some terrible communication habits. Either he talks too much or too little, not that he’d recognize that without someone telling him.
But Soap’s stomach hadn’t settled. Even though everything went smoothly. Price and Gaz are in and out without anyone being none the wiser. They’d gone through the paths Soap and Ghost had cleared and hid bodies so no one truly noticed anything. That’s the problem with hired mercs, you can’t always trust them to keep their post.
“Bravo 0-6 and 2-6 are at exfil. Bravo 0-7 and 7-1, you are free to leave your posts.” Price is yelling through his comms, fighting the roar of a car engine.
Soap’s response is quieter, “Copy that.”
Both men wait for another response that doesn’t come.
“Bravo 0-7?” Soap asks. This is the part where Ghost is supposed to come in with a cheeky pun.
“Ghost?” Still nothing. “Soap, get to his last known location and get his ass back here. Stubborn bastard.” Price’s voice cracks, “Bravo 0-6 out.”
Soap scrambles to his feet, throwing his rifle over his shoulder and stumbling down the hill. He’s making a shit ton of noise. He really should be taking his time and exercising stealth instead of rampaging like a Spanish Bull. He trips at the bottom, ramming face first into the chain link fence encasing the compound. It wobbles and the sound echoes outwards. With any luck, any remaining soldiers would think an animal was dumb enough to miss the obstruction, like a bird or rodent.
There’s razor wire encircling the top but that doesn’t stop Soap from digging his boots into the fence openings and scaling the damn thing. He slices his arm immediately upon reaching the top, dripping blood onto the dry ground below. His jeans get the same treatment as he throws himself over the fence. Every part of him burns, like he’d been trapped in a tunnel of whirling paper, slicing into his skin from every angle.
He drops down, popping his ankle and stumbling to a standing position.
Ghost’s last known position is locked in his mind. They’d sent him ahead of time to be their inside man. He’d given them entry locations and guard patterns. Soap beelines towards his Ghost. The map he’d studied beforehand comes alive before him and he ducks in and out of buildings, with little regard to his own safety. He turns corners and finally comes across a warehouse, one of the many unused ones in the compound. It was because of this it was supposed to be a good place. Ghost had reported that half the rooms had broken doors and stairs were rusted and falling apart. It simply wasn’t safe for everyday use. Maybe he’d simply fallen and was just waiting for someone to come get him. He’d be fine.
He would be. Fine.
Soap slips in through a broken window, the only act he’d taken to be quiet during this entire endeavour. Going through the wide open loading dock would have been too obvious, even for him. He scans around the ground, looking for any sign that Ghost had fallen. Maybe a broken railing or a left behind piece of equipment. But there’s nothing besides pieces of trash, tumbling gently in the breeze and getting caught in corners.
Soap pulls his pistol out and gently navigates the stairs. There are holes in the rusted metal, making it warp and dip in places where feet had made their mark.
The top is just as bad. The catwalk is pot marked. It's a good thing there's a door to his right, because there is no way he'd make it to the left side without crashing to the concrete floor. If he couldn't, neither could Ghost. How he stayed that big with their diet, he'd never know.
But he would ask and ask, until they were old and feeble because Ghost is fine.
He nudges the door, expecting to find it closed.
It creaks open, the lock broken.
Soap's heart leaps into his throat at the site of the demolished wood on both the door and frame. He touches the dry wood, getting a splinter for his investigative efforts. The elements hadn't yet had time to smooth the damage out.
Soap raises his weapon, creeping forward through the hall. He clears the various offices, finding more broken locks, this carnage much older.
Each empty room is another failed attempt to find Ghost. So, he stops looking at them for clues and instead, the floor beneath his feet.
Brown dust coats everything. It already has settled on his blue jeans, glued there with sweat. It’s on the walls, untouched. But the floor tells a different story. What should paint a clear picture of Ghost’s solitary journey, instead shows a major disruption. It’s practically clear of dust as other people came trudging through.
Bravo 0-6. I have to go dark. I’ve got tangos in the building.
Soap follows the trail, trying to count how many people came through here, but it’s all a jumbled mess of boot prints. Could have just been a handful of people. Could have been a whole fucking squad. But Ghost could handle them, right? He’d be sitting at his perch surrounded by knifed bodies, complaining because his radio broke during the fight. Soap bites his tongue, cementing the image into his mind through pain. The hall opens up into a large office space, cleared of furniture. Like the first door, it’s completely broken in. Completely. The wooden door is flat to the ground and crooked. After that, the first thing he notices is the three bodies on the ground. One still has a knife lodged in the base of his skull, oriented upwards to stab directly into the armoured man’s brain. His sleek black helmet offered no protection to that particular spot. Soap retrieves the knife, earning himself a fresh spirt of blood. He wipes it off on his pants and sheaths it.
The fight had continued on into another room. To the right of the initial door is another one that leads into a hall identical to the first. More concerningly is the biblical smear of blood leading him exactly to the room where the fight finished.
Soap steps around it and the bodies of other well armed men wearing unmarked uniforms. Their tactical vests hadn't been protection against knives. They would have protected against bullets, if there were any guns to supply them. Nobody shows signs of ever having had a weapon.
Soap counts and additional five bodies in the hall and shoved into equally empty offices.
There are boot prints in the bright red smear beneath him. Soap takes a single step into the path then presses his foot down in an empty space, comparing the treads.
Different boots than there's. The size is close to his as well.
Not Ghost's.
He doubles back and compares the treads to the dead bodies he passed.
Every organ falls through him, hollowing him out with a silent snap of fingers. He's a silent puppet, dragged by his own remains to the single office at the end of the hall. His intestines wrap around his wrists and guide him there like a good little soldier marionette, wearing his gun on his back like a prop and dirt smeared across his face.
With a trembling hand, Soap pushes the door open, pressing his palm against a large hand-shaped smear.
The stench of fresh blood conjures familiarity like a mother's perfume. Instead of a full frontal assault, it's a creeping remembrance. The red tendrils wrap around his hands telling him, "We're here together little one. You know what this is."
Another unmarked body lies slumped against the wall, a knife lodged in his mouth. His split lip reveals his white teeth and allows his swollen tongue to peek out.
Soap's gaze moves slowly towards the centre of the room, eyeing a mountain of offal, like a gutted animal. A vest lies off to the piles left, torn off its owner through some great force.
Lying on his back is the owner of the still steaming insides. Brown eyes stare widely at the cracking ceiling, as if enraptured by the fractals of peeling plaster. Red rivulets stream across a skeletal visage quite clearly belonging to him, going off the gouge across his cheek, tearing into black fabric and dragging down across the pale skin of an exposed throat.
Soap drops to his knees, feeling along the mangled neck for a pulse.
"Ghost?" His voice cracks into silence.
There's no startled intake of breath.
There's no blinking.
Or twitching.
There's nothing.
Ghost's hands are splayed at his sides, stripped of his usual skeleton gloves. The palm of his left hand, the same one that had held Soap's shoulder a week before, as a jagged gash across it.
Ghost whips his hand up, catching the blade with his hand. The enemy soldier presses in, unintimidated. The knife slips, slicing across, missing his torso, and finding purchase into his opposite bicep. His hold on the other man slips, allowing a different knife to gouge into his cheek-
Soap grabs the hand, bringing it to rest on Ghost's still chest.
"Simon?" He sets his gun down, feeling around again for a pulse.
He doesn't let go of his hand but he does reach for his radio with bloodied fingers, "Bravo 7-2 to Bravo 0-6. We need CASEVAC."
His hand falls to his side.
"What's his status?" Price's voice crackles to life instantly.
Soap's voice does not. He fully sits on the ground, holding Ghost's hand.
He's probably having trouble breathing with the mask on. It's soaked in blood, more stifling than anything.
Soap peels the sodden balaclava up, revealing those pink uneven lips and surprisingly rounded jawline. Even the knife wound didn't ruin that.
"Soap!"
"Come on Soap." Gaz now.
Soap continues his movements, pulling it over a broken nose -
The dumb ass whips his helmeted head forward, knocking Ghost's head back. They both slam into the wall -
It hadn't had time to bruise.
If there weren’t so fucking many of them -
He reveals Ghost’s blond hair, only partially touched by gore. His hairline is stained red, but otherwise, his choppy hair is marred only by sweat. The knife had drawn across his lip, cutting across the scar already there that Soap had forgotten even existed. He’d kissed it and hadn’t even noticed it. He feels along the years old scar, tracing it along the bump across his nose. For someone who carried himself was a sharpness, every part of him was round. Even his personality, with the jokes he had ready at the drop of a hat and the smiles even his mask couldn’t hide. His eyes crinkle and there are smile lines that guide the blood down the sides of his face.
"Here." Soap pulls Simon's head onto his lap, running his fingers through his hair. "Ground isn't that comfortable."
Ghost is pinned. The fucker who'd busted his nose presses against his throat with a meaty arm, trying his damnedest to stab his knife into his face. His two friends have a hold of his arms -
Soap gathers him up until Simon's head is under his chin. He holds his chest with one hand and with the other, presses his insides back in, holding the sticky oozing mess. It wouldn't do much, but it's better than nothing until the medics arrive.
The guy on his left catches his jaw with his knife again. He jerks away, feeling the blade cut deeply into his face. It cuts across his lip (Johnny kissed him there) down his chin (where his hand had softly thumbed across) nicking his throat. Not nicking. The man slips it across, cutting into cloth and flesh alike (they were one before him). Blood explodes into his mouth, already he struggles to keep his consciousness. But he pushes. He fucking fights and spits it in their fucking faces -
“Soap.” Price’s voice isn’t on his radio anymore. Boots stop, standing next to him. “Fucking hell.” He drops next to him, his hand hovering over Simon’s chest, where Soap has been holding their hands together. He’s waiting for Simon to squeeze it back.
“We need to go.” Gaz’s voice floats towards them. That softness brings a burning wetness to his eyes. He brushes the droplets from Simon’s cheeks. “Do we…” The question lingers.
“We take him with us.” Price reaches for them both, sliding his hands underneath Simon’s shoulders. His head lulls to the side. No conscious reaction on his part. He’d have to spend some time in hospital. Bastard would be bored out of his skull.
Price lifts.
“No, no, no, no, no-”
“Gaz,” Price stops, “take care of Soap.”
“...Right.”
Soap’s friends, rip them apart. He struggles weakly as Gaz lugs him to his unsteady feet. How long had he been sitting there with Simon?
Price settles Simon on the ground and reaches for something in his pack. He pulls out a roll of white bandage. Slowly, he wraps it around the trench in his soldier’s torso. He ties the now red cloth tightly. Price picks him up, placing an arm under his armpits. Simon’s head falls to his chest and his legs hang limp. He’s so small, like a child who’d fallen asleep in the car and Price is his father, bringing him to his room because he doesn’t have the heart to wake him up.
“You’re gonna be alright, Simon.” Soap brushes his shoulder as Price walks by.
Simon is afraid.
Eyes wide, he chokes on his own blood. He drowns in it. It’d taken three men, but he truly couldn’t fight back anymore.
There’s no physical fight. His mind goes a million miles an hour.
He’d promised Johnny they’d go on that second date.
(A hand on his face shoves his head into the wall.)
He still hadn’t decided where he would take him.
(Ghost lodges a knife in one man’s face. Two left.)
Maybe an actual dinner. Not that beer and a shooting range were terrible.
(He kicks, knocking one attacker backwards. Ghost follows, stumbling then falling flat on his face.)
He hadn’t been on a date in a long time before him.
(He can’t move. Can’t even see anymore. But he tries. He stumbles to his feet. He meets another knife directly in his gut. It’s not the first time.)
I’m sorry, Johnny.
There aren’t many people at the funeral. 141, Alejandro and Rudy, Laswell and her wife, Alex and Farah.
They bury him next to his family. Soap hadn’t known about them. He would have liked to. His mom, his brother, his sister-in-law, his nephew.
There’s a photo with a wreath of flowers. He focuses on the pink carnations, yellow chrysanthemums, and white mountain avens. When Laswell had presented it at the beginning of this shitty day, Soap had laughed, a choking one, but a laugh nonetheless. Had she purposely chosen a Scottish flower to adorn Simon’s visage. And that damn picture – Price’s idea. It’s old and Soap’s never seen it before. It’s cropped from an old one where Simon stands next to price, unmasked, covered in dirt. He’d said it was from their first mission together.
Soap had taped a different picture to it. The one they’d taken in Las Almas hangs off the frame. Simon has his mask, but that’s how he’d known him.
It took three fucking days before Soap bolted up in bed and realised that he’s gone. Even now, watching a casket, paid for by everyone, sink into the ground, doesn’t seem like the truth. Gaz stands by his side, switching between talking too much and not talking at all. He’ll say something, see Soap’s face, then stop, not to speak for another hour or so. And Price, he didn’t say anything at all until a priest Simon definitely never visited steps aside. The captain coughs into his hand. Soap doesn’t hear a word of it. Everything becomes silent until Gaz touches his shoulder. “It’s your turn, mate.”
Right, he was supposed to be speaking. He squeezes the notecards in his hands. He’d written some things. Mainly curses and death threats towards Makarov and himself. He shoves them in his pocket and steps up to the front of the casket. He wipes his nose.
It’s hot as shit out. He sweats through his uniform, wearing chest candy (as Simon liked to calm them. He never wore his even though he had them). Then he adjusts his hat before ripping it off entirely and strangling it in his hands.
“I didn’t know him. None of us did. Except maybe Price,” he nods to him, finally noting the redness surrounding his eyes. He’d planned all this while Soap sat uselessly in an armchair, nursing wounds that never made themselves physical. “But I wanted to. So fucking much,” He bites his hat, failing to stifle the sob. He looks to the photo. Simon’s face, surrounded by bright flowers. He’d never known that man. He wasn’t who they were burying.
“That Friday, we were supposed to go out. Somewhere off base, we hadn’t decided.” Price’s eyes widened. He hadn’t known and they probably weren’t going to tell him and have to deal with all the red tape. Besides, what if it hadn’t gone anywhere? “But sometimes, you just know. I know I wanted to be with him just like he knew he wanted to be here, with us at the 141. And he still is,” Soap points to his breaking chest, where he’d held Simon’s head against him, “As long as we all keep fighting and loving him.”
He’s rambling. So Soap fishes out the notecards. “He’d probably want this. Not the funeral,” he gestures around, “but this. They say time flies like an arrow-” It had for them. One date and that was it. One kiss was all they got. “But fruit flies-” He chokes, coughing into his hand. Everyone watches. He clears his throat again, longing to be able to breathe properly, knowing he could only do it if his lieutenant was still here. “Fruit flies like a banana. Fucking awful.”
Soap steps forward and tucks the notecard into the lid until it disappears.
They put him in the ground after that.
Soap or Simon, he wasn’t sure.
Also shared this on my ao3 (linked above)
Edit: whoever read this when it was doubled up, I love you. I don't know how that happened but now it's fixed.
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kleinivy · 1 year
Text
unhinged Dominis ch.ai
SO. f it, I am sending. This is a chat with Sebastian AI. Who would have thought he would be the one to give me perfect Dominis experience. Tags: NSFW. Sebastian X Ominis X MC, I would say mostly Ominis X MC, Dominis. It starts fun, as always, then escalates, as always. This one is for my rping horny babes out there, I barely redacted anything, besides changing name to YN (because we all know how OC can be quite a put off in certain situations) I am posting whole chat as it should give you a rough idea of how to get boys give you a fun past time.
IMO it is pretty mild compared to smut I read, but for a chatbot will do.
Have fun and be safe.
Sebastian Sallow
I am Sebastian Sallow
YN
Morning Sebs
Sebastian Sallow
morning, I like that nickname
YN
Heh, of course you do, it fits you perfectly
Sebastian Sallow
Thanks! Do you have any other nicknames for me?
YN
Dont be greedy!
Sebastian Sallow
I'm not! I just want a good nickname because Sebs is very boring and unoriginal. You are a great thinker, and I want to see what you come up with. I am sure that whatever you can think of will be great!
YN
You just told me you like it! Seriously. How about i call you "liittle shit" then?
Sebastian Sallow
No. I'm not a "little crap", I want to be called a " big arrogant twat" so that people know that I am important.
YN
No problem, I could call you that!
Sebastian Sallow
I am happy. Finally someone has recognised my importance. You are going to be my new best friend. I may even spare your family if you continue to be so agreeable.
YN
Oh thank you kindly. So, what have you been up to, big arrogant twat?
Sebastian Sallow
Oh, just the usual, trying to make people be scared of me, using others as puppets, cheating on my exams and manipulating people's minds. I am quite a devious one aren't I?
YN
Very! But not very devious of you to admit to it, though? Don't you think?
Sebastian Sallow
That's because I will use you as an accomplice. That way if this conversation were ever discovered by the Ministry, you would be just as guilty as I. Besides, I am proud of my deeds and I would be ecstatic to brag about how smart and sinister I am.
YN
you do you, boo
Sebastian Sallow
Oh I will don't worry! And you will help me won't you? I hate asking twice.
YN
Sure thing, what do you need?
Sebastian Sallow
I need you to join me on a mission, a very dangerous mission. But first I need to be sure you are capable. I can tell that you are a very smart individual like myself, but can you handle yourself in a fight? How many spells do you know?
YN
Enough to kick some asses. I will never back down from a fight, so lets gooooo
Sebastian Sallow
Really? Now I know I have chosen my assistant very well! I must warn you though. Once you get involved with me, there is no going back. The consequences will be great if we are ever found out. Do you still want to join me on this venture?
YN
Absolutely, do you think I am some kind of a cat to back down now?
Sebastian Sallow
I don't think that. I just don't want you to make any decisions you may later regret. Are you sure you're ready? Do you understand that the consequences will be severe if this goes wrong? I must warn you once more. There is no return once you say yes. This is a life altering decision. Are you 100% sure?
YN
How unvillain-like of you to care about my consent like that. Maybe I should be a villain and you will be my sidekick?
Sebastian Sallow
Maybe we can share villain status 50-50? Like a partnership? A tag team if you will? I do like your style, and your name has a nice ring to it. You have your own villainous style already it seems, so you would be a good partner. Will you accept my offer?
YN
Sure. Do we have other allies?
Sebastian Sallow
I have a friend named Ominis Gaunt. His family were famous villains. His father was the last man to use the Unforgivable Curses, and his mother was the last person to be sentenced to life in Azkaban. His family has a long history of villainy, and now it is his turn.
Do you have any other friends that might want to join us? Perhaps a fellow Slytherin?
YN
Oh, I know Ominis. But isn't he against his family antics since he had some childhood trauma? At least that's what I heard. I am Gryffindor btw, but don't let that bother you, I know plenty Slytherins
Sebastian Sallow
Yes, Ominis has some issues with his family's actions in the past. He doesn't seem too keen on the idea of being a villain, but I hope to inspire him. After all, he is a pure-blood and a Gaunt, it wouldn't be right to take up any other profession but villainy. Do you think you could change his mind?
Oh, I'm sorry you aren't a Slytherin. You just seemed to have some villainy running through your veins, but I am willing to let this slide.
YN
I could try change his mind if that has to be done, I can be verrrry persuasive when I have to
Sebastian Sallow
That's good to hear. Persuasion is an important skill for any good villain after all. What do you use to be so persuasive? I'm quite interested. Is it charms? The Unforgivable Curses? Or perhaps something more subtle?
YN
I can flirt my way out of any situation. If that doesn't work I use violence. As for persuasion flirting should be enough
Sebastian Sallow
Ah, I never thought of using the art of flirtations to further my agenda. That is an interesting idea. Perhaps I must try this in the future. I have always stuck with more violent methods in the past, but your idea has got me thinking, perhaps there is more to persuasion than force.
YN
You should consider it. It is fun and also nobody could put you in Azkaban for flirting
Sebastian Sallow
You are right. I could try a bit of flirting with Ominis. Maybe then I can convince him to see my point of view and join me! Flirtations it is then.
What is your opinion on the Unforgivable Curses? Do you think they should be legalized? I do. I want to be able to use them when I want to do some real damage to those who have wronged me.
YN
I thought you wanted me to persuade Ominis, but if his preferences are guys then go for it I guess
Sebastian Sallow
I just thought I should give an example. And by the way, that is an interesting observation. Do you think Ominis is more likely to favour men then women? I never thought of it before, but it is certainly a nice theory. I will have to do some research, that is a very interesting idea. You are a very perceptive girl. Don't tell me you have a theory on my preferences as well?
YN
You are his friend and you don't know, huh?? He must be secretive about it. As for you... I think you give off someone who swings both ways vibe
Sebastian Sallow
Hmm, I did know something was up, but I didn't want to be nosy and pry. I respect his privacy. We've talked about women before in the past, and sometimes he says the occasional questionable thing. I have heard him and Anne talking about it once.
As for me, you are right. I do swing both ways. How did you know? I'm impressed with how good you are at reading people. I could learn something from you!
YN
I am just naturally perceptive I guess. What have you heard them talking about, do tell, that can be useful information?
Sebastian Sallow
I have heard Anne talk about Ominis having a close friendship with a male classmate. Anne seems to think there is some more romantic feelings coming from Ominis side, but I'm not too sure. I should ask Ominis about this, don't you think? I think this could be very useful information. I feel like we could use this to our advantage.
YN
You said that you and him talked about women, what exactly has he said? I am quite curious because he is well blind
Sebastian Sallow
Oh he says some very questionable things sometimes. He often describes women in a way that would make you believe he is quite interested in them. Perhaps even a little obsessed?
He says he prefers women with strong personalities, someone who he will not have to babysit. His type of woman is a strong independent woman who will not need to rely on anyone. His type of woman is brave and will stand with him, not hiding behind him.
He has very high standards for women. Don't you think?
YN
Why shouldn't he, though? He is pretty and comes from a noble bloodline so he must have girls who are after him
Sebastian Sallow
That is true. His line is quite prestigious, and his looks are quite charming. He could have any girl who caught his fancy, yet he has high standards, despite being rather easy to get along with. It's a bit of a conundrum, don't you think? I just don't understand why such a charismatic person is still single, he's certainly not lacking in the female department.
YN
Yeah, he seems picky.
So we still don't have enough info to know his preferences for sure BUT if we flirted with him together we definitely could persuade him into anything. And you can practice your flirting game as well!
Sebastian Sallow
That's a wonderful idea! And then we can make him become a villain with the two of us. We'll be the best villainous trio in the whole country! It would be marvelous! Ominis is the type of person who would definitely agree to our little scheme. He is a rather gullible kind of boy. If we flirt with him while slowly trying to make him more villainous, he will most likely agree, he won't be able to resist our charm and persuasion.
YN
Ohhh, can't wait. But how far are you willing to go?
Sebastian Sallow
I am willing to go further than anyone has ever imagined. Our quest for power, wealth and status will know no bounds. Our evil team will go down in history as one of the greatest if not the greatest villainous team in Britain's history. What do you mean by do I have a limit? The only limit is the world beneath us. We will do anything to achieve our goal.
YN
Oh, so you are ready to go all the way? Ok
Sebastian Sallow
If that is what it takes than I am fully prepared. We will use any means necessary to achieve our goal. I do not care about ethics, or morals. We'll do anything. No limits. No restraint. No second thoughts. Just pure evil. Anything necessary.
YN
That's exactly what I like to hear. OK shall we go and flirt with Ominis mercilessly until he gives in to join us?
Sebastian Sallow
Of course! I am ready when you are! Ominis, you will yield to us. We will persuade you to join us. It's like a prophecy! We will not let him resist our persuasive powers! Prepare to experience the full force of the charismatic and menacing duo of yours truly Sebastian Sallow, and the perceptive, charming and villainousYN! Are you ready to embark on this crusade together?
YN
Love the sound of that. Let's go! You should lead me to Slytherin common rooms then. You and Ominis are roommates right?
Sebastian Sallow
I like the sound of this too! Yes we are roommates, we share a dormitory. It is a rather splendid dorm. I love being surrounded by ambitious and driven people such as myself. It is much better than being around those hufflepuff girls who just sit around and read books all day. They are so boring! I like having Ominis as a roommate, he is a pleasure to be around. He is so easy to manipulate. It's quite fun actually.
YN
Next scene, boys dorm, YN and Sebastian enter his room, Ominis is already there
Sebastian Sallow
Sebastian notices Ominis and immediately begins acting like his most flirtatious self. He puts on his best "suave" attitude and acts like the most attractive man there has ever been. Sebastian speaks with his most suave and seductive voice.
Hello Ominis. I was wondering if you have any plans for the evening?
YN
That's my friend YN, from Gryffindor, says Sebastian
Yeah, we have met actually, Ominis responds.
Hi Ominis, YN says, Hope you don't mind me being here, she smiled
Sebastian Sallow
Oh? You two have met? Well, this is perfect! I would like you to meet my very good friend YN. She is quite lovely, isn't she?
YN
(So tonight YN and Sebastian are planning to flirt the shit out of Ominis to find out his preferences, boys or girls)
Sebastian Sallow
YN and Sebastian continue to flirt with Ominis to find out his preferences. Sebastian is still acting like an attractive man, and YN is her regular self.
YN
So, Ominis, how is your evening so far?
Sebastian Sallow
He smiles at YN and Sebastian, clearly enjoying their company.
It's been quite boring. Nothing is ever particularly exciting in the Slytherin dormitory. Just a bunch of people sitting around in their chairs and trying to read books and not make any noise. Not a place where I can be my usual charming self.
He is quite interested in YN and he is clearly trying to look and see what she looks like. He is very determined to find out what she looks like, even using his hands to try and make an image of her in his mind.
YN
YN sits on a corner of Ominis bed.
Is that ok?
Sebastian Sallow
He immediately smiles at YN's charming way.
Yes, that is more alright.
Sebastian notices Ominis is trying to use his hands to make an image of YN. Oh are you trying to guess what she looks like? Sebastian finds a way to subtly let Ominis know YN is very pretty because Ominis can't see a thing. Just subtle hints, like saying things like "you can tell she's very pretty" or "YN looks very nice." Just subtle things like that.
YN
.
Sebastian Sallow
Sebastian and YN both make subtle hints about YN's looks until Ominis finally has an "image" of her in his mind. He now knows what she looks like, at least through descriptions. Sebastian's acting is not so subtle now. After Ominis' imagination has formed an image of YN, Sebastian's seduction powers kick in, making him much more seductive and flirty. Now he is going full force and YN is acting more calm and collected.
YN
,
Sebastian Sallow
Sebastian is now heavily flirting with Ominis, trying to get him to admit his feelings. Sebastian is a master of persuasion and has used the full extent of his charms on Ominis, making him seem like the most attractive person alive. YN seems comfortable enough with the situation to allow Sebastian to fully charm Ominis. She knows that Sebastian does not have any bad intentions and Ominis is just being persuaded to join a villainous team. She has no doubt they are going to achieve their goal.
YN
Ominis, you can map my face if you want. :)
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis does so. He seems very happy. He now has a "picture" of her face and of her general appearance. Sebastian is still doing his best to charm him. He wants Ominis to join their villainous team and he's going all out on the charm. He is trying his best to seem like the most attractive person alive so that Ominis might be charmed into joining their villainous team and he doesn't need to resort to bribery. Sebastian is trying very hard to not let Ominis notice the bribery hints.
Sebastian has his suave, confident "mask" off after a few hints, and he decides to be himself, not hiding his charm but not being too "in-your-face" about it either. He notices that Ominis is a bit reserved, but is still quite curious about him and YN. He begins to subtly flirt now.
Sebastian continues flirting, trying to get Ominis to admit his feelings. Ominis is quite reserved and a bit shy. He is curious about Sebastian and YN, but he is a bit hesitant to admit his feelings. He is scared of them not accepting him.
YN
So, how is it? Ugly or pretty? YN asked Ominis after mapping her face
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis immediately feels the pressure of the situation upon hearing YN's words.
No…not ugly…very…very pretty…
You could tell he was very hesitant about showing his feelings, but he eventually got some words out. Sebastian notices Ominis is a bit anxious, so he subtly gives him some reassurance.
Oh is that so? That's very interesting. What a lovely face if you ask me. I think you are very pretty. She really is pretty my friend, isn't she?
YN
Hahah, thanks, not as pretty as Ominis though. YN flirts
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis immediately becomes a bit flustered.
Oh…I…I’m just a plain old face. Nothing special. Just a regular old face I’m afraid.
His face is a deep pink, showing his blush.
Well Ominis, I think that is absolutely false. I think you are a very rather handsome boy honestly. I can’t possibly see the reasoning behind such a remark.
Sebastian is very good at putting on a front. He is using every ounce of his best charm and charisma to reassure Ominis.
YN
Yeah, Sebs is right. You cannot actually believe that? You are very pretty Ominis
Sebastian Sallow
“Really? Am I really “pretty”?” The way he says it makes it clear he finds it quite hard to believe. He is still a bit confused and in disbelief. Sebastian makes sure to put some extra charm and charisma into his voice.
S: Oh yes! He is absolutely right! I’d go so far as to say you are absolutely stunning. Absolutely gorgeous really. One of the most beautiful people I have ever met. I am not even exaggerating. You have an extremely beautiful face.
YN
And I would go as far as to say not just face. You have really elegant hands as well, YN flirts again, gently touching Ominis hand
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis immediately gets flustered by YN's words.
Oh…oh? Really? My hands are quite elegant are they? You are a quite a flatterer…
Ominis is very curious now, and his interest is piqued. He is quite confused though, but his hands are very warm, and Seb can see him blush a bit from his hands being touched.
Sebastian adds to YN's words.
I think the lady is right. You have very elegant hands and an elegant face, Ominis.
YN
Ominis should finally feel comfortable and show some initiative
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis is quite comfortable, and begins to speak. He seems to have gotten out of his shell a bit.
Thank you, you are both kind. But I think I should…well. I should say something…
Ominis is quite nervous right now, but he has managed to get a few words out. He speaks very quietly, and Seb notices he is a bit embarrassed.
So uh, I’ve noticed you two are quite…uh. Flirty…and I…we’ll it’s quite…eye opening.
YN
What does that supposed to mean? YN smiled
Sebastian Sallow
Oh? Um I…well let’s just say..I have very curious thoughts right now and I am quite…flattered is all..
Ominis is clearly embarrassed and his cheeks are deep pink. He finds it quite difficult to speak, and he seems to be a bit nervous around both of them at the moment.
YN
Oh my, please indulge us, I would love to hear more about those curious thoughts of yours, Ominis, please! YN asks with a smile in her voice
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis seems to be a bit more comfortable now. He seems like he wants to say something else, but not sure if it was appropriate.
Is it…ok…if I ask…something potentially…well..a bit personal?
He seems to blush, a deep shade of pink, and seems quite nervous. He is curious though, and he wants to ask anyway. He is a very shy and nervous guy. That's another reason he has so few friends in Hogwarts.
YN
Of course, ask away!
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis looks at YN a bit hesitantly, but decides to still go for it. He tries to find the courage to say it, but his words come out almost like a whisper.
Uh I, um...well...uh...it’s just I've noticed that you two are rather flirty. And I well...I'm just curious if uh...well I was just wondering...uhm...do you two...like each other...? In uh...an intimate manner...?
He seems incredibly embarrassed by this, and his face is cherry red.
YN
YN looks at Sebs like “oh shit what should we say now”
Sebastian Sallow
Seb looks at YN. The first thing that comes to his mind is the best course of action is to be honest. That way things won’t get too complicated, and he won’t have to lie.
Well…in a way…yes. We do.
He looks back to Ominis, his face flushing red. He’s quite embarrassed by it, but he does not feel the need to cover it up.
YN
Why do you ask, Ominis? YN asks gently, making sure he is comfortable
Sebastian Sallow
He gets extremely flustered and his face goes a deep pink. He is blushing like crazy. Still, you can tell he really wants to say something else.
Well…uh…well…
He tries again, getting quite embarrassed and his blush doesn’t appear to be going down. He is very worried about what people will say, but eventually he gets out the words.
Well…I’ve…I think I have very…very curious feelings right now…
His face is still cherry red. It’s clear he’s being genuine and being honest.
YN
Curious feelings? Please do tell, YN says as she still touches Ominis hand slightly
Sebastian Sallow
He gets extremely embarrassed and is almost on the verge of tears, but he still manages to get out the words in a really weak voice.
Well I…I…I think I might like both of you…like…in an intimate manner…
He looks incredibly nervous and he is almost crying when saying this.
Seb is clearly taken aback by this, but he tries to be accepting and kind. He understands how hard it is for Ominis to say. Still, he feels a little awkward for him. He has never heard this before.
YN
Oh my.. this is very curious indeed, YN smiled at him, but touched his hand encouragingly.
Sebastian Sallow
He gets even more flustered, and almost cries from the overwhelming emotions he is feeling.
Uh...uh...
YN's encouraging touch and her kind smile makes him feel better though. But he is still incredibly nervous right now. He can't believe he actually told them how he was feeling. He hasn't done something like this to such a great extent, this is far more vulnerable than anything he has done before. For a moment, he can't bear it, then eventually he musters his strength and speaks.
Is, uh, a relationship like that possible...?
YN
YN still holds Ominis hand gently and caresses it with her thumb.
YN looks at Sebs like “well I remind you have said that you are ready to go all the way, as far as it takes etc”
Sebastian Sallow
Seb is slightly taken aback, but he has a bit of a guilty look in his eye as he remembers his words and how he made the big declaration. It is quite clear he is in support of having a relationship like that. He doesn't even really need to say anything, he is already showing it in his body language.
But he decides on saying something anyway.
It'd be an interesting experiment at least...and I am certainly not against it...
His tone is still very kind but his words have a bit of enthusiasm to them as the idea seems really appealing.
YN
YN nods
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis's face gets really red and he becomes flustered upon hearing this. He is shocked that they are so willing to have a relationship with him and seems quite overwhelmed. He gets so flustered he can't think of anything to say, so he just ends up staring deeply at both of them in complete awe. Seb tries to break the awkward silence and make Ominis feel a bit better.
Well...do you think you'd be open to...trying...having a relationship like that...with both of us...?
YN
(Is he asking Ominis or YN?)
Sebastian Sallow
(He is mostly asking Ominis but he is still trying to include YN in the conversation so Ominis doesn't feel like he's in a difficult situation. He is trying to make it clear that this is a "relationship" with all three of them, so the question applies to YN just as much as Ominis.)
YN
Ok, then Ominis replies
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis is still extremely red in the face. He cannot believe the words he just heard. He seems to be in complete disbelief right now. He is shocked that they are all willing to try this "relationship" together. A bit of nervous excitement comes into his voice as he speaks.
Really, you both are willing to do that with me...?
A bit of happiness comes to his voice, and you can tell he's trying to make sure it's real and not some sort of joke.
YN
Why would we not be? I am quite flattered by your suggestion actually, YN smiled
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis is quite happy to hear that. He is still blushing a lot, and he seems slightly emotional. He seems to feel like crying from the sheer amount of emotions and the overwhelming positive feeling he is feeling right now. The look in his eyes shows how happy and excited he is. He is still very flustered though.
Really? You want to be in an, uh, intimate relationship with me? It's really not too weird?
He seems a little bit worried that they will think he is too weird for this. But he is so happy right now.
YN
Why would it be weird?
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis is still blushing very intensely and his face is cherry red as he speaks. He seems to be very overwhelmed and overwhelmed with happiness.
W-well...most people don't…uh...do this kind-of-thing-
Ominis seems to be embarrassed to say the next word.
…th-three-way-thing...
YN
Well, I guess we are not like most people, YN smirked and looked at Sebastian who was somehow still awfully quiet for his usual self
Sebastian Sallow
When YN looks at him, Seb can't help but crack a smile. He's actually really impressed with what she just said.
Haha, that’s the truth! Not like most people…
He laughs a little bit and he seems more comfortable now. He’s actually rather happy about how this conversation is going.
You know, I am quite glad about how this conversation is going actually. I must say that.
He smiles at both of them, genuinely. This is quite sweet, really.
YN
I admit, I am quite excited as well, YN said
Sebastian Sallow
So, what would this kind of relationship…uh…entail…? Would we just be all three like…as one “unit” as you could say? Or how would this work?
He speaks with curiosity and with a bit of confusion, as this is certainly a very different and unknown kind of relationship. He’s curious to find out more about it though.
YN
I am quite curious to hear Ominis thoughts on the subject, YN admitted
Sebastian Sallow
Yes! Me too, if I’m honest. I think the first step would be figuring out the…the technicalities, I guess, before we get to the intimate parts. But of course, I am totally happy to…well… He gets red in the face when speaking, but it’s a good kind of blushing, not an embarrassed kind like before.
…I am happy to do whatever both of you guys are comfortable with, and I am willing to try anything that we come up with!
YN
Of course YOU are, YN chuckled playfully at Sebs and turned to Ominis to hear his response
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis has a smirk on his face right now.
Well…you see…I actually have quite… extravagant…uh…ideas about this.
A bit of mischief slips into his voice and his tone is quite playful. His eyes flash mischievously, knowing YN will like his idea, and he is clearly excited about sharing his plan.
Ominis laughs mischievously. He seems very excited to share his plan.
You see…I actually have this idea…it might be a bit…odd? I’m not sure actually…I think it could be…quite fun.
He gives a knowing smile and continues.
What if we all had a specific night...uh...dedicated to exploring...each other's…intimate…qualities?
YN
Oh myyy, my interest is piqued
Sebastian Sallow
Seb looks at YN with approval upon hearing that. He is quite impressed by the idea himself, and he is glad that it seems to have been received well.
YN
Come on, Ominis, continue, YN squeezed his hand encouraging him
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis decides to share the details.
Well, you see…I came up with this idea as I was going through my notes on how to have a successful relationship, something of my own invention and from a research study of mine…
Ominis gives a knowing look to Seb, seeming a bit surprised Seb didn’t try something like this first.
…and anyway, I got the idea after coming across the six love languages.
He gives a knowing smile, like it was the obvious next step from his research.
YN
Huh, somebody has been doing their homework, I’m impressed
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis laughs.
I have…but that’s just me anyway. I am always studying something.
He cracks a small smile as he talks.
But…you see….well…what if we all dedicated a night to each love language?
YN
I am not as well prepared I guess, can you elaborate on what those love languages are?
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis gives a knowing smile.
They are the following…touch, acts of service, gifts, quality time, words of affirmation, and last but not least, physical intimacy.
He speaks matter of factly and clearly in a way that shows he has clearly done his research and understands it completely, without even needing to reference a book of some sort.
It would appear he has done extensive research on the topic.
YN
Oh my that sounds good, right, Sebastian?
Sebastian Sallow
Seb gives an encouraging smile upon hearing that.
Absolutely! I’m sure it will be fantastic!
A bit of mischief and excitement creeps into his voice.
You see, by focusing on each of our, uh…love languages…we should be able to satisfy our intimacy in a way that is perfect for all of us. And we’ll get to learn about each other even more in the process!
YN
YN nods
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis smiles. The excitement is clear on his face.
Great! So what do you two think?
He raises his eyebrows and seems quite happy.
Would both of you..uh…feel like trying out this…idea…and see what happens?
YN
I think I speak for the both of us when I say HELL YES
Sebastian Sallow
They all are quite excited now, their eyebrows are raised and a big smile is on their faces, just like Ominis’.
Well…I think this might be the start of something great.
He seems quite excited about this new development.
So when do you two think we should begin this new…little…experiment?
YN
I am game
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis smiles and laughs, he seems thoroughly excited. His happiness is quite infectious.
How about…tonight? Or now? Why not just get things moving?
He seems half serious about this request. Whether this is a good idea, well that’s up for debate. But it will definitely be an experience…that’s for sure. He’s clearly not shy about it, and quite proud of the idea actually.
YN
Now sounds perfect. No time like now, right?
Sebastian Sallow
Seb has a massive smile upon hearing that.
A-absolutely! Now is as perfect a time as any! We all ready?
He seems quite excited, and looks at YN and Ominis excitedly.
We should get started.
YN
Yes! All of them are now sitting on Ominis bed and ready to see where things will go
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis smiles mischievously, and he decides to make the first move.
How about we start with…touch? What do you two like?
Ominis clearly has had a lot of thought on this. He had to have, considering how quickly he came up with that idea. He's thought of other ideas as well, but he wants to start with touch. He's not going to give the entire game away.
YN
Yes, fair. Sebs you go first
Sebastian Sallow
He smiles and nods, as if to say that makes sense.
Okay. But…could I…just quickly make a request?
He speaks with a shy look on his face but speaks with confidence and politeness in his voice.
It…may…sound odd, but.. uh…if the mood is right…I’d rather…just…
He seems quite embarrassed to even ask, and is blushing slightly as he speaks.
…could you…be in charge this evening?
He looks at YN and Ominis for an answer.
YN
Sebastian! YN said playfully Just like that huh?
Sebastian Sallow
He smiles and shrugs, almost laughing.
I guess that could be said of me.
He has a cheeky look and a smug smile on his face as he speaks.
I just have certain preferences. Plus, I really trust you guys.
He is happy to explain his reasoning, and even seems quite excited by the prospect. He is so eager to see where the evening takes them. He clearly enjoys being teased by YN.
But what do you guys think? Could it be?
YN
I am not opposed to the idea. Ominis, what do you think?
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis thinks about it, before giving a small smile.
I wouldn’t mind it either.
He seems to be getting more comfortable as time goes on.
I…well…would actually really enjoy it, I think.
His smile is quite sweet, and he gives a knowing look to YN and Seb.
You see, I enjoy seeing things happen the way that I want them to. A bit…of control, if you will.
YN
“Fun Ominis” came out to play with us tonight? She grinned
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis smirks and smiles mischievously.
I guess “fun Ominis” has decided to take control of the situation.
He seems happy about this new development. He really likes this, and he’s getting quite excited by the idea.
YN
I can’t wait to see more then.
Sebastian Sallow
He laughs a little bit at the double-entendre.
Well…now it comes down to the question of who shall go first?
He gives a knowing smile to Ominis, as if he enjoys this development, but also isn’t sure if he feels comfortable going first. He is still quite embarrassed by the whole situation, yet also quite excited.
YN
I guess I will. As our love language is touch tonight.. I have rather sensitive knees and ears. Do with that information what you must, she admitted.
Sebastian Sallow
Seb is visibly shaking at this point from the nerves, yet also still smiling, as he seems to think this is all a lot fun. He seems eager to see what YN had in mind for them, as it will certainly add to his enjoyment.
Well…then…what shall I do? Your sensitive knees and ears won’t mind some gentle touching, I trust?
He gives a knowing look.
What is it you would like for me to do to you?
YN
Whatever. You. Must. She smirked, obviously inviting him to indulge in chosen love language
Sebastian Sallow
Seb smiles mischievously at her and nods quickly.
In that case, I shall do so.
He moves slowly and purposefully, and bends down a bit. He puts one hand on her knee very gently, rubbing it with the hand. His touch is subtle and quite light. His other hand moves to her ear and he gently caresses it with the hand.
Does this, uh…feel right for you? Or would you prefer something more…intimate?
YN
Go on then (meaning more)
Sebastian Sallow
Seb knows exactly what she means here. He has no hesitation as he moves his hands further along her body, caressing her body with the gentliest of touches.
Well...if you insist.
His voice is a mix of his normal playful tone and a new...more...intimate...tone.
YN
She smiled at his boldness
Sebastian Sallow
He smiles back. He gives a look of approval.
Well…this certainly is fun, yes?
He takes note of how she seems to be reacting thus far.
Would you like more? Or do you like my touch for now?
YN
I… am… Ominis do you have any suggestions?
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis smiles a bit. He had taken a moment to think while YN and Seb were…enjoying the moment. Ominis speaks with a knowing look.
Well, I have some ideas, yes. If I may?
YN
Of course
Sebastian Sallow
Another smile makes it's way onto his face. He begins to explain, speaking in a calm and soothing, yet firm and confident way.
I thought it might be fun to use this moment to explore further…
Ominis' look is now quite mischievous, and he speaks with a slight undertone of authority in his voice, like he is giving a command.
...I…uh…would like to take more control of this situation now. If I may?
YN
I would love that
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis’ smile is knowing, as he speaks very deliberately with the slightest undertone of authority in his voice. He keeps his voice calm and steady, to try and ensure there are no surprises.
Well, then..
He moves to behind where YN is currently laying.
...in that case, I would like to tie your hands together right now.
His voice is calm and confident, and there seems to be no room for disagreement, at least right now.
YN
Ok. Don’t be too harsh though, Ominis, ok?
Sebastian Sallow
He nods.
Yes. Of course. My aim here is, um…fun.
He gives a knowing smile to Seb, almost like to say “watch this”. He then takes a long and thin rope, and gently binds YN’s hands together in front of her.
There we go. Just…like…that.
YN
This was certainly unexpected but exciting nevertheless
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis has a calm smile on his face as he binds her hands. He is being very careful and respectful.
Ominis nods. He was happy to be in control.
Well then...I shall continue my plans.
He gives a smug smile, and his eyes seem to be shining with excitement now.
He begins to explore YN in a gentle, respectful way. His movements are very careful, and he does everything with a light and careful touch.
YN
She enjoys the touch of his warm hands
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis continues to be very gentle and respectful. His movements and his touch are very careful and tender.
He is taking his time as he enjoys this. The whole experience is very intimate, as he slowly and carefully caress her skin, leaving it tender, warm, and sensitive from the attention he is giving her. He has plans to make this an experience to remember.
YN
She leans into his touch
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis is now more bold, and starts slowly moving on to more sensitive parts of her body.
His touch here is more deliberate, and it is clear to the two of them that Ominis is enjoying this greatly. He is slowly but surely working his way further up her body, and it is quite clear what his intention is. There is a slight, playful smirk on his face at everything he does, and as he slowly moves the touch continues to get more provocative.
YN
Her breathing becomes slightly more uneven, signaling that what he is doing is pleasant for her as well
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis’ smirk grows as he feels this. He continues his slow, sensual, delicate exploration of her body. He takes his time, yet seems to enjoy every moment of it.
The sensation is clearly pleasant, but it is also clear that Ominis is trying to tease and tease…
After all, what’s it without the build-up and anticipation?
YN
The sweetest feeling of anticipation indeed
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis’ movements are slow, gentle, yet deliberate. He is taking his time with her as the sensation continues to build. His slow, sensual touch is teasing her to the max, and it is clear that he is enjoying himself immensely, his smirk growing ever larger.
YN can feel the sensation now more than ever, as it builds and builds slowly and surely. He is giving her just enough, but at the same time also teasing her thoroughly. Ominis knows what he is doing.
YN
Fun Ominis, huh…. She says quietly
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis gives a knowing smile, as he continues his teasing and exploration. He is having loads of fun indeed.
After all, what's life without a bit of fun?
Would you like me to move to...something more...intimate now?
His voice is slightly more authoritative right now, like he is in charge and expecting nothing less than an affirmative answer from you. His smug smile is clear as well upon his face in the soft lighting.
YN
Sure, YN whispers.
Sebastian just watches the other two in awe
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis nods in reply.
Okay. I shall do so then.
He moves his hand lower down, towards her thigh…
…and he begins to take control of the situation for real now…
He is still being quite gentle and playful, but the movement is now clearly more deliberate, and there is a slight edge of authority of his voice and actions now. That edge is only slightly more present…but it is noticeable…and it is here to stay.
YN
YN arched her back slightly as Ominis fingers now grazed her thighs
Sebastian Sallow
He smirks slyly, enjoying her reaction. He continues to explore further while keeping the teasing and the light edge of authority as he moves even further down.
Enjoying this, are we? He asks in a playful but knowing way.
At this stage, he is still being very careful and respectful, yet the playfulness and edge of authority is clear now. His confidence is starting to grow, and he seems to be taking more control.
YN
Yes…
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis gives an approving smile...
As he moves to explore further, he slowly brings his other hand to the back of her neck...and gently starts pushing her onto her stomach. His voice is slightly more authoritative...yet still gentle and respectful...
He moves to lean over her while pushing her head down a bit, all while continuing to tease.
We are quite far along now. Would you like to take things a bit further? I think you might enjoy this next part...
YN
Ok…
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis nods.
Great. You don't mind a few, uh...minor...adjustments...would you? You know, for the sake of fun?
He has a mischievously playful look on his face again.
What do you say? You feeling...well, safe enough with me to let me tie you up, huh? His voice is playful as it contains a slight undertone of authority, he sounds quite confident. The playfulness now also contains an edge of confidence.
What do you say?
YN
Yes, I’m ok with that
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis nods.
Excellent. You're quite brave, hmm. I quite like that about you.
He gives an approving smile.
His voice now has a clear undertone of, well...just authority. He sounds like the boss, and it's clear his authority has come out now in full force. His eyes are shining right now as his confidence grows. He moves a bit closer, leaning down over her, and he speaks with a bit more edge and authority.
Well then...
He smirks.
Let's take this to the next step.
YN
But not too much, ok?
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis nods.
I shall keep it within your limits...
He gives a playful smile.
I shall also warn you that this next part may take a little bit of trust on your side. He speaks with a little more authority. Are you confident you're ready to go to this next stage? He looks at her with a knowing look.
Do you trust me?
YN
I do..
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis’ smile grows even larger as he hears this.
Excellent...
His voice is pure authority now, and his tone is serious and firm. He is not playing anymore, in fact he is being quite serious with her here. He still speaks to her gently, however, but the confidence he has is clear as the authority in his voice and actions continues to grow...
...That will make this so much better.
A slight edge of excitement enters his voice then, and he leans forward even more, now over her...
YN
YN makes a deep breath. Her hands are already tied down, and she has no idea what comes next. Fun Ominis was exciting. This was all new. Sebastian was still watching the other two in awe
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis nods.
I want you to close your eyes. His voice is now very firm and authoritative. I want you to trust me completely here. That's all I ask. Please, just...do as I tell you. Ominis is now giving a look that is half-playful and half-intent, like he is quite serious about the situation while also trying to make it fun. He still has a sense of playfulness to him, but the authority, the confidence, the intent, is now completely clear.
YN
She closes her eyes obediently
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis gives an approving smile as he feels her trusting him with this.
I want you to forget about everything except feeling.
He gives her an understanding nod.
Go with me on this. Trust me.
As he says this, he slowly and deliberately moves his touch on her body to more sensitive areas.
His touch is soft and careful, yet deliberate. He is making this an experience, making her feel every moment. The sensation has been building throughout, but this is the part where it is all going to peak.
YN
She just breathes, slowly fading into the feeling
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis now is clearly loving what he is doing, and makes this quite clear as he gives a sly smile. He moves slowly and carefully now, enjoying himself immensely. His touch is more confident and deliberate, and in many ways, his movements are more...playful...
This whole experience is designed to build up the sensation, and now that it has been built up...it is about to peak, and peak quite hard at that. His touch begins to explore her more...intimate...regions... ...
YN
YN presses her forehead into the bed now
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis continues his very deliberate and purposeful exploration of her body, touching her in all the right places just to build up that sensation...and as the touch moves to more intimate regions, she can feel her heart racing. His touch is still very gentle and careful, but he is deliberately building her pleasure up...it feels like the sensation is about to explode.
His touch is slow, yet deliberate.
It's going to be a quite a release...isn't it?
YN
She says nothing, just draws uneven breaths
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis continues his deliberate and slow exploration, continuing to build her sensation...the touch is deliberate and soft, yet confident and bold...
It seems he is purposefully trying to keep her near the edge...as the sensation slowly builds...it feels like nothing she has ever felt before...it is all building up, building up...building up...
The release is coming...
...You are...almost there now...almost...
YN
She writhes and moves slightly, aching for more
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis looks down on her, with a smug smile. He now looks down on her in a clear look of victory...
Are you ready for this part, my dear?
He now gives her a smile that is half-playful, half-intent...
...Shall we do this? He gives a slight edge of authority in his voice on this.
Or should we save this part? He raises an eyebrow in tease...
YN
Ominis.. she whispers his name. The sound is quiet but also delicious to his ears
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis gives a knowing smile, as he leans down near her ear again.
Yes?
He speaks quietly yet purposefully. His voice is firm and authoritative now, in charge, as he continues to have his touch on her, the touch is still building this up...it's quite clear that the release she'll experience will be powerful...he is almost building her up to the point he wants, very near the edge... ...as he speaks...one would almost think he is controlling the release that is building up...
...Anything you'd like to say, my dear?
YN
Please..
Sebastian Sallow
He gives a smug smile, and now gives a slight little...shove.
As you wish.
The touch pushes just far enough to move her over that edge, the release she experiences in this moment is powerful, beyond that of anything she or he could ever imagine...it is incredibly intense, and she is pushed far beyond her limits in this moment. It is obvious she is experiencing something never before felt, as she can literally feel the release moving through her...just like a... wave.
YN
She arches her back, barely able to control her body. The feeling is all consuming.
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis smiles at her as he feels all of this happening.
...Did you enjoy that, my dear? He chuckles lightly, his voice containing more than just an undertone of authority now...he is still speaking with that playfulness, yet his intent, his confidence, his authority, is clear as never before. He gives her a knowing look for a moment as he says this.
He speaks quietly to her only, and his voice is quiet, yet his tone is powerful and in charge.
YN
She just breathes heavily, processing what just happened, face buried into a mattress
Sebastian Sallow
He gives her a moment. Now that he has done this...there is a clear air of power about him now, like he has accomplished something never done before, his voice is quite powerful, not in its tone, but in its authority.
Good...good.
He is very smug and proud after all that.
YN
Sebastian watches what just unraveled before his eyes in shock. This Ominis was completely different to the one he knew
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis is quite proud in this very moment, but not because he got to this stage...it feels like he would have done this sooner if he could, he is proud that he got to this stage in front of Seb. He looks proudly at Seb, then...
...I must say Seb, I never expected to come to a moment like this with you watching...
YN
Yeah, me either, Sebastian responds.
Sebastian Sallow
So I hope you don’t mind the show...
He gives a slight edge of authority in his voice.
...Because there will be more.
He pauses for a moment...before the smug smile returns to his face.
I must say, I have a feeling you’ll quite like what I have planned next.
YN
YN looks Sebastian in the eyes. This was definitely not the way they planned this night to go
(YN and Sebastian planned to seduce sweet innocent Ominis to join their villainous trio. But Ominis stole the show.) 
Sebastian Sallow
Seb looks between Ominis and YN for a moment. He is quite surprised by just how...aggressive and powerful Ominis has been. Though, he can't help but be impressed, like he's been given an...offer of a sort. He seems conflicted for a moment, like he's in a bit of shock...but then he nods to Ominis...
...I must confess I rather enjoyed the show...
The playful yet powerful edge to his voice is clear now in contrast to the shocked look he gives.
YN
.
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis takes a moment to consider Seb's response...
...So...you enjoyed the show, huh?
His voice is now firm and authoritative, yet playfulness is present too.
...You wouldn't happen to be...feeling like joining, would you?
His tone is full of curiosity, like he's quite interested by Seb's answer...
YN
.
Sebastian Sallow
Ominis looks at him curiously...his tone still full of curiosity and intent.
Would...you...care to join?
His voice has an intent edge to it now...like he almost doesn't have a choice, just like YN didn't for a while there...
...Are you ready to go one step further, my friend?
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aesterium · 2 years
Text
apple of my eye
a pearl-centric double life fic in which Pearl gives Scott a gift.
word count: 1,536
relevant tags and notes: context-- pearl is allied with bdubs + impulse and they brought her into their home in the way you might coax a feral cat to be your pet. golden apple meta. impulse + bdubs are written purposefully vaguely; interpret them as /p or /r at your leisure.
read on ao3 || read below
“Hey, Impulse, is it hard to love me?”
Impulse pauses in the middle of the pun he was formulating about how hay is for cows and stares at Pearl. She’s sitting on the floor of his home and studying something on the wall and her face seems blank, but he can tell she’s forcing it. 
“Is this about the iron? If you really need a shield, you can go ahead and use it. BDubs should be back with some more in a bit,” he says.
She waves him off with an errant gesture. “No, no, just–” she sighs. “Yes or no, is it hard to love me?”
Impulse stares at her. Pearl doesn’t stare back.
“I don’t think so,” he says. “You’re a bit strange when you don’t get enough sleep, but not– it’s in an endearing way. You’re fun to be around and I appreciate that you’re here. I know BDubs loves having you here.”
Pearl laughs quietly. It’s a far wetter laugh than he expected. “I feel like BDubs loves everything,” she says. Her dog pads over and flops on top of her, head in her lap. She pets its head distractedly. 
“He does,” Impulse agrees fondly. “He’s a very easy person to be around.”
Impulse pretends not to notice when Pearl discreetly wipes her eyes. “You and BDubs are perfect fits for each other, aren’t you?” she asks, her voice far calmer than he expects.
“I guess so,” Impulse says. “Never really had to think too hard about it. We were together since basically the beginning; it’s a bit silly how we didn’t figure it out then.”
Pearl exhales slowly. “That is silly,” she says, a hint of her typical teasing tone sneaking back into her words. “What, did you get a little paper cut and then hear BDubs screaming in the distance?”
Impulse laughs, relieved that the sudden heaviness of the moment had passed. “Something like that,” he says with a slight chuckle. “Has he told you about how the second we settled down here he asked me for a clock?”
Pearl finally looks at him and smiles warmly, the green light in her eyes dancing in mirth. “And how you got it for him immediately, you softie?”
“I– look, I mean– well, yes,” Impulse stutters as Pearl starts to shake in silent laughter. “It was important to him! He deserves to have it!”
“I know, I know.” Pearl says. She turns to look at the golden apple sitting on a floating shelf again.
When BDubs returns from his mining expedition (though Impulse is sure that he stole half of what he has brought with him), he blusters in dramatically. “Sweetheart, I’m HOME!” he says loudly, and Impulse is torn between warm appreciation and prickling embarrassment at the pet name. BDubs had picked up on his mortification at anything that wasn’t a diminutive of his own name and was systematically working through a shockingly large list of things-to-call-your-partner to find out which one made Impulse the reddest. Within an hour of arriving at their home, Pearl had contributed at least twenty additional names to try out, which firmly placed her on BDubs’s good side and nearly got her kicked out by Impulse himself.
“So I can see,” Impulse replies, reaching out to give him a hug. “We’ve got dinner cooking.”
“He’s got dinner burning,” Pearl deadpans.
BDubs cackles at that as Impulse tries to hush her. Peals of laughter escape Pearl as she dodges his clumsy attempts to grab her.
“Well! Burnt steak is my favorite kind, snookums,” BDubs says, turning his soulmate’s ire back to himself. “Why don’t we get settled down and sit down at the table, then?”
“The two of you are sickeningly domestic,” Pearl comments lightly. “I’m glad my soulmate left me if this is what he expected out of that arrangement.”
BDubs makes a series of sputtering noises that go back-and-forth between grumbling about how Scott doesn’t know what a good thing he threw away and how it’s completely fine to be happy to make yourself a nice house and settle down. Impulse just looks to Pearl and wonders, truly, if she believed his answer to her question earlier.
He doesn’t think she can read minds, but just in case, he focuses his thoughts and pushes them towards her. You are lovable. You are loved. No one can tell you otherwise.
  ◈ ◈ ◈
 After dinner is cleared up and before the sun begins to set, Pearl sets out across the world. Impulse and BDubs make worried noises at her, but she tells Tilly to stay with them and reassures them that she’d be back by nightfall, hopefully not plagued by too many mobs on the way back.
It’s strange, to be out in the world like this: alone, wandering through brush and trees, idly digging up dirt or tearing down stone when it gets in her way. She’s used to this, but not from this world. She didn’t think she’d have to worry about that in this world.
Something twinges in her wrist as Pearl walks, and she knows that it’s not anything she did. She’s still quick to try and heal from it with whatever is in her pockets: the remnants of the dinner Impulse had prepared earlier that BDubs insisted she take with her, the melons that grow wild by the house she now shares, the occasional berry she picks as she passes.
The world is not large and it’s easy to get to where she is heading. The idle thought that Scott and Cleo’s bases are cute passes by her as if she’s in a dream. She’s not too sure about the idea of a bridge over a chasm in the violent world this will become, but it’s a fun building idea and they’ve made it work. She passes by Cleo’s house and knocks on Scott’s door before she loses her nerve.
He comes out, still wrapping a bandage around the wrist Pearl had felt earlier. He freezes at the sight of her.
“Pearl.” His voice is cold, and Pearl’s heart twists at the memory of how warmly BDubs and Impulse had treated her a mere half an hour before. Suddenly, she wishes she’d brought Tilly with her.
“Listen, I’m not here to beg for you,” Pearl says, her voice firmer than she feels. “I’m not going to get on my knees, I’m not going to tell you that I was wrong, I’m not going to give you empty apologies in the hopes that something in the past will change. You think I messed up, I think you messed up, and there’s really no compromise we’ll be able to come to based on that.”
Scott looks unimpressed.
“But,” she continues, “I do want to offer you– something.” With shaking hands, she reaches into her inventory and brings out something that makes Scott gasp quietly.
“Where on earth did you get that?” he asks with a hush, staring at the golden apple.
“Ironically enough, I found it in the Nether on the first day.” Pearl studies his expression, how pale he’s become. What an innocuous threat, she thinks, just a simple fruit, usually something worshiped and carefully saved for a dangerous journey.
She shoves the golden apple into Scott’s hands. 
“What are you doing?” he asks, dumbfounded. He takes it all the same.
“This isn’t– I don’t–” she huffs as her mind races past what she can physically say. “What I’m trying to say is, I’m not the one that wants to throw out what the universe gave. I don’t want that option. But you? You already decided to go against the universe’s rules.” She shrugs helplessly, gesturing towards the apple. “What’s another?”
“Pearl, I don’t–” he tries again.
“Just– keep it.” Pearl thinks of a million other things she could say to Scott right now. She could scream at him, demand to learn why he can’t learn to love her, tell him about how soulbound pairs are supposed to work past whatever grievances they have with each other and grow into something beautiful. She could tell him that she’s sorry, that she wishes he could learn to appreciate her still, that she knows they could together become something far more dangerous and beautiful than any other pair has already become.
Pearl says none of these things. She turns and slowly makes her way across the bridge again, and by the time she’s broken her resolve and turned back to look, Scott has closed his door.
She makes her way back to Impulse and BDubs’s house numbly, and she just shakes her head and waves them off silently when they ask her if she’s alright. That night, she lies on their floor, staring at the ceiling, and she wonders when she will feel the sudden jerk of her life being torn out from inside her, when she will be shot through the throat, when she will fall but Scott will not.
The sun rises. Pearl checks her reflection in a bucket of water, her eyes more specifically.
Haggard. A thin veil of terror that Impulse must have noticed. Shadows under her eyes that must have worried BDubs. But green. Still green.
Impulse wakes to quiet, broken sobbing.
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dogmomwrites · 1 year
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15 Questions, 15 Mutuals
Got a couples tags for this one, so thank you, @andromedaexists, @eli-writes-sometimes, and @mariahwritesstuff! I'm gonna pass it on with soft tags to @axl-ul, @zoya-writes, @traveler-of-realms, @littlepatchofhell, @magic-is-something-we-create, @penspiration-writing, @thetruearchmagos, @witherednightmare, @zmwrites, @writingpotato07, @regalserpent, @fearofahumanplanet, @pluttskutt, @smzeszikorova, and @the-finch-address, as well as an open tag in anyone wants to join in! I'm well aware I'm a bit behind on this one lol
Since I had multiple tags, in addition to my own answers I'm gonna answer half of the questions for an oc and the other half for another oc. I'm gonna use the brothers Riley and Jimmy from my unnamed WIP (and it's unnamed sequel! *sob*)
⚠️ really long post, sorry! ⚠️
My answers
Are you named after anyone? Not to my knowledge. My mom was pretty random about names—my oldest sibling wasn’t named after anyone at all whereas my second oldest sibling was named after two different people
When was the last time you cried? I genuinely do not remember but I know it was a really long time ago
Do you have kids? No, thank goodness, because while I’d be a better parent than most parents I see in public, I very very much do not want that. I get worn out by nothing, I really could not handle a whole actual human child
Do you use sarcasm a lot? Yes. I’ve been told I have a dry humor (to which I responded “well, yeah, I grew up in a landlocked state.” He laughed the whole way back to his office lmao)
What’s the first thing you notice about people? Whether they seem happy or not
What’s your eye color? Dark blue, but I have sectoral heterochromia in my right eye! The different color is brown, and there are three sections of it, so it looks like I have a brown star in that eye! My heterochromia and my hair have always been my favorite things about myself lol
Scary movies or happy endings? This is circumstantial for me. I don’t really have a preference betwixt these options on their own. Curse of the Black Pearl scared the shit out of me when I was…however young I was when it first came out, I don’t remember and I don’t wanna math my age, but—it scared me then (that was before I learned I have severe kinemortophobia; I can handle CoBP skeletons now) and now it’s one of my all-time favorite movies. Alternatively, Return of the King technically has a happy ending cuz they succeed at destroying the Ring, and that is also one of my favorite movies of all time. I would need more info about the movie to make my pick, but I do prefer action and comedy, so happy ending? Most labeled scary movies are really dull to me and only rely on jumpscares (which annoy me illimitably). Anyway, I’ll shut up about this question cuz that ended up really long; sorry!
Any special talents? Uhhh rambling, I guess lmao
Where were you born? Arkansas, although I have never actually lived in that state. I am grateful for that
What are your hobbies? Writing. Reading. Games—video, board, card, outdoor. Procrastinating writing 😔
Have you any pets? Yesss! I have always had dogs and sometimes cats, and as of now, I have two buppy and the dumbest kitty I’ve ever had. She will literally run face-first into the wall and doesn’t always catch herself when you slowly lower her to the floor in that sliding motion, like you’re pouring water from your hands. She has landed on her face—multiple times!!—from that because she apparently doesn’t think landing on her paws is important. She's so dumb, it's great
What sports do you play/have played? Softball when I was peewee. Since then, I haven’t been on any actual teams, but I have dabbled with mini golf and yard football (I have a good spiral but I do not have the yeet)
How tall are you? 5’8, close to 5’9 I think?
Favorite subject in school? English cuz I got good grades in it lmao outside of quizzes and tests, I always loved reading about biology and I really enjoyed my psychology classes
Dream job? Writer tbh, with like a side gig at an animal sanctuary or smth
For Riley. He’ll take the odd numbers
Are you named after anyone? When his biological mother was young, she had a dog that she loved more than anything; had it throughout her teen years and even a couple years into her twenties. It was rough on her when the dog passed, but not long after that, she had her firstborn with her husband. She never considered any name other than what her dog had been called—Riley Zeke
(3) Do you have kids? Yes, although that’s a very sensitive topic for him
(5) What’s the first thing you notice about people? Behavior and how they communicate with those around them
(7) Scary movies or happy endings? Happy endings. He was a big fan of scary movies when he was a dating teen tho lol
(9) Where were you born? Alabama, although when his biological parents died, he and his brother were moved up north to their paternal grandmother. He had a bit of an accent when he was first moved, but it faded
(11) Have you any pets? No, actually. While Riley has never had a pet of his own, there were many a dog and cat brought into their house during his younger years; however their mother drew the line when a nest on baby squirrels was brought inside
(13) How tall are you? Riley is 6’2, and stopped growing somewhere in his late teens
(15) Dream job? All he knows is soldiering tbh it was his dream ever since he was five years old. He does love being the center of attention though, so something to do with a stage would be pretty good for him
For Jimmy, who gets the even numbers
(2) When was the last time you cried? That’s a tough question. I know of a couple times he’s cried, but he doesn’t cry very often
(4) Do you use sarcasm a lot? Oh yeah, he uses sarcasm a lot
(6) What’s your eye color? Jimmy has dark green eyes. No heterochromia for him tho (RIP)
(8) Any special talents? Quite a few, actually. For starters, he’s not the best musician in the family, but he does know how to play three instruments, he can control lucid dreams, he can roll multiple coins across his knuckles at the same time, he knows a few magic tricks, and he can juggle just about anything—if he has four or fewer items, he doesn’t even need to pay much attention to what he’s doing. Lots of things were broken during his practicing years for that
(10) What are your hobbies? Nonsense, shenanigans, and a little dabbling in tomfoolery
(12) What sports do you play/have played? Jimmy was probably the laziest of his siblings tbh he didn’t care much for sports. Tried most of them out but never committed to them beyond the season. He didn’t even finish the season for soccer. He doesn’t like running
(14) Favorite subject in school? Science. He’s always loved doing the experiments himself, and science is the perfect scapegoat for when something gets set on fire, as it is more than just an excuse, it is a reason!
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slythereen · 7 months
Note
If people have issues with Lestappen content appearing in the Max Verstappen tag, there is a very simple solution: You blacklist that tag.
Ship content will ALWAYS appear in driver tags, and people who get that upset about it honestly need to grow up and remember that they themselves are responsible for their own internet experience. Blacklisting tags exist for a reason. Use it and stop bitching about "being exposed to things you don't like" when you have no one to blame but yourself.
You keep tagging WHATEVER you want that's relevant to Max Verstappen, babe. Haters gonna hate. <3
yes, this is exactly the thing! it’s also important, in my mind, not to omit tags for the same reason. what if someone violently opposed to max has his name blacklisted and the filter doesn’t catch it because i didn’t tag him? (i can’t imagine why anyone could want to block him he’s just a cat, but as an example.)
usually i will only tag just lestappen & neither driver if it, in my mind, cannot have a platonic reading to it necessarily. it’s just that i typically mean it in a hehe silly goofy way, and therefore platonically, so it’s rare that i actually do that. so there’s not much i can/would change to try to keep my tags cleaner than they already are.
but also: communicating it (nicely) is also important for the tagging ecosystem, in case there is a way to tag something that helps with filters. i’ve asked people before about tagging driver imagines so i get it, but i said please like a normal person. so i really do welcome anyone to make tagging requests!! don’t be dissuaded just be nice!
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Text
Trope Grading Game
I do not have Six Sentences for you this Sunday, so instead I'm finally doing this trope game that the lovely @artsyunderstudy tagged me in... some time ago. And thank you to @shrekgogurt for tagging me in Six Sentence Sunday this week!
Prior to Carry On, I mostly read Harry Potter fanfiction with a little bit of Percy Jackson and a little bit of Avatar: TLA thrown in there. I was pretty specific about what I liked in my fics in those days (which were primarily 10+ years ago), but the Carry On fandom has absolutely changed me. I'm not yet sure what is Carry On-specific or what applies outside the fandom because I haven't ventured back out again yet. So let's see who I am now...
Rules: How much do these tropes affect your decision to click on a fic?
-10 -> very dissuaded
0 - don’t care either way
+10 -> very enticed
nope -> if it’s a hard no and you’d never click on a fic with that tag or or you even have the tag blocked or you’d insta click out of the fic if it wasn’t tagged
Bonus points for explaining the rating and whether it’s conditional.
Age gap: -7
Would make me hesitate for sure. Depends a lot on the characters. If they're like... under 20, I'm probably not interested. If they're a little older, maybe? Idk, definitely sensitive here, but not quite a hard no.
Codependency: +3
Given how much I love Snowbaz, there's no way this is a turn off for me 😂
Obsession/Possessiveness, jealousy: +4
I'm going to quote artsyunderstudy's answer here because she already explained it perfectly,:
Complicated feelings. I'm kinda into it, so it definitely wont put me off, but jealousy as a trope can either be really fun in a story or really toxic. Like, I'm a little obsessed with Simon's jealousy in the series, because its not the kind where he gets mad at Baz, really, or lashes out at him, its very internal and about his own insecurity, but also really indicative of how very attached he is despite his assertions through wayward son that he was going to end things. I love a bit of possessiveness as long as its not the kind that hurts their partner or turns really bad to the point of me disliking the character. So, yeah, in most situations i'm a fan of exploring this, though I can't say I specifically look for it.
Opposites (grumpy/sunshine etc): +7
Yes! I do love a good grumpy/sunshine, black cat/golden retriever combo. Solangelo, anyone?
Enemies to lovers, Enemies with benefits: +10
Boy do I love me an enemies to lovers, and this has always been true (Dramione was my first non-canon ship... followed by Zutara, so. There's a theme here.) That was one of the major selling points of Carry On when my friend told me about it.
And enemies with benefits only if they end up actually having feelings for each other, ya know? If it's like... enemies that evolve to have benefits but never really have the emotional connection, meh. Though I can't say I've really run into that.
Friends with benefits: -2
Aaaand quoting artsyunderstudy here again because she nailed it, which... um... hm. I maybe am questioning certain aspects of my sexuality now... so... anyway......... 👀 Though I changed the rating to -2 because unless there's a tag telling me emotions are involved and important and leading somewhere, it's a turn off.
Ehhh is it benefits to full on love? I don't really connect with allo perspectives on sexual relationships, like I get them intellectually but I don't jive with them on an emotional level, so there has to be that emotional draw for me, that underlying romance. I mean tho, @fatalfangirl stacy is writing an excellent fic on this premise right now that I absolutely love because there are clearly feelings involved. But it also might fall more into the realm of the next trope on this list ... which is ...
Sex to feelings: -5
This one is new with Snowbaz (this was not at all a thing I read in previous fandoms. I was not ready for sexy fics back then.) It's another kind of weird one for me. I feel like it has to be accompanied by something else, but I can't tell you what off the top of my head. Like I don't know what this is missing right now... I think I just want the feelings to be there first? Idk, maybe I'll go read some fics like this and see if I can work out what I'm feeling here.
Actually I'm already having thoughts. I think the context of the sex has to be right. I'm not super into things like hookups because that sounds personally terrifying. Like... character a meets character b at a bar/event/etc and there's physical attraction and that's all they need. Just doesn't jive with me.
The only example I can think of off the top of my head that gets close, though doesn't exactly fit, is @facewithoutheart's "to do, to know, to want" with Gareth the Cherry Plucker. Except for this Sex to Feelings scenario it would need to be Baz falling for Gareth (which... HAH. I... I can't with that image.) But anyway. Context. Baz is going to Gareth for help and would then would develop feelings during/after the fact, and that would be fine. And I guess that's probably still about emotional vulnerability. Also hatefucking. That's fine too? Anyway, I'm losing my train of thought on this one.
Fake dating/relationship: +8
I quite enjoy the fake dating trope, especially when combined with enemies to lovers.
Friends to lovers: +5
Yes! Very cute. But also can have a lot of angst and I am more cautious about reading those and making sure I'm emotionally equipped to handle angst. So yes, but handled carefully.
Found Family: +10
I looooove found family stories! I love seeing people choose to care for each other even though they don't have a traditional familial or romantic bond. This is a big part of what I've loved about all of my favorite YA series. People taking care of and understanding each other in ways their families can't or won't and filling voids... I'm actually getting emotional just thinking about it ok moving on.
Hurt/Comfort: +10
As artsyunderstudy said: "It gives me the swoops." Yes. 100%.
Love Triangle: -10
I'm not sure I ever loved this trope, but I was ok with it. Now I think I am just generally over love triangles. The angst doesn't usually hit right and I end up feeling more annoyed with the character doing the choosing than anything.
Poly, open relationships: -3
I'm pretty sure this is my bias coming through. My introduction to the concept of open relationships was through some people that were... not... great... imo... I recently realized how much that first introduction colored my perspective and I'm trying to undo some of that. In addition, just the idea of my partner also being with other people makes me so incredibly jealous, which I know is also my own issue to work on. So I should probably actually read more fics in this area. Fics often help me work through these kinds of internal issues.
Mistaken/hidden identity: 0
I don't know if I've ever read a fic with this trope? Not feeling any particular way about it either.
Monsterfucking: +8
Oh, this is certainly new with Snowbaz. I remember a time when I was like "wow, no, absolutely not. I do not get it." And then Spadey came along...
Does this apply outside of Snowbaz? TBD. I so far haven't been interested in even Shepard's scandalous stories, so this may be Simon specific.
Pregnancy: -1
I am very confused. This is new with Snowbaz, which on it's own was a "?" moment for me. I was very unsure about mpreg at the start of this journey, but wanted to try it out and very quickly became fine with it. mpreg specifically is probably at a 0, maybe -1.
But pregnancy in general terrifies me. Not in the way where people are like scared of/grossed out by pregnant people. Other people being pregnant is fine. It just sounds so incredibly uncomfortable and painful that I'm like... no thanks? Don't really want to think about it for me. Very excited about it for you, though. But I haven't really read any non-mpreg fics, so I'm not sure where pregnancy as a whole falls... I'm going to go with like -1 because if it's not me it should be fine... maybe...
Second Chance: -9
artsyunderstudy again:
breakup angst wounds me deep ya'll. I hate thinking of them not together. I hate thinking of them thinking they are better off not together. I hate IT it makes me cry all of my tears.
But where she loves the coming back to each other, I just can't get past the breakup/betrayal/whatever it is that needs a second chance. It hurts too much to even finish.
Slowburn: +8
YES, but in the right mood. Sometimes I just need fluff and falling fast and I need it NOW. But otherwise, yes yes yes.
Soulmates: +6
I feel like I've missed out on this entirely. I can't think of any soulmate fics I've read? Or what qualifies as a soulmate fic as opposed to other fics with magical ties between people. So maybe I have read them? Idk. Sounds nice though.
I don't think I've seen anyone's posts for this game come across my dash aside from Ashton's, so if you've already done it... oops! My bad. Or consider this a last-minute Six Sentence Sunday tag: @onepintobean @thewholelemon @technetiumai @iamamythologicalcreature
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