#God we have official heights now

[edenesth]

Guarding Hearts

Pairing: bodyguard!Jongho x actress!reader

AU: fake marriage au

Word Count: 15k

Summary: In the glittering world of fame, you're an actress haunted by an obsessive stalker hell-bent on claiming your life. To protect you, your management hires Jongho, a bodyguard, to pose as your fake husband. While danger escalates, so do the sparks between you. As his feelings for you deepen beyond the bounds of professionalism, will he still manage to uphold his role as a dedicated bodyguard?

A/N: Missing Jongho hours are officially open.

ATEEZ Masterlist

"That's it, we must do something about this."

Seonghwa declared, his voice tinged with frustration and worry. His eyes scanned the surroundings, ever watchful for any sign of danger.

"This can't go on any longer. Your safety is our top priority."

The moon hung low in the night sky, casting a dim glow over the bustling streets of Seoul. You stood outside your apartment building, your heart still pounding from the latest terrifying encounter with your relentless stalker. The night air was crisp, a stark contrast to the fear that had gripped you just moments ago.

Seonghwa, your dedicated manager, stood beside you, his brows furrowed in deep concern.

He had been by your side since the beginning of your skyrocketing career, and now, as your fame had reached new heights, so had the dangers that came with it.

You nodded, trembling as you recounted the chilling details of the latest attempt on your life. The stalker's death threats and claims of ownership had escalated beyond terrifying emails and letters. This time, he had boldly attempted to abduct you, coming dangerously close to success.

The fame you had achieved was a double-edged sword.

While it brought you adoration from fans worldwide, it also attracted the attention of those who harboured dangerous obsessions. Your stalker was the most notorious among them, his fixation on you spiralling into madness.

Seonghwa's face hardened with determination as he pulled out his phone, "We need to take drastic measures. We'll bring in the police, but in the meantime, I have another idea."

Your heart raced, anxiety twisting your stomach as you wondered what drastic measures he had in mind.

You had no choice but to trust your manager, the man who had always been there for you. As the city's neon lights flickered in the distance, you braced yourself for this terrifying ordeal, knowing that whatever he had planned was your best chance at escaping the clutches of your stalker.

God, help me. Please let this plan work.

The meeting room's dimly lit interior provided a stark contrast to the chaos that had consumed your life. Seated beside your manager, you stared blankly at the conference table, your hands trembling uncontrollably.

The fear that had taken hold of you since the last kidnap attempt seemed to have permanently etched itself onto your every nerve.

Without a word, Seonghwa noticed your trembling hands and covered them with his own, offering a comforting and grounding touch. His warm, reassuring squeeze provided a small moment of solace in the midst of your turmoil.

"You're not alone in this," He whispered, his eyes filled with empathy, "The label and I are here for you. We're going to do everything in our power to keep you safe."

Forcing a smile to reassure him, you nodded, even though you still had no idea what drastic measures he and the management team had planned to protect you. The uncertainty weighed heavily on your mind, but you didn't want to burden him with your fears. He had been your pillar of strength throughout your career, and you didn't want to add to the immense pressure he was already under.

As the meeting began, Seonghwa and the management team laid out their plan to safeguard your life and reputation. They discussed everything from increasing security personnel to contacting the police, but the most unexpected proposal was yet to come.

Your manager cleared his throat, his gaze steady as he addressed you, "In addition to these security measures, we have another idea that we believe will provide an added layer of protection for you. It's a bold step, but we think it's necessary given the circumstances."

Curiosity mingled with apprehension as you leaned in, eager to hear the details of this mysterious plan.

"We've taken the liberty of hiring a highly trained bodyguard," Seonghwa began, his voice carrying the weight of the decision they had made collectively, "Someone with an impeccable record, renowned for his unwavering commitment to his client's safety."

A hushed tension filled the room as everyone waited with bated breath for him to reveal the identity of this formidable guardian.

Images of a faceless protector, cloaked in secrecy and strength, danced through your mind. The idea of having a dedicated guardian was reassuring, but it was the next part of Seonghwa's revelation that would change everything.

With an air of solemnity, he continued, "This bodyguard will be by your side at all times, ensuring your safety and keeping a close watch on any potential threats."

A bodyguard sounded reasonable, even expected, given the circumstances, but the bombshell that followed caught you completely off guard.

"He will be your fake husband."

Time seemed to slow as those words sank in.

A fake husband?

It was a proposition so unexpected that it felt surreal.

The notion of a fake husband as a security measure was not only unexpected but bewildering. You were an actress, well-versed in the art of portraying emotions, but this was a role unlike any other.

Frozen in your chair, you tried to process the magnitude of the revelation. Why would a fake husband be necessary? How would it work? A thousand questions swirled in your mind, but you couldn't voice them, not yet.

Seonghwa's voice broke through the uncertainty that hung in the air.

"Listen, I know this is unconventional, but it's essential. We need to keep you safe, and the police are doing their best, but they need time. Having Jongho," He nodded towards a folder on the table that contained the bodyguard's profile, "By your side as your fake husband will deter the stalker and buy us that time."

Jongho's image stared back at you from the folder, his stern yet reassuring gaze seeming to hold a promise of protection. You finally found your voice, though it wavered.

"But... a fake husband? How is that going to work?"

Your manager leaned back in his chair, his expression grave but determined, "It won't be easy, and it will demand a lot from both of you. But Jongho is one of the best in the business, and he's committed to keeping you safe. This is the most effective way to ensure your security while we deal with the stalker."

The gravity of the situation began to settle in, and you nodded slowly, understanding the necessity of the plan. It was a drastic step, but it seemed like the only option to protect your life and put an end to the relentless threats.

After the meeting adjourned, there was no time to waste.

You were immediately introduced to your bodyguard and newly appointed fake husband. As you stepped out of the meeting room, he was waiting patiently just outside, his presence exuding an air of unshakable composure.

His imposing figure drew your attention, and for a brief moment, you felt a flutter of uncertainty. But as he approached with a composed yet welcoming demeanour, he extended his hand with a warm smile.

"Hello, I'm Choi Jongho. It's a pleasure to meet you."

You shook his hand, the firmness of his grip reassuring and grounding. His politeness and the absence of any star-struck behaviour felt like a breath of fresh air in a world where you were often treated as nothing but a celebrity.

It was a refreshing change to encounter someone who didn't view you through the lens of fame and adulation.

For the first time in a long while, you didn't feel like the version of you who was an actress, pursued by the media and adoring fans. Instead, you were just you, a person who needed protection and support. It was a stark departure from the world you knew, but somehow, it felt like a sanctuary amidst the storm of your life.

Seonghwa, always efficient and focused on your safety, wasted no time in facilitating the initial introductions between you and Jongho.

In those first few moments, you exchanged basic information about yourselves, learning small details like your favourite food and hobbies. It was a surface-level exchange, but even those initial conversations helped break the ice and ease the tension that hung in the air.

But as your manager guided the conversation toward more serious matters, you couldn't escape the inevitable reality of your new situation. The "fake marriage" aspect of the plan loomed over you like uncharted territory.

"In light of recent events, Jongho will be moving into your apartment immediately," Seonghwa explained, his voice calm but authoritative, "You will need to start portraying yourselves as a married couple as soon as possible. This will provide the most convincing cover for your safety."

The weight of the decision settled heavily in the room.

It meant a complete upheaval of your daily life, your personal space now shared with a stranger who would become your fake husband. It was a leap into the unknown, and you felt a mixture of anxiety and curiosity about how this would unfold.

Jongho nodded in agreement, his expression resolute, "I'm here to ensure your safety. We'll need to learn about each other on the go, but I'm confident we can make this work."

With that assurance, Seonghwa guided the two of you through the practicalities of the arrangement – sharing living spaces, developing a cover story, and establishing boundaries that would maintain the illusion of a real marriage while preserving your individual lives.

As you stood at the threshold of this uncharted chapter, you wondered how this unconventional partnership would evolve.

The line between reality and pretence was about to blur, and the world as you knew it was changing faster than you could have ever imagined.

Truth be told, when Jongho first received the job offer, he had been reluctant to accept it.

As he found himself thrust into this new assignment, a whirlwind of conflicting emotions and thoughts swirled within him. It wasn't because he lacked the skills or experience; in fact, his reputation as one of the best bodyguards in the business had earned him this opportunity.

It was something else entirely that had fueled his hesitancy.

In his career, he had grown a firm dislike for what he referred to as the "elite" group of society, those who lived lives of opulence and extravagance, seemingly detached from the struggles of ordinary people. He viewed famous celebrities, including actresses like you, as a part of that elite circle.

His stereotype about such individuals had, therefore, created a barrier in his mind.

Jongho has never watched any of your dramas or movies, but he had heard of your recent surge in popularity. The news of your obsessive stalker had also reached his ears, given the extensive media coverage. It was a case that struck a chord with the public, and he was aware of the fear and distress you must have been experiencing.

Given the chance, he wanted to reject the job, convinced there were plenty of other bodyguards who would willingly step into his shoes.

But there was more at stake than just the assignment.

His career had been building up to this moment, the coveted promotion he had worked tirelessly to achieve. It was the role he had aspired to, a stepping stone towards his goals.

So here he stood, determined to do his job to the best of his abilities, even if it meant breaking through the barriers of his own prejudices. The prospect of playing the role of your husband, even in pretence, was a challenge he was willing to embrace.

Jongho's initial reluctance and preconceived notions faded away the moment he laid eyes on you for the first time.

Unlike the polished image he had seen on TV screens, the real you appeared before him, vulnerable and worn out from the constant state of anxiety you had endured. It was a stark contrast to the glamorous persona he had expected, and it made you seem profoundly... human.

As he observed your anxiety and exhaustion, his heart softened. He realised that beneath the fame and adulation, you were just a person dealing with an overwhelming threat.

He couldn't bring himself to act cold or distant to someone who had already endured so much.

A warm and assuring smile graced his lips as he greeted you, his heart fluttering when he realised how small your hand felt in his grasp. It was a subtle reminder of the fragility hidden behind your celebrity status.

But as Seonghwa delved into the arrangements, Jongho's heart sank. The reality of the situation hit him like a heavyweight, and he couldn't help but feel overwhelmed by the enormity of the task ahead. Protecting you was one thing, but playing the role of your husband was an entirely different challenge, one he hadn't anticipated.

Deep down, he longed for the assignment to be over already, the thought of pretending to be your husband weighing heavily on him.

But he knew that this unconventional partnership was a necessity, and he was committed to carrying out his duties to ensure your safety, no matter the personal toll it might take.

Seated in a private room with Seonghwa, you and Jongho did your best to digest the shocking news.

Your manager briefed both of you on the press release that would soon be handed to the mass media. According to the plan, it would be reported as breaking news that you had been secretly married all along, and your husband had decided to reveal himself to protect you, especially given the escalating danger posed by your stalker.

As Seonghwa outlined the details of the fabricated narrative, you felt a gnawing anxiety deep within.

Thoughts of your fans, supporters, and even your loved ones raced through your mind. How would they react to this sudden revelation? What would they think of your secret marriage? The fear of their disappointment and confusion weighed heavily on your heart.

Jongho, on the other hand, had a different set of worries.

As a seasoned bodyguard, he knew that maintaining a low profile was essential to his job's effectiveness.

This orchestrated marriage announcement could potentially place a target on his back, complicating an already challenging task of protecting you. The last thing he needed was added attention and scrutiny that could hinder his ability to keep you safe.

Silent tension hung in the room as you and Jongho exchanged knowing glances, each of you grappling with your own fears and uncertainties.

But you both understood the necessity of this deception and the lengths you were willing to go to ensure your safety.

With heavy hearts, you nodded in agreement, bracing yourselves for the whirlwind of changes that would soon engulf your lives, as the world believed you were a married couple, bound by a secret that was born out of necessity and desperation.

As a week passed since the news of your secret marriage had been reported, life had taken on a new rhythm, one that neither you nor Jongho could have anticipated. The initial days had been a whirlwind of chaos, with paparazzi swarming your home, their intrusive presence feeling like a relentless storm.

But in a strange twist of fate, you found a silver lining in the hordes of journalists camped outside your door. Their constant vigilance, though exhausting, had inadvertently scared away your stalker. The sheer number of people surrounding your home made it nearly impossible for him to make any further attempts on your life.

In the midst of this media circus, you had grown more accustomed to the idea of sharing your life with Jongho.

While the circumstances of your cohabitation were far from ordinary, you appreciated the security and support he provided. His presence brought a sense of reassurance, knowing that he was close by, ready to rush to your aid if needed.

Meanwhile, Jongho had experienced his own set of surprises.

When he first entered your home, he had expected an extravagant setting, in line with his stereotype about celebrities and their lavish lifestyles. But what he found was quite the opposite.

Your living space was surprisingly simplistic and unpretentious, more like an ordinary person's home than a famous actress' residence.

This unexpected discovery helped him view you in an entirely new light. You were not the distant and fancy elite he had imagined, but a person living a life marked by both fame and vulnerability. The contrast between your public image and your private life made you appear more relatable and human to him, bridging the gap between his prejudices and the reality he now faced.

The two of you had been effectively holed up in your home for a week, attempting to avoid the ever-present paparazzi.

But today, reality caught up with you as you glanced into your nearly empty fridge, realising you had run out of groceries to make dinner. With a heavy sigh, you turned to your bodyguard, knowing there was no other choice, "Jongho, we need to stock up on groceries."

Your fake husband nodded in understanding.

He was acutely aware of the restrictions this new life imposed on both of you. His job was to stay by your side at all times, ensuring your safety, which meant he couldn't leave you home alone. His gaze shifted to the window, where a sea of journalists and photographers continued to camp out.

"Gosh, this won't be easy," He muttered to himself, his brow furrowing as he assessed the situation outside, "But we can do this. I won't let anything happen to you."

You were struck by the genuine concern in his voice, and your heart fluttered in response. His words were a reassurance you desperately needed in the midst of this whirlwind of deception and danger. But you quickly reminded yourself that he was only doing his job, his duty to protect you.

Any personal feelings that might have stirred were irrelevant.

With a nod, you headed off to change, giving yourself a moment to regain your composure. The unexpected connection that had begun to form between you was something you couldn't ignore, but for now, it had to take a backseat to the more pressing matters at hand.

The journey from your home to the car was a daunting one, with the paparazzi surging forward the moment they caught sight of you and your "husband" stepping outside. The excitement among the journalists was palpable, and they bombarded you with endless questions about your secret marriage.

Jongho, determined to play his role and protect you, reacted swiftly.

He wrapped his strong arms securely around you, creating a protective barrier against the onslaught of cameras and questions. As he guided you toward the car, his grip was both reassuring and comforting, serving as a lifeline in the chaos.

In a moment of vulnerability, you instinctively clung to him, seeking refuge from the overwhelming media frenzy. You pressed your head against his chest, under his chin, as he held you close. His embrace was a source of solace, and you couldn't deny the comfort of having such a reliable protector by your side.

As you settled into the car, the chaos of the paparazzi finally fading into the background, Jongho pulled away slightly to check on you.

His concern was evident as he asked, "Hey, you okay?"

You nodded, a faint smile on your lips as you met his gaze, "Yeah, I'm fine. Thank you for your hard work." The warmth in your voice conveyed your appreciation for his protection.

He returned your smile, his eyes reflecting a sense of duty fulfilled. He turned the key to start the car and helped you fasten your seatbelt before glancing over at you, "This is nothing. Let's just hope my work won't have to get any more difficult than this."

As he navigated the car towards the closest supermarket, you couldn't help but steal a glance at him.

His dedication and caring nature had not gone unnoticed, and a part of you was grateful for his presence in this tumultuous time. But you couldn't ignore the twinge of attraction that had developed, a crush on your fake husband that you were hesitant to acknowledge.

Inwardly, you chided yourself for such feelings, attributing them to the unusual circumstances that had brought the two of you together. You told yourself that perhaps, under different circumstances, you might not have been drawn to him in the same way.

Regardless of the reason, you decided to focus on the task at hand – stocking up on groceries and returning home safely. The complexities of your fake marriage and the emotions it stirred would have to wait for another time.

The next day, after the supermarket mission, you couldn't escape the undeniable truth – photos of you and your "husband" were plastered across all newspapers, magazines, and TV headlines. The world seemed to buzz with speculation and interest in your secret marriage.

In the days since the news broke, you had refrained from accessing any of your social media accounts, afraid of what you might find there. The fear of backlash from your fans and supporters had kept you at bay.

But now, with the images of you and Jongho dominating the media, curiosity got the better of you.

Sitting in front of your computer, you logged on to your social media accounts, heart pounding with anticipation. Your notifications are immediately filled with messages, mentions, and comments. As you began to read through them, a mix of emotions washed over you.

There were those who expressed shock and disbelief, unable to reconcile the image of their beloved celebrity with the idea of a secret marriage. Some were sceptical, suspecting a publicity stunt, while others were genuinely happy for you, despite the unusual circumstances.

As you scrolled through the comments, you noticed a surprising amount of support and understanding from your fans. Messages of encouragement and well wishes outnumbered the negative responses.

It was a relief to see that not everyone had turned their backs on you.

Scrolling further, you inevitably stumble upon a message from your stalker. Just the sight of his name was enough to send a shiver down your spine. Your hands trembled as you hesitantly clicked into the message. The chilling words that met your eyes left you paralysed with fear and anger.

It read, 'How dare you do this to me? After everything I've done for you? You ungrateful bitch, your husband better sleep with one eye open because I don't know what I might do to him.'

Reading those threatening words, you felt a surge of terror and rage.

Your stalker's obsession had taken a dangerous turn, and his threats were now directed at your fake husband. The fear for your safety had intensified, but now you had to worry about Jongho's safety as well.

Your bodyguard's sharp instincts picked up on your trembling form as he walked past your bedroom door.

His years of training had made him hyper-aware of his surroundings, especially when it came to your safety. The moment he noticed your shaken state, he knew something was amiss.

Without hesitation, he knocked on your door, a quiet yet firm signal of his presence. You jumped slightly at the unexpected sound, your heart racing, but the fear in your eyes instantly faded when you saw that it was him. His protective presence was a welcome sight.

Seeing your evident distress, his concern deepened.

"May I come in?" He asked gently, giving you the choice to invite him into your personal space. You nodded weakly, your trembling hands covering your eyes as you struggled to regain your composure.

With utmost care, he entered your room and approached you slowly, ensuring he didn't startle you further.

He knelt down in front of you, his strong and reassuring presence a calming force in the midst of your fear. Gently, he pulled your hands away from your face, his eyes filled with concern as he studied your tear-stained cheeks.

"What's wrong?" He asked softly, his voice laced with empathy and worry. You wiped away your tears, gesturing to the computer where the threatening message from your stalker had appeared.

His expression darkened as he quickly assessed the situation, his heart sinking at the gravity of the threat.

He knew that this was no ordinary situation.

Your safety, as well as his own, was now on the line, and the danger posed by your stalker had escalated to a level neither of you could ignore. As he contemplated the best course of action, he silently vowed to protect you, whatever it took and put an end to the torment that had infiltrated your life.

Jongho wasted no time contacting Seonghwa, your manager, who arrived at your home promptly to check on your well-being and assess the threat sent by your stalker.

Once he was assured that you were physically fine, the three of you settled in your living room to discuss the situation. Jongho, with a deep furrow in his brow, inquired about the progress the police force had made with the case.

Seonghwa sighed loudly, his expression grave, and shook his head, signalling the lack of any substantial progress.

"They're still working on tracking him down," Your manager admitted, his frustration palpable, "But the stalker seems to be using a fake name to leave you messages. There's no such person with that name in their database, and he's done an excellent job concealing his digital footprints and IP address."

The news was disheartening, to say the least.

The realisation that the person responsible for your torment was eluding capture cast a shadow over the room. You felt a sense of vulnerability, knowing that the threat was still out there.

After a thoughtful pause, Jongho voiced his idea, "If he's so difficult to track online, perhaps we need to lure him out physically for them to stand a chance at capturing him." His suggestion hung heavy in the air, and the weight of his proposal was palpable.

Your eyes widened, and your heart sank at the daring plan he was proposing. The thought of being the bait in this dangerous game was undeniably frightening, but you understood the necessity of the approach. Your safety, as well as the safety of others, depended on finding a way to apprehend this stalker.

Seonghwa, though visibly concerned, recognised the validity of Jongho's argument.

After a moment of contemplation, he nodded reluctantly, "Alright," He conceded, his voice laced with worry, "Let me contact the representatives from the police force. Maybe together, we can come up with a plan."

The room was filled with a sense of determination.

Despite the risks and uncertainties that lay ahead, you were all united in your commitment to confront the stalker head-on and put an end to the terror that had plagued your life for far too long.

The following week, two police officers from the team handling your case arrived at your doorstep, accompanied by Seonghwa.

San and Hongjoong, as they introduced themselves, represented the law enforcement effort to capture your stalker. As they settled around your dining table, you chuckled lightly to yourself when you noticed San trying to contain his excitement in your presence.

It was clear that he was a fan of yours.

With all the men now settled around the dining table, you broke the silence, "Oh, let me just prepare you guys some tea."

It was a thoughtful gesture, an attempt to make the situation a bit more comfortable and welcoming. You moved into the kitchen to retrieve your teapot, and before anyone could react, San immediately volunteered to help.

Meanwhile, Jongho's irritation simmered beneath the surface as he watched the enthusiastic display. The officer's eagerness to assist you grated on his nerves, even though he knew it was a trivial matter in the grand scheme of things. He resisted the urge to roll his eyes, keeping his emotions in check as best as he could.

With a confident and fluid motion, San effortlessly extended his arm to reach for the teapot on the top shelf. He handled the task with ease, his agility and eagerness on full display.

Jongho clenched his jaw, his internal frustration intensifying. He believed that it should have been his role to assist you, to ensure your comfort and well-being. But he quickly recognised the irrationality of his jealousy; after all, he was your fake husband, not your real one.

As San assisted you in serving tea and biscuits, Hongjoong maintained a polite demeanour, thanking you for the refreshments. He made sure to shoot a warning glare at San, a silent reminder that they were here on official business.

With everyone finally seated, you anxiously positioned yourself between Seonghwa and Jongho, awaiting the officers' ideas for capturing your stalker.

Hongjoong, the team leader for your case, wasted no time in getting down to business. He leaned forward, his expression focused and determined, and began to lay out a few possible plans to draw the stalker out, all of which revolved around you as the bait.

Each plan came with its own risks, and the room fell silent as you, Jongho, and Seonghwa considered the options. It was a difficult decision to make, knowing that your safety hung in the balance.

After hours of intense discussion and weighing the risks and benefits of each plan, a strategy was finally decided upon. It would involve a combination of the decoy strategy and social media bait to lure the stalker out of hiding.

You and Jongho would publicly go on a "date," during which you would post about your outing on social media. These posts would include seemingly innocent clues and hints about your whereabouts, making it appear as if you were sharing this information willingly.

At a prearranged moment, your fake husband would leave your side temporarily, creating a staged situation where you would be alone.

The hope was that this scenario would make you appear vulnerable and an easy target to the stalker, prompting him to make a move. But in reality, undercover officers would be strategically positioned nearby, ready to intervene at the first sign of trouble. The key to the plan's success would be the delicate balance between making it believable and ensuring your safety.

As the details of the plan were finalised, a sense of determination filled the room.

You all knew the risks involved, but you were united in your resolve to finally confront the stalker and put an end to this nightmare. The stage was set, and the countdown to the operation to capture the stalker had begun.

"Relax, I'm right here with you. You'll be safe." Jongho's reassuring voice broke through the fear that gripped your heart.

You were on your staged date with him, with undercover officers discreetly positioned around you. Even with the protective presence of law enforcement, the thought of potentially coming face-to-face with your stalker again made your heart race with anxiety.

Jongho tightened his grip on your hand as you both strolled through a park. You nodded appreciatively, giving his hand a soft squeeze.

Earlier, you had posted a few pictures with him on social media, acting as if you were excitedly sharing the sweet moment with your fans. Your comment section was filled with endless supportive messages. Despite the encouragement, you couldn't shake off the nervousness about what you were about to experience.

The park was serene and peaceful, a stark contrast to the turmoil that had engulfed your life.

As you both continued your walk, you glanced around, your senses on high alert, searching for any sign of the stalker's presence. With each step, the tension in the air grew thicker, and the weight of the operation weighed heavily on your shoulders.

The moment you had been dreading finally arrived when you spotted Hongjoong, disguised as a civilian jogging in the park, giving Jongho the signal to leave you alone.

Panic surged through you as Jongho gently sat you down on a nearby bench, his hand tenderly cupping your cheek, "I'll be back real quick, my love," He said, his voice laced with reassurance as he leaned in closer, "Just gotta run to the nearest bathroom. You wait right here, alright?"

You nodded weakly, your eyes trembling as you placed your hand over his, desperately clinging to the sense of safety he provided.

"Okay." You whispered fearfully, your eyes closing briefly as he pressed his lips against your forehead. It was a gesture meant to ground not only you but also himself; the last thing he wanted was to leave your side.

You exhaled shakily as you watched him walk away from you, each step he took filling you with a growing sense of dread and vulnerability. The plan was now set in motion, and all you could do was wait for the moment to strike.

The park remained deceptively peaceful, unlike the turbulent emotions swirling within you.

As you anxiously scanned your surroundings, you knew that this operation marked a critical juncture in your journey to confront your stalker. The minutes felt like an eternity as you braced yourself for whatever might come next.

In an effort to calm and distract yourself from the mounting tension, you focused on your breathing exercises. It was a technique that had helped you cope with stressful situations in the past, and now, in this tense moment, it served as a lifeline.

The minutes continued to crawl by.

Inside a completely tinted van parked at the entrance of the park, Jongho and Seonghwa closely monitored the situation through the footage from hidden cameras worn by the undercover officers. They, too, felt the weight of the suspense as they watched you.

After what felt like hours of nervous anticipation, a man approached you, his face filled with urgency. The tension in the van escalated as everyone remained on high alert, prepared to spring into action if this man turned out to be your stalker.

"Excuse me, miss, could you help me with directions? I seem to be a bit lost," You turned to face the stranger, your heart pounding in your chest. But you let out a sigh of relief when you realised that this person looked nothing like your stalker, "Of course, I can help. Where do you need to go?"

Upon closer observation, it became apparent that he was just a civilian in need of assistance. Anxiety levels began to ebb as it became clear that this was not their target.

As you stood up and turned away from the stranger to provide directions, the unthinkable happened. In a sudden and shocking move, the man pulled out a cloth filled with chloroform and pressed it against your face. Panic seized you as you gasped for breath, the toxic fumes overpowering your senses.

It was a calculated move on the part of your assailant, exploiting the moment when everyone's guard was down.

With your form growing weaker and limp, he swiftly hoisted you over his shoulder and bolted towards the exit of the park. It was a blur of motion, and everyone reacted with lightning speed as they realised what was happening. The peaceful park had transformed into a battleground in an instant, and the race to save you had begun.

Upon the horrifying realisation of what was happening, Jongho's heart leapt into his throat. His training kicked in as he shouted in alarm, "Shit, it really is him!"

Without a moment's hesitation, he bolted out of the van, his protective instincts in full force.

The urgency in his movements was palpable as he sprinted after your stalker. In that adrenaline-fueled moment, he couldn't bear the thought of leaving you alone, and he would never forgive himself if anything were to happen to you.

Goddamnit, I never should've left her side.

Just as he was closing in on your stalker, his heart nearly stopped when he witnessed the chilling sight of your assailant successfully placing your unconscious form in his car. Panic surged through him as he watched your stalker get into the driver's seat, a devious smirk curling on his lips after pulling off the disguise that had fooled you.

It was a heart-wrenching moment as the car started to pull away, driving off with you.

Jongho cursed loudly, his desperation growing by the second. It felt as though all hope was slipping through his fingers. But just when it seemed like the situation was becoming dire, a police car screeched to a halt in front of him. The door swung open, revealing San, "Quick, get in!"

Your bodyguard didn't need to be told twice.

He dashed into the police car, his heart pounding with a mix of fear and determination. As he settled into the vehicle, San wasted no time briefing him on the situation, "Hongjoong hyung, Seonghwa hyung, and the rest of the team are following the stalker in the van. We're not giving up on this, Jongho. We'll get her back."

Jongho's mind raced with a whirlwind of emotions.

Guilt gnawed at him, a heavyweight in his chest, as he recalled the fear in your eyes when he had to leave you alone back there. He cursed himself for making promises he couldn't keep, for telling you that you'd be safe when it seemed that he hadn't done a good enough job to protect you.

He knew that his role was to be your protector, and in that crucial moment, he had been forced to leave your side. The memory of your trembling form haunted him, and he felt like he had let you down.

Beside him, San remained focused on the road, determined not to lose sight of your stalker's car. The urgency of the situation hung in the air, but the sight of Hongjoong's van catching up in their rearview mirror brought a glimmer of hope.

After a tense and heart-pounding chase, San's car finally managed to pull up alongside the stalker's vehicle. The sight of your unconscious form in the passenger seat broke Jongho's heart, and he yearned to bring you to safety at that very moment.

Soon after, Hongjoong's van caught up as well, and together, both police vehicles had your stalker's car sandwiched in the middle. It seemed like they finally had the upper hand, and relief washed over them.

But just when they thought they had the situation under control, your stalker abruptly slammed on the brakes. In a swift and daring move, he executed a U-turn and managed to escape in another direction, leaving everyone cursing in frustration.

"Shit!" The expletive escaped their lips in unison as they quickly brought their vehicles to a halt, turning around to resume the pursuit of the stalker once again.

The chase was far from over.

Your groans filled the confined space of the car, your eyes fluttering open as awareness slowly returned. As your vision cleared, you widened your eyes in horror when you realised whose car you were in. The realisation sent a shiver of dread down your spine.

"Aw, are you up already, my love?" Your stalker cooed, a sickly sweet tone in his voice.

He moved a hand toward your face, intending to touch you, but you slapped his hand away in a burst of defiance. Your rejection angered him, and he reacted by grabbing your face aggressively, his grip tightening.

"Look at me!" He hissed, his face contorted with possessiveness, "I'm the only one you should be loving, you understand?!"

Tears welled up in your eyes as you cried out, "No, let me go!" You pushed him away, a surge of fear and anger giving you the strength to resist. The struggle between you intensified, creating a dangerous situation within the moving car.

Jongho, Seonghwa, and the police officers watched in mounting panic as they observed the turmoil unfolding inside the vehicle.

Their fear for your safety reached new heights as the car swerved dangerously, the consequences of the ongoing struggle unknown and potentially deadly. The race to rescue you had become even more urgent and perilous.

The fear that had been gripping everyone's hearts became a horrifying reality.

Your stalker's car careened out of control and collided with a divider. The impact was jarring, and it sent shockwaves through the vehicle. Metal twisted and glass shattered as the car came to a halt.

Hongjoong, his voice laced with urgency, immediately called for backup and requested medical assistance upon witnessing the devastating scene. Jongho and Seonghwa felt their stomachs drop as they could only pray for your safety, the uncertainty of your condition weighing heavily on their minds.

San, displaying quick thinking and resolve, had positioned his car right in front of your assailant's, effectively blocking any chance of escape.

Even if your stalker had any intention of fleeing the scene, he was now trapped, surrounded by law enforcement officers who were determined to ensure that you were rescued and that he faced the consequences of his actions.

Jongho wasted no time rushing out of the car and toward you, his heart pounding in his chest. He took deep breaths, attempting to calm the storm of emotions raging within him as you came into sight.

His hands trembled as he approached the wreckage of the car.

A trail of blood was visible, running down the side of your face, and as Jongho carefully pulled the car door open, his heart sank. One of your arms was bent at an unnatural angle, a clear sign that it had been broken. These were only the injuries he could see, and he feared that you might be suffering from even worse internal injuries.

Seonghwa skidded to a stop beside your bodyguard, his hand flying to his mouth in shock and despair as he took in your condition. Your manager cried out and attempted to reach for you, but Hongjoong intervened, his voice filled with concern, "No, don't move her. It could cause her more injuries. Wait till backup is here, they'll get her out safely."

Meanwhile, San acted swiftly, dragging your unconscious stalker out and placing him in handcuffs. The man responsible for this terrifying ordeal was now in custody, and justice would soon be served.

The backup that Hongjoong had called soon arrived.

As the experts carefully and safely extracted you from the wreckage of the car, emergency medical technicians and paramedics immediately went to work. They assessed your injuries and quickly loaded you onto a waiting ambulance, preparing to rush you to the hospital for the urgent care you needed.

One of the EMTs turned to Jongho and Seonghwa, asking, "So, which one of you will be coming with us to the hospital?"

Jongho's instinct was to be by your side, to ensure your safety, but he quickly realised his role as your bodyguard was just that – a role. It was Seonghwa who had a genuine personal connection with you, so he remained silent, deferring to your manager, who entered the ambulance to accompany you on the way to the hospital.

As the ambulance sped away toward the hospital, your bodyguard remained behind at the scene, watching with a sense of relief and satisfaction as your stalker was finally arrested right before his eyes.

The man who had caused so much fear and distress in your life would now face the consequences of his actions, taken away in Hongjoong's van to be questioned by the police.

After the stalker had been taken into custody and the immediate crisis had been resolved, San approached Jongho, throwing an arm over his shoulder in a gesture of support, "Come on, I'll take you to the hospital."

Your fake husband's eyebrows raised in surprise at the unexpected kindness from the officer. Perhaps, in this high-stress situation, he was starting to see that San wasn't as bad as he had initially thought. Grateful for the offer, Jongho nodded, and together they left the scene to join you at the hospital.

As you lay in the ambulance with your manager by your side, drifting in and out of consciousness, you occasionally felt someone gently grasping your hand. Despite the haze in your mind and the blurriness in your vision, you mustered the strength to squeeze back weakly.

In your weakened state, you couldn't quite make out Seonghwa's face, and in a soft, barely audible whisper, you called out, "Jongho..."

Your manager's heart ached as he heard your faint plea.

At that moment, he realised just how deep the connection between you and your fake husband must have grown during this challenging ordeal. He felt a pang of sympathy for you, knowing that Jongho was, in essence, nothing more than a bodyguard hired to protect you, and he might see you as nothing more than an assignment.

At the hospital, after you had been wheeled into the emergency care unit for a thorough examination, Seonghwa waited anxiously outside, his worry evident in his furrowed brow.

It didn't take long for Jongho to arrive at the hospital as well, his concern etched on his face as he approached your manager.

Your bodyguard wasted no time inquiring about any news regarding your condition, and Seonghwa shook his head somberly. After a moment of contemplation, the elder male decided to broach a delicate subject.

In the least confrontational tone he could muster, he began to speak, "Jongho, I want to ask something of you. Please... don't give her any mixed signals that could cause her to misunderstand the nature of the relationship between you two. It was only meant to be strictly business, for her safety. I ask this for her sake, to prevent any further confusion or complications in her life."

Seonghwa's plea was driven by his concern for you, wanting to ensure that you wouldn't be burdened with additional emotional turmoil in an already difficult situation.

Jongho swallowed hard, a sense of understanding and responsibility washing over him. He nodded slowly, acknowledging the weight of your manager's words, "Of course, hyung," He replied with a hint of remorse in his voice, "I understand."

As much as it pained him to agree, he knew that Seonghwa was right. His role was clear – he was your bodyguard and your fake husband, nothing more. He was here to do a job, and the thought of seeing you in any other light was unprofessional and inappropriate. He resolved to maintain the boundaries of his role, understanding that it was for the best.

The silence between the two was palpable after their conversation, both men understood the importance of focusing on your well-being above all else. They anxiously waited for any news regarding your condition.

After what felt like an eternity, the doctor finally emerged from the unit, prompting both men to shoot up from their seats immediately.

Seonghwa immediately asked, "How is she, doc?"

The doctor did his best to maintain a neutral expression as he delivered the news.

"She's not in immediate danger, but she has sustained quite a few internal injuries. Her liver has been damaged due to a broken rib. She's also suffering from a mild concussion. Other than the broken arm, those are her main injuries. We will need to schedule surgery to address the liver damage, and she'll have to stay in the hospital for an extensive period for monitoring and follow-up treatments."

The gravity of the situation hung heavily in the air as Seonghwa and Jongho processed the doctor's words, their primary concern now ensuring your recovery.

As the two men were finally allowed to enter your temporary ward before your surgery, you slowly peeled your eyelids open, feeling a surge of emotions as your tear-filled eyes met the sight of Jongho standing behind Seonghwa.

At that moment, you let a few tears escape.

You had been so frightened when you woke up in your stalker's car, and all you had wanted was to be near Jongho. The relief you felt when you saw him in San's car through the rearview mirror had been overwhelming. You realised that you couldn't deny your feelings for him any longer.

You knew it hadn't been long since you had met him, and the circumstances under which you had come to know him were far from ordinary. But the bond that had formed between you during this ordeal was undeniable, and you couldn't help but fall for him.

As you lay in the hospital bed, you found comfort in the presence of your protectors, silently hoping that your feelings wouldn't complicate the already complex situation you were all in.

After ensuring that you were stable, Seonghwa left the room to handle the paperwork, hospital fees, and to coordinate with your management team for the necessary actions.

This left Jongho alone with you in the room.

He approached you slowly and took a seat beside your hospital bed. His hand lifted as if he wanted to touch your face, but he hesitated and let it drop.

You furrowed your brows in confusion and disappointment, wondering why he had pulled away.

He glanced over your injuries once more, recalling what the doctor had said. In a whispered voice, he expressed his guilt, "God, it's all my fault you're hurt. I'm sorry for not doing a good enough job out there. I failed as your bodyguard, I failed to keep you safe."

You shook your head, attempting to reach out and hold his hand for comfort, but he pulled away before you could touch him. His rejection hurt you more than your physical injuries, leaving you feeling confused and rejected.

As you lay there in the hospital bed, trying to make sense of Jongho's actions and his decision to push you away, you reflected on your earlier thoughts. You had initially believed that once your stalker was captured, everything would finally return to normal, and life would be great again.

But now, as you grappled with his distancing behaviour, you began to realise that you might have preferred the time when all he cared about was being near you and protecting you.

The reality hit you hard – things hadn't been as great as you had imagined because if there were no more threats, there would be no need for him in your life. This meant that he might not be by your side for long, and the prospect of his absence left you feeling a deep sense of loss and longing for the connection you had formed.

As time passed in the hospital, you had initially believed that Jongho's cold and distant behaviour was a result of the immense guilt he felt for your injuries.

However, it became evident that there was more to it.

After your surgery and the weeks of treatments, you had spent nearly a month in the hospital. During this time, you suffered emotionally more than you ever had before because your bodyguard had transformed into a stoic and distant figure.

Jongho now asserted that since your stalker had been arrested, there was no longer any need for him to play the role of your fake husband. He emphasised that he was only your bodyguard now and that he should behave as such. This change in his attitude and the distance he maintained left you feeling hurt and confused, as if a significant connection had been severed between you two.

Seonghwa had left your room after his visit one night, leaving you alone with Jongho once again. He stood stoically by the corner of your room, his gaze fixed straight ahead.

The tension between you had become unbearable, and you voiced your frustration, "Are you really going to keep acting this way? I thought we were at least friends after everything we've been through."

He remained unmoving, as if he hadn't heard your words.

You let out a tired sigh and continued, "Fine. Just... I'm feeling like some fruit juice. Could you just run to the cafeteria and get me some of that?" You had decided to send him out, hoping he could have a moment to himself. You needed a break from his cold and distant presence, even if it was just for a little while.

As he gave a curt nod and left your room, you leaned back in your bed, staring out of the window in the deafening silence.

Doubts and questions swirled in your mind, wondering if the bond you thought had developed between you and him had been one-sided all along. Perhaps he had been that skilled at acting, so convincing in pretending that he genuinely cared. It left you feeling deceived and uncertain about the true nature of your relationship with him.

Meanwhile, Jongho clenched his fists in frustration once he was out of your room. Anger swelled within him, directed both at himself and at the situation. He hated having to hurt you like this, but he knew it was necessary if he wanted to respect Seonghwa's words.

He kept repeating to himself that it was for the best.

As he stood in line at the cafeteria, ready to order your favourite juice, his phone rang. The caller ID displayed San's name, and he wondered why the officer would be calling him at this hour.

He picked up the call, "Hey, San hyung. What's up?"

But before he could even get a response, what he heard on the other end of the line almost made him drop his phone. He didn't waste a second before he started running back to your room. San's urgent voice rang in his ears, "The stalker, he's escaped from his cell. We fear he's going to find her."

Fear gripped his heart as he rushed back to your room.

He was relieved to hear that the police were sending reinforcements to the hospital and that they had contacted Seonghwa. But as he approached your room, his heart sank when he saw the door, which had been previously closed, now left slightly ajar.

He pushed the door open cautiously, adrenaline surging through his veins. As he stepped inside, he noticed that you were no longer in your bed. Panic welled up inside him, and he quickly scanned the room, heart dropping to the deepest pit of his stomach at the sight of blood droplets staining your bed.

Shit, this is all my fault.

His heart pounded in his chest as he followed the trail of bloodstains, his mind racing with a million thoughts.

He blamed himself for being distant and cold when you needed him the most. Guilt gnawed at him, making it hard to focus. He knew he had to find you quickly, but his own self-condemnation threatened to overwhelm him.

As he continued to follow the bloodstains, he thought about the moments you had shared, the connection that had formed between you. It was in these tense moments that he realised just how much he cared about you.

And he couldn't bear the thought of anything happening to you.

Jongho was in turmoil as he followed the trail of blood to the rooftop, his emotions a chaotic whirlwind. He promised himself that if he found you safe and sound, he wouldn't hide his feelings anymore. You deserved to know how much he cared about you, regardless of the circumstances that had brought you together.

He jumped when his phone rang, hands trembling as he accepted the call from San, "Hyung, he's got her. I found a trail of blood from her bed that led to the rooftop."

Sensing his panic, the officer responds, "Alright, breathe, Jongho. Backup is already stationed around the premises of the building. I'm going to need you to go up there and do your best to diffuse the situation, I'll be there with Hongjoong hyung soon."

He nodded, even though San couldn't see him over the phone.

He took a deep breath to steady himself, feeling a rush of determination to find you and protect you at all costs. The rooftop was the last place he wanted to be, filled with danger and uncertainty, but he had no choice.

With swift but cautious steps, he ascended the stairs leading to the rooftop. His heart raced with each passing moment, imagining what kind of confrontation he might face with your stalker. But he couldn't afford to let fear paralyse him. He had a job to do, and that job was to save you.

Deep down, he hoped that he could make amends for his previous behaviour by rescuing you and proving that he would always be there for you when it truly mattered.

As Jongho pushed open the door to the rooftop, his heart pounded in his chest, and his mind raced with fear.

The chilling sight that met his eyes filled him with dread.

There you were, standing helplessly in front of your stalker, a knife pressing dangerously against your neck. Your bodyguard's jaw clenched as he took in the nightmarish scene.

The stalker's deranged words echoed in the eerie silence of the rooftop, "I loved you so much, I dedicated my everything to you," He hissed, his voice filled with twisted devotion, "And yet, this is what you try to do? Lock me away for the rest of my life? I told you, if I can't have you, then no one else can. Today, I'll make sure we stay together forever. We'll jump down here together, alright?"

Your frightened whimper tore at Jongho's heart, and he watched helplessly as the stalker pressed a disgusting kiss against your cheek, his words dripping with sickening affection, "Shh, don't be scared. I'll be here with you every step of the way."

Jongho's fists clenched at his sides, anger and fear warring within him. He knew he had to act fast to save you, even if it meant risking his own life. With a determined step forward, he raised his voice, his words laced with unwavering resolve.

"Enough! Let her go, you bastard!"

Your stalker growled menacingly at your fake husband, "You fool, did you really think you could steal her away from me? No one, and I mean no one loves her more than I do. You think you know her? Well, I bet you don't know her better than I do. You're temporary, Choi Jongho. I'm her forever. Don't worry though, she won't have time to miss you in the afterlife. I'll take good care of her."

The wind whipped around the rooftop, carrying with it the sinister words of your stalker. His grip on the knife was unyielding. Jongho's gaze remained locked on your trembling form, his heart aching at the despair in your eyes.

He couldn't let this madman take you away.

Steeling himself, he retorted, "You're the real fool here. Love isn't about obsession and possession. It's about caring for someone, respecting their choices, and ensuring their happiness. You're incapable of love; you're just a deranged stalker."

The stalker's eyes flickered with rage at his words, and he tightened his grip on the knife, pressing it even closer to your neck, "Don't push me, Choi Jongho. I can end this for both of us right now."

But Jongho refused to back down.

He took a cautious step closer, his voice steady despite the adrenaline coursing through his veins, "You don't have to do this. You can still stop, let her go, and surrender peacefully. There's help for you, too."

The stalker's face contorted with fury, his sanity slipping further away, and he pushed you further towards the edge.

Tears streamed down your face as you stared at your bodyguard, silently begging for help. You knew the chances of survival were slim, but you couldn't give up, not when there were still so many people who cared about you.

With a trembling voice, you whispered, "Jongho, please..."

The stalker's grip tightened, and he pressed the knife closer to your throat. His voice was a chilling hiss, "Say your goodbyes, my love. You'll be with me soon."

It was at that moment that San and Hongjoong burst in through the door to the rooftop.

The stalker's eyes widened in terror at their presence, guns drawn and aimed squarely at him. His fingers trembled, and he took a step back, his grip on you loosening slightly. The officers had the situation under control, and the stalker knew he was trapped.

Cornered and left with no choice, the stalker decided now would be the perfect time to jump, "See you in the afterlife, my love."

As his desperate voice echoed through the rooftop, his manic determination pushed him to the edge. Before anyone could react, he lunged forward, grabbing you and pulling you down with him. Panic surged through you as you plummeted towards the ground, but then you felt a strong grip on your hand.

Jongho acted swiftly, leaping forward to grab you just in time.

Your scream echoed, but your bodyguard's strength was unwavering. He held on with every ounce of determination, his muscles straining as he fought to keep you from falling.

San and Hongjoong rushed forward, their faces etched with urgency, to assist Jongho in pulling you back onto the rooftop. Their combined strength proved enough to counteract the stalker's final attempt to take you with him. With a collective effort, they hoisted you up to safety, setting you down gently on the rooftop.

Seonghwa, who had been watching in sheer terror, let out a shuddering breath as he saw you safe and sound. The danger had passed, and you were once again out of harm's way.

While you were safe on the rooftop, the situation with your stalker unfolded below. His descent had been cushioned by the firefighters' safety air cushion, preventing his immediate demise. But he was not met with a moment of freedom. Instead, he was immediately surrounded by a swarm of law enforcement officers.

Police officers, with guns drawn and handcuffs at the ready, approached him cautiously. This time, they had taken no chances, and the security measures were heightened to ensure he wouldn't escape again.

It was clear that his reign of terror was coming to an end.

As the authorities apprehended him, his eyes darted around in wild desperation, realising that his plan had failed miserably.

He had hoped to take you with him to whatever twisted version of an afterlife he had imagined, but now he was facing the harsh reality of the legal system. His love, which had become an obsession, had led him down a dark path, and he was finally being held accountable for his actions.

On the rooftop, you were overcome with a mixture of relief and emotional exhaustion.

Tears streamed down your face as you clung to Jongho, who held you tightly in his arms. He whispered soothing words and assurances, "Hey, hey, you're safe. I've got you." Your heart still raced from the adrenaline, and you trembled in his embrace. It had been a terrifying ordeal, but you were safe now, and that's all that mattered.

After Hongjoong left to deal with the stalker downstairs, San approached the two of you with a wide grin. He played a crucial role in ensuring your safety, and he couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. Saving a famous celebrity was something he would undoubtedly brag about for the rest of his life.

He chuckled lightly and patted Jongho on the back, "You guys okay?" He asked, his voice filled with genuine concern. You nodded, your voice shaky but filled with gratitude, "Thank you, San. Thank you, all of you. You saved my life."

San waved it off modestly, "It's our job, but I'm just glad you're safe."

The officer later accompanied Jongho and you back to your hospital room, where Seonghwa had been anxiously waiting. When he saw you, his eyes welled up with tears, and he rushed forward, enveloping you in a tight and careful hug. He was mindful of your injuries, especially the small but fresh cut on your neck.

"Oh, thank god, you're alright," He whispered, his voice trembling with relief, "I promised your parents I'd take good care of you."

You smiled warmly into his shoulder, patting him on the back, "And you did, Hwa. You always have."

Jongho watched the two of you, feeling a tiny hint of jealousy bubbling within him. He knew that Seonghwa was like a brother to you, but his newfound feelings for you made it challenging to remain rational and suppress those emotions.

Soon after, the doctor and nurses flooded the room, ready to check on your condition and ensure you were recovering well. It was a whirlwind of emotions and activity, but you were just grateful to be alive and surrounded by people who cared deeply about you.

The two men were asked to leave the ward while the medical team checked on you.

Outside your hospital room, they sat down on a bench, away from the commotion inside. Jongho knew he had to be honest with Seonghwa about his growing feelings for you. He took a deep breath and began, "Hyung, I can't deny it anymore. I... I have feelings for her."

There was a brief silence that made the younger male anxious, fearing that this revelation might cost him his position as your bodyguard. But to his surprise, your manager smiled, "Yeah, I know. I was waiting to see how long it would take for you to finally admit it."

Jongho blinked, taken aback by the response, "You knew? How?"

Seonghwa chuckled, his gaze fixed on the door to your room, "I've known her for a long time, Jongho. I've seen the way she looks at you, even before all this happened. You two have been through a lot together, and feelings like these are bound to happen. Just promise me you'll be patient and take good care of her. She deserves someone who'll protect her heart as well as her safety."

Your bodyguard nodded, a mixture of relief and determination washing over him, "I promise, hyung. I'll do my best for her," Seonghwa patted his shoulder with a knowing smile, "That's all I wanted to hear."

Seonghwa looked at him with a thoughtful expression, "But there is one more thing..." He added, causing the younger male's anxiety to resurface. Jongho swallowed hard, fearing what else your manager might reveal, "What is it, hyung?"

"You do know that we will have to reveal the truth about the fake marriage to the public once the stalker gets properly taken care of by the authorities, right?"

Jongho nodded, the weight of that truth settling on his shoulders, "I'm aware of that. I know I'm only her fake husband, and I will have to work very hard to earn my spot as her actual partner. For now, I just want to do my job as her protector for as long as you'll allow me."

Seonghwa smiled, patting him on the back once again, "I appreciate your honesty, Jongho. And I'm sure she will too. Just remember, love isn't something that can be rushed. Take your time, and who knows what the future holds."

With those words of encouragement, the two men settled into a companionable silence, watching over your room as you continued your recovery. It was a challenging path ahead, but Jongho was now determined not only to protect you but also to win your heart when the time was right.

A week had passed since the night of the rooftop confrontation with your stalker. He had been charged and sentenced to five years in prison, coupled with a hefty fine and a restraining order that would keep him far away from you.

The weight of fear and anxiety that had hung over your life for so long was finally lifting.

The stalker's sentencing brought relief that washed over you as you lay in your hospital bed. Seonghwa was busy cutting up some fruit for you while Jongho sat on your other side. He had resumed his role as your protector, but there was something different in the air now. He seemed more at ease, more like the person who had been by your side during the fake marriage.

As you watched the news report on the TV, you muttered softly, "Oh, thank god," Your manager turned to you with a reassuring smile, "Yes, it's finally over. You can rest easy now."

Jongho nodded in agreement, his gaze briefly meeting yours. It was a small gesture, but it meant the world to you. It felt like things were slowly returning to normal, and you enjoyed the comfortable presence of the man who had once been your fake husband.

You wanted to say something, to ask if you were friends now or something more, but you decided to let things develop naturally.

For now, you were content just to have him by your side, protecting you, and maybe, just maybe, something more would blossom between you in due time.

After your release from the hospital, life slowly began to return to normalcy. Your label had released a statement revealing the truth about Jongho being your bodyguard and fake husband, all in an effort to protect you from the stalker who was now behind bars.

The transparency about the situation surprised you, but you knew it was the right decision to put any misconceptions to rest.

To your surprise, your fans' reactions were overwhelmingly positive.

Most of them had been shipping you and Jongho since the reveal, and they found your fake marriage incredibly cute. They didn't hide their support, and the messages and comments flooded your social media, expressing their hopes that you and your bodyguard would someday end up together for real.

As you scrolled through these messages, your cheeks grew warm, and a smile tugged at your lips. It was heartwarming to see the outpouring of affection from your fans. While you knew that your relationship with Jongho was still complicated and undefined, you felt a glimmer of hope regardless.

Life had returned to its hectic pace after your recovery, with your schedule packed full of work commitments.

You received numerous job offers, and among them, you accepted a female lead role in a highly anticipated drama. You also became an ambassador for a well-known fashion brand. The entertainment industry welcomed you back with open arms, and you relished every moment of it.

Your days were filled with rehearsals, shoots, and public appearances, and you loved every minute of it. The rush of being on set, bringing characters to life, and attending glamorous events made you feel truly alive.

What made it all the better was Jongho's continued presence by your side. To your surprise, he had agreed to stay on as your bodyguard. Despite his initial reservations and the complicated nature of your relationship, he was there for you, offering you his unwavering support and protection.

No matter how busy your work became, knowing that he was there made everything feel more manageable. His watchful presence gave you a sense of security, and you found comfort in his quiet strength.

As your fan meeting event was in full swing, you sat at the centre of the stage, surrounded by adoring fans. Jongho, as always, stood protectively behind you, vigilant and watchful. Your fans were known for their playfulness and ability to tease.

Today was no exception.

Amid the questions and comments from the audience, someone playfully asked your bodyguard if he thought you looked prettier with or without makeup. His cheeks flushed, and he cleared his throat, trying to maintain a composed demeanour.

But you couldn't resist adding to the fun. You pushed the microphone towards him, a mischievous glint in your eye, and he blinked at you.

Realising you weren't going to let him off the hook easily, he sighed and reluctantly took the microphone. His answer was timid, and his voice quivered slightly, "She looks beautiful either way. She's... she's always beautiful, no matter what she does."

His response sent the crowd into a frenzy of excited screams and cheers. Some fans even shouted, "He's in love! He's in love with her, I knew it!" Jongho shook his head, trying to downplay the situation as he passed the microphone back to you.

Seonghwa, watching from the sidelines, shot you a warning glare.

It was a silent reminder not to fuel any rumours or speculation about your relationship with Jongho. While your fans may have shipped the two of you, you both knew that there were lines that needed to be respected, especially in the world of celebrity and personal security.

After the fan event ended, Seonghwa wasted no time in giving you a stern lecture for your reckless actions on stage.

You listened quietly, well aware that your playfulness might have caused trouble for the PR team. You didn't want to worsen the situation by talking back or defending your actions.

Jongho, seeing you being scolded, couldn't bear it.

He stepped in, attempting to take some of the blame upon himself, "Hyung, it's my fault too," He said, "I shouldn't have played along." He meant well, but his choice of words ended up stinging you. You turned to face him, your expression a mix of hurt and confusion.

"Play along?" You asked in a small voice, "So, you didn't mean what you said?"

Your manager, sensing that this was a personal conversation that needed privacy, quietly excused himself from the meeting room, leaving you and Jongho alone to sort out your feelings.

Sheesh, about damn time they addressed the elephant in the room.

Your emotions had reached a breaking point, and you couldn't contain your feelings any longer. You confronted him, your voice laced with frustration and a hint of sadness.

"If you don't feel the same, then just let me know once and for all," You told him, your voice trembling, "So I can finally move on from you. Do you even know how many guys out there would die to date me? And here you are, messing with my feelings. Who do you think you are, Choi Jongho?"

Tears welled up in your eyes despite your attempt to sound tough, and the vulnerability in your voice and the tears in your eyes spoke volumes about how deeply you cared for him and how much his actions had affected you.

Jongho could see the pain in your eyes, and it cut him to the core. He knew he had to be honest with you now, no matter the consequences.

Taking a deep breath, he stepped closer to you and gently cupped your face in his hands, his touch making your heart race.

"I'm so sorry," He began, his eyes locked onto yours, "I never meant to hurt you. The truth is, I do feel something for you, something more than just my duty as a bodyguard. But I've been trying to keep my distance, thinking it was the right thing to do. I didn't want to blur the lines between our professional relationship and something more. But I can't deny my feelings any longer. I care about you a lot."

He let his words hang in the air, the weight of his confession heavy in the room, "I understand if you're angry or hurt, but I needed you to know the truth. I'm here for you, no matter what you decide."

You couldn't contain your frustration any longer as you pushed his chest weakly, a mixture of exasperation and affection in your voice, "Oh, you idiot," His gaze dropped, expecting rejection, but your next words took him completely by surprise, "Why couldn't you have just told me that from the beginning?"

His head shot up, eyes wide with disbelief and hope. And before he could come up with a response, you pressed your lips against his.

There was a moment of hesitation, as if you both couldn't quite believe this was happening. But then, the world seemed to fade away as you both melted into the kiss, and he pulled you closer, his arms wrapping tightly around you.

It was a kiss that spoke of all the unspoken words, all the longing that had been hidden for far too long.

It was a kiss that marked the beginning of something new, something real, and something beautiful between you and the man who had once been just your bodyguard but had now become so much more.

Meanwhile, Seonghwa had been silently listening to your conversation from outside the door. He couldn't help but be curious about what was transpiring between you two, especially after all the secrecy and tension that surrounded your fake marriage.

As he pushed the door open slightly to get a better view, he was not prepared for the scene that greeted him. Seeing you and Jongho locked in a passionate kiss, his eyes widened in surprise.

Clearing his throat loudly to announce his presence, he succeeded in startling both of you. Caught off guard by your manager's sudden appearance, you jumped apart, your cheeks flushed with embarrassment.

But the mischievous grin on Seonghwa's face told you that he was clearly enjoying this moment.

"Oh, your fans are gonna love this." He quipped with a knowing look.

You and Jongho exchanged glances before bursting into laughter, the tension from your confession melting away.

As you found your way back into his arms, he pulled you close and pressed a gentle kiss to your temple, his affectionate gesture drawing a contented smile from you. Whatever challenges lay ahead, you were ready to face them together.

The decision not to announce your relationship to the public was one you both made together, driven by the desire to establish a stable foundation for your love before sharing it with the world.

You understood that public scrutiny and the demands of fame could add complexities to a relationship, and you wanted to ensure that your bond was strong enough to withstand these challenges.

Despite being deeply in love and already a couple in private, you continued to play your respective roles as a celebrity and dedicated bodyguard when in the public eye. To outsiders, nothing had changed, and you maintained the professional distance that your positions required.

This was necessary to avoid any unnecessary complications or misunderstandings.

Only a select few individuals were privy to the truth of your relationship. Seonghwa, being your trusted manager and confidant, was among those who knew. Additionally, a handful of staff members from your label who had been close to you were also aware of your budding romance. These individuals respected your desire for privacy and provided you with the necessary support and discretion.

As days turned into weeks, you and Jongho continued your secret romance, relishing the stolen moments of affection you could share while maintaining your public personas.

Despite the need for secrecy, you exchanged meaningful glances whenever you could. You'd occasionally sneak a quick kiss when you thought nobody was looking, and Jongho, though he warned you about the risks, often found himself giving in to you.

Your days remained busy, with your demanding schedules, but you were both incredibly happy.

The fatigue seemed to fade away with your boyfriend by your side. Jongho was not only devoted to your safety but also your general well-being, making sure you were taken care of in every way possible.

Your relationship grew stronger day by day, and you both knew that when the time was right, you would reveal your love to the world. Until then, you cherished the moments you had together, grateful for the love and support that had blossomed between you.

While your boyfriend agreed to keep your relationship a secret for your sake, there were times when his patience was tested.

And tonight was one of those nights.

The atmosphere in the upscale restaurant was buzzing with excitement as you and the cast and crew of your latest drama celebrated its successful completion. The evening had been filled with laughter, clinking glasses, and heartfelt toasts to commemorate the hard work that had gone into the production.

You, the beloved actress, had basked in the adoration of your colleagues and enjoyed the festivities.

But as the night wore on, and the alcohol flowed freely, the atmosphere began to change. The friendly camaraderie between colleagues started to give way to a few more bold interactions. It was in this slightly inebriated state that one of your co-stars decided to make his move.

The actor, emboldened by liquid courage, slid closer to you as you sipped your soju, offering you a refill with a sly grin. His compliments became more personal, his touches lingering a little too long.

Although you maintained your composure and politeness, you felt incredibly uncomfortable.

Jongho, who had been discreetly watching you from a nearby table, noticed the situation escalating. His eyes narrowed as he saw the co-star's advances becoming increasingly inappropriate.

His protective instincts kicked in, and he struggled with the urge to intervene. He knew that publicly revealing his feelings for you might jeopardise your career, but seeing you in discomfort was something he couldn't bear.

He silently scanned the room for your manager, hoping he could step in, but Seonghwa was occupied elsewhere.

With every passing moment, Jongho's internal battle raged. He clenched his jaw, his fists tightening in frustration. He was torn between his duty as your bodyguard and his desire to protect you from unwanted advances.

He knew you could handle yourself, but the combination of alcohol and the actor's persistence made him uneasy. He decided that he couldn't stand by any longer; he needed to step in and protect you.

With a determined expression, he excused himself from the staff table, leaving behind his unfinished meal and the curious gazes of those who knew him as your bodyguard. He swiftly approached the scene, his imposing figure making an impression as he stood between you and the persistent co-star.

The actor's smug demeanour faltered as he met Jongho's cold, unwavering gaze, "I think she made herself clear. It's time for you to step back."

Your co-star smirked in disbelief, "And who are you? If she didn't want me around her, she would've said so herself. Go back to your staff table and stay out of this."

A hushed murmur spread through the gathered staff and colleagues. Everyone seemed taken aback by the audacity of the co-star's actions and his blatant disregard for boundaries. It was clear that he might have had one too many drinks.

You exchanged a quick glance with Jongho, who had remained stoic in the face of the actor's defiance. Your boyfriend's face was unreadable, but you could sense the simmering anger beneath his composed exterior.

"Who am I? I'm her boyfriend, and you need to back off." Jongho asserted, his voice steady and unwavering.

Seonghwa, who had returned just in time to witness the unfolding confrontation, couldn't believe his ears. He stood frozen, jaw dropped, as he tried to process Jongho's unexpected revelation.

The entire room seemed to hold its breath.

The co-star, clearly inebriated and in disbelief, let out a laugh, "You're delusional, aren't you? Why would she date you, of all people?" He jeered, not taking your boyfriend's claim seriously.

Frowning in frustration, you decided it was time to set the record straight. In a bold move, you moved closer to Jongho, intertwining your fingers with his. It was a clear and unspoken declaration of your relationship, a message to the actor that his advances were neither welcome nor wanted.

"It's true, he is my boyfriend. And I'd appreciate it if you could show him some respect."

The room fell into a stunned silence as the truth settled in. The co-star's expression changed from arrogance to bewilderment, and then a staff member, recognising the situation, quickly stepped in to pull the drunk actor away from the table.

As the co-star was led away, the atmosphere shifted.

The shock was replaced by cheers and applause from the gathered staff and colleagues. Words of excitement and support filled the room as they realised that you and Jongho were finally confirming what they had suspected all along.

"It's about damn time! We've waited too long for this confirmation!" Someone shouted, summing up the sentiment in the room.

You and Jongho exchanged bewildered looks before sharing a hearty laugh at the unexpected turn of events. While you had intended to keep your relationship a secret, sometimes, circumstances had a way of bringing hidden feelings to the surface.

After the incident that eventful night, you and Jongho decided to take the plunge and announce your relationship to the world.

The news sent shockwaves through your fanbase.

Your fans were overjoyed that their dreams of you two being together had finally come true. They flooded your social media accounts with endless congratulations and well-wishes, thanking you for sharing your love story with them.

As for the drunk co-star, he eventually sobered up and realised the gravity of his actions.

Filled with remorse, he mustered the courage to approach both you and your boyfriend to apologise for his shameful behaviour. He admitted his wrongdoing and expressed his sincere regret for his misguided actions that night. You, being the gracious person you were, forgave him without hesitation.

With your relationship out in the open and your fans' overwhelming support, you and Jongho embarked on a new chapter together, excited to see what the future held for you as a couple in the spotlight.

A few months had passed since your relationship was made public.

Your latest fan meeting event was in full swing, and this time, your fans had become bolder with their teasing questions.

Jongho, standing protectively behind you, had a hard time containing his laughter throughout the event. As the questions from your fans flowed, one brave soul finally asked, "Jongho! When will you make her your real wife?"

The question hung in the air, and you felt a sudden wave of tension in the room. You didn't dare look at your boyfriend, fearing what his response might be. After a moment, you heard him move to pick up the microphone from beside you. Your heart raced as he took the stage, his voice steady and sincere.

"I'm always ready to be her real husband," Jongho declared, his words causing a collective gasp and excitement among the crowd, "It's just up to her when she wants to take that step."

The hall erupted into cheers and applause as he leaned down to press a kiss onto your head. Your heart pounded in your chest as you turned to look at him, searching for any hint that he might be joking. His eyes held nothing but sincerity, and it became clear that he meant every word he had just said.

The realisation hit you like a tidal wave, leaving you both surprised and thrilled at the prospect of a future together as more than just a celebrity and her bodyguard.

As you got home that evening, you had been unusually quiet after the event, and Jongho grew concerned. While you were busy removing your makeup, he approached you from behind, his fingers gently playing with your hair.

"Are you alright, baby?" He asked softly.

Your actions halted, and you stood up, turning to face him. With an accusing finger, you pointed at him, "You... were you serious about what you said earlier? Do... do you really mean it?" Vulnerability shone in your eyes, and you needed him to be honest.

His expression softened, and he nodded, his hands moving to grasp your waist and pull you close, "Of course, I was serious. Why would I joke about something like that?" He replied sincerely.

You frowned, playfully slapping him on his chest.

"I don't know! You're an idiot like that sometimes—" He cut you off with a reassuring kiss. His lips on yours spoke volumes, confirming the truth in his words, and the worries that had lingered began to melt away as you shared a passionate moment.

The next day at work, everyone teased you relentlessly after Jongho's sweet words went viral online in a fan-recorded video. You waved them off, your cheeks still pink with embarrassment.

"Oh, there you are! Come with me," Seonghwa said, pulling you away from your gossiping colleagues. You furrowed your brows, "What is it, Hwa?"

He shushed you with a knowing smile, "You'll find out soon."

You wondered what he needed you for as he led you towards the main lobby. Then, you gasped in surprise when you found the whole place decorated with balloons that spelt out 'Will you marry me.' Your heart raced, and your eyes filled with tears as your boyfriend stood in the centre of the room, holding a bouquet of roses.

Seonghwa gave you a gentle push towards Jongho.

Your legs felt shaky as you approached him, and you could barely hold back the tears. He knelt down in front of you, his eyes filled with love and sincerity. This was the moment you'd been longing for, and he finally asked you the question you'd always dreamed of hearing.

"Will you finally allow me to be your real husband?" He said, his voice filled with emotion. Overwhelmed with joy, you nodded vigorously, tears streaming down your cheeks, "I thought you'd never ask."

The room erupted in applause and cheers as he slipped a beautiful engagement ring onto your finger, sealing your love and commitment to each other. You laughed through your happy tears, knowing that your life from now on would be filled with endless love.

As you lay together in bed that night, you refused to succumb to sleep, your eyes trained on your fiancé.

Jongho sighed lightly, peeling open his eyes to look at you, "Oh, will you please go to sleep? You have a long day tomorrow," You grinned, pressing closer to him, "I want to look at you for a bit more."

He chuckled, his fingers gently tracing patterns on your back, "You're so silly. You look at me every day, and still, you want to look at me now," You bit your lip playfully, leaving a kiss on his jaw, "Well, it's different now. You're about to be my real husband soon."

His heart melted at your words as he cupped your cheek, his thumb stroking your skin, "I love you so much, you know that?"

You nodded, your eyes filled with affection, and he finally kissed you on your lips, sealing your love in that sweet moment.

As you wrapped your arms around each other, you both knew that your journey together was just beginning, and the future held endless possibilities and happiness for the two of you.

This one is for all the Jongho stans out there who are suffering as well. We're in this together! So happy to have Seonghwa assure us that our baby bear is recovering well.

Anyway, hope y'all liked this and as always, leave as many replies as you want to let me know your thoughts! <3

Lastly, feel free to drop a reply or message if you wish to be part of the permanent tag list (or if you wish to be removed, I'd understand).

Tag list: @aurasblue @marievllr-abg @itsvxlentine @minghaoslatina

All Rights Reserved © edenesth // DO NOT REPOST, TRANSLATE, PLAGIARISE OR REPURPOSE.

#ateez #ateez fanfic #ateez fanfiction #choi jongho #ateez jongho #fake marriage au #bodyguard au #jongho x reader #jongho x you #ateez fic #jongho oneshot #ateez oneshot

[ohnoitstbskyen]

On God of War and "canon" in Norse mythology

Playing God of War: Ragnarök and reading writing about it reminds me of something a lot of people have trouble internalizing about Norse myth, which is is that

The vast, overwhelming majority of Norse mythology is lost and

There is no "canon" in Norse mythology

The concept of "canon" in religion is, at least in the west, very much a Christian thing (yes, it's also a feature of other religions). The idea that there is an authorized, central, divinely ordained, "official" central set of facts which are true, and everything else is fanfiction at best or heresy at worst.

And this is something we've taken with us into our general media criticism, hundreds of thousands of words exchanged between people debating which parts of Star Wars or the MCU are canon, or endlessly cycling through interpretations of what parts of Tolkien's mythos apply to each part of the Lord of the Rings or the Hobbit. I've participated in those discussions, and they can be a lot of fun, but it's worth remembering that this is only one of multiple ways to approach writing and narrative.

Norse mythology has no canon. There is no set of texts that have been declared by any central authority to be "the truth" of the Allfather, or the most correct depiction of Thor. Even in its own time, before its suppression by Christianity, Viking-age sailors, farmers and warriors would not have understood their religious practise as bounded by a finite and defined set of stories. It was an oral tradition, transmitted by telling and re-telling.

Your skjald knows some stories of the gods, maybe the guy the next town over knows some different ones, and maybe you go on a trading journey with a guy from Norway who knows completely different stories and you take those home with you where they become a part of the local rotation.

The primary sources for most Norse mythology (and certainly for God of War: Ragnarök) are the Prose Edda and Poetic Edda, two collections of texts compiled in the 13th century in Iceland by Snorri Sturluson, a Christian poet and politician, as well as possibly other contributors at the same time.

They are limited by their geography, consisting only of those stories that survived in Iceland, and limited by their time period. The Viking Age is generally considered to have ended around 1050 CE, so Sturluson was compiling these stories two hundred years after the time when Norse paganism would have been the dominant religious practise in Scandinavia or indeed Iceland.

We have other sources than the Eddas, of course, but they are painfully limited: Runestones and archeological artifacts, as well as stories told about the Vikings by people who weren't them, which obviously comes with a lot of biases. The Viking-era Scandinavians themselves simply didn't leave any substantial body of written sources that survived.

Sturluson being a Christian, writing for Christian audiences, also introduces a lot of suspicion of tampering. He might have had incentive to avoid recording certain stories, for fear of being accused of spreading heresy, and he may have edited or altered aspects of the stories he did record to make them palatable to his audience, or to serve his own political purposes. This, of course, is a concern with any author writing anything ever, but since Sturluson is quite literally our only source for so many of these stories, it is impossible to check his work against competing narratives.

The consequence of all of this is that the vast majority of Norse mythology is lost. We do not know the vast majority of what that old religious practise was, we do not know the vast majority of its stories. This was a set of beliefs and stories told and transmitted across populations ranging from what is now the inland plains of Germany to the heights of the mountains of Norway to the shores and harbors of Denmark to parts of modern day Russia. These disparate populations would have had an absolutely enormous range of shared and local religious practises, they would have emphasized and cared about different gods, they would have absorbed and incorporated stories from neighboring religious groups.

This has a couple of consequences. For one thing, the whiny pissbabies crying about Angrboða being portrayed as a person of color in God of War: Ragnarök because "there were no black people in Norse mythology!" are, indeed, full of piss and expired baby oil. They don't know that, because nobody knows that.

Viking sailors made it as far as Constantinople and old Norse was once spoken in parts of Crimea. They even managed to make it across the goddamn Atlantic to found a settlement in Newfoundland, so the idea that old Norse peoples wouldn't know what a person of color is or tell stories about them is just absurd on the face of it. We have no direct evidence that they told stories about gods of color, but to look at the tiny snapshot provided by one Christian poet writing for a Christian audience in Iceland two hundred years after the Christianization of Scandinavia and confidently concluding that people of color couldn't possibly have existed in the Norse imagination is like finding the Q key off a keyboard lying on the ground and concluding there can be no such thing as vowels or the letter L.

The tiny sliver of Norse mythology that has survived to the modern day should to a modern reader be a prompt to imagine the vast possibility of what has been lost, not a reason to reduce the entire culture of my ancestors to whatever bits that were left by the time some dude in Iceland found it interesting and convenient to write them down.

Which leads us on to the other interesting consequence of the facts of Norse mythology.

It is an oral tradition, with no central canon and no central authority, whose religious practises were local and varied, whose stories were designed to be shared and picked up by whoever finds them compelling. Which means that any story we tell, now, about the gods that we find compelling is every bit as "canon" as anything that survives in the Eddas.

Which is to say: not canon at all, unless you decide to believe in it. Or, hell, even if you just find it enjoyable.

God of War: Ragnarök is as canon as Neil Gaiman's Norse Mythology is as canon as Jul i Valhal that ran on Danish TV in 2005 is as canon as the MCU Thor, is as canon as the Prose Edda, is as canon as the half-remembered re-telling of Norse myth I heard from my Danish teacher in class in 1998.

It is often very difficult for a lot of modern audiences to free themselves from the idea of "canon." We seem to instinctively want a certain set of stories to be "the real ones," a certain narrative to be the "official" one, and set adrift without that sense of central authority to guide us, a lot of people exhibit what I would call an almost resentful anxiety. If none of it is definitely true, then what is even the point of any of it? If you can't know for sure which story is the most real, then all of it must be meaningless!

And yeah. It's easy to feel that way. We live in the Age of Canon, the era of the cinematic universe and the franchise, the epoch of copyright. But that is only one way to understand stories and narrative.

If you listen to the stories of the old gods, whether out of the Eddas or re-told in pop culture, and you take some of that with you, and you pass the good bits on to someone else, then you are participating in the oldest and most sacred tradition of Norse mythology. These stories do not belong to any one author (especially not the goddamn Mouse!) or even to any one people. They were telling stories of Thor along the rivers of Russia a thousand years ago, Viking sailors scratched their names in runes in the Hagia Sophia, Islamic artifacts have been found in Viking burials. Those who look at the tradition of my ancestors and feel compelled to do enclosure around them are fools and charlatans, fearful and small-minded.

Our stories are monopolized these days by capital. Canon to them is a tool of enclosure, a way to shut people out of participating in the modern mythology they are trying to build, except with their permission and profit in mind. But there is another way.

Listen to the stories and pass them on. The story you believe in won't be the one everyone likes, and the version you tell won't be the same version someone else passes on from you. But every telling takes the soul of the teller with it, and the stories we weave together in communal tradition become a picture of every storyteller who has contributed to them. And you spite the fucking Mouse.

#tb essay #god of war #gow ragnarok #norse mythology #norse gods #history #prose edda #poetic edda #loki #thor #odin #angrboða

[moodymelanist]

meet me at the altar (in your white dress)

happy day 3 of @sjmromanceweek everyone! of course I had to get some Nessian in here, you know me!! title from Let's Get Married by Jagged Edge (the remix is much better than the original IMO)

Summary: Nesta and Cassian elope to help take the edge off planning their big, official wedding.

Word Count: 3k

Read on AO3 here!

Summary: Nesta and Cassian elope to help take the edge off planning their big, official wedding. 

♡♡♡♡♡ Nesta

Nesta held in another scream as she clicked through yet another florist’s website, holding back the urge to start banging her head back against the wall. All she’d wanted was to come home from a long day at the office and relax, but instead of being able to destress with a book on her Kindle, she’d ended up dealing with more wedding stuff.

“You really should consider going with more hydrangeas,” her mother was saying. Rhea had called Nesta and essentially ambushed her with more wedding planning; today’s topic of choice was the floral arrangements. “I mean, what even is a ranunculus?”

“They’re a classic wedding flower, Mom,” Nesta replied through gritted teeth. She and Cassian had gotten engaged right before Christmas, and they were in the full swing of things planning wise. No matter how many times she emphasized that this was their wedding, though, it hadn’t stopped Rhea from being her usual, controlling self. “They look like peonies.”

Cassian appeared at the edge of her vision, his face twisted up adorably in sympathy as he came into their bedroom. He’d been as hands on as he could with wedding planning, but there was only so much he could do with Rhea as his future mother-in-law.

Cassian waved to get Nesta’s attention and once she looked over at him, he mouthed, You want me to give you an out?

Yes please, Nesta mouthed back. God, she loved him so much.

Nesta watched from her position on the bed as Cassian came around the corner of the mattress and reached for her nightstand, opening and shutting the drawer loud enough for Rhea to hear it on the phone. To the untrained ear, it sounded similar enough to a door opening and closing, and it was the perfect excuse to get off the phone and take her Friday night back.

“Sorry, Mom,” Nesta said immediately, cutting off whatever tangent Rhea was going on now about the flowers she’d had at her wedding. “Cassian just got home from work. I have to go.”

Rhea was silent for a few seconds. “Fine. I’ll speak to you about this later.”

“Okay. Have a good night,” Nesta replied. Rhea echoed the sentiment, and Nesta immediately tossed her phone away from her. “Holy shit, she drives me crazy.”

“Watching you deal with her is driving me crazy, Nes,” Cassian said. He leaned down to where she was reclining against the headboard and pressed several hello kisses into her lips. “What if we just got married tomorrow or something?”

“What?” Nesta said back, not quite sure she was hearing him correctly. She pulled back to look up at him, but he looked like he was being completely serious, which could not be a possibility right now.

“I said,” Cassian replied, speaking slowly to make sure she caught every word, “what if we just… got married tomorrow?”

She stared at him for several seconds without blinking. “You’re joking, right?”

“No jokes here, sweetheart,” he answered. He stood up to his full height before walking to the edge of the bed and sitting down, resting one of his warm hands on her ankle. “I feel like it would help.”

“How would throwing away months of planning help?” she responded, doing her best to stop her eye from twitching. Once they’d settled on a venue and secured their date, it had been divide and conquer between reaching out to caterers, bakers, florists, makeup and hair stylists, tailors – you name it, they’d talked to someone about pricing and dates and menu options and color schemes. 

“We wouldn’t be throwing away months of planning,” he told her. “I can be an idiot sometimes, but not that big of an idiot.”

“...Okay.” Nesta closed her laptop and gave him her full attention, hoping that he’d eventually tell her something that made sense instead of just confusing her further. “Explain what you mean then, because I don’t think I’m following you.”

“Just hear me out, okay?” Cassian asked. Once Nesta nodded her assent, he started rubbing gentle circles into the delicate skin of her ankle. “Maybe this is dumb, but I was just thinking… maybe it could help take the edge off things. I know your family is breathing down your neck about this being perfect, and I know how stressful this whole thing has been for you. It doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to be us.”

God, he was good at this. He always knew exactly what to say to cut her to the core in the best way, and his words combined with the way those hazel eyes were trained on her made her want to give in immediately. Even though they would be surrounded by loved ones when they got married, something in her had always cringed at the fact that they’d be putting their relationship on display for everyone to see. She loved Cassian, she did, but the idea of having a wedding as big as theirs was shaping up to be felt almost performative. 

If they did what he was suggesting, there wouldn’t be anything performative about it. It would be something for just them; they wouldn’t have to go through any of the hoops that their huge, ornate ceremony was shaping up to entail. Just her, Cassian, and whoever they needed to talk to for it to be official.

“Yeah,” Nesta eventually answered, suddenly fighting back tears at how well he knew her. Even after all these years with him, he still managed to catch her off guard with how thoughtful he was. “

“Yeah?” Cassian echoed. He started to smile and it was the most beautiful thing she’d ever seen. “Let’s do it.”

♡♡♡♡♡

Surprisingly, it didn’t take long to sort everything out. Cassian booked a hotel for the weekend in Atlantic City while Nesta dug around for a white dress in her closet, and by the time she’d found a suitable enough option, he’d also started the process to get a marriage license.

“It doesn’t take that long to get a New Jersey marriage license,” he told her as they packed their bags for the weekend. “I mean, we’ll still have to sort out the paperwork for when we get married again, but that’s a problem for future us.”

“Okay,” she replied, feeling much lighter now that the pressure for their huge ceremony was suddenly off her shoulders. “We’ll figure it out then.”

It didn’t take them much longer to finish packing, and before Nesta knew it, they were in the car and on their way to Atlantic City. It wasn’t far – roughly two and a half hours – but they stopped for dinner along the way, so they made their way into the hotel lobby about three hours later. The air conditioning was going strong, and Nesta didn’t hesitate before leaning against Cassian’s warm side while they checked into their room.

“You want my jacket?” Cassian asked once they were all squared away and heading to the elevators.

“No, I’m okay,” Nesta answered, leaning into him again while they waited for the elevator to come to the lobby. Besides, he was holding both of their bags; she wasn’t going to make him essentially play Tetris with them to get the damn thing off. “We can just turn the AC down when we get upstairs.”

Their hotel room had all the usual accommodations, including a king-sized bed, and they both showered and changed into pajamas before getting into it. Cassian made sure their room was locked up tight and the AC wasn’t blasting before they got into bed, but even though it wasn’t as cold in the room anymore that didn’t stop Nesta from cuddling up to her fiancé.

“Thanks for going along with my crazy idea, Nes,” Cassian said into the quiet darkness of their room.

“It wasn’t that crazy once you explained it,” Nesta replied softly, reaching up and pressing a kiss to the underside of his jaw. “But you’re welcome.”

He just laughed softly, the sound of it vibrating gently against her cheek where she was laying on him. “Love you.”

“Love you too, baby. See you in the morning.”

♡♡♡♡♡

Nesta woke up the next morning wrapped around one of the hotel pillows instead of around her husband-to-be. She experienced a brief moment of panic once she realized she was alone in the room, but it quickly dissipated once she recognized Cassian’s familiar handwriting on one of the hotel’s notepads. She reached for it where he’d left it on the end table and quickly scanned the note he’d left her.

Hey sweetheart, he’d written. Don’t freak out, but it’s bad luck to see the bride on her wedding day, and I’m all about avoiding bad luck. Everything else is getting taken care of (I promise!!) so you just have to bring your gorgeous self to the altar. 

Love you

xoxo,

Cassian (aka your future husband)

Nesta laughed softly to herself as she set the note aside, her heart rate immediately slowing down after she’d read it through a few times. Cassian knew how tired she was of making so many wedding-related decisions and it was such a relief to not have to make any more — for the moment, anywhere. Even if they weren’t doing things the ‘right’ way, he was still looking out for all the little details, and it was stuff like that that made her want to fall in love with him all over again. 

Lucky for her, she’d get to fall in love with him every day for the rest of their lives. 

Nesta let herself lounge in bed for a few more minutes until she couldn’t wait any longer. She took her time getting ready, the hot water from the surprisingly strong shower head waking her all the way up, and she was thankful she’d packed her good blow dryer after she realized the hotel one wasn’t up for the task. Cassian had always loved her hair down, so she carefully smoothed half of it up and left the other half down. 

By the time she finished with her makeup and got dressed, it was almost time to go. She put on her wedges and threw the essentials — lip gloss, powder, room key, phone — into her purse before heading downstairs. She’d missed breakfast, but she managed to snag some Pop Tarts from the convenience store while she waited for her Uber. 

It was a quick ride to the hotel where they were getting married, and Nesta just followed the signs for the wedding area until she found a woman holding a sign with her name on it. She was tall, with dark hair and light brown skin that looked amazing even under the strange hotel lighting.

“Hi,” Nesta said, walking right up to her. “I’m Nesta.”

The woman perked up immediately. “Great! I’m Deirdre, I’ll be officiating the wedding. Cassian handled pretty much everything he could without you, so all you have to do is follow me.”

“Great,” Nesta replied. Her love for Cassian grew even more once she heard she’d hardly have to do anything. “Lead the way.”

Deirdre and Nesta wound their way through the halls, making small talk until they ended up in one of the back rooms. Nesta picked out a small bouquet of lilies, a short veil to wear as she walked down the aisle, and signed some forms. 

“You’re all set,” Deirdre told her once the last thing was signed. “Cassian said he had the rings, so really you just have to get your beautiful self out there and we can get this show on the road.”

“Okay,” Nesta agreed. She wondered if Cassian was using their actual wedding rings, or if he’d found a less expensive replacement for today. Oh well — she didn’t need to worry about it right now, and wasn’t that a relief. “I’m ready.”

Deirdre clapped her hands together and led Nesta through a different path through the halls, the two of them coming to a stop in front of what looked like a chapel. “I’ll go in first, make sure everything’s ready, and then once the music starts you can come in whenever you want. Okay?”

“Sounds good,” Nesta told her, and then she was alone. 

Nesta took a few deep breaths while she waited for Deirdre’s signal. Maybe if it had been anyone else, she might have been more nervous, but it was Cassian waiting for her. How could she feel anything but excited when they were only a few minutes away from forever?

The music started earlier than Nesta had been expecting, but she took it in stride. She squared her shoulders and walked through the door with her head held high, something inside her settling the second she laid eyes on Cassian. He looked handsome as always, dressed in a white button-up shirt and his nicest pair of jeans, and she could tell he was already crying even from across the room. 

There were a few people seated amongst the pews to serve as witnesses, but Nesta tuned out everyone that wasn’t Cassian. The walk down the aisle was simultaneously too long and too short, and suddenly she was handing over her bouquet so she could grip Cassian’s hands in hers. “Hi.”

“Hey, sweetheart,” Cassian said, his eyes a little wide. “You look so beautiful.”

“You’re not so bad yourself,” Nesta said back. She squeezed his hands to help steady them both before turning to Deirdre with an expectant look. “We’re ready.”

Deidre must have gone through all the usual wedding talk, but all Nesta heard was that she and Cassian were promising themselves to one another. Good days and bad, they’d show up for each other no matter what, no matter what kind of fancy ways people wanted to describe it. 

Before Nesta knew it, it was time for the vows. Deirdre turned to her expectantly, and she nodded before she took a deep breath. 

“Cassian,” Nesta started, her eyes tearing up at the force of what she felt for him. They’d both promised to not prepare anything — something about it coming from the heart — and part of her wished she had, just for the sheer difficulty of describing what he meant to her. “You’re the love of my life. My best friend in the entire world. You know me better than anyone else, and I’m so — I’m so thankful to have you. You make me so happy even when you’re being a bastard and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

She took another deep breath to steady herself, shooting Cassian a watery smile as he reached up to wipe some of her tears. “You’re the one I want to laugh with and argue with and spend all my time with until we’re old and gray. I promise to choose you every day, no matter what. I love the life we’ve made so much, and I promise to fight for us for the rest of our lives. I love you, Cassian. So much.”

“Jesus, how am I supposed to follow that up,” Cassian muttered to himself. 

Nesta laughed. “I’m sure you’ll find a way.”

“Thanks for the vote of confidence, Nes.” He took a deep breath of his own and met her eyes again. “Nesta, I knew from the minute I met you that you were special. Maybe it’s cheesy, but from that very first glare, I knew I’d be chasing after your attention for the rest of our lives. I’ve never been so happy to be right.”

“You’re the first thing I think about when I wake up and the last thing I think about when I go to bed. You’ve made my life better in so many ways, and I’ll never stop thanking the universe for putting us in each other’s lives. You’re an amazing woman and the fact that you chose me — well. I’ll never take that for granted. It physically hurts me when we’re apart, so the fact that you’re agreeing to be tied to me forever makes me feel pretty damn good. I promise to choose you every single day, to always respect you and cherish you and all the other things that you deserve. I love you so, so much, Nesta. You’re my world.”

They were both crying now, and Nesta squeezed Cassian’s hands so hard it was a miracle he didn’t lose circulation. She swore she could feel the thread that connected them wrap around them even tighter; there was no telling where one of them began and the other one ended. It was just them, and it was beautiful.

“Those were wonderful,” Deirdre told them. “Now, the rings.”

It seemed Cassian had brought out their wedding bands early after all. Both of their hands were shaking as they exchanged rings, but they managed to get through it without dropping anything or putting their rings on the wrong fingers. 

“With that…” Deirdre took a deep breath and beamed at them. “You may now kiss the bride.”

Cassian didn’t need to be told twice. Nesta barely had any warning before he was grabbing her and dipping her, but he was so strong that she didn’t think he’d drop her for a second. She just threw her arms around his neck and kissed him, clutching him to her as tightly as she could and not planning on letting go for a good long while.

“I now pronounce you husband and wife,” Deirdre said, smiling brightly. “Congratulations!”

“Thanks,” Cassian said with a wide grin once he’d brought Nesta back up. He was so beautiful when he was happy, and part of her still couldn’t believe she was the one to consistently put that smile on his face. “Hey, wife.”

“Hey, husband,” Nesta said back, smiling just as widely as he was. “You ready to get out of here?”

“Like you even have to ask,” he told her. He offered his hand and she took it without hesitation, squeezing tightly as they made their way back down the aisle.

tag list: @perseusannabeth | @bookstantrash | @charming-butt-insane | @oversizedbats | @melphss | @sv0430 | @podemechamardek | @autumnbabylon | @live-the-fangirl-life | @julemmaes | @that-little-red-head | @jmoonjones | @sayosdreams | @thewayshedreamed | @hiimheresworld | @brieq | @pearlfortears | @swankii-art-teacher | @nerdperson524 | @snickerdoodlechittybangbang | @imsointobooks | @nesquik-arccheron | @sweet-pea1 | @champanheandluxxury | @dustjacketmusings | @mrs-shadowsinger04 | @unlikelypersonalknight1 | @goddess-aelin | @arinbelle | @talkfantasytome | @simpingfornestaarcheron | @duskandstarlight | @letstakethedawn | @vidalinav | @c-e-d-dreamer | @dealfea | @katekatpattywack | @burningsnowleopard | @thatsowlmazing | @avidromancereader | @a-little-disguised | @kale-theteaqueen | @talibunny30

#sjmromanceweek2024 #acotar #acosf #nessian #nesta archeron #cassian #cassian acotar #nesta x cassian #cassian x nesta #pro nessian #pro nesta archeron #pro cassian acotar #moodymelanistwrites

[syddsatyrn]

Chapter 1 ⛤ Chapter 2 ⛤ Chapter 3 ⛤ Chapter 4 ⛤ Chapter 5 Masterlist

⛤Pairing: - Eddie Munson x FemReader

⛤Warnings: Swearing, drinking / smoking, fluff, friends to lovers. This is probably gonna end in smut.

⛤Words: 1.4k

⛤Song: "Photograph" By Def Leppard

⛤Summary: Moving away from Hawkins was the biggest mistake of your life. You left your best friends and forgot to stay in touch. Years later, you decide to hit up your good friend Steve. Its time to make a plan and make amends. The one thing you didn't expect was feelings to resurface when you saw your old highschool crush.

⛤Notes: This series is 18+ Minors scram. Special thanks to @hellfiremunsonn, I am a wreck without her, lol. This chapter is a little short. We are doing a slow burn, ladies , gentleman and nonbinary friends. Next Chapter will have Eddie in it I promise! Please check out Chapter one before you start this one. Thank you!

⛤Chapter 2: Pulling Strings You walk into work early and meet up with your manager. You explain that you need a week off to visit family in Hawkins. They calculate your vacation time and approve it, it's official! In two weeks you're going back to your childhood hometown. You asked a couple of coworkers to help cover your shift and got lucky, they both agreed they could use the extra hours. It was the longest two weeks that you've ever experienced. You passed the time with some shopping for your trip. You made sure to get all the essentials, and a couple of new cute outfits to bring too. You visited your mom and told her all about your plans, she's excited for you! She even sent you off with a little extra money, just in case.

Everything appears to be falling into place. The anticipation is killing you. But you start to find yourself thinking about Eddie quite often. You thought about his dark brown eyes, and how shockingly cute he was when he smiled. Back when things got difficult with your family, Eddie was always down for some late-night talks, listening to you vent for hours sometimes.

The night before you left, you spent time packing, calling Steve, and confirming some minor details. You took a shower before bed and watched some late night TV. When you finally decide to turn in, you crawl under the comforter and try your best to get some rest. Even if you still feel a huge pit in your stomach.

—--------------

You're beginning to think you should have packed lighter as you hauled your bags down to the car. You load everything into the trunk and settle into the driver's seat. You take a deep breath and start the car, the engine roars and you hit the gas. There's no next time, it's now or never. Time to take a leap of faith and do your best to be a better friend. You might not get another chance. The sun shines through your windshield as you turn the bend, the fresh Indiana air is crisp and clean. As you see the “Welcome to Hawkins” sign, your body starts to tense up. You try to recall the directions Steve gave you in the correct order. You turned onto main street and kept on until you saw the blue apartments named “Hawkin’s Heights”. You pulled into the parking lot and backed into a parking space carefully and cut the engine. 

It took you what felt like forever to get out of the car. But after a few deep breaths and some time to mentally hype yourself up, you are ready. You walk upstairs and follow the numbers until you find apartment 106. You knock on the door and it instantly opens.

“Y/N! I’m so glad you made it!” Steve looks completely thrilled to see you. He scoops you up into a hug and pulls you inside the apartment, shutting the door behind you.

“Hi Stevie” You laughed “It’s so nice to see you!” Steve finally lets go and you recognize the other familiar face in the room. It was none other than Dustin Henderson.

“Oh my god, Dustin?! You’re like…all grown up!” You can't believe how mature he looks now. You give him a massive hug, he's taller than you now. Time sure does fly, kids sure do grow up fast. The boys head downstairs to help you lug your bags inside, thank goodness you didn't have to do that alone.

Once you get inside you notice the boys are taking your stuff down the hall, and you follow them. Once you walk through the threshold you immediately know whose room this is.

“You’ll be staying in Eddie's room. He comes back from tour in two days so you’ll see him then. I’m sure he won’t mind at all.” Steve explains so casually like it's no big deal.

“Oh god, I couldn’t just take his room. I would feel so bad. What if I take the couch?” You ask with a nervous laugh.

“Can’t, Dustin is on the couch. His mom went on this singles cruise. Even now I’m still somehow babysitting.” Steve laughs and Dustin scoffs at him. Your face turns a little red at the thought of sleeping in your high school crush’s bed.

“Don't listen to him, Y/N, my mom is just paranoid.” Dustin retorts as he follows Steve to the kitchen.

They both leave you to order some pizza and give you time to settle in. The room is truthfully very clean, there are Metal posters all over the walls, along with flyers from shows he’s played. He has some Christmas lights hanging for some ambiance. You take a seat on his queen-sized bed, it feels really comfy. The back comforter and black pillow cases were so him. There are guitars hanging on the wall, a couple of guitar stands, and amps off to the side.

I guess it can't be helped. You'll have to deal with it for now, maybe you can crash at Robin’s later. You shut the door and find yourself some lounge clothes to wear, settling on a pair of shorts and a large Metallica t-shirt. After brushing out your hair and setting out some clothes for tomorrow, you decide to join the boys in the kitchen.

“We got two large pepperoni pizzas,” Dustin announces, Steve opens two beers and offers you one. You gladly take it and grin as you see the label.

“Did you buy my favorite beer on purpose?” You ask, poking fun at how much of an accommodating host Steve can be. When the pizza arrives you all settle down in the living room and watch some late-night sitcom. Steve tells you all about the lengths he's gone to get everyone to gather here.

Nancy is coming to visit with Johnathan, they are staying with her parents. Robin has no idea you were here, Steve had to come up with some ridiculous excuse for her not to show up today. Eddie called to tell him when he would be returning in a couple of days and Steve had to play it cool like nothing was going on. He told them we were throwing a get-together at the Hideout but didn't mention you in the slightest.

“Wow…Look at you pulling all the strings.” You clapped softly and Steve took a little bow. You were truly impressed with his ability to put all of this together. “Thank you, Steve. This is so cool of you.”

“It was nothin’ really. You called and I had to make it happen.” He shrugs with a half smile. You hug your friend and decide to excuse yourself. You had a long drive and it was exhausting. You walk back to Eddie’s room to turn in for the night. When you look over at the nightstand you see a pack of cigarettes, half empty. Eddie used to bum you cigs when you hung out at his trailer. You flash back to the time your Dad was drunk and acting out, arguing with your mom. You ran off to Eddie’s place and your mom almost called the cops.

You grabbed one out of the pack and used the lighter next to the ashtray. You opened up a window and placed the cigarette between your lips and lit it. The taste was like shaking hands with an old friend. It was smooth and you almost feel bad for breaking your 3 year streak but also, one won't hurt…probably. That same nostalgic feeling you felt opening those boxes came flooding back in.

We were just teenagers, there were so many signs that he was head over heels for you but you were naive, oblivious, and it hurt you a little. Neither of you had the guts to say anything to each other. A regret that made you feel shameful to say the least. You’ve wondered if he still has feelings for you or is he off having the time of his life with his groupie fangirls?

When you try to define this feeling it's next to impossible, you feel a sense of anticipation. It's like you’re eager to relive some feelings, or longing for a simpler time. You take a few drags and try to wave the smoke and your insecurities out the window. You can't wait to see Robin tomorrow. It's time to get some sleep, you have a feeling you won't be getting much for the rest of the week.

You put out your cigarette and shut the window, turn out the light, and finally crawl under the covers. You have to admit, his bed smells really good, like fresh linen and men's cologne. It made you feel especially comfortable, and it didn't take long to ease into a deep slumber. You could get used to this kind of contentment. 

#eddie munson #eddie fanfic #eddie munson x reader #eddie x reader #eddie the freak munson #eddie munson x you #eddie munson fanfic #eddie munson x fem reader #syddsatyrn #syddwritesstuff #eddie munson stranger things #eddie munson fic #eddie munson x female reader #eddie munson x y/n #eddie munson x reader smut #eddie x you #eddie x y/n #eddie stranger things #stranger things eddie #eddie fic #eddie fluff #eddie munson fluff #eddie munson series #eddie munson x reader fluff #reader x eddie munson #stranger things eddie munson #rockstar eddie munson

[canonmisogynyvictimstournament]

Now that submissions are closed, we can talk stats. There were 881 valid, unique submissions for 474 characters! Woof, women have it rough out there!

The most submitted characters, with a relevant propaganda snippet included, are:

1. Sakura Haruno (Naruto): 28 [where do i even fucking begin]

2. Cordelia Chase (Buffy the Vampire Slayer/Angel): 21 [OH SO MANY THINGS]

3. Misa Amane (Death Note): 20 [The author of Death Note invented new forms of misogyny just to apply them to Misa.]

4. Kaede Akamatsu (Danganronpa V3): 15 [Oh, you thought we would have a female main character in one of our mainline games? With a cool defining talent, no less? That's stupid of you]

5. TIE: Kairi (Kingdom Hearts): 14 [I'm so mad. I think she deserves a gun.]

5. TIE: Stephanie Brown (DC Comics): 14 [She does eventually get retconned as surviving the event and hiding out in Africa (don't ask, it does not make more sense in context)]

The canons with the most submissions, with a relevant propaganda snippet included, are:

1. DC Comics: 61 [DC has SO MUCH sexism it's laughable]

2. Buffy the Vampire Slayer/Angel: 35 [Fuck Joss Whedon, man.]

3. Naruto: 33 [because Kishimoto hates women]

4. Warrior Cats: 26 [Warriors is one of the most misogynistic children's series I've ever seen]

5. Danganronpa: 25 [I honestly had to think about it just to decide which woman is treated the worst because this series hates them so much]

The canons with the most characters submitted, with a relevant propaganda snippet for a specific character included, are:

1. DC Comics: 21 [Free her from the huge tits back breaking pose.]

2. Buffy the Vampire Slayer/Angel: 12 [Anyways she was so hot and for what. 10/10 my lesbian awakening.]

3. Supernatural: 11 [Yeah, she got randomly killed off-screen for shock value and manpain, but she sent an email right before she died so at least her death wasn't in vain, right?]

4. TIE: Star Trek: 9 [She literally gets teleported out of her clothes in one episode.]

4. TIE: Yu-Gi-Oh!: 9 [One loss is particularly brutal as she falls from a large height directly onto her head and goes into a coma (again. yes this was the second time).]

5. TIE: Warrior Cats: 8 [I'm sure she'll get submitted again just ask any reasonable fan they'll tell you about her and her sister]

5. TIE: Attack on Titan: 8 [As a child soldier, she does commit some war crimes]

And here are some charts to show how some of these entries fucked the scale on my charts:

Look at Sakura, fucking up my chart with her numbers.

On a similar note...

Good god, DC, I know what you did, but add fucking up my charts to your list of crimes.

And now, enjoy some rankings of my favorite things:

My favorite universal sentiment quotes from propaganda are:

She lived she served cunt and then she got killed off super early so that the male characters could experience man pain and also because I guess she would have been too powerful if left alive. [Wen Qing (Mo Dao Zu Shi)]

That design. Dear god. I don't want to live on this planet anymore. [Mitzi (The Queen's Corgi)]

In the end she may have girlbossed too close to the sun, but I support her anger. [Ling Wen (Heaven Official's Blessing)]

the victim of “writer doesn’t understand women and also hates them” disease. [Naomi Misora (Death Note)]

She could 100% kill somebody but nobody ever effing lets her. Rip queen. [Kairi (Kingdom Hearts)]

My favorite raging at a writer quotes from propaganda are:

1. You took every single protagonist to weird lion heaven, Clive, but suddenly Susan isn't good enough. [Susan Pevensie (The Chronicles of Narnia)]

2. Being a woman written by Joss Whedon should automatically entitle her to financial compensation tbh. [River Tam (Firefly)]

3. A lot can be summed up in a couple words, namely, "Furman, why?" [Arcee (Transformers)]

4. Can you tell respect women juice ran in Tolstoy's veins. [Lise Bolkonskaya (War and Peace)]

5. TIE: (specifically a guy called Dan Didio, who we all hate) [Stephanie Brown (DC Comics)]

5. TIE: until Geoff motherfucking Johns comes into the picture [Pantha (DC Comics)]

My favorite quotes from propaganda that have nothing to do with misogyny, y'all are just funny:

I wish I could use bold here, because there's no such thing as uppercase numbers. [Arcee (Transformers)]

the most convoluted and lore dense piece of media this side of the afton criticality. [Jane Crocker (Homestuck)]

ended up starting a gang war by accident [Stephanie Brown (DC Comics)]

Ashfur, who later turns out to be a murderous incel [Squirrelflight (Warrior Cats)]

Hawkfrost is actively seeing Brambleclaw and his evil father in cat hell. [Squirrelflight (Warrior Cats)]

#not polls #stats

[tgmsunmontue]

You need to learn how to fall 1/10

Hangster (and IceMav) - Bradley is too tall to be a naval aviator and instead becomes a sky diver, specialising in spin recovery. He is a civilian contractor to the Airforce and Navy to teach pilots how to survive parachute spins from ejections. A more in-depth version of this.

PROLOGUE

1998

                “Okay buddy, fifteenth birthday! Stand up against the wall. Got to measure you for prosperity!”

                “Can you reach above my head still Mav?”

                “Excuse you! Uh… actually. Ice? You want to… um, do the mark?”

                Tom steps up and he smiles softly at Bradley, sharing the shared smile of being used to humoring Maverick. Bradley is tall, taller than his father by several inches and Tom wonders if he knows.

                “You’re six foot and three inches.”

                “Fuck.”

                “Language,” Tom murmurs quietly, but he’s guessing Bradley does indeed know the height restrictions for naval aviators. Not that it would stop him joining the Navy, but it would stop him from flying. The rate he’s going he’s going to be taller than Tom, is already taller than Mav by several inches.

1999

                “We’re not going to have to tell him no,” Mav says. The ink from the biro marking six foot and six inches would still smudge if they touched it.

                “No, we won’t. You need to reign in your happiness about him not being able to apply though.”

                “At least he knows now, won’t even apply for that programme…”

                “Who knows, not us. And probably not Bradley. He’s just turned sixteen. Let him figure out his own path…”

                “Stay?”

                “You know I can’t…”

                “Can’t or won’t?”

                “Don’t start Mav.”

                “Sure. Okay.”

                “I’ll see you later.”

                “Sure.”

2000

                “How many applications have you made?”

                “Meh, about five. All within state except one. I don’t want to be too far away.”

                “Planes exist you know. What are you thinking?”

                “Something in the sciences. It’s easy.”

                “Okay, you let us know if there’s something you’re interested in though okay?”

                “Sure thing Ice.”

2001

                “You got me a skydive?”

                “Yeah. I thought we could go and do it together!”

                “Oh my god this is so cool! Thanks Mav!”

                “Well, you only turn eighteen once!”

                A few weeks later, standing out on the airstrip Tom looks at the clear blue sky. It is a beautiful day for flying. Flying. Jumping out of planes is another matter.

                “Can I just state for the record that I think this is a bad idea?” Tom asks, peering at the small plane through his aviators. The pilot and jumpers are doing a whole bunch of safety checks and part of him itches to go over and double check everything.

                “Is it so you can tell me you told me so later?”

                “Yes.”

                “Sure. You know it never stops me.”

                “Unfortunately. I’ll see you when you’re finished I guess.”

                He’s officially given up smoking, but he still finds himself sucking at a cigarette, nervous beyond belief that something is going to go wrong.

                Nothing does though, and they land not very far away, driven to where Tom is waiting by the chase vehicle.

                “Fucking hell… that was…” Mav is pale, eye wide and ringed with white.

                “AMAZING! Oh my god, I want to do it again! Can I do it again? Man what a rush!”

                Tom watches Bradley go and talk to the two jumpers and gets a sense of unease. Moves closer to Mav who isn’t shaking but also doesn’t look happy.

                “That was the worst experience of my life. Why would anyone jump out of a perfectly functioning plane?”

                “Was your dumb idea.”

                He isn’t surprised that night when his phone rings in the early hours and he can hear stuttered breathing over the line.

                “Mav? That you?”

                “Yeah. Sorry.”

                “Nightmare?”

                “Yeah.”

                “Goose?”

                “Ha! No… God. I wish. No. Bradley. Him dying. What have I done?”

                Ice lets out a long breath into the silence and lies back in his bed, wishes he could reach out through the phone line and hold Mav close to him.

                “You’ve raised a happy, confident young man. Against all odds, he’s well adjusted.”

                “I think you can take most of the credit for that.”

                “And you need to take credit for his love of sky diving… it’s okay Mav. There are so many safety precautions. You don’t think I looked into it before I let you two go up?”

                “Yeah?’

                “Yeah. We can’t protect him from everything. We’ll deal with it the best we can.”

2002

                “I thought you were doing something chemistry related?” Mav says, looking at the text books Bradley has just dumped on the table. Tom is ordering pizza, only half-listening to the conversation.

                “I was, but I looked into some stuff and I’m going to do physics and human performance science. Maybe some business papers as well.”

                “What are you going to use that for?”

                “Skydiving!” Bradley says, expression clearly informing Mav he thinks he’s an idiot for needing to ask.

                “Uh…”

                “I’m going to become a Skydiving instructor. I need to get my A and B licenses, then an additional hundred jumps. Then I can start coaching alongside other instructors. I need to do another two hundred jumps then, and there’s a list of requirements. There are things like accelerated free fall which looks so cool. Then I have to do a course… I figure I can become a tandem instructor by the time I finish my degree.”

                Tom meets Mav’s eyes across the table and they both keep their mouths shut. He knows he’s not the only one hoping that it’s only a passing phase.

                It doesn’t pass.

2003-2006 - The early years

#IceMav #Top Gun fanfic #Hangster #you need to learn how to fall

[babydollmarauders]

HARD LAUNCH — JOHN MARINO

part of the Maraschino Cherry! au

john.marino97

liked by dawson1417, nicohischier, and 5,953 others

john.marino97 so there’s this short girl and she keeps following me around… i think i might keep her

tagged y/nmercer

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dawson1417 you guys are disgustingly cute

dawson1417 but i laughed seeing you cut her out of the first picture. never stop teasing her, she deserves it

y/nmercer @/dawson1417 you’re an asshole and i’m gonna make you suffer by making out with him in front of you for the rest of our lives

y/nmercer I’M AVERAGE HEIGHT!

john.marino97 don’t worry. i like your height, shortcake

y/nmercer did you take a picture of me working?

john.marino97 i’ve taken a lot of pictures of you working. you just haven’t seen me because i’m stealthy, like a ninja

y/nmercer no one YOUR height can be THAT stealthy, baby

user62 OH MY GOD HE MADE IT INSTA OFFICIAL 😭

user97 it’s over ladies- we have no chance now 🥲

jackhughes finally! took you a while to show your woman some insta love, eh?

john.marino97 i can make you lose another tooth

jackhughes @/y/nmercer do you see your boyfriend flirting with me right now? come collect him

y/nmercer how did you get flirting from that?

jackhughes @/y/nmercer that’s how you two flirted, was it not?

nicohischier happy for you guys ❤️

user22 they’re so cute 😭 my turn, when?!

naterbastian at least i knew this time around

john.marino97 it’s not our fault that you don’t pay attention to the groupchat

y/nmercer yeah, you missed Dawson’s frantic texts when he found us cuddled on the couch. it was pretty funny

dawson1417 @/y/nmercer you come off as sweet, but you’re pretty evil, you know that?

y/nmercer @/dawson1417 aww you think i’m sweet and pretty 🥰

user85 HE’S DATING DAWSON’S SISTER?! oh that’s so cute

user27 i thought they hated each other ngl

#maraschino cherry! au #john marino x reader #john marino #john marino imagine #john marino fic #john marino blurb #nj devils #nhl blurb #nhl imagine #nhl fic #faithlynn’s writings <3 #faithlynn’s insta edits <3

[kimaixun]

[Curse of Bad Lucks] - [SKZ!Felix X M!Reader]

"You were a wonderful experience."

"You were everything."

M/N could only smile bitterly as he turn on his heel, walking away from none other than, Lee YongBok, Felix, who is now, officially, his once upon a time the love of his life. It was finally done. He had finally ended it. It hurts. He could literally feel everything shattering apart. M/N sucked in a deep breath, painfully, as he sat on the bench, looking towards the well lit panaromic view of Jeju.

Felix was just a wonderful experience.

Meanwhile, Felix fell on his knees as he watches M/N walk away from him. M/N had ended things with him and he knew he was in disbelieve. 18 years, 18 fucking years that they had been together, gone, just like that. They were married for god sake and they have a child. A 4 years old little boy that they raised together. How could M/N do this to him? Where had it gone wrong?

M/N was everything.

18 years ago.....

"See that barista? He is hot." Lee YongBok whispered to his close friend, Hwang Hyunjin.

Hwang Hyunjin peeks over his shoulder seeing the (H/C) tall lad. He looked young and Felix was right, he is hot, "he is good looking."

"I'm going to hit on him." Felix made his way to the counter, stopping in front of the (H/C). "Hi!"

"Hi," Felix could feel his breath hitched when M/N looked up and his (E/C) looked into his. M/N is gorgeous, "i...let...let me get my colleague. My korean is still not good."

"Oh no, it's fine. I'm australian so, you can speak english to me."

M/N flashes him a gentle smile, "thank you. How can i help you for the day?"

Felix fished out his phone, "i want to bring you out on a date so, if i could, can i get your number?" He giggles when M/N's eyes widened, evidently taken aback by the sudden confession. "You are really cute and i could get myself a boyfriend anytime soon. Life doesn't seem to get any younger, you know."

"I...Wait...you..." M/N jumbled on his words, "why?"

"What?"

"Why me?" M/N abruptly stopped in the midst of cleaning the counter and walked in front of Felix. It was Felix turn to be taken aback at how different their height difference was. M/N was two feet taller than him. "Why me? I...I'm just a barista. I have sugar in my pockets and coffee stains on my socks. I am cursed with bad lucks. I am poor. I am stupid and worthless and i am very sure that i'll ruin your life. Like i said i'm cursed with bad lucks. I'm cursed so, if you are an angel in disguise, please, run for your life."

"You are so dark and twisty." Felix said, "What if i'm a devil in disguise? Do i still need to run for my life too?"

M/N chuckled, "usually, the conversation stops there and i have no replies for what you've just asked."

"Well since you dont know what would a devil in disguise do, why not give it a try first?" Felix convinced. "I'll bring you out on dates, we can get to know each other. It doesnt have to be expensive or anything. I'm not so high maintenance and it's very easy to make me happy. I appreciate the small little things. You can get me a cup of coffee and i will grin for the entire day, i will....."

"Okay." M/N cut him off, giving him a gentle smile, "My name is F/N M/N and can i make you a cup of coffee? It's on me."

"Okay M/N," Felix said, "My name is Lee YongBok, Felix and i would like to accept your coffee offer."

15 years ago.....

"So, want to tell me how you ended up all soaked and smelly?" Felix grimaced as he turns the water on to fill the tub.

"There was a cat." M/N simply replied as he stripped off his clothes, entering the tub and submerged himself into the water, "a black cat and i should have known better that black cats are almost like a combo to my cursed life."

Felix giggled as he massages M/N's hair with the lavender scented shampoo, "let me guess. You probably saved the cat from a drain and you slipped and fall into it."

"Has this hapened before?"

"Twice." Felix replied. "but, hey. On the bright side, you aren't hurt this time. You came home the last two times with broken arms and legs. This time, you're just, smelly."

M/N couldnt help but, grin so widely that his cheeks start to hurt, "i guess my dark and twisty life is coming to a turn with my very own sunshine by my side. I love you."

"I love you so much more." Felix smiles and pecks M/N on the lips.

10 years ago.....

"I DID IT! WE DID IT!" M/N couldn't contain his excitement as he barged into the house. Felix who was folding their clothes on the couch was taken aback when M/N lounge himself onto him, knocking them off the couch and down to the floor. "I can finally open my own cafe with my very own saving and it's just a block away from here!"

"OMG! LOVE! I am so proud of you!" Felix exclaimed. They were both on the floor, Felix on top of the younger who hugged him tightly as they laid on the ground. "I'm so fucking proud of you!"

Prior to where they were, 7 years ago, M/N had told his boyfriend his life plans and Felix supported him unconditionally. It had been rough for both of them. M/N was almost working 18 hours a day to earn the money he needed and Felix had to focus on the upcoming of Stray Kids. The amount they spent together could be easily counted by fingers. Within a month, they could only meet for a day where M/N finally took the day off and so did Felix. Despite that, they made it through each day for the entire 7 years, promising themselves that once they reached their goal, they will live a life that they desired.

"I'm so happy. Thank you, thank you, thank you Lee YongBok." M/N buried his face into Felix's neck.

Felix smiles and embrace the other tightly, "We did it love. I got something to tell you too. I will be leaving the music industry."

"Wait, what?! You love music, you love your fans, you love STRAY KIDS. Please, you don't have to do it for me." M/N jolted up.

"I do. I do love all of them but, i love you the most. I'm not doing this for you. I am doing this for me. It's time for me to slow down. I'm not getting any younger now and, i want to retire. I want to be the boyfriend who will sit in the cafe and stare at his boyfriend all day long and make sure no one is flirting with him," Felix chuckled, "I will be like those typical managers who pretend to be busy on their phones but in reality I'm just watching as the world goes by."

"Marry me, Lee Yongbok." M/N confessed. "I...I dont have a ring right now but, will you marry me? I will make you the happiest man alive. I will bring breakfast to our bed every morning. I will bring you out on dates. I will be the richest some day soon that we can stay home all day with each other in our cozy apartment. I will give you the..."

M/N was cut off when Felix slammed their lips together and as if the time froze, they kissed passionately not caring the world existed.

"Yes, Yes. I will marry you."

5 years ago.....

"Hi love."

"Sunshine, you're here!" M/N grinned as he puts down the cloth he used to wipe the counter, heading towards Felix with an open arm. Felix jumped into his husband's arms and greeted him with a kiss. "How did your day go?"

"Wonderful." Felix pecks his cheeks and they settled down at the corner of the cafe, reserved specially just for them, "I met Lee Know Hyung and Jisung Hyung. Their baby have grown so big. He's a big boy now. He can put his own pants and put his plate in the sink."

"Awww, that's great." M/N cooed. "So, while we are at the topic, i was wondering if you would want to have a baby with me."

Felix giggled, "oh love. I wish i could bear your children but, we aren't exactly living in a ABO universe."

"I mean with the amount of me breeding into you, we could've get 10 kids now." M/N winked.

"EWWWWW BOSS! The cafe isn't exactly empty!" yelled an employee of his.

"You're suppose to be working, not eavedropping." M/N laughed when he sees Felix red face. "Sunshine, i really mean what i said. We could get a surrogate or we coul--"

"Yes!" Felix answered, "Let's have a kid together."

"I love you." M/N kissed his husband.

"I love you so much more."

4 years ago.....

"Sunshine?" M/N whispered as he pokes his head into their bedroom.

"Hi love. Come in." Felix beckoned, "I just got him down."

M/N tiptoes across the room and slide under the covers beside Felix, "I am so sorry i had to ditch you halfway."

"Hey, don't be sorry love." Felix shifted as little as possible to face his husband, "we weren't expecting the cafe to catch on fire. How's the employees?"

"No one was injured, thankfully and they are doing an investigation on the cause of fire." M/N explained as he tugs his head onto his husband's chest, cuddling closely to inhale the oh-so-familiar calming scent of his husband.

"Thank goodness. How about you, love? Are you okay?"

M/N sighed inaudibly, "I....I'm scared. Sunshine, i'm terrified."

"Hey, you're okay. You're okay." Felix assures planting kisses to the crown of M/N's head as he caresses his hair tenderly. "You're okay love."

"It's just," M/N took a deep breath, "it's as if the curse of bad lucks are latching on me again and i'm so terrified that it'll hurt you and Woojin. I'll never forgive myself if any of you are hurt."

"Hey, don't be so dark and twisty." Felix chuckled, "i know love. I get where you are coming from but, let's not jump into conclusion okay? Maybe it was just a coincidence."

"I...I don't know." Felix could feel tears drenching his shirt.

"You're okay baby. You're okay." Felix shushes as he embrace his husband tighter. "We're here for you. Woojin and i will always be by your side no matter what curse you have, okay?"

"I love you." M/N sniffed.

"I love you so much more."

2 years ago.....

"F/N M/N. Which bed is he in?" Felix could feel the anxiety crept into him as he barge through the doors of the emergency department. Woojin who was cradled in his arms could sense his parent anxiousness and he squirms uncomfortably.

"I'm sorry and you are?" The nurse asked.

"F/N YongBok. I'm his husband. Please, tell me where he is." Felix pleaded.

"Oh, he's in bed 10 sir. Right this way." The nurse showed the way.

Felix couldn't help the tears streaming down his cheek as he rushed over to the said bed.

"Mama cry no." Little Woojin frowned, his lips jutting out. "Mama no cry."

"I'm sorry baby." Felix kissed his forehead. He knew he shouldn't be crying but, he couldn't help it. He needed to make sure M/N is fine first.

"Sunshine?"

It wasn't a lie when people said that legs can turn into jelly. If it wasn't the doctor who attended to M/N that catch him, he would've landed on the floor, probably hitting his head at the corner of the hospital bed.

"I'm okay sunshine. I'm okay. I promise." M/N repeated as he took Felix and Woojin into his arms. "I'm okay sunshine. I'm okay baby."

"Papa ouchie."

M/N chuckled as he took Woojin in his arms, "yes, papa ouchie. Small ouchie."

"Papa. Mama cry papa ouchie." Little Woojin pouted.

"I'm sorry. Papa no ouchie, mama no cry okay?" M/N assured as he slides his hand around Felix's waist. "Sunshine? I promise you, i'm okay."

"Seventh time. It's the seventh time you had to come to the ER this year. You end up with so many injuries all the time. You said you were just going to get cereal and i end up getting a call from the ER that you were hit with a baseball bat? I swear, i am going to lock you in our house and we will never leave the house ever again." Felix cried as he leaned onto his husband's shoulder, "i'm locking you up in the house."

"Okay sunshine. I'll be happily locked with you and Woojin."

"I love you."

"I love you so much more."

9 hour ago.....

"Have fun Mama! Papa!" Woojin waved at his parents before running back into his Uncle Lee Know and Uncle Jisung's hotel room to play with their son.

"Thank you for watching him." Felix said to the couple in front of them.

The two family were on their vacation in Jeju Island and since M/N and Felix had watched over MinSung yesterday whilst the parents were on their date, it was M/N and Felix's turn today.

"Oh, don't sweat about it. You guys have fun! Now, go. The night is still young." Jisung kicked them out.

M/N and Felix spent the rest of the day living their life like they were teenagers all over again. They went to the theme park followed by an ice cream stall and then a dinner reservation. They were just living their dream life fully.

"Sunshine?" M/N softly calls out as they walk through the quiet street of Jeju, hands intertwined, on their way back to their hotel.

"Yes, love?"

"If one day i am not around, can you promise me some things?"

Felix stopped on his track, "is that a way of you telling me that you are getting old?"

M/N chuckled, "maybe. I am being serious though. Can you please promise me some things?" Felix was not going to lie but, an uncomfortable churn in his stomach begin to arise.

"Yes love. Anything."

M/N took both of his hands in his reminding Felix of the time when they took their vow the exact same way right now or the night when M/N had proposed to him. M/N always held his hands when he needed to talk about important things taht could mean life or death.

"Sunshine, when i am gone, i want you to promise me that you will get over me within 7 days. I want you to promise me that you will forget about me thoroughly. I want you to move on with your life. I want you to inherit all my inheritance. I want you to raise Woojin with the strength of your sunshine heart. I want you to stay strong. I want you to make sure you and Woojin eat proper meals, always celebrate birthdays and occasions no matter how busy you are. I want Woojin to inherit my business. Woojin will grow up wonderfully. I want you to promise me to love yourself unconditionally. Please, promise me that." M/N took Felix's hand to his lips and tenderly kissed it. "I love you so much. I love you so fucking much."

"You.....you are scaring me. Is everything okay?"

"Sunshine, please. Promise me that." M/N pleaded.

"No, i can't suddenly promise you as if you will be gone in another 5 minutes. I can't just lie to myself to make a promise that i will get over you in 7 days. I spend half my life loving you and never regretted it ever in my life. You can't expect me to just forget you just like that! We are married and we have a kid!" Felix took a deep breath, calming himself down, "love, tell me, what's wrong?"

"I am divorcing you. I am done with you. The lawyers will send in the papers in a week and tonight will be last time you see me."

"But, why?"

Felix heartbreak is grief that comes in waves, gruelling. It is a shard in his guts that stabbed him over and over again. It feels like death just the same as bereavement and in that quiet second, it chokes the breath from his body and short circuitshis mind. What was once whole is shattered; where once was peace is emptiness, echoes of a love he put his everything into.

"You were a wonderful experience."

"You were everything."

Present.....

Ring....Ring....Ring

"I did everything you told me to." M/N spat into the answered phone.

"You did great honey."

"and as you promised, don't even lay a finger on them. if you hurt my sunshine and my child, I WILL KILL YOU, Hwang Hyunjin." M/N growled.

He could hear Hyunjin's sinister laugh in echoing through the phone, "i promised honey. I'm sending someone over to get you now. I'll see you in a couple of hours."

The call ended and M/N slams his phone to the ground, breaking it into pieces. AFterall, his life was still a curse of bad lucks. M/N couldn't help but cried his heart out, screaming in despair.

#malereader #kpop x male reader #stray kids x male reader #skz felix #skz lee yongbok #angst #stray kids #skz x reader #skz hyunjin #lee felix #stray kids felix #straykidsxmalereader

[hairstevington]

flowers and ink (part 2)

Eddie Munson x Steve Harrington

Summary: Eddie and Steve like each other, but unfortunately Eddie thinks Steve is dating Robin, and they're both generally just gay disasters who don't know how to communicate

(part one found here)

Word Count: 3K

Warnings: Tattoo Artist!Eddie, Florist!Steve, fluff, gay panic, Platonic Soulmates Steve and Robin, Will is here and we love him, everybody is a sweetheart and an idiot, it's just cute and funny

A/N: Ha ha, remember when I said this would be two parts? I'm having so much fun with it that I'm making it three parts. I hope you don't mind??? Also this story is officially cross posted on Ao3 for those interested!

“Steve, did you give Eddie a 50% tip?” Robin asked as they walked out of Ink About It.

“Well, I’ve never been that great at math,” Steve mumbled, blushing. 

“Uh-huh. I’m sure that’s the reason.”

“He did a great job?” Steve offered. He wasn’t even sure why he was denying the obvious. Robin knew Steve way too well to play these games. 

“You like Eddie,” she stated.

“I barely know him,” Steve shrugged.

“Yeah, but his work is permanently on your skin forever,” Robin pointed out. 

“Jesus, why did you have to say that?” Steve whined with a groan. “He’s hot, okay? Will you just leave it?”

He knew she wouldn’t leave it. It was kind of her specialty.

“It was just so cute seeing you be all flirty with him,” Robin said. 

“God, I hope it wasn’t that obvious.”

“Don’t worry, he was too focused on his work to notice,” she assured him. “Come on, we just did something big, let’s celebrate!”

So, they did.

The next time they worked together, the teasing was relentless. Steve couldn’t escape it due to the tattoo shop being right through the glass. He couldn’t help trying to see if Eddie was in there. 

“Oh my god, just go back there and talk to him,” Robin suggested.

“I can’t just go there, Robin,” Steve replied. “I’d have to, like, make another appointment or something.”

“You’re willing to get a new tattoo every time you see this guy, Dingus?” Steve chuckled.

“If I have to, sure.” Robin smacked him playfully on the arm. 

“You’re ridiculous.”

“Oh, and you’re any better?” Steve challenged. “Remind me again why you started working here.” Robin rolled her eyes. 

“Whatever, we’re both gay disasters,” she replied. “I still think you should go over there. I’ll cover for you.”

“Wait, you mean now?” Steve asked, confused. 

“Yeah,” Robin confirmed. “It’s been so slow I’m going crazy, Harrington. I need something to spice up the day, and this fits the bill.” She put her hands on his chest and pushed him backwards toward the front door. “Do it. Go.” Steve sighed.

“It’s a good thing I love you, Buckley.”

And with that, he was off to the tattoo parlor.

-

Bob took the morning off to take Will to brunch, leaving Eddie alone in the shop. He didn’t mind holding the fort, because he could plan breaks and moments to relax based on the appointments he had for the day. Tattoo shops were chill.

Most people generally knew not to walk into a tattoo place without notice. Appointments and communication beforehand were necessary so that the artist could design and adjust, plan their day, etc. 

Steve apparently didn’t have that memo. But when he sauntered into Ink About It, Eddie didn’t care about his lack of a heads up. 

He was wearing his work polo - light blue with the name of the flower shop over his heart. He looked a bit nervous, but Eddie figured that was because the man clearly did not fit into a place like this. 

“Back for more already?” Eddie teased. Steve blushed, and it was cute how nervous tattooing made him. He wondered if Steve regretted getting one in the first place. 

“I just have a question,” Steve said. He walked up to the counter and leaned his elbows on it, making the height difference between them drastic enough where Steve had to angle his chin up to make eye contact. 

“Shoot,” Eddie permitted. 

“Is the damn thing supposed to like - peel?” Steve asked. 

Eddie just about lost it. He never wanted to make someone feel bad for not knowing these things, but Steve was just so goddamn cute about it. He pressed his lips together as tightly as he could so he wouldn’t give himself away, then nodded. 

“Yup,” Eddie answered. “The first week or so you’ll see it flake off. Don’t pick at it or scrub it or anything.”

“Would it come off if I do?” Steve asked. 

Okay. Now the guy HAD to be fucking with him. Don’t laugh don’t laugh be professional do what Bob would do.

“I - uh, well no I’m afraid tattoos are permanent, Steve,” Eddie responded. Steve looked at him dumbly for a second, then shifted back up to standing and burst out laughing. 

Eddie watched, confused, until Steve spoke again. 

“I’m just fucking with you Eddie. I may not know a lot about tattoos, but I know they’re permanent, okay?” Eddie seeing Steve goof around like this was charming in a way Eddie hadn’t seen yet. He’d really only known Steve with a brave face on, caring for Robin when she got scared. Eddie had already been crushing on Steve, and hearing him laugh now took the crush to new heights. 

“Oh,” Eddie said, smiling back with a light chuckle. “Alright then. So yeah, if it’s flaking that’s okay, but I can look at it if you want.” Steve nodded, so Eddie gestured for them to go back to the space where Steve got the tattoo in the first place. 

Steve stood there awkwardly, looking at the table he was supposed to sit on, then down at his ankle, then back up. 

“How do you want me?” he asked. 

Eddie really wished he didn’t say that. 

“Uh, you can just sit like you did the other day and pull your pant leg up.” Steve did as told, crossing his left leg over his right so his ankle was in clear view. 

Eddie knew at first glance it was healing just fine, but he lingered on his work for an extra few seconds, just to extend the moment as much as he could. 

“So, what’s the verdict?” Steve asked, nervously. Eddie shook his head to get himself out of his daze. 

“Everything looks good,” he confirmed. “Maybe a bit dry. Are you putting lotion on it?”

Steve nodded, then named a kind of lotion Eddie knew was shit for this sort of thing, but it would do in a pinch. Eddie caught sight of the clock and realized Bob was going to show up with Will any moment. 

“I guess I should head out,” Steve said, noticing Eddie’s focus drifting to the time. 

“Uh, right,” Eddie said. He really did need Steve to go, but he didn’t want him to. “Yeah, I got - the manager is coming in soon with this kid who I guess is into art. I’m supposed to show him the ropes and -” Eddie paused, realizing he was just about to spill his whole guts to Steve without even thinking about it. 

“And?” Steve pressed. Shit. Eddie took a deep breath. 

“I guess the kid just came out and Bob thinks he needs another gay person to talk to or something,” Eddie admitted. 

“Oh,” Steve replied. Eddie couldn’t read his expression. He definitely looked a bit surprised, but most people did. Eddie couldn’t even count the amount of times someone had said something like, I had no idea. You don’t look it. Like, what the fuck does that even mean? He waited for Steve to say something similar, but instead the door opened. 

“Hey, Eds, we’re back!” Bob announced from the waiting area.

“Uh, good luck,” Steve mumbled, fixing his pant leg and standing up. He turned to leave, but froze when he saw the kid. “Will?”

“Steve?!” 

“Wait, you two know each other?” Eddie asked, confused. 

“Uh, yeah. I kinda used to babysit him,” Steve answered. “How have you been, dude? You’re almost as tall as me now!”

Eddie and Bob watched as Will ran to Steve and hugged him, both of them smiling warmly. 

“I’m good! Things are good!” Will said. He separated from Steve and looked to Eddie. “You must be the artist Bob has told me about.”

“That’s me,” Eddie replied with a wave. “It’s nice to meet you.”

“Well, I gotta get back to work,” Steve said, knowing that he was no longer supposed to be there. “But you’re in good hands with Eddie. He just gave me my first tattoo and he’s pretty great.”

Eddie had no idea why Steve was complimenting him so much. He could feel himself blushing. 

“You work at the place across the street?” Will asked. Steve nodded. “Yup, with Robin,” he answered. 

“Oh, how’s she doing?” Will asked. 

“She’s good. Same as always. Still the best person I know.”

Aww. That was sweet. But also annoying. For Eddie, anyway. Their goddamn relationship was long term and solid as ever, apparently.

Steve insisted again that he should get going, and then he was off. 

“So,” Eddie said, clapping his hands together. “What do you want to see first?”

They started with a tour of the place. Eddie showed Will his tattooing space first, going over the tools and explaining how it all worked. Then, Will started asking Eddie about his own tattoos, so they went over all of those next. It took a long time, because Eddie had a lot of tattoos to explain, each of them with their own backstory. Some backstories were more involved and coherent than others. Some of them just consisted of, “oh yeah, I was kinda tipsy and it seemed like a good idea at the time. Don’t do that by the way.”

“I don’t want a tattoo, anyway,” Will had responded. Eddie nodded, but had an inkling from the way Will was so fascinated by all this that he’d change his mind someday. 

After that, Eddie showed Will a bunch of designs he’d done in the past, then a few he was currently working on. Will ended up showing Eddie some of the drawings he’d done. 

“Oh, shit,” Eddie said, completely blown away. “You’re really talented, man.”

“Thanks,” Will replied with a smile. “I’ve been doing it my whole life.”

“That’s awesome. So, you think you’re gonna get into tattooing?”

“I dunno, maybe,” he responded with a shrug. “I’m going to college in the fall for art, but I don’t really know what I’m gonna do with it yet.”

“That’s soooo normal,” Eddie replied. He’d heard people say as much often, so he figured he’d pass the knowledge along. “I didn’t go to college, but I found my place here. I wasn’t an artist my whole life like you, but it turned out to kind of be perfect for me.”

“Isn’t it weird to have your designs on people’s bodies forever?”

“It’s kind of awesome, actually,” Eddie said with a grin. “It was a little wild at first to work on skin, but thankfully they had me start on oranges, first.”

“Really?” Will asked, amused. “I had no idea!”

“Yeah!” Eddie responded. “You wanna try?”

“You just have an orange lying around?” 

“I like citrus, what can I tell ya.”

Will practiced a few designs under Eddie’s watch. He caught a glimpse of Bob in the office, smiling at the two of them bonding. 

Will was cool. He was sweet. He was also sarcastic in a sneaky way. Sometimes he’d say something that caught Eddie off guard, just because Will seemed shy and quiet at first. He wasn’t, really. 

“I know why Bob wanted me to meet you,” Will said. They’d peeled the orange and were now splitting it.

“Hm?” Eddie asked. “I mean, so you could check out the shop, right?”

“It’s okay, I know he wants me to talk to other gay people,” Will pointed out, rolling his eyes. “Bob isn’t that slick.”

Eddie chuckled. Smart kid.

“Yeah, well I’ll talk about it if you want me to, but figured I’d let you bring it up first. When I was your age, I didn’t really wanna talk to anyone, but you’re a lot different than I was.”

“What do you mean?” Will asked. 

“Uhhhhhhh….” Eddie looked around nervously. Bob had closed the door to the office. “I was all over the place back then. I was the school freak - that’s literally what they called me.”

Eddie had gotten over the trauma of high school the last few years. His life stabilized, and he realized all the shit people thought about him were irrelevant. He left all of it behind, and he was a lot happier now. 

“People bully me too,” Will confessed quietly. 

“People suck,” Eddie said with a sigh. “I guess that much hasn’t changed since I graduated. Maybe we aren’t so different after all, then.”

Eddie didn’t think Will dealt drugs or got into fights like Eddie used to, but people don’t have to go through the same things to feel the same things. 

-

HOLY SHIT HOLY SHIT HOLY SHIT.

Eddie’s gay. This changes everything. 

Steve did his best to exit Ink About It calmly, and it took everything in him not to fully sprint across the street. He still ended up doing a fast walk that was basically a jog. 

He flung himself to the door and opened it, taking a deep breath. 

“Robin!” he shouted. 

His eyes focused on the absolute chaos happening in the shop. People were everywhere, like what the fuck? Robin was manning the register and answering questions as best as she could, but she was clearly in over her head. 

“Help,” she mouthed with terror in her eyes. 

Steve desperately wanted to tell her that this was karma for her saying she was bored and sending Steve away. He also wanted to tell her about his time at Ink About It. But there were other priorities first. 

Steve quickly swooped in to help her cash customers out. She scurried to the back to handle the many customers who wanted to know about the various flowers being sold. 

Steve was able to gather through small talk with the customers that prom was happening at the school down the road, and everyone was getting last minute flowers for their dates.

More accurately, the parents were. Some brave kids showed up, but they looked completely lost. 

They continued working until the rush died down, leaving the two of them on the edge of exhaustion. 

“That was brutal,” Steve muttered as he splayed himself across the counter. 

“So brutal,” Robin agreed. She was lying fully on the ground, starfish style. Bits of stems and flower petals surrounded her. It was kind of pretty, actually. 

“Hold on, stay right there,” Steve said, pulling his phone from his pocket. Before Robin could object, Steve snapped a picture from above. 

“Hey!” she said, sitting up. “I don’t want this moment of my life documented, Steven!” 

“Yes, you do. Look.” Steve bent down and showed her the picture. After a moment, she nodded. 

“Okay, fine. Yes. That’s going on my Instagram, thank you.”

“You should put it on your Hinge profile, too,” Steve suggested. 

“Good idea,” Robin agreed. She jumped to her feet and sighed. “I’m gonna go clean up the back.”

“I’ll be here,” Steve replied. 

Ten minutes went by, and then Steve heard a squealing.

“Shit! Fuck!” Robin didn’t actually curse that often, so Steve knew something must be very wrong. 

“Robs? You okay back there?” He rounded the corner just as Robin squatted behind some bouquets, concealing herself. 

“Don’t!” she yelled. “Okay, well actually I do need your help, but you have to promise not to laugh.”

“I can’t promise that, but I’ll try,” Steve said with a smirk. 

Robin straightened herself back up, and Steve got the full picture of what had happened. Her hair was all kinds of tangled in a watering can. 

He laughed so hard he cried. 

“I hate you, DIngus,” she muttered, not nearly as amused by the situation. 

“This is why you leave the watering to me,” Steve joked. “Come on, let’s get you fixed up.”

-

This is stupid. This is so stupid. Eddie, you are stupid. Get some help.

He was headed to Flowers for All with unscented lotion. For Steve. Because Eddie had no chill and was a simp. 

He didn’t even care if Steve was queer, or if he was taken. Eddie just wanted to talk to him more. 

So stupid.

Eddie walked in, triggering the bell above the door. He quickly heard voices from the back.

“Shit! Someone’s here!”

“It’s ok I got it I got it.”

There were more sounds of shuffling for a few seconds before Steve tumbled out of a doorway, blushing. 

Oh my god. Did I just interrupt them hooking up?

Eddie somehow felt even more like a dumbass. He wasn’t fazed by them getting it on at work - it’s not like he hadn’t done that before - it’s that he brought goddamn unscented lotion to his client’s place of work, unannounced and unprompted. 

“I - shit, sorry,” Eddie said, just about ready to turn and bolt. 

“It’s okay!” Steve assured him. “What’s going on Eddie?”

Robin ran out of the room so fast she almost fell over. 

“Eddie! What a wonderful surprise!” 

There was a teasing quality to her voice that Eddie mistook for her trying to cover up how flustered she was. This was all but confirmed when Steve gently elbowed her in the rib. 

“I brought this for you,” Eddie said. He raised the stupid fucking lotion so it was in plain view, then forced himself to walk to the counter and leave it there. “It’s what I use. Your tattoo will heal better. Uh - both of them. For both of you, I mean.”

“Hey, thanks, man.” Steve smiled and grabbed the lotion, inspecting it. 

“Do all tattoo artists care this much about their clients?” Robin asked. There was that teasing sound again. Is she jealous or something? 

“Well, I - Bob always tells me to be nice so I do my best. Sorry if I interrupted anything.”

Steve and Robin shared a knowing look. 

“You didn’t,” Steve said casually. “We’re finally dead again, which is the way we like it.”

“Yeah,” Robin agreed. “It was rough earlier, but we survived.”

“We always do,” Steve added. 

They were so friendly and kind, and they clearly loved each other very much. Eddie knew he needed to go. He had to go. He just needs to say goodbye, turn around, and -

“Actually, I wanted to talk to you guys about something,” Eddie blurted out. 

Shit.

He didn’t actually have anything to talk about. But luckily, one of his special skills included the ability to never shut the fuck up. 

He took a deep breath and decided to do a little improv.

(part three)

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

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[inkysqwuid]

“ The Day We Met ”

chapter three pt.2 -

‘What…the fuck just happened?’

story tags/warnings : ot8/reader, male reader, polymerous pack, possessive hints, mature series, bdsm, strangers to lovers/mates, fantasy, courting, fluff, angst, mc is just a sweetie pie, male omega reader, alpha!seonghwa, pack alpha!yunho, alpha!mingi, beta!hongjoong, beta!yeosang, omega!wooyoung, alpha!san, alpha!jongho, wooyoung hates reader?, reader is the same height as woozi from svt, 18+ only no minors!!

chapter tags : maybe short chapter, fluff

a/n note : (heart divider by @cafekitsune)

Setting the table Y/n divided the food into each plates with an extra plate of pancakes and waffles in the middle sending a quick photo to his bestfriend “i made breakfast!” Suddenly clicking off his photo when he heard the others starting to file into the kitchen. Seonghwa and mingi were the first to enter the kitchen staring in amazement. Y/n closely watched their reactions. Sure he was used to making breakfast for others like at his old family pack when he made breakfast for the pups at the daycare he worked at. But this was different, this was for his new pack that he’d hopefully be joining. “I hope this type of meal is okay, i usually only cook for the pups or lixie” he stated with a smile plastered to his face as the pack sat at the table beginning to eat. After a moment of silence compliments started to fill the air even the stubborn pack omega wooyoung even hummed in delight next to a sleepy jongho who was holding him in his lap.

“You made breakfast?! usually we just make cereal now a days, but this is wayyyy better” seonghwa muttered out. Sure they made simple breakfast’s sometimes but none of them could really cook. Although seonghwa could make certain meals. The last time the rest tried to cook, mingi for example, the food came out burnt but somehow uncooked on the inside.

“Oh my god am i even awake right now…hwa pinich me..this taste like literal heaven where have you been all my life!” hongjoong sighed out dramatically stuffing his mouth full.

San stayed glued to his pack alpha as they entered the bathroom. “wooyoung seems to be reacting better to all of this you know..he came back to the nest smelling all happy along with being drenched in y/n’s scent. we all know they playmated in the bath from all of y/n’s loud moans it was hard not to just barge in there a fuck him myself.” Yunho chuckled at the other alphas word’s although he was right y/n was no where near quiet. Which was surprising because wooyoung barely even did anything to him.

“im surprised he didn’t do more honestly you know how he is, what they did was nothing compared to other things he’s done. i know you’re jealous with how much you love to watch. just imagine being able to watch our omega fuck y/n to tears god i just know-“

“Sannie id rather not get a boner this early plus he just got here. He doesn’t even know our dynamics yet after he knows then- well he did give his verbal consent and he accepted our collar, then you all can get to know one another in your own little ways but remember i will be the first to claim him in the end if he agrees to officially join the pack. Not just as our ‘helper’ ” Placing a passionate kiss against san’s lips yunho smiled at him bumping their noses together.

Yunho coming out of the bathroom from brushing his teeth came up from behind y/n and hugged the small omega surprising him. “You didn’t have to do this you know?…hwa could have helped you” he said in a hushed tone rocking them lightly side to side. Some might say it was weird for the pack alpha so be so welcoming to an outsider especially one that was not apart of his pack but with last night’s reassurance he was filled with joy and relief. It was like watching the sunrise in the early morning, hearing the birds chirp signaling a new day as begun. Y/n fitted perfectly with the rest of the pack even if some were still reasonably questioning it. He knew from the moment they finally met that he was meant to be with him. With all eight of them, every single one.

Smiling brightly y/n turned to look at yunho. “It’s okay yall needed rest and that kind of my job yeah?” his voice having a hit of playful sass. Glancing around he counted the number of heads at the table soon frowning as there was one missing, yeosang. “Wait is sangie still sleep? You eat ill go get him!” Giving yunho a quick hug he grinned widely before scurrying off to fetch the missing beta.

Glancing towards the two hongjoong watched as y/n quickly walked back to his room.

Opening the door to his room y/n bounced in with a bubbly attitude which slowly dissipated once he spotted yeosangs facial expression. “oh you are awake i made breakfast! the others are already eating at the table but i made sure to-”

“Why does it smell like other omega in here. Not only that-…you know wooyoung is not gonna be happy once he finds out right?” It didn’t just smell like other omega in y/n’s nest let alone all of his clothes. Oh no, it smelt like sex, slick, specifically the few clothes inside his next that didn’t come from y/n and wooyoung’s actions from last night. Trust he knows all wooyoung’s scent by heart. Yeosang now understood why his fellow beta came to him fuming with jealousy. Although he was as jealous as joongie had been he was worried for how wooyoung would act. Those two were the worst when it came to being jealous and now soon to be territorial over the new omega. While y/n had been cooking yeosang made sure to take a shower and change his clothes for an extra measure just to make sure none of the unknown omega’s scent got on him from y/n’s nest. “I won’t tell him myself but you might want to consider letting him know. Woo isn’t good with feeling threatened especially by a fellow omega, if he sees this as someone trying to steal what now his.” He sighed calmly staring at y/n.

Y/n stood frozen in his spot, he didn’t think it would be that much of a disturbance. Racking his brain of any reason why the other omega would have a problem with another ones scent in his nest left him confused. It wasn’t like they’d done it- fuck wait now that he remembered him and lixie had done a few things before they left. Quoting felix’s words ‘this will for sure make sure our scents last for a while just incase we miss each other too much.’ Y/n and felix were best friends although they are more classified as fuck-with-buddies plus being bff’s. However in the heat of the moment y/n didn’t bother to think rationally about the situation. All he could the of was to defend himself. Defend his nest. “Its just lixie, my bestfriend from my old pack back at home. Plus none of you have any say in what or who’s scent i include in my nest. If you don’t like it then…then fuck off!” he growled out his scent souring into a burnt chocolate smell. ‘wrong, beta not like nest. wrong. wrong. mine.’ Stomping over to his bed and shoving the beta away from his nest, the bell on his collar ringing violently from his harsh movements. It was his nest anyway he almost felt offended. Was his nest not perfect? He had spent all of 30 minutes setting it up and perfecting it. It was natural to feel hurt by someone commenting of any aspect of an omega’s nest if it wasn’t positive. It was their safe space.

“I didn’t mean to offend you i was just warning yo-”

“Breakfast is on the table” was all he said the tips of y/n’s ears turning red as he took a deep breath leaving the beta speechless. Tears gathering in his eyes. Y/n knew he was being difficult a brat even, not willing to even hear yeosang out. He didn’t care it was too early in the morning.

Yeosang walked in the kitchen fixing himself a cup of coffee while the rest just stared at him. “Sangie what happened why does is smell like burnt cake? Did you and y/n argue i heard him yell” seonghwa voiced out with concern. Sure enough when he was about to continue the sound of a door slamming shut sounded out throughout the kitchen.

Yeosang shook his head letting out a mocking laugh, “All i did was try to give the omega a heads up on something and it didn’t go that well.” He found it all amusing really, yeah the other had all the reason to be slightly upset but he also knew y/n was just being a brat. The other could have easily talked it out like an adult but that didn’t happen nor did he expect it to. Sitting down at the table he glanced at wooyoung before giving san a knowing look ‘seems like you were right.’

Wooyoung then spoke up, “maybe i should go talk to him you probably offended him with your oblivious-ness” he giggled out joined by a couple others.

“No, its okay let him cool off i doubt you would wanna go in there right now anyway with-” yeosang said nonchalantly before hongjoong abruptly cut him off quickly changed the topic before the omega could question. “So since woo, sangie, mingi, and hwa have the day free maybe you all can help get to know y/n. Let him know everyones cycle schedules- the ones that are coming up so no one is caught off guard.” He’d rather not escalate the situation more than needed. Of course everyone else wouldn’t have as much as a problem with y/n having his bestfriends/fwb’s scent in his nest, wooyoung was just extremely possessive. Once everyone was done eating seonghwa collected all the dishes putting them the dishwasher while jongho gave everyone kisses goodbye followed by the rest who had dance practice. After he was done, seonghwa ushered the rest to go sit in the living room before sending wooyoung off to get y/n.

In y/n’s room, the omega had called felix ranting about what happened as he rearranged his nest for the fifth time. “You know i knew this was bound to happen, with you practically being their new omega of course one of them is going to have a problem with you smelling like someone else. Not to mention with you keeping my slick stained shorts that i TOLD you to give up, but your drunk omega brain refused” felix chuckled out whole heartily. He recalled how on the night before they had to leave they had play-mated round after round until he left y/n begging for him to cum inside and refusing to let him pull out until he had a plug to fill him instead. Felix watched y/n’s collar as he began defending himself, “hey that really suits you, the collar i mean, but anyway you and i know he didn’t mean to offend you he was just being reasonable. Plus he did apologize right? If i were whats his name..wooyoung? i would be unhappy too with some random omegas slick in who is supposed to be ‘my omegas’ nest.”

Y/n sat infront of the phone’s camera listening to felix’s words letting them sink into his brain. Maybe he did a bit much with slamming the door. Now that he had really thought about it, it did make sense. This wasn’t the first time he had something similar to this happen. Felix had accidentally messed up his nest while y/n was cooking blueberry pancakes leaving him to walk back into the room thinking he was taking it apart which left the small male fuming with hurt and anger. Y/n didn’t even bother listening to his explanation before he threw the spatula at him and shoved him out of his room. That was also the first time he growled at his best friend surprising them both. After talking it out y/n laughed at the memory joined by felix who began teasing him resulting in the in him threatening to bake his favorite brownies the next time they meet and not share a single one. Running a hand through his fluffy hair he turned around at someone knocking on the room door, “give me a second lixie” Getting up he hurried to open the door. “oh hi hyung!”

Wooyoung stared down at y/n, “May i come in? i heard you and sangie’s little argument and i wanted to check up on you. I know how his words can come off as harmful at times.” Welcoming himself in he walking around the room seeing how y/n had already began decorating the space with little plants. Smiling softly at the other wooyoung continued on, “Any who i came to also tell you that we wanted to continue our conversation from last night-…”

“Y/n-ie who was it? hellooo” felix yelled out into the phone curiously, spotting a attractive male now into the cameras view. Y/n glanced towards his phone that was propped up on his pillow as wooyoung stared it down along with the cloth near it. Nibbling on his bottom lip he hurriedly jumped onto the middle of his nest snatching his phone. “Oh uh- lixie i gotta go byeee” he blew a kiss before suddenly ending the call. Clutching his phone he slid off the bed walking to wooyoung, “I know what your thinking that was just my best friend lixie-”

Wooyoung’s scent turnt bitter as his eyes stayed on the bed, “Why does it smell like another omega. Do you even understand what that collar means? You are ours, mine! Yet here you have another omega’s slick stained fucking clothes in your nest.” He held back a growl as he stalked toward y/n suddenly smelling the unknown omega everywhere making him even more upset. Not to mention how y/n spoke of the unknown omega so fondly. “Was this some joke to you? you’re mine so why the fuck to you smell of someone else” he gritted out while roughly tilting y/n’s chin up to look at him.

“I dont!- i mean i do but i was planning to get rid of it i promise i was talking about it with lixie! I was going to tell you first but yeosang found out..” Y/n spoke quickly his eyebrows pressed together in frustration. Suddenly his (felix’s) hoodie was being pulled off of him and thrown in the corner as wooyoung began scenting him roughly, leaving dark hickeys on his neck while muttering.

Wooyoung growled at the mention of the unknown omega’s name, “Oh so you weren’t going to tell me?” Y/n couldn’t say he was surprised at the males reaction. Felix had told him this was going to happen and oddly enough y/n wasn’t hurt nor offended, if it were any other pack he would have went off. Yet he was still caught off-guard. Letting out a small whine he gripped onto wooyoungs arms trying to pushed him away to continue explaining himself only earning a warning growl. Staying still he panted out a few words, “You can take it apart! i-im okay with you getting rid of any of felix’s scent only if you let me store it in my suitcase” his heart racing in his chest. Having the other upset with him was making y/n restless they had started off fairly well although a little rocky at first. Y/n would do anything in that moment to appease wooyoung.

Pulling away from y/n’s neck once he was partially satisfied with his work, wooyoung stomped over to the bed beginning to take the nest apart. He even made sure to rip apart the pair of shorts that had felix’s slick stained on them. He was almost embarrassed by how fast he got jealous. It didn’t help that his inner omega was still fuming at the though of someone else try to steal y/n away from him. They had just gotten him. He felt as if he needed to place his claim on him just to cool his inner turmoil, maybe it was because his omega was a higher status than y/n’s. “I am going to make you a new one myself, but first we have to continue our conversation from last night.” Rushing to his own closet wooyoung picked out one of his own t-shirts and scented it heavily before going back to y/n’s room proceeding to put it on y/n himself. “Come we’ll finish this later but for now i’d rather not have not hwa have a fit because we’re taking so long.” Taking a deep breath the two left the now messy room, y/n still a bit dazed. ‘What…the fuck just happened?’ was all he could think of he couldn’t decide whether he was turned on, lost, or happy that wooyoung basically announced that he accepted him as his.

Walking to the living room mingi eyed the two as they sat down, y/n on wooyoung’s lap. Mingi knew something happened but decided to save that question for later. Seonghwa then began to speak with a bright smile plastered on his face, “Okay ill start first i want to explain some of the roles of certain members of our pack so you can get to know us a little better. I personally know a little about how things are in a secluded pack as i lived in one for a short while and how different things can be. Which is another reason why i myself was extremely happy when you accepted the collar, it means alot to you and us so it is an honor. Anywho to start yunho is as you know our pack alpha but he is also the one who does most of the discipline and punishments along with san who is our brat tamer. Then there’s me and jongho who are more of the ‘caretakers’ we make sure everyone especially the omegas are taken care of and will mostly feed you ourselves. Im sure you’re used to that part from your old pack?”

Nodding his head y/n listened to the alpha closely. He could almost feel san and wooyoung’s eye contact the moment his name was mentioned. Don’t get him wrong y/n was fairly well behaved but he was indeed a brat even if he acted like he was some sweet angel when they first meet face to face. With his big doe eyes, fluffy hair, and soft voice y/n sold his innocent act well plus his average short height for an omega made it even better. As he fooled everyone around him, san saw right through his innocent front. It was no lie that the alpha could spot a brat from a mile away. “Mhm! some of the alphas would feed me and lixie before they went to hunt or just randomly at our festivals which was normal well i guess normal for us? I know its different here” y/n stated as wooyoung pulled him impossibly to him still on edge from earlier.

“Yes it is indeed different here, people here are more how do i put it their more private to who cares for their pack. For example in secluded packs like yours and my old one, it’s normal for alphas to care for omegas and give them their attention more because thats what they were taught, but here its seen as a threat if someone other than ur mated pack to do such things. Its seen as one trying to steal the omega from them. People who come from secluded packs are more in touch with their inner wolf and base instincts no matter their status, but here not so much.” Seonghwa made sure to throughly explain to not only y/n but the rest of them it was important to do so to prevent unnecessary misunderstandings. Even though he understood some of the new omegas actions that didn’t mean the others did, “For instance wooyoung i noticed something happened this morning and our betas texted me mind explaining to san and mingi?” Of course hongjoong would tell the alpha anything that was bothering him and yeosang just couldn’t keep a secret especially if it would cause problems for his fellow pack members. Honestly seonghwa found it kind of amusing.

Mingi then spoke up pushing wooyoung to answer truthfully he was worried for him, “We can all see the marks u left on him not to mention we can barely smell y/n’s own scent. You have hlued yourself to him. So its no use lieing you only do that when u feel threatened and we all know you never growl i heard it we all did.” Y/n stayed quiet while letting out calming pheromones sensing how worried mingi and san truly were.

Wooyoung sighed into y/n’s neck with a pout his arms still wrapped tightly around his waist, “When i went into y/n’s room to check up on him i smelled another omega in there besides myself…and he was on call with some other omega. It made me so angry and i kind of lashed out i dont know why..normally im not this way if its not one of you guys but with him i feel even more protective? I felt threatened..” Wooyoung then went of explaining everything not leaving even the smallest detail out. It was relieving to get his thoughts off his chest to his alphas, “I know how i am but that was different it was like my inner omega was enraged. Luckily i held it in a little better or that would have been worst.”

Y/n gasped his eyes widened at the males last words, turning around in wooyoung’s lap he embraced the older omega an effort to comfort him. He didn’t tell him that in the room, sure he knew that wooyoung would be upset from felix’s explanation and the beta’s warnings, but he didn’t know his inner omega would be that upset too. He felt guilty now even though he knew he shouldn’t be. Placing a small kiss to his neck he whispered apologizes, “Im sorry for upsetting you i really am, i didn’t mean to i promise.” Raising his head he looked in his eyes with a small frown. His hands coming up to caress the older omega’s cheeks checking for any negative emotions on wooyoungs face or in his scent.

The three alphas watched the how y/n had reacted to the situation and comforted their omega. He noticed the changes in not only their body language but their scent and had let out calming pheromones for them. This is when mingi noticed why yunho had made a great choice of choosing him for his pack. Sure it was different having another omega in the pack but he now sees why even their own omega need another one. Seonghwa cleared his throat nodding while san and mingi went to the pair showering wooyoung in kisses. “Thank you for telling us woo” san whispered between kisses while mingi began scenting him. Y/n had managed to wriggle his way out of the omega’s arms as the two alphas surrounded wooyoung. Smiling to himself for a short moment he admired their affection. Looking around he paused, ‘wait..what wheres seonghwa?’ as if on que the alpha rubbed the top of y/n’s head messing up his hair even more.

“Im right here pup, now that we’ve gotten that out of the way ill just continue. Those three are gonna take a minute, haha. We always tend to be a bit more affectionate when it comes to any of us being upset, especially when its our omega or now should i say one of our omega’s?” the alpha paused with a hum tucking y/n’s hair behind his ear, god how are you so adorable. Y/n had reminded him of a bunny or maybe that was just the way his big doe eyes stared up at him when he talked, so much for being descended from wolves. “My rut is approaching in a few weeks, two to be exact while wooyoungs is after that. Oh and normally san’s rut and wooyoung’s heat tend to sink-up. The rest we’ll mention when they get closer” he spoke softly as if not to spook y/n gently pulling the male onto his lap. “I know i already said this but we really are glad you’re here. I don’t know what we would have done if it were anyone else. Its hard to explain…but i can tell even without words. May i scent you? Dont worry woo will be okay i promise.”

Seonghwa had made sure they were facing the now scent high omega. Wooyoung has a perfect view of y/n, seonghwa even made sure to make eye contact with the omega with a silent ask for permission. He knew that something was off with wooyoung, and only himself and seonghwa knew the true reasoning. Y/n thought about it for a moment, ‘is wooyoung okay? maybe he- no he will make sure to give the older omega more attention for today’ his teeth nibbling at his bottom lip before he nodded. Letting out a light sigh he reminded himself ‘he is okay, omega not mad anymore, alpha safe’ His omega felt restless wanting to check once more for himself just to make sure he was really okay with seonghwa scenting him but he shook it off turning around in the alpha’s lap. “Only if woo said its okay” y/n whispered out to the alpha. Scooting in closer he bared his neck just a bit allowing himself to be scented.

Smiling down softly at the small omega in his arms seonghwa dipped his face into y/n’s neck rubbing all the away up to the soft plush of his cheek. Feeling y/n began to relax more in his arms he hummed satisfied. The small male was already so easy to comply yet also keep them on their toes, he was soft and had a hourglass figure just like wooyoung, the difference being that he was shorter.

[hogpostingcrooner]

Kim Kitsuragi Feet Analysis

It's time we stopped fucking around and focused on what really matters: how big are Kim Kitsuragi's feet? It's never stated in-game but I believe we can get an accurate guess of his gripper geometry without too much grief. How tall is Kim Kitsuragi? Well there are no direct references to his height in-game or otherwise, but we do get a sense of Harry's height when trying to climb the feld ladder:

FELD LADDER – In addition, the first rung is going to be *tough* to reach. It's, what, three metres above ground, and you're -- 180...?

YOU – One-eighty seems about right. 180cm converted to inches is 5'10, so we can say Harry is about that. In official art Kim is shown to be a good bit shorter than Harry, shown here

So if we go full matpat, we can count the pixel difference in their heights. Kim is slouching but Harry appears to be as well so I'm not gonna worry about that.

Guessing where their feet are and cropping the image I can say Harry is 260 pixels tall in this image, we know he's 70 inches tall but those don't divide neatly and I'm bad at math so instead im just gonna cut them in half.

130 pixels, the way god intended. This represents 35 inches I'm pretty sure and I don't want to keep cutting it in half because I don't like doing math. If we crop down to Kim's head it become 100 pixels and I don't know what to derive from that but here's that for evidence.

so if Harry is 30 pixels taller and 260 pixels is 70 inches then I need to go back to school bc I have a headache :( 260/30 is 8.6 so uh through the diffident property i can say that i'm going to try to divide 70 by 8.6 and i dont think it's the right kind of math to do. i get 0.28 and now i kinda want to give up writing this post. i dunno maybe i should divide 260 by 70? that gives me 3.7 and im feeling kinda bad because i didnt eat breakfast. so if 1 inch is 3.7 pixels or something? then 230/3.7 is 62 which i think means kim is 5'2? i dont know i dont really care anymore we're going with that.

now if we look at this concept art i get kinda overwhelmed because i dont want to do math again.

im gonna say he's like 8 shoes tall and not worry any further. 62/8 is 7.75 which seems too small i dunno nothing really matters to me anymore.

#disco elysium #harrykim #kim kitsuragi

[larakb117]

LONDON ADVENTURE

Joseph Quinn & female y/n

Summary: Just smutty smut with Joe & female y/n.

Content warning: rpf, smut (18+), oral (female & male receiving), fluff

Part 12

The next few days were packed with appointments for Joe. You attended his Tonight Show appearance and actually got to know Jimmy Fallon himself. He was a funny and polite guy, introducing himself to you the moment you and Joe arrived at the NBC studios, right after you had went on top of that building: Rockefeller Center. The view from up there was mindblowing. Looking at Central Park, the Empire State Building and the stunning One World Trade Centre in the background let goosebumps run down your whole body.

The tonight show was really fun, a newcomer band performed, you were able to sit in the crowd right at the front. A few minutes before the show officially started some scattered seats got filled with some more people. You got a glimpse at one of them, who wore a Joseph Quinn shirt, crying in her seat. Joe sat in his seat, answered Jimmys questions and just looked so handsome. They both played Mad Lip Theatre together, which was hilarious and actually one of your favorite challenges they do on the show, so it was pretty cool to see it live. After they had finished filming the show, you were guided back to Joes backstage room. You rushed into his arms as soon as you stepped into the room: “Babe, you were amazing!��, Joe hold you close and kissed your forehead. “Thanks, love.” His hands rubbed your back up and down. You looked up to him, he stood really straight while you kind of sank into his arms, that’s why your little height difference multiplied by, what felt like, 5. Joe hold you for a couple of minutes. “Wanna grab something to eat?” You nodded and loosened the tight grip on his upper body.

Just some streets downtown from the NBC Studios you and Joe took a seat outside of one off the restaurants on the side of the street. Like always Joe hold your hand with his, they laid right in the middle of the table between you. After a bit of chatting and eating the food you had ordered you just sat their together and watched the most diverse people walking by. Suddenly one of those persons stopped rapidly and looked at Joe in disbelief once she perceived him. “Oh my god, you are Joseph Quinn!” Joe smiled shyly and ran his hand through his hair: “Yeah.”, he simply said. The girl chuckled nervously and stared at Joe for a moment. “You want to take a picture or something?”, Joe obviously tried to break the awkward silence between them. “Oh, yes. Hahaha!”, the girl laughed and her face turned red immediately. Joe stood up, laid his hand on her shoulder and they took a selfie. “What`s your name darling?”, Joe asked. “I´m Cara.”, she answered, shaking because of her tension. “Can I hug you?”, Cara asked. Joe went straight in, and hugged Cara. It was a long hug, definitely distant but you still felt a little sting in your chest. He also rubbed her back, not like he did with you, but still, the little sting was there. Joe broke the hug and sat back down at the table: “Have a lovely day, Cara!”, he winked at her and waved, when she turned around and continued her walk.

Joe looked at you: “You okay?”, he obviously had recognized your nervous hand scratching, that you always did when you felt uncomfortable. He tried to reassure you with a tiny smile and a little hand squeeze as he took your hand again. “Yeah, yeah…”, Joe did not believe you for sure. He knew exactly what was going on, you could see it in his eyes. Just a few days with him, but you already knew each other that well. “D´you know what? We should get to the hotel now.” He cheekily smiled at you now. You immediately understood. The sting was gone. Joe chuckled, grabbed your arm and ran to the next available cab with you.

The moment the backdoor of the cab got closed and Joe had told the driver the address of the hotel, he attacked your neck by roughly kissing and und running his tongue up and down, your head fell to the side to give him better access. His tongue touched your earlobe where he started to nibble a bit. Everything he did with his mouth made you moan, no matter which part of your body he touched with it. His hands got caught in your hair, you clenched your thighs together, you needed him right now. The cab driver cleared his throat at the front seat and Joe and you, separated right away. “We´re here.”

Joe paid and again grabbed your arm, teared you out of the car and into the lift at the hotel lobby. You were alone, so Joe kissed you again and again, your body stuck between his and the lift wall, this time it was sensual kisses on your lips. The fast switch from rough and passionate to slow and soft made your head dizzy. The lift door opened, Joe ran down the hall to your room and opened it with the key card. In chuckles you entered the room, Joe rapidly pushed you to the nearest wall and kissed you. His mouth wandered from your lips, down your jaw and neck and over the blouse you had decided for this morning. He pushed the waistband of it a little bit up, to gently kiss your lower stomach.

Roughly he pushed down your jeans and panties underneath at the same time. They were wrapped around your ankles now while Joe started to kiss you where you really needed him. You bumped your head to the wall in your arousal. Joe lifted your left leg up on his shoulder, he was on his knees for you. The little pressure of his tongue on your clit while he grabbed your thighs made you cum fast and hard. Your hands were tangled in his curls, trying to push him even more into your pussy, riding out your high against his face. His name escaped your throat several times, mixed with loud moans and sighs.

Joe removed your leg from his shoulder and guided you to the bed, where you laid in front of him. He removed your jeans completely, and opened the buttons of you shirt, until you were displayed entirely naked for him. He bit his lower lip and looked you deep in the eyes. “Damn, you are the most beautiful human I know, love.” You shyly smiled and sat up to undress him too. You could see his bulge clearly forming in his pants.

His shirt went to the floor, his pants followed them, then his boxers, his cock sprang free and for the first time, you felt like you wanted to try one of those things you were afraid of the whole time. “I want to blow you.”, you said to Joe staring at his hard cock right in front of your head. “You… what?”, Joe heavily exhaled. Now you looked up to him: “I want to blow you, Joe.” “You want my dick in your mouth?” “Yes.”, you were so sure, but Joe was obviously unsure about it. “You don’t want it?” “Oh I would love to, y/n. But are you sure about that?” You hectically nodded and touched his length, to start off, with your right hand. He moaned into the touch, which made you smile in pride. Your hand pumped his cock a few times, precum leaking out of it.

Then you wrapped your lips around his tip. Joe couldn’t contain a loud grunt. His hands were in your hair, slightly pulling at them. You loved the effect it had on him. You slowly started to get some more of his cock into your mouth, your tongue playing with it too, Joe letting out the filthiest sounds. “Oh, I´m so close.” You sucked him harder, taking more and more of his hard cock into your mouth, almost your throat, until your gag reflex kicked in. His breathing got heavier, which made you pussy throb. You needed him, very bad. “Y/n, I´m cumming. Where?”, was everything Joe managed to get out. You wanted him right inside, so you did not let go, when you felt his cock twitching in between your lips. The hot rope of cum shot down your throat, a weird but good feeling, you swallowed all his cum straight away.

Joe let out the loudest groan you ever heard from him. His hands were still in your hair with a tight grip, pushing your head more onto his cock which let it touch the back of your throat. He tasted amazing. You would have never thought that you would do something like this: deep throating a man in a hotel room in New York City.

Joe giggled a bit, and pulled his cock out of your mouth. “Damn, that was great.”, he sighed and sat down on the floor, aligning his face with yours. The entire time he had stood, while you kneeled on the bed. Joe smiled at you: “Thank you.” He cupped your cheek and pulled you in for a kiss. It was loving, long and intense. You wondered if he could taste himself in the kiss. “Already excited for the next time.”, you cheekily smiled back at Joe.

You hadn’t thought that it would be so enjoyable for yourself to give somebody a blowjob, but it was, at least with Joe. “It´s your turn again now.” He pushed you on your back onto the bed, and crawled on top of you. His hands next to your head at first he started to slow kiss you, running his tongue around your lips and then into your mouth, when you slightly opened it. One of his hands left the position to gently touch your clit.

Your whole body clenched together, you moaned into his mouth, deepening the wet kiss even more. “Joe.” “Yes?” “Please…” Joe interrupted your kiss and went straight down on you. His arms spread your legs, you tried to watch him but your head fell back the moment he laid his mouth on your clit. Moans, grunts, sighs, groans left your throat. He was so good at this, he never missed. Now it was your turn to bury your hands in his hair. The noises he made, while sucking you down there made you crazy in the best way possible. His head was trapped between your thighs now, your hands pushing him more and more in. His hands had a tight grip on your thighs as well. You slightly pushed up your hips, hovering over the sheets underneath. You were close, very close.

Joe added one of his fingers in your throbbing hole, a second one joined just a few seconds later, hitting your sweet spot instantly because he curled his fingers just the right angle. That made you scream his name. Your hotel neighbours were probably pretty annoyed by the constant sex noises from your room, but you didn´t care. All you could think about right now was the orgasm building up. You came hard, and loud, obviously. Joe left your soaking temple and hovered right above your face with a wide smile. “Was it good?” “You dumbass!” , you both bursted into an uncontrollable laugh. After some cuddling, kissing and making out you decided to have a pee, safety first. Your girlfriends always told you about that, but the sex you and Joe had within the last week never really led up to you leaving for the bathroom. You simply really had to pee.

To be continued…

@eviethetheatrefreak

#joseph quinn #joseph quinn imagine #eddie munson #joe quinn #joseph quinn smut #joseph quinn x reader #joseph quinn x y/n #joseph quinn fanfiction #fluffy #joseph quinn rpf #rpf #joe quinn rpf #slow burn

[txttletale]

this isnt a defence of dnd but I was hoping to ask for clarification on a couple points you made that I dont fully understand and I'm clearly missing something. Namely that you mentioned racial connotations to the barbarian class and colonial connotations to the ranger class. Like I understand the term barbarian has imperial and xenophobic overtones to it but I can't tell where there are specific native stereotypes in it as it appears in dnd

yeah, i mean, a lot of the forms of racism that are at play here are deeply embedded into cultural norms and popular tropes, so if they're not stereotypes that affect you it can be easy to miss them. i'll be going solely by the DNDBeyond official class description: i've highlighted relevant sections

so, first of all, notice the very telling use of the word 'savage'. this is an extremely racialised term that is used against indigenous people to this day. yes, it's used here as an adjective rather than a noun, but in context it's telling, especially alongside 'tribe'--another very racialised word: europeans have 'ethnic groups' or 'nations', indigenous peoples have 'tribes'. 'savage tribe' is how indigenous people have been described for a long time, especially during the height of colonialism. some easy examples i found with a minute's googling:

note also the 'elk herd'. this class description is going to keep hammering home that barbarians are from nomadic backgrounds. a very common defense of the barbarian class is that it's based on norse berserkers--which is true to an extent, especially wrt 'rage', their headline class ability--but while the norse conducted raids and invasions, they lived in settlements. vast swathes of the conceptual makeup of the fantasy barbarian is derived from the colonialist imaginary of the nomadic, 'warlike', 'savage'.

moving on, we're hit with a barrage of direct comparisons to animals. now, i'm obviously not saying that it's racist to ever compare a character to an animal--but the barbarian class very explicitly represents a group of people with a certain lifestyle, and in the real world, comparing groups of people to animals has been a longstanding method of dehumanization that's been applied especially brutally to indigenous and Black victims of colonialism. and while 'animal spirits' is a fun vulfpeck song, here it's clearly invoked as a caricature of 'primitive' spirituality. why are the spirits 'fierce?' why must they be 'animal spirits?' why do other classes in DND invoke gods and demons, but the barbarian invokes 'spirits?'.

now it gets even more blatant. the barbarian is 'primal' -- they have an 'animal nature' -- they're explicitly contrasted to 'civilization' and associated with 'nature' -- this is a textbook example the 'noble savage' stereotype and it's as old as colonialism. and of course, the barbarian comes from 'tundra, jungle, or grasslands'.

so, here we have a very explicit confirmation of what i was talking here earlier re: barbarians very clearly intended to be nomadic peoples. they live in the 'wild places of the world' -- another colonialist trope rears its head here, the idea of an 'untamed wilderness' that can only be mastered by colonial domination, where the people are also 'wild'.

a 'frontier', huh? the idea of the 'rough frontier' is pure unadulterated colonial fantasy, straight outta manifest destiny. the 'frontier' is the area along which settler-colonialism takes place, where the civilized 'us' meets the savage 'them' in the context of the colonial national myth. and of course, the suggestion that your barbarian character might be a 'prisoner of war, brought in chains to ''civilized'' lands' is pretty clearly founded in the very racialised institution of slavery! (interesting to deploy the scare quotes around 'civilized' now when you were just drawing a fully unironic primal/civilized distiction a paragraph ago, wizards of the coast)

these same ideas about the ‘frontier’, about ‘wild lands’ and ‘the edges of civilization’ (and ‘civilization’ as a geographic notion with ‘borderlands’ that need to be ‘protected’) can incidentally also be seen here in the ranger’s flavour text. again, the idea that ‘civilization’ has a defined endpoint, beyond which there’s only ‘wilderness’ and ‘barbarians’ and ‘savage tribes’ has its origins in the roman empire, grandfather of modern imperialism, and the idea’s hold on the contemporary fantasy genre consciousness has its roots in manifest destiny and the american western frontier, where it serves the ideological purpose of obscuring the bloody and brutal wars of conquest that were waged nonstop against the many people who lived on the ‘uncivilized’ side of that imaginary dividing line in order to push the ‘frontier’ forward.

now, this part isn't on dnd beyond so i’m using a shitty little rulebook scan i found online bc i cba to properly pirate 5e again for this post, but by far the most played barbarian subclass is the path of the totem warrior. with the terms ‘spirit animal’ and ‘totem’, dnd 5e very specifically appropriates the real-world religous beliefs of native peoples. the term’s been beaten into the fucking ground over the last few years but this is some of the most cut-and-dry cultural appropriation i can imagine. and what does the path of the totem do? it gives the barbarian the abilities of animals, of course. Wolf Totems and Bear Totems and Eagle Totems, oh my! right back to the noble savage, the ‘wild man’, the dehumanizing animal comparisons we were talking about earlier.

now some of this, in a different context, could be innocuous and inoffensive. it’s not in a different context, though, it’s in this context--and in this context, it’s pretty clear that the ‘barbarian’ class has both feet planted firmly in the colonialist anti-indigenous imaginary. if you want a little more reading on this, this is a great article on the topic--but tldr: the colonial myth of the ‘wild frontier’ is load-bearing to the concepts of the barbarian and the ranger, and the barbarian in particular has anti-indigenous racist tropes marinating its flavor text.

#ask #dnd #ttrpg #long post #orc discourse

[starfxkr]

i had this idea of kook! reader whose so new to the outer banks shes doesnt even know shes a kook and she meets jj, and he just tries to just protect her from the kooks and like take her in. could also maybe incorporate jealous rafe whose tryna do the complete opposite as jayj at the same time.

⋆｡˚ ☁︎ ˚｡⋆｡˚☽˚｡⋆

meeting jj had been a blessing— you were brand new to outer banks, hailing from the midwest and touted along by your parents because they “needed a change of scenery”. you can’t you blamed them, already preferring the warm, balmy air and sunny skies compared to the ever present grayness of your city. when you say you ran into jj on the beach, you quite literally ran into him. or he ran into you. whatever he was doing he was clearly in a rush but he cam to a halt once he saw who he ran into.

“jesus christ sweetheart im so sorry, swear my feet move faster than my head sometimes.” he dropped to his knees to help you scoop up the spilled contents of your bag, “ya know now i think about it, i never seen you before and trust me i know everybody. you new here?” he stands to his full height and helps you up, you’d be lying if you said he wasnt cute. his shaggy blonde hair, blue eyes and dimples smile hit you right in the gut.

“um yea!” that was way too enthusiastic, you clear your throat, “yea me and my parents just moved here a few days ago.”

“oh shit well welcome to the obx sweetheart, paridise on earth ’s what we like to call it. i’m jj, i’ll be your official tour guide, how’s that sound?”

god you hope you don’t seem too excited when you say yes.

⋆｡˚ ☁︎ ˚｡⋆｡˚☽˚｡⋆

you and jj spend the whole day together, he introduces you to his friends, the “pogues” is what he called them and it left you confused.

“why would you call yourself pogues? it doesnt sound very nice.” your face is screwed up as he drives you back to your home, it’s dawning on him that that he may have just saved a sweet kitten like you from the lion’s den.

“it just is what it is, people like us dont exactly have a pool house.” he pointedly nods at the massive building behind your main house, “besides, im just happen to give you a real warm welcome, not everyone’s as nice as we are.” he can tell youre still confused. “kooks sweetheart, the upper crust in figure 8– thas technically what you are, with the pool house and all.”

“oh…but that doesnt mean we cant hang out does it?”

“oh fuck no are you kiddin me? just means we have to hang out more so you dont get corrupter by anyone other than me.” he teases. “just let me know what youre doin tomorrow aight? ill come pick you up”

this time you cant contain yourself and you give him a kiss on the cheek, yelling “bye jj!” as you run up your driveway, too giddy to look back.

⋆｡˚ ☁︎ ˚｡⋆｡˚☽˚｡⋆

unfortunately the next day, you dont get to see jj. instead your stuck on the golf course with your dad as he schmoozes with a man named ward cameron.

you dont pay much attention to what theyre talking about, instead choosing to listen to music and daydream about what you’d rather be doing.

“ah there’s my son! a whole half hour late just as i expected, glad to see you could join us rafe.” ward’s mention of his son just made you huff and roll your eyes, you could only handle so many bratty kooks— you were starting to see what jj was talking about.

“it’s nice to meet you son, this is my daughter.” you lift your head prepared to plaster another fake smile on your face when your freeze.

you weren’t expecting rafe to be so hot. and i guess he wasn’t expecting you to be either.

dumbly, you reach out to shake his hand, “nice to meet you rafe.”

before he can respond, ward speaks out, “hey rafe, why dont you take her to that party you were talkin about later?”

#✨.txt #jj x reader x rafe prompt

[saelterlude]

started making this list early (11/02) even though there's no new performance until 16/02 bcs i accidentally found somethings (also bcs I was doing that cursed height ranking).

so here is link click musical clip list pt.3! (pt.1, pt.2, pt.4, pt.5 here)

37. 15/11/2024, this! the OG hug with Shu Rongbo and Wu Yihan! Back when Shu Rongbo still (attempts to) have canon accurate split bangs and ponytail (unlike now when he has, adorable, messy bangs and a hard-to-spot ponytail), and his jacket still fits lol.

38. 17/02/2024, Cai Qi being a menace at rock paper scissors, Cai Lu being a menace on the sofa (+dog hat), and Wu Yihan being a menace to Hong Guo and they struggle to hold hands?? during curtain call. Also I don't understand why does Wu Yihan look so tiny next to Cai Qi, like? I never thought he was smol before this??

39. 06/01/2024, maybe it's because I was very tired when I found this but Du Guangyi tossing the cushion away like that is exactly my type of humor.

40. 16/02/2024, Let me give you the loudest QL slap you'll ever heard courtesy of Wu Hanglu and Wang Yifei's shoulders. Also, behavior wise Du Guangyi maybe the least LG-like LG actor but god do I like his humor (pls he jumped up the table like a pocong lol, and the way he jump kicked Wang Yifei? He's a Gem.).

(Honestly, I think I can make a whole other list just full of the shit Du Guangyi pulls. He's very mischievous but also giving grandpa. But I won't because @shimmeringweeds is working on a gifset of it <3 Goodluck!!)

41. 21/02/2024, Cai Qi being extra heart hands <3 and Wang Minhui being extra aggressive.

42. 24/02/2024 day, I have nothing to say other than Guo Hongxu is really pretty. No, I cannot explain why i pick this particular clip. Look up stage door pictures from this day too, I swear he's just really pretty on that day.

43. 25/02/2024 day, a second Guo Hongxu clip. Look at him being embarrassed and becoming a loaf.

Counting down to the 100th link click musical performance! These are the official special encore recordings from the musical's weibo acc. So they're modified versions of the actual performance.

Since we're getting into songs outside the usual encore, I'll reference you to this post by @sgdlr-asdfghjkl with lyrics and brief explanation to each song, it's an unofficial transcript but it's the best we currently have.

These first two are "Words Can't Convey My Love" (M07)

44. 20/02/2024, Wang Minhui bets he can confess better than Bai Zhuoming better, sings the confession song and fails miserably. And poor Wu Hanglu accidentally got kicked by Bai Zhuoming.

45. 22/02/2024, You have to watch this one. You have Du Guangyi being the comedic genius that he is, cocky speech, dramatic pause, Lu Guang rizz, pathetic crying, failed confetti. You get the best Wang Yifei outfit, also he's skipping around the stage. And Qian Anqi can't help but laugh too!

46. 23/01/2024, We got "Faith of Friendship" (M05). Teng Chunpeng and Du Guangyi gotta do pushups if they fail to land a shot, and the ending is hilarious, do give it a watch.

*note: You can see how M07 and M05 are actually supposed to go in the bottom of the pt.2 list.

Next two are also of the same song, the extended ver. of the sofa song "Forget About It" (M03). TW: hanging/noose. They take CXS's "I'll hang myself here" joke and put it in the song.

47. 24/02/2024 night, actor/role swap stage! Wu Yihan played CXS, Deng Xianling played LG, and Ding Xingchen played QL. Wu Yihan was definitely having fun howling here. Also, disastrous cast introduction by Ding Xingchen lol.

48. 25/02/2024 day, the actors are the right way around this time with Guo Hongxu, Ji Xiaokun, and Cai Lu. But they're all using different local dialect! You can even see Cai Lu cheats and read from her phone.

49. 25/02/2024 night, "As The Saying Goes" (M08), where mother and son have a quarrel. Cai Qi as CX gets scolded x4 by the rest of the cast as CX's mama. Yes, that includes Wang Minhui putting him in timeout. But there's more!

50. 25/02/2024 night, a very important fancam on the performance above. It's shaky but pls pay close attention to Zhang Jiahao, should be easy, the fancam is focused on him. the wig, the very real fried chicken (i thought it was a fake, it wasn't), he was munching the entire time, and the chair, thank you very much sir. You can even see him offering a bite and getting scolded by Deng Xianling.

(very good, very funny, a very special one fitting for the 50th clip.)

That's all for this list.

Last time I added a bonus clip of Wu Yihan in Love Musical. This time you can have these two bonus clips of Shu Rongbo absolutely slaying it in Hey!Arizona Musical. IDK what it's about but the set and costumes are so damn cool.

#i know i said pt3 in march #but uhh this was longer than i was expecting #happy 50 clips #also yess i added the bonus clips #in an attempt to poison you to watch more musicals #and also shu rongbo just look great in cowboy outfit #see you on pt 4 #that will be on march #link click musical #link click #shu rongbo #wu yihan #cai qi #cai lu #hong guo #du guangyi #wu hanglu #wang yifei #wang minhui #guo hongxu #bai zhuoming #qian anqi #teng chunpeng #deng xianling #ding xingchen #ji xiaokun #zhang jiahao #he is a gift #i love him so much for this #lc musical list

[lanternkiwi]

a collection of my favorite incorrect bllk quotes my friend and i have made, directly copy and pasted from our texts

bllk manga spoilers

context: social media au! mainly featuring pxg (rin, loki, shidou, karasu, nanase, & zantetsu)

karasu sends a rin edit karasu: rin you lookin kinda ngghhh here rin: ??? zantetsu: What is "ngghhh" in this context? nanase: um shidou: ....listen i can take two itoshis rin: WHAT THE FUCK loki: You look good, Rin! rin: Thank you

shidou sends a rin edit shidou: brother hopper till i die karasu: REAL zantetsu: brother hopper? nanase: it just means he’s doing hopscotch with the itoshi brothers! zantetsu: i see… i too would like to brother hop karasu: ZANTETSU MY BOOYYY rin: ABSOLUTELY NOT shidou: HASHFFKDHFKJ

someone posts “Loki is so bbg” and karasu sends it shidou: now that you pointed it out.. karasu: right?? hes the perfect height for it too zantetsu: What is bbg? nanase: big brother guardian!! zantetsu: oh i see.. karasu, you are a bbg and then he just hears explosive laughter from the other room

and then it becomes a regular thing for pxg members to call each other bbg they’re playing in a game against bastard like karasu: BBG PASS IT HERE shidou: NICE KICK BBG nanase: that was a nice goal, bbg zantetsu rin: i’m not calling any of you bbg karasu: don’t be such a downer bbg isagi: do they… know what bbg means …? yukki: i’ve learned to stop questioning karasu’s antics

.

context: nagi cosplayers- reo comments on one accidentally on his official acc w a “woah” and the internet explodes and pxg finds out about it

shidou: sends the nagi cosplay shidou: NAH REO CAUGHT LACKING karasu: RHATS WILDDDKKF nanase: guys leave him alone karasu: nanase, beloved, DID YOU LOOK AT IT nanase: no..? nanase, after looking at it: OH MY GOD NOOO karasu: AKSKFKS shidou: THIS IS AMAZINGGG zantetsu: why is that person dressing as nagi? nanase: it’s a hobby zantetsu: a hobby…? rin, after looking at it: oh damn that is kinda bad..

SHIDOU WETS HIS HAIR BEFORE GOING AGAINST MC AND GOING “do i look like nagi?? what does he sound like OH OH AHEM.. hey lovebug~” karasu HOWLS and reo DIES

karasu: hey nanase come here nanase: what? shidou: we need you to dress up as nagi for us nanase: uh… why? shidou: reo might give you money karasu: we need funds for a team outing shidou: take one for the team, yea? nanase: guys he’s not gonna fall for it… an hour later nanase: so he fell for it..

.

context: now pxg (shidou & karasu) is just fucking with the other teams the same way they fucked with reo LMAOO

and then when they go against bastard they target isagi and bachi karau’s the one doing it this time “YO ISAGI CHECK THIS OUT” flattens his hair “i’m gonna follow the monster inside me”

AND SHIDOU LOSES HIS MIKDDJFKF isagi’s like “FIRST OF ALL BACHIRA DOESNT SOUND LIKE THAT” SHIDOU HOWLLSSS “PROTECTIVE MUCHH??” “I LITERALLY JS SAID HE DOESNT SOUND LIKE THAT” karasu: i got a monster inside me but i actually just want isagi inside me shidou: AHHAKKDLGPVOWKKDKX isagi’s jaw DROPPPSSS

when they won against ubers they had karasu fuck with aryu while shidou moaned in oliver’s ear constantly

they come across an annoying team and loki just sighs and goes “karasu.. shidou…. do it” and they just smile cause they now they know nothings holding them back AKSKFKCKDKSKDK “got master’s permission~~” “stop calling me master!” from a distance LMFOAOSKFKSKSK nanase looks at loki in betrayal and loki sighs “listen here nanase, it may be dirty looking, but getting under your opponent’s skin is a strategy”

shidou: you’re a real annoying guy huh?! kaiser: says you antenna freak. gonna squash you like the bug you are shidou: oh yeah? that’s kinky kaiser: what- karasu, from across the field: OH HARDER DADDY kaiser: WHAT?!

kaiser: the curtains about to close on your performance boys!! karasu: OH YEAH??? you know what DIDNT CLOSE?? shidou: YOUR MOMS LEGS ASSHAT kaiser: NESS GO HOME AND GET THE GUN

loki sends shidou a pass and shidou fucking MOANS “you always do me right master” “FOCUS” kaiser stops in his tracks: WHAT THE FUCK IS WRONG WITH YOU karasu: chill dude RELAX… (he gets up close to him) loosen up a little, yea~ AND KAISER JERKS AWAY FROM HIM AND SWATS HIS EAR LIKE ISAGI DID TO HIM SKDKXKSK kaisers like “what kind of PSYCHOPATHS is ego cooking up in blue lock?!”

loki sends shidou a soft pass cuz of strategy trying to get away from noa and he says “sshhhiiit aftercare already daddy?” and noa stares at loki loki sighs “I don’t know.”

shidou walks up to noa like “you’re a BIG guy huh? bet you’re real big in the-“ loki steps in “SHIDOU GOOD GOD” “whaaattt i was gonna say soccer leagues, don’t worry master you’re the Big one” WITH A WINK

shidou is so clingy but not the affectionate type more like his chin is on loki’s shoulder as he explains their formation just to make disgusting tongue sounds rin SLAPS shidou and loki dodges downwards knowing it was coming hes like “mmmm~ i like that position” and loki can FEEL rin coming and he moves so rin can smack him

ego asks for team update and loki’s just “well shidou and karasu are literally the same person” and ego cant help but know exactly what that means and put his hand on his shoulder and goes “you are very brave”

omg imagine kaiser taunts loki midway through the game, he walks up to him where he’s sitting and goes “come on out clown, i’ll make you cry” loki just tilts his head saying “you can only do that if you make me come out on the field” shidou whines “masterrrr why don’t you talk to ME like that” and loki acc returns the energy “guard kaiser until he can’t say those words to me then i’ll consider” and shidou GRINS

.

shidou: we're connected sae sae: well i hope my internet is bad

.

context: desperately in search of a therapist

mini bllk reunion is where they’re talking abt this and bachira says “you should talk to lavinho!” everyone disagrees and makes it known shidou: “steal rin’s therapist” “rin has a therapist??” reo sighs “just anyone but prince will do” chigiri nods aggressively in agreement

and chris goes out of his way to try and be a therapist for them too “you know when i was in high school-“ “when you were in high school you got suspended for streaking” “HE TRIPLE DOG DARED ME REO”

noa sees them and goes “do not listen to anything this fool tells you”

but when it comes down to it the only good advice noa gives out is soccer related 😔 “noa… i need some girl advice” “girls? when i was in high school i never talked to girls. now that i think about it… there were a few that asked me to prom but i had practice (practice he could’ve easily skipped) so i turned them all down” “…. you know what.. nevermind..”

.

context: pxg after party

loki snuck them out somehow IDCCC ego only found out cuz of shidou and karasu’s stories

like that scene in do revenge HELEPVJN “ego how did you-" “shidou has me on his close friends story" “shidou!" “WHAATT i talk shit about him on my close friends, its only fair hes on it” “DUDE”

everyone’s getting lit cuz they’re pxg then there’s loki being rin’s therapist in the corner but then shidou comes over, instigates and they run off screaming nanase hot on their heels, “GUYS PLEASE PUBLIC!! WE’RE IN PUBLIC!!!”

karasu’s trying to pick up girls like “uh… isn’t that your team?" “who them? never seen those guys in my life." “KARASU PLEASE HELP ME" “…?" “coincidence”

loki silently wonders if he should talk to nanase too that night

nanase gonna hit the shinji pose on the way home in the backseat fr

.

context: raichi "gay? i thought you were japanese?"

ppl bewildered that reo carries nagi around cuz from the manshine city vs bastard munchen match it seems that nagi is like the strongest hoe on the field then just clings onto the mikage heir then one day bllk reuinion reo flat out drunk and nagi carries him home and everyone shocked cuz nagi is so LAZY “wait they share a house?”

raichis def the oblivious one

bachi “yeah dude you didn’t know? they’ve been together since blue lock” “WHAATTTTT” chigiri “dude…”

and now they have to sit the poor dude down and explain how half of them are dating

“me and bachira just kinda clicked and now we’re together” “it was rough for kunigami and i but hey we made it” “shidou’s gay for my brother..” “not my fault your brothers HOT” “DIE” “i’m pretty sure i saw karasu and otoya kiss once” “it was practice” “not gay if it’s with the homies” raichi 😧😧😧

.

context: karasu "id fuck you if i was a girl" tabito

shidou: sae can get it rin: what? shidou: what? karasu: if i was a girl, i would agree with you shidou

“you know rin if i was a girl i’d be all over you” “excuse me?!” “never mind” shidou chimes in “i totally see it” rin turns around “WHAT?!”

bro probably had a “man crush” on yukimiya when it was straight up just a crush “yukimiya, i gotta say you are VERY attractive.” “oh? why thank you” “like i’d fuck you” “wait what” “if i was a girl, obviously” “oh”

“yukimiya kinda… in a bro way” “bro way?” “yeah bro way” “dude…”

"its not gay if its with the homies" otoya nods “yes.. yes.” aryu somewhat agrees, but he genuinely had a crush on chigiri and isn’t in denial of it reo’s like “that’s a thing?? i thought we were all gay” and yukimiya knows exactly why he says that and just “😒”

yukimiya: Sure yeah, because thinking of fucking your friends and telling them is normal. karasu: absolutely

karasu: just hear me out this one time yukimiya: absolutely not. your argument about this during the second selection was actually ridiculous! karasu: hey man.. i cant argue with socks being on during sex okay ITS UNIVERSAL LAW yukimiya: SAID NO ONE EVER

.

context: GET THESE BOYS OFF TWITTER

nah but zantetsu def made some dumbass comment on twt and reo replied with “open up schools again” 😭😭😭😭😭

reo commenting on nagi edits and cosplays imagine him going on his usual spree never realizing that was his official account and it gets PINNED ON EVERY TIKTOK HE COMMENTS ON

reo commenting on nagi edits and cosplays imagine him going on his usual spree never realizing that was his official account and it gets PINNED ON EVERY TIKTOK HE COMMENRS ON “oh my god he’s so hot” “the way i’d lick his abs” “you look sm like him?? wow?? come over??”

chigiri: aint NO way you were caught lacking THIS BAD reo: I KNOW HOW IT LOOKS

he has to jump on twitter “GUYS ITS NOT WHAT I LOOKS LIKE” in the replies bachira: caught in 4k is insane shidou: HASJCNJJFEWFN and @’s the WHOLE PXG TEAM karasu: NAHH AGAIN bachira: AGAIN IS WILLD rin: reo just log off shidou: THIS IS HILARIOUSKDJFNJ isagi: reo you have to stop doing this

reo tweeting “he’s here…..” thinking it was his private one and getting exposed AGAIN shidou’s def the one that calls him out when he thinks he got away w it @/reomikage: i really do love nagi seishiro shidou, in replies: check @ dude reo: FUCK then shidou sends a ss to the pxg group chat SKJJSNVJKD shidou has his notifications on for reo for this exact reason

HE SEES A NAGI COSPLAY AND TAGS REO “@/reomikage stays on during sex right???😘😘”

shidou in a nagi edit: “looking for reo’s comments" “here before reo 😜” “wheres reo when you need him huh”

SIMILARLY I BET KARASU GOT CAUGHT LACKING WHEN TALKING ABOUT YUKKI karasu on a yukki edit: “damn you made him hot i mean he was hot before but damn" “HES SO BAAADDD” “friend? bitch i said YOU BAD” and shidou sends it to the gc shidou: karasu ayo???? karasu: what i said what i said

karasus like “dawg have you SEEN yukimiya” and shidou’s like “mm you right”

they’re all over yukki in the pxg vs bm game when kaiser isn’t acting up

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that's all me and my friend are ridiculous LMFOASKFNNAF THERES PROBABLY A LOT MORE i'll another post if we come up with more

#blue lock #rin itoshi #isagi yoichi #reo mikage #nagi seishiro #karasu tabito #yukimiya kenyu #julien loki #noa noel #chris prince #lavinho #nijiro nanase #tsurugi zantetsu #shidou ryusei #michael kaiser #alexis ness #blue lock manga